*** New Year Outlook, 2026

Here's a reflection for us music artists, entering a new year, and inspired by some recent conversations I've had at the open mics...

At the 2024 NERFA, I attended a short seminar given by musician, songwriter, author, Tara Shannon. In her book, I found this eye opening, a-ha moment/revelation: "There is this collective expectation, that the journey of an artist is linear: a straight line forward that eventually leads to this mysterious place called "Making It". But it isn't. It is in fact, a circle. You do go around and around doing the same thing over and over again, but you have a strategy and focussed intent, and every time you loop that circle, what you create starts reaching more and more people; your music starts creating a ripple effect in the world that gets bigger and bigger with every cycle. It's like the rings of a tree growing outward, and expanding with time, until the presence of you and your music in the world is like a great big tree." - Tara Shannon, from "You and the Music Business"

https://www.tarashannonofficial.com/

https://www.willow-sound.com/

*** Friends, I'm honored to be Master of Ceremonies for Billy Claiborne and the Five Believers celebration of Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue, 50th Anniversary. Myself and the talented Nathaniel Bradley, will open with a short duo set, and then later we'll jump in on a few tunes with the band for the big finale. So come hang out with Nathaniel and I for this fun Bob Dylan tribute. See you there!

Thurs. Jan 22., 8-11pm

Billy Claiborne and the Five Believers (w/ TIMKO & Co.)

Cantab Underground, Mass. Ave, Central Sq., Cambridge, MA

Save $ and get tix in advance ($10): https://tunehatch.com/shows/252586684

Here's YouTube Sampler of their Dylan sets

https://youtu.be/Be8p_-Nt60Y?si=EGes5CdHb5uq-xW_

*** Ward 4 Open Mic Update

We'll be ending the open mic at bit earlier (9:30pm) starting now, in 2026. Unfortunately, we cannot start earlier due to dinner business conflicts. Here are the new, official times:

Open Mic Wednesdays at Ward 4

Sign up: 6:30

Music starts: 7pm

Music Ends: 9:30pm

Ward 4,

*** Go Patriots!

> HAPPENINGS

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/happenings

*** Abe Dewing performing with Crush, a Dave Matthew's Tribute and (Steve Rondo of Devlin's open mic to open the show!)

Friday, Feb. 20th at Sinclair, Harvard Square. Cambridge, MA

https://www.axs.com/events/1216494/crush-a-dave-matthews-band-tribute-tickets?skin=sinclair

(Abe is our fiddling' friend from Porters and Ward 4 open mic, Zack Bolles Band, Tyler Casavant Band and more)

*** Don't Forget Your Art!

Saturday, March 21st

at United Parish of Auburndale. 

This is a regular event series designed to give artists and performers of varying experience an opportunity to show their gifts in public. It seeks to raise money for a cause and provide a bit of money to artists and performers for their efforts.

More info: https://dontforgetyourart.net/

For future bookings, ask Eric at  https://dontforgetyourart.net/

> SPECIAL THANKS

- Thanks to Abe Dewing for your double open mic kindness card/gift/and friendship

- Thanks to Kristen for introducing me to Pilates

- Thanks to the hosts and staff for stepping up and turning the KofC Thursday open mics into a "place to be"

- Thanks to Jen Osterhout for help with my websites and socials. (message me if you would like her to help you as well!)

> TIMKO Socials

Website

www.TIMKOmusic.com

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/timkomotion/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/timkomusic/

TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@timkomusic

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at Porter Belly's Pub

338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

Sign up 7:15pm, Music 8pm-11:45pm

2 song sets. Acoustic vibes, PA with 2 mics and 1/4" inputs

*** Wednesdays at Ward 4

277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

Sign up 6:30pm, Music 7pm - 9:30pm

2 song sets. Acoustic vibes, PA with 2 mics and 1/4" inputs

*** Thursdays at KofC (Knights of Columbus)

23 W. Foster St., Melrose, MA.

Sign up 7pm, Music 7:30-10:30pm

Rotating hosts including, Mark T (1st), Johnny O.(2nd), Tom Ryan/TIMKO (3rd), TomCat (4th), Tom Ryan/TIMKO (5th)

3 song sets. Acoustic vibes, PA with 2 mics and 1/4" inputs, small drum kit, keys on request.

