“Just remember in the world of dreams and visions, there are two main experiences. One where you find yourself tolerated and the other is where you find yourself celebrated. There is something to learn from both. Just be encouraged wherever you find yourself.” Ernest Keith

Pam @ Voodoo Lounge

Yes, this place looks just like it sounds.  It’s small, intimate and dark—but not smoky.  Clubs and restaurants don’t operate that way anymore.

I was once again thrilled to sing there with legendary triangle crooner Bill Stonehouse.

The thing that jazzed me the most was the opportunity to finally perform Mack the Knife.  This is a song I’ve longed to sing.  I was however intimidated by all the doggone words.  Well it’s funny what a made up mind can accomplish.  The lyrics are not etched in my brain and it’s such a fun song to do.

I wanted Mack the Knife to be included in my soon to be released album of songs—tentatively titled:  The full measure of a Woman.  Trouble is, when I brought the backing tracks to Osceola earlier that day, Dick heard warbling in the music and we couldn’t lay it down.  I was disappointed, but I had a backup plan and so we were good.

The yearning to showcase the wordy little ditty was satisfied when I handed a different disc to Bill, and the song played flawlessly.

I sang Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans, and dedicated to the people along the gulf coast as they deal with yet another blow to their enchanting way of life.

There was absolutely nothing jazzy or torchy about the song I performed next: Let’s Stay Together. It was in the style of both Al Green and Tina Turner.

I will say this about that night at the Voodoo:  Until I find my own nesting place (I know one day soon I will).. Hanging out with those who have a home and doing a song or two will do just fine.

Bill is there every Saturday night.  If you’d like to know more about the goings on.. then here’s a link:

www.reysrestaurant.com/

Onward + Upward…

     I have begun the work of recording an album.

     What was this feeling of nervousness that invaded my body?  It wasn’t typical for me.  I am generally so jazzed about any opportunity to sing, I leap into song with great gusto and glee.  No nerves.. just joy.

     Now that I’m in it, I’ve come to believe that it was more excitment than fear, for I’ve longed to push this journey along for some time now.  It doesn’t feel good to be stuck.  Blocked.

     The session went well and I like what I am learning.  For one thing,  this is just a baby step in the world of recording.  Singing to backing tracks is night and day from having talented muscians backing you up.  One day, some day.  I have to leave it like that because that’s so far down the road for me, I can’t even see it!

     We worked on three songs at Osceola Studios:  Fever, Besame Mucho, and California Dreamin’.  Dick  allowed me to record each song three times and we (he) picked the one that sounded best.. after blending parts from all three tracks.  I enjoyed watching him make that happen.   There will be some more “cleaning it up” work before we call it finished.

     There are 3 more songs to work on when I return to the studio.  I am not as confident about the last three songs as I was at the beginning of this process.

     I plan to replace at least one song.. maybe two of them.

     Initially I didn’t feel like I wanted to end the recording session.  We were on a roll.  But you know what they say:  Things happen for a reason.   I’m glad now that we stopped and I’ve had a chance to rethink my final 3. 

     Dick allowed me to hear some other “artists” he’s working with, as he burned me a copy of the songs I’d recorded.

     I heard a Christian/Gospel/ Soul Inspiration singer who is awesome.  Dick told me he’s been working with her for a year to produce her project.  A year!   But you know something?  The sound was in a word superb.  The musicians were tight, and she was rock solid.

    It allowed me to see and hear how far I have to go in this journey.

     This is my start.  I am recording my first CD.  Today I will be proud and satisfied with that.

     Onward + Upward!!

Take time to deliberate, but when the time for action arrives, stop thinking and go in.– Andrew Jackson

I’m really doing it.  This week, I’m recording an album at Osceola.  It’s a nice compilation of songs that I love.

     I’ve not been this excited for a long time.  I have butterflies in my tummy, and I like it.

     I made the decison to go in, after realizing there will never be a perfect time to do this.

     I’ve been working on these songs, rehearsing them over and over.  I was waiting for a feeling of perfection… hitting all the right notes.. all the time.  Now I recognize that enough is enough.  I just need to get this done.

     This made up mind of mine is pushing me forward.  It’s been easy peasy since then.  A call to Osceola put me on the schedule.  It will be just me, and the music, and a soundproof booth.  That’s exciting!

     Now my focus is on getting my mind right and focus on just being the best I can be.  I don’t know if it’s silly or not, but I’ve given thought to bringing into my booth.. images and props of things I love– such as the color purple (not the film.. just the color. it my favorite)… candles… pictures.. little things that bring me comfort and joy.

     I’ve got a few days to figure it all out, but I’m not stressing.   I’m smiling and loving living a creative life.

Onward and Upward!!

