I was honored to again emcee the second annual Mama Hellcats at the Hook & Ladder. The night includes six performances by nine powerfully musical mamas to raise funds and awareness of local resources to support victims and families experiencing domestic abuse. (Scroll past videos below for more info on the specific resources.)
It’s the brainchild of Katy Tessman, whose organization skills are as formidable as her voice. She speaks from the heart about her own experience to help lift up anyone who might need the encouragement to improve their lives. Come for the empowerment – but stay for the amazing music.
I’m going to cheat and use my intro notes to intro the videos below, but I want to say the night was full of fun and community. Bands play one right after another from the two stages in the big room at The Hook. The crowd followed the music with rapt attention. The quality of the music was stellar!
Annie and the Bang Bang has a rocking passion and a wry sense of humor like Boys in the Mosh Pit Having Feelings. You can almost hear the history of rock in her set from some 1970s influence, a little 80s punk and helping create the current sound of the Twin Cities.
Samantha’s songs make you want to be her friend. Her voice just melts your heart and she embodies that rare mix of vulnerable and cool. Her first EP came out 19 years ago – and her latest, Stripped, is getting some awesome attention. In fact, she’s hot off the trails of her Josie award for Americana/Folks Female Artist of the Year – last week. I want to make sure to mention her upcoming show on November 15 at the Aster.
Heartland Souvenirs (Nikki, Becky, & Katy)
The Heartland Souvenirs are a super band of mamas including Nikki Lemire, Becky Schlegel and Katy Tessman. Alone they can fill the stage but with Nikki on harp, Becky on guitar and Katy with mandolin they each bring a distinct ingredient to the dish. Being fair, I’ve spent the last two week in Ireland but together their voices marinate like the perfect stew on a rainy day.
Kashimana’s music is deep in that way you feel it in your heart, gut and toes. She lulled the crowd of 80,000 marchers at the No Kings event in June. So impressive. I got to really chat with Kashimana a few weeks ago when she was a guest on Mostly MN Music. She is also a delight. She has a Mamas Ignite Collective Circle for BIPOC mamas and artists on Nov 24th.
Joyann has a soulful, R&B sound that grabs your attention to the stage. It’s danceable, which is always a hit with me. She lifts of musician foremothers with her Tribute to Classic Ladies of Country and especially Patsy Cline. She has that Patsy Cline power and brings it up through to today. I’m pleased to introduce Joyann Parker.
Kelley’s voice on a song like I Wanna Dance can bring the world to a hush. While I have seen Rachel belt out a song like Gay Kids – like Kashimana on the steps of the MN State Capitol – and get the crowd hopping. Together they are mesmerizing. I got to talk to more on the radio show with Kashimana. They are the poster children for best friends. They bring that to the stage and suddenly the stage feel like the last row of high school algebra with irreverent laughter, except we’re all in on the joy. I’m pleased to introduce Rachel Kurtz & Said Kelley.
RESOURCES
Sojourner Project’s mission is to provide emergency shelter, support, and legal advocacy services to those victimized by domestic violence and other forms of interpersonal violence. They advocate for victim safety; support the transition from victim to survivor; and educate for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence. You can volunteer, donate money and/or donate items. They
Bridging provides donated furniture and household goods to families and individuals transitioning to housing stability. They have locations in Roseville, Plymouth, and Bloomington. You can volunteer, donate money and/or donate gently used furniture. They are currently looking for items for their holiday boutique where low income families can get each other holiday gifts.
Domestic Abuse Project (DAP) works with adult survivors of domestic violence, helping them heal from abuse.
The Dwelling Place offers safe, transitional housing and Christ-centered supportive services for women & children who have suffered domestic abuse. You can volunteer, donate money and/or donate household supplies.
Mostly Minnesota 