LEMMY TELL YOU
Lemmy tell you ‘bout what’s goin’ on with moi.
EIGHT YEARS AGO, CSN(Y) COVER
Wow, I probably haven’t heard this since recording it. It makes me miss singing 3 part harmony, especially with these two women. Meredith Holliday sent me this video of the two of us singing with Anna Burgess up at Seven Springs one late night. Eight years ago the three of us played a whole lot of Crosby, Stills, & Nash (and sometimes Young). Here’s the three of us recorded by Adam Watt of Small Universe, I just love our blend!
BARBIE UPCYCLED PILLOW SETTLING
IN AT ITS NEW HOME
IN AT ITS NEW HOME
I was so excited to see these photos. I gave this pillow (read all about it here) to a friend who collects vintage Barbie dolls and I couldn’t think of a better spot to display it!
MORE HOSPITALS NEED MUSIC
It was a very nice Wednesday evening playing for patients. Everyone requested so many great songs (from Fleetwood Mac to Doris Day)! It was a crowd from 20-80+ age range, so I was sure to choose songs in all eras.
If you are looking for live music for your loved one who may be a patient you can either reach out to contact me here or email me at noteastmusic.com
I play in all hospital settings: bedside hospice patients, new parents-to-be welcoming their newborns, chair-side during chemo treatments, and even gatherings for the hardworking faculty who are thanklessly helping so many people all day.
I really wish live music (and art) was a priority on the non-medicine side of things at hospitals, it makes such a difference with patients to have these experiences during their hospitalization. Perhaps if higher ups in these hospitals came to these events and spoke with patients afterwards they may understand the value and benefit of entertainment.
If you are looking for live music for your loved one who may be a patient you can either reach out to contact me here or email me at noteastmusic.com
I play in all hospital settings: bedside hospice patients, new parents-to-be welcoming their newborns, chair-side during chemo treatments, and even gatherings for the hardworking faculty who are thanklessly helping so many people all day.
I really wish live music (and art) was a priority on the non-medicine side of things at hospitals, it makes such a difference with patients to have these experiences during their hospitalization. Perhaps if higher ups in these hospitals came to these events and spoke with patients afterwards they may understand the value and benefit of entertainment.
RANDOM MONDAY NIGHT GIG WITH FIREWORKS
I usually don’t play too many Monday night parties, but this one was for an 80th birthday with multiple surprises through the evening- fireworks closed out the night. Sometimes you never know what’s going to happen on a Monday, right?
TIPPING MUSICIANS-
NO AMOUNT IS WRONG, RIGHT?
NO AMOUNT IS WRONG, RIGHT?
Tipping is a hot subject that l have a lot of thoughts on. For now, I’m only referencing tips to musicians on paid gigs. Tipping for any other services are different conversations that are not relevant to this one. There's plenty of room for more chats about tipping culture elsewhere.
Most venues allow musicians to leave out a tip jar, giving patrons the option to leave a little something. Quick side note that I love sharing: Playing lots of family friendly spots, I see a lot of parents showing their kids how to tip, which is really cute. Kiddos seem to run back-and-forth from my jar, and not just to bring me all of their change. Kids also tip me in stickers, flowers, candy, and even artwork. Some time ask me about a few little ones dipping into my tip jar while parents looking mortified, it's hysterical!
So, anyway, back to my point…
Recently, two folks tipped me separately after I had already packed up my tip jar. The guy handed me a dollar, saying how much he enjoyed me singing. The gal sitting next to him proudly handed me an origami heart she made out of a dollar and we all chatted a bit. I was so touched that they thought of me after the music was over.
Just as the couple was leaving, a customer watching the entire interaction loudly commented (to anybody who would listen), "Really? Who tips only a dollar, why even bother? I mean, seriously!!" This really rubbed me the wrong way.
