JP HOE blog

Where have I been?

mood: Sweet and Lowdown soundtrack

Hey.

I can't believe I have not been back here sooner. The blog. I have had a busy three months, but have been such a jerk face that I couldn't be bothered sharing anything with you, my reader. My one and only beautiful/handsome reader? Let's not dwell.

2009 ended with a bang. A december that saw us drive through a blizzard followed by 2 gut checking days in Calgary where I struggled to play for great friends with a 101F fever and a throat that was as sore as Dick Cheney's hunting partner, heyooo. But we did it. With help from the boys who backed me up we had two fantastic evenings, some misunderstandings with the door, but a fun fun weekend was had none the less. We returned home and I mended myself as best I could in time to lend what ever it is I do, to the Quinzmas concerts at home in Winnipeg. The week following was the 5th annual JP Hoe Hoe Hoe Holiday shows (Fri and Sat), we decked out the theatre with more decoration than Martha could wag a stick at, heyooo. The band, the special guests, the custom made fortune cookies, the borderline self deprecating racial jokes, the paper mashe, the final chapter of Harry and the Hendersons, the sold out shows, wicked. Great christmas present. The following week had me helping out my family's biz and then with 2 days left, I managed to get all of my shopping done, with, no post holiday returns. The following week was rehearsals for a very special NYE, featuring the Beatles, well at least a much older version of the Beatles. My carpentar Wes Barker and I built a set that matched the Ed Sullivan set nearly to a "T". I have never played a cover show quite like it, we were into it from start to finish. In fact a woman who came out for the music not the band, asked if my accent was real...Well I be knickers and bottoms! Seems like a British expression. But tremendous tremendous tremendous. Thank you to everyone who made their NYE zygote following one of our concerts, name her Ringo, so bold. Aeyooo!

January brought strange weather here in Winnipeg. Started harsh and then for a 2 week stretch, everyone walked around the city in thongs, backwards! So balmy and so tropical, mother nature couldn't have been sweeter. I had a few appearances around town while I tried to catch my breath from production after production, this included a funny moment. I'd like to share a secret that most independent musicians do not advertise, (hold yourself) they have had to moonlight in spurts to keep the old bed and roof under and above them. Some in stores or insurance shops, some filing, and others the art of table service. Shocking I know, but it's true. So, I was asked to participate in an evening titled "Dinner with a Star". Promoted with fancy posters, lots of glitz and it was for charity. I love helping charities when I can, and had a friend organizing the deal. A week after I agreed I thought to myself, "Hey JP. Quick question. What the fuck are you doing?" I realized that perhaps I was a bit too quick responding and did not think about whether or not this may be awkward. As the day approached I became more and more nervous. I'm not exactly sure why, but it had something to do with the idea of sitting down for folks that paid a lot of money to have dinner with a celebrity and then would politely ask me as I approached the table, "There you are, I'll have a gin and 7." Winnipeg is filled with so much talent, but star or celeb status doesn't really resonate with my own self image. I am proud and thrilled with what I have achieved as an independent artist and am humbled to have reached many of my goals in the industry, so I guess I relate more with 'epic unmatched wordsmith and melodastic mind', something more low key. The day of the event, I remember talking to Dave Pankratz and confiding, "what if I've been their waiter before? What if the 45+, mortgage paid off, set for life folks turn to each other and say, 'why did we pay XXX amount to eat with our waiter from your sister's birthday dinner a couple years ago?'" Even purchasing a new coat from Club Monaco that afternoon, couldn't calm me as I arrived to the event. I found some comfort in the rye and cokes as well as the company of Heather Bishop, Sheena Grobb, Ace Burpee, and Fred Penner. Though, I ran into someone from high school, and they asked why I was there (don't worry, I am laughing as I write this and recall the series of events, I am not immune to the awesomeness of the situation.). When I learned that the "Stars" were to be raffled off in front of the crowd, I began to sweat. In full disclosure I get nervous a lot but this was unique. I just like to write good songs and perform them on stage, the other stuff is tough to swallow, even when it's for a good cause like this night. When it happened, I think it went, "International magician Brian Glo, Defensive Player of the year from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Independent Artist JP Hoe." I bet some of the audience became just as nervous as I was at that point. This however is where the story loses it's humour because it was all uphill from that point on. I was matched with a group of young, hip graphic designers and we headed for sushi, and had a company card which allowed us to sample the various martinis with names that I have a hard time believing folks in Japan would consider appropriate. One area I also dreaded was what would we talk about for a few hours. I could explain to them what type of business model that usually does not turn a profit at the end of the year, and how it is still desirable as employment. So in this area I was prepared. I prepped a bunch of recipe cards with "get to know you" questions throughout, such as "Have you ever been arrested? For what?" or "When was the last time you were married or divorced?" and we had a few winners and then laughs came easier and easier. By the end of the night and beginning of the next day, I had made some new friends, Fred and I played a fun game at the after party, who can name and find on the Iphone the grossest looking animal, my choice is 'fish with human teeth' or 'naked mole rat', look them up you'll agree. So in retrospect, thanks for having me, and thanks to the group who I dined with, you were very kind and created a good memory, rather than a brutal one.

