If worried about how to navigate 30a songwriters festival the problem is all inside your head. Of course Paul Simon says, you need to make a plan man. The answer is easy if you take it logically. I’d like to help you in your struggle to avoid rookie festival mistakes.

Mimi’s tips to navigate 30a Songwriters Festival 2022

1.0 The best tip ever is to make a plan. The festival boasts 289 shows from January 14-17 in 30 plus venues. Since the schedule is released, take time to zero in on your top musician picks and make a list. Please build a list around the time slots and venues. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a Greek tragedy with no way out.

2.0 Before the festival, study the entire list of musicians and songwriters. Now is the perfect time to use technology in order to listen to artists that you’re not familiar with. Print the list and use as a guide to help navigate. On the way to work, traveling or while cooking in your kitchen, shout out to Alexa, Spotify etc. Grill Man and I have discovered great musicians with this random tip.

Review the current line-up and listen. Sadly if you find yourself without tickets this year, make a plan for 2023. Once tickets go on sale, they will not last for too long.

2022 30a Songwriters Festival Lineup

3. Define your ideal listening venue. Keep in mind that its Coastal Florida in January. Do you prefer indoor or outdoor while jamming? If outdoor, bring an extra wrap or portable blanket to share. Gloves, hats, scarves are great to layer up and layer off. Are you happy with standing room only or seating in a small or large listening room? If you scan the venue’s website ahead of time you will be happier with your choices.

Plan for nourishment and foodie options

4.0 It is all about the music. After a long day of listening to music food is vital. If you want adult beverages, food and water is part of your survival skills. Make time to eat in between venues or dine while listening to your favorite artist. Look at the menus for the locations that provide food and keep this in mind when creating your schedule. Grill Man’s entry into Hangry-Land is to be avoided. I still love him when he goes there but he loses his pleasing personality.

Seaside and Grayton Food and Beyond Options

Check out the random samplings available around the center of Seaside and on 30a from shopping to food trucks and air steams. Here are a few of the spots that we linger in occasionally.

Breakfast or Lunch: Black Bear Bread Co. has multiple locations but I love the Grayton spot for sure.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner or Nightcap– Bud & Alleys. The Pizza Bar, The Taco Bar and don’t forget to check out the Rooftop Bar for stunning views.

Gourmet Market- Modica Market Items are a bit pricey but the gourmet selection is amazing. There is something to be said for accessibility and not having to get back out into traffic or drive anywhere. Full range of wine, beer, pastries and most everything else that you will need for 30a Songwriters Festival 2022.

How to travel from venue to venue during 30a Songwriters Festival?

5.0 Indeed if you plan to enjoy adult beverages, select your venues and housing accordingly. 30A Songwriters venues are distributed on 30a throughout South Walton. Hop on the bus Gus, you don’t need to discuss much. From limousines to Taxi, Uber or Lyft as needed make a plan, man and drop your keys.

If my memory serves I recall more than one unnamed group riding a bicycle to see shows. Of course, this is only a good idea for shows during the day. Also, keep in mind that you don’t want a PWI- Peddling While Intoxicated. No one wants to land on the news for evading police on a low-speed-pursuit.

Find the musician that you will love next

6.0 Plan to attend the acts that you really want to see. If you think that this artist is crazy popular and the venue is small, go early and stake a spot. Otherwise you risk standing in a long line for the one group that you didn’t want to miss.

Never underestimate the zeal of groupies to get up close and personal with you while trying to get closer to the object of their affection. Meanwhile, you may discover a new artist to love. Grill Man and I have discovered several artists using this method for example the dreamy Chris Stills, lovely Liz Longley and dynamic Reverend Shawn Amos and The Brotherhood.

More than once I have been surprised by the exceptional musicianship of a band that I had never heard of. As an example a Nu Grass Band was playing at AJ’s which for us was the “band before the band we wanted to see”. Old Salt Union came out and rocked the house. Much to my rock-n-roll and R & B soul, I actually liked it. After the encore was over, the crowd started throwing money on the stage for them to keep playing.

What about Covid and 30a Songwriters Festival?

7. Last year covid killed the festival and left many avid music lovers in mourning. This year the festival has implemented a new covid policy “requiring valid ID, Vaccine card or proof of professionally administered negative covid tests within 72 hours of festival for all artists, volunteers or ticket holders. ” The Watercolor box office will issue wristband for use during the weekend.

8. Since this year the wristbands will also include a chip that allows you to upload credit card data to easily pay for food, drinks, merch etc. The press release was unclear to me if this was at all locations or a select few. If you choose to use this feature “you can count on shorter faster lines and contact free transactions.” Of course the cynic in me wants to know if I would be tracked during event? How will this information be used, sold and how safe is the data? Inquiring minds…..

What else should I need to bring ?

9.Of course pack an emergency travel kit ahead of time. Here are a few options for your travel pack:

Snacks, protein bars, waters, headache or allergy meds, portable phone charger, rain poncho, antiseptic wipes, batteries for camera or charger, phone charger, disposable cameras, gloves, extra wool wraps and flask of your favorite “patience-juice”

10. While enjoying the festival take time to enjoy the lovely natural settings around 30a. All along the water ways, nature is calling you for a walk on the beach or in one of the State Parks. Go early and get your walking miles in before the music starts and the calories pile up.

