I’ve read some great articles, seen beautiful photos, and have had great conversations about recent experiences at the Keystone conference. There is nothing I can write that is more descriptive than others have already expressed. Since you ladies have helped me to find the confidence to be my authentic self, I chronicled my experiences over the last year in a classical form of art called “The Mix Tape.” Each song has an explanation for why it was included. I encourage you to find these songs on the platform of your choice and give them a listen.
The first song on the list has to be dedicated to my lovely wife. Without her, none of this would have happened. This song has many excellent lines that can speak to couples, but the one that speaks to me and her the most is: “Are you woman enough to be my man?”
1) Pearl Jam: “Hail, Hail.”
Songs two and three came into my life shortly after joining CDH. And two weeks after I discovered this band, I was at their show. Their band gave me a sense of power and courage. I tried to model my attitude, for my first day at Key, after the lead singer in the song “Money.” Their second song is “Evolve,” and well, its title is kind of self-explanatory in this context.
2) The Waring: “Money.”
3) The Warning: “Evolve.”
Song four is dedicated to the first CDH person, Nancy Gamms, that I met in person. We were both in drab but that didn’t matter. We had a great chat, and it was just so nice to be able to openly talk about what we do. It was a huge first step for me, and it set me on a trajectory of self-discovery like no other.
4) Wet Leg: “Chaise Lounge.”
Song five came to me via the YouTube algorithm after having a great chat about punk bands. It was at this point that I really started feeling a part of this community. To truly feel that there were others like me, and that I could find happiness and did not need to be so harsh on myself. Also, I was at the bar a bunch at Key, so this seemed fitting.
5) The Chats: “Pub Feed.”
Song six is dedicated to the entire CDH community. We are a diverse and eclectic group of wonderful people. And with that comes a wide variety of tastes, styles, and opinions. Some of which many may not like. Others might be similar to you. And some may even provide you an insight into your next go to outfit. And yet, we support and accept our differences and similarities.
6) Kacey Musgraves: “Cup of Tea.”
End of side one. Please flip the tape when side two is published…
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What a wonderful journey’s experience to put your feelings and reality into a mix of songs. Thank you and look forward towards mix tape two. Thank you for sharing this experience. Love. Janice.
Thank you for your kind words. It was so nice meeting you and chatting a bit at Keystone. So in part you too are encapsulated in this experience.
Yes I am and the beat goes on. There’s a song for you. Love. Janice.
Absolutely wonderful concept! Every time you hear one of the songs on the tape you will immediately be transported back to Keystone.
Your article served as an intro to the Warning for me, and I thank you for that. Their story provides inspiration for anyone hoping to pursue a career in musical performance, and they are very good! Hopefully one of their future tours will bring them to a stage near me. In the meantime I have one question; how did you play it?
Thank you for your kind words. And you’re absolutely right, transported everytime. So glad you like The Warning too. They quickly became one of my favorite bands and I listen to them almost daily. FYI they will be in Baltimore on May 22nd and tickets are still available. I will likely be there. I listened to them initially on YouTube. I suggest their official videos or their live sessions. Heres two links, to copy and paste,to help: Of course since then I bought their newest CD, which is currently sold out. Also, they are releasing a new song tomorrow. Hope… Read more »
So I get the blame? LOL. Thank you for the kind words. The feeling was mutual. I specifically recall discussing nail polish and how the dark colors are difficult to remove from the crevices and you basically finished my thought. The idea of of two guys sitting in a bar discussing nail polish removal is truely sitcom worthy.
Yep all your fault. Haha. That was such a great day for me. So glad I got to spend with you. I remember we would be talking all normal, loud in my case, then some CD topic would come up and we both got a bunch more quiet, basically whispered to each other. This will certainly be one of my cherished memories. Hugs.
I enjoyed this article Erika. The concept is so creative, songs that mean something to us are really special. Thanks for sharing this.
Glad you enjoyed it. I think you will particularly like side two.
I love #4 too, so catchy!
Right. They rocketed up my list. So different and unique. They have fun videos too.
Yes!! Love those too.
I love this idea, a mixtape to express how you truly feel!! We used to make a lot of mix tapes when I was a teen.
You got to see The Warning!! You’re so lucky. I first heard their Metallica cover of Enter Sandman years ago, when they were just teens and even younger.
Thanks for your kind words. Just got back from seeing them last night. They played that song. So awesome to see.