-Maya Angelou

A long time ago, my sister told me that if there’s a thing you really want to “be about” moving forward in a new year, then you should be sure to be in action– doing whatever that is, on the first day of the year.  Guess you could call it a resolution. For me, it is  much deeper than that.

I have never felt more alive about a passion or purpose than as a singer.

This year, like most years, all of my friends who entertain have gigs lined up for New Year’s Eve, and they are all lit up about what a great time they are going to have with all the folks partying in the new year.

I am actually working at my “real” job on New Year’s Eve.  I will be at the anchor desk, reporting on how others are ringing in 2010, along with the associated mayhem that goes along with it when people lose their grips on reality.

But there is more. There is MORE!!!

I came up with a way to follow my sister’s advice!

You see, my good friend Bill Stonehouse will be the featured crooner at Sullivan’s Restaurant in Raleigh on December 31st.  It’s located only five minutes from my job.

Know what I did?  I asked Bill if I could swing by the restaurant and do a few songs while the stars are still out.  I explained to him how much it means to me,  to be able to begin this new year, singing and feeling that inner joy I always get when I perform.  Generous as he is,  Bill told me, of course I could.

I am so excited about this opportunity.  My sister Teresa would be right proud!

My intention is to throw off the business clothes at 12:05am..  I will then slip into a black sequined gown and pretty stilettos, and sashay myself on over to the club.  I’ll probably only be there an hour before things shut down. I don’t even care about that.  Time is not important. Action is!

It’s gonna be a great night.  I just know it!

And to everyone reading this, I hope the dreams and wishes of your heart come true too.

My spirit was lifted last night.  And boy, was some goodness and light in order! After a long day at work screening news videos and copy that revealed way too much about the ugly sides of human nature, I was in desperate need of something completely different.

I didn’t have to travel far to experience some sweet relief.   I just had to drive about three miles from the office to Saint Ambrose Episcopal Church in Raleigh.  The church’s Jazz Mass Quintet was hosting its annual Evening of Jazz Celebration.

I was one of the featured performers, but I didn’t have to do anything right away.  When I walked in, the band leader told me they wanted to put me in the second set.  I told him that was not a problem at all.   I have participated in the Christmas program before at Saint Ambrose, so I knew what to expect:  Gifted musicians rocking the house, in the house of the Lord.  The quintet is modern, bold, and jazzy, yet it remains a music ministry.

The waiting gave me a chance to catch my breath.  I was able to sit down, relax, and just allow the sounds of holiday jazz to wash over me.  I was especially touched by the lead singer and sax player Bobby Moody when he sang a song called "My Gift to You."

The message of the song is essentially that love–one’s heart and soul– should be the gift we give at Christmas time for those who are dear to us.  Bobby sang it with such a clear and pure voice.  He made those listening really feel the words and emotions behind the song.  I will be adding that bad boy to my song list this weekend, for sure!

Among the other songs presented to the standing room only audience:  Santa Baby, Drummer Boy, My Favorite Things, Let it Be, and Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

I sang "I’ve Got My love to Keep Me Warm" and "The Christmas Song".

The musicians were flawless and the sound engineer was a master. They reminded me of the huge difference between singing with musicians and my custom of being a slave to musical backing tracks. The difference is night and day, and so I appreciate every opportunity to sing with a live band.

In a word,  the Evening of Jazz was great!

If I don’t get to sing another Holiday song this season, then I won’t be upset. No, I will be just fine.

My body and spirit are refreshed after a musical service that  took me away from the worries of the world to a place of sheer bliss.

"If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere."

F. Clark

Darn it, last night I missed my time to shine!   I signed up to sing at Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse, but it just wasn’t my night.

See, that’s a path down the interstate I’ve started taking lately with a good deal of frequency. Wednesday night is open mic night… But it’s also a school night.  In grown-up speak, I’m just saying that I’ve got work the next day and need to get to bed at a decent hour.

9pm gave way to 10pm. It got later, and I knew what I had to do. Exit and drive home.

Here’s the thing.. While I left the bar a bit disappointed, I also left completely entertained.

You can not help but have a grand time when you enter this little slice of the Louisiana Bayou.

I have come to enjoy the cast of characters who hit the stage on a regular basis to perform at open mic night.

I won’t call names— mainly because I’m not "regular" enough to know these folks, but I’m getting there.

Let me start with the man clutching his glass of liquid courage.  His voice is strong with a rich and sexy timber, but he seems to need to hold on to that strong little drinky drink to get the job done.  He’s heckled some about it, but it’s all in good fun. Whatever it takes, right?  He faithfully delivers.

