Like the majority of you, all of us in the Philadelphia area are staying at home, learning to adapt to our “new normal.” MAGNET is checking in with local musicians to see how and what they’re doing during this unprecedented time. Photos by Chris Sikich.
I hope everyone reading this is holding up OK. I don’t really know how to answer the question of how am I doing anymore. I suppose, much like everyone else, I’ve been experiencing emotional ups and downs. Time feels exceptionally strange, sleep eludes me, and when I do drift off, my dreams are vivid.
I’ll admit, I am appreciating the new spanses of time to work on music and art. Over the past couple months, I’ve collaborated with some musician friends across the country, working remotely on new material as well as some cover songs. Fortunately, Long Hots are pod pals, so we have been able to do some playing. I’ve also reignited my drawing practice and am reading a lot. Books about nature, especially regarding deep time, have been helping.
As lockdown began in March, I’d just finished my third solo LP, so I’ve been accepting the heartbreak of postponement of that plus zero touring and the total precariousness of the future. As a musician, I’m expected to market myself, but that feels so off to me right now. Everything is uncertain, and we are in the midst of the largest civil rights movement in history, which deserves our full attention, and it’s important to respond in ways that are meaningful. Black Lives Matter, so please vote, contact your lawmakers, donate, hit the streets if you’re able, educate yourself, listen and be good to one another.
I first fell in love with music by experiencing the connectivity and healing ecstasy it can bring, and I am reminded of its power during this time in history. I am grateful for the lifelong companionship of music, and I pray for the creative community, as well as the small venues that have supported the careers of so many of us.
I’ll continue to share my work over the coming months in hopes that it brings a bit of comfort. I really miss playing for you all, and I miss my band(s). I also want to thank my fans for your continued support through Bandcamp, which helps to keep me afloat, as well as fundraising for various causes. I know it’s a rough time for everyone, and it means the world to me.
I love you.
xo,
Rosali
