JodieBowie: How I Got Into Being A Promoter (My Journey) – Part 1

I may have break this up into different blogs otherwise people will be reading it FOREVER!! Believe it or not, my journey to where I am now in my music career wasn’t a straight line at all… to be honest, this wasn’t even the route I was planning on going down.

All The Best Decisions Happen By Accident

JodieBowie circa 2015

I think this is a good place to start.
It got to that time in school when you’ve either almost completed Sixth Form or College and you have to start considering what your next step is… further education, like University, perhaps an Apprenticeship, or are you going to find a job?

Well, I already did an extra year of Sixth Form because they just couldn’t get me to leave! So I stayed until Year 13, I think I was 19. I took Photography, Media and English Language as my A Levels.

Music was always something that fired up my soul more than anything else. It was all I thought about, all I was interested in and all I could really write about! For my last Photography Coursework my work was based purely on how to photograph bands. My media exam piece was based on The Rolling Stones. If I could include bands and music in my education… then I would!
My Tutor Mr. Mabert would actually set me extra work to do outside of school; he knew how passionate I was about rock music. I can remember walking down the corridor one morning wearing a retro crop top, paisley flares, red lipstick and Doc Martens and Mr. Mabert said “Jodie, what year is this?” and I said “1975 sir“. He knew I was good at writing, and he would encourage me to write about my favourite musicians etc and would read and give feedback on what I had written.

My winning billboard – 2014

To be fair, at this point I should probably add that I was doing pretty good at photography and actually won a world wide competition judged by renowned photographer Rankin, with a reconstructive photograph of myself as Mick Jagger from a photo that David Bailey took back in the 60’s.
I was also pretty well known on the Tribute Band scene because I absolutely loved David Bowie & The Rolling Stones so would be out regularly watching tributes to those artists and meeting people through those sort of avenues. I mean I had bright purple hair and wore a feather boa… I wasn’t exactly hard to miss.

This can probably lead on to how I got my name actually – JodieBowie.
At the age of 15 I discovered a man named David Bowie; and I thought he was Gods gift on earth! There was a boy in my year… I can’t remember his name, but I think it was Jacob? and for some reason I thought he looked exactly like David Bowie from Labyrinth (even though he had short black hair! But they did have the same teeth to be fair). Me and my friends would use the code name “Bowie” to talk about him. Of course this ‘Bowie’ never looked at me twice, let alone knew my name! I was a flat chested, goofy, boyish, awkward girl with a hair cut like Brett Anderson from Suede – not exactly what boys of 15 find ‘attractive’ aha. ANYWAY, because of my Bowie obsession a lot of my teachers started calling me JodieBowie and this followed me into Sixth Form.
Mr. Mabert, Mr. Presnell and Ms. Green were all teachers who’d call me Miss. Bowie.
So when it came to starting up my blog, I decided to go with “JodieBowie” and from then on it’s kind of stuck. I decided to use it also as my promoter name because so many people knew me as that. I’m sure I’ll get sued one day for copyright!

Me with Bobby T of TooRex at my first ‘job’ at the Memorial Centre

SO, I’m at Sixth Form at that annoying cross roads in life where you have to decide which way you’re going to do. At this point they’d already done me a favour letting me stay an extra year, so by this time they were desperate for me to spread my wings. I decided to just go along with what everyone else wanted me to do and what everyone else was doing. I’ll apply for University.
I thought seeing as I love music and writing… the obvious course to follow would be Music Journalism.

In order to get some practice within the industry I needed to actually try doing some journalistic things.
I saw my local centre – New Milton Memorial Centre – was doing a lot of Tribute Nights, so I popped in one afternoon and asked if they’d like someone to write press releases for the local paper to help promote the shows.
This decision literally changed my life.

They said YES, and the next thing I knew I was working with bands, learning about what actually goes on behind the scenes and doing all the writing I was supposed to be doing. A few months later, one afternoon they called me in for a meeting because they wondered if I had any ideas on how to get younger people in; and that’s when I thought “what about local band nights?“. I saw that Mr. Kyps in Bournemouth (at the time) had a few band nights which featured all the best of Bournemouth’s local music scene, so I thought why not just bring that line-up down my way and maybe add some other bands that I knew personally from other areas like Southampton.
I was basically just left to make this idea a reality, and I DID.

My first ever line-up!

