Eye of the Rabbit
Ambar Ramirez 16
Artist Jon Middlebrook: Taking Graffiti to the Next Level Molly Britt 18 Tattoo Talk Carmen Macri 22
Judith Hill: From the Background to Center Stage Rob Nicholson 38 Folk Singer-Songwriter David Wilcox Carries
His ‘Musical Medicine’ Back to the Concert Stage Mario Tarradell
45
Trends we move on from and move on with in 2023 Molly Britt 46 Archives
TERESA SPENCER general manager
ROB NICHOLSON sales director
MOLLY BRITT account executive/contributor
AMBAR RAMIREZ multi-media journalist/creative
CARMEN MACRI multi-media journalist/creative
JOHN M. PHILLIPS, ESQ. publisher
KERRY SPECKMAN copy editor
RAIN HENDERSON designer
Behind the cover: Carmen Macri’s Tattoo Talk
The new year is calling your name, Aries. January has your longterm professional goals in mind. What better way to ring in 2023 than a new promotion? Mercury retrogrades until Jan. 20, and, for once, it is in your favor! ’Tis the season for making money, honey.
You’re a sensible and reliable sign, Taurus, but when push comes to shove you tend to be quite stubborn, especially when it comes to change. And if you thought 2022 was hard, wait for what 2023 has in store for you. While the thought of new friendships, a new job and a new lifestyle may seem scary now, just know that the universe is doing its job of taking out the trash to make room for the gold. So put your stubbornness and resistance to change aside and open your arms this new year to the new you.
It is finally time to break out of your winter hibernation and sync back into your social butterfly nature. Spend time with your friends, go to your favorite local dive bar and kiss that stranger (with consent, of course.) Make the new year your bitch, Gemini.
Like the moon that rules you, Cancer, you will be making waves of changes this new year. All the work you put in last year was just the preparation stage for what’s to come for you in 2023. You will be learning a lot of new things and getting rid of past grudges. Within endings are new beginnings.
Don’t let your confidence flutter, Leo. Last year had its ups and downs, but you made it through (relatively) unscathed. Mercury retrogrades for the first half of January, and while this may seem exhausting, your ruling sun moves through your wellness sector, keeping your peace. Take it slow in January. Now is not the time to rush.
After much-needed rest and recovery in 2022, it is time to get back to your regular scheduling. Once the Mars retrograde in Gemini ends Jan. 12, you will reconnect with your high sense of commitment and ambition, meaning you will be focused and ready to tackle any job task that comes your way. Still, with hard work comes play, so have fun when you can!
You’re in luck, Libra … literally. Being one of three signs predicted to have immense luck in 2023, things may look really good for you right off the bat. But if you know anything about luck or how the universe works, you know that nothing comes easy. So while it’s OK to throw your hands in the air and let the universe do its magic, it doesn’t hurt to put in the work yourself every once and a while.
After an intense year, all you want to do is relax, right? Wrong. Your co-ruler, Mars, will remain retrograde until Jan. 20, meaning it will be difficult to stop the ball from moving. The universe is not ready for you to take a (much-needed) rest. Friends and money are to be made!
Looks like Cupid has his eye on you this new year, Sagittarius. Once the Mars retrograde in Gemini ends on Jan. 12, the frustration or resentment you have been feeling in your relationships will surely decrease. You’ll finally be on the same page as your lover and be glowing because of it.
Love is in the air, Capricorn. Mars being in retrograde is bringing a tidal wave of lust your way. It is time to finally trust your gut and be who you want to be. Break up with that toxic boyfriend/girlfriend. And remember: never let a significant other stop you from finding your soulmate.
The last couple of months have been hard for you in the sense of creativity, Aquarius. Things that usually come easy to you have come with a lot of work, but that is all predicted to change this year. Sharpay Evans said it best, “It’s out with the old and in with the new,” and you will kickstart this new season feeling inspired, creative and romantic.
You are reeling in the new year mixin’ and minglin’ as January is the time for socializing. It’s also time to step out of your comfort zone and into the spotlight. After the massive New Year’s Eve party hangover, it is time to hop back on the saddle and giddy up! No more Mr. Shy Guy (or Gal).
Jan. 1
Venardos Circus St. Augustine Amphitheatre theamp.com
First Coast Opera presents “Die Fledermaus” Lewis Auditorium at Flager College, St. Augustine firstcoastopera.com
Jan. 5
“Elvis in Concert: The Story of The King” Thrasher-Horne Center thcenter.org
Jan. 6
Elvis Birthday Bash starring Mike Albert, Scot Bruce and The Big E Band Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Jan. 6-Feb. 5
“A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline” Alhambra Theatre & Dining alhambrajax.com
Jan. 8
The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine's "Sleeping Beauty” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
Jan. 10
An Evening With Neil deGrasse Tyson Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Jan. 10-15
Disney's “Aladdin” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
Jan. 12
“Untold Stories: Lightning Strikes” Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Jan 12-15
Saint Augustine Film Festival Various locations staugfilmfest.com
Jan. 13
The New York Bee Gees Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Jan. 13-15
“Diary of Anne Frank” The Waterworks, St. Augustine apextheatrejax.com
Jan. 12-29
“Oleanna” Limelight Theatre. St. Augustine limelight-theatre.org Jan. 13-29
“Last Train to Nibroc” Theatre Jacksonville theatrejax.com
Jan. 14
Shanghai Circus
Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts fscjartistseries.org
Jan. 15
Miranda Sings featuring Colleen Ballinger Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Jan. 15-Feb. 5
“Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical” Players by the Sea Theatre playersbythesea.org
Jan. 19-Feb. 4 “Footloose”
Amelia Musical Playhouse, Fernandina Beach ameliamusicalplayhouse.com
Jan. 21
“The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
“Let’s Go Science” Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts fscjartistseries.org
Jan. 24-25
“Riverdance: 25th Anniversary” Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
Jan. 27
Wong Kar-Wai Mini Film Film Festival: “Chunking Express” The Waterworks, St. Augustine staugfilmfest.com
Jan. 27-29
Jurassic World Live VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
Jan. 27-Feb. 5
Mark Twain's “Is He Dead?” The Island Theatre, Fleming Island theislandtheater.com
Jan. 31
Wings: Dublin Irish Dance Thrasher-Horne Center thcenter.org
Words by Ambar Ramirez
Sorry to all those who carry the Chinese zodiac sign of the Tiger, but your time is up. But if you were born in 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999 or 2011, you’re in luck: 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit, the Water Rabbit to be more exact. And it looks like we are in for a lucky new year. But before we get into what exactly is in store for us in terms of the Chinese zodiac, also known as “Shengxiao,” let’s do a deep dive into how Shengxiao came to be in the first place and how it is different compared to the zodiac we use.
It is unclear exactly what day Shengxiao was created, but it was officially identified 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty rule. Unlike the zodiac we regularly use in the United States, the Chinese zodiac is based on years rather than months and is based on the lunar calendar. And as the zodiac uses the stars and constellations to map out horoscopes, Shengxiao uses a 12year cycle in which an animal signifies each year.
But why create and use the Chinese zodiac when we have our own (seemingly) accurate astrological zodiac? Well, of course, that has to do with different cultures. But (just for fun) it can also be tied to an old legend. It is said Yu Di, the Great Jade Emperor, “ruler of the heavens,” wanted a way to measure time. Instead of
devising a regular calendar as a mortal would, Yu Di organized a race in which he challenged all the animals to cross the mighty river. The first 12 to make it across would earn a spot on the calendar and the zodiac. Bonus, the animals to make it across the mighty river would also be protectors of the heavenly realms.
