One Week ’till Nerfa! Reflecting on the Past Year

November 6th, 2008

The excitement is building… Next thursday, 700 folk, roots, blues and americana artists, presenters, dj’s and promoters will converge in Kerhonkson, NY for the 2008 North East Regional Folk Alliance Conference.

This is significant because it marks the one year anniversary of my decision to write and record “Traveling Salesman”. Last year, I was inspired by the community and the artistry that makes Nerfa the wonderful experience that it is. When Glen Roethel invited me to join the festivities, my musical identity was a little hazy. I had just recovered from laryngitis, and wasn’t playing a whole lot of music.

Step forward one year, and everything has changed. I have grown a wonderful circle of friends and musicians – all of us helping to support each other and grow together. I’ve got a record that I’m very happy to be out supporting, and next week I’ve got 11 Nerfa guerilla showcases scheduled; each giving me another chance to share my music with a great audience.

I’m not one to usually look forward and make plans. But, lately I’ve been really contemplative about the next steps. I’m antsy to get on the road while the record is fresh. I’d very much like to build the team of management, booking, sales and touring that enables me to take this music out to the masses. I know that, with a little road time, I can put together a great show that people will really enjoy, while I complete the follow-up to Traveling Salesman (which I’m working on now).

So thank you again to everyone who has seen me through the journey up to this point. Stick around for a while! I can’t do it without you, and things are just starting to get interesting!

Much Love!
Joe