I know this update has been a long time coming, but I think it is important to look back on our accomplishments, as a way to set goals for the future. In addition, it gives me another opportunity to thank you for your support and love.
2017 was my first full year as a professional solo artist. Crazy. Over the past year, I am grateful to have accomplished the following:
- Raised over $13,000 for recording a new record through Indiegogo
- Played over 130 shows
- Played a show in 42 states and 3 countries
- Played my first shows ever in New Hampshire, Vermont, South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, New Mexico, and West Virginia.
- Drove over 60,000 miles
- Played with artists like Kevin Griffin, Hey Monea, and Humming House
- Played the Little C Music Festival, and Dogwood Arts Festival.
On top of all those accomplishments, there were some personal achievements as well. First, I am very excited to be establishing myself in my new hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Southwest is so incredibly beautiful on a nightly basis, and I could not be more grateful for the hospitality of the community of artists here. Second, I was honored to be invited on the Team Tampa Bay Missions Inc. medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic, for the second straight year. The trip, and the individuals that put it together, have the largest hearts, and I cannot be more grateful to them for the experience. Third, I was overjoyed to play my very first ticketed shows in New York City (Rockwood Music Hall) and Los Angeles (The Hotel Cafe). They are big music cities, and I am happy to be getting my feet wet within their borders.
Then there is you all. Not a day goes by where I am not constantly recognizing what each of you makes possible in my life. While it looks like what I do may all be fun and games, I assure you that there is a constant battle inside my head about whether I made the right decision. A fair amount of being an artist is a rollercoaster of self-doubt and introspection. That said, the notes, posts, and texts that I receive from so many of you, provide me with grounding, faith, and belief in myself.
2018 is going to be a HUGE YEAR. I have big plans, including dropping a new EP, which is going to be the best product that I have ever released, Vintage Blue included. I cannot wait to share it with you, little by little, over the next months.
Thank you for all of your support. Thank you for listening, for watching, for posting, and for your friendship, fanship, and love.
-Benny