Finally I want to give out a few shout outs:

Shout out #1 - Winnipeg Folk Festival - For putting together a songwriters in the round with Romi Mayes, Ridley Bent and myself. Amazing songwriters and performers and Romi has stolen my gratitude for ever, not to mention a WCMA. Good luck at the Junos Romi!
Shout out #2 - MB Film and Music - For throwing a huge concert, with some of the best our province has to offer the world. They are an organization who help keep our chances good in succeeding and have been staunch supporters of mine since the beginning. I'm truly thankful, and anyone who is a fan of my music must also be a fan of MB Film and Music, they help keep me in the game.
Shout out #3 - Mike Petkau and Dala - I was able to be a last minute addition to the Dala bill at the West End, courtesy of the new artistic director Mike Petkau. Super nice guy, beautiful venue, go or come and see it if you can. And shit, Dala were freaky good. Their voices = butter and the sincerity on stage refreshing.

Thanks it. Next blog, about my trip to New Orleans and Memphis, got to see Leatha, and threw some beads...

JP on 03.28.10 @ 11:33 PM CST [link] [5 Comments]

It ain't chilly in my heart

music: We Are the Same - The Tragically Hip

I haven't blogged for quite some time. And the odd thing is that I've have a bunch of stuff to reminisce about.

The Western Canadian Music Awards proved to be a great weekend, I had many delicious meals (complimentary), spent time with friends and family, met some wonderful folks, and the hotel water slide was wicked. In full disclosure I went 0-2 in the award department bringing my lifetime record to 0-3. Is there no justice in this world? I didn't think so. Actually, one of the awards (songwriter of the year) went to a friend Romi Mayes. Romi is hard working and dedicated to her craft. She is someone I admire, and who has created a life for herself. She's also super generous. Back in the day when I played the Winnipeg Fringe Festival, I had both of my guitars stolen following a show. Stuck. I casually knew Romi from the scene, and had the chance to have a beer with her on a perfect Corydon watching day in August. Not 20 minutes into our conversation she offered her guitar to me as long as I needed it. It may not seem much to anyone else, but I've never forgotten that act of kindness. It was a beautiful black Gretsch acoustic, warm tones and had been used by a bona-fide troubadour. So, when her name was called in September, no bad feelings. In the other category Pop recording of the year, if went to Marianas Trench. Them I will street fight. They have lent me nothing.

Then I headed to Ottawa for an Ontario Folk Festival conference. I was able to spend time with one of my oldest friends and eat my weight in East Indian Food (East India Company), went to my first Ottawa Senators game (Jersey, 7-1 Ottawa win, 2 shorty's, 1 hat trick, 3 fights, and free pizza for the arena), caught up with a neighbour from my childhood, and walked around the Parliament buildings. I am a self confessed political junkie, and walking the grounds gave me such a feeling of pride and happiness. It was cool that afternoon, but it wasn't chilly in my heart. If you haven't gone recently head to O-town and take it all in. The buildings are spectacular, gargoyles everywhere, and everything kept in mint shape. They are such a statement. I know that to many, all they see if crooks etc, which is true is places, but I tend to focus more on the principles behind the massive stone buildings and the jobs people have in them.

The conference was a delight as well. I have to say I'm lucky as shit to have Manitoba Music at my back. Our hometown organization is priceless. They open doors, provide unbiased feedback, and genuinely want you to succeed. The weekend consisted of a few showcases, where hotel rooms were booked on 2 floors and artists, organizations, labels etc, host concert from 11 pm - 5 am. It's an electric atmosphere and gives you the opportunity to seek out new music one room down the hall then multiplied by 40! I made some new friends from home and hopefully I'll be visiting some Ontario Folk Fests next summer, cross your fingers!

Throughout the month of October MTS tv in Manitoba was showing a concert we shot to benefit the West End Cultural Centre, and ho-shoot! it was fantastic. There was a crane and tons of HD cameras, I was so thankful to be apart of it and joining me on stage was uncle Patches, and my ever lovely, ever changing string quartet. If you can catch it, I recommend it money goes to the WECC, and their schweet new facility. Enjoy.

Lastly, I've been recording and writing new tunes, and have my hands full organizing Dec. The Hoe Hoe Hoe Holiday shows are approaching and we're heading to AB for a few days...full band. I will blog much as the new year draws near, stay tuned. Now go and hug someone and give the new Tragically Hip record a few spins. More alt-country than aggressive rock, and sooo awesome.

JP on 11.05.09 @ 01:59 PM CST [link] [3 Comments]

Professionally aged 6 months

music: WILCO (the album)
mood: I am good

It's hot. It's hot in here. The weather is so nice it is putting me in an even better mood than the day before, and I've been thinking about places that stay this way all year long. When I have to be inside doing work, and can't go and golf, I worry about the next week. The climate may have shifted to the third chapter of the year. But in San Diego you can go golfing in two weeks, two months, on New Years eve, no worries just time. I've been thinking about weather a lot. I wonder if people in the pleasant climates actually do get sick of the sun, and say to themselves, "Sure could use some -20 C right about now", or "yuck! when will this mild humidity, gentle breeze and tender warmth from the sun ever end!"? I doubt it. I'm not complaining per se, but I have been reflecting on where I am.

