shakeh

This past Saturday we had the first of what I plan on making a series of desert musical concerts!  And it was a slam dunk success!  I shared my living room stage with the wonderful Karie Hillery on grand piano singing her wonderful original songs about love, peace and world consciousness.  Also joined by Susan and Jesse Henry on hot horns playing cool jazz and then we add in the supremely talented Dwain Roque on percussion and etc. and the evening was Kismet.  We had a full house of 27 people from the neighborhood and beyond. I closed out the night playing songs from "Keep Talkin' Bout Me" and the new CD coming out in a few months.  I had such a wonderful time and got a lot of calls after telling me what a good time everybody had.  So, yes......we will do another one as soon as I can!

The greatest love of all is easy to acheive.  That line always bugged me because it's not true.  Loving yourself is not easy to do.  And Whitney Houston had that self destructive streak in her which was ultimately her undoing. To see her early footage where she sang so effortlessly and powerfully and then footage where she could barely carry a tune in the last years was heartbreaking.  Did no one care enough about this woman to step in and help her?  Or did everyone try and she resisted them all anyway?  I guess we'll never know. I celebrate the fact that she gave us so much. I mourn that she didn't have enough love for herself to give to herself to be with us today. 

I had so much fun playing outside at the Savage Gallery last night.  Singer/songwriter Adam Fuller was the main act so I opened and did another set mid way through.  Good to see some friends both new and old and be in the moment outside under the desert sky.  Planning two house concerts next month in Joshua Tree and Palm Springs.  It will be fun!

Well, getting through the first Christmas season with out Mom and my birthday two days ago was a bit challenging.  But with all of my great friends to support me and the love I felt surrounded by (yes, I do feel my Mother is with me) I realize that I am healing and 2012 is going to be a fabulous year. Last night I played at The Other Door in Burbank.  I was a last minute fill in and knew I wouldn't be having people all the way out there and was prepared that I could be playing to an empty room but I knew I'd feel better just being in the moment of performing. Sure enough, nobody hanging in the band room but there were people in the bar and billiards area.  So, being wireless and fearless I just went and played out there with them and it was way fun.  Scott, the sound guy, was way cool and turned me up in the bar and I rocked it and felt so good. One thing I have learned is that you never let the room win.  You never think "golly, they aren't listening to me, they don't care, I suck, why am I doing this, I'm a total failure....the moment you go there the room has won.  You go on with the Shakeh show like it's a stadium or a very intimate setting where you are totally loved.  Because in the end you need to feel that you "brought it". If someone gets it that's even better. But you can't let down yourself. I am blessed with so much and I will honor my talents and my artistry because I love what I do and I am on this earth to do it.

Well....My day job is gone as of tomorrow.  I have filed for divorce as of yesterday. Yet, I am amazingly optimistic at this point in my life.  I feel that the best is coming  and the answers are there between the guitar and me. I am so grateful for my wonderful network of friends, my talents, my health and the endless possibilities that will be part of my future!

I had done a benefit for the Palm Springs Animal Shelter in January and donated a house concert besides. The recipient of that, George, had me in last night and it was so much fun. Great group of people and I got lots of kudos, made new friends, sold CDs and got some extra unexpected tips besides. But the best thing was the energy of this splendid group of individuals. I felt right at home and just cut loose. Felt so good to be appreciated and have fun doing what I love to do. Thank you George, family and friends for a magical evening.

On Wednesday morning, March 23rd., my cute little Mommie, Violet Elsie Herbekian, left this world for her next destination. Elizabeth Taylor also exited this earth and I like to think they bumped into each other and are now having some great conversations. My dear friend Chelle Pahinui's father also moved on the same day. Mom went in her sleep, in her house, her daughters were here and she was not in any pain. I miss her terribly. The house seems so empty. But it was time for her to move on and I feel good about being here with her these past weeks. I feel like I can now recreate my life and I believe the best is yet to be. Thanks to all of those who have supported me so lovingly and well during this time.

Boy, what a fabulous time I had. It was all great. Got a killer deal on a room for $38 a night, $100 bill in my tip jar, being a musical Goddess for two Five hour days and keeping it going strong. Made up a lot of songs for people, met some great folks, made new contacts and reconnected with some old friends as well. All in all, it couldn't have gone much better. Got videos with the Flip that I posted on Facebook and I feel that social networking is getting easier and better all the time. I look forward to more great events and shows in my future. It's good to play and be appreciated. It's good to be alive. Thanking God for my musical gifts and for wine and chocolate too!

Got my fabulous 5 minutes of fame last night auditioning for Open Call at the McCallum Theatre. Felt so good to be just me, the Taylor, big stage, great sound, singing Coffee For One to about 20 people for judges and I believe I did well. Now we wait and see.

I had a blast playing this benefit in downtown Palm Springs. Wireless means I get to be all over the room and we made five thousand dollars towards the construction of the new Palm Springs Animal Shelter they are building. Swank Interiors specializes in 50s, 60s, 70s furnishings and to see all these people, dogs and vintage pieces in one place was really a trip.

I volunteered at the last minute to do a benefit for Women in Wine Palm Springs at the La Quinta Hotel and had a wonderful time. First of all, it was a good cause for kids with emotional challenges and second, it was a wine event at a fabulous place. The La Quinta Hotel and Resort has been there since 1926 and they had amazing lights, Christmas trees, and magic galore. I drove down the driveway thinking yeah....this is way cool....I got a lot of kudos, some prospective gigs, dinner and got to hang out with some lovely people. But the best thing was that I had fun and felt really good. Mom is getting slowly better and I still hope to get my life back the end of the year to a more or less degree. Happy Holidays!

My Mom still has a lot of pain from nerve damage from her shingles so we're into the third month now. It's difficult to know what will happen long term so I'm not booking much right now for the future but I did join Sonic Bids and Music X-Ray for opportunities and am trying to play/write as much as possible here. I did an open mic which will lead to some dates here in the desert so the beat goes on as best it can. I miss my LA life and friends but know that I am doing one of the most important jobs of my life helping my Mother get her life back. I have been so grateful for the counsel of many wonderful friends and every time I look at my Taylor guitar I remember that God brought me that guitar for a reason and I am blessed to have so much in my life on all levels.

I got out of town to play Paso Wine Centre and had two really wonderful evenings playing my music and selected standards. Got my photo and a nice write up in the New Times and enjoyed being back into my gypsy self for a few days. I'll definitely be going back soon!