So it was decided that the Rat, the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Sheep, the Monkey, the Rooster, the Dog and the Pig, would make up the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Each of the 12 animals is combined with the natural elements, fire, earth, metal, water and wood with a female (yin) and male (yang) form. And each has its own characteristics. The Rabbit is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle and considered to be the luckiest.
Rabbits are characterized as honest, stylish, virtuous, private, calm and thoughtful. But before you throw your paws in the air in celebration of the seemingly positive year to come, Rabbits are also known for being withdrawn, oversensitive and unpredictable. While this may be an ambitious and lucky year if you’re a Rabbit, don’t be surprised when big changes come your way.
All trivia games are general knowledge unless otherwise noted. Don’t see your favorite trivia spot?
Drop us a hint at mail@folioweekly.com with “trivia” in the subject line.
• The Brix Taphouse (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Donovan’s Irish Pub, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boulevard (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Julington Creek (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Avondale, 7 p.m. Mellow Mushroom–Durbin Pavilion Drive, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Fleming Island, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–River City/Northside, 7 p.m.
• Mellow Mushroom–Tinseltown, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fleming Island (music bingo), 7 p.m.
Treylor Park (pop culture trivia), 9 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Fleming Island (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Nocatee, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–San Pablo, 7 p.m.
• Harps American Grill, 7 p.m.
Hoptinger–5 Points (music bingo), 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Julington Creek, 7 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill & Wings–Neptune Beach, 7 p.m.
• Island Wing Company–Southside, 7 p.m.
• Jax Craft Beer, 7 p.m.
• Jerry’s Sports Grille, 7 p.m.
• Raindogs, 7 p.m.
• Sahara Cafe, 7 p.m.
• Southern Grill, 7 p.m.
• Xtreme Wings Sports Bar and Grille, St. Johns, 7 p.m.
• Flask & Cannon / V Pizza (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• King Maker Brewing (Name That Tune), 7:30 p.m.
• Lynch’s Irish Pub (music bingo), 7:30 p.m.
• Time Out Sports Bar, 7:30 p.m.
• Surfer the Bar (pop culture trivia), 9:30 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra (music bingo), 6:30 p.m.
V Pizza–Mandarin (pop culture), 6:30 p.m.
• The Beacon, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• Cruisers Grill, 7 p.m.
Dick’s Wings–Mandarin, 7 p.m.
• Firefly Bay, 7 p.m.
• Island Wing Company–Southside Boulevard (music bingo), 7 p.m.
Mellow Mushroom–Jacksonville Beach, 7 p.m.
• Scarlett O’ Hara’s, St. Augustine, 7 p.m.
• V Pizza–Fleming Island (pop culture trivia), 7 p.m.
• Veterans United Craft Brewery, 7 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.
• Harps American Grill (pop culture), 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–5 Points, 7:30 p.m.
• Hurricane Grill–Fleming Island, 7:30 p.m.
• King Maker Brewing, 7:30 p.m.
• Time Out Sports Grill, 7:30 p.m
• The Brix Taphouse (pop culture trivia), 8 p.m.
• Hamburger Mary’s (drag bingo, 21+), 8 p.m.
• Hoptinger–Jacksonville Beach, 9 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m. Kava and Company–San Marco (every other Thursday), 7 p.m.
• Mr. Chubby’s Wings–Ponte Vedra, 7 p.m.
• Whiskey Jax–Baymeadows, 7 p.m. Flask & Cannon / V Pizza, 7:30 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–St Augustine, 7:30 p.m.
• Hoptinger–Jax Beach (music bingo), 9 p.m.
• Hamburger Mary’s (HamBingo), 2 p.m.
• Dick’s Wings–Atlantic Boulevard, 7 p.m.
• Ann O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 8 p.m. (first and third Sunday)
Some shows are age restricted (and with good reason) and may have a dress code and/or drink minimum. Don’t see your favorite ha-ha hole on the list? Humor us and let us know at stories@folioweekly.com. #callbeforeyouhaul
JAN. 4
Improv Comedy Night
Colonial Oak Music Park, St Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 6-8
Katherine Blanford Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JAN. 6-7
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.
The Blue Show (adults only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JAN. 7
Jeff Leeson: Sorry I’m Not Kevin Hart Tour 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
JAN. 11
Improv Comedy Night
Colonial Oak Music Park thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 13-14
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m.
The Blue Show (adults only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JAN. 14
Katt Williams: 23 And Me Tour
VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
JAN. 12-14
Ali Siddiq Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JAN. 18
David Nihill Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
Colonial Oak Music Park, St Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 19-21
Ginger Billy Comedy Zone comedyzone.com JAN. 20-21
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m. The Blue Show (adults only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JAN. 21
Pinky Patel Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JAN. 25
Improv Comedy Night
Colonial Oak Music Park, St Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 26-28
Michael Blaustein Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
JAN. 27-28
The Main Event, 7:30 p.m. The Blue Show (adults only), 10 p.m. First Coast Comedy firstcoastcomedy.com
JAN. 28
Chris D'Elia Live Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxevents.com
OPEN MIC NIGHTS
TUESDAYS Birdies facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints
WEDNESDAYS
Comedy Zone comedyzone.com
The Walrus Thewalrusjax.com
Kava & Company–San Marco kavaandcompany.com
Jeff Leeson
The
• Featured artists include Mary Atwood, Cookie Davis, Denise-Sawyer-Johnson Lawrence Walden and Lynn Wehrmann tacjacksonvillegallery.org
Butterfield Garage Art Gallery butterfieldgarage.com
The Corner Gallery at The Jessie
• Roosevelt Watson III: “Tabano's Tempo: Standing Room Only,” through Feb. 1 movingthemargins.org
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
• “Outside: In,” Jan. 3-Nov. 30
• “Brennan Wojtyla: Cathedral of Labor,” Jan. 20-May 21
• “Rockwell Kent: The Shakespeare Portfolios,” Jan. 24-May 7
• “Frieseke in Florida: Memories of Jacksonville in the 1880s,” through Jan. 1
• “The Age of Armor: Treasures from the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum,” through Jan. 22
• “Jacksonville’s Norman Studios,” through Jan. 31 cummermuseum.org
First Coast Cultural Center
Juried Artist Member Exhibition, Jan. 27-Feb. 6 firstcoastculturalcenter.org
Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum, St. Augustine
• “Painting St. Augustine: Selections from the Samuel H. and Roberta T. Vickers Collection,” through May staugustine.ufl.edu
Haskell Gallery at Jacksonville International Airport jaxairportarts.com
Hillary Whitaker Gallery
• Works by Carmelo Blanding, John Bunker, Hillary Butler, Dennis Campay, Page Jones Davis, Marissa Decinque, Christina Foard, Jennifer JL Jones and others hwhitakergallery.com
Jacksonville Main Library
• “What's on Your Table?” through Jan. 5, First Floor Gallery jaxpubliclibrary.org
Jacksonville University
• “Sitting Down Together: Melissa Haviland, Andrew Decaen and Janet Ballweg,” Jan. 12-March 6, Alexander Brest Gallery
• ”Bill Davis: No Dark in Sight,” virtual exhibition
• “Kristin Skees: Close Knit,” virtual exhibition ju.edu/cfa
The Lightner Museum
• “Through the Lens of William Henry Jackson,” Jan. 2-March 31
• “Audrey Hope: Disappointed Tourist,” through Jan. 20
• “Handstitched Worlds: The Cartography of Quilts,” through Jan. 20
• “Tom Schifanella - Faces of the Alcazar,” through March 7
•“Contemporary Chronicles of St. Augustine,” through Sept. 30 lightnermuseum.org
MOCA Jacksonville
• “Art With a Heart: What Lifts You Up,” through Jan. 8
• “FIFTY: An Alumni Exhibition,” through Feb. 12
• “Shervone Neckles: Bless This House,” through March 5
• Project Atrium: Milagros, through April 9
