Memorial Day was a very active Holiday in my house while growing up. It is officially the day for honoring the men and women who died while serving in the United States military. My dad served and survived both World War II and the Korean war so I grew up with the language of Veterans my entire life. Our home was filled with his memorabilia from his days "in the War." He was active in the VFW, and marched in Memorial Day Parades as a color guard. We would pack up and drive to small towns …
New York Chronicles: Ticket sales. “Buy Your Tickets Now!”
My New York Club debut is just around the corner. I am performing my Nina Simone tribute on Tuesday, July 2 at City Winery NY. $15. I have 300 seats to fill. Today, my niece texted me. "30 tickets sold!" I was not very enthused even though the placement of her exclamation point seemed to express excitement. I was filled with a mild panic. No one is coming. Now, I know the show is more than a month away. I know it's too early to tell. My BFF Babs said to me just last night: "Don't let one …
New York Chronicles: New York City, Here I Come!
I did it! I have booked myself in New York City as a headliner. I will be performing my musical tribute to Nina Simone on Tuesday, July 2nd at City Winery NYC. I am fairly confidant about my show and I know I will make a good impression on the New York audiences. But y'all know me - I have to fret about something. It's terrifying. The terrifying part is filling the room. I have told everyone I know about this show - at least twice. I am asking everyone to tell their friends and family in …
Artist’s Angst
Note from me: I wrote this post in early April but never published it. It seems that now is the time to let it all hang out before I start the "New York Chronicles." April 2, 2013 I go through this a lot. This self examination, this self incrimination. It was a normal morning. I stayed up till dawn watching a Sci-Fi series via Netflix on TV so I slept late. I was feeling hopeful. I booked two gigs this morning and I'm up for an award for Industry Excellence in Entertainment. Not a bad …
Punk Fan
What a long strange trip it's been. I discovered Punk as a freshman at Northwestern University in 1979 via some groovy kids in my dorm. I came across a few punk disciples then (granted it was a couple years after the beginning of the movement) and later sang at the infamous CBGB's with the band Urge Overkill. I could scream it with the best of 'em. …