That's what my Aunt Annie used to say and she made it to 102...."It's a great life if you don't weaken." These past 6 weeks I've been in the desert taking care of Mom since she has shingles. Have made a few quick trips to LA to do gigs, get my mail, wave at the apartment, see a few friends quickly and etc. We are not out of the woods yet and I'm not sure how long this will go on. Grateful that I have the strength to do this and that I can do my day job from a cell phone and a computer anywhere. I am in LA today and yesterday played the VA and an Assited Living venue in Santa Monica. Had a lot of fun and it felt good to play and have appreciative audiences and feel I made a difference. In October I'll be in Salt Lake City, Vegas, and then back to the Central Coast for more gigs and then to the desert again. Haven't had a lot of time to write, but I do have some great new songs I'm working on. Ciao, Bella

Well, it was one of the best gigs I've had in awhile. Got to see Kathleen, a fan, from long ago and reunite with her. Will set up gigs in Fresno through contacts she's given me. It was a gorgeous day and I had a blast and made good money and left with some bottles of wine to boot. I will be back there in October. Have scoped out a lot of other places to play as well so I'm excited. I saw a show recently on Carlsbad Caverns. I was there probably when I was 10 but remember it so vividly. It's pulling on me so I feel I need to go there soon. Road trip!

It has been triple digits here which is normal for the desert in August. I've sat in playing music at a couple of places and been very well received. Not sure how much longer I'll be here. Mom has shingles and I am taking care of her until she's better and it could be a few weeks or a few months. Funny how your life just grinds to a halt and your most important issues concern pills, rest, cooking, laundry, cleaning and lots of other stuff you never even think about at all. I am looking forward to being in LA on Friday and doing my gig at Namaste in Redondo Beach that evening. I have plans for central coast gigs also in September that I'm planning on doing so we'll see how it goes. Mom will be 85 in two days.

I had a wonderful time on my Northwest Gigs. Playing for the residents at Bellingham Merrill Gardens was so fun. They loved me and were such a great audience. Then I did the Seattle Premium Outlets Mall outside which is always a treat and after that on Sunday the Everett Farmer's Market outside. It was overcast, but no rain so we were ahead of the game. Made a lot in tips and got a lot of great comments. My Mom has been having a few issues so I left the Northwest early to be with her here in Palm Springs until she gets back up and running at her usual warp speed. Will be at the Namaste Cafe later this month with Dwain which I am looking forward to.

Wow.....I have been visiting this group once or twice a month and have seen a definite shift in the past two visits. People that stared off blankly into nowhere have a light in their eyes and are mouthing words and smiling and clapping and moving. To bring them joy brings me joy. I'm so lucky to be there.

I played in the lobby last Friday at the VA and had such a blast. I did mainly old favorites and walked around serenading the people waiting for appointments and etc. Some gave me candy, some gave me winks, a lot gave me thank yous and compliments and I felt really great. The power of music to lift, heal and inspire people is always amazing to me. And when I get to be the vehicle of that....what an honor.

Having gone through the ups and downs and challenges of being an independent artist and , currently, the financial restructuring that many of us are going through with these tough times, I am amazed at how many of us are reinventing ourselves. I feel like I am coming into the best time of my life. I am frustrated at not spending more of my time on my music. As an artist, I thrive on the open spaces of time, long walks, just being in a place of receiving. Right now I'm running around so much after the financial security that those pockets of time don't exist for me. But the up side is that when I do play I have a deeper appreciation for the magic of making music and the power it gives me. I have desperately wanted commercial success, attention, money, etc. over the years. But I never knew that what I'd get out of this journey was such an amazing feeling of inner peace, strength, satisfaction and appreciation for the sheer magic of creating and embodying music in motion. I'm grateful for Dwain Roque who plays with me so brilliantly, supporters like Bennett Zimmerman, Karie Hilary who is doing recording with me and doing such a phenomenal job, plus all of you who have seen me, bought my CDs, shared with me over the years. Some people search all their lives for magic. I just have to pick up my guitar. I'm a lucky, lucky girl!

There is always that delicious, tired but fulfilled feeling you get when you've done your last gig and it went well and you've got the gear all packed and are heading either home or to the next motel to crash. Playing The Porch on Friday night was a blast with a rowdy group of locals who stayed with me the entire 2 hours. Paradise Store was way fun being outside on the patio with a killer view and a lot of fun folks. They have two locations for music and Bob is dedicated to keeping live music going on there which is wonderful since the Santa Barbara scene like so many others seems to be pretty bleak for us live music types. I'll probably go back there in the fall. It's been awhile since I was doing 4 gigs in a row and travelling but felt so very good. Plus I was in beautiful places with killer weather and also staying with my good friends Sharine and Ron. At the end of the 4 days I was super, super tight on my playing and felt really back in the saddle completely. While at the Porch, I saw an article on a local girl...I think she was 12 or 14 who is the newest up and coming country performer. She's opened for Meryl Haggard and done some other cool things. It always strikes me as so odd that part of someone's appeal as an artist is that they are as young as possible. If she was really fabulous but 6 would she be more appealing? What if she was as good as she was but she was 40? Less appealing? For me, I wasn't a prodigy musically or a really cute young girl or came from a really supportive family for my music. I never felt that overwhelming support or security in what I was doing. It's always been a challenge to be better, put in the time to book gigs and submit your music and go to schmooze it or lose it events. Like most musicians, I've spent a lot of time trying to figure out what I need to do to be "successful" and beating myself up a lot because I didn't feel good enough. But now I'm at a really clear place about what I've done because I would never have been the person I am without all of those struggles. I would never have been as good as I am if I hadn't come to LA and made my mistakes and gotten into debt and had those frustrations. I would never have written the songs that I've written or had the experiences that I have had without taking all the risks that I've taken these years. My ultimate reward which I experience every time I play now is that amazing feeling of realizing that my power is in what I do. I move people. I connect with people. I lift people through my music and I get to fly myself. I am totally at one with what I do and grateful that I have the strength and desire to keep putting it out there and being a musician. I am grateful for my talents and my artistry and am looking forward to whatever comes next.

Had 200 people at Atascadero State Hospital and had a blast. Big stage, fantastic sound system, and me with my guitar. Great to look out and see them digging what I'm doing wether a cover song or one of my own. Then last night I was the guest artist at The Porch songwriters at play evening and that was really fun. Had a very good crowd. Tonight I'm back there again doing my own show from 7-9 PM. I scoped out a bunch of wineries to play at for the future and it was a gorgeous day and drive. They all wanted me to taste wine, but I was driving, had to play last night and am a total light weight when it comes to drinking anyway! Good to be back in the "touring artist" conversation of my life.

It was loud, it was crazy, it was a blast. So great to have Dwain playing and a room full of people and be in the moment. I love what I do. Thank you!

The other day I did my volunteer time going bedside at the VA and each time I go in I find another scenario, gear up to do that one song that I know will lift their spirits or soothe them. Then I always thank them for being a veteran and their sacrifices so that we can be free in this country of ours. Each room I go into is a whole separate world of a person and their lives and where they are at this exact moment. Maybe I'm there for 5 minutes and I move on. But I give out 200 percent in that five minutes and I know I made a difference and that makes me feel sooooo good!

Things are changing...how many of you are saying that these days....have been so involved in making money and staying afloat that the music schedule has suffered. However, I've got the central coast in May and am working on dates here in LA and up north. I sound better than ever and am enjoying being in the conversation of being a musician as much as possible. Songwriters Sanctum last week was so cool. Reminded me of how lucky I am to do what I do and sharing with other talented people like Dale La Duke and Joyce Woodson was pure joy.