When it comes to getting tipped as a musician at a paid gig, I never expect it. It's not required for the audience to tip, but it is always appreciated, no matter the amount. It also doesn’t have to be money! One dude literally gave me the shirt off of his back because I told him I loved his Mick Jagger image and played him a Rolling Stones song.*
Showing that you appreciate what I do by leaving a tip means a lot to me. If you think someone isn't tipping enough, I'm more than happy taking a larger tip from you- here's my virtual tip jar! Of course, I'm only half kidding, but keep in mind there's no wrong amount to tip a musician, right?
*The dude who gave me his shirt was wearing anther one underneath, FYI. Also, I ended up turning that shirt into a pillow, which you can find here.
Most venues allow musicians to leave out a tip jar, giving patrons the option to leave a little something. Quick side note that I love sharing: Playing lots of family friendly spots, I see a lot of parents showing their kids how to tip, which is really cute. Kiddos seem to run back-and-forth from my jar, and not just to bring me all of their change. Kids also tip me in stickers, flowers, candy, and even artwork. Some time ask me about a few little ones dipping into my tip jar while parents looking mortified, it's hysterical!
So, anyway, back to my point…
Recently, two folks tipped me separately after I had already packed up my tip jar. The guy handed me a dollar, saying how much he enjoyed me singing. The gal sitting next to him proudly handed me an origami heart she made out of a dollar and we all chatted a bit. I was so touched that they thought of me after the music was over.
Just as the couple was leaving, a customer watching the entire interaction loudly commented (to anybody who would listen), "Really? Who tips only a dollar, why even bother? I mean, seriously!!" This really rubbed me the wrong way.
When it comes to getting tipped as a musician at a paid gig, I never expect it. It's not required for the audience to tip, but it is always appreciated, no matter the amount. It also doesn’t have to be money! One dude literally gave me the shirt off of his back because I told him I loved his Mick Jagger image and played him a Rolling Stones song.*
Showing that you appreciate what I do by leaving a tip means a lot to me. If you think someone isn't tipping enough, I'm more than happy taking a larger tip from you- here's my virtual tip jar! Of course, I'm only half kidding, but keep in mind there's no wrong amount to tip a musician, right?
*The dude who gave me his shirt was wearing anther one underneath, FYI. Also, I ended up turning that shirt into a pillow, which you can find here.
ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC:
MY FAVORITE WEDNESDAYS
MY FAVORITE WEDNESDAYS
I can’t believe that a year ago Dormont’s Arsenal Cider Tap House graciously gave me the opportunity to start hosting an acoustic open mic night- meeting every 3rd Wednesday of the month, musicians and music lovers have been gathering to drink cider and enjoy an evening of acoustic music from so many local talented people.
Each month features an artist who plays an extended set and Joe Hagerty crushed it. I threw some harmonies on couple, my favorite thing to do.
We also had a few more ladies this time, which is always super exciting! This was also the first night where 2 different acts sang a Buckingham Nicks tune (my current obsession, btw. I canNOT stop listening to the re-release, but that is for another time), which is rare. Someone played Elliot Smith and Sturgill Simpson, and that was super awesome.
I could keep going on about the evening, but if you’re reading this I recommend you come to the next Acoustic Open Mic Nite at Dormont’s Arsenal Cider Tap House. Plus, Kris is behind the bar and everyone loves her: she was 2024’s Best Bartender pick for Pgh City Paper’s Best of Pgh (but she’d never tell you that!).
Each month features an artist who plays an extended set and Joe Hagerty crushed it. I threw some harmonies on couple, my favorite thing to do.
We also had a few more ladies this time, which is always super exciting! This was also the first night where 2 different acts sang a Buckingham Nicks tune (my current obsession, btw. I canNOT stop listening to the re-release, but that is for another time), which is rare. Someone played Elliot Smith and Sturgill Simpson, and that was super awesome.
I could keep going on about the evening, but if you’re reading this I recommend you come to the next Acoustic Open Mic Nite at Dormont’s Arsenal Cider Tap House. Plus, Kris is behind the bar and everyone loves her: she was 2024’s Best Bartender pick for Pgh City Paper’s Best of Pgh (but she’d never tell you that!).
