Name an introduction that lured you in.
Hey Rock n’ Roll Wonderland Friend, As I prep for episode #83 for Electric Radio Club, I must confess, I’ve been thinking about a past episode, #17, themed around introductions. Last week, I did my first ever Open Mic. A different kind of introduction. But before I get into that, I’m gonna try something new by starting the newsletter off with things that made an entrance into my world this past week. Things I Love Lately Music: I’m obsessed with the self-titled. Mr. Airplane Man that was released in 1998. Talk about an intro! It’s gritty-distorted-guitar riffs grabbed hold of my ears. I love that kinda of alt-garage-blues sound that’s perfect on a summer day while sitting on the porch. In my opinion, The Black Keys should be opening for this female duo! Movie: After reading this essay by Courtney Romano about the movie Moneyball, rigged games (aka social media) and indie artists, I decided to give it a watch. A heart-warming true story that I don’t necessarily need to watch over and over again but it did make think about my artistic stats and how I can change my artist game. Hence, Open Mic night. Misc: I mentioned in the last newsletter that I’ve revisited the book, The Artist’s Way (again). My Artist Date of the week was a visit to the Museum of American Speed. I’m not a gearhead by any means. I just love films with vintage cars. (Ahem. Steve McQueen in Bullitt). But the coolest car encounter in the museum was by far the one that looked like a coffin. I love the spiderweb headlights! 
About Making An Entrance
In episode #17 of Electric Radio Club, I refer to the opening scene from the documentary about the world-renowned restaurant owner, Michael Chow aka Mr. Chow. In the opening scene, Mr. Chow shows off his film knowledge and asks the director to name any movie and he’ll describe the opening scene. “Why is the first scene so important?” the director asks Mr. Chow replies, “In a split second, we know who he (the character) is. That’s an entrance.” He applies this theory to his restaurant layout, Mr. Chow’s, which was one of THE celebrity hot spots in the late 1960s and early 1970s in London and New York City and is still in business today. The door of the restaurant was designed above the dining area, intended for people to make an entrance! You can listen to the episode here. Which you really, really should listen to. I know it’s a different streaming platform but hey, the theme of this week’s newsletter is all about being introduced to new things. Plus it helps my radio show grow. The tracklist it’s too damn good and includes songs by Rodriguez, The Subways, Lol Tolhurst, Childish Gambino, The Human League, Arc De Soleil and more! Open Mic I’ve been thinking about introductions because well, I was reciting my own. Last week, I bumped into a local musician and in our brief conversation, I found out she hosts Open Mic nights once a month. I told her about my radio show and that I am always on the hunt for new music, including local bands. She invited me to come to Open Mic Night and promote my radio show on stage, as it could lead to more listeners. The next Open Mic event just happened to be the following night. I told her I think about it but really in my head I was whining. “But it’s a school night,wahhhhh”. So rather than crafting together another social media post, I changed my game. My Sunday night stats of me couch lounging and grocery shopping aren’t helping my artist journey enough. And so I decided to attend my first Open Mic. Clothing is an introduction without words. I thought about my intro and…. my outfit. I went for 90s version-esque of Anita Pallenberg, rock n’ roll style icon. I sported a long-sleeved burgundy and mustard tone paisley top, black shorts, chunky boots, stacked rings and layered charm necklaces. 
Outfit Inspo --Anita Pallenberg and Keith Richards --photo from Pinterest
Before I headed out the door, I recited my “intro” aloud in front of the dog. With an un-amused look, he moseyed into another room. Hopefully, my speech doesn’t cause others to get up and leave. Ent. Bar Scene. As an extrovert, I don’t have a problem starting conversations with strangers but sometimes a case of stage fright appears. I’m called to the stage by the host to give my radio spiel to the crowd. I’m making my entrance. My introduction. As I stood in the spotlight, a wave of ums and ers began stirring up at the tip of my tongue. My mind was saying “your voice is starting shake. it’s all in your head. wow these people are really paying attention to me. talk slow. alright, wrap this thing up!” 
photo from Pageturners Lounge Instagram account
Let’s just say it was well worth stepping out of my comfort zone and into a new community of music fans. I was surprised that my two-minute intro about my radio show led to more introductions amongst the other musicians in the bar. It was a more welcoming experience than expected. And I totally go again. Radio spiel and all. Music Merch! And now, I’d like to introduce you to………A very special episode of Electric Radio Club! ….that will never be aired on the radio. That’s right. I’ve crafted and curated an episode of my radio show only available for purchase. Why? you may ask. In the spirit of Mixed CDs and pure nostalgia, I’ve curated a playlist themed around the story of Alice in Wonderland. This includes my usual radio banter that is slightly….dare I say, more poetic? This also means I’m not going to reveal the tracklist. It’s a mixtape after all. And might I add, this one is perfect for road trips! I’m over the moon with this special episode project. I made the CD insert and everything! And let me just say that this special episode is like Wonderland, there’s tricks around every corner. Why Alice in Wonderland? you may wonder. One of the reasons I love the story is all the different characters Alice meets and are guiding her along the way. The playlist is inspired by random encounters and unconventional paths. So consider me your guide, Rock n’ Roll Wonderland friend. What you'll get:
All New Radio Episode Catch the NEW episode of Electric Radio Club that happens on Monday June 30th at 8pm EST and Saturday July 5th at 11am EST (perfect for company on the patio) on www.em-radio.com This week's stellar song selection includes tracks by
me in the "recording studio" /living room in front of my favorite gallery wall
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