• “Don’t Blame It on Zen: The Way of John Cage & Friends,” through May 7 mocajacksonville.unf.edu
• Arts Infusion ImagiNclusion, MOSH Lobby
• Works by Patricia Madrid, MOSH Creation Station themosh.org
NoCo Center
• “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” through Feb. 26 vangoghjacksonville.com
Ritz Theatre & Museum
• “Through Our Eyes: Female Led Legacies,” through Jan. 9
• Jazz Jam Photo Exhibit, Jan. 16 through March
• “Lift Ev’ry Voice,” permanent collection ritzjacksonville.com
St. Augustine Art Association
• “Mix It Up,” Jan. 6-27 staaa.org
Stellers Gallery
• Works by Eileen Corse, Jim Draper, Fallon Pepper, C. Ford Riley, Alice Williams, MacTruque and Jeff Foxworthy (yes, that Jeff Foxworthy) stellersgallery.com
University of North Florida
• Senior Exhibit, through Jan. 20, UNF Gallery of Art and Lufrano Intercultural Gallery unf.edu/gallery
The Vault at 330
• Featured artists include Susan Astleford, Margena Burnett, Ellen Diamond, Ed Hall, Dolf James, Harry McCormick and Denise Murphy thevaultat1930.com
Yellow House
• “Sit in Stand Up,” virtual exhibition
• “Still Not About a Hotdog and a Coke,” virtual exhibition
• “Magic, Mirth, and Mortality: Musings on Black Motherhood,” virtual exhibition yellowhouseart.org
Art Walk: Jan. 4
Downtown Jacksonville lights up the first Wednesday of the month with art by local artists at hubs in James Weldon Johnson Park, The Jessie and Vagabond Flea at VyStar Tower from 5–9 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, street performers, free admission to MOCA and complimentary rides on JTA’s Skyway. dtjax.org/artwalk
Fernandina Beach Arts Market: Jan. 14 and 28
Amelia Island's premier arts and crafts market comes alive the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Fernandinabeachartsmarket.com
Riverside Arts Market: Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28
Artists, artisans and makers display their original paintings, jewelry, photographs, prints and other handcrafted items every Saturday—rain or shine—from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Riverside Avenue underneath the canopy of the Fuller Warren Bridge. riversideartsmarket.com
St. Augustine First Friday Artwalk: Jan. 6
On the first Friday of every month (hence the clever name), more than 30 galleries around the Oldest City open their doors from 5–9 p.m. for visitors to browse exhibits and interact with artists. A complimentary trolley service provides transportation between downtown venues. artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
Vilano Beach Artisan Market, Jan. 19
Part beach party, part arts market, this monthly event includes works by local artists and locally-made products, as well as live music. The market takes place on the third Saturday of every month from 4-8 p.m. on A1A and Vilano Road.
What do you think of when you think of art? You probably think of the most famous artists and the pieces they created located all around the world. But maybe think a little bit closer to home. Local artists are all over Jacksonville aiming to impress their audiences with their unique takes and artistic expression.
Jon Middlebrook is a local artist who uses his talent to paint colorful and creative pieces using wood and spray paint. Day or night you’ll find him working on his art. Most of his work focuses on different characters or muses that catch viewers’ eyes immediately.
My favorite pieces of his include well-known Greek and Roman figures such as Poseidon and Julius Caesar painted in bright blues and grays. His work creates almost a threedimensional effect by his ingenius use of shadows and highlights. Don’t want to delve into Greek or Roman history? That’s OK, take a look at his pop art portraits of Marilyn Monroe in blue, purple, red and yellow, as well as Frank Sinatra and even Frankenstein. Middlebrook is clearly not afraid to reach high, and he has done so successfully. There is really no goal he can’t reach with his talent and drive.
As the featured artist at a recent Folio Art Walk party, Middlebrook showcased his skills and imagination with multiple pieces of his art on display, making guests’ eyes go wide upon seeing them. The colors he selects, the sizes of his pieces, and the details in his work will take him far as an artist…I can just tell. He also gives his audience a look into his work by showcasing videos of his process, making sure viewers know just how much effort he puts into his art.
What better way to get to know someone than when they are stabbing you repeatedly in the back of the arm? (I personally can’t think of one.) There is always that awkward limbo when getting a tattoo. Do you try to make small talk? Or do you just sit in silence and bear the pain? There was only one way for me to find out, and that was to hook 20-yearold tattoo artist Luna Nastic up to a microphone and get to talking.
Luna: All right, you ready?
Carmen: All right, I'm ready. Would you like to start by telling me your name?
Luna Nastic. Spelled L-u-n-a N-a-s-t-i-c Pretty. Yeah, It’s Serbian.
Oh! Nice! Yeah, first-generation American.
How long have you been tattooing?
I started apprenticing in November of 2021. I officially started in February of 2022. So, I think it’s been, how many months is that? Nine?
Did you ever dabble before you started apprenticing?
Um, yes, definitely. I started liking tattoos a lot, probably right when I got my first one. I started following a lot of accounts on Instagram. The more I looked at it I was like, I think I could do this. And then I started with fake skin in my room. I tattooed my father once or twice, just for fun.
Yeah? Yeah, and then I tattooed myself. I stopped for a while because I didn't want to do anymore outside of a shop. I wanted to keep it sanitary. I am very against people tattooing themselves at home … So much could go wrong.
Oh, I know. The first tattoo I ever got was in a house from a tattoo gun we bought off Amazon. Yeah, definitely not the smartest idea … Anyway, what got you into tattooing?
Um, I thought it wasn’t achievable for me. Because of the Jacksonville tattoo scene right now, it’s very hard to get apprenticeships, and I was just looking around and didn't think I could get one anywhere. Me and Gavin [Clark] started
talking when he was tattooing me. He just kind of made me feel like I could do it. Once he saw my art, he offered me a position here. It all kind of fell into place.
Who
Oh, god… there’s too many that come to mind
You can give me the top three if you need.
Okay, top three. Squires Strahan. He is in Tampa. Amazing artist. Obviously, Gavin Clark.
I was waiting for that one.
Yeah, my favorite person ever, honestly. I’m going to go local with Ivy Ton. She’s the girl who did the Kurt Cobain portrait on my leg.
Where is she?
She is at Electric Legacy on Normandy. She is also an apprentice. She is so talented.
Oof. You OK?
Yeah, I’m good. Who or what inspires you?
Um, it is kind of weird to say, but just, like, emotions, the emotions I feel. A lot of the work that I do is directly correlated with something I’ve been feeling, so if I've been feeling happy or sad it reflects into what I'm making.
I feel like that is very common with, like, artists in general.
I also studied classical art for a really long time, so a lot of the stuff I do… it’s not correlated with art I’ve seen in the past but more so the emotions that I’ve seen in classical art, like the Renaissance.
What is your craziest tattoo story?
Oh, god. I don’t know if you can write it. Just say it anyway.
So this guy, he came in as a walk-in once, I thought nothing of it. He asked for this Japanese mask, so I was like, ‘all right cool.’ I started tattooing him. Our AC was actually out that day, so we were all f****** sweating. And he… he started moaning while I was tattooing him. I understood that it hurt, but the noises were not that of pain.
Oh my god.
I know. So, I was like, OK, whatever. I’m, like, going through the whole tattoo trying to ignore it. And it’s not loud. They were like quiet enough to the point only I could hear them, but they were like… weird.
Oh, god. How long did it take?
Like an hour and a half. I actually wound up doing his whole sleeve after that. He tipped me an insane amount of money. Probably because he appreciated the fact I was ignoring his moans.
I don't even know how I would handle that situation.
Definitely an odd character.