(STILL IN A) FORT LIGONIER DAZE
Good gravy, it’s been several days since Fort Ligonier Days ended, and I’m just now starting to feel back to normal.
After playing at G’s on Liberty in Bloomfield (side note: this place doesn’t get enough love in my circles, and it really deserves a chance! Incredible food, super sweet staff, and a nice wine selection is what you’ll find any time I’m playing there!), I began my Fort Daze duties-
FYI, my favorite store in Ligonier, Celtic Culture is closing and while I’m sad about it, I’m super excited for my dear friend Andrew to retire! He’s open til at least December.
Saturday night I took a Fort Daze break to play at Wye Beer in Trafford. What a cute brewpub- a nice outdoor area with a cool covered and lit stage on wheels that sits above the view of a bike trail. The inside has pinball machines, so I’m sold. I also some several folks I hadn’t seen in ages, so the entire night was pretty fab!
Singing at 10am on a Sunday morning is never anything I want to do… unless it’s getting to play with Joe Golden. And that’s been the Fort Daze Sunday tradition for a good while in front of Mack Darr on West Main Street. It didn’t rain and no one fainted, two things I worry about every year because both have happened a LOT, so it was a successful gig and FD weekend!!
Since then I’ve taken any moment to curl up with my sweet pea for some cat naps, as pictured above. This time of year is hard on all of us with the time change and temperature drop. I’m grateful to stop and recharge when I can and I hope you can too.
After playing at G’s on Liberty in Bloomfield (side note: this place doesn’t get enough love in my circles, and it really deserves a chance! Incredible food, super sweet staff, and a nice wine selection is what you’ll find any time I’m playing there!), I began my Fort Daze duties-
FYI, my favorite store in Ligonier, Celtic Culture is closing and while I’m sad about it, I’m super excited for my dear friend Andrew to retire! He’s open til at least December.
Saturday night I took a Fort Daze break to play at Wye Beer in Trafford. What a cute brewpub- a nice outdoor area with a cool covered and lit stage on wheels that sits above the view of a bike trail. The inside has pinball machines, so I’m sold. I also some several folks I hadn’t seen in ages, so the entire night was pretty fab!
Singing at 10am on a Sunday morning is never anything I want to do… unless it’s getting to play with Joe Golden. And that’s been the Fort Daze Sunday tradition for a good while in front of Mack Darr on West Main Street. It didn’t rain and no one fainted, two things I worry about every year because both have happened a LOT, so it was a successful gig and FD weekend!!
Since then I’ve taken any moment to curl up with my sweet pea for some cat naps, as pictured above. This time of year is hard on all of us with the time change and temperature drop. I’m grateful to stop and recharge when I can and I hope you can too.
BEATRIO AT MCG
Bela Fleck brought his BEATrio to the Manchester Craftman’s Guild on October 4th and it was, of course, a stellar show. MCG is a beautiful venue with 350 super comfy seats. This photo was taken after their encore (no phone show), right before they left the stage.
With this being my third Bela Fleck show, I pretty much knew what to expect- incredible musicians with instruments one wouldn’t pair a banjo with (I could drone on and on about it, but at another time), and this one did not disappoint. Full drum set and electric harp with a banjo is definitely a winning combination.
The set they played was their album they released in May ‘25, with some surprise open solos from all three players. The biggest surprise/thrill of the night for me was Fleck’s soloing highlights of his Rhapsody in Bluegrass, an unbelievable album that didn’t really tour, but just the little bit that he played was certainly satisfying to me!
I have to mention how much I enjoyed that venue in the North Side. Tickets at MGC are way more affordable than a lot of big shows that come to Pittsburgh (my front row ticket cost less than my last oil change), and they get some of the best acts around the globe right in Manchester. Also, the entire building is definitely worth showing up early and checking out the artwork.
With this being my third Bela Fleck show, I pretty much knew what to expect- incredible musicians with instruments one wouldn’t pair a banjo with (I could drone on and on about it, but at another time), and this one did not disappoint. Full drum set and electric harp with a banjo is definitely a winning combination.