Hard to believe that Honey and I will be celebrating 20 years of marriage on St. Patrick's Day, March 17th.! We will be in Xtapa,Mexico...yes, I know there have been bad things going on with the banditos and the tourists, but we will be safe and sane in our travels. Looking forward to the trip and the beach and spending some quality time together.

I am sitting in a Comfort Inn in Atlanta having spent all week at a Medical/Technical conference on my day job and I realize after running my legs off, talking to tons of people and taking copious notes that I hate this....Where's my guitar when I need it....where's Shakeh the artist? I know I'm still there and I'm way cool and I'm so totally in love with what I do. So why am I not doing more of it? Dwain and I had such a great gig at the World Cafe and it felt so good. That being said, no more whining....I'm going to get on the phone and start doing some booking. The pity party is now officially over.

I just got my computer back today, Feb. 25th. after having it gone since the 11th. I can't tell you what a relief it is to be back in the saddle so to speak. On one hand, I was glad not to have the constant input. On the other hand, so much information is in the little beast it's staggering. Yes, I had backed up a week before....but I'm glad that the new motherboard is functioning well and we are back in touch with the universe at large.

On Monday I volunteered at the Brotman TCU and got to meet Fanny who was 94, into country music, so I played Crazy and I Walk The Line. She had grip like a truck driver and was sharp as a bell and when I asked her where she was going next, she said with a chuckle, "My next stop is going to be the underground motel". 94 and still has her sense of humor. I walked out of there greatful for having been exposed to such a vibrant, spirited soul who made me laugh out loud.

Yesterday we put the finishing touches on "Take Me To Jericho" at Steve Refling's studio. I have an acoustic version which I love and the full blown, rocking version will be mixed by the end of the week. Feels so good to be back in the studio conversation. Looking forward to my gig tomorrow night at Redondo Beach Center for Spiritual Living Namaste Cafe at 7:30 PM with Dwain Roque.

I had a great time last night being a part of Dave Strauss' Flat Cat Radio show online. Dave has been a part of the LA original music scene for a long time and has had this show for 3 years now.He has always been about helping his fellow musicans. One of the most fun parts was seeing and being added to his "Wall of Fame" because I got to see pictures of a lot of people that I know. We talked, spun some CD tracks, and I did some songs live. He's booked for months, but had a cancellation so I was able to get on. Check out the site at http://www.flatcatradio.com Thanks Dave for supporting independent musicians and giving us this forum to strut our stuff and be a part of independent online radio. You rock!

Today is my birthday and I always email my list to get birthday wishes and find out what's going on with everyone else. Last night at Yoshi's in San Francisco with Cyril Pahinui playing was really nice. The club is right there on Fillmore and quite an impressive place. I feel really blessed that I got to start off the year this way playing and promoting music and am looking forward to a great 2010!

Cyril wowed a full house and then I went on with Rafael and Karie and we were having a great time and then when I was ready to do my last song, "Never Been Cool", this man came in all lit up like a Christmas Tree and we both danced together which was totally spontaneous, hilarious and just plain magical! Sometimes I look at my life and I swear, you couldn't plan these kinds of things if you tried to!

Don Quixote's was packed and we had a great show. Karie and Rafael really came through for me. People showed up to decorate the stage with plants and beautiful Hawaiian drapings. The audience was very appreciative and I had a blast. At one point while Cyril was on stage I looked around and said to myself,"I did this, I created this". It was a good moment. Norm from KAPU said nobody had ever done as good a job as I did promoting a Hawaiian show here. So it was huge success and I'm very pleased with the results. This one lady named Patty sat in on pedal steel who had been doing it since she was 14 and was marvelous with Cyril and another guy on bass who was really good. They called up danceers including Chelle, Cyril's wife and one of my best friends. She is so graceful when she dances. It's incredible. I could not have started off 2010 any better than that. Mahalo to the universe and all who attended.

Yesterday's radio appearance at KSCO was way fun. Karie came with me to do percussion and background vocals. This station is adorable and has been there since 1947 with only 3 owners in its entire history. Right now my hair is done, my toenails polished...not wearing open toe shoes but one should always be prepared no matter what...going to do a quick run through at Karie's once Rafael gets here and then we do sound check at 6 PM and the show starts at 8 PM. First day of 2010 and I'll be doing what I love to do. Starting off the year right....yeah baby!!

A huge disappointment that my compadre Dwain Roque won't be able to make it up to do these shows with me. But, I rehearsed yesterday with Rafael Herrera and Karie Hillery and we sound great so I'm confident that things will go well. Tomorrow I do my interview and play live on KSCO in Santa Cruz on the Rosemary Chalmers show. Getting excited about the upcoming events this weekend!

Just got off of my interview with Lani B. at KZSC on her Breakfast in Bed show. We did a little bit of Never Been Cool live and played some tracks off of the CD in the studio. Feels good to be a star in your slippers.... And the beat goes on!

I have been diligently calling radio and press people to promote shows with Cyril Pahinui in January at Don Quixote's and Yoshi's in San Francisco. The club owners have given me kudos for my work so far. It's a lot easier making phone calls when people know the artist already!! But as the opener, I'm getting some exposure also which is fun. It's going to be intense the next few weeks, but I'm committed to a full house at Don Quixote's and a great show.

It's been a rollercoaster ride this past year. I'll be glad to see 2009 go bye byes, but I think it has also been a time to confront a lot of demons and reinvent myself. I promise more music in 2010!! Love my new song...."Take Me To Jericho". Greatful for my health, wonderful friends and family, my music and my life. Have a great Holiday!

I just booked some great dates for Cyril Pahinui to start the year off and will be opening on Jan. 1st. at Don Quixote's in Felton which is 10 miles from Santa Cruz with Dwain Roque. Cyril will also be performing on Sunday,Jan. 3rd at Yoshi's in San Francisco. Pretty cool!!!

You know...some days are so perfect that you have to comment. Here I am...gorgeous sunny day right on the water at Historical Cama Beach State park. The cabins all look like they're still in the 30s, I'm practically standing on the beach, the sun is out, the people are loving me, I sold some CDs and I go back and do it again on Saturday. Lucky, lucky me!

Last night was a blast at the Conway Muse. Owner, Alpha, has created a wonderful environment for artistic expression, 3 great performance spaces, with an eclectic decor. Lita keeps things rolling along with charm and grace and the food is to die for! If you're looking for a friendly open mic, Weds. at 7:30 you should check it out. I played for the "spaghetti feed" and then there was reggae/ska dancing upstairs afterwards. A very fun time was had by all.

Just got back from TEU which is the monthly Nuskin training event. They always have a drawing for 5 prizes. I bought $5 worth of tickets....I won 2 prizes worth over $600!!! Over 5,000 tickets were sold. Apparently, the person before me had bought $500 worth and didn't win anything. When I won that first prize, I knew the second was coming. I felt it so I hung out close to the stage and then it happened. What are the odds??? Yeah, I'm on a roll. All kinds of great things are happening, getting hooked into some bigger name folks in the music biz, calls from all over the country for gigs that I didn't expect, great energy when I play, and meeting so many fabulous people. Speaking of fabulous people, you reading this are one of those! Thanks for being on my site and in my life!

