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 …
The New York Chronicles: Excitement!
My New York Street-Team Leader just picked up my fliers for my City Winery Show NY on July 2. It feels real now for some reason. It's been in the distant future for so long. I am happy that the flier says it will "SELL OUT!" Ahhh ... The power of words. That one little phrase has boosted my morale like you wouldn't believe. I have been so worried about ticket sales that I forgot to hope and be positive. I forgot to approach this as an opportunity - a dream come true - a next step. New York. …
The New York Chronicles: From Panicked to Hopeful.
Last night I sang at Petterino's Monday Night Live which is a pro open mic night hosted by two dynamic women who happen to be my friends. Some of the other guest singers were from the touring casts of Broadway musicals playing here in Chicago ("Book of Mormon") and from the musical "Jungle Book" which makes it world premier at the Goodman Theatre Chicago. Most of the singers were from New York and their performances were breath-taking and awesome. It did my heart good to see them and to be …
The New York Chronicles: Social Media
We are entering the final stretch. My Musical Tribute to Nina Simone at City Winery NY is just a month away. I have gone through all kinds of panic over this show. Mostly, I have been traumatized over ticket sales but I have done much work thus far to promote this show. It has been too early to e-blast folks about a show months away so I have told everyone I know to tell their friends about the show mostly via Social Media. Social Media has become a powerful tool for so many reasons. It …