Supporting Musical Arts ~ What's on your CD?

Not my picture. I snagged this from Sam's website.

     Last night was one of those unforgettable nights. We weren't just celebrating three birthdays with extended family...no no no... we were celebrating it with a family member we haven't seen in years, along with an up and coming artist I haven't seen in so long, it's embarrassing to admit to...so I won't.
     You see, we all met at Natalie's Coal-Fired Pizza and Live Music up in Columbus. Not just for the awesomeness that is pizza, but for the spectacular music they showcase six nights a week.  Last night happened to be extra special for us because Sam Lewis drove up from Nashville and played there for the first time.  Sam happens to be Hon's lawyer cousin Andrew's best friend. They did a lot of growing up together, and have never lost that friendship. It's so nice when friends stick through the lean and the fat, not letting life flip their biscuits and pull them apart.
     Anyway, as I was saying, last night Sam played Natalie's stage after we all stuffed ourselves with pizza.  I was totally impressed with his voice, his style, and his...well...plain 'ole rightness to be there.  He made us laugh, he made us smile, our toes didn't stop tapping, and we couldn't help but leave with our own CD of his music to listen to after we hit the road.
     Sam's been a singer/songwriter for years. He has a smooth voice that draws you in.  Last night was a solo act, just him and his guitar, but he's had the opportunity to play with some impressive musicians.  I also heard him on Ohio's public radio station giving an interview and playing a few songs earlier this morning.  I'm telling you, whether you hear him on stage, on CD, or on the radio, he draws you in.
     Here's the thing I feel a need to ask you... What are you doing to support the arts? From painters to musicians, museums to stages all of sizes, what have you done lately to support aspiring up and coming artists? Our history is loaded with playwrights, poets, musicians, dancers...the list goes on. You can find artists in venues of all kinds.  From restaurants and coffee shops to the big stage, artists are everywhere. I challenge you to get yourself out of the house this coming weekend and visit a local artisan venue of some sort, whether it's that burrito shop that has music on the weekends, or the historic playhouse.  Get your culture on!     So, there you have it folks.  Sam Lewis...Natalie's Coal-Fired Pizza and Live Music.  You can find Sam, his touring schedule, and some great information on his music at http://samlewistunes.com  If you're in the Columbus area and your mouth is watering for uber good pizza along with musical talent, check out Natalie's.  You can find more information on their restaurant and calendar of events at http://www.nataliescoalfiredpizza.com  Trust me, you'll be glad you did.  Oh and Sam, you should be on cloud 9...not only for the incredible music you have gifted us with, but also the fact that I got through my whole story without mentioning once how I remember you and Andrew playing G.I. Joe when you were but wee kiddliwinks.  I'm happy for you and your accomplishments!  Smiling & Waving, Sharon 

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Link to Sam Lewis' Website

Link To Natalie's Coal-Fired Pizza and Live Music