Ladies Night

Like a musical box of chocolates, Friday nights at the Three Blind Mice Irish Pub, in downtown Mt. Clemens, Michigan have become an enigma, in that each and every night has something different awaiting us when we arrive.

This particular, unique Friday began just as auspiciously as any of them.  Until our set-up routine determined that one of our guitars would not send any sound to our PA.  That was a problem, alleviated only by sending for another guitar.

After settling in with a long first set, it was time to greet several good friends who came to support us.  John, Kelly and Dennis arrived to savor the extensive adult beverage selection.

(Dennis flew in from Colorado to give his blessing to our musical endevour.)

Believe me when I tell you that these three are experts in all areas involving alcoholic consumption practices.  Getting the “Thumbs up!” from them was quite an endorsment.

As the second set began, we were joined by another group of friends who came as far as the Florida keys to share their evening. Justina and her entourage descended on the Mice to bring us the “girl flavor”, we had been sorely lacking.

While playing our usual mix of Irish, country, folk, rock, island and whatever, I noticed some people singing along at the very far end of the pub.  (thank goodness!)

It was only when they moved to the first table that I recognized who it was.  Rose and her sisters had joined us again, to our great delight.  (oh, and a cousin too!)  They had seen us back in February, and finally got everyone together to share another special night.

They all loved music, and made it quite evident, as they sang just about every song with us for the rest of the night.  What a great experience for us, being able to play to some really special people that enjoy each and every note.

Another unique, “happening” took place early on, as a gentleman on his way to the bathroom, requested Carl give him a mic, so that he could “Send a message out to all the ladies . . . ”  All we know is Calvin had them all swooning in the blink of an eye, with only the use of his incredible voice!

If anyone thinks that LA, or Nashville is where our country’s musical talent lies, I would certainly make an argument for Motown, without much hesitation.  There is no richer bed of musical heritage anywhere.  We see and hear it most every time someone sits in to share it with us.

As the evening evolved, Justina took my place and became the center of attention, strumming and singing several of her favorite “Chick songs”.

There was some Alanis Moressette, Melissa Etheridge and even 4 None Blonds to keep everyone entertained.

After a short get-together with our friends it was time to take back the stage to finish the night.  Halfway into the first song, the entire crowd was singing and clapping as one.  It was a wonderful feeling to be able to move everyone to song.  Very rewarding.

Although I feel I have said it a thousand times; it is the people that make each night unique and wonderful for us.  By being there.  By singing along.  By sharing their stories and thoughts and musical ideas, in ways we could never have imagined.

Smiling faces and hearty laughter is a great way to spend a Friday night.  Throw in a few good songs, and it might just be musical nirvana.

On this night it was all about the ladies.  Carl and I both hope that they realize how special it is to have them there to share our talents with.

And for those people that came from far and wide; we hope that they take back with them a memory or two of both melody and mirth, curtesy of Bob and Carl.

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