It’s Time to Rock with Some Familiar Faces and Roll A Few New Bands Too

April 2, 2021April 12, 2021 Tracey Stones2 Comments

Catching Up with Ryan Rubich

I remember the day that Ryan Rubich signed up and made a commitment to his life in music. We were chatting in a Jacksonville restaurant when he made the declaration of his road ahead. I simply sat there and encouraged the young lad. I helped him write a bio and booked a couple of community gigs for his duo to get polished. It was an exciting time in his life, there was definitely a fire ablaze in his soul and it was radiating out from his fingertips.

I met Rubich at an open mic night at Crystal Coast Brewery in Atlantic Beach that was hosted by Tiffany Elaine. After hearing him jam a couple of times, at a few open mics hosted by Elaine, I invited the slinger to come to Fairfield Harbour for a show which would mark the first time I saw Rubich live his original beat keeper, Jared Cain. I had met Cain years before jamming in a couple of different projects with Irish Robinson. The duo played two shows for me. Once during the winter months, the duo jammed at The Community Center (above) and the second time they returned in the Summer for a show at Red Sail Park (below).

It wasn’t long after those days that Rubich got serious about his career and turned his full attention to his career. This focus has paid off and paved a way for the singer-songwriter to stay busy with music. Even during the down days of Covid-19, the stringer and singer compiled, recorded and released his debut EP. After catching Rubich at a couple recent shows, I touched base with him on messenger and asked about the new release.

I started with the basics. “Tell me about the new release,” I said, “When did it come out?”

Rubich replied, “Released November 20th, 2020. ‘Find Your Way‘.” Who produced and recorded the disc? “Mike Corrado produced/recorded it at his studio Grunt Tunes it was mixed by Tommy Brothers at Shoreline Studios in Wilmington. We sent it out to the west coast to be mastered at moontreemastering.” Now the songs are available on all platforms for fans to enjoy.

After listening to his new EP, I asked the artist about songwriting, I was curious if the music came first or the lyrics. Rubich said, “Personally I write a lot of music pretty easily but have to dig for a concept or idea about lyrics. Sometimes I see where the vibe of the music takes the lyrics or for it to inspire an idea. It’s something I’m still a novice at, but learning more day by day.”

I heard a rumor that he was working on a side project lately and the best I can say about that is the rumors are true. Rubich has teamed up with a new band. He will be the lead guitar player for a New Bern-based band with some popular players. The new five-piece rocking beach band will be rolling out in the weeks ahead. I have another interview in the works with the frontman for that band project. So be sure to keep it here to catch the waves to the beach.

Besides working things out with the new project, in rehearsal each week, Rubich says, “I’ll still be playing full-time solo, and I am lining up gigs with my band RUBICH’S CUBE. In fact, he wanted me to tell everyone, “We have a gig April 29th @ Dukenfields, Jacksonville, NC 10 pm – 1 am. That gig will feature Mike Sandvig on bass and Jacob Yepez on drums. Stay tuned for more band dates with things opening up!”

To keep up with the Jacksonville based guitar player Like his page Ryan Rubich Music Facebook. For those interested in checking out his music start here and pick your favorite platform: Find Your Way

Big News From Bryan Mayer

I caught up with Bryan Mayer a couple of weeks ago when he was performing live at Tap That Craft and Wine Bar. The local country crooner has been keeping busy with solo shows during the pandemic days of Covid-19. In fact he has a few shows coming up along the Crystal Coast in the days ahead. You can catch him at The Saltwater Grill in Swansboro, next Friday, April 9, 2021. On Sunday he will be rocking fans at Gaffer’s in Emerald Isle from 2-5 pm.

Earlier this week Mayer made a big announcement regarding a solo show coming up next month. Bryan Mayer will open for country music super star Tracy Lawrence when his tour stops in New Bern to perform at the new Maola Events Center. To get your tickets in advance of the May 8th performance follow this link: Tracy Lawrence Tickets.

I will be taking to Mayer next week about this amazing opportunity as well as find out what else is happening in the singer’s life these days. He really is chock full of good news with lots happening on the horizon.

Big Sam At Harbour Pointe For Supper Sounds

Sam Lewis was our guest performer for the dinner crowd last Thursday evening at Harbour Pointe Bar and Grille. Lewis was a big hit with the residents that enjoy live music as they dine.

Sam Lewis is a very busy bee on our local music scene. When he is not offering a solo show, he plays with a band, and sometimes he jams as a duo. But that’s not where it ends. In fact, his band excursions keep him busy most weekends but during the week, he hosts open mic nights and encourages others to sing while hosting karaoke.