My last appearance at Norco I got to pair up with a drummer and bass player spontaneously and we really did well considering we'd never met before! Standing ovation and much appreciated as always. I'll go back in September.

I took a last minute gig last night, Monday, July 6th. to fill in a spot for Sheena Metal. I've done UBG (Universal Bar and Grill) before and it's a fun funky place that's been there a long time. On this night it was mainly locals and they were mainly buzzed. Once we got the boundaries clear...I'm the only one allowed on the stage...I started to have a good time. Then one guy gives me a crisp $100 bill. I'm feeling better and better. So we rocked it good and then he hands me another crisp $100 bill. So I did one 45 minute site on a Monday night in a divy Noho bar, got major kudos from the local crowd and made $200. Life is good!

I did a show last night with the Maurice the Fish crew including Nick Sandy, Susan Renville, Dave Sawyer, and the lovely, talented Ray as well! My "untethered" approach to performing seemed to amaze, excite, or terrify the crowd which is always fun. I had a great time with a great audience sharing the stage with other talented folks and it was a sheer joy. Tacoma is a ways...but it was worth it.

I had the best time at Boulevard Music and the Folk Music Center this weekend and got to share the stage with Cyril Pahinui and Dwain. Cyril's generosity in allowing me the priviledge to perform with him was so amazing. We had an especially good time on Sunday with 100 people and a sold out crowd. There I was, a few doors down from Yanni's where Donald and I had gone for dinner when I was a student at Scripps...that's another story....and the Folk Music Center is still there after all these years and I got to play there. Yes, I am a giddy girl today sitting at the Starbucks in Willows, CA. on my way up to Seattle. With one of my other jobs, I'm going into discussions with Microsoft so this is a big deal. Plus I'm helping people get rid of their wrinkles...But right now, I feel like a very happy musical artist who is in the conversation and still basking in the glow of the responses and the applause. Thanks to Dwain for doing a superb job on percussion, harmonica and ukelele....Thanks to Chelle my long time friend for bringing Cyril into my life .Thank you Cyril for your magnificent talent, bringing slack key into my life, and for giving me an opportunity to be on stage with you. Thanks to all of you most of all for friendships that I treasure.

Last night's gig at Boulevard Music was a blast. Dwain was in rare form playing percussion, harmonica, ukelele and singing and etc. We did some songs with Cyril and got a lot of great applause from the audience. I had one bad moment right before I started thinking.....they really didn't come here to hear this ...(meaning me!) but I dove on in and the water was more than fine...it was fantastic! Lots of people came up to me with compliments and I had a wonderful time. Doing a 40th birthday party tonight and then Claremont with Cyril again tomorrow. Best of all was having my friend Carol there in the front row beaming the whole time and my friend Meloney in the back doing the video taping and cheering me on. What lucky girl I am! Mahalo

I just got back from putting up posters for Cyril Pahinui concerts that I'm opening for the weekend of June 5th. Also snagged a private party in Agoura Hills that weekend so there will be a lot of playing and I can't wait! Opening for Cyril is an honor and I'm looking for some great nights at Boulevard Music and the Folk Music Center in Claremont. Oh yeah....will be playing some songs in slack key too!

Well kids, can't sleep and maybe it's the full moon or I understand Mercury is in retrograde....Never really knew what retrograde meant, but it certainly sounds serious. So far 2009 has pretty much kicked my butt but the one thing that is emerging is a stronger, more passionate, more elated version of my artist's self. I feel like right now I'm in recreation mode (maybe even retrograde??!!) for money, happiness, and life in general. The other night my writer's brain started to tick again. It's been pretty quiet the last year or so with a few songs but not a lot. I'm ready for a lot....yeah....songwriting Gods take heed. Bring it, Baby... I want get back on a roll. For those of you who read this blog and support me in my musical quest, big sloppy hugs tonight from a restless, hungry soul in transition.

It was over 3 hours of driving, 6 hours of waiting, and 90 seconds to lay it down at the Tacoma Convention Center last Sunday. Did I do well? Yes, I did. I was within my 90 seconds doing a 311 song, Whenever I'm Alone With You, and every note was as it should be. However, I was not asked back for the next portion of the program and was kind of bummed about it. However, my goal was to do a great 90 seconds and I was prepared and on target. Guess they missed out not picking me huh!!??!!!

I was accompanied by T. Taclett Brown and we were followed by Doug Smith and his wife Judy. Both a treat to hear. People had a good time, Raine got money for the cause and I had a great time. Also snagged a gig to be back there June 26th. Hope to see some Washington people there this summer!

I had the best time with the coolest, most talented, most generous group of people I've ever met. I had been in touch with Ray, CEO of Maurice the Fish Records, great musician, and all around swell guy for the past few months. Since I'm up in the Northwest, he invited me to a party at his house to meet a bunch of people on the label as well as friends and fans. The food alone was worth the trip and the vibe was all about music, laughter, sharing and talent galore. It was a good 2 hour drive there and I almost flaked thinking I'd be too tired but I'm so glad I made it. The amazing Danielle Agnew who I'd met in LA was the first person I saw which was an added bonus. This lady can sing, play, and take you away to a happy place when she performs. I did a few songs with Russ on percussion and we were very well received. I left feeling I'd made new friends and was singing to myself all the way back to Arlington. Thanks Maurice the Fish Records for a great time!

Lost my day job over a week ago and I knew it was coming but didn't know when. Now the "when" is assured. Have two months severance and some irons in the fire. Feel at once freed up and terrified. This economy is destroying so many people's lives. I'm greatful for my wonderful Honey, Mom's cancer has not spread, my Honda has over 265 thousand miles and going strong, I had a standing ovation at Norco Prison last month, and am sounding better than ever. Will audition for America's got Talent in Seattle next month too. You never know....If I had a dollar for every time I've heard that one I'd be rolling in the dough! Am glad to be healthy and for having all that I have.

What an experience...I needed a room full of men glad to see me and I got two of them. I rocked it big time and they were such great audiences. Will go back again in March. Activities Director, Violetta, even picked me up, fed me, and drove me home. Very rewarding day.

I opted for a last minute gig at the Universal Bar and Grill last night when Sheena Metal had a cancellation. This is a great funky place and I had great response and a wonderful time. It was Sheena's last night, but this girl has so much going on and I hope to do more shows with her including her radio show. It's inspiring to see someone build up as much stuff as she has single handedly.

Back to my Alma Mater with Dwayne on percussion and we had a wonderful time. I always remember that I was sitting out there in the seal pond with my guitar and all I wanted to do was go out and play my music and now I'm back doing it again. The students were a great crowd and they want us back which is always nice. Dawayne saved the day playing and troubleshooting the PA. I swear, there is nothing that man can't do! It's always nice to have someone who can play, sing, drive, pack the car, fix the sound system and provide great company to boot! I'm feeling good and strong and we will continue to rock.