More info at:https://www.facebook.com/groups/musicinmelrose

Greeting all!

Hope you all have a nice Holiday season. Thank you for all of your community-ness! We are looking forward to more music in 2026!

~ TIm

> NEWS

***  Holiday Themed Open Mics

Wednesday, Dec. 17th,

sign up 6:30pm. Goes til 9:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

https://www.ward-4.com/

Thursday, Dec 18th

sign up 7pm. Goes til 10:30pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus)

23 W. Foster St., Melrose, MA (2nd flr pub)

Monday, Dec. 22nd

sign up 7:15pm. Goes til 12:00am

at Porter Belly's, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA

https://www.instagram.com/porterbellys

*** No Open Mic on Dec 24 and Dec 31 at Ward 4.

See you in 2026!

*** Website additions... an album experience: "So Long" by The Almighty Buck

We've been working on updating my music site. Here, you can stream our whole EP, plus scroll through lyric boards, see slide shows, read the credits. The goal here is to give the fans a place to get the "album experience" like we used to do with CD's, cassettes, and records. Also, it's something you won't get from spotify/apple/amazon etc. We're planning on doing more for other projects and welcome your feedback. Thanks!

https://timkomusic.com/experience-so-long

> RELEASES by OUR OPEN MIC COMMUNITY

*** Danny Schwindinger: "Trailhead"

A singer/songwriter based in Boston with roots down the Jersey Shore, Danny grew up listening to Bruce Springsteen, Jimmy Buffet, Marc Cohn, and traditional Irish music. After writing songs and doing open mics for years, his debut EP,  "Trailhead" is out now!  It was produced by Terrance Reeves, (former co-host of Terry O’Reilly’s Open Mic Jam) and recorded at Q-Division Studios in Cambridge, MA. "Trailhead" comes in handy when you’re looking for something that can be played around the fire when you’re camping in the hills. Featuring Jimmy Buffett’s long-time bassist, Jim Mayer. Check out “Trailhead” everywhere:

https://linktr.ee/schwindinger

*** Terrance Reeves, Music Producer:

Looking for someone to help you produce your music? Terrance Reeves is a producer, audio engineer, and musician based in Boston, MA. His goal is to work with artists and musicians from all levels to help them find a way to express what feels true to them through sound and recording. Terrance has an ear for finding just what a song needs to take it to that next level. Terrance Reeves is the former co-host, along with Andrew Geano, of the wild and infamous Terry O’Reilly’s Open Mic Jam. If you need a record made, Terrance says he’d be happy to help!

Contact him at:

 https://terrancereeves.com/

> HAPPENINGS

Check it! … more events listed on our website: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/happenings

*** Ryan Kim w/ Ethan Mackler

Thursday, Dec 18th

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

https://www.ward-4.com/

*** Brian Burrill

Friday, Dec. 19th, 7:30 - 11pm

at Tommy Doyle's, 349 Watertown St., Newton, MA

https://www.doylesnewton.com/

*** Brain TV featuring Joseph D'Amore and Matthew RYU

Sunday, Dec. 21st., 5-8pm

at Zusamman Wine Bar

2322 Mass Ave., Cambridge, MA

*** New Year's Eve with The Wagging Knives

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

https://www.ward-4.com/

*** New Year's Eve with The Mud Ducks

at Porter Belly's, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA

https://www.instagram.com/porterbellys

*** TIMKO & Co.

Friday, Jan. 2nd, 9pm - close

at Tommy Doyle's, 349 Watertown St., Newton, MA

https://www.doylesnewton.com/

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd), TIMKO (3rd), TomCat (4th)

More info at:https://www.facebook.com/groups/musicinmelrose

Happy Thanksgiving friends!

You make me thankful, and to be thankful is an understatement... this community of music lovers is what keeps me warm through the winter. ~ Tim

*** Thanksgiving Eve Open Mic at Ward 4

We'll be running our usual 7-10pm open mic at Ward 4 in Newton, MA the night before Thanksgiving. Sign up starts at 6:30pm. It's typically a really big holiday for friends and family to meet out, so please keep us in mind for you and your friends that play music. And after Ward 4 closes, there's plenty of places to go on nearby Moody St., & Main St. in Waltham.

