Concert Series Season Where We Find Music Under Gazebos and Pavilions, Plus Solo Acts, A Bit About Open Mic Nights and A New Music Calendar for NC!

June 24, 2022June 25, 2022 Tracey StonesLeave a comment

Music In The Park Featuring Built For Comfort Band Under the Gazebo In Morehead City

On Saturday, June 11, 2022 I caught up with Built For Comfort rocking their blues under the gazebo in Morehead City, for the Second Saturday Concert Series at Martin Luther King Jr City Park. The blues quartet from the Greenville area offer a fun show, featuring many blues standards and familiar rock favorites.

Making up the sounds in this band are Landy Spain, who tackles the guitar parts and lends a hand on vocals; Al Carroll plays the bass, Joe Tronto keeps the back beat on the drums and last but not least on harmonica, washboard, vocals is the band’s frontman, Bill Hunneke.

They perform many shows throughout the year, but its always fun to find them jamming in the park. The first time I heard this band in 2016, I met them at a park just around the corner, down on the water for Downtown Morehead City’s Alive at Five Concert Series.

Built for Comfort offer a Teeny Weeny Bit of fun music for fans in the park on Saturday June 11, 2022 in Morehead City’s Martin Luther King Jr. Park

Fans of the band can catch them on the second Saturday in July, if you find yourself in the Washington, NC area. Click here for event details: Built for Comfort on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at Sevens in Washington, NC. At the end of July they will rock their hometown when they take the stage at A.J. McMurphy’s in Greenville. Music will be shared from 8-11pm.

Click on this link if you’re looking for more information on the acts on the schedule for the **Second Saturday Series**

Coming up next month for the Second Saturday Concert Series will be the Thrillbillies, under the gazebo at Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Saturday, July 9, 2022 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. Bring a chair and the family for a night of food truck food and fun music.

At Swanfest We Go Under the Pavilion with Pure T Mommicked

**pure t mommicked** rocking Swanfest on Sunday, June 19, 2022, in Swansboro, NC

Pure T Mommicked is a familiar band on our local rock scene. This band has nearly a quarter-century of tales to tell. Over the years that I have known them I have seen duo and trio versions of the band, but Sunday, June 19, 2022, I was finally rocked by the full ensemble, complete with the church band rhythm section which included, Darren Boyd on bass and BJ Maynard on drums. Band founder and frontman Jimmy Mahoney, is the man on the mic with some guitar grit thrown in. Mark Hibbs more often plays bass with the band, but last week he tackled the six-string for Neal Paul who was out of town.

SwanFest is a weekly concert series brought to us by the Seaside Arts Council and its sponsors in downtown Swansboro, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Should you find the time to attend some Sunday soon, please consider offering a donation to assist with keeping the music and arts community flowing.

Of course, when living in Eastern North Carolina in the Summer, we do have to contend with storms and severe weather on occasion. When weather interferes with the show going on the committee simply reschedules the show. Sometimes they extend the season and other times the stack acts. For example, I went to see Pegasus Plus on Sunday, June 12 but given the weather, they rescheduled the band for July 3. The double header will be featuring Captain Dick & the Lost Seamen kicking things off at 6:30 pm, followed by Pegasus Plus at 7:30 pm.

MC for the event last Sunday was Will Baker who is a member of the Seaside Arts Council and half of the Will & Tony Show. Always active in supporting the arts, I met Baker years ago when he was working Hillsborough, NC for a living and promoting local music on the radio there too. Now that he is retired, our coastal area is happy to have his talents in event planning.

Baker takes photos and videos of the events and uploads the captures to the Seaside Arts Councils Facebook Page. You can follow them and enjoy the music.

Will Baker welcomes gatherers to the Father’s Day SwanFest and introduces Pure T Mommicked who opens the show with a rocking original number

As for last Sunday, it was a beautiful Father’s Day night with local rockers, Pure T Mommicked, a band that came to life 24 years ago, just over the bridge in Emerald Isle, NC. Over the years the band has turned out quite a bit of original music, which is available on all streaming platforms. When I was writing this piece I was listening to them on Spotify, but at work I listen to them on Amazon Music. If you enjoy original rock I recommend checking out this rocking quartet. To keep up with their show and band announcements, follow them on facebook by liking pure t mommicked today.

Spotlight on Some Local Solo Singers

Hank Barbee at Oceanana Pier and Pier House Restaurant

I caught up with a solo Hank Barbee at the beach a couple weeks back. The long legged baritone was set up for dinner sounds, under the bar cover on the deck at Ocenana Pier and Pier House Restaurant. They host live music every Saturday evening from 6-9 pm.

Barbee splits his time playing solo, mostly around his hometown area of Wilmington, NC, and making rhythms around the region with his band The Dust Parade. In fact, the quartet will be setting up for a show tonight at Carolina Home & Garden in Newport, NC. The music starts at 6:30 pm. This band blends the talents of Barbee on guitar and vocals, Jim Durham on sax and vocals, Matt Henderson on bass and Xavier Roberson on drums. They offer original music mostly, with a wind-inspired surf sound with hints of jazz and blues. It’s always an awesome musical experience with the Dust Parade. The band will be making their rounds this summer. Next week they will be jamming at The New Village Brewery in Oriental on, July 2, 2022.

You can also mark your calendar today for their appearance at SwanFest on Sunday, August 14, 2022.

The Dust Parade has plenty of merchandise available for fans online and at their shows. Be sure to show your support by buying some music to take on the go, or a T shirt with the band’s logo. Keep in mind that every merch-purch helps advance projects for the band. One said project we are looking forward to advancing is new Dust Parade Music.

The band has been working things out for their next release. With Covid shutting things down and real life taking its toll, time has been the hardest thing to find for the studio work. The next release will be worth the wait though. It truly is going to be a beast. It will highlight this band and all of the friendship and music kinship which Barbee has been cultivating since his full time return to the NC scene in 2016.

