Some singers, songwriters, and musicians, even the most talented ones, spend years playing music without ever truly being noticed. Some will even devote their whole lives to their craft without making their dream, a career in music, come true. A successful career in music or entertainment not only requires talent, hard work, and dedication but a healthy dose of luck.
Of course, you have to be talented to make it big in an industry that’s so fast-paced and always changing. But, sometimes, being in the right place at the right time is all a matter of luck and things can change for you in seconds. It may have been luck that stepped in for Natasha Cook Jenkins of Glasgow, Scotland.
She dreamed of becoming a singer but had doubts about whether or not her dream would ever be realized. But, that didn’t stop her from relentlessly pursuing the future she only hoped for. This girl as what it takes and she knows that – it’s the only reason she never gave up, and boy are we glad she didn’t!
On her quest for fame, she would unpack her instruments and equipment in the middle of Glasgow, playing her music and singing for anyone who would listen. In fact, even if no one was there, she would simply keep playing.
On a day that started just like any other, Natasha began playing the song “Streets of London” by Ralph McTell. She noticed that a gentleman had stopped to listen to her play. He stayed through the entire song and when she was finished, he approached the young street performer. The man had something surprising to share.
“…when I was finished he came over and shook my hand and said I produced that song in 1971 and that’s the best rendition I’ve heard of it. I was like wow,” said Natasha.
That man was Tony Visconti, the 73-year-old music producer who had worked with David Bowie, T-Rex, The Boomtown Rats, and Iggy Pop. Tony was so impressed that he helped Natasha secure a record deal and begin her first tour.
Natasha’s story of discovery will also be featured in a documentary called “Unsigned Heroes” which shares many stories of Street Performers in the UK.
Have you heard more of Natasha’s performances? Which one is your favorite? We’d love to read about these in the comments below!
Watch Natasha’s stunning performance of Elvis’ “Can’t Help Falling in Love” in the video below.
