Tag Archives: karen k and the jitterbugs

Behind and Beyond the music 2015 edition: Stories, features, interviews, guests posts from 2015.

Posted in Interviews by

Friends and random acquaintances routinely ask me, “Why do you listen to kids’ music?” I’ve asked myself the same question many times.

In poking through my Top 20 albums of 2015, an answer snuck up on me: the joy of music discovery. To be presented with and to explore new music is exhilarating – like discovering a whole new color or flavor. Sharing this passion with my daughter Emily (now 7 years old) is great fun and such a bonding experience. She is growing, and the music is growing with her.

For me, music discovery is more than just the songs at face value. It’s uncovering the stories behind the music; it’s connecting with the music makers and understanding the magical, teeny bits of real life, of real people that make the album art come alive. The artists that make up the kids’ music genre are welcoming and supportive and it’s been a pleasure to dive into what drives their creativity and thus, bring their stories to life. Continue reading →

Tunes for Tots: give the gift of music!

Posted in Downloads by

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Recently, Steve Denyes – of the band Hullabaloo – posted that for the months of November and December they will be donating one CD to Toys for Tots for every one that is sold. So far it has been a success with 327 CDs sold (as of 12/2/2014)! Amazing! This act of giving has inspired me to think more about how I can help bring joy to children and families in the same way while also supporting independent artists.

Music is such a valuable resource, capable of providing hope, support, relief, restoration, healing and love (the list could really go on!). Why not spread some of it around?

You can check out Hullabaloo’s FB page for updates as well as some of the other artists who have expressed interest such as Karen Rives Kalafatas of Karen K and the Jitterbugs, Jason Didner of Jason Didner and the Jungle Gym Jam, Trevor of The Zing Zangs and GooberKids Radio, Peter Alsop and Sarah Gardner.

If you’d also like to make a musical donation, check out the Toys for Tots drop-off directory to find a local location. Consider including music from your favorite artist(s) in your donation(s) or you can purchase a CD from one of the aforementioned artists who will ship one on your behalf.

I will be posting a list of my 2014 music picks shortly which I hope will offer you even more ideas for holiday gift giving.