What is something you hate tattooing? Like when someone walks in and they ask for this you’re just like ugh?
Script. Script, words, oh, my god. It’s just… as simple as they look, there’s so much that goes into that. Without blowing out your lines, making sure you have the right needle, people can move an inch and ruin the whole thing. It is just very stressful. Like, I can do them well, I just don't like doing them. Plus, I don't really like doing anything that doesn't have a creative notion to it. Because there is not much creativity that you can put into …
... A script. OK. Noted. Will not come to you when I want to get script.
Oh, I will do them for people I like, but if it is a walk-in or something, I would pass it off.
What is something you wish your clients would do more of? Like more preparation? Bring in photos?
Most of my clients are pretty good when it comes to that stuff. Maybe… Oh! My male clients. Please shave your legs. Oh, my god. They come in with like four inches of Amazon bush on their legs and they’re like, OK, I’m ready! And I’m like hold on. This is gonna take 20 minutes for me to get off your body. Oh my god. I go through three razors I shit you not.
My boyfriend is the most indecisive person when it comes to placement, so whenever he comes into the shop, he will have his entire leg shaved just in case. So, he is walking around with a bald leg.
That's so good though.
What is your favorite part of the body to tattoo?
Either arms or back. I would say that the back is probably the easiest to reach, but it is also very painful for people, and I don't really like to inflict pain.
You are probably not in the right field then.
I don't mind it, but I feel bad when I start to see a tear form, and I'm like I'm so sorry!
My last question is: What do you recommend for first-timers?
I would say to make sure you do your research on your artist. Make sure you find someone who fits your style. That is the biggest mistake I’ve ever seen. I’ve covered a lot of tattoos for people who got theirs when they were 18. They walk into a random shop and didn't think much of it. Not everyone is good. Not everyone cares about what your tattoos end up looking like. There are definitely a lot of artists in the field that just care about the money aspect of it. Also, stick to your arms or legs. I get a lot of DMs for rib pieces, and back pieces, and every time
I do one of those, they get lightheaded. They are always like, Oh, I can handle it. No. Not for your first time. I refuse to do it now. I will actually deny them if it is their first tattoo.
Oof You OK?
Yeah, yeah, I’m good.
Instagram: @moongirl.ink
When I first heard Judith Hill was scheduled for a show at the historic Ritz Theatre in January, I thought to myself, “How do I know Judith Hill?” I wasn’t confusing her with Lauren Hill. Had I seen her in concert previously? No, I’m sure I hadn’t. After a quick Google search, I realized how I knew her: She performed at Michael Jackson’s memorial service at the Staples Center on July 7, 2009.
The celebrities and entertainers who paid homage to the King of Pop included Quincy Jones, Usher, Jennifer Hudson, Lionel Richie, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and Stevie Wonder, and that’s only scratching the surface. Yet, all the world wanted to know was, “Who was the woman that sang ‘Heal the World’?” It was Judith Hill.
Hailing from Los Angeles, Hill comes from a bi-racial, musical family. Her mother, Michiko, who is Japanese, and her father, Robert (aka Pee Wee), who is African-American, met in a 1970s funk band (and continue to perform as part of her backing ensemble), and their fingerprints are all over her latest album, “Baby, I’m Hollywood.” After graduating from Biola University with a degree in music composition, Hill headed for France in 2007 to join French superstar Michel Polnareff’s touring band. Returning to the U.S. inspired, Hill ascended to star status of her own as a singer, songwriter and bandleader.
Hill’s career is explored in “20 Feet from Stardom,” a Grammyand Oscar-winning documentary about the lives of background singers. In addition to Jackson, she performed with Stevie Wonder, Elton John and Josh Groban, among others. She also appeared on the fourth season of “The Voice,” as part of Adam Levine’s team; and sang on the soundtracks of “The Lorax” and “Happy Feet Two,” as well as George Benson’s tribute to Nat King Cole.
Following an appearance on Revolt TV, where she expressed her designer to work with Prince, The Purple One invited her to his studio, Paisley Park. He went on to co-produce (and play on) her debut solo album “Back in Time” released in 2015 to critical acclaim. Her self-produced album “Golden Child” was released in 2018.
Back on the road after the pandemic, Hill is touring in support of her latest release “Baby, I’m Hollywood.” She’s described the album as being about acceptance. “Coming to terms with my story and unapologetically stepping into who I am,” she said. “I want to bring people inside my soul and help them see past the make-up, stage lights, rumors and history…to step out of the shadows of fear and into the light of vulnerability.”
You can experience the magic that is Judith Hill yourself at The Ritz Theatre & Museum on Jan. 13.
Other events coming up at The Ritz include:
Jazz Jam Photo Exhibit, Jan. 16
Bobby Rush: Live, Jan. 22
Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, Feb. 4 Gerald Alston featuring Ritz Voices, Feb. 17 “Angry Insecure Men,” March 24
For more information on shows and to buy tickets, visit ritzjacksonville.com.
Northeast Florida has always been considered a hotbed for country music performers, not just for up-and-comers but also for musicians at the top of their game. And 2023 is taking it to a whole other level with performances by mega-stars like Carrie Underwood, Willie Nelson and Blake Shelton, not to mention legendsin-the-making and two theatrical performances dedicated to one of the most influential country singers in history Patsy Cline.
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s already on the concert schedule for the new year with plenty more to come. And keep your eyes on “Born in a Barn” for details on other upcoming country shows.
Cline's death in a plane crash. Seger supplies a narrative while Cline floats in and out of the set singing tunes that made her famous–Anytime, Walkin' After Midnight, She's Got You, Sweet Dreams, and Crazy–to name a few.
The show combines humor, sadness and reality. It offers fans who remember Cline while she was alive a chance to look back, while giving new fans an idea of what seeing her was like and what she meant to her original fans.
award we could ever win." The all-star lineup of Kentucky Thunder includes Russ Carson (banjo), Jake Workman (lead guitar), Dennis Parker (baritone vocals, guitar), Jeff Picker (bass, bass vocals), Mike Rogers (tenor vocals, rhythm guitar) and Billy Contreras (fiddle). This show has already sold out.
Friday, January 20 and Saturday, January 21
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Ponte Vedra Concert Hall https://www.pvconcerthall.com/
Always ...Patsy Cline is based on the true story of Patsy Cline's friendship with Houston housewife Louise Seger. Having first heard Cline on the "Arthur Godfrey Show" in 1957, Seger became an immediate and avid fan of Cline's and she constantly hounded the local disc jockey to play Cline's records on the radio.
In 1961 when Cline went to Houston for a show, Seger and her buddies arrived about an hourand-a-half early and, by coincidence, met Cline who was traveling alone. The two women struck up a friendship that was to culminate in Cline spending the night at Seger's house–a friendship that lasted until Cline's untimely death in a plane crash in 1963.
The relationship, which began as fan worship evolved into one of mutual respect. It is the kind of relationship that many fans would like to have with their heroes.
Over a pot of strong coffee, the two women chatted about their common concerns. When Cline finally left for Dallas, her next job, the two women had exchanged addresses and telephone numbers. Seger never expected to hear from Cline again, but soon after she left, Seger received the first of many letters and phone calls from Cline. The pen-pal relationship provides much of the plot of the show.
The play focuses on the fateful evening at Houston's Esquire Ballroom when Seger hears of
Sunday, January 8
Always...Patsy Cline Thrasher Horne Center https://www.thcenter.org/
Fifteen-time GRAMMY® Award-winner Ricky Skaggs' career is easily among the most significant in recent country music history. If Skaggs' burgeoning trophy case full of awards wasn't already enough evidence of that fact, consider that legendary guitarist Chet Atkins once credited Skaggs with "single-handedly saving country music." His life's path has taken him to various musical genres, from where it all began in bluegrass music, to striking out on new musical journeys, while still leaving his musical roots intact.