*** Songwriter's Matinée in Somerville.

Digit Parka, Tyler Casavant, TIMKO.

Saturday, Dec. 6th, 4-7pm

Union Tavern, Union Square Somerville, MA

(infamous punk club)

Hope to see you there for the whole show celebrating Digit Parka's big birthday!

(plus the after-party)

"The Digit Trust" (a songwriter showcase)

4-5pm - TIMKO

5-6pm - Tyler Casavant Band

5-7pm - Digit Parka

cash at door: $10

*** Save the Date! 2/20/26.

Abe Dewing performing with Crush (Dave Matthew's cover band) and Steve Rondo (of Devlin's open mic) to open the show!

Friday, Feb. 20th at Sinclair, Harvard Square. Cambridge, MA

https://www.axs.com/events/1216494/crush-a-dave-matthews-band-tribute-tickets?skin=sinclair

(Abe is our fiddling' friend from Porters and Ward 4 open mic, Zack Bolles Band, Tyler Casavant Band and more)

*** Open Mic Holiday Parties

- Dec 17 at Ward 4

- Dec 22 at Porter Belly's

> RELEASES

*** Wayward Vine, "The Fall"

Wayward Vine is a Boston-based Americana and indie-folk band led by core songwriters and co-vocalists Valerie Rachel and Greg Lawrence. Together with their band, they perform harmony-based originals that explore lyrical themes of heartbreak, obsession, and the wide range of emotions involved in family relationships, and their music is often compared to The Head and the Heart, 10,000 Maniacs, and The Civil Wars. Their upcoming shows are December 13 at the Jungle in Somerville (starts 4 pm) and January 31 at the Square Root in Roslindale, MA.  (8 pm).

https://waywardvine.com/

> UPCOMING SHOWS

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays. 7:30pm sign up

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays. 6:30pm sign up

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd), TIMKO (3rd), TomCat (4th)

More info at:https://www.facebook.com/groups/musicinmelrose

Author unknown:

Did you know that having a song playing in our head all day and not being able to stop it? This phenomenon is known as “musical worm”.

OCTOBER NEWS

Greetings All,

Hope everyone had a great Porch-Fest season! By the looks of it on socials, there appears to be a very active music scene in our Greater Boston area.

Here's some fresh updates for us.

Be well, ~ Tim ( www.TIMKOmusic.com )

***Monday, Oct. 27th. Halloween Costume Party at Porter Belly's, Brighton, MA

This is always a good time... also, get 1/2 price wings/tenders from 7-10pm during football season. Yum! Sign up starts 7:15ish, Music starts 8pm, Ends 12am.

***Ward 4 Musicians

Hey, check out the artist spotlight on Ward 4's website! https://www.ward-4.com/events

...It showcases our weekly open mic and features cool images of regular players... Abe Dewing, Nathaniel Bradley, Mike Purtell, Tyler Casavant, Leandro Alonso, Aidan Devine, and yours truly. Every Wednesday. Sign up starts 6:30, Music at 7, ends at 9:45pm. 277 Auburn St., Newton, MA

*** Big Thanks

to Thom Griffin, Leandro Alonso, and Abe Dewing for covering for me at the open mics when I could not be there.

***Our Community is growing and taking to the streets!

It's so great to see our open mic community growing and connecting, from shows at the Midway and Jungle with Thom Griffin, Planet Nine, Julia Nadeau, Hadar, Ethan Mackler, Ben Cooper, etc, plus the Robin-Woodstock, and Abe Dewing's recent who's who porchfest.

Now Satish, of Digit Parka, has put together a later afternoon, all-original-music show in early Dec., which includes yours truly. Hope to see you there for the whole show and after-party!