Dust Parade Music – “It’s a Good Day” – Hank Barbee, June 11, 2022 at Oceana Pier House Restaurant

Coming up this Saturday, June 25 and next July 2, at Ocenana Pier and Pier House Restaurant will be the fun jams of MadSol Music, featuring talented stringer Tony Soldati and beautiful vocalist, Riley Madison on the deck from 6-9 pm. If you haven’t heard this duo yet, you’re in for a treat. They set out for stages all over the state, from Greenville, NC about 8 months ago. Barbee returns the following week for a solo shot at the pier on Saturday, July 9, 2022.

Greenville, NC-based duo MadSol

SwanFest PreFest with New Bern Artist Clarence Coley Live at Bake, Bottle & Brew

**Clarence Coley** wraps up his final set at Bake, Bottle & Brew on Sunday, June 19, 2022

Before heading over to SwanFest on Sunday, I stopped by Bake, Bottle & Brew to catch the last set of New Bern stringer, Clarence Coley. I caught this talented singer at open mic several years ago in New Bern, when he dropped by Tap That, but this was the first time I caught his live show.

While out and about I had the pleause of meeting blog follower, facebook friend and fellow music lover Joan Cross. She was sitting with David Stover at Coley’s gig. Joan called me over and introduced herself and welcomed me to their table. I told Stover I was in town the week before to catch his show with Pegasus Plus, but as we both knew, the event was postponed due to the weather. Along with playing bass for Pegasus Plus, he also keeps things in the pocket for Captain Dick & The Lost Seamen. As mentioned above both bands will share the bill next month for SwanFest during the Fourth of July weekend.

As for Coley, this talented player offers a mixed set with a variety of popular genres, including country and rock for all ages. Along with solo performances he plays in a duo Rollin’ Woods with his future wife Kristen McRoy, who he brags about on stage even during his solo shows. The duo has been navigating new territories with a new band mascot, their new baby Aidan who was born in late February. You can scope out Coley and Rollin’ Woods on Facebook to keep in tune with their destiny.

The Importance of Open Mic Nights

Tiff, Fern, Jesse, and Ryan Rubich and more joined the jam at Nick’s Blacksheep

Many music makers that are novice on the scene often hone in their talents and sharpen their stage skills at open mic events. These events often take place during the week and offer a platform for music makers to join forces, share music, create bands and more. As a music lover, I enjoy open mic nights because I get to meet and listen to so many cool acts in a short time. So many of the artists found on this blog site came to my attention thanks to an open mic night. Since open mic nights are good platforms and popular on the scene, I will always share new places to take your talent each week.

Durham

Greenville/Winterville

The nice thing about Greenville is you can hit several hot spots in a night to work out your jams. For example you can start out your Monday night with John Williams who opens the stage to jammers at AJ McMurphy’s 8 pm – until everyone jams. Following that fun, you can check in at The Buccaneer Music Hall which opens the stage at 10 pm until 1 am. All jammers are welcome to join the list and share their talents. On Wednesday’s in town you can check out Molly’s Community Cafe where tunes start at 7 pm. Just on the outskirts of town, over in Winterville, you can catch Mark Oliver hosting open mic at Nauti Dog Brewing Company. This is an every other Wednesday event. All are welcome to jam. Sign up and play from 7-10 pm.

Washington

Backwater Jack’s offers an open mic night on their pebble beach stage each Thursday that the weather permits. Hosted by local talent, Brian Burke, all are welcome to join in the fun. Music plays from 7-10 pm and all are encouraged to play. Above is a local jammer that joined the fun last summer. The restaurant and tiki bar is a big supporter of live music each weekend and serves up some great food too!

Along the Coast

Tiffany Elaine, The Crystal Coast’s mama bear and open mc hostess with the mostest!

For those living near the Crystal Coast, you can join in the fun that Tiffany Elaine cultivates at Cru Bar & Wine Store / The Beaufort Coffee Shop every Monday night. The mic opens at 7 pm and the fun happens until 10 pm. I have to to this open mic night several times over the years and always have a blast.

Tiffany is an angel on our music scene, doing a lot to help music makers strive and thrive in music. She takes her role as host seriously and makes a connection with everyone who joins her events. She introduces each person and makes everyone feel welcome and an important part of the equation.

This mother of three not only hosts open mic nights, but also makes music with her sweetheart, singer and guitarist Fernando Rivera with their duo Fern and Tiff, as well as plays music with her friend Steve Mehan in Southbound Train. Catch them this Saturday poolside at The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores. They will perform 1-4 pm.

Presenting The New NCMZ.Live Music Calendar Page

Are You Looking For An Open Mic to Test The Waters? Or Do You Want to Know Where to Find Live Music Tonight?

New NCMZ.LIVE Music Calendar

Today marks a new day in the blog world now that I have created and implemented a new calendar page that I can add new events to as I learn about them.

This gives readers and fans a reason to stop by the site more which is not only good for the acts we promote but the businesses too.

Advertise your live music events on this site! Reach an audience looking for live music!

You can support my effort by sharing this article with friends on your social media sites. Take a break and support live music this weekend. If you tip the blogger, your funds will be used to fuel the mission of supporting live music around the state. Thank you!

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Local Live Music For Your Streaming Pleasure

June 14, 2022June 14, 2022 Tracey StonesLeave a comment

I recently asked my Facebook friends to share their music streams.