Earlier this year I was pretty pretty pretty bummed. It's 6 months later, I went on some tours, had a few crazy (understatement) adventures with good friends, went to camp, am heading to Brandon MB for the Western Canadian Music Awards (I'm up for 2 WCMA's but am very confident it is not meant to be this year, I'm comfortable with this fact) and it's my 21st birthday this week. Yay, finally legal in the US! Specifically responding to an old blog of mine, I wanted to tell myself, that no I am still not closer to a prize, and no I am not where I want to be, but it could be worse and I'm incredibly happy all the same.

I've been writing and I like my new songs, they're no "tonight's gonna be a good night, and tonight's gonna be a good night" gems, but I like em. Some were co-written, most weren't but I think they're my strongest products since starting this craft. They were songs that came from my pen, and my imagination. They didn't have to go through boardrooms or douchebags who scrutinize every syllable or comma. They may not impress our Minister of Heritage who only wants to help artists willing to sell their soul for success, but they're good. I love that this is what I do. Sure everyone has to moonlight once in a while, but I get to write and play music. It's not an arduous task, it's challenging but not difficult, and gives me the opportunity to "work" with friends. In fact with a bunch of friends, I started recording 2 new demos yesterday, (Sandy at the helm, and supported by jason, derek and derek). My gut says that was more fun than many other group projects found in the steady job at real workplaces. I am not rich, quite frankly, I owe a lot of money. But I love my work, friends family and fans have an affinity as well, and am given support from radio time to time. Professionally, it could be so much worse, but most of the time it can't get much better.

So thank you sunshine for finally coming around, and thank you cold winds for halting your normal arrival time. You're not unwanted, it's just much cooler to be fashionably late.

PS: I should mention I do accept blank cheques, and precious stone donations. We're open 24/7.
JP on 09.15.09 @ 01:42 PM CST [link] [2 Comments]

Camp

It has been over a decade since the last time I packed my duffel bag, and headed to camp. Meals prepared, plenty of activities, and staying up too late for our own good, naughty naughty. Okay, I didn't really go to camp, but I went to a lodge an hour and a bit north of Winnipeg along with 8 other songwriters and a camp councilor. The idea was not all that clear when we arrived, what was to be accomplished and what we would be doing. But as everyone assembled in the main hall, individuals began sizing up their collaborators and poof, it began. The week consisted of forming three person groups writing an original song, and laying down a basic demo. Throughout the day groups were essentially forced into taking a couple breaks for lunch and dinner and returned to work until 1-2 in the morning. Go to sleep get up and repeat. It was awesome.

Numerous times throughout the week, people would comment "how refreshing to have no distractions, no part-time jobs, nothing to compete with the craft of song-writing." The exercise itself of writing with others wasn't as easy as we all thought either. Most of the group were solo writers (band or otherwise) and the week was a chance to flex new muscles and create more options and skills for the future.

My groups consisted of

DAY #1
Matt Peters (the Waking Eyes)
Mike Petkau (In the Sand Productions)

Day #2
Sandy Taronno (Quinzy)
Lloyd Peterson (Wonder Dog Studios)

Day #3
Jason Gordon (Davinport)
Derek Norton (Empire Recording)

Other than the late night chats about the business, the songs themselves turned out amazing! We all went a bit extreme with recording "basic" demos but what the hell. I'll post the songs when I get them, and you can tell me what you think. Sandy Lloyd and I even came up with a new band name The Meow Meows, who knows we may be on myspace before you know it.

So thanks to SAC and Manitoba Music, for hooking it all up, and to all of the fabulous artists who made last week one of the best weeks of my whole life.

JP on 08.24.09 @ 09:44 AM CST [link] [3 Comments]

WCMA NOMINATIONS

Well, I am thrilled to say I was nominated for two 2009 Western Canadian Music Awards, with the ceremonies to take place in Brandon Manitoba, in September. The two categories were Outstanding Pop Recording, and Songwriter of the Year. To be perfectly honest, since I found out, I'm relieved more than anything. With the professional changes I've made this year, with more to come, it was important to boost moral. I don't have any thought that I'll win either award, but I feel encouraged that I have been short listed. And I'm happy to say I'm friends with so many other artists in contention something feels good. I don't know if nominations can bear more success, but they can't hurt, and hopefully everyone who worked on the record will take this nod as a compliment to them as artists, and more importantly amazing friends.

So just incase *wink* I'm not accepting anyting come Sept 20th, I'd like to thank...

...Lloyd, Scott, Rob, David, Sandy, Jamie, Jason, Carlin, Ruth, Rachel, Greg, Jane, Kiera, Dan, Rusty, Claire, Darcie, Neil, Rob, Dylan, Manitoba Film and Music, MARIA, FACTOR, WMA, Lindsay, Nelson and Gina, and the rest of the famiglia!

A big thanks as well to the industry who voted for me, I'd like to have you over for some tea (nominations don't pay like they used to).

JP on 07.29.09 @ 09:23 AM CST [link] [6 Comments]

The JP HOE PROM SHOW, FORT FRANCES FOLK FESTIVAL, 20STEPS.COM, and summer till now...

Well, the past 2 months have been tremendous! I've been busy, and couldn't be happier. Every show reminds me how important being on stage is, and is such a reward for so many years that led up to this point.

THE PROM SHOW

We started with THE JP HOE PROM SHOW...a night of memories and a chance to be decadent and over the top. The audience dressed up, we played perfectly, and pulled off something I hope will be an annual event. Photos are online, thanks to all of the volunteers (friends and fans) who threw themselves into the idea of a PROM, it was honestly one of my favourite shows ever!

