John McCutcheon Returns to the Barns at Wolf Trap Again: Though Touring Behind His 43rd Album, the Prolific Songwriter Has More Tunes in the Works
Singer-songwriter John McCutcheon returns to the Barns at the Wolf Trap on April 20. “I have played at the Barns more than any other venue in the world,” said McCutcheon. “The first time I played there was 1981, which I believe was when they just opened up.” And excluding the pandemic, he has played the venue annually. Fans can expect tracks from McCutcheon’s latest album, “Leap!”, his 43rd record—equating to about one per year – as well as long-time favorites. Learn more with contributing writer Eric Althoff.
Crusin’ for Some Bluesin’: California’s Tommy Castro Set to Return to Annapolis—and the High Seas—with You!
Tommy Castro believes that what is considered “blues” music has shifted over the decades. Thus, what you might hear played on B.B. King’s Bluesville on SiriusXM falls under a rather broad catchall of various influences. Tommy Castro & the Painkillers will bring their swinging’ West Coast sound to the Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis April 2. It’ll be a rocking and rolling return for the ensemble that is not to be missed. Learn more with contributing writer Eric Althoff, including details on a special offer available to fans who purchase a ticket to the show.
Jeania Stewart: ‘We All Love, Wonder, and Ponder Life As We Wish Upon the Same Moon and Stars’
Pianist, percussionist, seamstress, world traveler, antique collector, art framer, wife, mother, Elvis enthusiast – just a few of the many roles balanced with grace by Jeania Stewart of The American Rogues – for whom the journey is the destination. Since joining The American Rogues officially in 2006, Stewart has become a secret ingredient to the award-winning Celtic rock collective’s successes. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross as she connects with Jeania Stewart in recognition of Irish American Heritage Month to discuss her starts, proud DMV roots, and exciting plans for the future.
Grimalkin Records is Standing Up for Marginalized Voices in the Music Industry
Grim Kells is an innovator. Nancy Grim Kells aka Grim makes music under the name Spartan Jet-Plex, as well as being the founder and Facilitator/Executive Director of Grimalkin, a nonprofit organization created “to mentor and support trans and queer musicians, particularly BIPOC and disabled artists, using an artist-centered holistic approach to break down barriers, create new systems and structures of support, and expand the reach of marginalized voices.” Learn more about Grim’s growing reach and impact with contributing writer Jaci Jedrych.
Keep Your Secrets Uses Their Lyrics to Say What Words Can’t
From a YouTube cover channel to their recently released second EP, Keep Your Secrets has been a community effort since its inception. Malerie Gamblin and Matt Nguyen-Ngo started their band as a cover channel. The duo had attended undergrad together at William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA and started the channel in 2020. Malerie sang and Matt played the instruments. Their turning point came in April 2021, however, when musician and influencer Joseph DuBay shouted out their TikTok and funneled thousands of listeners to their page. Learn more about Keep Your Secrets’ journey with contributing writer Jaci Jedrych.
All About the Fun: Jarreau Williams Exudes ‘Cherry’ Flavored Charisma
There is charisma, and then there is Jarreau Williams whose showmanship is bar none when it comes to DC’s Pop R&B scene. The 4-time Wammie Award winner has been stealing shows and hearts with his catchy tunes and unstoppable charm since he was a kid coming up in Alexandria, Virginia, and he continues to keep his sights set on the future with new shows and music for 2023. Despite the accolades that he’s accumulated in his music career so far, he remains humble and grounded about his process and his role in his local music scene. Learn more about Williams’ forthcoming single, “Cherry,” with contributing writer Charlie Maybee in this exclusive preview.
Plan 9 Presents Illiterate Light Live In-Store Performance, Album Signing, and Interview Hosted by WNRN
January 26, 2023
Plan 9 Records
Richmond, VA
KARLA BONOFF & LIVINGSTON TAYLOR “Home For The Holidays”
Sunday, December 11, 2022
The Birchmere
Alexandria, VA
Transitions Abound: Lauren Calve Hinges on the Edge of Something New
When it comes to singer-songwriter, Lauren Calve, there is a calm, yet electric essence that feels ready for every and anything that comes her way. She has been singing throughout her life, but it wasn’t until her late 20’s that she found her niche within the sounds of Americana blues. Since finding her home base, her late-bloomer energy has spun a nice flow of momentum that has taken her far in a short amount of time.
While her early inspirations ran the gambit of singing women with raw, acrobatic voices like Mariah Carrey and Sheryl Crow, it was a CD of voice instructor Brett Manning (who famously coached Hayley Williams of Paramore)
The Brazen Youth Touring in DC & Richmond
Sat, Nov 12 – The Black Cat (DC)
Sun, Nov 13 – The Broadberry (Richmond)