Starting next week Big Sam takes his big Karaoke Act to Sara’s Big Apple. All are encouraged to come out and sing. It is good therapy to express yourself through music so, come hungry, dine in, and sing out loud! Sounds like a great weekly option for the Broad Creek Road neighborhoods.

Here is the itinerary for Lewis in the weeks ahead:

•Thurs 4/1• Sweet Edventures Dessert Bar Swansboro KARAOKE 7-10p

•Sat 4/3• The Growler Bar Emerald Isle FULL BAND 7-10p

•Sun 4/4• New Covenant Church EASTER SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:30a

•Weds 4/7•Ducks Grille & Bar SOLO 6:30-9:30p

•Thurs 4/8•Sara’s Big Apple Pizza KARAOKE 6-8p

•Friday 4/9• BrÜtopia DUO/w Pretty Ricky 7-10p

•Sat 4/10• Bogue Sound Distillery DUO/w Pretty Ricky 7-10p

•Sun 4/11•Bake, Bottle & Brew-Willy Nilly Warehouse Solo 4-7p

•Weds 4/14• Ducks Grille & Bar SOLO 6:30-9:30p

•Thurs 4/15• Sara’s Big Apple Pizza KARAOKE 6-8p

•Fri 4/16• Salty Air Open Market DUO 6-9pm

•Sat 4/17• Rookies Sports Bar FULL BAND 7-10p

•Weds 4/21• Ducks Grille & Bar-SOLO- 6:30-9:30 pm

•Thurs 4/22• Sara’s Big Apple Pizza -KARAOKE- 6-8 pm

•Sun 4/25• Carolina Home and Garden DUO 1-3p

•Weds 4/28• Ducks Grille & Bar 6:30-9:30 SOLO

•Thurs 4/29• Sara’s Big Apple Pizza 6-8p -KARAOKE-

•Fri 4/30• The Office, Kinston DUO 7-10p

Before leaving his last gig I asked same to offer up an original song. He obliged with this:

The Little Things by Sam Lewis

Matt Riddle Live At The Brown Pelican

Matt Riddle is a Marine currently serving and living in New Bern. Just before press time, I reached out to Riddle on Facebook to learn more about him. I asked how long he has been playing? “I’ve been playing and singing roughly 27 years off and on. My mother introduced me to all kinds of music, I believe that in order to play good music you have to appreciate all types.” He definitely spreads out, offering everything from country to rock and more. When I walked in he was offering a rare cover of Peter Gabriel’s Sledgehammer.

I asked the stringer if he is from here, though I guess otherwise, he kindly replied, “I’m a transplant from Texas, I’m currently still in the Marine Corps, but my family and I have had a house here in New Bern since 2011 and we plan on staying in the area after I retire.”

“I do write my own music, I just haven’t performed it live too many times.” I can’t wait to see him again and request some original material for us.

As for gigging and looking for work playing, this entertainer says, “I’m always looking for more gigs that can fit into my busy schedule, if it works then I will play.” Riddle adds, “I love the way that music makes people feel, it is the outward expression of the soul.” As for reaching out and securing a date he says, “If anyone wants to book me they can reach me on here or by email at riddle1171@yahoo.com.

Amazing Lounge Lizards Groove Us Into the Weekend

I caught a sample of The Amazing Lounge Lizards while they were in town last Friday. This fun five piece party band hails from Raleigh and keeps busy around the Triangle area. I learned that have been rocking the scene with this current line up for just about a year.

One thing for sure they are full of energy and offer a great variety of popular party songs that span the decades from the ‘70s through today.

This weekend the band will bring the fun and funk to The Real McCoy’s tomorrow night. Music starts at 6 pm. To follow the band and keep up on all their dates like them on Facebook here: The Amazing Lounge Lizards.

Joe Brown & The Band Take Tap That

Our own local groove master, Joe Brown brought his band to Tap That last Friday to usher us into the weekend.

This would make for the second time I enjoyed Joe Brown, frontman and entertainer extraordinaire. For nearly five years I have been shooting pics and filing Brown behind the keyboard.

The first time I caught him front and center without a row of ivories at his fingertips, it was New Year’s Eve, on the very same stage. For that gig, he was backed by two keyboard players and the band. Last Friday he was backed by only one keyboard player. The popular Brandon Shamar kept the keys 🎹 grooving in time to the beats. Offering the backbeats for the night was the incredible Jasmine Best on drums. Also sitting in that night was guitar player Chris Campbell, who shared some pretty blues grooves and turned up the funk too when it was time.