If you are on Facebook click on the link below to find some downhome homegrown music from local NC artists.

www.facebook.com/100006035715115/posts/1894625714081934/

Chilling with Singers and Stringers, Plus Crooning with Country Stars

On The Scene With Tracey Stones Meeting Up with Country Crooners Croaker Festival With Bryan Mayer Band Mary Shine and I caught up with Bryan Mayer Band at Croaker Fest a few weeks ago! This is a slow season for the band that claimed many accolades earlier this year at the 2019 CCMA’s.Bass Player of the Year MikeContinue reading Chilling with Singers and Stringers, Plus Crooning with Country Stars

July 27, 2019August 2, 2019 Tracey StonesLeave a comment

On The Scene With Tracey Stones

Rocking the scene by day with NCMZ.LIVE editor and cleaning partner in crime, Robert Walker! If you are ready to have your house cleaned from top to bottom call us! We can rock that detail like nobody’s business. For more details on our day job visit Tracey’s Clean Sweep, LLC.

Meeting Up with Country Crooners

Croaker Festival With Bryan Mayer Band

Mary Shine and I caught up with Bryan Mayer Band at Croaker Fest a few weeks ago! This is a slow season for the band that claimed many accolades earlier this year at the 2019 CCMA’s.

Bass Player of the Year Mike Sandvig is currently seeking new opportunity for playing as well as productions! Currently, Mayer is keeping busy with a solo career leaving bandmates in a state of flux.

Sandvig is not only available to fill in for on bass for pretty much any genre, but he is also the owner of Sound Hut Productions and can accommodate the production needs for your next show! Looking for a studio for your next rehearsal? This is also an available option.

To inquire about all of this, call Mike Sandvig at (252) 259-7337. He is ready to get the job done for you. If it is not all about the bass, and you only need lights and sound, no problem. From the backbeat to production, he has the equipment, space, experience, and determination to help bands sound their best.

To keep up with Bryan Mayer be sure to like his Facebook Page by following the link below:

Bryan Mayer Band on Facebook

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Scott Shelby Checks In with NC Fans

Scott Shelby, the country crooner from Pittsburgh PA, made his way to the beach again this summer and spent several weeks serenading us. When we caught him, he shared the stage with his friend Cody Woody, a crooner from Texas.

The duo performed live at The Tackle Box in Atlantic beach last month for a chance performance. This weekend Shelby finishes up his Outer Banks Tour with an appearance at Uncle Ike’s Bar in Corolla, NC. Music starts at 6 pm. He has a new release and lots of merchandise to offer fans and friends. Be sure to visit the artist on the web by following this link

Scott Shelby

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Rubich & Cain

Rubich & Cain are a fun duo, that came to be following an open mic night at the Crystal Coast. The pair of music makers enjoy playing tunes that make the crowds groove to their beats.

In June I hosted the duo for a Concert at Red Sail Park, the crowd enjoyed the music and the vibe they shared. They have been rocking the scene since the New Year and will be making an appearance in Jacksonville, NC tonight at Twin Ravens Tavern. Music plays from 10 pm until closing.

The duo also hosted a night of music at Sara’s Big Apple in June and the crowd has asked for them to come back. So by popular demand, you can catch Rubich & Cain at Sara’s again in late September.

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Singers and Stringers on the Scene

Common Interest Rocked Sunday Funday In Beaufort

It’s been well over a year since I heard Common Interests share the grooves that do a soul good. Fronted by Delancy Loftus on vocals and guitar, they are the common core of rock grooves. I found this trio jamming out back, to the folks that gathered at Backstreet Pub in Beaufort at the end of June. The band does not get together too often these days, but when they do they sure have a lot of fun making music.

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Ed Prophet Filled the Date and Rocked the Deck at Southern Salt

I was happily surprised to run into Ed Prophet a couple weeks ago, when he was covering a gig at the last minute on the deck at Southern Salt Seafood Company in Morehead City. This strummer is based out of New Bern, but spends much of his time playing to crowds along the Crystal Coast.

While in attendance Prophet shared a unique and beautiful version of “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones, a song he made his own and sent it out to a friend he recently lost. It moved me to tears. This crooner is smooth as silk and always entertaining to hear. Tonight he will provide live entertainment at Island Market & Tiki Bar in Top Sail Island. Music starts at 8 pm and he rocks you until 11 pm.

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Scott Arnold Played Royal James Cafe

I never met Scott Arnold until a couple weeks ago, when I caught the performer rocking the room at Royal James Cafe in Beaufort, NC. He offers some familiar favorites, from pop to country but the stringer and singer also offered a few songs of his own. I was on had to capture the first song he ever wrote, which can be heard in the video above.

When not rocking the stage solo, you can catch this crooner working the strings with Big n Rich’ ard a Crystal Coast Country Duo. Arnold will be rocking the stage at the Treehouse in Cedar Point in full duo formation. Music starts at 7 pm.

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Big News For Now or Never Fans

I have been watching Tiffany Elaine evolve into a music diva since she set out three years ago. This singer-songwriter is an ambitious dreamer with songs to share. When I first met her she was shy and a little scared, but determined to sing her songs. As time unfolded, she grew with courage and blossomed with friendships.

After coming into her own, the talented and ambitious singer set out to create a scene for others along the Crystal Coast. She did this with hosting open mic events each week in various locations. This work still continues, but the excitement comes with all that she found in hosting these events.

A few weeks into carving that new normal, she found herself locked in a zone with friends she felt at home with. Fernando Rivera and Steve Mehan would not only become regular players at her open mic events, but they would go on to be band-mates and form the band Now or Never.

After much ado and production, this original act cut and will soon release Waves. This is the band’s first single and is offered on a disc that was recorded and mastered at TeraNote Entertainment in Morehead City. The band will host a single release party for their song Waves, tomorrow night at 6p at Cru Bar and Wine Store.

For those interested in finding the band tonight, they have two shows. First stop is at Sara’s Big Apple in New Bern for supper music from 6-8 pm and then at 10 pm catch them at Pour Haus Pub in Farmville, NC.

