I Love It When People Love My Music

I have to admit there are days that I wonder why I do this...this music thing. But it's really easy when it comes down to it... it's the folks that get a kick out of my music that make me keep working and striving to get better and better. As I sit here tonight I realize that this time next week I'll be packed and ready to go compete in the International Blues Challenge on Beale Street in Memphis, TN again for the second year in a row. I had a blast last year and learned a lot... about what to play, how to play and how great the players around the world are. I can't wait to get back to Beale Street and show my stuff again. I can't wait to see old friends and make new friends. It will be great to see my new friends and supporters from Roanoke as they cheer me on.



Next week Beale Street will be crawling with thousands of blues fans and some of the best blues players in the world. I'm honored to be considered worthy to be one of them. The guys in this picture were so cool! They had such a great time with my music and this toast to me was one of my favorite musical moments. Next week on Beale Street will be another one of those moments... with the chance to be an even bigger moment.

Location:North Wilkesboro,United States

The Friends I've Made With My Music Are The Best Friends

During the last several years I've made the best friends with my music. Fans have become family. Fellow musicians have become brothers. Here's a pic of my friend, Ricky Teal from Lake Wylie, SC. I can't remember how many times he's come to see me play or how many private parties at his home I've played at. The friendship we've grown over the last 5 years is special to me. Heck, he's the reason I've let my hair grow. A few years ago he came to one of my shows and as usual loved it... but said I looked more like a rock star's accountant instead of a star/musician. He came to see me last weekend in Morganton and finally my hair is longer than his. :-)



Then there's my latest brother-from-another-mother, Gray Burchette. I met this awesome musician and luthier through a mutual friend and just over the last several months he's become one of my biggest supporters and my main goto resource for all things related to my recordings, recording equipment and mixes.

What I've learned from this is music lovers and musicians make the best friends. To my friends I want you to know how very much I appreciate all you do for me and with me. My life wouldn't be the same without you.

Location:Little Mountain Ch Rd,North Wilkesboro,United States