Music was always a family affair for me growing up. My sisters, parents and I always shared musical discoveries with one another. It was customary to hear artists like Pink Floyd, No Doubt, Tool, Sarah McLachlan, Bob Marley and Eminem all brought up in the same dinner table conversation.
But no musician that I had ever introduced to my family had ever sparked as much united passion as a certain ukulele player I just happen to have the honor of working with…
Of course I mean Jake Shimabukuro aka “ukulele sensation” aka “one of the hottest axman of the past few years” aka “the Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele.” Upon showing my parents Jake’s spellbinding cover of “Bohemian Rhapsody” they were hooked.
My sisters and bro-in-law followed shortly after. And when the whole clan heard that Jake would be playing a town over in New Hope, PA, they immediately bought tickets and waited anxiously for the day of the show to come.
And on Wednesday, their waiting ended…
My sisters, parents and bro-in-law with Mr. Shimabukuro
Needless to say, they enjoyed his performance. “He’s just grrrreat!” said Dad. “It’s so inspiring to see someone play with such passion!” gushed bro-in-law John. His covers were “amazing,” (sister Cindy) while his ingenious originals prove him to be “an incredible talent!” (other sister Melody).
Of course this is nothing I didn’t know already. And I can’t wait to hear what magic Jake conjures up on his new Alan Parsons-produced (!!!) album ‘More Ukulele.’ I’m sure it will leave my entire family speechless. As my mom said, “I don’t know how he does it. Unbelievable.”
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