The set they played was their album they released in May ‘25, with some surprise open solos from all three players. The biggest surprise/thrill of the night for me was Fleck’s soloing highlights of his Rhapsody in Bluegrass, an unbelievable album that didn’t really tour, but just the little bit that he played was certainly satisfying to me!
I have to mention how much I enjoyed that venue in the North Side. Tickets at MGC are way more affordable than a lot of big shows that come to Pittsburgh (my front row ticket cost less than my last oil change), and they get some of the best acts around the globe right in Manchester. Also, the entire building is definitely worth showing up early and checking out the artwork.
TRANSITIONING INTO FALL
AND A SOFTER MINDSET
AND A SOFTER MINDSET
Things are crazy all over- it’s not just one thing or even multiple things. It’s EVERYTHING going bananas all of the time and it’s not stopping or slowing down anytime soon. Especially with a time change creeping on the horizon.
Since mid-September, I’ve had lotsa stuff going on and it’s been great (minus the being sick part, but in an on-going pandemic, this is currently our reality no matter how many precautions one can takes)! Between a ton of private events, some writing/recording that may not go anywhere but were mentally helpful, and my latest obsession of making pillows out of old band shirts, I’m rolling into fall fairly well at my own speed.
All of this could change tomorrow and I could have a completely different attitude, but these last 30-some days have been meaningful and impactful. I hope you find ways to keep you going!
Since mid-September, I’ve had lotsa stuff going on and it’s been great (minus the being sick part, but in an on-going pandemic, this is currently our reality no matter how many precautions one can takes)! Between a ton of private events, some writing/recording that may not go anywhere but were mentally helpful, and my latest obsession of making pillows out of old band shirts, I’m rolling into fall fairly well at my own speed.
All of this could change tomorrow and I could have a completely different attitude, but these last 30-some days have been meaningful and impactful. I hope you find ways to keep you going!
WEDNESDAY OPEN MIC
Wow, just wow. Hosting Acoustic Open Mic is so much fun. Every 3rd Wednesday of the month we gather at Dormont’s Arsenal Cider Tap House for a night of music, cider, and community. It’s been a blast meeting so many musicians and hearing some great music. Plus, a shoutout to the folks who come to listen, hang, and support us and Arsenal.
Special thanks to Tony D for playing an extended set, he was September’s featured artist and crushed it. See you on October 15th for the next one and stay tuned to find out wh our next featured artist will be!
Special thanks to Tony D for playing an extended set, he was September’s featured artist and crushed it. See you on October 15th for the next one and stay tuned to find out wh our next featured artist will be!
WEDNESDAY IN THE PARK WITH KATIE
White Oak certainly has a lovely park, I discovered, and singing in one is always a fun time. Thanks to Katie Simone for inviting me along! We played in the “wedding garden” to a great crowd of all ages. Hope to be back in that spot again, I had a great time!
HANGIN’ WITH HENRY
In-between hummin’ ‘n strummin’ this past weekend, I got to hang out with this adorable gingery kitty named Henry. He’s such a sweetheart and I can’t wait to see him again!
WHAT WERE YOU LISTENING TO IN AUGUST?
If it’s one thing I do love, it’s seeing stats of what I’m listening to. August was full of women singers and Bela Fleck. We’ll see what happens in September, though. If you have any suggestions definitely send some music my way!
FULL HOLIDAY WEEKEND OF LABOR
I’d lost all concept of time back in 2020, and I’m still in shock with time going by so quickly (yet, this year has also felt like 5 years so who knows?). Now that Labor Day weekend has ended, I’m shifting into September mode!
What a great idea end of August, though- I played a senior birthday party in the park, filled in for a cancellation at The Lot at Edgewater. Joe Golden & I played a private club poolside, and I got to play an awesome event thanks to my friend and fellow singer, Venus Hall (pictured with me above). What a voice she has and what a great community event that took place.