I decided that I need to get back out there to the open mics, schmooze it or lose it and etc. So I found this open mic close to my house, on Olympic and Robertson to be exact at the BP gas station. Yeah, that one that looks all space age and stuff. There in a gravel area with Bamboo I got to sing out and I was pumped...I had a gas...Well, you get the drift. I hate the really snooty open mics with the nasty hosts. But the host here, Heather, was a doll and I had fun and as long as the weather is nice, I'll do it some more. She wants to put on a "ladies night" and have me included. Left with a nice warm fuzzy feeling.

Had a really lovely gig outside on the Terrace at Cottonwood Canyon Winery with Dwain on percussion. With my Taylor guitar and new list of cover songs, we really had a lot of fun and a lot of variety to explore. Attendance wasn't what they had hoped for but we carried on blissfully as per usual. Apparently, other musicians didn't want to play when there was no one outside and the band that was supposed to show yesterday just didn't come at all. I don't get it.....Paying gigs are not easy to come by and one's word is one's word. The upshot is that they were really appreciative of us and we will go back again for more events in the future. I'm in my Motel 6 room writing this and will head back to LA in an hour. Life is good and I'm glad I'm out playing and feeling strong.

Boy, what a trip....Here's the low down. First of all, my Honda Accord with over 258 thousand miles on it performed without a stutter. Motel 6 is still my home away from home as long as I bring my slippers and a big towel. Those tiny thin white things do not do it for me expecially if I need to wash my hair!!! First gig was at Pyramid Ale house in Walnut Creek. Cool outdoor setting but it was really, really hot and my first time playing solo in 3 months so it felt odd not to have Rich there. The crowd varied from table to table...people with kids, people with cocktails, people talking...in short I managed to be as much as I could be to everyone and did a fine job though I was pretty tired. This great guy, Kurt, took my picture and emailed to me and I did have a good time and they loved me. Then it was time to go back..I got lost...probably for about 45 minutes....then I get to my offramp and it's closed due to construction. So I go up the 80 and turn around. Offramp on that side is also closed. Grumpy moi said I've had enough and barreled up the shoulder, through the cones and onto my street. Get into the motel, dying for a shower and walk into the bathroom where I fall on my keister because there's an inch of water all over the floor and seeping into the rug. Call the office....no I don't want to move to an upstairs room at 12:30 AM with all my stuff. And there is a lot of stuff. So we slip and slide into the shower and get clean and go to sleep. Next night is Downtown Joe's in Napa and I rocked out and had a blast. There was a guy there who played the spoons with me and he was amazing. I had a wonderful time and made a lot of tips and with cash in my pocked and a smile on my face headed out the next day for San Luis Obispo. Sunday afternoon for the 4 hour stint at Cisco's. Beautiful setting and I had a great time doing my stuff, covers, making up songs for the kids and etc. Made a lot of tips and got a lot of strokes. Broke a string on the last song and that felt like the best way to finish my little foray back to LA. One really nice lady gave me some earrings she had made for a tip. Cool with beads and elephants. So that's that kids. The saga continues as do I. Appreciate all the kudos along the way and am greatful that I can cruise and play and do the Shakeh show wherever I go.

Have had a great summer with some memorable performances and working hard with Rich to learn a bunch of tunes. Fall is in the air so this pigeon is ready to fly south on Tuesday and do dates in San Luis Obispo, Napa and Walnut Creek on my way back. I know people bitch about I-5, but I love the drive because I zone out and focus on what I want to do once I get wherever I''m going. Somehow, it alls seems so clear out there....

As those of you on my email list know, my song "Brazos De Amor" went out to thousands of instructors all over the world this month via the Zumba Dance Cool Down CD. I got my first email off of my My Space page from an instructor in Texas who loved the song. That felt so good! I'm looking forward to seeing more!

This has been a truly golden time. Rehearsing the duo with Rich, playing some cool outdoor concerts and etc. The Bite of Seattle with the Band is this Sunday and should be a blast. Life is good. :)

I was supposed to come up to Washington the weekend of May 30th. but got really sick. So I had to cancel my gig in Seattle on June 6th. but am up in Arlington now rehearsing with Brad and Rich for the Edmonds Arts Festival this Friday from 7-9 PM. We're going to sound really great and I can't wait to play "Never Been Cool" live with this group as well as the other Shakeh songs. If you're in the Northwest I hope I see you soon!

I played at my first Village fest on Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs and will be back on May 22nd. What I learned is that I need to have someone selling the CDS while I play and get some lighting going on. I had a good time and while on break saw Huell Hauser who does California Gold on KCET. I grabbed a CD and a card and dashed into Ruby's Diner to give it to him. I almost didn't do it but I did. Let's see if we get a song in a segment or a call. He thanked me and said he'd play it in the car and let me know. Made me think of how many times I've dashed after someone and also how many times I decided not to dash. Sometimes I think I live by that line...."You never know"

Dwain and I tore it up at the Calabasas Fine Arts Festival. Highlight of the day was our new fan, Zeke, who came up on stage and played tamborine with us. His enthusiasm and sheer joy took my breath away. Zeke's in a wheel chair living his life and being an enthusiastic, fun, amazing kid. I was more than moved. I was enchanted with him. Yesterday, I had tech hell with my day job and was in such a pissy mood I impressed even myself with my testiness. After that I went to Brotman to volunteer which I do twice a month. I was greeted with chocolate cake which gave me an instant cosmic boost....or maybe it was the sugar....Then I played for the patients and they took me up right out of myself as they always do. I left feeling great and greatful. I find it so easy to get caught up in my complaints and "what ifs" at times and I'm glad there are people like Zeke in the world to show me what's truly important. Have a good day and play a tamborine.

Northwest shows went very well and I've been a booking/gigging fool. Everything from Festivals to State hospitals, to house concerts/private parties, wineries and etc. So far no invitations to do Pole dancing, but the year is still young....Highlights for the summer will include my band playing the Bite of Seattle on July 20th, doing the Edmonds Arts Festival, Calabasas Fine Arts Festival and Coupeville Fine Arts Festival.

I had a great time at PG Speakeasy on Friday night in Duvall. A small but attentive group and the smell of garlic made my night. They cut me loose early because of the snow and it was very hairy getting home, but I did. Paula is a joy and wants me to come back this summer to stroll, play and work my magic outside so we will plan on doing that. Yesterday I played at the CSL in Bothell. Had them up in the aisles singing "Halleluiah Amen" and "I Am A Light". Met some great people and saw other old friends from before. Rev. Suzi Schadle always does such a great talk. I may be doing a house concert this summer for one of the practitioners. PEACE...

Had fun at my Papi's Pizza gig last night but there's over 8 inches of snow on the ground here in Arlington, WA. today. As I was loading the car and getting in to drive to the gig last night it struck me that if I hadn't had a gig to play I'd never even venture forth. As it was, I braved the snow, the cold, the rain, the difficult parking, the loading of the gear in and out, my toes freezing 'cause it was 62 degrees inside the restaurant and of course I had open toed shoes, and etc. Sometimes I do feel like an actual warrior...out to overcome all these little dammitts and the discomfort in the search for that most wonderful of things...playing music and connecting with the audience. I did have a few good moments and will do it again tonight in Duvall. Kudos to musicians everywhere who go out to play live and overcome all of the obstacles that the audience never sees to keep the flame alive. We burn baby, we burn...

