BY KAREN YOUNG
Before there was Kate Perry’s “I Kissed A Girl,” there was Jill Sobule’s “I Kissed A Girl” which became a MTV staple, a top 20 hit and the theme for a Beavis and Butthead episode. An accomplished singer/songwriter, Sobule’s first record was produced by Todd Rundgren. She tours around the country and has played with the likes of Neil Young and Warren Zevon. She even inducted Neil Diamond into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.
BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair). PHOTOS BY SHERRY RAYN BARNETT
San Fernando Valley residents are fortunate to have her playing in their backyard —literally— this Sunday, September 26 at Concerts on the Lawn in Toluca Lake. It’s a house party where people gather in a private backyard with the opportunity to get close-up with influential musicians.
The brainchild of professional photographer and musician, Sherry Rayn Barnett, this is the second year for the music series which features four artists. The location is her Toluca Lake backyard amidst a wall of tall trees that serves as a beautiful backdrop for the artists.
Jill Sobule's next gig in L.A. after Concerts on the Lawn at The Troubador
Barnett has lived her life in music, either through shooting photos or playing music herself. Her photography career began in her teens. Among the hundreds of images she’s captured are: Jimi Hendrix, Bette Midler, Janis Joplin, Bonnie Raitt, The Carpenters, Linda Ronstadt and Roy Orbison.
Barnett says she was inspired to start the music series when the “economy tanked.”
“I thought how cool it would be to build a musical community in a non-commercial venue where people could just come together and listen to good music with a suggested donation only,” said Barnett. “I have the space, so instead of just having a party, I invited musician friends to come play.”
When Mood Indigo reunites it is a time for celebration. See them at Concerts on the Lawn on November 7.
The featured musicians are willing to play semi-acoustic versions of their music to fit the neighborhood atmosphere. All have longstanding reputations and vital careers featuring recording and touring. In fact, Sobule will play The Troubadour in October.
Barnett says her intent is to build the event as a “cross generational, multi-genre concert series.”
Barnett will exhibit some of her music photography on the lawn. Limited chairs are available, so BYOC (bring your own chair). Water and soda available on site, as well as Barque Gourmet Chocolate which is made locally.
Teresa James played last month.
Upcoming concerts: October 24 Perla Batalla (Grammy nominated world music star ) and November 7 Mood Indigo (a popular swing trio whose reunions draw crowds of fans).
Jill Sobule at Concerts on the Lawn. Sunday, September 26 4:30-6 pm. Doors open at 4 pm. Suggested donation $15 (pay what you can). PayPal available through Sherry Barnett prior to concert. Cash at door only. To RSVP to the concert and receive the address, email Sherry at info@sherrybarnettphotography.com. Only RSVP’s will be admitted. Check out the Concerts on the Lawn on Facebook. www.sherrybarnettphotography.com
Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of MyDailyFind.com
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