Fortunate & Grateful
This year has been unbelievably humbling. The mission of playing for people has been on the list since I was 9 years old. Too chicken to do it until 2020, with the push and encouragement from dear friends, I procrastinated the pursuit post-covid. Watching people play, especially the solo acts, will always be mystifying to me. I don’t consider myself one of them. The folks that get up and do this every week, weekend, day, night, will always have my wonder and respect.
In December or so, 2024, the queen of merch, the band manager, the coach and life-force, my dear wife Lindsay, asked if I’d want to play out, again. I am naturally cautious, skeptical and after a lifetime in customer service, terrified of failure. Pursuing something, putting your name on it and serving the product, was and will always remain a mix of emotions.
Gratefully, she quickly turned out a list of prospective locations, bars, wineries, restaurants and other establishments that may take solo acts. She sent out 2 dozen requests and gave me a ton of feedback. Need a plan, a better website, some demos, social presence and a clean shirt. All of which I took to heart and got to work on. She’s been at the center of this and truly keeps me going when I’m out of gas.
With a few responses, we were off to races. We’ve made so many amazing relationships this year. From the new business owners, to the established events, each one I feel like became a member of our team and us, a part of theirs. Traveling up and down Virginia has been a treat, meeting all of you fine folks that come out to either try to drinks, food or music for an evening. Every week, we sit down and push a little more on meeting new people, new towns, new establishments and really do try to make it to everyone’s gigs in support of the other great musicians out there killing it. The community is real and everyone has been amazing to work with.
The product is still in production. The music is ever-evolving. I treat each show like a blank page. Trying every time to mix it up and get everyone involved. Live music is always about the people listening. The winter is coming and music will go inside for the next few months. I look forward to 2026 and a full schedule of opportunities to meet and see you guys in your favorite places to hang out. The mission will remain the same. Share and connect, as many times as possible, over music. If you see Lindsay, say hello. She’s in charge of nearly everything but strumming, but will 100%do a shot with you and your table :)