Saturday, Dec. 6th

"The Digit Trust" ( a songwriter showcase )

at Union Tavern, Somerville, MA

4-5pm - TIMKO

5-6pm - Tyler Casavant Band

5-7pm - Digit Parka

cash at door: $10

> HAPPENINGS

*** Hal Holiday's Singer/Songwriter Night at Warp and Weft.

Note:If you're a songwriter and can bring a few folks to see you in Lowell, check this night out and reach out to Hal. [ https://www.facebook.com/halofatime  ] - It may be for you!

Tuesday, Nov. 18th, 7-9pm

Featuring TIMKO and 3 other local singer/songwriters in the round.

at Warp & Weft, Lowell, MA

Hal hosts a monthly Songwriters in the Round at Warp & Weft, in Lowell, MA which features four regional musicians. It's a great spot with stage/sound/lights and yummy food/drink right in historic downtown Lowell. I'm honored to be participating on Tue. 11/18. Hal Holiday:

*** Zedervan Reunion Show

Tues., Nov 11, 5:30-8pm

at House of Blues Foundation Room

Landsdowne St., Boston

before the Jason Bonham Led Zeppelin Tribute Show

space can be limited, so check with the band about tickets here:

https://www.instagram.com/zedervan?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MXRuYXJnZzJyM3R3ag==

Also, that mean Sam Lenney will be in town on 11/10 for Porters Open Mic!

*** NERFA (Northeast Regional Folk Alliance)

Nov. 6-9th, Albany, NY

The annual conference consists of networking opportunities with venue operators, radio DJ's, managers, booking agents, performers, and many other people that make up our acoustic music scene from Philly, Montreal, Boston, and Greater New England. Plus, they feature great classes and seminars on how a performer can dial in their music goals and get to the next level.

Register here:

https://nerfaconference.org/

*** New England Music Awards

Sunday, November 16th (winners announced). 4pm-9pm
Six String Grill and Stage – Foxboro, MA

Check out the nominees here:

https://nemusicawards.com/

*** Boston Music Awards

December 17, 2025 at Big Night Live., Boston, MA (winners announced)

The Boston Music Awards (BMAs) is one of the longest-running regional music award shows in the U.S. Since 1987, the BMAs have recognized and celebrated local musicians across all genres.

Public voting runs from October 10, 2025 at 12:00pm until November 14, 2025 at 11:59pm.

Check out the nominees here:

https://bostonmusicawards.com/nominees/

*** Community Calendar

If you're playing a gig or porchfest, let us know by filling out this form to be featured in the Community Calendar.

(only available to newsletter subscribers, this link is only found here, in this letter.)

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

> RELEASES by OUR OPEN MIC COMMUNITY

***Mahadasha - "Trains"

Jackson Wu has a really cool album out called, "Trains"... it gives me a bit of that Elliot Smith vibe. Plenty of neat guitar parts, chill grooves and words.

He can be found at both Ward 4 and Porter Belly's.

Check it out:

https://linktr.ee/mahadasha

*** Paul Phillipino - "World's Collide"

Links:

• YouTube - unlisted link his friends
• SoundCloud - his page on the musicians' social network

> GIG OPPORTUNITY

*** Don't Forget Your Art!

...is a regular event series designed to give artists and performers of varying experience an opportunity to show their gifts in public. It seeks to raise money for a cause and provide a bit of money to artists and performers for their efforts. Next show is Winter 2026 at Unite Parish of Auburndale, 64 Hancock, Newton, 02466. Just off the pike. Talk to Eric for future bookings of original singer/songwriter music. https://dontforgetyourart.net/

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd), Mark T (1st), Johnny O.(2nd), TomCat (4th), Mystery Host (5th).

Find more info at: www.BostonLovesMusic.com

Find my music and happenings at:

www.TIMKOmusic.com

"The life I love is playing music with my friends" ~ Willie Nelson

SUMMER NEWS

*** HEAD'S UP!!! Tues., 7/1 at TOAD/McCarthy's, Cambridge. Be There or Be Square! 8-11pm.

Epic lineup of TIMKO with band Zedervan... Sam Lenny (returns from San Fran), Micki Dupnik, Mike Purtell, Michael O'Keefe, plus Abe Dewing, Ace Brown, Matt Brundrett (returns from LA), and more!  We will be jamming on a bunch of groovy reggae/island/emerald tunes, possibly a little Zedervan set as well if the stars align?! Tuesdays at TOAD are the residency of Jimmy Kelly's Irish Reggae... we're holding down the fort while he's about. Easy parking across street in shopping plaza after 6pm. Get there early and enjoy a meal at McCarthy's while enjoying Irish Session music. Toad is the tiny music club through the doors near the bar.

