I’m so enjoying this little spot on the performance map. Cellar 55 is a great setting for a musician and a wonderful atmosphere for wine loving patrons. I’ll be performing this Friday, Oct 24 from 6:30-8:30pm with my usual playlist that includes, Elton John, BIlly Joel, James Taylor, Kenny Loggins, The Beatles, Van Morrison, Elvis Presley, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac and some originals, too. Would love to see some familiar faces.
One of my new favorite places to play is Cellar 55 in Vancouver, WA. I’ve been invited back to perform on consecutive weekends. This Saturday evening, Oct 18, I’ll be performing cover tunes from Billy Joel, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, Michael McDonald, Bill Withers, Bob Dylan and many others. I’ll perform some of my own originals including songs from my album “In Those Days,” along with some original instrumentals and whatever else comes to mind. This Saturday’s gig is from 6-9pm.
Then the following Friday evening, Oct. 24 I’ll be performing from 6:30-8:30pm at Cellar 55. I’d love to see some familiar faces.
This week in music finds me preparing for two gigs. Tuesday evening, HomeBrew, will be performing at Velo Cult Bike Shop, 1969 NE 42nd Ave, in Portland’s historic Hollywood District. We play from 7-8:15pm and are the first of two bands. It’s a benefit for Oregon Special Olympics and there is a $10 suggested donation. Showing up early is highly encouraged.
Wednesday evening, what used to be my monthly Jade Lounge gig has gotten even more intimate. Meeting in a home with Jade Lounge band members and friends for an evening of sharing songs we all know, along with hearing some originals. Should be a wonderful evening of music and laughter.
If you live in Vancouver and enjoy wine and some local live music, I’ll be at Cellar 55 this coming Friday evening Aug. 8, from 6:30-8:30pm. I’ll be doing cover tunes of the cool musical cats I grew up enjoying including, Billy Joel, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Tom Petty. Along with the Doobie Brothers, Otis Redding, The Beatles, Chicago and many others.
I would love to see some familiar faces this coming Friday evening at Cellars 55.
It’s the 4th Wednesday of the month, which means the Jade Lounge band I’m in will be prepping the stage, or in this case the sofa, for some very special guests. A group called The Better Halves will play an hour long set at 8pm.
You just never know what might happen when a group of music enthusiasts combine their talents to see what happens.
It all starts at 7pm. Stop on by the Jade Lounge 2342 SE Ankeny St Portland, OR 97214.
Beautiful day to be playing music for the folks at Cotton Cloud Natural Bedding in NE Portland. Super nice folks and easy on the eyes store layout. Played for all kinds of patrons of all ages. A fun two hours spent on this Saturday. Cover songs from Billy Joel, Elton John, Beatles, Elvis, Van Morrison, Jimmy Buffet along with some originals from my album, “In Those Days,” done acoustically. However, any time I performed with the ukelele, that got the best crowd reaction.
This Saturday, July 19, I’ll be playing in front of Cotton Cloud and Natural Bedding on NE 7th and Broadway, under their large awning. I’ll be there from 11a-1p. This is all part of the NE Broadway Summer Super Sale.
Just booked Friday Aug. 8, at Cellar 55, from 6:30-8:30pm. Located 1812 Washington St. Vancouver, WA 98660. I’ll be playing classics from Elton John, Billy Joel, James Taylor, Elvis Presley and others.
Great crowd, nice evening with the garage door open letting in all the summer warmth into the restaurant. Folks seemed to enjoy some the classic oldies I did with my own twist to them along with some of my originals. Really connected with those listening. Great vibe in that place. Hope to come back again, soon.
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
Wednesday evening at the Jade Lounge in SE Portland was a complete success. Here is a picture of the band: Left to right: Doug McCleary, Cynthia O’Brien, moi and John Hasenjaeger. We were given the band name, “Legion of Ambiguity.” We kinda like it.
The plan is to return next month on March 26. I’ll keep you posted.
Chris Taylor Tunes 