This was when “ROCK NIGHTS” were born. They were originally called ‘Heavy Rock Nights’ but we decided to rebrand just in case the ‘heavy’ put people off.
My very first line up took place Friday 13th February 2015. At this point in time I knew of Western Sand as Tyler Hains and Jimmy Bradshaw were actually my guitar tutors from when I was about 14 years old, so I knew they’d make an excellent headline band. I was familiar with The Smokin’ Prophets from their Hollywood Trash days where I saw them support Alan Merrill at the old Talking Heads in Southampton, and they were up for jumping on my show. I heard that Saints of Sin were pretty big around Bournemouth at the time as well and had seen them on many line-ups with both bands, so I got in touch with those guys and that was it… that was my first line-up!

Honestly, compared to what I do now, I had no idea what I was doing. I somehow winged it, into getting the bands involved and probably got lucky through them just knowing me anyway, then it was the case of actually making sure people knew about it! I was still at Sixth Form at this time, so I would go out every Friday during my break and lunch and hand out flyers around my town, stick them everywhere I can. I’d spam all the Facebay groups in my area too in the hope someone would see it and share it. I learnt how to use the ticketing service EventBrite and that made life a whole lot easier.

I can’t remember if the night was particularly financially successful (at this point, I didn’t do any of the ‘money’ part of bookings, nor did I make anything from it), but there was people there and everyone was having a fantastic show and loved all the bands! So with that being said, it was time for round 2!
Originally I kept the same line-up, but Western Sand couldn’t make the second show which meant I had to do some researching a find another band!
This is when I came across a band called ‘Pirates of Panama’ who seemed to be doing not too badly in Bournemouth and when I listened to their music, I liked it. This was another unforeseen moment that would change my life again.

My second line-up consisted of headliners Saints of Sin (and these were the first of many many shows together) and support acts Pirates of Panama and The Smokin’ Prophets. The show took place on Friday 31st July and needed some proper pushing, and the show almost got pulled! But somehow we made it work within the space of 3 days with some proper hard work and it went down an actual storm. The connection I had formed with the bands were unbreakable, people were beginning to recognise me a little bit, I was getting spoken to differently, I was behaving differently, my music taste had changed, I wasn’t listening to 70’s bands, it was all about the 80’s. I was having the time of my life, 19 years old and living the life you dream of when you’re watching Rock of Ages on TV.
This was the moment that I realised I wanted to be doing this forever.

Going to University to study journalism seemed like a lifetime ago, and was no longer an ambition of mine. I wanted to give my entire life, and my whole self to bands and doing and being what they needed me to be and do.
That hasn’t changed since that day.
I began really looking into bands in the area, adding members of bands on Facebook and making that contact. It didn’t take long before I was getting invited to gigs, being put on guestlists (which I still don’t like – I will always pay for a ticket, sometimes even to my own shows!), and bands were introducing themselves to me. I was having a great time going to gigs, mainly Saints of Sin gigs, meeting fans, living my life, discovering new music, figuring out how the industry works and just getting a taste for how many bands are actually out there!

I did a further 2 Rock Nights in 2016 which included 4 bands on the line-up. I worked with Saints of Sin, The Brash Bullets, Lip Service, Pirates of Panama, Daisy Chains, The Smokin’ Prophets, Our Propaganda and Freeway Mad.
Some members of said bands are now members of South of Salem, Crooked Shapes and The Treatment. Both gigs were fantastic line-ups and did fairly well to be honest, especially for the size of the venue I was working with, but the people who ran the Centre weren’t really up for following my dreams of bringing rock ‘n’ roll to a sleepy town of pensioners…

A little glimpse of what is coming in PART 2!

So, that’s where the rock ‘n’ roll dream took a break for a while. I grew tired of not being heard or encouraged and decided that it was better to be at gigs than it was to put on gigs. Everyone around me was convinced that music just wasn’t a ‘thing’ anymore, and no matter how hard I tried to prove them wrong, they just weren’t interested in helping me get to the next level, so I guess I got tired of my flame being blown out and took a step back.

BUT… that would soon change!
And you will hear about what happened next in PART 2!! ❤

I hope this wasn’t too long winded, but there’s so much life to pack into something like a blog! I might as well write a book or a movie haha.
Anyway, I hope you guys enjoyed! Feel free to ask questions… do you thang! 😀

Feel free to follow me on social media:
INSTAGRAM: JodieBowie
INSTAGRAM: Nozfest
FACEBOOK: JodieBowie
FACEBOOK: Nozfest
FB GROUP: Nozfest
WEBSITE: www.nozfest.org
YOUTUBE: JodieBowie

Seeya soon!

