Jan/Feb Newsletter
Greetings, my friends.
If it seems like a long time since I’ve been in communication, it has. Life has taken some difficult turns lately. I believe most of you are aware of the sad passing of my friend and musical partner, Cliff DeManty. Cliff was loved and respected by all in the Bozeman musical community and beyond. See the video above to get a peek at his talent (and a bit of his charm). In the past eight years or so that we played together, I learned a tremendous amount from him and came to depend on Cliff’s friendship. This past year has been a difficult one, as we helplessly watched him slowly succumb to Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He remained positive and kind till the end, always maintaining his sense of humor and gentle manner. We were able to share our music until just a couple of months before his passing, Nov. 14th. On January 5th, Pilgrim Church held a memorial organized by his amazing wife, Mari, and his much-loved daughter, Amy. I had the honor of singing the opening song, one that Cliff had written, “Untitled Prayer.” You can listen to it here: Original Recordings — Cliff DeManty Music. Look at the bottom of the page for “Untitled Prayer.” While on that page, you can also listen to other original recordings he did with local musicians. He was a prolific songwriter and a true gentleman.
Should you be interested, the entire service is available on Pilgrim’s Facebook page: https://facebook.com/pilgrimchurchbozeman and search “Jan 5.”
Life goes on and time passes. I know in my heart that Cliff is okay. It’s those of us left behind who must learn to live in a world absent of his physical presence. He will be with me always.
I have continued to find joy and healing in music, my best medicine. Mostly, I play for seniors at the various facilities around town, which I absolutely love to do. Recently, I’ve enlisted young friend Silas Rae, a talented violinist and mandolin player, to join me. Folks love him. Here’s info about an upcoming public gig with Silas as well as more news. Hope to see you out and about soon!
Saturday, February 3: Edis and Silas at Valhalla Meadery, 6 to 8 pm. Besides its delicious mead and intimate atmosphere, Valhalla also serves authentic Scandinavian dishes. Check out the menu and more at https://valhallabozeman.com. Located across from Story Mill Park on Bridger Drive. No cover. Tips appreciated.
Friday, February 16. Edis at The Break Room: Beer Bar and Lounge, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The newest addition to Bozeman’s musical scene, it’s “a place where one and all can come and enjoy beer, food, old fashioned soda fountain and great company,” according to the website: https://thebreakroombzn.com Located near Colombo’s Pizza at 1011 West College. I’d love to get a good crowd out for this gig as this is my first time playing there (hint, hint). Edd Gryder will be accompanying me on guitar. No cover. Tips appreciated.
And I’m still kicking out the blues tunes nearly every Saturday on KGLT public radio from 3 to 6 pm with my “Blues by Heart” show (not Feb 3rd). You can tune in locally at 91.9 fm or stream and find more frequencies at www.kglt.net.
Stay warm out there! Thank you for your continued support.
Wishing you the best this New Year,
Edis