We were all there to celebrate the front man himself, as Joe Brown finally turned 21 on March 22! Repetition is an important part of being a music maker and turn 21 over and over again keeps you young! Keep celebrating! Cheers!

Currently the band as no upcoming events to share, but keep it here as I am sure that is about to change with so many things returning to normal.

Adam Hill Music Monthly Rewind

I don’t know if I can really explain it, but when I tell you that music is powerful and impatctual upon the soul, I think of the movement my own soul when exposed to some Adam Hill music.

I can say this, I have had a love affair with music for as long as Adam Hill has existed. And for as long as I have been paying attention, one thing is true…Sometimes you come upon an artist that stops you dead in your tracks and makes you pay attention to music on a whole new level. That is exactly what Hill did to me.

I stopped out to check out the band Solid Ground and that is when Hill became a focal point of my music affections, not long after he offered this awesome version of Jimi Hendrix’s Voodoo Chile on stage at Jean’s in Havelock.

Was he the first? No! I have been at this longer than Adam has been making music. Being a decade older than the slinger is my only advantage to that equation. But I met Hill in the summer of 2016 and have been making my way to his shows on the regular because my soul always feels better after such a music experience.

Moving On By Adam Hill

My favorite music is Adam Hill. To be quite honest, I love original music. If I want to hear popular well-known songs, I can turn on the radio. But when I meet new players, it intrigues me to listen to their souls. Music is their portrait. They paint their canvas with music notes and phrasings from the depths of their spirit in the hopes of touching beating hearts and inspiring minds.

Over the years I have watched Hill offer many of his own songs and that is always the highlight of his shows for me. I am moved by the music as much as the lyrical messages. It’s clear to me that Hill survives the pains of living through shredding six strings and expressing his hurts through song. Many of his songs offer insight to the afflictions and struggles of life. He deals with life on his own terms and helps many others do the same with his music.

If you want to get your full of some Adam Hill Music, you have plenty of chances this weekend. The busy slinger has four shows booked over the next couple days. His first show is tomorrow morning, when he provides the music for the Annual Beauty and The Beast Car Show taking place in the Walmart parking lot on Yopp Road in Jacksonville, NC . The car show kicks off at 10 am and music is offered 11 am- 2 pm. Tomorrow evening the stringer will be singing at Crossroads Bar and Grill in Seven Springs, NC with music being served 10 pm til closing. Hill also has two shows on Sunday mentioned below in the weekly rundown. Keep reading to find out where you can catch him this Easter Sunday.

Carolina Swamp Dogs Bring Their Blues To Town

It was a Sunday Funday with The Carolina Swamp Dogs last week at the Brown Pelican. The Blues Duo from the Jacksonville area brought their unique blues offerings to the Dirty Bird for a few hours of afternoon fun.

I met this band at Annual Seafood Festival in Morehead City back in 2017. At the time they were the featured blues trio on the bill that year.

Carolina Swamp Dogs, when we met in 2017, was a trio of retired Marines with 85 years of service to our country now playing the blues.

Since those days, the band has slimmed down to a fully function duo featuring Gary Oles and Tommy Langlois.

Carolina Swamp Dogs Rock Red Sail Park

Over the years these Dogs have been my go-to when I need to fill a bill with the blues. They are good friends and talented blues musicians. I love how they bring education of the blues to the forefront of their show. The blues is our legacy, a part of our National history nobody better try to erase.

Both players retired from the Marine Corps and have kept in touch through the magic of music. They try to jam a few times a month but don’t keep a crazy schedule. For those looking to catch some authentic blues offered in a unique way, be sure to catch their show while you can. Our beloved, Gary has been bitten by the love bug and is changing things up in the hopes of settling down in Florida later this year. He and his fiancé Kathy Knowles are relocating to Orlando later this Summer, which means you only have a few more opportunities to catch this duo in the weeks ahead.

Next week they will be grooving in the beer garden at Wrightsville Beach Brewery in Wilmington, on Saturday, April 10 with tunes being poured out from 3-6 pm. The following week you can catch them back at The Brown Pelican when they bring their jams on Saturday, April 17, 7-10 pm. Also on the radar is Huffman Vineyards on Saturday, May 22, 7-10 pm and In June they have a gig on the books at Nick’s Blacksheep Tavern. Music plays 9 pm- 12 am.

Back To The Program @ The Brown Pelican

More signs of normalcy appear to be on the horizon for our friends at the Brown Pelican as they adapt to being back in action and open for business after 50 weeks of suffering from the shut down.