In the past decade, he has been honored with inductions into the Gospel Music Association's Gospel Music Hall of Fame and the Musicians Hall of Fame. In 2018, a landmark year, Skaggs was also awarded membership into the National Fiddler Hall of Fame, the IBMA Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and country music's greatest honor, the Country Music Hall of Fame. Most recently, he was awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts in 2020 for his contributions to the American music industry.
"This group of guys meets my approval every night," Ricky says. "Each and every one of the pickers in Kentucky Thunder totally amazes me in every show...and that, to me, outweighs any
Carrie Underwood is a true multi-format, multimedia superstar, spanning achievements in music, television, film, and as a New York Times bestselling author and successful entrepreneur. She has sold more than 66 million records worldwide, recorded 28 #1 singles (14 of which she co-wrote), and has seven albums that are certified Platinum or Multi-Platinum by the RIAA, all while continuing to sell out arena tours across North America and the UK.
Monday, February 6
Carrie Underwood - Denim & Rhinestones Tour Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena https://www.vystarveteransarena.com/
With a seven-decade career, Willie Nelson has earned every conceivable award as a musician and amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor, and activist. He continues to thrive as a relevant and progressive musical and cultural force. In recent years, he has delivered more than a dozen new albums, released a Top 10 New York Times' bestsellers book, again headlined Farm Aid, an event he co-founded in 1985, been honored by the Library of Congress with their
Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, received his 5th degree black belt in Gong Kwon Yu Sul, headlined the annual Luck Reunion food and music festival during SXSW, launched his cannabis companies Willie's Reserve and Willie's Remedy, and graced the covers of Rolling Stone and AARP The Magazine. In July 2020, Willie released his album First Rose of Spring - an atmospheric soulful showcase of beautifully-written songs and poignant performances. September 2020 brought a memoir with his sister and pianist Bobbie Nelson titled, Me and Sister Bobbie: True Tales of The Family Band. For 2021, he released a new studio album in February —That's Life, Willie's second album of standards and classics made famous by Frank Sinatra (his first, 2018's My Way, earned Willie the Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Solo Album). The two legends were friends, musical colleagues, and mutual admirers of each other's work. In June 2021, a collection of his thoughts on America, family, faith and music hits shelves as a new book titled Willie Nelson's Letters to America. These creative endeavors as well as new songs and performances that add to his classic catalog, find Willie Nelson rolling at an artistic peak, writing and singing and playing with the seasoned wit and wisdom that comes from the road.
Friday, February 24 and Saturday, February 26 Willie Nelson and Family St. Augustine AMP https://www.theamp.com/
"There's nothing like getting out on the road and taking music to the fans," Shelton said. "I feel just as excited to step on stage and perform as I did the very first time. I know my tour mates Carly Pearce and Jackson Dean feel the same, and I can't wait for y'all to get to know them better. Break out the hats and boots, 'cause we're going back to the honky tonk!"
Shelton has ranked among Pollstar's Top 200 North American Tours nearly every year for the past decade. His Back to the Honky Tonk Tour follows consecutive Friends And Heroes outings, each of which earned widespread critical praise. The Spokesman-Review lauded it as "a showcase for Shelton's natural charisma, talent and humor," while The Seattle Times declared, "Blake Shelton knows how to show folks a great time."
Thursday, March 2
Blake Shelton, Back to the Honky Tonk Tour with Carly Pearce and Jackson Dean Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena https://www.vystarveteransarena.com/
Genre-bending artist Koe Wetzel has announced a North American headline tour slated for the spring. The 32-date run kicks off March 3 and includes a stop at The St. Augustine Amphitheatre on Friday, May 6.
The Texas-born singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer is a touring phenom, selling over 120k tickets last year alone. Following a slew of soldout dates in support of his latest album Sellout, including ballpark stadium shows, Koe made Pollstar's 'Top Worldwide Tours' in 2020 and 2021. Friday, March 3
Koe Wetzel - with special guests Tyler Farr and Dylan Wheeler - 'Road to Hell Paso' St. Augustine AMP https://www.theamp.com/
What can we say about Reba that hasn't already been said a million times. She's fabulous! The 2023 tour, which will begin on March 9 in Jacksonville, Florida, includes McEntire's first time performing at Madison Square Garden, where she will perform her final date of the tour on April 15 Thursday, March 9
Reba McEntire with Terri Clark and The Isaacs Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena https://www.vystarveteransarena.com/
CLAY COUNTY AGRICULTURAL FAIR
Thursday, March 30 – Sunday, April 9 Clay County Agricultural Fair
Niko Moon, Chris Janson, Tracy Lawrence, Ashley McBryde, Cooper Alan, Shane Profitt, Cumberland Band, Lily Rose, Brotherly Love https://www.claycountyfair.org/
Having played to over 1.3 million fans on his Here And Now 2022 Tour, including breaking his personal best at many of the 21 NFL stadium plays, this summer, Kenny returned to touring with a major burst of everything good. The only country artist to make Billboard's Top 10 Touring Acts of the Past 25 Years for the last 14, Chesney wanted to find a completely different way to honor
No Shoes Nation for his 2023 concerts.
"When a year is as hot and alive as 2022 was," Kenny explains, "you don't want to try to recapture that magic. Or maybe it's me. I still have the sounds of diesel engines and No Shoes Nation in my head – and that made me ask, 'What else could I do? What would be something that would put me every bit as much in the music and give No Shoes Nation another reason to believe? How can we reach those people who might not come to stadium shows, who live a little off the obvious path, but who love this music every bit as much...
"And that's when it hit me: 'I Go Back.' That song is about holding all those things that shaped you very close, recognizing how special they are –and keeping them alive any way you can. So, I decided that rather than just go repeat what we did, I wanted to take this band and these songs to a lot of the cities we played on our way up! Let's call the tour I Go Back – and do just that."
Kicking off at State College, PA's Bryce Jordan Center on March 25, the 8-time Entertainer of the Year is set to rock Penn State's hometown with a vengeance. The 21-date I Go Back 2023 Tour will criss-cross the country, returning to the places Kenny first caught fire including Lexington, KY, Grand Rapids, MI, Lincoln, NE and Oklahoma City, OK as well as headlining the Hy-Vee Indy Race in Des Moines and Tortuga Music Festival in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
"I remember coming up, the craziness of so many of those dates," Kenny says of his tour's inspiration. "Markets where people were using chain-cutters to get onto the lawn because we were so sold out in the Carolinas... and that's a kind of energy that should never be left behind. For all those fans –based on how good last year felt – I want to bring what was coming off that stage to you, where you are, so we can all have that kind of experience together!"
With a few more shows to announce, I Go Back 2023 is set to focus on the same musical intensity and high energy performances that marked the East Tennessean's precedent-setting concerts. Having been raised in Knoxville, Kenny knows the power of bringing music to the fans – and wants to recognize the bond that live shows create among friends of all ages.
"These songs time stamp people's lives," Kenny says. "They put people in their lives, but they also serve as the touchstone for memories in the
making. For people to come out and either live these songs again, or hear them for the first time? Who knows what will happen? But I know whether it's 'American Kids,' 'Get Along' or 'You And Tequila,' every single person knows exactly what we're singing about and singing along to together."
