I’m back at Rose City Food Park this Saturday afternoon from 3-4:30pm, as one of the featured musician’s for their Mini Brew Fest. The weather for Saturday looks hot, which means, cold brews and live music wait for you. I’ll be jamming cover tunes from Hall & Oates, America, Billy Joel, Elton John, Elvis and some of my own stuff.
Sit a spell and cool down this Saturday afternoon.
This Friday evening at Cellar 55 in Vancouver, WA, I will be joined by my H-Duo partner Jeff Haagenson.
Jeff and I have played in a full band together for nearly 13 years and off and on as a duo. I invited Jeff to join me this Friday to resurrect some of our favorites we haven’t played in awhile. Our set list includes: Jason Mraz, Hall & Oates, Ingrid Michaelson, Train, Bruno Mars, Dan Folgelberg, James Taylor, along with some original blues instrumentals and whatever else comes to mind. Each of us will also take turns doing some solo stuff, as well.
Join us this Friday evening starting at 6:30. Great way to end your week and start your weekend.
Taking a little over 400 mile round trip working excursion east to Kennewick, WA., to help the Hughes Physical Therapy celebrate 25 years in business. Owner, David Hughes, is the cousin of my wife, Barb Hughes, and he’s hired me to perform music from 11am-2pm this coming Friday in his office in Kennewick, WA.
Being a 3 hour gig, my typical music selection will be peppered with more instrumental songs, most of them originals. Fun to pull those out from time to time.
Looking forward to seeing some of my wife’s extended family along with good driving weather.
Transitions. I think I’ll name my next album, Transitions.
I’ve been transitioning in my personal growth and as a husband. Recognizing the mistakes I’ve made in my marriage, but instead of beating myself up for them (as I would have in the past) changing myself for the better instead.
My family is transitioning, as my two young-adult children are beginning to explore the world and discover their callings.
I’ve transitioned out of my church of nearly 40 years. A very difficult transition, but one I had been mulling for several years as I’ve sought how to reflect ethical authenticity and compassionate love.
I’m transitioning as a musician. I’ve learned that I’m seen as a singer/songwriter. Never knew what to call myself before that, but I like that moniker.
All those transitions, and many others, have influenced my guitar/piano-based songs, with more organic arrangements, simple melody lines, and lyrical depth that help tell my changing story.
I still celebrate being in love: So many of my newer songs reflect my 26 years with my wife Barb. I tackle songs that deal with loss and grief and how we’re all touched by these emotions – not hiding from them, but embracing and working through them.
I’m reconnecting with some of my instrumental roots, too. Performing songs I wrote nearly 30 years ago that still stand the test of time, along with newer songs that reflect thoughtful, playful vibes.
I continue to live, breathe, and write as a Portland Oregon resident, which gives me a gentle and nurturing platform for exploring transitions.
Here’s to opening new places, new journeys, new hope through transitions.
Chris Taylor
I have always been a fan of instrumental piano driven music. George Winston and Keith Jarrett’s more contemplative compositions come to mind. I’ve recently recorded two instrumental songs. One song, “Goodbye,” I have been performing for more than 30 years and it was used in a video celebrating my church’s 50th anniversary.
The newest song, “Sabbath,” uses a simply chord pattern with strong melody line. Both songs are reflective and emotional.
Pop instrumental stylings with smooth jazz influences and a tinge of Vince Guaraldi are the backdrop for this easy to listen to album. Written
and recorded on consecutive Friday evenings after a weeks worth of work, the album also gives you some calm and relaxing meditative tunes. Friday Sessions is good on any night of the week.
Photograph by Aubrey Frimoth
Chris Taylor Tunes 