Starting this week they will resuming their regular routine of hosting a Monday evening blues jam with your host Big Jim Kohler and Friends. Music is offered 7-10 pm and all are welcome to join the fun.

Each Tuesday night Doc Paul will host a songwriter’s night where two acts will be highlighted each week. Music plays 7-10 pm. Come hear the latest and greatest players on the scene.

Thursday’s welcome the return of Open Mic Night hosted by local slinger Charlie Duzan. This open mic welcomes all that wish to join the fun with music being shared 7-11 pm.

Of course, The Brown Pelican is always your local music stop on weekends with awesome acts on the floor, front and center each weekend. Catch a show any Friday 7-10 pm or Saturday 7-10 pm. Looking ahead, Owner of the Dirty Bird Heather Haiss is interested in using Sundays to help those in need. For the year that her business was closed Big Jim hosted blues events each Sunday to keep the lights bill paid. With Haiss having survived her darkest days she hopes to continue helping others in need as she rebounds from her difficult year of closures. Keep it here to find out who she

At A Glance Music

by Susan Bugham

At a glance music for this week, disclaimer below.

Friday 4/2
Afreyed Knot 8-11 at Blackbeards, New Bern

Chuck Phillips Band 6:30-9:30pm at Backwater Jack’s, Washington

Eli Craig Band 8-11pm at The Doghouse Tavern, Ayden

Monterio Experience Trio 8:30pm-12 at Market St Pub, Washington

Tim Bivans 8-11 at AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville

Jamie Pridgen Band 10pm-1am at The Office, Kinston

Roy and DC Linton 7-10 at Ribeyes, Washington

2Digh4 10pm-1 at The Buccaneer Music Hall, Greenville

Singer showcase 7:30 pm, Erin Lewis, Sam Weatherly, and Joe Shingera at Molly’s Café, Uptown Greenville

Sat 4/3
Side Trac Band 8-11 at AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville

Eli Craig Band 8:30-12 at Market St Pub, Washington

Psylo Joe 7-10 pm at Local Oak Brewing Co., Winterville

John Williams 6:30-9:30 at Backwater Jack’s, Washington

Chris Hagan Band 10pm-1am at The Office, Kinston

Roy Stewart 7-10 at The Plank Steakhouse, Farmville

Mikele Buck Band 8-11 at Blackbeards, New Bern

Open Jam 6:30 hosted by John Williams at Backwater Jacks, Washington

Justin Anderson 10pm-1 at Buccaneer Music Hall, Greenville

Cooper Greer 7-10 pm at Ribeyes, Washington

Sun 4/4
John Benson 2-5 pm at Backwater Jack’s, Washington

Tues 4/6
Brian Burke 7-9 at AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville

Every Mon
Rhythm & Grooves open mic with John Williams 7:30 AJ McMurphy’s, Greenville

Open mic 8:30pm with Jared Gonzalez at The Buccaneer Music Hall , Greenville

Every Wed
Open Mic with JT at Molly’s Community Cafe, Uptown Greenville

3rd Wed of month
Open mic with Chuck Phillips 6pm at Parleys Sip and Steam , Washington

Every other Wed
Open mic with Joe Shiranga 7-10 at Nauti Dog Brewing Co., Winterville

Every other Thurs. Brian Burke hosts open mic 6:30-9:30 pm at Backwater Jack’s starting April 8, 2021.

Disclaimer: Please note that musicians and times are subject to change. Please call the venue in advance for confirmation. While I don’t know or support all of these musicians I do recommend these venues.

Thank you for supporting live music.

More Live Music Options

Cruisin’ County by County

In the hopes of always keeping things fresh and new, here is a new rundown of live music for the days ahead, county by county.

Beaufort County

*****

Friday, April 2, 2021

The Chuck Phillips Band will be offering the grooves this Friday at Backwater Jack’s Tiki Bar and Grill in Washington from 7-10 pm.

Roy Stewart & DC Linton team up to bring the music to the Angus Room at Ribeyes of Washington. Music is served 8-11 pm.

*****

The Market Street Pub welcomes the Monterio Experience Trio. 7:30 pm. $7 cover

******

Saturday, April 3, 2021

*****

Cooper Greer will be on hand in the Angus Room, to provide Saturday evening entertainment at Ribeyes of Washington. Music is on the menu from 7-10 pm.

*****

Pamela Cox and J. B. Mayes will be the featured live music at Captain Cooks this Saturday night! Everyone is invited to come early for a good dinner and stay late for the music Music is offered 7-11 pm.