Friday, April 14
Kenny Chesney with Kelsea Ballerini - I Go Back Tour
Daily's Place https://www.dailysplace.com/
Clint Black surged to superstardom leading the fabled Class of '89, with five consecutive singles from his triple platinum debut album, "Killin' Time," reaching #1; a feat never accomplished before in any music genre. He followed that with his second album, certified triple platinum "Put Yourself in My Shoes," followed by a string of certified gold and multi- platinum albums. Black has earned 22 #1 singles and 31 Top 10's, making him one of the most successful singer/songwriters of the modern era. He has sold more than 20 million records and has received dozens of major awards and nominations including a GRAMMY and stars on both the Music City and Hollywood Walk of Fames. In 2021, Black launched Clint Black Cowboy Coffee, a line of Texas-roasted coffee available at clintblackcoffee. com. Black also hosts and co-produces "Talking in Circles with Clint Black," which just completed a successful second season on Circle TV. The talk show is a behind-the-scenes conversation with two entertainers talking "shop." Guests have included Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Joe Bonamassa, Dennis Quaid and Luke Combs to name a few. The show will begin its third season in September and airs Saturday nights at 10 p.m. EST following Opry Live. Sunday, April 16
Clint Black – Live in Concert
The Florida Theatre https://www.floridatheatre.com/
With over 12.3 billion on-demand streams, multiplatinum certifications and seven chart-toppers at Country radio, it's no wonder The New Yorker dubbed Morgan Wallen "the most wanted man in country." His critically-acclaimed, 4x platinum ACM Album of the Year Dangerous: The Double Album (Big Loud/Republic Records) – Wallen's follow-
up to his Double Platinum breakout If I Know Me. -- topped 2021s all-genre Billboard 200 Albums year-end chart with 4.1 million units sold earning him 2022 Billboard Awards Country Male Artist top honor while continuing to notch historical chart status as Billboard's longest running Top 10 album in history for a solo artist (eclipsing Adele's 21 and Bruce Springsteen's Born In The USA). Its success sparking an in-demand 55-show THE DANGEROUS TOUR in 2022 that kicked off this February and wrapped in early October, with the superstar's first headlining stadium show at Globe Life Field in Arlington, TX that saw Wallen shattering attendance records previously held by Elton John and Lady Gaga. The east Tennesseans hit-packed set included "Up Down" (2017), "Whiskey Glasses" (2018), "Chasin You" (2019), "More Than My Hometown" (2020), "7 Summers" (2020, named one of Time Magazines Best Songs of the Year), "Sand In My Boots" (2021), and his crossover "Wasted On You." Wallen's first solo release of 2022, the emotional ballad "Don't Think Jesus," timed to Good Friday in honor of its redemptive lyrics, earned a Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 debut and landed atop Billboard Hot Country Songs chart making him the first artist to score three No.1 debuts on the chart (based on airplay, streaming and sales) since its inception. Follow up single "You Proof," released in mid-May, became Wallen's fastest chart climber to-date, reaching No. 1 after 14 weeks and remaining at No. 1 on Billboard's Country Airplay chart for six non-consecutive weeks.
Working outside the traditional Nashville mainframe with producer Joey Moi, Hits Magazine notes, "Wallen continually colors outside the lines," adding, in turn "hes connected to his fans in ways unprecedented for a country star." Having already taken home New Artist of the Year in 2020, the CMA New Artist Winner also won AMAs fan-voted Favorite Male Artist and Favorite Country Song at 2022's awards. The east Tennessee superstar and recent ACM Milestone Award recipient shares, "Awards are awesome, but my true measure of success is my fans, who this year I got to see every single night out on the road and will continue to do so for many years to come." Thanks to nearly 1 million of his fans, $3 for every ticket sold during his 2022 Dangerous Tour has raised nearly $3 million benefitting the Morgan Wallen Foundation which funds causes close to his heart.
Thursday, May 4
Morgan Wallen: One Night at a Time Tour Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena https://www.vystarveteransarena.com/
A few years back, when Old Dominion got together to record "Make It Sweet," a beatific number that would appear on their 2019 self-titled LP, it was a definite change in their process: whereas before they'd typically written every song prior to entering the studio, that time around they instead wrote the entire track on the spot, quickly laying it to tape. All in one day.
"That was our first little taste of what that process could be like," says Matthew Ramsey, lead singer for the chart-topping country band who to date has notched eight No. 1 singles at country radio, surpassed one billion on-demand streams, earned several Platinum and Gold single certifications and headlined arenas and amphitheaters around the globe. "We always thought 'Man, that would be really cool to make an entire album like that.""
Recently, Old Dominion got their long-awaited chance to do exactly that: for the entirety of what became their stunning fourth studio album, Time, Tequila and Therapy, Old Dominion — which includes multi-instrumentalist Trevor Rosen, lead guitarist Brad Tursi, bassist Geoff Sprung and drummer Whit Sellers — hunkered down in an Asheville, North Carolina studio, and wrote and recorded the entire LP in a multi-week stretch. To hear them now relive those thrilling few weeks, the experience was nothing short of life-affirming.
Friday, May 5
Old Dominion: No Bad Vibes Tour Daily's Place https://www.dailysplace.com/
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre welcomes Kane Brown for a two night run on Friday, June 2 & Saturday, June 3. On the heels of his historic MTV VMA performance as the first male country artist to perform on the show, Multi-Platinum, 5X AMA award-winning entertainer Kane Brown announced his Drunk or Dreaming Tour will arrive in the US this year. Produced by AEG Presents, the US tour includes a two-night stop at The St. Augustine Amphitheatre
Friday, June 2 and Saturday, June 3
Kane Brown - Drunk and Dreaming Tour with Gabby Barrett St. Augustine AMP https://www.theamp.com/
Walker Hayes: Duck Buck Tour with special guests Ingrid Andress & Ray Fulchermusic Daily's Place https://www.dailysplace.com/
Walker Hayes has gone through a lot before reaching the success that he enjoys now. And what encouraged him to keep going through the tough times was that his wife Laney Beville never told him to stop. The couple met in high school and has been going stronger ever since. He credits her for everything that he has achieved now.
The couple also has six times the fun with their three girls and three boys. In fact, the whole family – Laney, Lela, Chapel, Baylor, Beckett, Loxley, and Everly – joined him on a TikTok groove session for his song "Fancy Like," and it was honestly the best. Friday, June 9
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre welcomes country singer Parker McCollum on Thursday, June 29, 2023 with special guest Larry Fleet.
After a year of both career and personal highlights, Parker McCollum is primed for another solid year of touring and meeting the fans that have encouraged and supported him from the start. Coming into 2022, McCollum had already been named an 'Artist to Watch' by Rolling Stone, Billboard, Sounds Like Nashville, Music Row and The Boot. He was featured as the Opry Next Stage 'Artist of the Month' and Apple Up Next Artist for 2021. Parker made is late night TV debut on "Jimmy Kimmel Live," where he performed his hit "To Be Loved ByYou." Thursday, June 29
Parker McCollum - with special guest Larry Fleet St. Augustine AMP https://www.theamp.com/
The Guardian ad Litem Foundation is dedicated to helping abused, neglected or abandoned children through support of the Guardian ad Litem Program in Duval, Clay and Nassau Counties. Guardians are volunteers, or special advocates, whose job is to serve as the voice of the child in the court system. Please contact us for available opportunities for community partnerships, sponsorship, volunteering or to donate.
Providing the necessary training and coordination for Guardian ad Litem Volunteers to perform their duties on behalf of the child.
Providing kids with the necessities needed so that they can assimilate and thrive.
Furthering secondary education for those seeking to rise above their circumstances.