It's been a great couple of weeks. Best visual on the trip is: Driving up the 101 and seeing a UPS truck driving through a flock of sheep very carefully on his way back to the highway. He was being very careful and the sheep would part and let him through and then bunch together again. Quite a site of nature and UPS coexisting peacefully! My three dates at McMenamins were truly a blast. Here are the details: First night at Edgefield I'd driven all the way up from Weed, CA. that morning leaving at 7 AM. Stopped in Medford for a few hours to do my day job and then drove the rest of the way. Typically, anytime I go near Portland I get lost and this was no exception. I got there just in time to set up the PA, throw my stuff in the room and myself into the shower and then play the gig. The setting was great. It's a wine cellar with romantic lighting and a long corrider. I was exhausted but the wonderful people in my audience made it all worthwhile and I had a great time. Ended up with a mention from the Oregon Blogger which I know I shared with you last week. Next day I was off for the Grand Hotel. Directions did work this time but the route was very convoluted and interesting. Out in the middle of nowhere it felt like, but a beautiful drive thorough a lot of rural areas and quite enjoyable. I played for a good group of people and did the gamut of spontaneous songs, Shakeh songs, and some standards/old rock 'N roll. Had them up and dancing and it was a high energy night. At the end I went out to the salt pool to soak in the hot bubbly water while the rain came down. Truly a Northwest moment... Third day was a pretty easy drive to Hotel Oregon. Yes, the directions were weird, yes I did get a little lost,but a lovely waitress named Krista from the local Applebee's set me straight and came in with her friends later that night to see me to boot. This is an old hotel and the bar is in the basement. Small, but very friendly and cozy. Lots of hecklers which we always enjoy and lots of high energy music from moi the whole night. A great end to a wonderful experience. My performance at World Cup Espresso and Wine in Seattle was also very enjoyable. Not a lot of people, but a cool venue, very nice owner, Ron, and the sound was great in there. Got a bunch of new names on the email list and will come back again this summer.

Tomorrow I head out for the first leg of my drive on my Northwest Tour staring with 3 dates at McMenamins hotels in Oregon. I've looked forward to this for a long time and now it's finally happening. Will work my day job until 1 PM and then off to Avila Beach to stay with my Cousin and his wife. Second night should be in Roseberg, Oregon at my cheap and cheerful Shady Oaks Motel ($45) and then onto Troutdale...sounds kind of fishy.... I'll keep the blogs coming.

This was a formal event and I made up songs for the girls and traded sets with The Tornadoes who were one of the original surf bands in the 60s and then had a resurgence when their song was played in Pulp Fiction in the 90s. We made a lot of money for the cause and it was a very successful event.

Being back at my alma mater was truly a trip. They have moved the coffeehouse every few years and one student and I figured out that I've played at every single location including the original of course! Estaire and I had them rocking and we had so much fun. Here's a copy of the email from Yvonne:hey shakeh. Shakeh you were awesome at the Motley. I received so many compliments on locating a Scripps graduate that could really rock the crowd all night. You were able to get the crowd involved and I saw lots of smiles in the room. Your voice was definitely one of the better voices that the Motley had heard all year. Keep your eyes on our website motleycoffeehouse.com so that you can get in touch with the future music manager so you can come back to the mot next year!!

***Something magical that happened in the Desert Last Week*** When I was doing my gig at The River shopping/entertainment plaza, I was ready for a break when this big black bird flew into a tree right above me and started to sing and I mean really sing to what I was doing. I kept on for another 20 minutes and alternated singing and then just playing and letting him/her sing. The people in the crowd were amazed as was I . You can't plan something like that even though some people asked me if I had!!!!! Reminds me of the magic that is always there just waiting to happen when you let it every time you play music or create something.

Luck be a Taylor Tonight Last Sunday I went to the Slack Key Festival at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. My dear friend, Chelle, is married to Cyril Pahinui who is the son of the legendary Gabby Pahinui. Cyril is up for his 3rd Grammy this year which is way cool. Chelle and he have been married for 6 months and they live in Hawaii..of course...So I met up with them and worked their booth as well as Makana's booth selling CDS like mad. I walked up to the raffle boxes and saw one for a $2600 G7 Taylor Guitar. I immediately knew that if I entered I would win it. Every once in awhile I do have an intense, exact, true psychic moment. At that exact moment, Chelle comes up and says let me buy you 2 tickets as a belated birthday gift. I filled out the tickets and said, I am winning this. And then I did!!!! It's gorgeous, cocoa brown with a yellow sunburst and abalone trim. I feel so blessed and am just still recovering from the happy shock of winning it. Placements....placements....possibilities..... Zumba Dance with Brazos De Amor should be happening in another month or so. They will be using it on their cool down CD This will be distributed all over the world. yeah! It's a Grind...this has taken awhile....but we're looking at Brazos De Amor and Coffee For One being on their Muzak roster in over 100 stores this spring. I am working on several songs for several different film projects Currently in the studio with Mark Paladino, Bellage and Adriano recording "I Feel The Rain" which I'm submitting to the non profit organization RAINN for usage consideration. They are dedicated to helping victims of domestic abuse and loved the lyric I sent so keep your fingers crossed. The song is turning out great especially after Linda Jackson did some backing vocals the other day. Also, just so you know, on my birthday when we recorded and the session the other day, it was raining both times....Eerie huh? Here's a little lyric from "I Feel The Rain" I feel the rain Thank you for the rain I feel the rain Thank you for the rain I felt nothing for so long Now I feel everything so strong I am not the same Since you brought me rain Living outside myself Feeling like someone else I needed you to call my name Bring me rain Upcoming Northwest Tour Will be crusing back up to the Northwest in March doing dates in Oregon at McMenamins Hotels, Washington venues including P&G Speakeasy in Duvall and the World Cup Wine and Espresso Bar in Seattle. Got to my site and click on Calendar to see complete list of dates. I can use more so if you want to do a house concert or want to suggest a venue bring it. http://www.shakeh.com Sign the guest book too! Playing with the Legendary Tornedos in March March 1st. I am doing a benefit for Rett's at the Ritz Gardens in Whittier. Also on the bill are the legendary Tornedos who started the surf music craze before the Beach Boys even. More details will be forthcoming in future emails. Do you think the bikini will look good with the Taylor? Miracles that have taken place the last few months As you may or may not know, I have been out of a job since October 1st. 2007. During this time finances have been a challenge but everytime I needed something the money would just appear and great things happened. My good friends were feeding me especially Carol and Nick and I just wanted to share a few things here with you. I am starting a new job part time on Monday with Ideal Scanners and Systems which will give me time to still push for my music which has been progressing along quite well for the most part and give me some welcome financial relief. Mystical Soap moment: There is this great guy named Dave who sells soap at the Farmers Markets. I love his soap and had run out during this financially tight time so could not justify purchasing a bar of soap for $6 when I still had some OK.....though not as wonderful...bars of soap at home. But I really did crave the orange one that he has....really wanted it....Anyway, we were talking and he was complaining that he needed a new dimmer nob for his light and it was really bugging him. So I went across the street to Tru Value in Culver City and for $1.50 got him one. I just gave it to him because I wanted to with no strings attached. He was so thrilled and greatful that he said I could have anything I wanted. Now, there are items that are $20 and up on his stand. But I just wanted my orange soap so I got a bar of that and had a lovely giddy bath that night. Bagels.....we crave bagels.... Whenever I'm broke, there tends to be a food that I crave consistently. This time it was bagels. I wanted one almost every day. So I made sure that I scraped the 99 cents together to treat myself to one every day. On this one day I ordered one bagel but he gave me 3 and when I was charged for the three I said, there's been a mistake, I only want one. He gave me all three for 99 cents and I felt like I had the world by the tail. $$ when you need it I had several things come up suddenly like two new tires for the car which took all the money I'd made in the last few days at my odd jobs and yet everytime that happened, other money showed up like magic. Then another odd job would come along so I made exactly what I needed every time. Once unemployment kicked in, I could breathe a little easier. But this pattern has continued to happen. It reminds me that you do get what you need out of the universe. So now what do I do with all of my worry beads???? No panic, God is taking care of me Through these last few months I have been queen of the odd jobs and pushing for gigs and festivals like mad. I've actually been working more hours than when I had a full time job! But I have this newfound faith in who I am and what I can do and the absolute knowledge that God is watching over me and is guiding all of this. I've always been one not to bother God too much since I figure he has a lot on his plate and only really dig into prayer when things are really bad or to say thank you. But through all of this when I was getting ready to panic I just knew that it was all going to be taken care of and all I needed to do was keep reaching and believing that all was well. And it has been. I've never been laid off of a job before or collected unemployment until these past few months and you know what, I have to say it's all made me grow and stretch and get stronger and happier than I've ever been before. Final words See, I told you I had a lot to say this time! Let me end with a thank you to you for being on my list and following this artist on her path and let me say that I am greatful to have you here. 159 CDS Sold so far.....Valentines Day is coming so get one for someone you love or someone who needs to receive some love!