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~ Live Music Options ~

Saturday, July 27, 2019

On the Outskirts of Town

Sara’s Big Apple

Live music will be offered in the back room at Sara’s Big Apple this evening courtesy of Now or Never. This New Bern native has made his music known all over the world by scripting sounds for TV and movies. Tonight this talented player will share some seamless sounds of guitar melodies, to those that gather for food and music tonight. Sara is always cooking up something amazing for supper and Tiffany Elaine and Fernando Rivera makes beautiful music any time they gather. Come out and enjoy both tonight.

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Moore’s Olde Tyme Barbeque Chicken & Seafood (New Bern, NC)

Moore’s Olde Tyme Barbeque Chicken & Seafood (New Bern, NC) welcomes the music of Country Express Band offering live music from 6-8 pm for diners delight tonight.

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Getting Down Around Town New Bern

Our Local Clubs and Pubs

The Brown Pelican

The Brown Pelican hosts an evening of music with Core Sound, offering the classic rock music you know and love from 8-11 pm.

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Blackbeard’s Triple Play

Blackbeard’s Triple Play Restaurant, 415 S Front St. The party comes courtesy of Mommicked! They will bring the music to life tonight on the deck with all the grooves you will love. Music plays at 7:30 pm- 11 pm. For more info please reach out and call the club at 252-635-0322.

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City Stage New Bern

City Stage New Bern, 901 B Pollock St, welcomes New Bern based classic rock makers The Wannabees, for music and fun tonight starting at 8 pm.

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On the James City Side of that Confounded Bridge

Brütopia

BrÜtopia offers the freshest brewed beer and the grooves of Caffeinated Soul Boogie live. Sharing songs tonight and jamming from 7-10 pm. Free music for your listening pleasure. Come out and support local music, while you enjoy the freshest new beer on tap!

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Cruising the Crystal Coast

Atlantic Beach 2016

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Cedar Point, NC

Treehouse Beer Company

Treehouse Beer Company welcomes the music of Big and Rich, ard, live and grooving in the garden from 7-10 pm. Sip on a cold beer and groove to the music tonight.

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SWANSBORO, NC

Bake, Bottle & Brew

Bobby Webb & Co. offers the live music sounds tonight at Bake, Bottle & Brew this evening. Music is offered from 6-9 pm.

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Emerald Isle, NC

The Trading Post: Southern Food and Spirits

Joe Baes Project will be offering songs to the fans and friends that gather for good eats and great beer tonight at The Trading Post: Southern Food and Spirits. Music starts at 6 pm and this New Bern based band will rock you until 9 pm.

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E-Club Emerald Isle

E-Club Emerald Isle is welcoming the rocking beat of reggae sounds with Monjah outside tonight at 8 pm and inside at 10 pm with Selah Dubb. In between sets groove to the dance favorites, you love courtesy of Dj Natural Nate at 7 pm and Dj Yspin at 11 pm.

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Morehead City, NC

Floyds 1921 Restaurant and Catering

Floyds 1921 Restaurant and Catering welcomes Red and The Rockers for your dining entertainment this evening. Music plays from 7-10 pm. You are welcome to come early for a delicious dinner and stay late for fun music.

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Southern Salt Seafood Company

The Island Time Band will offer the music selections for those eating on the deck at Southern Salt Seafood Company. Located on the waterfront in Morehead City. Come early to enjoy the fresh catch and stay late to dance the night away. Music starts at 9:30 pm on the deck and rocks until 12:30 am!

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Jack’s Waterfront Bar

There is a good time every time you visit Jack’s Waterfront Bar. Checking things out for the weekend:

~Saturday July 27th~
Open @ Noon
Live music by Backyard Groove begins @ 9:30pm
Wood Fired Brick Oven Pizza available
~Sunday Funday July 28th~
Open @ Noon
Live music on the deck by 4EverAll from 4pm – 8pm
Wood Fired Brick Oven Pizza available
See you at Jack’s!
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OFF THE HOOK

Off The Hook welcomes the fun and rocking grooves of The Spread tonight on the deck. Music starts at 10 pm and the fun jams last until it’s time to head home. Come out and dance the night away under the stars!

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Beaufort, NC

C ru Bar & Wine Store/ The Beaufort Coffee Shop

C ru Bar & Wine Store/ The Beaufort Coffee Shop presents a night of music with Dick Knight. Music starts at 8 pm and this show goes until 11 pm. Free music is never free, please tip the players that groove you tonight.

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SURF CITY, NC

JM’S PLACE PUB

JM’s Place PUB welcomes the reggae grooves of Adwela. The fun grooves play from 9 pm until 12 am. Tomorrow at JM’s Place come out for Sunday Funday with Adam Hill

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Southport, NC

Fishy Fishy Cafe

Tonight The Other Guys will offer the dinner grooves and will be serving the sounds at Fishy Fishy Cafe tonight. Music starts at 6:30 pm and the food is always delicious.

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Rocking Around the Region

Garner, NC

Locked & Loaded Bar & Grill

Locked & Loaded Bar & Grill opens the stage to The Origin, offering their rocking best tonight. Music is free and kicks off at 9:30 pm and lasts until 2 am.

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Durham, NC

The Blue Note Grill

The Blue Note Grill

Jonathan Byrd and The Pickup Cowboys are musical gunslingers, vaudevillian hucksters, and old-fashioned tent revivalists.

Due to health reasons, we regret that Jon Dee Graham will not be joining Jonathan Byrd & the Pickup Cowboys. We’ll keep him on our booking wish list!

Rebecca Newton & Barry Gray will open!

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Seven Springs, NC

Crossroads Grill & Bar

Adam Hill will be sharing songs tonight with friends and fans that gather at Crossroads Grill & Bar tonight. Music starts at 10 pm. Grab a burger, enjoy a cold beer and groove to the music tonight.

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Washington, NC

Backwater Jack’s Tiki Ba r & Grill

There are some live music choices up to our North tonight. Backwater Jack’s Tiki Bar & Grill is always a great time with music and good food on the menu! Music is served from 7-10 pm each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Thursdays they welcome all players with a Low Key Open Mic Night, hosted by Brian Burke.