Then, there’s the singing waitress… And lord hammercy can she sing!  That’s not all. She also plays a mean lead guitar.  I’m not done. She writes her own songs!   I must find out WHY she’s turning over tables and serving up incredible edibles. This one sings R+B, Blues.. And if I’m right, I do believe she can rock out as well.

Just one more talent story before I hit the publish button.  The musicians themselves.  This band of merry men do it all. I’ve seen the horn player and host beat the drums. I’ve seen the lead guitar player sing backup vocals like it was his job. I’ve seen him also play the drums. It’s a show within a show, I tell you!

I show up on Open Mic Night  to do my thing on the stage floor.  However, while I wait I am fully finding my happy place.  There’s no better space I’ve found to spend a Wednesday night.

If you’re curious about all the goings on at Mojos.. you can visit their website:

www.papamojosroadhouse.com

"To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong."

Chilton Pearce

Last week I had one heck of a time hanging out with singers and musicians at Papa Mojo’s

Roadhouse in Durham.

If you are not familiar with the area, it’s a tough little spot to find.  That’s why they call it a Roadhouse.

I love the layout of Papa Mojo’s.  It’s a little taste of New Orleans tucked away in a nondescript shopping center of Highway 55.

It felt good to see familiar faces around the stage and on the stage.  The signup sheet for performers was front and center.  I put myself in the lineup and found a seat.   It was a bit before 9:00pm and the place was packed.  I had to make some new friends quickly because there were no empty tables.. just a few open seats here and there.

Once I got myself settled, I began to think about what song(s) I would sing.  Fever’s always a good one.. bands always know that one.  Misty, The Nearness of You, Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans– so many good tunes ran through my head.

The first singer up was a lady in black.  She was excellent and looked comfortable on the stage.  She sang the two songs that I wanted to sing: FEVER and SMOOTH OPERATOR.

No worry, I thought.  There were still lots of musicians in front of me.  I’d come up with something.  I settled down with my glass of ginger ale, and just enjoyed the show.  And believe me, it was a SHOW!

There was talent touching the stage.. on so many levels.  All sorts of people having a good time.

One thing I did not expect was the level of audience participation.  They talked back to the talent, they’d talk about the talent,  and if they loved the song being performed.. heck, they’d sing right along.  It reminded me a little bit of Showtime at the Apollo.

I told myself I would not let that bother me. Just do what you do.. I told myself.

In about one hour’s time, Brett Chambers.. who hosts Open Mic.. called my name.

I was warmly welcomed. I joked to the patrons, they might want to wait until they heard me before they gave that kind of applause.

My first song was a Jill Scott tune called "The Way".  Everybody knows THAT one… and I had a good time singing it.  One of the lead guitarists is a fellow I know from way back, and he was the one from the band harmonizing with the singers.  He was great.  I was well received.. and just happy to have a chance to sing.

I was on my way to my chair, when Brett stopped me, and said every performer does two songs.  I did notice that others had done that, but I just assumed that was their choice.   I came back and sang Smokey Robinson’s Oooo Baby Baby.  That one went down well, too.

Finally at my seat for good, I was happy to get some high fives, handshakes and words of encouragement. It was a good night all the way around.

Better yet.. Mel Melton– who is the Top Food + Music Guy at Papa Mojo’s approached me with his business card and yelled, "You’re hired!"

Made my night!

Friends, I got a call from Mel the next day.  He and others at the Roadhouse are working on doing something different on Thursday nights– some singing.. some comedy– they’re tinkering with the big picture.  I don’t know how it’s going to turn out, but I hope and trust my name is associated with it.  Stay tuned for more on that!

In the meantime, I know where I’m going to be on Wednesday nights for awhile.  That’s open mic night at Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse.

You can find out what else is cooking there and how to get there by visiting their website:

www.papamojosroadhouse.com

What’s that new saying everybody’s using these days? Don’t talk about it. Be about it!

Well, that’s how I intend to live my musical life.

If a singing career is what I want to achieve, then it’s going to take me beating a few bushes and introducing myself to men and women who are looking to expand their talent line-up.

That’s what I did before I landed the Saturday Night Slot at Prime Only.. but that’s ancient history now.

I have had two people recently approach me about a couple of bars/restaurants in the Triangle.. venues they thought would perfect for my personality and style of singing.  I listened, but took no action.

I mean I googled both places and put a mental bookmark in my brain to check them out– one day, some day.  That’s not good.  That’s not action.

The first place is called The Prime Smokehouse. It is in Garner.  There is live jazz there. REAL GOOD music I’m told.  Some of the big names in the area show up there to perform. It sounds like one of THE places to be.  When I "field trip" there, my intention will be to ask about week night possibilities.  To me, that would better suit my setup of singing with backing tracks.

The other spot is Papa Mojo’s Roadhous e in Durham.  Don’t you just love the name of it?  I know I do!!