Jodie x ❤ x

JodieBowie : NOZFEST!!!

My festival has officially been announced… got to do a blog on it!! This will include important details and more. I really cannot contain my excitement for this festival, and my nerves are also kicking in… man it’s all getting so real! I never thought I’d actually be able to pull off this dream of mine. Thank you all so much for your support! 

LINE-UP: In no particular order

27 Days
27 Days are a classic/glam rock band based in the South of England. They play awesome covers as well as original material. These young lads really are talented, and deserve to be heard. So it’s my absolute pleasure to have them play NozFest so you guys can hear and see their talent too. They are not to be missed!
Tell The Devil

Beth Blade & The Beautiful Disasters
Beth and co are a hard rock band based in Cardiff, Wales. Having recently played shows such as Hard Rock Hell, Monstersfest, Amplified and even The Kiss Kruise, these guys are ones to keep a real close eye on! I’m so excited to have them on the line-up, I’m sure you guys will love them… if you want to check them out before NozFest, they are playing my Rock Night at the Heartbreakers in Southampton on the 29th March. Come on down and see the excitement for yourselves!
Beautiful Disease

The Outlaw Orchestra
The Orchestra are a Southern Rock four piece based in Southampton. These guys were highly requested in the poll I put up – these are a voted for band, and they for sure deserve a spot on NozFest. The band have also played festivals such as Love Rocks, Hard Rock Hell, Rock & Blues Custom Show and Planet Rockstock, and have also supported the Kris Barras Band. These guys will for sure get you up and rocking and feeling giddy!
See You In Hell

Stop, Stop!
Of course these lads are a personal favourite! They are a huge part of my life, so they just have to be a part of the first ever NozFest. Stop, Stop! are a glam metal band originally from Barcelona, Spain, but have been touring vigorously all over the UK for the last 5 years. I’m sure you guys will be just has fascinated and love them as much as I do ❤
Toilet Party

Marco Mendoza
This is an absolute delight and pleasure to announce!! To have someone like Marco believe in me and trust me is one hell of an achievement for me. I got a message from the man himself asking if there was any slots left, luckily there was one still going spare…. so I just had to give it to him… I’d be daft not to. If you haven’t already seen this legend live, make sure you grab yourself a ticket as he really isn’t one to be missed!!
Viva La Rock

Saints of Sin
Of course local legends Saints of Sin had to be on the line-up! How could I disappoint 😉 Another highly requested act, and I’m thrilled to have them play. Saints of Sin have played many of my Rock Nights and are always a hit, so you’re not gonna want to miss their performance for sure!
21 Shots

Those Damn Crows
Another awesome band from Wales. Those Damn Crows are a hard-hitting five piece rock band that are causing a stir! These guys have been featured in Classic Rock Magazine and have had their latest album reach No.5 in Rock Charts!! You guys asked…. so I got them and I really cannot wait to see them live for myself. They are freakin’ awesome! These guys are one of the most exciting bands playing NozFest.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Ain’t Dead

Bigfoot
These guys are a personal fave, as well as a band that was highly requested. Bigfoot are a hard rock band from Wigan. Their self titled debut album in 2017 charted in the UK’s Top 40 Rock Albums. I’m very happy to have Bigfoot play my festival, I’ve been wanting to book these guys for a while, so this is an awesome achievement for me, and for those who haven’t heard them I’m sure you’ll be impressed.
Run.

Massive Wagons
The HEADLINERS!! The Wagons themselves!! Honestly, I’m so excited about this, I almost peed when they confirmed! If you’ve kept up with my blogs, you will have noticed Massive Wagons are one of my favourite bands, so to have them play my first ever festival and to be headlining it is just incredible and completed the vision I had. You guys also voted for these guys in bulk!!!
Under No Illusions

IMPORTANT INFO:
Date : Saturday 10th August 2019
Venue : The 1865, Southampton, S014 3AR.
Tickets : £20 advance, £25 on door.
All ages welcome – under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
Public Transport : Southampton Central (train station), Bus : Central Station – Holyrood Church (U1C)
Taxi’s : Radio Taxis, West Quay Cars, Aero Taxis Southampton Ltd.
Hotels : Room2 Southampton, Cargo Southampton, The Star Hotel, Southampton Central Travelodge are close by, but feel free to search around for a hotel suitable for you.
Food : The Terrace Sandwich Bar, Red Lion pub, Everest Cuisine, Bayleaf Kitchen, Liberty’s Sports Bar.