On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s the finest local acts on the list to entertain you, while you dine and drink and unwind. Tonight it is Rowlette Green. Music rocks till 10 pm.

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The Wine Crate

Music is on tap at The Wine Crate tonight with singer-songwriter Bailey Gerard, sharing the songs you are sure to enjoy. Come early to enjoy the taste from the bistro and stay late for the good music. Songs are shared from 7-10 pm this evening! Tomorrow you are invited to return for brunch with music being offered by local favorite, Chuck Phillips at noon.

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Jacksonville, NC

Nick’s Blacksheep Tavern

Southern Voice Encore at Nick’s Blacksheep Tavern is what is on tap tonight at Nick’s. Music starts at 9 pm. This is the first band Nick hired and is always excited to announce their return. Featuring the voice of Tim Hair, be sure to be on hand to dance the night away at Nick’s tonight!

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Oriental, NC

The New Village Brewery & Taproom

Frank and Lili Bacon are always up to something good at The New Village Brewery and Taproom. They brew tasty beer, bring live music and raise funds to help education, assist their community in need and even raise money to bring more music. In fact, that is what they are doing today.

Be sure to stop out today to show your support for their Oktober Fest in July taking place today from 5-9 pm. $1.00 per pint poured today will be donated to the Ol Front Porch Music Festival. Offering the music in the back yard under the sails will be Jill and Shane Harris.

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Tomorrow I will take you on a blues journey as we catch up with Big Jim, and coming up next week we check-in with Mojo Collins and so much more.

Answering the Call

Checking things out around the rest of the region, I ask my Facebook followers each week where we can go to hear them play. This is what they said this week.

July 22 at 6:00 PM

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Do you like live music videos? Check out my Live Stream Page on Facebook.

Tracey Stones Live on Facebook

Searching for more events around the region:

Events on Facebook

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Keeping up with the Blogger

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TraceyStones69.

Feel free to invite me to your events.

If you have a budget for advertising, please consider promoting your next event here!

Do you need music for an event you are planning? Consider the services of:

Tracey Stones Productions

I read emails daily. You can send those to:

ncmz.live@gmail.com

Please include the day, the date, the time of the event, the time of your scheduled performance.

Be sure to mention what time doors open and the price of tickets.

Pictures are helpful. You may send links to band websites so I can post those as well.

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Thank You for Reading!

Tonight’s blog is made possible thanks to the donation and kindness of Ken Byrd.

Please go out and support live music tonight! Please be sure to call the club in advance to confirm what you read here is true. Many times events change without anyone updating the changes publicly.

If you like this blog please sign up and get an email each time we publish.

I appreciate my readers, the musicians and the venues who all do a part in keeping live music alive! Give us a like and tell your friends about our mission by sharing this page on your social media pages.

Thanks to the many bands and clubs, thanks for keeping me informed!

When you walk out the door tonight, take kindness with you. Be sure to tip those that serve you and the music makers that rock you!

Hug people often and share the love. Make sure you take time to enjoy the dance. Please party safely sweet people! We love having you here with us! Rely on your sober friends, call a cab or sign up to Uber around town tonight!

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Have a great weekend and enjoy the dance! Come back tomorrow and we will go country and sing the blues some too! Until then, cheers!

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Generating Money and All the Many Gigs Around the Region

June 14, 2019September 24, 2019 Tracey StonesLeave a comment

This Music Business. Class Is In

Money Makes All Things Possible

In this segment, we are going to look at the bottom line. Money is a key factor in the success of any business. This is even true for the music business. Regardless of your feelings on the subject, money matters. It is the major component of tracking your financial success.

Many players jump into the band business and never put in the time to develop a business plan. It is rarely even a second thought and quite frankly this is why many bands break up or fall to the wayside. If you are involved in a project and money is being made and time is being expended, then you should take the time to meet at the start of the endeavor to better plan the adventure. Communication is an important element in developing a well-executed plan.

A lot of bands come together for the FUN factor and don’t split a hair or care about the money, at first! But after some time, as things work out and the band plays more… before long, it’s a few years of time and when adding it up, the money comes to matter.

You need money to keep your gear in tune and sounding the best it can. If you play any stringed instruments you need strings and often picks. Guitar players also need a lot of 9-volt batteries. Drummers need sticks. Everybody has expenses and those things add up over time. Make sure that it is factored in from the start. Also keep in mind how much it costs for travel, including and so often the forgotten costs of wear and tear, along with gas and tolls. (Consider paying .60 per mile travel to anyone who is driving.)

Often times, if your band grows to know some bit of success, you branch out and before long you need money to feed yourself and/or stay overnight if the gig is far away. So after adding up all of the expenses for that, let’s also remember that players need to be paid for their time too. Giving everyone the same wage is a mistake. You will run out of money before all of the expenses are paid.

Money Matters!

Don’t act like money is unimportant just because we are all having fun. Let’s not forget a few truths. Money makes and breaks many relationships, it destroys marriages and it devastates many bands too. The key to money management is communication. When money is pooled together, and in any business that is what happens, all of your earnings are put into one account and then you pay out your expenses.

Let’s say I hit the scene with the Tracey Stones Band. I have four members plus myself. I don’t play an instrument, I am just the singer. But I provide the PA and lights for this operation. I also manage the bookings and promotions. Along with that, I own a large vehicle that houses my production equipment and two other players and their equipment, as I always pick up the bass player and lead guitarist who live close by. The drummer and the rhythm guitar player carpool in the drummer’s car. This means you have two cars on the road for this job. $500 job. If the job is 40 miles round trip, then two drivers should be compensated for $24 of travel costs right off the top and before the hourly wages are sorted out. Same holds true for the cost of using the gear and lugging equipment.

