Five years and eleven days ago, at the tail end of my 50s, I committed to writing and performing my own songs. It was my birthday and the day I launched this website.
https://paulheilker.com/blog/blog/6413496/20-august-2020-here-we-are
Yesterday, for the first time ever, I played a full three-hour gig using only my own material.
It's been a process, to say the least. I've learned a lot, in unexpected ways. I may have finally, finally, finally outgrown my impostor syndrome. It feels good. I am eager to see what the next five years brings.
Deep, deep thanks to Aileen Murphy, Kat Mills, to my friends and family, and to the many strangers along the way who were kind enough to stop and say they liked what I do. I am grateful to you all.
Moreover, I could not do what I do -- and would not be where I am -- without the generosity of local business owners who support original music and musicians. They are a critical part of my successes to date.
These patrons of the arts include --
Hannah Lester and Moon Hollow Brewing
https://www.facebook.com/moonhollowbrewingco/
Deb Edwards and The Blacksburg Farmers' Market
https://www.facebook.com/blacksburgfarmersmarket/
Barb Gillespie and OuterSpace
https://www.facebook.com/outerspaceva/
Rachel Doyle, HazelBea, and Ericka Snell at Radford Coffee Company
https://www.facebook.com/radfordcoffeeco/
Bob Schmucker and Mike Franke at the 3rd St. Coffeehouse
https://www.facebook.com/3rdStreetCoffeehouse/
Lee Mills and Jason Derek at The Beast of Blacksburg
https://www.facebook.com/beastofblacksburg/
Thank you all, very much, for being part of my path. I look forward to seeing you again soon.