Is it just me?
Is it just me or am I the only one who is not digging the latest fashion of thick painted on eyebrows? Not that I couldn't grow a healthy pair of bushy brows, myself. I could even grow one continuous brow, but never mind that! I guess there are more pressing matters to write about but I resist getting political on this page at least.
What's New
But in music news.....! It's official now that Kat's Funkaholic, who is becoming much busier these days, will now be the Kat Orlando Band. I started down a path of wanting to pay tribute to bands like P-Funk, Brides of Funkenstein, Sly Stone, Rick James, Prince and more. However, that seemed to label us in one genre and a small group of venues that probably weren't even conducive to that. Besides, with so many requests for Jethro Tull and Janis Joplin, I'll take on the challenge of revisiting these songs that were part of my musical DNA anyway. So the process of booking and promoting continues. Our Florida schedule for the Kat Duo, Larry and I, is coming together nicely for 2020. Any places you go between Punta Gorda and Naples that you'd like to see us at, do reply your referrals here or at katorlando@hotmail.com
You Asked
So what's been happening with Larry's Band, Hidden Agenda, you ask? The popular R&B band that once rocked many of the clubs around Detroit, is still around! The limited market for supporting bands in general, causing many players to be musical hired guns and Larry's desire to just not work quite as hard has caused a shift in the way we pick and choose gigs. You can still find the band at select clubs, casino and festivals, just not as often. For bookings and info do go to hiddenagendaband.com
I'm on a Mission We'll see if I can get my songwriting mojo back. I may have to reach out to some of my past collaborators, one in Atlanta comes to mind, to get me started again. I'm still so proud of my current EP Happenstance Scenario II. I'm just trying to get to the people that DON'T know about it! While there are more outlets for music than ever, there is also more music out there than ever. Easy to get lost in the shuffle. If you have not yet, do go the music page here, listen and purchase where it shows links and prompts. If you want an actual CD, see me at my shows by going to the schedule page on here. Your support is most appreciated. Until then, I keep digging for inspiration by listening to my musical idols (of the past, yes). I WILL get my turntable running again to get back to the musical listening experience I once enjoyed, that kept me going in so many ways.
Age and the Supposed Rock Star
Sometimes it takes a while to actually learn things. Case in point: the music "business" on any level is very visual. While I've always prided myself on dressing the part, my Catholic girl inside of me always drew the line where modesty was concerned. I didn't want to attract unwanted attention to ME, just attention to the music.
Many years ago, while on the road in Flagstaff, AZ I was invited out after a show (a crowded night at a club with a rock band I was on the road with) to a Denny's or some place like that. I didn't do this often and I'm not sure why I accepted the invitation then. I was a naive young idiot, what can I say? It could have been Ted Bundy or somebody. But he was a gentleman from that standpoint, no issues. But over eggs, toast and decaf he did proceed to criticize the way I dressed- after the show. I changed from long flowing sleeved tops, well fitted pants, cool boots, wild hair to hiking boots and dorky looking glasses. (This is even how they described me in an article in Westword, the Denver Metro Times equivalent then. Accept the writer of this review of me, thought this was admirable.) According to him, I should have remained in star mode and maintain that image or I was going nowhere. I was once mistaken for a bag lady walking down the street by fans of our band, who adored our lead singer, while on the road in Newfoundland.
So now so many years later, I still dress down for roadie duties (Give me a break! Velcro is hell on nylon stockings!) I wear glasses because my contact lenses are done for the night. But I still try to accentuate what I still got- during the show! My legs! Taking the advise from another performer- friend, no names, who once told me to "Hike it up, Girl!" The Hat
I do wear a hat a lot and when I don't people ask why not? Others ask why- it does hide the face. Yes and sometimes that's what I want to do. I'm older. I also find shades and hair color are my friends these days. Yeah, I'm vain... but once again this business is too visual not be.