We are back and feeling refreshed, and more inspired than ever. Here are some photos from our recent show at the Aladdin Theater in Portland, for Portland Soundcheck. It was an awesome night of live music from local Portland talent. The creativity that resulted from this high energy event will be elaborated on as things continue to unfold…but until then…here is us doing what we do, and a big THANK YOU to everyone for your continued support.
No but for real…thank you.
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It’s true. I am taking a 2 week “pause for the cause” as one of my favorite people ever, Norman Sylvester, would say. In the most blazeh (pronounced: blah-zay) way, I am facing a case of musically creative burn out. No, this is not a time of hiding, but rather a simple wake up. I’ve been hibernating, while performing for months now. It’s weird. How do you even do that? Have you ever driven home late at night and realized you have no recollection of the drive at all? …..Yeah. Kind of like that. Scary…but kind of awesome…but never want to do that again…but …whoa….
You know what the most amazing part is? I still loved every second on stage. When the music starts, every ounce of fire in me spits out behind the mic. It’s my ability to craft new material that has suffered. I am blessed to say that as I’ve arrived to this decision after my burnout slumber, I am petrified at what could have happened, and relieved that I am still moving forward, and also in shock because this has shown me a lot. Music is not about any musician or appreciator of art. It’s truly a bigger beast than any artist, or label or critic. You can desire it. But…you don’t really get to choose it. You just take care and let go when the opportunity arrives to make it.
This break is less for me, than it is for the soul of what I’ve come to know art to be. I’m digging deep…and getting ready to take some creative risks that are ready to be taken. I make no promises, other than the next blessed opportunity I get to have my name listed for a show, I will bring something fresh. I’m challenging myself to search for truth, and hope that the music finds you, the supporter, and I right where we need it. Maybe I’m not the only one in this daze.
I will not leave anyone in the dark. These next couple of weeks will cover many areas of life. I hope to line things up both professionally, and musically. I know that the right path is being carved in front of me, and as always, will continue to invite you guys with me!
Peace, love and happiness 
-Sarah
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Were finally here at Crossroads Productions Studios, one of the top recording studios in the Northwest! We couldn’t be more excited! Due to my unfortunate ADD and excitement….I will be subjecting you all to video updates….ok. Enjoy!
DAY 1
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This is for my viewers who look for the pictures in every text, magazine, or book they pick up…and really for everyone…
Our SOLD OUT Jimmy Maks CD Release Party this March was a complete blast thanks to not only all of our Kickstarter supporters, but to everyone who showed up, called, and gave their love!
I had my first appearance on 89.1 FM KMHD with Norman Sylvester and Band! It was such an honor!
Were bringing back our Living Room Session Videos! These videos started as my youtube posts of me on my keyboard singing my own arrangements of covers. I put a pause to them to start playing more live shows, and record our first ever album. After realizing those were our most popular videos, we thought we’d welcome them back with more intent and higher quality! To get a chance to vote in which arrangements we include in our official Living Room Sessions, join our mailing list!!
And of COURSE we’ve been kicking it at our weekly home base on Wednesday nights at the Gemini with Jacob Merlin! These nights have become very special to us, getting to meet new faces and friends, and also share the stage with world class musicians!
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Well, well, well. Here’s to a HUGE bite of humble pie that I’m getting ready to take. I want to thank all of you for your patience and support even in spite of my fumbling and falling behind on maintaining the website and updates! SO, to keep you all in the loop, here is what I am getting ready to do by the end of April:
I am so excited for this summer. The calendar is already beginning to fill up and we’ve only just begun! I’ll have pictures soon from our cd release, as well as video of our performance thanks to our friend Wiley Parker (@Wileyfilm).
Thanks again to all of you! Were getting ready to expand our reach beyond Portland, thanks to all of your support!
LOVE YOU GUYS!!
-Sarah Billings
(*burp* …excuse me…humble pie is filling!)
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When I walked into the dim lit room, my ears were filled with music that landed me in another world. I didn’t know names like Mel Brown, or Renato Caranto. I had no idea that these musicians had ties ranging from Bernard Purdie, The Temptations, all the way up to Grammy Award Winning talent. That, honestly wasn’t even necessary. All I knew was these were classic sounds, with fresh energy that not only gripped my young ears, but would set me on a course that would forever change my musical journey. At the age of 19, I was introduced to this venue: Jimmy Maks.
At that time of my life, I never would have imagined the very stage that changed my musical life, would be the place that would offer to host my very first CD Release party (as the Sarah Billings Band). After 7 years of visiting and listening to the immense talent that has lined the stage at Jimmy Maks…they have decided to give us a shot! I have the opportunity to introduce not only my first personal project, but also my first ever self titled EP, at the venue that has inspired so many musicians and patrons. I’m determined to hand pick, shape and craft this set to the fullest of my ability, and am proud to put this show together with some of the finest, undiscovered talent Portland has seen….I want to to give Jimmy Maks, what it gave me 7 years ago. Fresh new sound, and energy, and a show that will forever linger in the walls of this venue, and in the minds of each one of you that make this very special night, truly what it could only be with you there.
Down to brass tacks! Were throwing a party for our CD Release on Friday, March 9th, and we want YOU to join us! We’ll be at nationally renowned jazz club, Jimmy Maks, celebrating with world class musicians, and the band will be playing a killer show! Come join us! Doors are at 6:30pm, and the show starts at 8:00pm. All ages are welcome until 9:30pm, but the second set is 21+. Tickets are $10. Make your reservations NOW at Jimmy Maks. Tables are already being reserved!
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