My last 12 hours of my 36-hour NYC stint to self-promote the Nina Simone show at City Winery NY was spent being treated to lunch and walking around as much as my knees would allow it. After flying in on no sleep, battling stairs, heat, and public transportation, I took a long nap followed by a lovely evening at the venue. I got back to my hotel room and fell asleep immediately. Check-out was at noon. I woke up bright and early and made plans to go to lunch with an old college friend in …
The New York Chronicles: 36 Hours in the Big Apple, Part 2
What an adventure! What a pain: 6AM flight on no sleep, buses, subways, steamy subway tunnels and finally a nice nap before I ventured out to embark on my mission - promoting my upcoming City Winery NY show. Read all about that in Part One. Part Two continues the adventure: The venue and the concert in the pouring rain ... me with my hooded rain poncho and Swarovski encrusted flip flops City Winery NY I got to the venue, walked in and after being greeted warmly by the hostess and other staff, I …
The New York Chronicles: 36 Hours in the Big Apple, Part One.
I had a 6AM flight. I did not sleep the night before and so I traveled to NYC on no sleep. I got picked up by a dear soul (my friend Lisa) who brought me "snacks for the plane!" who offered to come round for me at 4:30am. (I'd have to mention the other angel in my life: BFF Brenda who gave me cash so I wouldn't be totally broke on my trip.) After a Hellish flight of cramped quarters for my ass and legs, I got off the plane and took the Q33 bus through Queens to the Subway station. By the time …
The New York Chronicles: The Plan
I depart for NYC tomorrow at 6AM. The plan is to go to the venue and get a feel for the room, the staff, the vibe and promote my show by handing out postcards at their outdoor music and wine festival featuring The English Beat. Weather forecast: thunderstorms. Oy! I've been spoiled by City Winery Chicago. They treat me like a queen. I am welcomed with open arms and hugs. I'm not quite sure what the vibe is at the New York venue. Right now I am just an unknown entity who is well-liked in …
Russell Brand, Howlin Wolf & Nina Simone
I was just inspired by three truly unique performers. I know it's an unlikely grouping but if you think about it - they have some important similarities: uniqueness, individuality, control over their own careers, intelligence and they are/were fantastic. It is the individuality of these three artists that has touched me. A British comedian, a Bluesman and Nina Simone. Their names alone say who they are if you know them. Think about it. Russell Brand: that's who he is. Howlin' Wolf: He's …