After the pandemic turned our lives upside down, it’s heartwarming to see so many musicians back at it – sharing their music and bringing much needed joy back to the world. It feels like the collective grief we’ve all experienced – some affected much more negatively than others –has given way to a new normal. And gigs, shows and concerts in the Pacific Northwest have started up again!

For musicians who earned their living performing and touring, the pandemic has been devastating. But whether one makes their living solely through music or not, a 16 month unwanted break from gigging is a recipe for depression, anxiety, identity crises and a host of other challenges. Musicians need to play their music in order to feel whole and connected to themselves and others. I’ve always been a live performer who thrives from the energy the audience brings to a show – it’s just not the same live streaming music from my house and wondering if anyone is listening. I’ve missed playing guitar with my blues sisters in Canada and the US. And I’ve missed playing guitar and performing original roots and blues at venues and festivals around WA.

It was great to be invited to play at an all ages, outdoor 4^th of July show at a beautiful farm setting complete with virtual fireworks. As someone who cares deeply about encouraging our youth to play music, especially girls, it meant a lot to see tweens singing and drumming along and asking me questions about my electric guitars. I’m hoping they’ll be inspired to play music. The show was a lot of fun, the weather beautiful and the homemade beer and rhubarb ice cream was the best I’ve had. It was the best possible re-entry into playing live music again.

This weekend, Saturday July 28^th I’m looking forward to being part of the Heart of Anacortes and performing with the Badd Dog Blues Society. It’s a great feeling to be playing live music again!