As a unit, we are playing out on average, four nights a month and we have a travel radius of 50 miles. At the end of the night, Tracey Stones Band deposits a check for $500 for a three-hour performance. Quite often in this scenario, the leader of the band gets paid and distributes the funds evenly, meaning everyone walks away with $100 in their pocket. Eventually, the person who supplies the production, the one who does the driving and/or the person who manages the business portions of the project will get upset, feel short-changed and quite often quit! The reason is simple, piss poor planning leads to failure every time.

Cultivate Cash and Organize Opportunity

One of the key steps to formulating a good plan is, to identify the ways you will cultivate cash in this business plan. Are all of the earnings coming strictly from live performances? Chances are as the band grows in popularity, the opportunity will come to create more income based opportunities.

Let’s take a minute to identify some income sources. First and foremost, we all came together to play, so of course that is our main objective and revenue source. But being talented performers we have lots of options for cultivating cash. We can teach people our skills and help them develop their own. Teaching lessons is quite often a good source of revenue. Sometimes players sign up to teach students at a local music store, while others are traveling tutors, who visits students in the environment of their choice.

If you are an original band and you are producing products for sale, creating an online presence is important. Create your site just as soon as you have a name, logo and goal in place. This will be your stage set when the amps grow quiet. It is the platform which promotes you when you are not on stage under the bright lights. If you have a product to sell then you will want to create a site that has a store.

Selling products is a great way to generate income. But again, be sure to plan this stage as much as you planned playing on stages. Here are some important things to consider before setting up shop. What items can and will the band offer their fans? Who is going to be responsible for the merchandise? How will the revenue be spent?

If you have a successful band who generates a product, creating a store is a great way to ensure future recordings. Some of the most popular products include CD’s, t-shirts, coozies for beer cans, stickers. Every band model is set up differently, but a good model for merchandising the band is to use the profits for advancing the band’s career.

These are just some things to consider as you get ready to turn the world on its ear with your music. Keep in tune with a plan and the success will come. Tomorrow we will check out a couple of local bands that offer a merch plan worth sharing. Until then, it’s the weekend! Get out and enjoy some live music! CLASS DISMISSED.

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~ Live Music Options ~

Friday, June 14, 2019

JUNE 2019 ARTWALK… Come to downtown New Bern to participate in the festivities at the local ArtWalk businesses. Downtown art galleries and restaurants stay open for extended hours and sponsor special events every second Friday of the month!

Craven Arts Council will host receptions for the following exhibits:

-Main Gallery: Watercolor Society of North Carolina
-Director’s Gallery: Private Schools Exhibition

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There is always a reason to head to town and gather for some fun. Tonight’s reason: LIVE MUSIC

Union Point Park

Tonight New Bern Parks and Recreation Department welcomes their second show, offering for the series Footloose on the Neuse tonight in Union Point Park. Music will be offered by the BackBeat Band and all are welcome to attend. Pack the chairs or blankets, pets are welcome but must be on a leash. Don’t forget the bug spray and please leave the coolers at home. Vendors will be on site to serve you. The fun starts at 6:30 pm and the music plays until 9:30 pm.

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Our Local Clubs and Pubs

The Brown Pelican

The Brown Pelican hosts an evening of great music featuring Rick Huff offering songs from 7-10 pm. Come enjoy a fun night of familiar songs and wonderful originals by this local and regional songwriter. Free music is never free and neither is the gas to get there, please tip the music makers that you meet.

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Blackbeard’s Triple Play

Blackbeard’s Triple Play Restaurant, 415 S Front St. The party comes courtesy of Jan Michael Fields Band, they will bring the music to life tomorrow night on the deck with all the grooves you will love. Music plays at 7:30 pm- 11 pm. For more info please reach out and call the club at 252-635-0322.

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The Bruin Craft Beer and Wine

Live music will be offered is at The Bruin Craft Beer and Wine each Friday from 8-10:30 pm.

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On the James City Side of that Confounded Bridge

The Garage

The Garage welcomes the music of Ryan Cain. Live music is offered from 7-10 pm for FREE! But I suggest, you feel free to tip the servers and musicians you meet along the way!

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BrÜtopia

BrÜtopia offers the freshest brewed beer and the good grooves of Gene Gregory live, who will be sharing songs tonight and jamming from 7-10 pm. Free music for your listening pleasure. Come out and support local music, while you enjoy the freshest new beer on tap!

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Triple Play Restaurant & Sports Bar

The Upsetters will play music over at Triple Play Restaurant & Sports Bar this evening featuring the guitar work of Big Jim Kohler. No one else in the band is worth mentioning on my watch. Music starts at 9 pm.

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Cruising the Crystal Coast

Atlantic Beach 2016

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Cedar Point, NC

Treehouse Beer Company

Treehouse Beer Company welcomes the music of Pure T Mommicked grooving in the garden from 7-10 pm. Sip on a cold beer and groove to the rock blues and country grooves of this popular local duo.

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Newport, NC

Carolina Home and Garden

Carolina Home and Garden welcomes the weekend with Cecil Gillikin in the garden, offering songs and sharing the grooves we all know and love. Come grab a bite to eat from Dem Boyz BBQ, a cold beer and relax as you settle into the weekend.

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Swansboro, NC

The Boro Restaurant & Bar

The Boro Restaurant & Bar offers live music each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night. You are invited to bring the whole family and enjoy a great night of fine dining with awesome music. This Friday you can enjoy the music of Steel Shot. Music plays at 8-11 pm.

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Morehead City, NC

Floyds 1921 Restaurant and Catering

Floyds 1921 Restaurant and Catering welcomes 4 EverAll for your dining entertainment this evening. Music plays from 7-10 pm. You are welcome to come early for a delicious dinner and stay late for fun music.

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Off The Hook

Off The Hook welcomes the fun grooves of Groove Fetish tonight on the deck. Music starts at 10 pm and the fun jams last until it’s time to head home. Come out and dance the night away under the stars!