• HALF AS LIKELY TO RE-ENTER FOSTER CARE
• MORE LIKELY TO BE ADOPTED BY A LOVING FAMILY
• MORE LIKELY TO PERFORM WELL IN SCHOOL
JAN. 4
Junco Royals
Colonial Oak Music Park thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 5
Donna the Buffalo
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Danny Attack and Mickey Sharp
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Dean Winter and The Heat
Colonial Oak Music Park 21 St George Street, St Augustine, FL thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Steve Poltz
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 6 Chillula
Colonial Oak Music Park thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
An Evening with Blake Christiana of Yarn
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
Rokko Ca$h
Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
JAN. 6-7
Copeland’s “Rodeo”
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
JAN. 7
New Year’s Throwdown #10 featuring Left to Suffer, Brojob, Young Ghosts and Secret Keeper Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Dillon Basse & Brooke Garwood
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
JAN. 8
Rising Up Angry, Once Kings, The Fallen Sons, Crusade and Lines in the Sky Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Radius Phaedrus with special guest Howdy
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
JAN. 10
Marc Broussard
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Mary Gauthier
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 11
Geoff Tate’s 2023 Big Rock Show
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Chuck Prophet
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
The Grass Is Dead
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 12
Griffin House
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
Magic City Hippies Winter Tour 2023 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Chuck Prophet Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
Rio Grande
Colonial Oak Music Park thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 13
Judith Hill Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
Mason Jennings
The Dover Quartet Memorial United Methodist Church Sanctuary, Fernandina Beach ameliachambermusic.org
Palomino Blond Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Vibe Live Record Showcase
Colonial Oak Music Park thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 13-14
Lush Life: Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
JAN. 14
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Haxprocess Album Release Party w Druid Lord, Cute & Cuddly Kittens, Ritual 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 15
Winter Jam 2023 VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena jaxevents.com
Eric Rachmany Acoustic Tour
1904 Music Hall 1904musical hall.com
An Evening with Dan Bern
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
Goldpark Jack Rabbits jackrabbits.com
JAN. 17
The National Philharmonic of Ukraine
First Baptist Church, Fernandina Beach ameliachambermusic.org
JAN. 18
Moon Hooch
Jack Rabbits jackrabbits.com
JAN. 19
“Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute” Thrasher-Horne Center thcenter.org
Concert Crave Artist Showcase Winter 2023 Tour
1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Papadosio and Keeka the Brave Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Tabasco Brothers
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
David Wilcox Cafe Eleven originalcafe11.com
JAN. 20 America
Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Mo Lowda & The Humble and Trash Panda Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
Colonial Oak Music Park thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
JAN. 20-21
Symphonic Movie Night: “Jurassic Park”
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
JAN. 21
Chris Botti
Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
The Secateurs with Parks & Razz
Murray Hill Theatre murrayhilltheatre.com
St. Augustine Waterworks historiccoastculture.com
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 22
Bobby Rush: Live
Ritz Theatre & Museum ritzjacksonville.com
The Radolescents and The Delta Bombers Jack Rabbits jaxlive.com
EMMA Concert: Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, St. Augustine emmaconcerts.com
JAN. 24
The Voice of the Moody Blues Justin Heyward with special guest Mike Dawes
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Jack Rabbits jaxrabbits.com
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 25
Big Band of Brothers: A Celebration of the Allman Brothers Band
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Bit Brigade performs “Mega Man II” and “Duck Tales” Jack Rabbits jackrabbits.com
JAN. 26
Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Glen Miller Orchestra
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
January Jazz in the Garden with Alberto Cebollero Trio Lightner Museum, St. Augustine lightnermuseum.org
Tenci 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
JAN. 27 Air Supply Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Artikal Sound System: Welcome To Florida Tour Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Sexbruise and Strayin’ Anchors 1904 Music Hall 1904musichall.com
Cumberland Band
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
The Original Cafe Eleven, St. Augustine Beach originalcafe11.com
JAN. 27-28
Rachmaninoff's “Rhapsody”
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts jaxsymphony.org
Emerson String Quartet: Farewell Tour
Amelia Plantation Chapel, Fernandina Beach ameliachambermusic.org
JAN. 28
An Evening With Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra
Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
Colonial Oak Music Park, St. Augustine thecolonialoakmusicpark.com
Hooligan Holiday 2023 featuring Merauder, The Minus Years and more Underbelly Underbellyjax.com
Seth Walker
Blue Jay Listening Room bluejayjax.com
JAN. 29
The Kat and Dave Show: David Foster and Katharine McPhee Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts fscjartistseries.org
The Brit Pack Ponte Vedra Concert Hall pvconcerthall.com
JAN. 30
Mike and The Moopies: Tour Me a Cold One 2023 Jack Rabbits jaxlives.com
JAN. 31
Judy Collins Florida Theatre floridatheatre.com
Shane Smith & The Saints Underbelly underbellyjax.com
Words by Mario Tarradell
Folk singer-songwriters have long been recognized for creating music that plays like hearts hanging on the sleeves of love, life and everything in between. They are observers of the human condition, of the world around them and of the intersection between the two. As listeners and even admirers, we frequently see ourselves in those lyrics. Their music is indeed universal.
Veteran folk singer-songwriter David Wilcox certainly has the pedigree. The Ohio native with the warm baritone first came to the attention of audiences and critics when he won the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival in 1988. Thirty-plus years and 20-plus albums later, Wilcox won top honors in the 23rd annual USA Songwriting Competition for his effervescent “We Make the Way by Walking” from his most recent album, “The View From the Edge.” In between, he’s earned praise in “The New York Times,” “The Boston Globe,” “The Los Angeles Times” and “Rolling Stone,” to name a few.
And like all folk singer-songwriters worth their lyrics and melodies, Wilcox shines before an intimate audience. He returns
to Northeast Florida Jan. 19 performing at The Original Cafe Eleven in St. Augustine Beach.
It is music, whether performed live before an audience or recorded for posterity, that Wilcox deems cathartic, even medicinal. In fact, if you check out his website, you’ll find a “Musical Medicine” section that features songs ready to heal heartbreak, depression and addiction. But also, there are songs to appreciate life, beauty and “enjoying the bliss of the moment.” That, in essence, is the power of original folk music. Wilcox taps into the reveries of humanity and turns out vignettes that we can all relate to. But most importantly, these are tunes that make us feel, think, laugh and cry. And even at its most deeply personal, Wilcox’s songs are universal.
“I’m grateful to music,” he said. “I have a life that feels deeply good, but when I started playing music, nothing in my life felt that good. I started to write songs because I wanted to find a way to make my life feel as good as I felt when I heard a great song. I don’t think I’d be alive now if it had not been for music.”