If you would like to be given an information package, please head over to the NozFest Website and sign up to receive more details.

THANK YOU’S: 
These guys deserve a massive thank you, firstly for keeping this as much as a secret as I have, but also for supporting me and my dream and helping achieve it.
Design and Artwork : Vincent Sturgess
Venue : Guy & Richard
Advice/Help/Support : Mark Christansen
Festival Hosts : Si Genaro and David Chinery
Official Photographers : Lynn Burt, Damian Godley, Andrew Hayes & Billy Browne.
Pals : Holly, Ema, Jordan, Luke, Jayke, Vi, Liz, Tyler + anyone I may have forgot.
My Parents for encouraging me and supporting me on this journey.

STORY:
It’s been my dream/ambition since I was very small to run my own festival, in May 2018 I decided it’s time to stop dreaming and make it happen. With a lot of forward planning, support and vision I’ve been able to go out there and put together something I thought would be impossible for someone of may age.
It’s taught me that you really do have to work hard for your dreams, but if you believe in yourself you will get there – no matter who or what stands in your way.

I guess you’re also wondering why I chose “NOZFEST” as the name? Well, quite a few people wanted me to call it “JodieFest” which… I just didn’t like. I could’ve called it “RockFest” to fit in with my Rock Nights.. but I felt that was too plain, boring and standard. Then I remembered, my nickname is “Noz” as my Dad could see up my nose when I was born and has pretty much called me that ever since. I think NozFest has quite a good ring to it as well.

The great thing about this festival is that I managed to include all the bands that you guys requested, and also some of my personal favourites!!
This isn’t just for me, this is festival is for YOU and it’s for the bands – it’s our time to join together and have a bloody good time, and share our love of music. For anyone who’s ever felt like a black sheep… NozFest is for you as well! ❤
I wanted to include local bands, bands from ‘a far’ and have a pretty epic headliner – and I think I’ve managed to have a pretty good mixture.

VOLUNTEERS & HELP:
I am looking and do need commited volunteers to help out with NozFest on the stage. I will need people on the door, wristbands, backstage, etc etc. Some experience with festivals and bands would be useful – but as long as you are reliable, work well as part of a team and don’t mind me working with you, then feel free to join the NozFest team!
If you are interested in Volunteering, please drop me a message via the NozFest website or alternately email me at : nozfest@yahoo.com

LINKS:
All important links shall be listed below!
Instagram – JodieBowie
Facebook – JodieBowie
Website – NozFest
Tickets – Eventbrite
Facebook – NozFest

This is literally the basic information, so I hope you’ve enjoyed it or discovered something new etc. Please please don’t forget to give the NozFest Page a like and a share, invite your friends, share the poster… get the word out there! We can do this! I believe in us!

Lots of love

Jodie x ❤ x

Top 5 Songs of September

Sorry I didn’t post my Top 5 of August in blog form, but they are on my FB page if you’re still interested in what they were & they are also included on my Spotify playlist 🙂
Anyway… where the heck has this year gone? It’s October already!! Let’s get crackin’!

Remember there is a YouTube playlist which includes all these wonderful songs from each month, and also a Spotify playlist which you can find via searching for ‘jodieharris15‘.

CHINA PLATES – MASSIVE WAGONS
“I don’t wanna be your friend anymore, it’s only Facebook official, nothing personal…”

I loveeee this song, mainly because it is so modern day with the lyrics! I love it when songs are about online lives because it’s such a huge part of our lives now. This song is so true, and I am living for it!! Gotta love me some Massive Wagons. I’ve mentioned these guys in so many of my Top 5 blogs, but I just keep discovering more and more stuff – if you haven’t… please check them out, and have a look at their new album “Lord Nelson”. FAB! ❤

I DON’T OWE NOBODY NOTHING – THE KRIS BARRAS BAND 
“Cos I’m living life for something, something that you’re not…” 

Wow. I saw Kris live in Southampton, and thought he was absolutely phenomenal! This man has an incredible voice, pure raw talent, a heart full of passion and his guitar faces are off the scale of epic! CHECK HIM OUT if you haven’t already… and get to a live show!! I love this tune so damn much, I feel like it’s definitely another one of my theme tunes for sure!! ❤