I’m looking forward to a new week and a new month. Be sure to check my schedule and find out where I’m hummin’ & strummin’ next!
What a great idea end of August, though- I played a senior birthday party in the park, filled in for a cancellation at The Lot at Edgewater. Joe Golden & I played a private club poolside, and I got to play an awesome event thanks to my friend and fellow singer, Venus Hall (pictured with me above). What a voice she has and what a great community event that took place.
I’m looking forward to a new week and a new month. Be sure to check my schedule and find out where I’m hummin’ & strummin’ next!
ALWAYS STOP FOR THE BORO SIGHTING
While I can’t remember much of last week as I bounced from gig to gig (six shows in four days, WOW!), I do remember catching sight of this adorable Edinboro bag. The town & university were both a huge part of my life and I definitely think about my boro days and fam a LOT. That tiny college town in Erie County helped shape me into the person I am today; it was full of opportunity, diversity, and winter weather that I’ve never experienced anywhere else. No, I didn’t buy the bag- I was dropping off my own donations that and figured a photo was enough.
ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC NITE GOING STRONG
I’m loving Acoustic Open Mic Nites in Dormont- it’s been great to be hosting each month at Arsenal Cider House. You never know who’s going to show up and what you’ll get to hear, especially when people collaborate on the spot. Special thanks to Augustine for being August’s featured artist (check out his new release)- stay tuned for another Acoustic* Open Mic on September 17 with another featured artist.
*For clarity’s sake the “acoustic” part of the title refers to instruments- we still use a sound system. If you have an instrument that plugs in, bring it (and if it’s doesn’t plug in, we’ll mic it up)! Electric instruments (guitar, bass, keys, etc) are still welcome, but you’ll be plugging into the board- leave your amps/effects behind for this one.
*For clarity’s sake the “acoustic” part of the title refers to instruments- we still use a sound system. If you have an instrument that plugs in, bring it (and if it’s doesn’t plug in, we’ll mic it up)! Electric instruments (guitar, bass, keys, etc) are still welcome, but you’ll be plugging into the board- leave your amps/effects behind for this one.
REGULATING EMOTIONS, REQUESTS, & REST
I’ll be honest- it was extremely tough getting through this last week of singin’. Saying g’bye to one of my best friends of almost 30 years has been harder than I’d ever imagined, especially someone I knew so well through music.
After our collective farewell to Brian Nac, my “Boro” fam & I had to quickly snap back into reality. I needed to be in “work music” mode so that I could step in for a cancellation in Cranberry, play my awesome Fat Head’s Friday (where alllll of the 90s requests were made as you can see in the photo above), get through another Saturday double, only with the shortest amount of time but made it safely!) and waited to crash out after my first time at Carmella’s (super cute place, BTW) on Sunday.
Since late Sunday night I have been on mandatory vocal rest and will be treading very lightly this upcoming week. As some of you know, I’ve gone through vocal therapy in the past and really have to watch my vocal budget in these busy months. I’ve pushed hard the past few weeks through some extremely emotional times, and must remember that everyone needs REST. I hope you can find the time to do the same too.🖤
After our collective farewell to Brian Nac, my “Boro” fam & I had to quickly snap back into reality. I needed to be in “work music” mode so that I could step in for a cancellation in Cranberry, play my awesome Fat Head’s Friday (where alllll of the 90s requests were made as you can see in the photo above), get through another Saturday double, only with the shortest amount of time but made it safely!) and waited to crash out after my first time at Carmella’s (super cute place, BTW) on Sunday.
Since late Sunday night I have been on mandatory vocal rest and will be treading very lightly this upcoming week. As some of you know, I’ve gone through vocal therapy in the past and really have to watch my vocal budget in these busy months. I’ve pushed hard the past few weeks through some extremely emotional times, and must remember that everyone needs REST. I hope you can find the time to do the same too.🖤
SAYING G’BYE SUCKS
What the hell do I say about losing a dear friend I’ve known since ‘98? My college musicals, post-college shenanigans & concerts, and middle age slow down of record buying/concert sittin’ & complainin’ years have always included Brian Nac. Saying farewell to him is insanely tough- I’m never going to run into him at a concert, get a book recommendation, open a birthday text, or be gifted another “Nac Mix” ever again. That’s heartbreaking.