TOAD at McCarthy's, 1912 Mass Ave., Cambridge.

*** Wed., July 2nd there will NOT be an open mic at Ward 4. However, I will be guest hosting the OM at Hugh O'Neil's in Malden! 7:30 sign up, 8pm start.

> HAPPENINGS

*** NERFA Conference Early Registration July 5th

https://nerfaconference.org/

Northeast Regional Folk Alliance annual conference will be held Nov. 6-9th in Albany, NY. The conference features a mix of industry explanatory panels, peer groups meetings of venue managers/house concert holders/working musicians/etc., performances of well known names and those you might want to know, plus late night showcases of performers from all across the Northeast US. It's a great time! Early registration offers a sweet discount worth committing to. $300 for members, $350 for non members until 7/5.

*** Julia Nadeau sings National Anthem

July 13th, our friend, Julia(Porter Belly's open mic), will be singing the Star Spangled Banner at the Sea Dogs game in Portland, ME. Congrats, Julia!!!

> RELEASES

*** Nick Vecchio, "Man of My Word"

listen: https://www.nickvecchio.com/music

Nick is owner of "Band Gig School of Music & Performance" in Norwood and Dedham, MA, where they organize individual students to form bands. They rehearse, record a demo and perform at concerts raising funds for local charities.

...and check out his fun side project... Nick's Supper Club, which showcases cooking events, secret recipes and live music, all of which can be seen on over twelve local television stations around MA & CT, as well as, on YouTube. He's even got his own line of Nick's Supper Club Hot Sauces.

follow: https://www.instagram.com/nick.vecchio.35

*** Village Idiots, "St. Petersburg"

Hey y'all, check out my son's band and their new single, "St. Petersburg" on all streaming platforms. (He's the drummer)

https://open.spotify.com/track/71cTGbY59tEsJN2u9cIjbF?si=bf39dbc3e7c24131

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

More info at: www.BostonLovesMusic.com

Hey folks!

My computer is busted!!! : ( 

This May newsletter is late and lacking.  Apologies to those that were hoping to be listed in the Community Gig calendar. I hope to be back up and running asap and will get the website updated as well. 

Here a few mentions worth mentioning:

***Registration is now open for the NERFA Music Conference, Nov 6-9 in Albany, NY. Early bird registration receives a sweet discount!

https://nerfaconference.org/

• Their Youtube page really shows a lot of what the conference is about and there is an abundance of videos on there ranging from industry panels, to performances and more. 
• Find tons of communication on their Facebook page

*** Welcome back, TOAD!!! McCarthy’s and Toad. in Porter Square, Cambridge, on Mass Ave.

Toad was, and now is again, one of the coolest music spots in the Boston area. 

Thank you and congratulations to the McCarthy’s for keeping this spot alive, as well as being the fertile soil for our local music scene. They also own the Burren and the Bebop!

And Yay! ~ Tom Bianchi’s “Baker Thomas Band” residency is back at Toad every Wednesday at 9pm! Tom is Boston’s cherished bassist, emcee, talent buyer, music scene proponent and works closely with the McCarthy’s. Follow Tom.

This article is a tad dated, but has good info on the Toad project. 

*** PORCHFESTS

• The season has begun! Check out our listing of as many local porchfests we could find! If you’re performing in one, let us know by filling out this form, and we’ll list it on the BLM site. (as soon as I get my new computer up and running)

*** OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd) Tom Catalini (4th)

More info at: www.BostonLovesMusic.com

~ May your Memorial Day weekend be safe, fun, full of music, and a time to honor the brave men and women who served our country. 

