Crystal Bowersox, CES, and Unexpected Joys

I set off to CES this year without a single appointment to meet with any companies. I had some networking events on my calendar, but that was about it. My lack of scheduling was in part due to the size of CES – last year I found myself running back and forth between ends of the Las Vegas Convention Center (which is massive enough that they provide a shuttle from one end to the other) – and in part due to my natural inclination to be a free spirit. Oh, and then there was the fact that CES comes first thing during the new year and invitations streamed out while we were planning for Christmas, visiting Disney World, celebrating Christmas and battling the stomach flu. Basically, I was disorganized, even for me.

During my days, I navigated through the massive displays, occasionally asking for an impromptu media briefing. But one day, in particular, I had decided to try to catch the Polaroid press conference where Lady Gaga would appear to announce some new products in their line. I waited in a mob for her to appear. Suddenly, as we were expecting her to take the stage, a countdown appeared with 30 minutes left. Annoyed, I turned to Twitter where Sony had just tweeted that Crystal Bowersox (of American Idol fame) would be performing on their stage in a half an hour. The Sony booth was right across the aisle from the Polaroid booth (while still managing to feel miles away from one another), so I trooped over, snagged a front row seat and settled in for the show.

Crystal was phenomenal. She’s got a gorgeous voice, a quiet stage presence (which was well suited to the relatively small venue) and a soothing energy. I was already a fan, but now I’m a really big fan! Sadly, the environment combined with my camera microphone don’t make for the best sound ever, but it’s pretty good quality for my camera (loving my new camera). This is “Mine All Mine” from her album, Farmer’s Daughter.

She also performed a song with her husband, Brian Walker. He wrote it for her and not only is a beautiful song, but he’s got a great voice as well. This is “Mason.”

My experience at CES was a series of unexpected joys like this one. While I don’t necessarily recommend heading out without a plan in your head (especially at CES), there’s something to be said for being open to the opportunities that arise. Not only did I get to enjoy Crystal’s performance, but I found out that Danny Gokey was performing a few days later. And, lest it sound like my trip was all about having fun, I learned about some other cool companies and products just by wandering among the booths this year.