MINI MINUTES:
-Recorded a performance with my favourite string quartet and Uncle Rob, for and at the new and improved West End Cultural Centre
-Participated with Spirit's Call choir in a lovely fundraiser for a Women's shelter in a beautiful old church
-Watched Coldplay kill the concert in Winnipeg, 2.5 hrs, energy, and imagination, awesome.

20STEPS.COM

Later in June...in a 72hr span drove (6) from Winnipeg to Calgary and back, played a corporate show (20STEPS.COM - WHICH IS GOING TO BE AN AMAZING NEW WEBSITE, STAND BY FOR MORE DETAILS) 45 mins after arriving, had delicious shwarma, was put up at the Fairmont Palliser in beautiful downtown Calgary, with two open mini bars and plenty of motivation to empty them. Slept, awoke to a stunning buffet, a visit to H&M, rafting down the Elbow river, and racing out to the Alberta/Montana border for another private show on a ranch that stretched out to the eye can see. It was spectacular. We spent the night accidentally consuming too much white rum and being surrounded by wonderful people and fortress walls made of hills. It was also a chance to play with some old friends, Zack and Derek from TELE, making new ones too; Megith Dolovich from Megan Dolovich, rounding out the gang was Rob and Derek Norton quite the compliment. First thing sunday morning after a poor decision to climb a hill at "break-neck" speeds with minor hangovers, we headed back to Winnipeg, arriving home 70 hours after departing...incredible.

FORT FRANCES FOLK FESTIVAL

The great shows didn't end in Calgary. This past weekend, we headed to Fort Frances Ontario to headline their first annual Fort Frances Folk Fest! Organized by young Alex (21), a new crew piled into the van (David, Darcie, Rob, Jamie, Derek, Meg, and Lindsay) and we drove through some of the world's most beautiful wetlands. When we arrived we noticed how well the event was organized. I realized I was lucky to have been asked to come. Small town people are great. I don't know if I've ever mentioned it, but truly, everyone was super polite and helpful, the folks at the hotel, the volunteers at the event, and random strangers.

The stage was facing a great big hill, and we watched a made for tv sunset as our set approached near. The show itself was strong. There were some technical glitches and the mosquitos followed us from Manitoba (not your fault FF), but the band sounded tight. there was so much help tech wise, there's no way it would have gone as smooth otherwise. I recorded the audio of the show and we'll find out this week how it came out. If it did I'll be adding a couple of tracks to the JP HOE DOWNLO SITE, for anyone on my mailing list and/or myspace and facebook fan pages.

Hopefully, we'll get to return to the Fort Frances area and play a few more shows extending our stay in the Canadian shield. We had fun and expect more of the same.

JP on 07.20.09 @ 11:24 AM CST [link] [1 Comment]

House Concerts

In the past 2 months, I think has house concert fever (a relative of the swine flu) has taken off and I couldn't be happier. I've tried a few different versions of the band and each bring a unique "flava" to the evening. If you're wondering what these are heres the break down:

-band shows up at 5
-sets up equip sound checks a few songs
-leaves and comes back to full house 15 minutes before performance
-house concert host invites ticketed guests, guests bring bevy's and maybe a snack
-band plays 2 X 45 sets, with no chatting in the room
-show is done by 10:30 and everyone hopefully leaves happy

We've been playing in Winnipeg, rural Manitoba, Vancouver, and are eager to play in as many homes as possible across North America and maybe even Europe. I don't know why they are so great, they generally max out at 50 people, and many attendees already have the records. But the intimacy and space to talk and be myself is refreshing. Not that I'm a fake on stage at theatres or bars, but at house shows I can say anything I want and safely know if it's inappropriate, I also get the opportunity to explain myself. There is always delicious food, (Sandy, David and I were laughing thinking of how we have tried probably every type of dip ever, since chips and dip are a staple at these events), delicious drink, and wonderful people who are there for music and performance. You cannot beat that.

On a very selfish note, I get to play the songs in a completely different way. Different arrangements different instruments and a variety of voices. Over the past half year, I've mixed and matched Rob, Lloyd, Matthew, Darcie, David and Sandy, guitars, bass, piano, bazooki's, mandolin's, banjitars, cavichina (sp?), gloc, harmonicas, kazoos, IT's SO MUCH FUN!

So thanks to all of the many hosts who have welcomed some version of JP Hoe and I expect we'll be playing many many more shows of this type, if you're interested email me. info@jphoe.com
JP on 06.10.09 @ 08:03 AM CST [link] [1 Comment]

EMM GRYNER TOUR

Last month I took another great sideman (Matthew Harder from house of Doc) on tour as I opened for Emm Gryner across Western Canada. Before we headed out friends and industry had all told me Emm is "the nicest", finally some honesty, she is. We played Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton and Calgary and so long as we made it through the snow (in May), every day was exactly what I hoped. For example: Play show, have a drink, head to hotel, sleep, wake up and go, drive for 6 hours and sound check, eat diner, and play...

The shows weren't in arena or concert halls like with Jann, but they were honest. They were sincere. They were perfect. Some places we sold more CD's than others, some venues has ass holes talk through my set, (into Emm's until Emm put them in their place...politely), but all were perfect. A few months ago I was really down. Probably depressed, it runs in the family, but after this mini tour I'm reinvigorated. I remembered that I'm an optimist, and even though right now in the history of the music industry, we are being hit harder than ever, I have to believe there is a right path and that I'll be able to find it.