This is an email I sent out last week and pretty much sums up a lot of what's going on recently with me. Luck be a Taylor Tonight Last Sunday I went to the Slack Key Festival at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. My dear friend, Chelle, is married to Cyril Pahinui who is the son of the legendary Gabby Pahinui. Cyril is up for his 3rd Grammy this year which is way cool. Chelle and he have been married for 6 months and they live in Hawaii..of course...So I met up with them and worked their booth as well as Makana's booth selling CDS like mad. I walked up to the raffle boxes and saw one for a $2600 G7 Taylor Guitar. I immediately knew that if I entered I would win it. Every once in awhile I do have an intense, exact, true psychic moment. At that exact moment, Chelle comes up and says let me buy you 2 tickets as a belated birthday gift. I filled out the tickets and said, I am winning this. And then I did!!!! It's gorgeous, cocoa brown with a yellow sunburst and abalone trim. I feel so blessed and am just still recovering from the happy shock of winning it. Placements....placements....possibilities..... Zumba Dance with Brazos De Amor should be happening in another month or so. They will be using it on their cool down CD This will be distributed all over the world. yeah! It's a Grind...this has taken awhile....but we're looking at Brazos De Amor and Coffee For One being on their Muzak roster in over 100 stores this spring. I am working on several songs for several different film projects Currently in the studio with Mark Paladino, Bellage and Adriano recording "I Feel The Rain" which I'm submitting to the non profit organization RAINN for usage consideration. They are dedicated to helping victims of domestic abuse and loved the lyric I sent so keep your fingers crossed. The song is turning out great especially after Linda Jackson did some backing vocals the other day. Also, just so you know, on my birthday when we recorded and the session the other day, it was raining both times....Eerie huh?

Yesterday was my birthday and I spent most of it in the Studio recording "I Feel The Rain". Ironically enough, it actually was raining like crazy in LA. We consider this to be a good sign. I put out my annual email requesting Birthday Kudos and got such a wonderful outpouring of reponses that it made my head spin. The amazing thing is hearing from people on the list that I may have met only once at a show and finding out they love the CD and play it all the time and how my performance affected them. I get so caught up in trying to get to the next "thing" and this reminds me that wherever I am and whenever I'm making music, there is someone listening. So now that you''re reading this, please know that it means so much to me having you here and I belive that that some wonderful things will be happening in 2008 for you and for me. Thanks for being part of my music, my life, and my joy on this crazy journey of mine.

This has been an amazing time. My former company is jacking me around with my unemployment, I had to put two new tires on the car which felt like a major financial set back, and I wake up at 3 AM sometimes concerned about the future. Then there's the amazing stuff that's happening with getting a lot of wonderful response on my music, scheduling in gigs like crazy and seeing so many opportunities out there. Plus my wonderful friends feeding me and calling me with support, helping me learn cover songs so I can extend the range of what I do, and being there for me. Tonight I do my first night at Davio's and am looking forward to it. Will be there every Wednesday in November. Ciao!

This past month has been amazing with all kinds of wonderful music opportunities coming up. Rusty of Rusty Hicks Entertainment got me into the McMenamins chain to do 3 dates in March, I will be doing a residency in Westminster at this hot Italian Restaurant called Davio's every Wednesday night in November, I have a few dates in December including some Fridays at West Coast Pizza and Pasta in Moorpark, and am exploring lots of opportunities for festivals and events. Also looking forward to playing the Rescue Me Benefit and APLA Aides Marathon Benefit in November. Being unemployed means I'm scraping for money. But I feel so great finally digging in and working for myself and my music that it's quite a wonderful time.

We were dancing in the street, getting press, TV news coverage and doing good things for the little critters. Got some pictures to post on the website and I will be doing another benefit for Rescue Me in Brea on November 17th.

This is always so much fun! I think I was sounding extra good with my big PA, the wireless and was inspired by the panoramic views and the cute boys and the sunshine and...and...what can I say....one of my favorite gigs to do!

What a great night! Got to see old friends Lisa Nemzo and Debbie Alfaro and had a great time playing my songs with Dwain Roque on percussion. Will post some photos when I get them from LAWIM.

My first time and kind of a last minute gig to add in but it was really fun and I had some great people in the crowd. Will do it again maybe around Thanksgiving if I'm in the Desert at that time.

Came back from Italy last night and this morning I got laid off of my day job. Never a dull moment....But I'm glad it's over and will be putting a lot more effort into my music so look out world, Shakeh is on the move. Bring it.....

So Nero fiddled while Rome burned and I rocked out with Damn Good Question while the fire lingered near Big Bear. We all make history in our own way...Hostess Kym Chartrand put on a great spread with killer chile, cornbread, quesadillas and chocolate cake for desert. I traded off sets with the band and a great time was had by all dancing under the stars and grooving on the Shakeh sounds. I made some great new friends and contacts and our back drop was a trailer with a for sale sign on it....Perfect...