Be well, ~ Tim

APRIL NEWS

*** Midway 4/9/25 @ 8pm

Some of our Porter Belly's Open Mic crew will be playing the Midway Cafe in Jamaica Plain. Planet Nine (Dani, Troy, Lara) and Single Yike (Julia, Thom G)! alongside Fully Celebrated Orchestra.

*** Please note, on Thursday, April 17th, NO open mic at the Melrose Knights of Columbus in observance of Holy Thursday. Follow it at https://www.facebook.com/groups/musicinmelrose

***Upcoming Porchfests in May

more info... https://bostonlovesmusic.com/porchfests

- Somerville . May 10

- Watertown . May 17

- Malden . May 31

- Dorchester . May 31

*** LOWELL. Songwriters in the Round.

Folks, I'm excited to announce I'll be sharing a "Songwriters in the Round" with Ralph Santosuosso, (owner of the fabulous live music venue, Capo's of Lowell). I played there with my band, The Almighty Buck, back in the mid-00"s, and in the same building in the 90's with my college band, Cotton Mouth / Boot Mill Flavor. Ralph is a great musician and plays regularly with his band, Hubcap Romeo. We recently reconnected at the 2024 NERFA convention. The show, hosted by Hal Holiday, will also feature songwriters, Katie Dobbins and Brother Seamus. Warp and Weft is a great spot to catch live music and yummy food in downtown Lowell, MA.

Tue. April 15th, 7pm @ Warp & Weft, 197 Market St., Lowell, MA

*** Are you interested in getting a pro video done for your music promo? Join me and videographer, Lindsay Straw (www.lindsaystraw.com)...  I'll be doing a recording video for my own music promotion some soon Sunday afternoon and we'll have time for a couple other solo acts to get on board as we utilize the beautiful space of a local Newton, MA restaurant during non-working hours. This is a first time experiment and will cost somewhere between $75 - $125, for your finished video. If you're interested, please email me and we'll continue the conversation with more details. Tim @ bostonlovesmusic@gmail.com

*** Happy Easter, and happy spring! Thanks to all who keep in touch, and fill us in on their music ventures! ~ Tim  ( www.TIMKOmusic.com )

> RELEASES by OUR OPEN MIC COMMUNITY

artist: Tyler Casavant

4 song EP: “I Think, I Know”

listen: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/tylercasavant/i-think-i-know/

follow: https://www.instagram.com/tylercasavantmusic/

artist: Paul Phillipino

single: Nomadic Life

listen: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/paulphillipino/nomadic-life-single/

follow: https://www.instagram.com/paulphillipino/

about: Paul Phillipino (you'll recognize from Porters and Ward 4 open mics) is a singer-songwriter and music lover. Here you'll find songs that channel the formative 1990's alternative rock sound of his youth into geopolitical and historical themes, with social awareness, suitable for the disjointed 2020's. His latest single is, Nomadic Life, about welcoming "the stranger".

artist: Jen Kearney

single: Long Division

follow: https://www.instagram.com/jenkearneymusic/

listen:

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Jen Kearney has spent some time seasoning her particular style of original music. Her sound is truly an amalgamation of musical styles including Soul, R&B, Funk, Rock, and Latin.

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd) Tom Catalini (4th)

More info at: www.BostonLovesMusic.com

> HAPPENINGS

We've got more events listed on our website: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/happenings

*** Community Calendar (people of our open mic scene)

If you're playing a gig or porchfest, let us know by filling out this form.

(only available to newsletter subscribers, this link is only found here, in this letter.)

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

> THINKING

▪️Music can help us in reasoning processes and significantly improves the motor areas of our brain. That’s why it is believed that music emerged to “help us all move together.” ~ internet find

Happy FAT Tuesday!!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

*** 2025 Porchfest Season has begun!

Visit us for more info on what's going on with local porchfests:

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/porchfests

Porchfests around the Boston area have grown tremendously, unique to the country. Porchfests are great: Showcase original music. Gain experience performing live. Make musical connections. Grow your audience. Share in the joy of music, without the pressure of a venue gig. Visit other cities. Capture video and audio content for future opportunities. Host music at your home/office/organization. Make a party of it!