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Jack’s Waterfront Bar

There is a good time every time you visit Jack’s Waterfront Bar.

Friday June 14th
~ OPEN at noon
~ Happy Hour 5pm – 7pm hosted by Beaufort Proper
~ Live Music by Chocolate Chip and Company
~ Be sure to wish our very own Jeff McCann Happy Birthday today!
Saturday June 15th
~ OPEN at noon
~ Live Music by Jukebox Revolver
Sunday June 16th
~ Happy Father’s Day
~ OPEN at noon for Sunday Funday
See you at Jack’s!

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Beaufort, NC

C ru Bar & Wine Store/ The Beaufort Coffee Shop

C ru Bar & Wine Store/ The Beaufort Coffee Shop Presents

Blue Moon Jazz, Fri June 14th, 8:30-11:30, No Cover charge

BLUE MOON JAZZ is a NC Jazz Ensemble *perfect* for a wine bar setting!

Please come early for best seating!

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Surf City, NC

JM’s Place PUB

JM’s Place PUB welcomes the rocking grooves of Foundation Stone. The fun grooves play from 9 pm until 12 am.

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Rocking Around the Region

Garner, NC

Locked & Loaded Bar & Grill

Locked & Loaded Bar & Grill opens the stage to Kings of the Highway Band, offering the pop and rock grooves we all know and love. Music is free and kicks off at 10 pm and lasts until 2 am.

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Durham, NC

The Blue Note Grill

The Blue Note Grill

With his fiery guitar and lap steel playing, his trailblazing, instantly memorable songs and gritty, unvarnished vocals, Selwyn Birchwood is among the most extraordinary young star in the blues. Birchwood’s high-octane blues—at once deeply rooted, funky and up-to-the-minute—are played with passion and honest emotion. With his band feeding off his drive and exuberance, the striking 6’3” young man with his trademark Afro roams the stage (often barefoot), ripping out memorable guitar licks with ease, his soulful, rocks-and-gravel vocals firing up the crowd.

For additional info see http://www.selwynbirchwood.com/

The show starts at 9 pm and music plays until 11 pm. Come early for the good eats and stay late to enjoy the music.

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The Red Room

The Red Room welcomes Clay Whittington to the stage this evening for the music. Live sounds play from 10 pm until the closing hour. There is a $5.00 cover charge payable at the door. Support live music and pay the cover charge. That money helps to bring music.

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Oriental, NC

The New Village Brewery & Taproom

The New Village Brewery & Taproom invites you to gather in their backyard to enjoy the tasty eats of Mari’sHellaFat Food Truck, the freshest brewed beer on the block served with live music from their talented friend Mac McWilliams, who will be offering his own mix of TexMexBluesabilly music for your listening pleasure. Music plays from 5:30-7:30 pm

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Greenville, NC

AJ McMurphy’s

It is going to be a night not to be missed by southern rock n blues fans, as AJ McMurphy’s welcomes Jupiter Jones to the stage! Come grab yourself some good food and a cold drink at one of the coolest places in Greenville. Music plays from 8:30-11:30 pm. This show is free!

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Washington, NC

Backwater Jack’s Tiki Ba r & Grill

There are some live music choices up to our North tonight. There is a new room to welcome the bands during the winter months at Backwater Jack’s Tiki Bar & Grill. And that is where music is served from 7-10 pm each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. On Thursdays they welcome all players with a Low Key Open Mic night, hosted by Brian Burke. On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s the finest local acts on the list to entertain you, while you dine and drink and unwind. Tonight on the Pebble Stage is John “Singer” Benson. Music plays 7-10 pm.

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Market Street Pub

Friends and fans of Bria Burke are invited to come out to Market Street Pub this evening. Come out and enjoy a cold beer and country sounds offered by this talented artist. Music starts at 10 pm.

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Answering the Call

Checking things out around the rest of the region, I ask my Facebook followers each week where we can go to hear them play. This is what they said this week.

June 10 at 5:58 PM

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Do you like live music videos? Check out my Live Stream Page on Facebook.

Tracey Stones Live on Facebook

Searching for more events around the region:

Events on Facebook

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Keeping up with the Blogger

Follow me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TraceyStones69.

Feel free to invite me to your events.

If you have a budget for advertising, please consider promoting your next event here!

Do you need music for an event you are planning? Consider the services of:

Tracey Stones Productions

I read emails daily. You can send those to:

ncmz.live@gmail.com

Please include the day, the date, the time of the event, the time of your scheduled performance.

Be sure to mention what time doors open and the price of tickets.

Pictures are helpful. You may send links to band websites so I can post those as well.

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Thank You for Reading!

Please go out and support live music tonight! Please be sure to call the club in advance to confirm what you read here is true. Many times events change without anyone updating the changes publicly.

If you like this blog please sign up and get an email each time we publish.

Thanks to the many bands and clubs, thanks for keeping me informed!

When you walk out the door tonight, take kindness with you. Be sure to tip those that serve you and the music makers that rock you!

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Have a great weekend and enjoy the dance!

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Big Week for Big Jim and a Fun Weekend For Music Fans

June 4, 2019June 8, 2019 Tracey StonesLeave a comment

On the Scene With Tracey Stones

It was a big week for Big Jim Kohler Band as they opened a show for Joanne Shaw Taylor at The State Theatre on Friday evening! Above I pose with the secret weapon after she slayed it!

Memorial Day Remembrance and The Blues

Blues at The Brown Always A Blast!

It never gets old, this Monday Night Blues Jam at The Brown Pelican, hosted by Bear City’s King of The Blues, Big Jim Kohler and the boys. Always helping him on the killing floor are rhythm makers, Tom Parker on the drums and bass player Chris Buttitta.

