You must fall down before you can walk

For years, my songwriting partner, has urged me to back myself up on guitar. Today, I found the courage to actually do it. I have played guitar for years writing my songs behind closed doors. I have played to explain to the musicians what I hear in my head. Today, I played at a small cafe in Edmonds, WA called Cafe Louvre. It was nerve wrecking. I am used to being surrounded by my musicians backing me up. This was a totally different feeling. It felt awkward. Especially the first 2 songs, but after that, it felt better. I still feel most comfortable just singing, but I respect my songwriting partner and figure there must be something to him so vehemently believing this is something I must do. So, the first time, although rocky is down. I have walked over the coals. Now to go back again. Moving to the great northwest to be closer to my mother feels interesting. There are many times that I miss aspects of New York and tonight I missed having my drummer/ songwriting partner there with me playing alongside me, but on the other hand, I am gaining loyal fans who I really appreciate. My mother and step-father came out to show their support.

Uncle Thurm's in Tacoma,WA has delicious soul food and great music

I had the opportunity to perform with Kareem Kandi and his band. Thurm suggested that we meet. The audience Kareem attracted seemed very loyal and attentive. I haven't seen such great listeners since I saw Tommy Flanagan at the Village Vanguard years ago. I dusted off some standards from my brain. It is always good to be versatile although my spirit leans towards rock much,much more.

I look forward to the day when all my new material is mixed and mastered so I can perform my own material again live.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Georgia Brown has also invited me to sing for her birthday bash at the 55 Bar . It is this Saturday, March 28, 2009. She has a lot of people coming down to wish her a Happy Birthday by performing. They call her one of the last red hot mamas and that is truly what she is. She reminds me of Shug Avery in that she is totally free when she performs. She says exactly what is on her mind. A very strong woman indeed. She has been kind enough to give me advice and take me under a wing a bit. I have a lot of respect for her and her experience. People need to observe and listen more.

My friend,Jim,had a great gig this past Tuesday. It always feels good to support one of my fellow musicians when they are doing the type of music that they really want to. It was a clean show in the sense that it was precise. You could tell the players had been around and knew exactly what they were doing.

It has been a long time since I have written here. I usually find myself writing when something intense has happened. This usually happens when you are truly living. And with that said. I am opening up and writing new songs.

It is finally spring. Well it is supposed to be. It is actually pretty cold outside. I need to spread my wings and start making some dramatic changes and at the same time let go.