The fall series of the popular Songwriters Showcase organized by Kelly and Blu Hopkins opens Friday, Sept. 28 at SAGA Public Art Gallery.
“We intend them to be interesting, entertaining and inspiring,” says Kelly, noting showcase participants write their own material and often talk about where, when and why they wrote their songs. “The intent is to showcase the amazing depth of talent in the Shuswap.”
First up is John Clinch. Originally from England where he performed in rock and country bands, Clinch emigrated to Chase in 1993.
In his rock and roll days, Clinch was signed to the Moody Blues’ recording company and recorded at Sir George Martin’s Air Studios in England with his country/rock band. He soon moved on to playing country music full time, performing with the legendary Albert Lee.
He gave up music for a time in the ’80s, working various jobs until emigrating to B.C. Five years later, he was bitten by the bluegrass bug and with Doug and Deb Noel formed Blue Moon. During this time, he met the late Gord Milne and, together with Joany Robertson and Chris Stevens, formed the band Four Wheel Drift. This hard-driving bluegrass band featured Clinch’s songwriting and tenor singing, Milne’s vocals and blazing guitar and mandolin licks, Steven’s vocals and killer banjo playing and, backed by Robertson’s solid bass, wowed audiences throughout the region.
Recently, John can be found at home in Chase, or in Nashville writing and playing his songs.
Joining Clinch in the showcase is Carolyn Anele, a former Salmon Arm musician who preferred creating her own melodies on the old family piano to the tedious practising of scales and traditional compositions. In 2000, Anele began her career as a solo artist, promoting her original material. Her 2002 debut album, The Harbour, features seven original songs – a mixture of folk, contemporary, spiritual and instrumental music. The CD won a 2003 KADAC (Kelowna And District Arts Council) Award of Honour for a CD released in the Okanagan.
Anele has since released a four-song self-titled EP, Carolyn Anele, as well as a single release called Where Birds Sing. Anele performs for charities, benefits, festivals and showcases. Her musical vision is to write songs that will inspire uplift and heal.
Tickets are $10 at Acorn Music. Gourmet snacks will be served by donation.