ARLINGTON
Cliff’s Bar and Grille
Live music, Friday and Saturday cliffsbarandgrill.com
Gusto
Live music throughout the week gustojax.com
Lemon Bar & Grille
Live music throughout the week lemonbarjax.com
Lynch’s Irish Pub
Live music all week lynchsirishpub.com
Mango’s
Karaoke, Sunday and Wednesday mangosjaxbeach.com
Mavi’s Waterfront Bar & Grill
Live music, Friday–Sunday mavijax.com
Monkey’s Uncle Tavern
DJ, Tuesdays; live music, Thursday, Friday and Sunday; karaoke, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday monkeysuncletavern.com
Palm Valley Outdoors Bar and Grill
Live music, Friday–Sunday palmvalleyoutdoors.com
The Ritz Lounge
DJs and dancing, Friday–Sunday theritzlounge.com
The Shim Sham Room
Burlesque shows, Wednesday; DJs and dancing, Friday–Sunday shimshamroom.com
Surfer The Bar
DJs and dancing, Friday–Sunday surferthebar.com
Electronic Thursdays, Jan. 5; Before & After Fridays: Jan. 6; Goth Night: Jan. 8; Various DJs, Jan. 7 mythexperience.com
The Volstead
Swing dance night, every third Sunday of the
month thevolsteadjax.com
FLEMING ISLAND
Mr. Chubby’s Wings
Live music, Friday mrchubbyswings.com
Mercury Moon
Live music, Monday and Wednesday facebook.com/Mercury-Moon
Sunset Tiki Bar
Live music Friday–Sunday the-sunset-tiki-bar.business.site
Whitey’s Fish Camp
Live music, Saturday and Sunday whiteysfishcamp.com
Enza’s
Live piano music,Tuesday–Sunday enzas.net
Kava & Company
Drum circle, second Wednesday of the month; Jax Jam, first and third Friday kavaandcompany.com
MURRAY HILL
Buchner’s Bierhalle Live music, Wednesday buchnersbierhalle.com
The Stout Snug
Young Dubliners, Jan. 25-27 thestoutsnug.com
The Walrus
Daily entertainment, Tuesday–Sunday thewalrusjax.com
ORANGE PARK
57 Heaven
DJs, Wednesday–Friday facebook.com/57HeavenOP
Big Dawgs Sports Restaurant
Karaoke/live music, Wednesday bigdawgsrestaurant.com
Cheers Park Avenue
Live music, Friday-Sunday cheersparkave.com
The Daq Shack
Karaoke, Wednesday; live music, Sunday
thedaqshack904.com
Dee’s Music Bar and Grill
Live music, Friday and Saturday facebook.com/musicbarandgrill
Locals Pub
Karaoke, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday; DJs, Friday and Sunday localspub.co
Tom and Betty’s
Live music, Friday and most Saturdays tomandbettys.net
Various DJs throughout the week facebook.com/birdiesfivepoints
Brick Restaurant
Live jazz on weekends brickofavondale.com
Casbah Cafe
Live jazz, Sunday; belly dancing, Friday and Saturday thecasbahcafe.com
Live music, Friday and Saturday; Reggae with DJ Brooks, Sunday garagejax.com
Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge
Spoken word poetry and DJ Swagg, Tuesday; live music, Friday and Saturday jazzysrestaurant.net
Arcade bar with daily events kegandcoinjax.com
Karaoke, Tuesday; DJ Robbie P, Thursday; DJ Brooks, Friday; DJ Robbie P, Saturday loftjax.com
Live music throughout the week instagram.com/raindogs5points
Root Down
Silent disco, Friday-Sunday facebook.com/RootDownJax
SAN MARCO/ST. NICHOLAS
DJ, Wednesday; live jazz, Friday and Saturday breezyjazzhouse.com
DJs, Thursday; DJ Alekz Vibration, Friday and Saturday cubalibrebar.com
Fore
Live music, Thursday and Saturday forescoregolf.com
Kava & Company–San Marco
Open mic and karaoke night, Wednesday kavaandcompany.com
The Mudville Grill
TBA Big Band, first and third Monday; River City Rhythm Kings, second Monday themudvillegrill.com
Culhane’s Karaoke, Saturday culhanesirishpub.com
Jax Craft Beer
Live music, Friday jaxcraftbeer.com
St. Augustine
Arnold’s Lounge
Acoustic music, Wednesday; karaoke, Thursday; live music, Friday and Saturday; acoustic open mic night, Sunday arnoldslounge.com
Beacon Listening Room
Live music, Thursday-Saturday beaconstaug.com
Cellar Upstairs Bar at San
Sebastian Winery
Jan. 5: Ian Kelly; Jan. 6: Gary Douglas Campbell and Bread & Butter; Jan. 7: Vibe RW and The Carpetbaggers; Jan. 8: Vinny Jacobs; Jan. 12: Tony Scozzaro; Jan. 13: Jolie and Bread & Butter; Jan. 14: Wes Register and Tony & Friends; Jan. 15: Vinny Jacobs; Jan. 19: Vinny Jacobs; Jan. 20: Caleb Joye and Yael & Gabriel; Jan. 21: Corey on Sax and Tony & Friends; Jan. 22: Vinny Jacobs; Jan. 26: Caleb Joye; Jan. 27: Yael & Gabriel and Fran Pitre & Class Act; Jan. 28: TJ Brown and The Vibe; Jan. 29: Vinny Jacobs sansebastianwinery.com
Jan. 5: Steve Poltz; Jan. 10: Mary Gauthier; Jan. 11: The Grass is Dead; Jan.12: Griffin House; Jan. 13: Willy Porter; Jan. 14: Albert Castiglia; Jan. 19: David Wilcox; Jan. 21: Kristy Lee; Jan. 24: Raye Zaragoza; Jan. 27: Marbin originalcafe11.com
Bluegrass Jam, Sunday; Jan. 2: Micah Gilliam; Jan. 5: Jake Salter; Jan. 6: Soul Taxi and Color of Soul; Jan. 7: Ginger Beard Man and Shaun & Kristen; Jan. 9: Taylor Roberts; Jan. 10: Colton McKenna; Jan. 12: Lu Rubino; Jan. 13: Morrow Family Band and Straying Anchors; Jan. 14: Trae Pierce & the T-Stones; Jan. 16: Lu Rubino; Jan. 19: Speakasy for a Cure; Jan. 20: Chillula and Color of Soul; Jan. 21: Mandala and Raisin Cake Orchestra; Jan. 24: Colton Mckenna; Jan. 26: Kat Hall Duo; Jan. 27: Paper City Hustlers; Jan. 28: Esh x Schief; Jan. 30: Alberto Cebollero pkstaug.com
Live music throughout the week tradewindslounge.com
LEAVE IN 2022:
• Low rise jeans
• Excessive cutouts; the pants with hip cutouts are just a little too out there for me
• Voluminous/puffy shoulders
• Pastels…lots and lots of pastels
• Some Y2K fashion can stay in the early 2000s…please do not bring back gauchos or bright blue skinny jeans
• Chunky plastic jewelry is just not hitting the way you want it to
TAKE TO 2023:
• Pink everything because you need to live you best legally blonde life
• Sweatsuits…bring on the comfort
• Calf high leather boots can really make any outfit look bougee
• Sustainable fashion brands
• Upcycled clothing
• Band tees, always band tees
LEAVE IN 2022:
• Seltzers…oh my god we get it – bubbles and alcohol make for a fun time, but seriously enough is enough
• Protein powered hydrating drinks; I get the concept, but the execution was not handled well
• Vitamin supplements…how many green drinks do we need a day?!
• Pickle flavored everything…just eat a pickle for goodness sakes
• Stone rollers for your skin care, I’m just going to say what we’re all thinking, “THEY DON’T DO ANYTHING!” unless of course it’s just me and I cannot in fact do skin care right (could be me)
• Cancel culture; don’t get me wrong, some people should not be in the spotlight that are, but we might be taking this thing a bit too far sometimes. Let’s go into 2023 encouraging people to better themselves and be kinder.
TAKE TO 2023:
• Renovated mobile homes because these things are sweet
• Cycle classes, they are exhausting and slightly humiliating but so much fun and rewarding, just make sure to sing up for a good music day (riding a bike intensely for 60 minutes to Taylor Swift’s diss songs is more motivating than you think)
• “The Great Outdoors” – one thing we can always use more of is some fresh air and nice scenery
• Social activism; we need to be cognizant of the effect we have on others
• Cozy video games; I am a huge fan of the calming sounds and visuals that could put me right to sleep or take my mind of the daily crazy (I was told by a child yesterday that I look like I’m going crazy, maybe I need to get some more of these games…)
• Supporting minority-owned small businesses
• Wellness travel; going somewhere to recharge and relax is a necessity for those with busy daily lives- we’re taking time for ourselves in 2023
• Filling the house with the type of plants that can improve your air quality AND your mood. We’ve heard of light therapy, but plants allow us top improve our mental and physical well-being. Plus, they look pretty.
So, as we say goodbye to this s***show we call 2022, let us ring in the new year being the best version of ourselves we can be. I would also like to state, you can do and wear anything you feel confident in.
