Little Mary Newsletter - September 2007

www.littlemary.com

Hard to believe that over two years have gone by since my ‘temporary move’ to Ohio . . . to say that I ‘miss Colorado’ is an understatement! Although it amazes me how much closer I have grown to friends who reside West of the Mississippi, even while I continue to reside East.

Summer of 2005 seems like a decade ago; with so many changes in this winding course of life. True, a songwriter seeks material for inspiration, and these past two years have provided just that. On July 28th of this year, I finally stepped into the studio with a notebook full of songs, with music and lyrics inspired by this time in Ohio; a journey through childhood memories, of reconnecting with family, and the disappointments and joy associated with these experiences.

The most incredible time was spent with my elderly, adopted-father. My first Summer here was a great time of happiness, and of precious moments with a man who has been the rock in my life since I was a young and wild teenager. It has been a few months now since he made his spiritual transition, and the memory of our time together will forever inspire me; his words will forever ‘remind’ me of who I am and where I come from.

It was necessary for me to take time away from the music-scene for a while; first to complete family obligations, then to heal from the loss of one so dear. Although I continue to hear his voice, pushing me to get back on the stage and to begin pursuing the life I love once again.

These past two years have been filled with some wonderful music experiences. I have been so lucky as to see live performances by Dr. John, John Hammond Jr., Mavis Staples, Deborah Coleman, Guy Davis, Walter Trout, Koko Taylor, and even the Funk Brothers! And, to top it all off, have added each one of their signatures to my precious collection of autographs. Most recently, The Funk Brothers were in town for a special United Way show, and I was blessed to meet Bob Babbitt, Uriel Jones and Eddie Willis. What an incredible experience to sit and talk with these so humble living legends of the Motown era!

Early this year, a great group of musicians from the Dayton area, The Gem City Soulshakers, approached me with a business proposition. They would be headlining the Dayton Blues Festival in August, and invited me to make a special guest appearance for their festival appearance. The timing was right, and on August 12th, we did it! The excitement and energy of working with a full band again surged through my veins like a new life force. I must mention these highly professional and extremely talented gentlemen; Jeb Buchanan- Harp, Doug Hart-Guitar, Tim Arnold-Guitar, Mike Jordan-Organ, Dana Clauser- Drums, and Martie Romie- Band Director, Booking Manager and Bass. A special thanks to the Gem City Soulshakers for inviting me to share the stage with them and for introducing me to the Dayton Blues Fest crowd.

The new CD will be ready this month. Completion of this all acoustic, original project helps to close a very personal and powerful chapter in my life. If you are looking for something to dance to, this disc is probably not for you, although if you enjoy lyrics that will make you laugh, cry and possibly reminisce . . . then add this to your Little Mary collection. In the meantime, stay tuned to the schedule page for road-dates and to this page for continued updates and tidbits of ‘blues-news’ from Ohio . . .