I have an associate who plays at Papa Mojo’s on open mic night.  I’ve not had the best experiences in the past with participating in open mic, but it could be just the way to slip into  restaurant and get introduced to the right people.   Again, I’d be inquiring about week night gig openings.

What’s stopping me?  Why am I only now blogging about taking a field trip?  Call me silly. Call me crazy. But I kindof didn’t really want to go it alone.  I didn’t want to show up in a  crowded bar by myself.

I will from time to time throw a question/invitation out there–  asking around among friends who’s free on any given night, who wants to go out– and when plans don’t come together– well I just stay at home and do nothing.

No more!

"Go as far as the eye can see, and when you get there, look farther."

Dag Hammarskjold

No.. no.. no.  I didn’t do like the kiddies do.  I wasn’t whisked away to enjoy fun and frolic time… making summer time memories.

Further, there is nothing to report to the teacher… just y’all– my friends who follow me and visit this blog from time to time.

I am simply taking some time to reflect on the breadth and depth of my musical journey over the summer months.   Tuesday, September 22nd marks the first day of autumn.

In a word, Summer’s been grand !

The ground work for what would turn into one heck of a ride actually began in the Spring.. in March.. when Wayne Free of the Embers contacted me.  Wayne wanted to know if I would entertain the idea of singing with the band during their summer concert series.

When I finally shut my mouth and stopped grinning, I was able to compose an intelligent reply to Wayne’s email.  With that, we were off!

I performed 2 "official" publicized gigs with the band.  There were some unofficial performances, as well. Bonus for me.  Wooooooo!!

What was especially good about the experience the Embers– well it nudged me off my safe and refined lady of jazz pedestal a bit.

I mean you can’t sing Aretha’s Chain of Fools without finding a funky, soulful vein in your body. It requires you to move and grove and get down.  I shake my head at myself, because I had to go do a different place in my heart + head.  I never felt great doing the song, but it was a great exercise in being versatile.

If you go to the Embers website, you can hear some of the songs we performed together.

Theembersband.net

The other musical highlight for me this summer, was celebrating a milestone with one of the Triangle’s favorite Greek Restaurants:  XIOS in Apex.  At one point, I promised patrons that I would do a belly dance before the night was over. There was a mad dash to the door. Just kidding…

What I loved about the night at XIOS was the warmth of the diners at the restaurant. I saw friends and I made some new friends.  Everyone was in a festive mood from start to finish. I created a playlist only of songs that I love, love, love. I had a blast singing, and everyone seemed to enjoy the show.

It had been some time since I did the old one woman band routine, and while it lacks the freedom, flexibility and improvisation that flows with live musicans… well, I do like the full measure of control that I have over how every song is going to go.

It works for me.

And now as summer makes it way to fall, I am left with this question:  Now what are you going to do?

Presently, I don’t have an answer. That doesn’t sit well with me.

Come back soon, and see what a woman on a mission with a message can do.

Gloria Dunn

They are North Carolina’s official musical ambassadors:  The Embers.

Oh yeah… everybody knows them for performing "Beach Music"… but to me they are much much more than that!

The Embers sing the songs I remember from back in the day.. when I was a young girl growing up in Riviera Beach Florida.   Oh I can get real specific with this.  They perform songs such as: OH GIRL,  COWBOYS TO GIRLS, I’LL BE AROUND, STUBBORN KIND OF FELLOW,  and  LOVE WON’T LET ME WAIT. Those songs.

I have had many brushes with their greatness here in the Triangle… at several festivals and fundraisers.

They are the perfect band to book especially in the summer time… when people are outside enjoying themselves.  I swear this band is everywhere!  What a gig to have!  I mean this is their job– PERFORMING– it’s how they make a living full time out in the world.  These are some lucky, lucky musicians in my book.

Here’s my big news about "Smoldering with The Embers":  I have been in communication with the lead vocalist: Wayne Free.  He and I participated in a huge event founded by the late Kay Yow at NC State University. It was the Kay Yow Hoops For Hope basketball game at Reynold Colliseum held in February.  At the half time celebration for breast cancer survivors, the Embers performed a song called "Never Give Up:.  They dedicated it to Coach Yow.

Wayne’s heard about my journey and desire to sing professionally, and so he’s invited me to sing with the Embers at some of their upcoming performances during this spring and summer.

There’s one song we’re definitely going to do: A song by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell: Precious Love .  I could have melted when Wayne suggested that song, because I am a huge Marvin Gaye fan and that song’s on my i-pod playlist.

It just feels like good things are flowing, and falling right in place, at the right time.

If you love the Embers like I do, and want to read more about them and their performance schedule check out this link:

www.theembersband.net