Does your city/town want to start one? We suggest reaching out to Kirk Israel for advice and possibly help if you need. Kirk is the guru/web designer for many of the porchfests around Boston.  https://porchfest.info/

Looking for Porchfests around the country? How fun would it be to make a little tour/roadtrip for porchfests and open mic's? Here's a start:  https://www.porchfest.org/porchfests-elsewhere/

*** Hidden gem music venue, Niagara Coffee Haus, and Open Mic in Millis, MA!

(Thanks to our friend, Bob Greenman for this addition: Bob is a singer/songwriter, guitarist and harmonica player)

The Niagara Coffee Haus is a unique concert venue and listening room housed on the top floor of Niagara Hall, the historic 1800s era firehouse museum in Millis, MA. Acts in their calendar include The Kennedys, Willie J Laws Band, Kate Campbell, Jennifer Tefft and the Strange, Robin Lane, Dwayne Haggins, Lisa Bastoni, and many others.

Website: https://www.niagaracoffeehaus.org

Open Mic on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Original material is encouraged, but not required

Signup at door starts:  6:30, Open Mic Starts: 7:00, Ends: 9:00 

Details: 2 song sets.  The Niagara Coffee Haus is a non-profit music venue with a non-alcohol listening room and phenomenal acoustics, in a beautifully restored 1800s vintage fire house.  

Gear includes: house PA system, 3 mics, 3 1/4" instrument cables

Song Circle (multi-genre acoustic jam) on 1st Thursday of every month - bring a song or 2 or 3 for everyone to jam on!

Starts: 7:00, Ends: 9:00

Hosts: Bo Veaner and Ken Porter 

*** New Open Mic at Widowmaker Taproom, Brighton

Thursdays, 7-10pm

Hosted by Sean Kenneally and Jimmy Kelly

North Beacon St.., Brighton, MA

> MUSIC BIZ

*** Local Discovery Radio: Homegrown Showcase, 92.5 The River

Want to get featured on 92.5 The River? Local artists/bands can submit their info here:

https://theriverboston.com/discover/radio-programs/homegrown-music-showcase/

"Join the River every weeknight at 10PM as they shine a spotlight on some of the best homegrown talent from in and around Boston."

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO www.timkomusic.com )

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

More info at: www.BostonLovesMusic.com

▪️Did you know that having a song playing in our head all day and not being able to stop it? This phenomenon is known as “musical worm”.

> HAPPENINGS

*** Community Calendar

If you're playing a gig or porchfest, let us know by filling out this form.

(only available to newsletter subscribers)

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

Greetings All!

It's been a long time since I've released any music, and that's heavy on my mind. This newsletter shares a few things I'm aware of for us songwriters. Please feel free to share with me other resources out there we should all know about.

and... Happy Valentine's Day! ~ Tim

*** Reminder: One Love! Reggae Open Mic Theme in Honor of Bob Marley's Birthday!

Mon. Feb 3 @ Porter Belly's ( a lively night, 7:30- 11:45pm )

Wed. Feb 5 @ Ward 4 ( a beautiful room, chill vibe, 6:30 -10pm )

hosted by TIMKO https://bostonlovesmusic.com/open-mics

> ON SONGWRITING (because I love songwriting)

*** The Boston Chapter of NSAI - (Nashville Songwriters Association) is run by Terry Kitchen and Stan Lyness (who'll you'll know from both Porter's and Ward 4 open mic, (plus countless others). They meet approximately once a month, typically on the last Wednesday from 7pm to 10. Folks share songs they're working on to hear constructive feedback, and occasionally discuss the craft or business of songwriting.  About 4 meetings a year are in-person at First Evangelical Lutheran in Waltham and the rest are online Zoom meetings.  For details, go to  https://coolsongs.us/nsai/ . Click "calendar" to view sign-up, join the mailing list and see further meeting info.

*** Nashville Songwriters Association is the mothership of NSAI . It has a membership and a lot of resources. ...cut to the chase... this video comes from the NSAI {  https://vimeo.com/event/4821175/54519a6604 } "Paul Sikes - The Evolving Songwriter" ...here Paul shares his journey to becoming a professional songwriter. It can be found on the "Weekly Workshop" series of the NSAI website. https://www.nashvillesongwriters.com/ . 