I'm not an arrogant person, but I know I'm confident as an artist, and have talent. I know that I can write and perform music someone somewhere wants to hear. As my dad would say "this is a development opportunity" and the Emm tour reminded me of that. Thanks Emm, Sean, Matthew, Todd, Grant and dad.
JP on 06.10.09 @ 07:40 AM CST [link] [2 Comments]

I'm good now...

mood: Relieved

I am better now. My last blog was dramatic and depressing, but that is how I have been feeling for the past while. Things have changed. I just got back from a wedding in Chicago, where I was the best man, and it was humbling. I became reacquainted with the one time strangers who have hosted me for thanksgiving. People who introduced me to Italian Beef sandwiches, Chicago hotdogs, bbq'd turkeys etc. They came to watch shows without a hint of knowing who I was, they just came out to support their cousin, sister and daughter. This past weekend brought me back 3 years, the last time I played Chicago, and so many warm feelings. I can't wait to get back, hopefully with a band, and hopefully before XMAS.

Thanks Chicago!

In other news, I am so excited to go out on the road next week. May is busy busy busy. I get to meet and play with the incredibly talented Emm Gryner, travel with a new musician Matthew Harder, and visit cities I have not been to for some time. So excited to play my songs. It's my fault I have not been able to get back sooner, but I will not dwell on the past, just what's ahead. Hopefully, folks come out, especially to the big show in Vancouver, and we can get the momentum moving again, and get to the next step. HEY WEST, I'm on my way.

JP on 05.05.09 @ 07:11 AM CST [link] [3 Comments]

Spring where are you, please, I'll change, come back...

I have figured it out, I am unofficially depressed. I'm ready for warm weather, I'm unimpressed with my career, my office is a disaster, I have yet to start my taxes, I have not been playing where I should be, the industry won't touch the record, I had laryngitis my entire weekend in Las Vegas, TV Tropolis keeps airing 1985 episodes of America's Home Videos instead of the scheduled knee slapping News Radio, and am lacking motivation to do anything radical to change either problem, my rain dance lessons are not working.

And the worst part is I am an optimist. I can step away from this grim Gus and see how fantastic life is, how lucky I am, that every aspect of my life could be ten times worse, that I have the sweetest niece I can babysit whenever I want, my life is good. Being able to acknowledge the brighter side but not letting it soak in adds to the sinking feeling. I'm just blue.

The thing is, I do not want sympathy or pity I just want some direction, some semblance of balance. I want to see blue prints, and hear confidence so that I'm building a life thats solid, has foundation, no more improv, no more blowing in the wind. And folks may say, "Do it, just go and get it", but I need to do things on my terms. I know how to skip the line, but selling out would be felt every night I sang a song that had no meaning to me, no connection. I don't want to regret paths chosen later in life. I don't want my ethics compromised, thats what separates myself and the manufactured acts. I've already accepted that my journey probably won't lead to massive fame or recognition, and that is very okay. But when "artists" regurgitate everything given to them, I wonder if they even realize what they're doing? Who they're forgetting, was there anyone in there in the first place?

I don't know. I'll ride April out and head to May with a much brighter outlook. I'm heading on tour out West for the first time in a long time and these house concerts are proving to be amazing experiences. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for folk fests, and that things may still yet fall into place. It really could be worse, as soon as Lindsay gets back from Cuba, I'll have her slap it out of me.

JP on 04.02.09 @ 01:12 PM CST [link] [3 Comments]

MEMPHIS...my stomach will go on

I went to Memphis last week. I've been a few times before, touring South, but this time I went as a participant in the North American Folk Alliance Conference. And you're right, you may not think of me as folk, but pretty much once you strip away all of the electric instruments don't most songs sound folkish? Well at least thats how I feel about my music, and I think it's a good thing. But, this was my first year experiencing that which is the Folk Alliance and...wow, it was unique. Spanning over 4 days and nights, with a couple hundred acts, a couple hundred presenters (bookers, folkfest buyers, industry people in general) and 1 hotel. It was intense. With workshops in the day and showcases at night there wasn't much time to leave the hotel and there was too much to do on the inside. I brought Rob down to the conference because I sort of figured "guys with acoustic guitars" were probably a dime a dozen, and any addition let alone the great playing of Robert would be useful. Correct. But what were these goals? What was I coming to accomplish? I don't know. At least I didn't when we left.

So we arrived on Wednesday evening and I did have a funny happening on the plane. One of those moments you're not sure who felt more awkward but it goes like this. My flight from Winnipeg to Chicago had me sitting beside a woman around the same age as me, and at the beginning of the flight she offered some gum, and made some pleasant small talk. As soon as the plane reached it's cruising altitude, I promptly put on my headphones for the duration of the flight. Not because I'm a jerk, but mostly because I was tired and would have been faking the whole conversation, and thats rude to her. So when we landed the pilot mentioned we would be taxiing for a bit on the runway, and the whole plane started to chat with the person next to them...okay, okay.

