Johnny Mathis performing in a shark skin suit
Attending a Johnny Mathis concert is more than just an evening of beautiful music; it’s a masterclass in career longevity and enduring relevance. Recently, I had the privilege of witnessing this icon perform with the San Francisco Symphony, a gift that transformed into a profound learning experience. Johnny Mathis, a name synonymous with timeless ballads and romantic crooning, boasts a career that spans decades. For those unfamiliar, a quick glance at his Wikipedia page reveals a truly legendary journey. The term “icon” barely scratches the surface.
When Mathis graced the stage, his relaxed demeanor spoke volumes – a seasoned performer at ease in his element. The audience erupted in applause, a standing ovation even before the first note. The concert unfolded with medleys and a somewhat brief performance, and Mathis’ signature style of singing slightly turned away from the audience was evident. Yet, none of this mattered. My mind was fixated on one question: How does a 77-year-old (at the time of the original article) maintain such a vibrant and successful career? The answer, I realized, lies in a collection of invaluable lessons gleaned from his remarkable journey.
6 Career-Defining Lessons from Johnny Mathis
1. The Indispensable Value of Excellence
The sheer volume of applause throughout the concert was astounding. Even in his late seventies, Johnny Mathis captivated the audience, leaving them thoroughly satisfied. This isn’t happenstance; it’s the result of unwavering dedication to his craft. He mentioned the afternoon rehearsal with the Symphony, highlighting his continuous commitment to refinement even after six decades in the industry. Steve Martin’s adage, “Be undeniably good,” resonates perfectly here. Mediocrity fades with age, but virtuosity only deepens its allure. Cultivate your skills relentlessly, and you’ll build an audience that appreciates your enduring mastery.
2. Don’t Delay Your Prime: Start Building Your Legacy Now
Johnny Mathis’ current audience is a testament to the hits he crafted starting in 1957. Time is a crucial factor in career building. His sustained fame, evidenced by a strong Facebook presence, underscores this point. I often encounter individuals who postpone their ambitions, like ministers who aspire to teach only at the end of their careers. The question is, what are you doing now? Wisdom doesn’t automatically accrue with age, nor does seniority alone qualify you as a leader. Be productive and impactful in the present, and influence will naturally follow.
3. Strategic Evolution: Reframe and Adapt Your Approach
The backing of a world-class orchestra undeniably enhanced Mathis’ performance. While age may bring about vocal changes, Mathis astutely adapted. Instead of retreating from the stage, he transitioned from recording albums to performing live with symphonies and other exceptional musicians. The orchestral arrangement beautifully masked any vocal limitations, much like a stunning frame enhances a picture. The audience embraced this evolution with unwavering enthusiasm. Similarly, in our careers, we must anticipate the need to reframe our roles and leverage our strengths in evolving contexts. What is your next strategic move to ensure continued relevance?
4. The Power of Honest Feedback: Embrace Constructive Criticism
Mathis’ attire – a shiny shark skin suit with baggy pants and no tie – was a surprising fashion choice, especially for a San Francisco setting known for its understated style. Perhaps it was a lucky charm, but it also suggested a potential blind spot in his image management. It made me wonder if anyone in his inner circle provides candid feedback on such matters. This reminded me of a recent experience where a younger colleague gently teased me for using a GPS device, comparing it to outdated technology. Ouch, but point taken. I switched to Google Maps on my phone. Surround yourself with people who offer honest perspectives, even if they sting a little. Staying attuned to contemporary trends and perceptions is vital for sustained success.
5. Master the Art of Specialization: Focus and Delegate
Initially, the jazz quartet positioned behind Mathis and the orchestra seemed almost invisible. However, as the performance progressed, their virtuosity shone brightly. The music director’s ability to play piano and keyboard simultaneously was remarkable. The guitarist, a 43-year veteran, manages all of Mathis’ bookings. Mathis excels as a singer because he doesn’t need to be a jack-of-all-trades. Think of virtuosos like Eric Clapton, Tony Bennett, or Sherlock Holmes – all specialists in their domains. Many of us start as generalists, but as we mature in our careers, the opportunity arises to specialize in areas that maximize our market value. This necessitates delegating and creating space for others to excel in their specialties. No one achieves lasting success in isolation.
6. Sustainable Performance: Know Your Limits and Conserve Your Energy
Johnny Mathis didn’t attempt an exhaustive three-hour performance. Like Tony Bennett, his concerts are just over an hour, interspersed with instrumental pieces. While this might have been considered short in the past, it’s perfectly acceptable, even appreciated, now. Mathis smartly limits his performances to ensure his continued ability to perform, respecting the physical constraints of age. Similarly, the unsustainable 80-hour workweeks, which were never ideal, become less viable and less rewarding as leaders age. Longevity requires self-care. Pacing yourself ensures that your gifts can benefit others for years to come.
Looking ahead, with 17 years separating me from Johnny Mathis’ current age, his enduring vocal mastery is an inspiring testament to the potential for sustained impact in later career stages, even in a culture that often glorifies youth. We can’t recapture youth, but we can always strive to become better, more experienced versions of ourselves.
