“Music is Life Itself” – Louis Armstrong

Throughout my life, I’ve always remained connected to my biggest passion – music. Influenced by my Grandfather, Merton, who was a big band musician, my grandmother, Helen, who was a concerto violinist and my big sister, Barb “Thee Animal” who is a drummer, I enthusiastically sang in school choirs, plays and ensembles growing up. When my acting work required me to use my singing voice on certain projects, I realized I wanted to do more of what I loved.

With the help of my close friend, singer/songwriter/guitarist, John Davidson, I began collaborating with fellow musicians, which led me down my own musical path – better late than never! At first, I was shy about it, I’d never had the courage to put myself out there in such a vulnerable way, but I decided life is short, and I would never forgive myself if I didn’t try. I auditioned for two top cover bands (Superhero/Daisy Train), and landed the gig. For over 10 years we’ve performed full time for thousands of audiences on countless stages, from Superbowl Fanfest, to corporate events, to festivals and the Vegas Strip. It’s been a wild ride, and the best training ever. This work also led me to guest sing with other bands and artists, which only made my passion stronger, and I found myself exploring many areas of music.

As my singing career became full-time, other opportunities presented themselves. I was invited to collaborate as a host and co-producer for various music-related projects which opened the door to working with many top artists. As Co-Host of the Metal Hall of Fame with Eddie Trunk (That Metal Show, Trunk Nation), and Host of the annual Bubba Bash to honor Neil Peart, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from the best. Through in-depth interviews with award-winning artists such as John Waite, Geoff Tate, Lita Ford, RATT, Kix, Winger, Fifth Angel, and many more, I’ve been educated and inspired, and hopefully I’ve shared that with other music fans who feel the same passion.

Ultimately, I knew at some point I would face a crucial moment in my career – either continue with what was working, or push myself outside the comfort zone and grow. I opted to go for the riskier path and follow what my heart was whispering all along – conquer your fear and take the chance to share your own stories and music, in your own words. I’ll be honest, it scared me, A LOT. It’s one thing to sing other people’s already successful songs, but quite another to create your own, exposing all your deepest vulnerabilities and feelings. As luck would have it, I was blessed to have support from Producer/Composer/Songwriter and top-tier Drummer, Ken Mary, whom I interviewed in 2023. He offered to give me some advice, so I nervously shared some of the poems I’d been writing throughout my life. With his encouragement and feedback, I embarked on the process of collaboration to turn these poems into my own original songs.

With Ken as co-writer, producer and drummer on my first single, “Now You’ve Gone” I’m excited to bring my own expression to the forefront, sharing my most personal stories and feelings, in my own authentic voice and sound.

“Now You’ve Gone” is a deeply personal song inspired by one of my favorite songwriters, Neil Peart, that deals with the experience of losing someone special. The lyrics explore the feelings that go along with grieving a loved one, as well as the hope of seeing them again in another way and carrying on their memory – something my own family experienced when my nephew, Christian, tragically lost his life at the age of 18. “Now You’ve Gone” is a tribute to both Neil and Christian, and was written to connect with all of us who have suffered or are currently experiencing loss in our lives.

As I embark on this new part of my musical journey, I am eager to share it with others. I have no idea how it will turn out, but it’s something I knew I had to do, because I would regret if I didn’t at least try – this is just how I live my life. And, if in the process my words touch or inspire even one other person, then that will be the icing on the cake.

My heart has, and always will be, in rock and roll….