Johnny Mathis performing on stage with the San Francisco Symphony, illustrating his long-lasting career and the valuable lessons of adaptability and continuous excellence.
Attending a Johnny Mathis concert with the San Francisco Symphony was more than just an evening of music; it was a masterclass in enduring relevance and timeless appeal. Like many in the packed auditorium, we were there to witness a legend. For those unfamiliar, Johnny Mathis isn’t just a singer; he’s a musical icon whose career, as detailed on Wikipedia, spans decades. His very presence on stage commanded respect and admiration, greeted by a standing ovation even before a single note was sung. Observing this 77-year-old maestro in action sparked a compelling question: What Lesson Can You Learn From Johnny Mathis about longevity, adaptability, and continued excellence in any field? Beyond the melodies and masterful performance, several key insights emerged.
1. Be Undeniably Good at Your Craft
The sheer volume of applause throughout the concert was a testament to Mathis’s enduring talent. Even at 77, he delivers a performance that leaves audiences thrilled. This isn’t accidental; his dedication to his craft is evident. The article mentions his full rehearsal with the Symphony that very afternoon. In his sixth decade, Mathis still hones his skills, taking nothing for granted. As Steve Martin famously said about success in show business, “Be undeniably good.” In any profession, consistent effort to refine your skills is paramount. Excellence ages gracefully. If you are exceptional as you get older, you’re a virtuoso; if you’re merely average, you’re just seen as old. Invest in developing your expertise now to cultivate a lasting impact and audience, regardless of your field.
2. Don’t Postpone Your Prime
Johnny Mathis enjoys a devoted audience today because he achieved stardom early in his career, scoring hits starting in 1957. Market relevance is often built over time. Interestingly, he might even be more recognized now than ever, evidenced by a strong Facebook presence. This underscores a crucial lesson: impact should be made throughout your journey, not just at the end. It’s common to hear professionals in various fields, not just ministry as the original article mentions, talk about wanting to “give back” or “teach” later in their careers. While noble, this raises the question: what are you doing now? Wisdom doesn’t automatically come with age, nor does seniority alone qualify someone as a leader or mentor. Strive for fruitfulness and influence in your present endeavors, and recognition will naturally follow. Don’t wait to make your mark; build your legacy consistently over time.
3. Reframe and Adapt Your Approach
The San Francisco Symphony’s world-class backing undeniably enhanced Mathis’s performance at 77. While some vocal changes are inevitable with age, instead of retiring, Mathis adapted. He shifted from studio albums to live performances, collaborating with exceptional musicians. The symphony’s grandeur beautifully complements, and perhaps even subtly masks, any vocal limitations that might come with age. It’s like a masterpiece in a stunning frame; the combination elevates the entire experience, making the audience appreciative and forgiving of minor imperfections. This illustrates the power of reframing. Leaders and professionals can proactively prepare for later career stages by seeking environments that amplify their strengths and compensate for any evolving limitations. Few careers remain static. Anticipate your “next act” and strategically position yourself for continued success through adaptation and smart collaborations.
4. Embrace Honest Feedback
The author’s observation about Mathis’s attire – a shiny sharkskin suit – highlights the importance of honest feedback. In a fashion-conscious city like San Francisco, his clothing choice seemed out of place. While it could be a personal preference or superstition (“lucky suit”), it also suggests a lack of candid feedback in his inner circle. The author contrasts this with a personal anecdote about receiving direct, albeit blunt, advice about outdated GPS usage from a younger mentor. This underscores the need to be open to constructive criticism, even if it’s uncomfortable. Surrounding yourself with people who will offer honest perspectives, even on seemingly minor details, is crucial for staying relevant and avoiding unintentional image deficits. Be receptive to truth, even when it’s delivered bluntly; it’s essential for continuous improvement and staying grounded.
5. Specialize and Empower Others
Initially, the jazz quartet accompanying Mathis and the orchestra was almost unnoticed. However, as the concert progressed, their individual brilliance shone through, including a multi-talented music director. The guitarist, having been with Mathis for 43 years and managing bookings, exemplifies specialization. Mathis excels at singing because he’s surrounded himself with experts in other areas. Virtuosos, whether Eric Clapton, Tony Bennett, or even Sherlock Holmes as the article playfully suggests, are specialists. Many start as generalists, but experience provides the opportunity to focus on specific areas of expertise, enhancing market value. This also means creating space for others to shine in their specialties. Success is rarely a solo act; it’s often a symphony of specialized talents working in harmony.
6. Respect Your Limits for Sustained Performance
Johnny Mathis didn’t attempt a marathon three-hour performance. Similar to Tony Bennett, his concerts are just over an hour, incorporating instrumental interludes. What might have been considered short in his younger days is now a wise strategy for longevity. By respecting his physical limits, Mathis ensures he can continue performing for years to come. This is a critical lesson for leaders and professionals in any field. The unsustainable 80-hour workweeks, never ideal to begin with, become even less viable and rewarding with age. Prioritizing self-care and setting healthy boundaries is not a sign of weakness but a strategic move for long-term contribution. Sustained performance requires respecting your limitations, ensuring your gifts can continue to benefit others for as long as possible.
Even decades away from Mathis’s current age, witnessing his enduring mastery offers profound inspiration. It reinforces the potential for continued impact and relevance in later life, even in a culture that often glorifies youth. We cannot reverse time, but we can always strive to become better versions of ourselves as we age, drawing inspiration from legends like Johnny Mathis.