*****

Eli Craig Band will provide the music this Saturday, from the stage at Market Street Pub in downtown Washington, NC. Music plays 8:30pm – midnight. Make sure you have your dancing shoes on!

*****

Sunday, April 4, 2021

Come enjoy live music this Sunday with John Benson serving sounds, 2-5 PM at Backwater Jack’s Tiki Bar and Grill

*****

Thursday, April 8, 2021

Brian Burke will host Open Mic at Backwater Jack’s in Washington 6:30 – 9:30 pm.

Brunswick County

Friday, April 2, 2021

Scott Riley will perform tomorrow evening at The Joyce. At press time the event said that the music plays from 6-9 pm.

*****

Saturday, April 3, 2021

The Duke of Uke David Pray will perform live this Saturday at The Joyce from 6-9 pm.

Carteret County

Friday, April 2, 2021

Barefoot Wade is on the schedule for Friday night fun at Bogue Sound Distillery. Check them out offering the sounds from 7-10 pm. Outside, enjoy some tasty creations for dinner at McGrady Grill Food Truck.

*****

Johnny Williams will perform live at Promise’ Land Market this Friday, with music being offered 8-11 pm.

******

Liquid Pleasure will be rocking the coast this Friday at Jack’s Waterfront Bar. Music starts at 8 pm.

******

Ed Prophet will serve up the sounds at Boro Bar & Restaurant this weekend from 7-10 pm.

*****

Hank Barbee will be at Carolina Home & Garden sharing music 6:30-9:30 pm.

******

Gabe Stillman is performing at Gaffer’s two nights this weekend. First show this Friday with tunes being shared 7-10 pm.

******

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Mystic Brewing Cedar Point will host The Mad Fiddler, Jason Addams, sharing tunes from 7-10 pm.

******

Justin Castellano has two shows this coming Saturday. First he will perform live at Carolina Home and Garden Saturday afternoon 1-4 pm

Later that night the stringer and singer will be on site with LaCocina Del Coqui Food Truck
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
at Bogue Sound Distillery.

*****

Dos Eddies will provide the music at Boro Restaurant 7-10 pm.

*****

Gabe Stillman is back for his final show at Gaffer’s this Saturday with tunes being shared 7-10 pm.

*****

Paul Brion will provide the songs for this Saturday at Promise Land Market, with tunes being shared from 8-11 pm.

*****

Party song players, Push Play out of Raleigh will be rolling to the coast, to deliver the fun to the party-goers at Jack’s Waterfront Bar. Music plays 8-11:30 pm.

Craven County

*****

Friday, April 2, 2021

Paul Piccard sings his songs this Friday 7-10 pm at The Brown Pelican.

*****

Tan Sanders ushers us into the weekend with a performance this Friday at BrÜtopia 7-10 pm.

*****

Afreyed Knot will make their New Bern debut on the deck at Blackbeard’s Triple Play. This party band out of is popular on the Greenville scene. Come groove with them from 7:30-11 pm.

*****

Third Degree Bern bring the music to usher us into the weekend 8-11 pm at Tap That Craft Beer and Wine Bar.

*****

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Signature Blend will be rocking The Garage this Saturday. Come enjoy music and your favorite beer from 7-10 pm.

*****

Bridge Atlantic will bring the full band to Tap That Craft Beer & Wine Bar this Saturday 8 pm.

******

Ashton Ward will provide the songs this Saturday on the floor at The Brown Pelican 7-10 pm.

*****

Mikele Buck Band comes to town with their long list of country tunes to groove you this Saturday night, on the deck at Blackbeard’s Triple Play Restaurant. Music is offered 7:30-11 pm.

Johnston County

Donnie Howard (above). Music will be on tap this Friday at Deep River Brewing Company, 700 W Main St, Ste 102 Clayton, NC. Live music this Saturday by Ashlar Sargent Music (below), will be the featured entertainment. All music is offered from 6-9 pm.

Lenoir County

Jamie Pridgen Band will provide the live music offerings at The Office Kinston this Friday night. This Saturday you can catch the Chris Hagen Band. The bands will take the stage from 10 PM – 1 AM to bring the rock and country favorites to light and life. $5.00 cover charge at the door.

Mecklenburg County

Friday, April 2, 2021

7 PM
Live Music by
Piedmont Social House
Join us for Live Music on the Patio
Live music is rain or shine. No cover charge!

New Hanover County

Friday, April 2, 2021

Stefan Edward will provide the tunes tonight at Flytrap Brewing. Music will be served from 6-9 pm.