JP: "So are you on business or holiday, or going home?", I inquired politely?
Gal: "I'm going to a conference in Texas. I work for ACME, and you?" she said.
JP: "Conference in Memphis, music related."
Gal: "Oh are you a musician?"
JP: "Yup"
Gal: "Are you in a band?"
JP: "Yup"
Gal: "What's the band name?"
JP: "J.P. Hoe"
Gal: "Oh my god I have your albums in my car right now! I've been to one of your shows."
JP: "Fantastic, thanks for the support."
Gal: "I have a friend who went to school with someone in your band, his name is John Smith"
JP: "Hey yeah I went to school with him! He was great guy. I don't see him around much, but he was a good guy."
Gal: "Oh wow, yeah he is a good guy. So what is your name?"
JP: "JP Hoe"

I love when those conversations happen. I feel bad if she felt bad, but I doubt she did, and I'm glad for that. So we made it safe and sound to Memphis, and it was a weekend filled with folkies, comfort food, and good will. There was a great delegation from Manitoba (Jackpine, Lindsay Jane, Jacob and Lily, Romi Mayes, Matt Epp, Kerri Woelke, The Duhks, Alana Levandoski), let alone Canada, who were there and kept me from feeling too much like a fish out of water. I had the chance to meet one of my favourites, banjo player Bela Fleck as well as hugged Abigail Washburn and remembered how thankful I was for playing last year's Winnipeg Folk Fest.

The evenings were spent walking from hotel room to hotel room on the top three floors of the hotel, as artists showcased their stuff. There were moments it was surreal, like when I sat in a room (front row) with 9 others for a Joel Plaskett concert. It was great. Another room, sponsored by a festival in Louisiana had free beer, wine, redbull and strike me dead if I'm lying, the world's best GUMBO. Nights were super fun, mornings were generally painful.

If you're wondering if we went to Graceland, I have luckily already been there with my pal Matt Worobec (TELE) many years ago, and so didn't make it back, but it is a strange and beautiful place anyone who appreciates music history should visit.

BBQ. I went twice, the first experience went like this.
"Chris Frayer, Rob, and the fellas from Jackpine and I went to the Rendez Vous. The same one found on most "Best of Memphis" BBQ tv shows, and it lived up to expectations. It's located in an alley. Smoke billows from the huge concrete wall towering above the basement entrance. You emerge through the dry chalky air like super heroes in their movie trailer clips, and head downstairs for an experience. It's busy. Red checkered plastic table clothes, wood panelling, and memorabilia some tacky some tasteful, scattered on the walls. The servers sway through the maze of tables, but they seemed a blur to me. I floated to our table, didn't need to look at the menu and had a delicious full rack of ribs. Rendez Vous has a dry rub style. You can add sauce if you want, but it's clearly not necessary. The side of baked beans go down smooth, and the mustard tinged coleslaw made for a terrific counter point to the salty/savoury baby backs. the buns seemed softer than usual, and perfect for the sponging procedure that takes place to capture the last bits of juice, seasoning, beans or slaw on my plate. Good friends, soft American beer, and Rendez Vous ribs, you're probably thinking what I'm thinking...honeymoon!"

But most importantly the weekend is about the people. Friends from Memphis I haven't seen in ages, new friends from around North America and shaking hands with those from the industry which would be difficult to strike up otherwise. I'll leave this blog on a final anecdote:

I was manning the Manitoba Music booth in the exhibit hall for the last hour on the Saturday afternoon. The exhibit hall has at least 50 booths all geared for music and music industry people stopping in, glad handing and the sort. So, I was there, Rob was here and there and a gentleman approached the table.
(abbreviated version)
Gent: "Hello"
JP: "Hello"
Noticing a few promotional copies of the Dear John Letters on the table he inquired.
Gent: "This JP Hoe, he was on my list to see this weekend. Do you know if is playing tonight again?"
JP: "No, unfortunately he is done showcasing, but you're more than welcome to take one of his albums."
The gentleman then grabbed the CD and pulled it close to eyes checking out the art work and the track listings on the back.
JP: "So as you know, he's a singer-songwriter, and this record is the full production version. Some rootsy, some pop, but all in all it's a good listen."
Gent: "Yes it is too bad he is done but I will give this a listen."
JP: "Certainly do. I hope you enjoy."

What is wrong with me? A few things I think, but this felt like a Larry David moment. I couldn't stop myself. All weekend it was self promotion this and self promotion that, I'm not quite sure what came over me. I was hoping to run into him somewhere in the hotel, but it was not meant to be. Funny thing was, I was relaxed, comfortable and poised with him. Selling yourself from the third person perspective enjoyable. Now whether anything comes of it, time will tell, and will he recognize the photo in the liner notes was me, time will also tell as well as how good or bad his vision was. This moment reinforced how difficult being an independent musician is on the soul. I get panicky and anxious when I have to sell myself, and I never feel it comes off as successful as when someone else is working it for you.

Thanks to Sean, Sarah, Manitoba Music, Rob, Chris, Curtis, Carrie, Holly, Lindsay, Jackpine, Jacob and Lily, Bela, Abigail, girl on flight, pig I ate, and anyone else who made the weekend so fantastic.
JP on 03.02.09 @ 08:21 AM CST [link] [4 Comments]

The n-n-new year

This has taken some time to get to but I felt mildly inspired and mildly guilty. For anyone who is interested I am fine and have been going through many changes. Not so much puberty, (though I am anxiously anticipating the completion of that transition in my life), rather there have been some changes in the JP Hoe background. I find it a bit amusing that I "broke up" with two very amazing and important people in my life...in the same week. I feel sad, and terribly nervous about regrouping and ploughing ahead, but that is life. My dad always says "whenever something goes sour, big or small, it's a developmental opportunity", and I do agree, it just doesn't feel good.

