So, it’s hard to believe after all this time that the record is finally done and uploaded digitally to 35 different music sites. NO more tweaking, no more remixes, no more nothing. It is what it is. I’ve been holding onto it for a long time and it’s good to let it go. The idea that you have to let something out of your hands to receive new things, is at the forefront of my mind.
I think about when I started this record and how much things have changed over the past couple years. It is a real trip. A new family, a new marriage, new experiences, new growth it’s bound to be time to let the next thing manifest. I am one of those people that likes to hold onto things, it’s hard for me to let go , but now it’s time.
Look for it on I Tunes or your favorite digital distributor, June 21st
Christa Mae & The Brigade
The Truth Is…
I have had a influx of spiritual hip hop into my life recently, thanks to my fiance. This is a new concept, even though I have been accused of only liking “back pack rap”. This is mostly true. I am not really into “slappin a ho” kinda rappers. I really appreciate those who are out there elevating us, not trying to bring us down. I personally believe we are affected by what we listen to, what we see and what we read. If we put negative , degrading words into our minds we start to identify with them and believe them.
That is why I present to you The Ambassador. He lays down truth and strength, not needing material things to make him a man. If you have a moment in time check him out.
Just wanted to let you know that after our gig on Sunday, we decided we are finally ready to give the album the final push to complete it. It seems like an awesome time to do it. The singles have been out for several monthes now and I hope you have had a chance to listen to them and download them for free. If not, please check the audio/video page for your opportunity. Those songs will be available even after the record release, on myspace and on this website. If you like what you hear, hopfully you will enjoy the whole record. Thank you again for your support.
Man, what a fun show we had at the Tiki Bar last night opening up for Manali! It was so fun to play at such a kick ass venue. The sound was soooo awesome, the band was on fire and the energy was moving! What a night! I hopped off the stage and my heart was racing. I can only imagine the rush of a big show. I have played a few from time to time, but not really with the full band. I have been a solo acoustic act for so long, it almost seems unbelievable when I get to rock out with the guys. If I am dreaming, please don’t wake me up.
My brother one time said that if he had to pick his favorite artist of all time if would be Johnny Cash. I thought that was so true since Johnny really knew no boundaries and found his way into the hearts of everyone from bikers to farmers. He just had something that had universal appeal.
It got me thinking, if I had to pick one person I would have to go with Bob Marley. His universal appeal came from the fact that he spoke to the people. He sang and wrote songs with intent and purpose, to celebrate life, love and freedom. His songs marked the struggle of the oppressed and gave strength to the weak, and it sounded so so sweet that people can help but listen. Check it out for yourself!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlk9Sj4Ns2k
This Labor Day R & R stands for rock and reggae. The full brigade is coming out to the Tiki Bar this Sunday night with an awesome line up of the best hip hop and reggae around. The Tiki Bar has it’s own share of history playing host to Sublime and No Doubt back in the day. Just type Tiki Bar into youtube and you can spend plenty of time checking out some of the live music that has gone down there. I am reuniting with an old friend of mine Mic Hempstead and he’s bringing together a line up that is sure to be a good time. Come check us out 9 pm. Come early and stay late~ Why not , it’s labor day!
1700 Placentia Costa Mesa, CA 92626
There is something in the timber and beauty of Tracy Chapman that almost makes me stop breathing. The weight is hard to ignore. I think there are artists out there that have a God given talent that now one else can touch. A lot of people can sing, a lot of people think they can sing, but if you come up against a force like Tracy you have to just stop for a moment and take in the raw natural beauty that she is, it’s almost like sitting a redwood forrest and breathing it in. If you get the chance check out Tracy Chapman’s record Let it Rain, and see what I mean.
Well, if you are anything like me, I tend to run a lot more on inspiration than disclipline when it comes to the creative process. I have always been a bit lazy like that. My guitar has acted a lot like a best friend I run to sobbing because of heart break, confusion, disillusioment, or in joy and moments of gratitude. To be honest mostly lately I have just felt so busy all the time it is hard to carve out much time to pick up my ol guitar. So although I haven’t written many new songs lately it feels like a storm is brewing and some creative clouds could be on the horizon. So check the forecast and I’ll let you know if there is a chance of rain.
So for all you folks out there who have mellowed with age a bit, maybe a night of acoustic music at a place called the Library might not be such a bad idea. It sounds pretty good to me. I am trying to get connected with the old days when I use to play by myself in coffeehouses, subway cars, and on street corners. It always feels a little more intimate and spontaneous to do so. It’s a chance to see where all these songs came from and maybe where they are going. So if you don’t really feel like bangin’ at the club and getting sweaty on the dance floor come on out to the Library, but if you would rather do some shots and get a little crazy, I won’t hold it against ya.
Hey all,
Just wanted to let you know that I am playing a local venue on Saturday August 28th. It’s a cool little spot called The Library in the hip and happening corner of Long Beach on Broadway. The Library is a sweet little place to chill and I always have a good time and a low ket set there. They also have great drinks and desserts to nosh on , so come on out. I am having a special guest Solo Pony come out and do a short set as an added bonus. If you want to hear what he is up to check out his myspacepage at www.myspace.com/solopony He will be doing an acoustic set to mark the next stage in his musical evolution. Not to be missed!
The Library is located at 3412 Broadway, Long Beach CA 90803