*****

Brett and Nimara provide the live music at Edward Teach Brewing with songs being shared 7-10 pm.

*****

The Rip Chord Band will be on stage at Bourbon St Wilmington, NC with music playing 9 pm until midnight.

*****

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Cary Benjamin will be sharing sounds this Saturday afternoon 2-5 PM, for the early show at Bourbon St. Wilmington. Later that evening you can enjoy the music of 80s Unleashed Band sharing tunes from 9 pm until midnight.

*****

L Shape Lot

Alex and Eric pick and pluck under the big old oaks on Saturday, April 3 from 3-6 pm!
Wrightsville Beach Brewery.

*****

Come out and enjoy a cold beer and the cool grooves of Medicated Sunfish this Saturday at Edward Teach Brewing 7-10 pm.

*****

Sunday, April 4, 2021

This Sunday at Bourbon St., Wilmington Chris Pearson & Jim will offer the music from 1-4 pm and Tyrek will be live later in the day serving Easter dinner sounds from 6:30-9:30 pm.

*****

Enjoy the sounds of Emily Roth this Easter Sunday 4-7 pm at Edward Teach Brewing

Pender County

Thursday, April 1, 2021

Russ Linsey will perform tonight 6-9 pm at UnWINEd.

******

Friday, April 2, 2021

Live music by The Graes at UnWINEd will walk us into the weekend this Friday 6-9 pm.

******

Saturday, April 3, 2021

There are two shows scheduled each Saturday. This week you can catch Hayden Laeknir from 1-4 pm. Later that afternoon you can catch Mike McManus from 6-9 pm on the patio. UnWINEd is a great place to sip coffee or wine, grab a sweet treat or just relax with friends and enjoy music on the deck. They support live music seven days a week, featuring at least eight shows each week.

*****

Sunday, April 4, 2021

Ryan Rubich will perform this Sunday, at Salty Turtle Beer Company, offering tunes from 4-7 PM.

*****

Cayle Fall will provide the entertainment on the deck at UnWINEd with tunes being offered 1-4 pm. In the early evening, you can enjoy the sounds of Will Roberts from 6-9 pm

Pitt County

Friday, April 2, 2021

Eric Sommer serves the sounds at Christy’s Euro Pub

Friday nights offer an acoustic showcase of entertainment. Three acoustic artists from Eastern North Carolina playing LIVE at Molly’s Community Café tonight!
Come enjoy good food and music from Erin Lewis, Sam Weatherly, and Joe Shingera this Friday evening in Uptown Greenville. Music is shared from 7-10 pm. All ages are welcome.

*****

Tim Bivans will provide the music fun at AJ McMurphy’s, with sounds being served from 8-12 pm.

*****

Phil McLean will pour out the tunes this Friday at Uptown Brewing Co. Music plays from 8-11 pm.

2Digi4 will debut on stage at Buccaneer Music Hall, sharing songs 8-11 pm.

*****

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Jamal Cody will be performing at Molly’s Community Café, Upton Greenville. Music starts at 7 pm.

*****

Side Trac Band will be rocking AJ McMurphy’s for your Saturday night fun. Music plays 8-12 pm.

******

Live music at Buccaneer Music Hall this Saturday will feature Justin Anderson. The music starts at 8 PM.

******

Wake County

Friday, April 2, 2021

Belly Dancing Night with JiJi at Sophie’s Bar and Grill . Live dancing 8-11 pm.

******

Major Vice is on the music menu tonight at Saints and Scholars Pub. Live tunes will be shared from 7-11 pm.

*****

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Travis Conn will bring the fun times to Tippetts Mill this Saturday with tunes rocking 7-10 pm.

*****

Major Vice provides the music at Sophie’s Bar and Grill. Music is serve 8-11 pm.

*****

Scooters Grill and Bar hosts Bump on stage providing music from 7-11 pm.

******

Tyson Brothers will be performing Saints and Scholars Pub, with music being offered 7-11 pm.

*****

Sunday, April 4, 2021

G.W. Pierce will bring the live music to Saint’s & Scholars Pub for Sunday Funday with songs being shared 3-6 pm.

Wayne County

*****

Saturday, April 3, 2021

Nothing But Barbecue at Seven Springs Farms and Vineyard with The Stanley Baird Band offering the jazz music to accompany dinner. This afternoon’s event kicks off at 2 pm. For tickets visit Events at the Vineyard.

*****

Adam Hill will serve the sounds this Saturday night at Crossroads Bar & Grill 10 pm.