But I'm looking ahead and have some fun plans for the trillions of JP Hoe fans, even the ones who don't know they are fans. Resolution #1, do more. I have decided that I will try to blog once a week! Though I find it tricky to sit down and write them, it's cathartic and lets you know what is going on. The podcast will get finished whether it's funny or not, more likely not. Vlogs (video logs) seem like such a fun idea, I tried it once, didn't have fun, but maybe I sleep walking and nothing is fun then. Finally, I am currently setting up a site for anyone who is on the mailing list or fan sites to download acoustic versions of songs most already know. If you want some, sign up!

Resolution #2, stay cheerful. I'm a pretty positive person, but I'll be damned if this business doesn't knock you down. Luckily I have friends and family and the good sense to not let minor things grind you to a halt. It's not worth it and it takes up too much of our lives.

Resolution #3, more good deeds. I have a couple of charities that I "work with" and even though I don't hold much clout, you cannot feel bad if you go out and do good for others. I have a plan brewing and you will know when it hatches.

Thats it, there's the first blog of 2009. Thanks for being fans and thanks for all of your support. I will be out to see you in your neck of the woods soon, in 2009 there are no excuses.

JP

JP on 01.28.09 @ 08:15 AM CST [link] [2 Comments]

SO it's a new year

music: weird melodies floating in my head
mood: almost relaxed

This has taken some time to get to but I felt mildly inspired and mildly guilty. For anyone who is interested I am fine and have been going through many changes. Not so much puberty, (though I am anxiously anticipating the completion of that transition in my life), rather there have been some changes in the JP Hoe background. I find it a bit amusing that I "broke up" with two very amazing and important people in my life...in the same week. I feel sad, and terribly nervous about regrouping and ploughing ahead, but that is life. My dad always says "whenever something goes sour, big or small, it's a developmental opportunity", and I do agree, it just doesn't feel good.

But I'm looking ahead and have some fun plans for the trillions of JP Hoe fans, even the ones who don't know they are fans. Resolution #1, do more. I have decided that I will try to blog once a week! Though I find it tricky to sit down and write them, it's cathartic and lets you know what is going on. The podcast will get finished whether it's funny or not, more likely not. Vlogs (video logs) seem like such a fun idea, I tried it once, didn't have fun, but maybe I sleep walking and nothing is fun then. Finally, I am currently setting up a site for anyone who is on the mailing list or fan sites to download acoustic versions of songs most already know. If you want some, sign up!

Resolution #2, stay cheerful. I'm a pretty positive person, but I'll be damned if this business doesn't knock you down. Luckily I have friends and family and the good sense to not let minor things grind you to a halt. It's not worth it and it takes up too much of our lives.

Resolution #3, more good deeds. I have a couple of charities that I "work with" and even though I don't hold much clout, you cannot feel bad if you go out and do good for others. I have a plan brewing and you will know when it hatches.

Thats it, there's the first blog of 2009. Thanks for being fans and thanks for all of your support. I will be out to see you in your neck of the woods soon, in 2009 there are no excuses.

JP

JP on 01.27.09 @ 01:29 PM CST [link] [3 Comments]

Just bloggin

music: Listenin to Coldplaya
mood: cheerful

Yeah it's true, September is my favourite month. I remember coming back from the lake to go to school. It was bittersweet, because up to junior high there was always a new summer crush, and parting was such sweet sorrow. That being said I remember that September led to so many high school romances, and that it set the tone for the rest of the year. I remember getting up early 3 times a week for wind ensemble (bass clarinet all four years), and I remember all of the birthday party's I had in September. My family did not have much spare cash, but birthday party's were never a let down. The best was taking 12 guys from my hockey team to the Ichiban, where we indulged in the Karate Kid Special, headband included! And I also remember getting a clock radio one morning before elementary school started. It was the rectangle shaped type with 2 round discs poking out of the right side of the box. I think I wanted this cause my grand parents had one with blue digital numbers, mine had red, and I thought it was real nice. I like the leaves changing, and the seasons shifting completely, and my nose getting chilly.

This year is gonna be good too. The release of the CD and the concert has all of my attention. We're about a week and a half away and then I have two friends coming up from New Orleans to see the show and a chance to relax in Winnipeg while things settle down. It will be nice to be a tour guide in my own city, doesn't happen often and it should. My hope now is to promote the CD and connect with everyone who has purchased a previous record and has ever been a fan, followed by tour after tour after tour. Going for the brass ring.

-JP
JP on 09.04.08 @ 10:16 AM CST [link] [3 Comments]

AUGUST AND SUCH

music: office hum
mood: a very good mood

August has arrived and I think this may be the most relaxing month. Sure theres things to set up come fall, but I think I'm relaxed. Folk fest was an amazing time, playing 4 shows including my very most favourite full band concert ever on Sunday afternoon. Sunday night was great too, playing to 20000 people, opening for Ray Davies and getting a shout out from him!

