Here we are in mid-August. I have been a little quiet and things have been a little rocky. So rocky that I thought I had sent this email out a week ago, but it only went to me. Ya, it’s been like that…
Many of you know that my beloved, beautiful, creative, kind, funny, sharp-as-a-tack mama died on July 14. I was blessed and beyond grateful to have been at her side in Toronto, accompanied by my sister-in law, Carolyn, and my friend since childhood, Maureen. I have now had the unique experience of having been with my father, my brother and my mother when each of them took their last breath. And there is so much more to say about that, though not here.
Unfortunately, over these past 8 months, I have had to leave some of my bandmates and students somewhat stranded in order to care for mom and to travel back and forth to be with her.
I wouldn’t change anything, of course, but certainly my life has been in chaos, my routine disrupted, and I haven’t been announcing many of the shows that I have been able to play.
I’m now home and hopefully not having to make any surprise trips for some time, getting back into real life, and looking forward to these shows coming up:
Doe Bay Artists in Residence with Aaron Starkey
August 18-24 – Orcas Island
I’ll be up at the magnificent and healing Doe Bay Resort with pals Aaron Starkey and Jeff Baars (with a guest appearance from Tony Fulgham), writing and playing music and soaking up the Island vibes. Courtesy of the generosity and kindness of Joe & Maureen and the sweet folks up at DB who make these residencies in heaven possible every year for local artists. Grateful!
Dean Johnson (with Sera Cahoone solo and Rocky Votolato)
Wednesday August 26 @ Canlis
Doors @ 6pm
Yup! You read correctly. We’ll be playing in the Lower Lot of this famed restaurant with this killer lineup and what reportedly is the best parking lot food this side of the Mississippi!
Stephanie Anne Johnson
Thursday August 27, Kenmore Summer Concert Series
6-8pm FREE and All Ages
If you haven’t seen or heard Steph, then grab your picnic basket and blanket and head out to the beautiful Saint Edward State Park for a warm & satisfying evening of outdoor music that’s good for the heart and soul.
Blues Underground presents Hillman City Sway
Thursday August 27, Black and Tan Hall
Doors @ 7pm, Dance Lesson 8pm, Live Music 9-11pm
Come for the free dance lesson and dance your Blues away with our 6-8-piece band featuring Ricky Gene Powelll, Steve Flynn, Joe Seamons, Briar, John Oliver III, Martell Brooks, Jada Sills.
Jelly Rollers (Darren Loucas, Sean Divine, Eric Eagle, Ron Weinstein, yours truly)
Friday August 28, Owl ‘n Thistle Pub, Pioneer Square
9-Midnight
FREE. 21+
Swinging/improvisational Blues avec Hammond B3 organ and sometimes with Special Guests…
Dean Johnson
Saturday August 29, Quilcene Lantern, on the Olympic Peninsula
All Ages, Doors @6pm
This will be my last DJ show for a spell – and it will be under the stars on the Peninsula at this magical venue. I’ve heard so much about this beautiful place and its owners/managers and now I get to play it with Dean, Sam and Sera. Come hang with us!
Your Jack Album Release with Nat Meek, Annie Sutherland, Mike Heath, Andrew Frank
Thursday September 3, Sunset Tavern
I just finished recording with Your Jack and we had a sweet time and are looking forward to sharing some of these songs, old and new!
Darren Loucas (with Barton Carroll, Braly Sangster)
Friday September 11, Rabbit Box, PIke Place Market
I’m so excited to be playing this show and this incredible line-up of beyond-talented friends. And there are few venues as warm and intimate as this gem in the Pike Place Market.
Golden West (middle slot between Seola Station and featuring the Stereo Embers Reunion Show!)
Saturday September 12,Sunset Tavern, Ballard
Come out for this killer line-up, to see Kim & Kathy (and all of our big band) do their thing, and to celebrate the long-awaited reunion of the Stereo Embers.
Betsy Olson Band, in support of Jesse Roper
Friday September 25, Sunset Tavern
Betsy Olson Band welcomes Jeff MacIsaac on the drum kit for this special night in support of fellow Canuck Jesse Roper!
Rebecca Young Music 