*****

Sunday, April 4, 2021

Adam Hill provides the delicious bunch sounds this Sunday at The Flying Shamrock from 11 am – 3 pm.

Hill also has an early evening show this Sunday. Catch him live at Crossroads Bar & Grill rocking his final show for the busy weekend from 6-9 pm.

Thanks for Reading!

If you have an upcoming show you’d like to share here, send an email to ncmz.live@gmail.com and we’ll try to include your show.

All content is published by Tracey Stones

I roam the scene far and wide and bring it all together for you here, in the simple hopes of connecting people to the local music near them!

Tracey Stones caught working. Photo credit: Susan Baugham

If you enjoy this blog, support it by spreading the word a d sharing it with friends! Donations are always welcome never expected and much appreciated! Thank you for your love and support.

~ Tracey Stones

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We Need More Music Now!

February 4, 2021February 8, 2021 Tracey Stones1 Comment

Music Promotes Healing and We Need Both Now!

If there is one thing we can all agree on during these controversial days, it is that the release of a virus from a Chinese lab has created a difficult season for so many of us. It’s been a long season of uncertainty, one that’s been filled with grief. Sadness has now clung to us far longer than any of us ever imagined at this time last year. Many have lost loved ones or have suffered other crippling losses, such as the loss of their thriving business that once supported families and community members.

None of this has been easy for anyone to navigate. This long season of pandemic and pestilence has left us very depressed and disconnected. The repercussions of this situation, which is in short a world crisis, are stifling to think about. Even our innocent children are suffering terribly. The class of 2032 has fallen deep into an abyss we probably don’t really want to explore.

Through it all, I have stood strong in my faith, believing that God is ultimately in charge. Even in the storms of life, I can always see Him working on our behalf. I do not think He is happy with the current events of this world, but I believe He loves us and He will get us through this. Making us stronger, and blessing us with grace and abundance that will show us the light in this dark era of our lives.

Whenever I am suffering through difficult times, and I have known a few, stay tuned and you’ll see…I always turn up the music. Music is an important part of healing the soul. It’s a center piece of worship services in churches all around the world and it is a corner stone to introductory and elementary education. Music can transform our spirit and heal our hurts too.

In preparation for this piece, I did do some research on music and healing. It’s well documented and scientifically proven that music heals people. With that being said, I think it’s time we all turned up the music.

Supporting my thoughts and feelings I selected three articles you might find interesting on the subject. According to The Benefits of Music: How the Science of Music Can Help You author Vanessa Van Edwards says, “Listening to music releases endorphins in the brain. Endorphins give us a heightened feeling of excitement. In addition to feeling euphoric, endorphins quell anxiety, ease pain and stabilize the immune system. With high endorphin levels, we have fewer negative effects of stress.”

Then I learned in a recent article published by the Harvard Health Blog for the Harvard Medical School, Andrew E. Budson, MD.; discusses at length “Why Music Is Good For The Brain” about an AARP study we learn how music really effects the brain in detail. Budson says, “So just how does music promote well-being, enhance learning, stimulate cognitive function, improve quality of life, and even induce happiness? The answer is, because music can activate almost all brain regions and networks, it can help to keep a myriad of brain pathways and networks strong, including those networks that are involved in well-being, learning, cognitive function, quality of life, and happiness.”

For a final read I will direct you to Michael Friedman Ph.D.; published a blog piece for Psychology Today “Does Music Have Healing Powers?
Studies shows music is a potent treatment for mental health.” where he points out that, “Research clearly demonstrates that improved social connection and support can improve mental health outcomes. Thus, any music that helps connect people can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental health.”

From my own experiences, music has been vital to healing many hurts. Back in 2019, I put my work here on hold and did my own social distancing before a virus ever invaded our world. I did it was because, in short, things did not go as planned. It was a very painful and dark time for me personally.

I know it seems a little ridiculous to some, but this little website and the work I do here is a dream and a calling for me. I started out thinking I would be the conductor in a sea of music makers. I wanted to be the conduit, the connector!

What I learned is that the people I wanted to help the most, were the very ones that hurt me the most. It was hard really hard to muddle through and make sense of, much like this covid mess is for the world now. I won’t soon forget how it was a struggle to simply survive the underhandedness and hate that was served in my name. Suicide was an option I contemplated, but with loving my son and knowing that I have a greater future with God, I stayed home and prayed my way through it.