Enjoy it all while it lasts

Clearly, if you arrive to 30a Songwriters Festival with a plan you will be able to make the most of the event. Keep in mind, planning is a guide only. Be flexible and adapt as necessary. The best discoveries will surprise you when you allow yourself to be open. Do not let Mother Nature’s curve balls or long lines ruin your pleasing personality. Be kind and lean into the joy of live music. Celebrate that you are alive and on your way to another live show despite Messy Rona.

In summary, I hope that Mimis tips to navigate 30a Songwriters Festival 2022 may help you avoid rookie mistakes. Check out my impressions from the past of 30a Songwriters Festival for additional tips. Mimi’s Tips to Navigate 30aSongwriters Festival 2020

Grasshopper, seek first to know your own journeys beginning and end…But in this seeking, know patience.”

– Master Po.

Alexa, shout out to Paul Simon, 50 Ways to Leave your Lover

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A friend familiar with our music interests mentioned how much we would enjoy her show. Grill Man and I started listening to her music months before the concert date. By the time the show rolled around, I believe that he was smitten. Little did I know, he would be head over heels with her sultry sound and hard driving guitar playing.

The band walked onstage dressed in black and wearing sheer joy of the knowledge of what was about to hit us even if we didn’t. Excitement started building in the audience as show time starting getting closer. With swirling lights she walked on stage clearly in command of her band and ready to bring it.

Fish arrived perfectly attired in skin-tight black pants paired with a black jacket and leopard high heels. Blonde wild curls adorned her as a symbol to the wild heart inside this petite woman. After the first song titled Bulletproof, Grill Man released the breath he had been holding, looked at me and said “Wow!”

We watched in anticipation as keyboard, drums, trombone, saxophone and oh the guitars moved onstage. Fish would have plenty to choose from including a silver glittery guitar, white guitar with hot pink lips, animal print guitar and cigar box guitar. Clearly, Samantha is a woman that knows fashion and her accessories even if its a guitar.

Samantha wields a large sound that is delivered from deep down within her soul and softens as she desires. From the moment she steps on stage she is in full control of her body, instruments, band and the audience. Not to mention the powerhouse that is her voice which lures you in as a fan instantly.

One of Fairhope’s finest plays in the band

Samantha’s band consists of Phil Breen, Scott Graves, Christopher Sawyer Spies, Harry Robert Morter Jr and Christopher Alexander. Spies brings in a Fairhope connection to the band which I love. Musicians from the Spies family have been sharing music with us for awhile now. Samantha clearly selects her musicians and partners with intent.

And a new label Wild Heart Records

Recently, Fish joined forces with her manager Rueben Williams to start Wild Heart Records. “Artist are chosen because they have something that’s unique and very soulful to offer to the World of Music. ” stated the new label. Wild Hearts has signed Jonathon Long and has a new album on this label. Prior to this event, I had never heard of Jonathon Long.

I guess that is indicative of how massive, complex and ever changing the music industry is. Long gives off this very gentle giant vibe. Musician does not play by talent alone. No, it must take an enormous drive and pure love of the music to keep at it daily. Constant attention to craft, songwriting, self marketing, unlimited road travel, and a helping hand. Clearly Fish is paying it forward and desires to assist other artists like Jonathon Long.

Fish treated us to a tasty appetizer of Jonathon Long (formerly known as Boogie) as he joined Samantha on stage. Wielding his gorgeous guitar he shared his blues with us and they are fine. For a taste of the tunes visit this video from WWOZ . Or better yet, buy the new album titled Jonathon Long at Wild Heart Records. Certainly, I love the funky track “Pour Another Drink” which is suffused with New Orleans sounds.

New album Kill or Be Kind

Her voice sings of joy, pain, love, longing, and everything in between. The music is just that good. Samantha Fish is one hell of a performer and a force to be reckoned with. Fish performed a few songs from her album Kill or Be Kind. Let me just say, she killed it. Certainly an entire audience was captivated and filled with forever fans with her Brains, Beauty and Slaying a guitar as Samantha Fish.

After the show, I wanted to know more about this young singer, songwriter, guitarist and where she came from. Kansas City surely is proud of the legend in the making. Samantha’s parents filled the house with music and it fanned the fire for her dreams. From playing drums to mastering the guitar and her voice Fish has put in the time for her dreams.

Dreams that are supported by hard work, weary travel schedule, ambition and surrounding herself with the right mentors. Certainly Samantha Fish is smart besides being a beauty. Clearly she has learned how to operate as an artist, business woman and mentor to other artists. This alone has won my respect and admiration.

Numerous children and adults long to be famous. Some people want to play music and be on the world stage. Many do not realize the long hours that are required to become a master at anything. Pure devotion, relentless spirit, and a lifetime of action is required to become to even decent at a skill let alone the magic to be noticed. You must put in your time and walk the never ending road of dreams.

Where may I see Samantha Fish?