Nac and I first met in college, we were in several shows together in the late ‘90s. Thanks to him I never would have had an interest in college radio & concert production. After college we were involved in more stage productions together, and middle age has been a lot running into each other while randomly seeing Pittsburgh famous celebrities at concerts.
The two of us have a long history together that I look back on fondly. I’m so grateful for the friendship I had with Nac, things really won’t be the same without him. 💔
Nac and I first met in college, we were in several shows together in the late ‘90s. Thanks to him I never would have had an interest in college radio & concert production. After college we were involved in more stage productions together, and middle age has been a lot running into each other while randomly seeing Pittsburgh famous celebrities at concerts.
The two of us have a long history together that I look back on fondly. I’m so grateful for the friendship I had with Nac, things really won’t be the same without him. 💔
TIME FLIES BY FAST
We know time is the one constant thing, and the timing last week was tough. But in good news, after 2 1/2 years my BFF Gary and I were finally able to have a visit!
I’ve known Gary since 1997, it’s amazing how much history we have together, so many laughs! Having met in college, we probably should have been writing down all of our adventures.
Gary and I have had a great time making music together as well. Over the years we’ve performed in musicals, recitals, workshops, at weddings, church services, choral settings, and have future plans to record. He’s also been my accompanist and is a phenomenal pipe organist. He also teaches piano and organ lessons.
i can’t wait for our next visit!
I’ve known Gary since 1997, it’s amazing how much history we have together, so many laughs! Having met in college, we probably should have been writing down all of our adventures.
Gary and I have had a great time making music together as well. Over the years we’ve performed in musicals, recitals, workshops, at weddings, church services, choral settings, and have future plans to record. He’s also been my accompanist and is a phenomenal pipe organist. He also teaches piano and organ lessons.
i can’t wait for our next visit!
FINALLY, SUMMER WEATHER!
It was great spending my entire weekend performing outside without having to worry about heatstroke or scary rainy conditions! If only every day could be that nice all of the time.
From Thursday to Sunday it was a busy weekend! Not only did I play several familiar spots, but I also played a few private events as well. Everyone was in great spirits and I am hoping the trend (and weather) continues into the rest of the month.
From Thursday to Sunday it was a busy weekend! Not only did I play several familiar spots, but I also played a few private events as well. Everyone was in great spirits and I am hoping the trend (and weather) continues into the rest of the month.
NORMALIZE HOSPICE GIGS
“There’s not enough music in healthcare,” may be something not everyone may agree with or even think about. In the US there are so many issues in the field of healthcare, experiencing live music or creating a small art project doesn’t sound like it would do much. But really, it means more than you know.
As the fight for fine arts continues, I’m happy to know that foundations like The Sonny Pugar Memorial has programs like “Music Smiles” who funds music for patients to have opportunities to hear live music.
This last Music Smiles gig I played was a hospice gig, and this patient was a huge music lover. We talked about our mutual love for Fleetwood Mac and I played all of their favorite songs bedside. I left their room knowing I gave comfort someone who needed it most.
As the fight for fine arts continues, I’m happy to know that foundations like The Sonny Pugar Memorial has programs like “Music Smiles” who funds music for patients to have opportunities to hear live music.
This last Music Smiles gig I played was a hospice gig, and this patient was a huge music lover. We talked about our mutual love for Fleetwood Mac and I played all of their favorite songs bedside. I left their room knowing I gave comfort someone who needed it most.
ANOTHER GREAT OPEN MIC NITE
What’s the one thing I forgot to do for July’s acoustic open mic night at Arsenal Cider House? I forgot to take photos of everyone, I was just having way too much fun! Thankfully someone snapped this one of me in-between my favorite drummer in the world, Mr Leu who was my high school music teacher, and fellow musician/ classmate, Heath!