But now it's on to bigger and better things...I hope. The official CD release is coming up Sept 13th, and I'm eager to try out a new venue. The Winnipeg Art Gallery has a great auditorium where from what I can tell is used for the once a year Cann's funniest commercials festival. It has crazy 70's Captain Kirk chairs for the audience, a grand piano for us, and a real creative vibe. It's big, warm, and should the first time a rock show ever set up shop. Featuring the truly richards, and Ruth Moody there will be too much talent in the room. I guess I just hope everyone who needs to hear about the show does. I even scored members of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, to join in on a few songs! This is gonna be awesome.

Until then, we are working on the official JPHOE Podcast show, that will be available to everyone and set for launch September 13th as well. So much goings on, I hope to hell that life stays this busy for some time.

Back to work

JP

JP on 08.13.08 @ 10:52 AM CST [link] [4 Comments]

Whoa...that was a week

mood: relieved

I am now breathing a bit better. It's tuesday morning and the stress of playing my first Winnipeg Folk Festival is over. The past 7 days have been crazy. Last week I needed the CD's to come in, I needed Rob's broken/sprained knuckle to heal, I needed two rehearsals, to host (with some heavy weights on the panel) my first workshop, to play during the perfect storm, to try and not drive myself crazy worrying about the band show and topping it off with a quick performance in front of 20 000 peeps. I am alive, and am better for the whole situation. The weekend was thrilling and taught me much about how I handle stress and more to the point how I don't handle stress. Seemed like fate, I literally had an entourage of friends surrounding me (when the artist in me came out) and that "self-deprecating JP" showed himself. They showed me some new breathing techniques, kept me laughing and just helped me stay positive, because being hyper critical is one of my strong suits.

The shows themselves went great. The workshops felt awkward only in that most of my songs are riddled with crazy chord progressions, therefore it was plenty difficult for the other musicians to join in and "jam" as the crowd so eagerly wants. That sucked, but that's maybe the only challenge to being a square peg in a round holed event. And Saturday, oh my god, it was 5 C with the wind chill, with rain and hatred from the sky, and I watched one of my favourites, Bela Fleck play with no distain or visible angst. He was like one of the ships on the Deadliest Catch tv show, charging towards the wave. Everyone at that workshop was tough. If they went on, we knew we were playing no matter what. On Sunday the full band set was probably my favourite moment of the festival. It was tight, the view from stage was full, and I mean really full, of bodies stretching out to the back hill, and they were into the set. The set list was the best yet, and every second was satisfying, I'm going to use that hour as a happy thought if I ever find real pixy dust. At night, chaos ensued just prior to Rob and I playing to the main stage audience. First it was "you have 20 mins", then "Mr. Davies wanted to go on at 8:45 sharp", so it was down to 1 song, then it became settled on two songs...The thousands of people looked like colourful blurry dots, and it was kind of weird. Harder to connect, which could have also been due to the briefness of the set, but it's another challenge I'm really looking forward to conquer in the future. But we did it, and I felt good after. And Ray even thanked us during his set, for opening up for him, your welcome Ray.

The craziest part of the weekend was, the 4 hours prior to every show/set I would be a nervous jerk, then when I got backstage, or started laying down my chords on stage, everything vanished. No butterflies, no sweating, no worst case scenarios, it all evaporated in an instant. That was cool...and eerie at the same time.

And now as I begin getting CD's ready for distribution around the country, and on the internet, I want to let people know, they will be available soon. Online at first and in stores by fall. Thanks for your support, and for everyone who was at the festival, thanks for clapping and for not booing or throwing hemp products on stage in protest of a pop act rockin out.

JP

JP on 07.15.08 @ 04:30 AM CST [link] [19 Comments]

Happy Summer Richards!

With July around the bend there is so much to tell you all about; the record is done, the Winnipeg Folk Festival is approaching, and as you can tell there is a brand new website to surf around.

THE DEAR JOHN LETTERS
JP has finally finished the Dear John Letters LP, and is eager to put it in everyone's hands. The journey began at the end of September and 9 months and 18 songs later the final mastered version arrived last week. The record is currently being manufactured in time for the 2008 Winnipeg folk festival. Afterwards, the album will be available on CDBABY.com, itunes, and in stores across Canada by fall. Enjoy the samples online and we hope you will love the album as much as JP does.

2008 WINNIPEG FOLK FESTIVAL
That's right in 2 weeks JP will play in his hometown's internationally acclaimed Winnipeg Folk Festival. Over the weekend he will play a couple workshops (Fri+Sat), a full band concert (Sunday), and the ultimate tweener spot (Sunday night). The first copies of the Dear John Letters will be sold in advance at the festival, so if you want a copy before the rest of the world this is your chance! For tickets check out the folk fest website, and we'll see you in a couple of weeks! www.winnipegfolkfestival.ca

THE ALL-NEW JPHOE.COM!
Noticed anything awesome in front of your eyes? Yup, we decided it was time for a change and voila, here you have it. Created by L13 Design, there are plenty of new photographs, lyrics, and lovely extras for you to sample. As well, there are also two new pages if you would like to join the JP Hoe Truly Richard street team, or would like to host a JP Hoe house concert anywhere in world. If you are a facebooker, follow the link in the left hand corner of this page and join the JP Hoe fan page. Meet others who dig the Hoe and, who knows, maybe you'll rekindle the flame with your girlfriend from the third grade.

JP on 07.03.08 @ 12:33 PM CST [link] [14 Comments]

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