There is no better moment than when I look up and see long time fans Bob and Terri Nicum in the audience. They have seen me through all of my CDs and ups and downs and it feels like family. The people at Long Beach Borders were really nice and I had a great time. Got to play my new song "I Feel The Rain" which went over great so it was wonderfu.

I had the best time. Great audience and though I didn't particularly like not having a PA in there, I'm not exactly a shrinking violet so things turned out great. A lot going on with me now in terms of changes, etc. will keep you posted

Today, about an hour ago, I ,learned of the loss of my friend, Shake' Rose. She had been battling lung cancer for a long time and I knew she was nearing the end. I had planned on stopping by on my way back to LA this Saturday to see her. I did write her a letter that I sent telling her how much she meant to me which she got a few days before. I'm so glad I wrote and sent that when I did. At this moment, the tears won't come....I'm in a place where I feel greatful for the friendship and clear that she knew how much she meant to me. You can never tell the people you love enough times how much they mean to you. I know she's in a good peaceful place and I will miss her terribly. But I'm so lucky that I had her as a friend and for that I'm very thankful.

Ok....so I'm not an R&B Diva...but I did some great work on a guy's tracks there. Tracks were pumping and even though my groove was a little off of his groove 'cause us Armenians have only so much legitimate soul to give....the combination of my vocal tone and conviction alongside the rhythmic patterns he laid down were happening. It was some great stuff!

This was a lovely wedding complete with a bride, a groom, me making up continuous songs on the spot as well as singing a song written from the groom's notes for the bride. The kids had a great time running around,the groom ended up in the pond, and it was quite a grand day with me running around doing my songs on the spot for most of the day and MCing the proceedings. Got some referrals and life is good.

This was a red letter day. I performed at the minimum security unit at Monroe Prison outside on a glorious day on a cement slab with a fabulous view of the valley, mountains and sunset. The air balloons just added to the magical, surreal feeling. Then there was of course the totally great audience who I rocked, rolled, and made songs up for. They were very appreciative and it was a fantastic experience which I will repeat at a later date either solo or with some other players.

This was the coolest little room with a balcony and I had about 15 people. Made up songs for everyone who wanted one about themselves and they were a really good audience. One thing I've noticed is that older people do like to rock and they prefer upbeat rather than mellow material. One problem has been sound levels since one person will think it's too loud and the other, who's practically deaf, wants you to turn up more! It was a really fun time.

Last night was mixing "When Angels Pray" at Fastback Studios in Seattle. I think we're there but need to rest my ears and listen again to be sure. Doing an audition on Sunday for the 4Culture Arts commission in Seattle with Dave Bishop on Bass and Ken French on drums. I'll let you know how it goes!

A wonderful concert with moi playing with Tacket on percussion for the first time and he was adorable and sonically awesome. We shared the stage with Aeolian, Morfius, Handful of Colors and Orbo and the Long Shots doing their first US show. They are in from Norway and are recording at Electro Kitty in Seattle. I go in later this week to mix "When Angels Pray" and life is good!

Well, we had a bit of a rough start. The weather was cool and there was a lot of rain happening and then my guitar would not put out a signal at all. Ironically, it did this same thing last year at this same gig!!! So the sound man ran home and got me his guitar. Bottom line, we had a great time, not a lot of people but those that were there were very appreciative, they'd wanted me to play later so starting a little late was fine. Plus I did a lot of customized songs for the kids and the colorful locals including Bobby and Chainsaw...don't ask....Special thanks to Paul the sound guy for great sound and an instrument!!!! We look forward to next year's Jubilee Days. I'll bring a spare guitar just in case...:)

This was an email that I sent out on 7/7/07 'Cause I figured it had to be a lucky day to expound on one's blessings. I titled it "Shakeh Musings 7/7/07 Hi There, I just figured that since it was the 7th. day of the 7th. month on the year 2007 that it was time to take a look at what's been going on and acknowledge how lucky I am and share that with you if you are so inclined. If you're in LA or Washington or points between, I want to thank you for being on my list and supporting me and your nice emails, comments, buying my CDs, etc. throughout the years. When I first came to LA in my Plymouth Arrow with my sleeping bag, I had a plan and had given myself a month to execute that....The plan.....To be a success in the music business within the month. I was going to get some songs cut by other artists and then pursue my own artist plans. Many years later, 3 full length CDS, 2 EPS, many demos, many gigs played between San Diego and Seattle, lots of Motel 6s, lots of Borders Books and Music stores, a lot of mistakes, millions of calls, lots of disappointments, victories with radio play, lots of renewed hopes, lots of songs, lots of lessons, lots of odd jobs, many moments of doubt and insecurity, many moments of elation while performing or writing or getting a really great comment from someone.....I realize that I am very lucky. While no one has come along to "discover" me and give me what I craved as my big chance, I know that everything I have done has made me into the artist that I am. I recently did a band gig on the 4th with a great group of musicians, Rich Rorex on guitar, Dave Bishop on bass, and Ken French on drums. And I got some wonderful video footage of that. I also had done a solo gig some months back and got video footage on that as well. And you know what was amazing....watching myself and seeing the presence, the vitality, hearing the energy and how the audience responded to me. That person was me on stage with the wind blowing through my hair, dancing with my guitar, doing my stories and the look on my face...I realized that I am the artist I wanted to be. I am home. I have arrived. I have succeeded. For all the sleepless nights when my subconscience was saying "You haven't done enough, you're getting older and you have no cuts, you're just not good enough period." And the comments from people that haunted me like "Why don't you go home and have a baby." "I only work with world class singer/songwriters and you are not world class" "You haven't found your audience at this point, what makes you think you ever will?" The moment I saw the video of that girl with her guitar and the look on her face and heard the audience cheering and knew the connection was there, I realized that I'm done listening to those voices in my head. I am the artist I wanted to be. I'm going forward and I have an amazing adventure ahead of me. I have made some great new connections with Rusty Hicks Entertainment and other new venues and individuals for house concerts and performance opportunities as a solo artist and with the band. My fesivals in the Northwest have been great and really energized me. If you go to http://www.rustyhicksentertainment.com you can see some photos of the July 4th performance. My last CD produced by Carey Lewis sounds so wonderful and I'm so proud of it. http://www.cdbaby.com/shakeh3 There are so many people who have helped me over the years and you know who you are. I am so greatful to all of you. So thank you for being on my mailing list on this journey of mine and be aware that this artist is looking forward to an amazing year coming up and feels very, very lucky to have travelled the roads that I have travelled to arrive here with you, today, lucky July 7, 2007. Yours, Shakeh

I'm just about done recording "When Angels Pray" at Fastback studios in Seattle with Rich Rorex on guitar and bass and Brad McCrae on percussion. Me, I sing, wrote the song and played acoustic guitar. Will mix it soon. You can go to the blog for fastback and see my photo there. http://www.fastbackstudios.net/blog/

Finally got this up and I will be putting in regular blogs as we go along. Stay tuned!!