What a terrific night in Dormont, though…
This month’s featured artist, Joe Paul, showed off his multi-instrumental talents with guitar, mouth harp when he wasn’t singing, and had some great looping. He’s been at almost every Open Mic Nite since we started up and always puts together a great set. Thanks, Joe!
It was a great night for music and laughs; I was mostly excited about pulling it off without my normal equipment. After everything broke down on my last weekend (see post below), I cannot believe that my old setup still works!
Arsenal’s open mic night is every third Wednesday of the month. Keep checking back for more information and to find out who August’s featured artist is going to be.
If you’re interested in becoming a featured artist at open mic night, please reach out to [email protected]
What a terrific night in Dormont, though…
This month’s featured artist, Joe Paul, showed off his multi-instrumental talents with guitar, mouth harp when he wasn’t singing, and had some great looping. He’s been at almost every Open Mic Nite since we started up and always puts together a great set. Thanks, Joe!
It was a great night for music and laughs; I was mostly excited about pulling it off without my normal equipment. After everything broke down on my last weekend (see post below), I cannot believe that my old setup still works!
Arsenal’s open mic night is every third Wednesday of the month. Keep checking back for more information and to find out who August’s featured artist is going to be.
If you’re interested in becoming a featured artist at open mic night, please reach out to [email protected]
WHEN EQUIPMENT BREAKS ALL AT ONCE
It’s been a long, LONG time since I’ve had equipment issues, but multiple issues is new to me. In one weekend, in ONE gig, my board decides to die, my DI box refuses to take a new battery, my pedal chord power source stops work, and the handle on my wagon snaps off. Not the best time for gigs to cancel due to bad weather, but we keep going, right?
So, if you see me out playing with an extra large tip jar, you now know why!
So, if you see me out playing with an extra large tip jar, you now know why!
NEW UPCYCLED PILLOW SNEAK PEAK
My last pillow I made sold to a huge Tori Amos fan and as hard as it was letting go, I know it went to a good home. That’s why I’m working on this upcoming Nirvana pillow, I know someone’s gonna love it!
I bought this Nirvana shirt and wore it maybe twice. After finding another one of their shirts (but long sleeved!), I thought I could make a really cool pillow. Here’s my progress so far.
I bought this Nirvana shirt and wore it maybe twice. After finding another one of their shirts (but long sleeved!), I thought I could make a really cool pillow. Here’s my progress so far.
NO JOB IS WORTH RISKING YOUR SAFETY
In southwestern Pennsylvania if it isn’t extreme heat, it’s extreme rain and flooding- not my kinda summer. Saturday evening on my way to a gig I had turned the car around to avoid getting stuck in some flash flooding, resulting in not being able to make it for my gig. No one ever likes a cancellation (this venue was certainly no exception), but my safety is more important than any job.
FARMERS MARKET SEASON IN FULL EFFECT
It’s hard to believe that I’ve entered my fifth season playing at the Murrysville Farmers Market. This is a great one to go to, located on Sardis Road, thanks to the Murrysville Fire Department for donating the space for it. It’s the perfect size with lots of parking and it doesn’t feel like you’re wondering into a big festival- unlike some farmers markets. Plenty of local produce, meats, dairy, and even libations from Pennsylvania are available. The Murrysville Library is there at times with activities for the kids, making sure there’s something for everyone. Also, don’t forget to take home my favorite pizza in Westmoreland County- Earth, Wheel, & Fire (incredible pies, trust me on this). You can go to MFM Facebook page for more info on all of the vendors. Can’t wait to be back July 26, 4-6!
ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL WEDNESDAY ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC NITE
June’s acoustic open mic night at Arsenal Cider House was an hit! This month’s featured artist, Hilary Wainwright, knocked it out of the park with her strong vocals and laid-back strumming. I can’t wait to hear more from her in the future.
