The 100-day gig season in the northland was another memorable one. BIG thanks to all of the local establishments supporting the live music scene - both those that booked me and those who didn't! The Chequamegon Bay and surrounding area has an embarrassment of artistic riches for all to share. I'm awfully grateful to be a part of it.
Like now, the early part of last year (and most of them) was a time to work on and work out new material. April brought a return to Inner Groove Studios in Minneapolis to record “All I Want for Christmas is the Funk”. The new single was released on November 1 and the video release party followed at Morty's Pub, where we recorded some great footage that made it into the final video. It was also cool that it received some local press coverage.
My children's book “Bear the Cat” was released on October 20. It was first conceived circa 2000 or so and was copyrighted in 2002. After numerous attempts to find the right artist (and a small claim and offer to appear on Judge Joe Brown in between) the incomparable Holly Tourdot and I started to work on what is now the final hard cover book in earnest around 2019. We struggled through the covid pandemic, Holly suffered through major health issues, and we both battled to maintain our sanity all the way through to the end. I couldn't be more pleased with the way everything turned out. HUGE props to the wonderful Holly Tourdot - I truly couldn't have done it without her. I'm also working on a video of the book, narrated by yours truly and scored by Brother Jon Rabideaux, so keep your eye out for that…
I also started to play the new song “Love You Like Chicken” as part of my live set later in the season. It's meant to send back the feeling that I get from all of you when I play out, and that is its inspiration. I plan to record it this Spring so stay posted - I've got some fun ideas for the video!
I know that the craziness of the world is sometimes overwhelming and hope that my music provides solace and escape to you if you need that. Can't wait to see you at a show in 2026!