Most of the people that were slinging mud on my name, were people I helped. That is a rude awakening, I don’t care who you are. I learned what it felt like to be bulldozed and bullied in about a 30 day span. It felt like one hit after another. The first blow came because I did not pay certain entertainers enough attention. Then the beatings commenced when I deactivated my FB profile so to rewind and regroup from that underhanded takedown. Months later, when I reactivated my account I was greeted over and over again by one post that was penned by someone I always tried to help! This cyber attack would drive me to a near breaking point. Case in point: The bashing. How would you feel?

I have long wondered how I would handle this soul shaking awakening that I was forced to survive. The only way I know is to be forth right. In hindsight, I concur, that post is more of a reflection of those people than it ever will be about me. Today I use that post to help others feel better about themselves when the world is beating them down. The entire post and the thread of hate that follows speaks more about those who participated and nothing of me. In my defense, I unfriended him after reading all of that, and yes, I do unfriend and block people that are detrimental to my peace of mind or cause me pain. Yes, I fire customers who can’t keep agreements. And no I never was paid twice by any band or place! In fact I lost more money than gained in doing this for others. No one has the courage to ask but they can join in the hate. Life is too short to deal with sap suckers and liars that drain you of your good life!

Fact is, after years of trying to do something special for a community of people, I felt defeated, and once that happened, I simply put myself in time out after a very underhanded ordeal. What I can tell you about the person behind the above post, is that he is in a popular band, and works at the only music store in town.

Years and years ago, I showed up at his home, by way of invitation, to watch his new band practice. After a year of playing around town, I would make a connection that would bring them to a restaurant/club in Morehead City. It was agreed upon, via a hand shake, because my word is good and that is how I like to do business, that I would collect a $100 commission on each job they played.

Here is how his band handled that agreement; they paid me $200; $100 for the first two shows they played there and then cut me out of the following 15 shows they played for the months and years that followed the original agreement.

Fact is, even as he was stealing from me, I promoted his band and reached out to help him and his family with emergency relief supplies after Florence claimed their home.

To say that some people’s actions have made me contemplate the important work I do is no understatement. That’s fine. And so am I! God has been good to me always, so forgiveness is essential for my happy heart.

Luckily, I have a small circle of strong friends that lift me! None of the hard hits we take in life are easy and they are often hard to swallow. It does not have to change who we are meant to be though. After sometime I rested in the facts that I did my work! I held up my agreements. Living life is a character building exercise. I feel like what you put out to the universe, the universe will be return to you. I can’t stop people from their destiny. Even if it is their mission to take others down. I also can’t allow that to change my desire to promote and build others up.

Hard lessons are always learned in the darkest days. It was during this quiet time, after the storm, that I grappled with some tough realities. For instance, it became clear that the people I set out to help the most were the very people that hurt me the most. Definitely worth repeating! This forced me to reexamine everything, including my very existence, somedays.

After some time passed, I eventually ventured back out, in search of music so to heal the hurts other caused me. While I was out and about, I was always greeted by blog supporters. Many expressed their dismay of not knowing where the music was playing anymore. Some asked if I would ever be back? A few even begged me to come back. I knew that wasn’t necessary. This is who I am and what I do, so of course, all of the haters in the world can’t change a calling place upon one’s life.

In my time of retreat, I focused on rebuilding my cleaning business. This daily work is what allows me to afford the blog dream. In 2018, Florence wiped me out of two business plans. I finally dealt with the loss of both in late, 2019.

As it stands now, this blog site is 6 years old and still, very much in its infancy. This site is nothing more than a costly hobby right now, but in the long run, I see an app that connects people to their local live music scene, and jobs for free lance music lovers like myself throughout the country.

Though my work is focused on music makers and promoting them, in my down time I decided that this site is truly meant for the readers and the music supporters! We are the ones that to the players because we are the audience, the feed back and the support they all seek.

When the music fell silent in March due to the virus, it became a lot easier for me to accept not blogging, of course, yet I could feel my heart breaking for the many players and club owners that I still loved. Like everyone else, I went in search of a new normal and got certified for cleaning the virus.

After I paid off my bills and rebuilt my credit for the third or maybe fourth time, I came back to this site because music was starting to make its return and the work I do, no matter what people say about me, helps connect people to music. Feeling that music is of great importance to healing, finding it is something we all need to do right now. I, for one, am glad to be back offering this service.

My focus in this rebuild is to support the venues, bars and restaurants that support live music. It’s still my mission to share their music schedules and to continue in my work of connecting people to the local music scene! Making that simple connection for people could make a difference in so many lives; on so many levels. After a long break, one thing is still clear to me; I wish to be the one who introduces you to new talent from the players that are making music on the North Carolina music scene.