*** Listen Up! Originals Only Open Mic

An open mic night for songwriters. Originals ONLY, no covers!

Every 2nd Tuesday! Next one... Tue Feb 11th

8:30 pm | 21+ | Free

at Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Boston, MA 02130

For more info: www.instagram.com/listenupsongwriters/

*** SAVE THE DATE!! Northeast Regional Folk Alliance (NERFA)

November 6 – 9, 2025. Annual Conference, at The Desmond Hotel,  Albany, NY https://nerfa.org/

NERFA is a sort of branch off the Folk Alliance International. They hold an annual conference and do a few other things throughout the year. The conference is meant to connect musicians, songwriters,  organizations, industry, radio, managers, agents, venues, and do-ers in the Northeast Americana music. You'll probably get a better feel of what NERFA is via their YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NERFA

Here's a link to a video I've listened to twice so far. Granted, it is a bit dated from the Covid days, but the insight of these professionals is eye opening and a good example of what NERFA has to offer.  It features the exclusive panel of industry vets,  Biff Kennedy ( Charter House Music Group https://biffco.com/ ), Sarah Atkinson ( Soundbox Music https://soundboxmusic.ca/ ), Kari Estrin ( https://www.kariestrin.com/ ), and Berklee's Ralph Jaccodine ( https://www.ralphjaccodine.com/ )

> HAPPENINGS

*** Community Calendar

If you're playing a gig, let us know by filling out this form and we'll add it next newsletter. This is available to those on our mailing list. 

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

More info at: www.BostonLovesMusic.com

JANUARY NEWS

Greetings All. Happy New Year!

*** One Love! Reggae Open Mic Theme in Honor of Bob Marley's Birthday!

Mon. Feb 3 @ Porter Belly's

Wed. Feb 5 @ Ward 4

hosted by TIMKO https://bostonlovesmusic.com/open-mics

*** January Schedule at KoC in Melrose

No open mic on Thur. Jan 23rd as the club as an event that night.  There will be OM as usual on 1/16,   1/30, and on. updates in here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/musicinmelrose

*** Teen Coffeehouse Open Mic

Jan 5, Feb 2, March 2, April 6. Sundays, 3:00-5:00 pm. music, poetry, and spoken word.

Are you a teen interested in performing? Contact coffeehouse@fyamelrose.org to submit your name.

at Follow Your Art. 647 Main Street, Melrose.

hosted by Sammy McQuaid & Oren Santillo

https://www.fyamelrose.org/fyaevents/

> RESOURCES

*** North Shore Venue/Band List - Stanslist

Folks, look what I just found! This a great list of venues and bands for live music above Somerville, MA. This is a great resource for booking gigs, and knowing who's playing in the scene. Thanks Stan!

"Find live music north of Boston"
https://stanslist.com/index.html

> HAPPENINGS

***Boston Calling 2025 is HERE!

May 23 - May 25

https://www.bostoncalling.com/

New this year... "merging the Green and Red stages into a single rotating stage system that not only enhances audio and visual elements but also allows for a more fluid movement of the crowd between performances." ~ Axs.tv

https://axs.tv/news-story/boston-calling-2025-festival-lineup-announced/

*** Residency: Stan Martin Band

First Saturdays at Sally O'Brien's, Somerville.

Awesome twanging telecasters and great original music!

https://stanmartin.net/

*** Community Calendar

If you're playing a gig or porchfest, let us know by filling out this form.

https://bostonlovesmusic.com/gig-submissions

> OPEN MICs, (Hosted by TIMKO)

*** Mondays at 7:30pm

at Porter Belly's Pub, 338 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135

*** Wednesdays at 6:30pm

at Ward 4, 277 Auburn St, Newton, MA 02466

*** Thursdays at 7:00pm

at KofC (Knights of Columbus) 23 W. Foster St., Melrose, Hosted by TIMKO (3rd & 5th), Mark T (1st) ., Johnny O.(2nd & 4th)

More info at: https://bostonlovesmusic.com/open-mics

Author unknown: When listening to music, your heart modifies its beats to try to imitate the rhythm of the music you listen to.