January Newsletter
We made it to 2021! The world is still pretty crazy in so many different ways, and I know we are all just trying to find our way through. I believe creative pursuits of any and all kinds helps us do that. Some people write, some people knit, and some people fix up old cars. And we all find comfort and meaning in consuming the results of these creative pursuits. We read books, we walk through beautifully designed garden, and we partake in deliciously crafted meals. The ways in which we create and consume the results are endless.
For me music has always been the the medium I gravitate towards to help me make sense of the world and feel more connected to humanity - both listening to and creating it. And if any part of my journey somehow helps you along yours, I am both humbled and honored. And I hope you already know that you help me along mine.
So here is my new newsletter format. I hope you find something in it that adds to your day, week, month or longer. Please continue to share your thoughts, inspiration, and more. I am so grateful for your interest in my musical and creative journey, and look forward to our continued travels together.
Upcoming Show
Linden Tree Coffee House Streams Memorable Music
Kipyn Martin and Kirsten Manville
Saturday, February 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Zoom show livestreamed to Facebook
Do you have any song requests for this show? I have some newish songs I will play, but would also love to know what you would like to hear.
I am excited to join Kipyn Martin for a co-bill presented by the Linden Tree Coffee House. To be a part of the zoom audience, pre-registration is required. The show is free but donations will be accepted. The zoom audience means we will be able to interact and hear applause and laughter, all in real time, which will be wonderful - it may as close as we can get to live music right now. I hope you will join us for a little respite from what is happening in the world.
Creative Musings
I decided to name this section "Creative Musings" because of the little bit of a play on words: in Greek and Roman mythology a Muse is one of nine goddesses who encouraged the arts and sciences. Today, someone may talk about a muse as a source of inspiration. But I have learned that my muse usually won't show up, unless I make space for it. And that would be both mental and physical space. I need to unclutter my mind, and unclutter my schedule. Only then does it seem that the magic happens. This is decidedly less romantic then the thought that we are struck by inspiration and whole works of art pour out of us. Maybe that happens for some people, but it is not the way it works for me.
One of the most successful tools I have used to unclutter my mind is writing morning pages, as described in The Artist's Way. (If aren't already familiar with this book, and are looking for a way to bring more creativity in your life I highly recommend it). These are three pages of random thoughts - anything that is on my mind I just put down on paper: I could use more sleep. My co-worker really annoyed my yesterday when she heated up broccoli in the microwave. I need to remember to pick up dog food. My skin is so dry; I need to find a new brand of lotion. It doesn't matter what it is. Anything in your head. But I find if I do this, the thoughts stop taking space in my head, and it leaves room for other things: lyrics, melodies, new ideas. And it makes me more focused in general - I'm much more productive at work, in organizing my house, etc. I have been doing morning pages consistently for over 10 years, and I don't think I could stop. I would have some sort of withdrawal.
Uncluttering my calendar is a little more challenging. What I have come to realize though is I don't need big chunks of time. Even 15 minutes on the subway to work on that second verse, or a half hour at lunch to sketch out the melody of a song works for me. And those little pieces of creative productivity add up - to a song, an album, whatever. And they keep the creative juices flowing - the pipe is always primed so that if I do end up with a longer session, I am ready for it.
One of the reasons I have this on my mind is my dear friend Carolyn bought me for Christmas the book The Artist's Way Every Day: A Year of Creative Living. It is a wonderful reminder to make room for creativity. And I am really going to try to do that as much as possible during 2021. How do you find ways to be creative? I love hearing about other people's creative processes.
Good Stuff
Good Reading - Can't Slow Down: How 1984 Became Pop's Blockbuster Year
Another Christmas gift, this one from my hubby. As a child of the 80s this is the music I grew up with. But any fan of 80s music will enjoy this behind the scenes account of how and why pop music reached new heights in 1984.
Good Listening - The Dream by Hailey Whitters
At the end of every year I take a look at the "Best of" lists around the web. This album was on more than one "Best of Americana in 2020" list. I like the whole album very much by standouts to me are Ten Year Town, Red Wine and Blue, and Heartland.
Good Eats - Creamy White Bean Soup with Kale and Gremolata
I love to cook, and I do find it a very creative thing to do. I love to take recipes and put my own spin on them. I did that a bit here, but mostly I just kept the recipe as it is and it was delicious! If you are looking for something hearty and healthy on a winter's day, this one is a winner. :) The gremolata is a bit of work, and it's very tasty, but honestly I don't think it is totally necessary.
What good stuff have you all discovered lately?
Mining Country Music's Past
I'm not quite sure about the title for this section. But I like the idea of mining music history for those diamonds - great songs, artists, etc. So we'll see if it stays or I change it.
During the winter I always think of the gem of a country song A Tombstone Every Mile that was actually written about Maine! I first heard it at a Marty Stuart concert (he's one of my favs). He was playing here in Massachusetts, and since he was in New England decided to play a New England country song. How have I never heard this before? I thought to myself.
It was written by Dan Fulkerson and released in 1965 by Dick Curless, who had a hit with it. It was inspired by a hairpin turn in Haynesville, Maine that especially dangerous to truckers shipping potatoes down to Boston. Well crafted and a little dark, I find it moving. It has been my list of songs to cover for a long time. Maybe that will be another goal for 2021!
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