We had an entire night filled with so much talent in multiple genres, original songs and covers, too. We had plenty of acoustic instruments, including guitars, acoustic bass, and percussion, to go with all of the vocals.
Be on the lookout for July’s acoustic open mic night! Arsenal’s open mic night is every third Wednesday of the month. Keep checking back for more information and to find out who the July featured artist is going to be.
If you’re interested in becoming a featured artist at open mic night, please reach out to [email protected]
We had an entire night filled with so much talent in multiple genres, original songs and covers, too. We had plenty of acoustic instruments, including guitars, acoustic bass, and percussion, to go with all of the vocals.
Be on the lookout for July’s acoustic open mic night! Arsenal’s open mic night is every third Wednesday of the month. Keep checking back for more information and to find out who the July featured artist is going to be.
If you’re interested in becoming a featured artist at open mic night, please reach out to [email protected]
LIVE MUSIC AT SENIOR CENTERS-
MORE IMPORTANT THAT YOU THINK
MORE IMPORTANT THAT YOU THINK
Playing for senior citizens is something I try prioritizing between public gigs. I’ve been singing to seniors ever since I was about 12 years old, not really understanding the full effect of live music to this specific age bracket until I was older.
These gigs aren’t only about singing and playing, they’re also about connecting with seniors. I encourage these folks to shout out their favorite songs. Sometimes I’ll get a story out of them about why a song is their favorite, which I love hearing about. It’s fun to take a trip down Memory Lane, even if it’s through someone else’s eyes.
This past Monday I performed some really great requests at a senior center in Westmoreland County, and had a blast. It’s always more fun when people sing and clap along, and we even had a few dancers! I look forward to playing more senior spots, as the power of music is truly uplifting.
Over the years it’s hard not to notice the minimal to zero funding senior programs receive (and still with cuts on the table). While this depressing trend continues, I am grateful to the folks who have been sponsoring me to play these facilities.
If you know a senior or a group of seniors who’d like to live music, and/or if you would like to be a sponsor for my next senior show, please go 👉🏻here or reach out at 412-727-0141
These gigs aren’t only about singing and playing, they’re also about connecting with seniors. I encourage these folks to shout out their favorite songs. Sometimes I’ll get a story out of them about why a song is their favorite, which I love hearing about. It’s fun to take a trip down Memory Lane, even if it’s through someone else’s eyes.
This past Monday I performed some really great requests at a senior center in Westmoreland County, and had a blast. It’s always more fun when people sing and clap along, and we even had a few dancers! I look forward to playing more senior spots, as the power of music is truly uplifting.
Over the years it’s hard not to notice the minimal to zero funding senior programs receive (and still with cuts on the table). While this depressing trend continues, I am grateful to the folks who have been sponsoring me to play these facilities.
If you know a senior or a group of seniors who’d like to live music, and/or if you would like to be a sponsor for my next senior show, please go 👉🏻here or reach out at 412-727-0141
SATURDAY NIGHT
PRIVATE PIZZA PARTY 🍕
PRIVATE PIZZA PARTY 🍕
Really fun time playing at my private party tonight- In-between songs I had some great drinks and awesome pizza from a super fancy outdoor pizza oven! This was my second year performing at this event and I had a ball playing everyone’s requests (Willie, Johnny, Linda, & Dolly were just a few of ‘em). I hope everyone had a great Saturday, I know I did!
FRIDAY NIGHT FLASHBACK
I had a super time at Fat Head’s with all the PGA folks in town this past Friday- lots of great requests from Joni Mitchell to Mary J. Blige.
Fat Head’s Friday each month is such a blast and I’m grateful to the folks who support me in the South Side. I’ll be back in July!
Tonight I’m playing a private event, but that’s all I can tell ya. Happy Saturday- stay dry and STAY SAFE.
Fat Head’s Friday each month is such a blast and I’m grateful to the folks who support me in the South Side. I’ll be back in July!
Tonight I’m playing a private event, but that’s all I can tell ya. Happy Saturday- stay dry and STAY SAFE.