In my dream world, Fish would bring her band filled with the Fairhope connection to our zip code. In fact, I would be happy to host a house party for this band. Wouldn’t that be fun? Until then, don’t miss the show in Pensacola on November 8th at Vinyl Music Hall. Or check out her non-stop touring schedule because she is surely coming to a city near you. Are you ready for Brains, Beauty and Slaying a guitar as Samantha Fish?

Lagniappe: Grill Man and I bought an album and stood in line for her to sign. While in line we were able to gawk at the boys that were besotted in more than one way. Samantha Fish was more than a lady or kind to everyone even the frat boys who had a tough time remembering how to operate their phone. Bless their frat hearts, Girl has skills!

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Who are The Tall Pines? I asked myself the same question a couple of years ago while attending 30a Songwriters Festival. Our friend Dr Music suggested that we add them to our list of artists to see during the festival. With Dr Musics recommendation we joined the crowd at Central Square Records for a listen and waited with anticipation for The Tall Pines.

Who are The Tall Pines?

The Tall Pines consist of Connie Petruk and Christmas Davis. Although band consists of only two people their singing and musical talent deliver a big sound. Always playing interesting lyrics that draw you in with emotion, heart, talent and humor.

Connie is mesmerizing with her vocals while somehow shaking a tambourine and playing drums on an alligator skinned suitcase. Truly, I was in awe of her ability to do all three at once. Wearing a smile and high energy she rocks a caftan like no other person that I have ever seen.

Connie’s partner Chrismas AKA Chris is a great match with his guitar skills, strong vocals and high energy. Chris is a gifted songwriter. He writes music that you may connect with about life, love and even Dirty Cousins. You will find music steeped in his Southern roots filled with flavors of heaven and earthly temptations.

All of the music is good whether it’s songs from the past or world as they see it now filled with beauty and heartbreak. In my opinion, creative talent is attractive and exudes a certain sex appeal that draws you in. The Tall Pines have “it”. However, you may choose to describe what “it” is. Grill Man and I have seen The Tall Pines lure a silent audience from toe tappin’ to foot stompin’ and off their chairs.

We were intrigued with the idea of hosting The Tall Pines in our home for friends. Did we want to host a house party? We liked the band; would we like them once they stayed in our home? Dr Music helped us with the details and making connections with Connie and Chris.

What kind of music do they play?

With a date selected, we went about the normal routine of planning a party. Soon after the invites went out, I called Dr Music and asked him to describe the genre of music for The Tall Pines. I loved The Tall Pines, but I needed to be able to describe it to my friends. At times, their unique sound makes you think of a multitude of musical styles. Dr Music gave me an answer about the genre, but I realized he was smarter than me when it came to music. I had no clue about genre he mentioned.

With time in flight, our date arrived before I knew it. Grill Man and I were looking forward to hosting The Tall Pines. Wearing smiles and happy hearts our guests arrived at our home. Grill Man tended 35 pounds of Boston Butts slow cooking while I introduced our guests to our little town. Time was short so we would hit the highlights including a visit to see Dr Music before the show started.

Fast track to the private house concert and while our guests were preparing for the show we waited in anticipation. Friends arrived with a dish to pass and beverages to share. After breaking bread, we settled into the back deck for our musical treat. Our new friends did not disappoint and delivered the “shack shakin’ foot-stompin'” music they are famous for.

As night closed in on the day, The Tall Pines belted out sweet soulful songs about love and loss. A give and take exists in the melody as lyrics weave in and out of the show. The Tall Pines represent the music world beautifully with their desire to create and share music even for random strangers.

Live music delivers

Everyone enjoyed the show and will surely return if we manage to lure Connie and Chris back to our secret hideaway. While they were visiting, I tried to tempt them with breakfast on the porch, Southern BBQ, Conecuh sausage, Mimi’s Never Fail Spirited Blueberry Bundt Cake and more.

Grill Man and I thoroughly enjoyed introducing The Tall Pines to Fairhope. All of our friends loved the music, house concert experience and meeting the artists. I will let you in on a little secret, as great as the music is that wasn’t my favorite part. Our conversations that we shared on the porch over breakfast and coffee were special.

Discussions ranging from life as we know it in Alabama to the fast paced electric Manhattan. Small towns versus big city life taking into account things we love and challenges for both. Subjects ranging from music, cooking, traveling, life in general, politics and our ever changing world. It is refreshing to speak with someone that may share a difference of opinion on a topic and is willing to discuss without evoking anger.

How else will we learn from each other if we can not take the time to listen and hear another view point? Clearly, our environment, families, education, income and overall life experience help form our opinions. If we don’t open our minds to engage with others how can we improve our world?

In our corner of the world, we were happy to host Fairhope’s Sweet Gift of Music from The Tall Pines. Our home filled with original music, love, great food, interesting people and conversations from all walks of life. What is better than that?

Love from Mimi’s Kitchen

Lagniappe– Report to www.TheTallPines.com and pre-order the newest release Skeletons of Soul. A great gift for anyone that loves soul, music and vinyl.

House Concerts– If you want to be added to the list subscribe to my blog for future updates on Mimi-Happenings.

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