Reflections

Hi everyone,

Following the recent run of live dates, a blog feels in order.

Despite being besieged by a cold at various points, for me, it felt like the most positive tour I've undertaken to date; the response to the shows has been so encouraging and touching. If you made it along to any of the dates then I thank you for being a part of that. As ever, it was wonderful to return to some familiar venues and meet up with old friends, and also to be able to make new friends at venues I'd not previously played. There were also some lovely surprises along the way from folks I hadn't perhaps expected to see... always a joy. And to those who I know would have made it along under more favourable circumstances, another time soon, I hope. x Audiences, hosts, venue staff et al have been incredibly welcoming and kind. I assure you that it does not go unappreciated, and I look forward to returning to all who'll have me back.

As always, I've been shown great generosity by family, friends, and even strangers, along the way who've put me up and been so hospitable in many ways. You know who you are, and I thank you. On a day off early in the month, my good pal Adam and I headed into Richmond, London, to visit some of the filming locations of the show Ted Lasso, which is a particular favourite of ours. This, I have to say, was another highlight of the tour. 

Neil King of FATEA Magazine made it along to the show in Windsor and, in addition to capturing some fantastic photographs, posted a cracking review of the show which you can read here.

Above all, the thing that perhaps kept coming to mind the most over the course of the tour was the need - more than ever - for the connection that is forged on such occasions. I wasn't alone in feeling it, I know, and whilst many have been kind to acknowledge it after the shows, the fact is that it is all of us together who create it; simply by gathering in solidarity and good fellowship. I'm lucky that I get to be the guy who stands up and sings about it, but I'm very ware that it's a corporate phenomenon, one which manifests when we are of like-mind. If any of the songs helped you to feel that in any way at all then I'm incredibly glad, but please know that I received that same blessing back every night by being encouraged in the presence of people who share the same concerns, hopes, fears, longings, and acceptance, about which I sing. The truth is that I've been very tired for most of the last few days since I got back, but that pales into insignificance next to the encouragement I received from being with folks who are striving for the same things. There are a great many matches being struck out there, and being reminded of that is powerful indeed.

I imagine there'll be another mailed-out morsel from me before the year closes out, but in the meantime, if gift-buying is your thing, then please consider taking a look at the Shop whence CDs, downloads, and lyric books may be obtained.

I have two final gigs before the end of 2025. I'll be at the legendary Low Lights Tavern in North Shields on the 13th December, and Annfield Plain Cricket Club, Co. Durham, on the 21st. These gigs will be primarily covers though (A.P.C.C. particularly) but they'll be a lot of fun. Both events are free entry. The more 'serious stuff' will begin again in 2026. Dates will start to appear soon, but an early heads-up includes a return to the magnificent White Room Music Cafe in Stanley, Co. Durham, on 1st February! Tickets will be on sale soon, and my good friend Sam Slatcher will be the special guest opening on the night. Not to be missed!

Lastly, for any who may be interested, I have a Patreon page to which you can subscribe. It's a great way of helping to support what I do, and as a member, you have access to a number of exclusive resources and offers. Please feel free to take a look and subscribe if you wish. Thank you.

I guess that's about it for now. Do hang in there, won't you? If you're prepping or Christmas, I hope it proves to be a fantastic time for you, and offers some respite in strange and challenging times. Whatever your plans, enjoy! I may well be back in touch before things get too festive, but either way, mind how you go.

With love and gratitude...

Steve xx

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