Among the many jammers, we got to enjoy was Gordon Graham on harmonica, Phillip Alcock on the bass, Jonathan Peck and John R. Williams worked on their six-string skills.

It’s always fun to watch the people dance to the music and let their hair down. Come on out tonight and have a natural ball! Make a plan to join us this or some other Monday night. We promise to rock your blues away! Music plays from 7-9 pm.

The Brown Pelican is located at 411 Broad St., New Bern, NC. They are a private club. If you are not a member, stop by, fill out the membership form and pay your annual fee of $1.00. It might just be the best dollar you spend all year!

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Another Good Dollar Deal

Mid-Week Music at City Stage, New Bern

The mid-week blues break was a little bit different this week at The City Stage New Bern. The band used the opening hour of last Wednesday evening as a dress rehearsal for their opening set at The State Theatre in Greenville, last Friday night.

Once they ran through the set-list that they were to unleash on the crowd that gathered for Joanne Shaw Taylor, a British blues babe with some serious guitar riffs, they opened the stage to jammers.

Joining BJK on stage for the mid-week blues jam last week was, David Sawyer on the harmonica, Phillip Alcock on bass, Jonathan Peck on guitar, Simon Spalding on the electric fiddle, and last but not least, rocker Gary Dudley came up and shared the stage and used the Big man’s guitar! All in all, it was another great night of fun logged in the books at City Stage. The City Stage is located at 901 B Pollock St., New Bern, NC and is also a private club. This event is free but the state rules require you to sing up and pay a $1.00 annual fee for membership.

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Big Jim Gets A Break and Time on the Big Stage

It’s always exciting when a sound check is a part of the plan.

As an agent and an advocate for many music makers, it is always good to get a call for an opening act opportunity. Word came our way about two weeks ago that Big Jim Kohler would open the show of Joanne Shaw Taylor.

Believe it or not, our friend Big Jim is already accustomed to big stages. He spent many years on the road touring with blues royalty. First as the backup band for his mentor, Son Seals and then with legendary Byther Smith. He has swapped chops with other mighty men and calls well-known slingers good friends till the end!

After raging a war against his addiction to alcohol, Kohler has combated the illness with sobriety and the blues. He has also worked hard in losing weight to head off the diagnosis of diabetes and works on gaining strength every day still. Since coming out of his medically induced coma nearly two years ago, the blues-man has been working hard to get back in the game and these days he is sounding and looking better than ever.

On Friday night Kohler stepped out on stage and wowed the crowd with a clean and searing set of Chicago style blues. Before the night was over Kohler invited his wife to the stage to offer one song. “I’d Rather Go Blind” was the tune that Kathy Kohler slew the crowd with.

To check out that offering straight from the stage to our souls…visit this link:

I’d Rather Go Blind feat Kathy Kohler

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Joanne Shaw Taylor on Tour and Sharing her Reckless Heart

Joanne Shaw Taylor is a British based guitar player deep in American Blues traditions. Inspired by many American blues stringers, she has an affection for Texas stylings and is out on tour in support of her six release, “Reckless Heart.”

According to her bio on Wikipedia the 33-year-old is influenced by some of my favorites, she lists Stevie Ray Vaughan and Albert Collins and Jimi Hendrix, she was discovered by Eurythmics guitarist, Dave Stewart and has been chasing her music dreams since joining his super group in 2002. Her first release, “White Sugar,” was released on Ruff Records and her latest release is with Sony Music.

She made her way across the pond in 2017 headling her first US Tour and this year she’s doing it again. The band has a lot of stateside gigs and some are major music festivals, including Peach Festival in Scranton, PA this August. To check out all of the bands’ dates and enjoy Taylor’s music, visit:

Joanne Shaw Taylor Tour Dates

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4 Of A Kind Line the Stage at AJ’s Last Friday

Following the show at The State Theatre, I ventured around other parts of the city to see who else was playing. Stopping at AJ McMurphy’s I found a fairly new band lining the stage. 4 of a Kind was offering familiar sounds to the crowd when I entered the bar and restaurant.

Offering a folk-infused set of mostly country and pop songs, they have great harmonies and enjoy making music together. The quartet is working on putting together more shows and when those are announced I will share them with you right here.

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R.T. Johnson Band at The Buc Closes Out Friday Music Fun

Music In The Park Featuring Built For Comfort Band Under the Gazebo In Morehead City

At Swanfest We Go Under the Pavilion with Pure T Mommicked

Spotlight on Some Local Solo Singers

Hank Barbee at Oceanana Pier and Pier House Restaurant

SwanFest PreFest with New Bern Artist Clarence Coley Live at Bake, Bottle & Brew

The Importance of Open Mic Nights

Durham

Greenville/Winterville

Washington

Along the Coast

Presenting The New NCMZ.Live Music Calendar Page

Are You Looking For An Open Mic to Test The Waters? Or Do You Want to Know Where to Find Live Music Tonight?

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On The Scene With Tracey Stones

Meeting Up with Country Crooners

Croaker Festival With Bryan Mayer Band

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Scott Shelby Checks In with NC Fans

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Rubich & Cain

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Singers and Stringers on the Scene

Common Interest Rocked Sunday Funday In Beaufort

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Ed Prophet Filled the Date and Rocked the Deck at Southern Salt

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Scott Arnold Played Royal James Cafe

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Big News For Now or Never Fans

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~ Live Music Options ~

Saturday, July 27, 2019

On the Outskirts of Town

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Getting Down Around Town New Bern

Our Local Clubs and Pubs

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On the James City Side of that Confounded Bridge

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Cruising the Crystal Coast

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Cedar Point, NC

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SWANSBORO, NC

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Emerald Isle, NC

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Morehead City, NC

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Beaufort, NC

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SURF CITY, NC

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Southport, NC

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Rocking Around the Region

Garner, NC

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Durham, NC

Seven Springs, NC

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Washington, NC

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Jacksonville, NC

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