TEAR IT APART – PIRATES OF PANAMA
“Trying to shake the boss man off my back…” 

Oh.My.God.
Lads…… forgive me for saying this but…. that is the best music video and best audio you have put out! I was pleasantly surprised. Wow. If you guys didn’t know, the Pirate lads actually played my 21st birthday, so they of course hold a special little place in my heart. I am so happy for them that they are achieving their dreams and goals, and I look forward to see what their futures hold. Musically, if you’re a big L.A Rock fan….. go check these boys out! They’re definitely upped their game! Keep up with that sound boys ❤

JUST LIKE TIGER WOODS – STEEL PANTHER
“Get a platinum card it’ll be good…” 

I recently found myself reaching out for the good old Steel Panther again! This is just a song that generally calms me down, and gives me a “things will be okay” moment. Especially if I am going through family problems…. Steel Panther are a band I gravitate to big time during those times. I guess it’s part of the whole “rebelling” thing, but they give me time to feel like I belong somewhere…. because sadly around family, I always feel like I’m not meant to be there.

21 SHOTS – SAINTS OF SIN
“I took 21 shots for you…”

Well how could I not include this beauty! If you haven’t already seen, I was indeed in the music video – it was a great day and a great experience. Highly recommend checking out the music video, a lot of effort and planning went into it and it’s really payed off. Saints of Sin at their finest! I’m sure they’ve got a lot more tricks up their sleeve, so make sure you do check ’em out 😀

 

Hope you all enjoyed this blog, sorry I’ve not been as active lately – but hopefully you’ve discovered some new awesome tunes in this blog!!

Don’t forget to check me out on social media – don’t be afraid to reach out to me ❤
INSTAGRAM – JodieBowie
FACEBOOK – JodieBowie

Love you long time !!

Jodie x ❤ x

JodieBowie : My First Rock Night!

Come on, I’ve totally got to share with you how my first ever JodieBowie Rock Night went! Are you excited?!! 

So, I’ve been putting on ‘Rock Nights’ in New Milton for the last 4 years? This year, I decided I wanted to do my own, without any attachment to a ‘company’. I wanted to hire a venue, book the bands I wanted… and see what happens.

I approached the Talking Heads in Southampton back in February with an idea, and they were more than happy for my idea to be a reality.
Here we are! My first Rock Night under “JodieBowie”, featuring Saints of Sin, Our Propaganda and The Wilderpeople ❤

I do indeed love The Wilderpeople, if you read my blogs you may have seen me mention them a few times. They’re a bit different, quirky – in my opinion, but definitely worth checking out.

Can’t really fault Our Propaganda in all honesty – they are just absolutely on top of their game. Again I missed parts of their set as I was busy fluttering around, but they performed new songs which seemed to be well received, and finished with “Hey Brother” which is a fave of mine, and they absolutely blitzed it! I’m so proud of those guys and everything they do.

Saints of Sin + Crowd

I didn’t get to see Saints of Sin’s set as I was busy chatting away outside, it’s amazing what you find out when you ask around! Also really lovely to hear kind words of support and advice from the bands I was talking to. Means a lot and it’s very much appreciated. I’m also glad some of my advice/personal comments were also appreciated.

The atmosphere was totally amazing! Everyone seemed very happy and very excited and loved each and every band – always a great sign!

  

Also have to say a massive thank you to Holly for helping me out on the door and being generally amazing, positive and supportive – I cannot thank you enough ❤
To sum it all up… it was absolutely unbelievable – completely out the realms of the expectations!

I did get emotional at the end, happy tears were very much flowing! Just cannot believe the crowd, the atmosphere, how many people were encouraging me and knew me, the bands were incredible…. just couldn’t get any more perfect. Here’s to many more!!!

 

This is something that I definitely want to keep doing in the future, and I’m very slowly but surely getting noticed. My next JodieBowie Rock Nights are as follows :
– 2nd November @ The Stage Door – TBA
– 29th March @ The Heartbreakers – TBA
P.S there’s talks of me putting on some shows in Wales so make sure you do stay updated with what I am doing & don’t miss out!! 

Follow me on social media, interact with me, share your photo’s and recommendations with me. I can’t keep doing what I do without your help & support. Love you!
INSTAGRAM – JodieBowie
FACEBOOK – JodieBowie
SNAPCHAT – Jodie Bowie

See you soon!

Jodie x ❤ x

Band Chat : An Interview with Sophie Burrell

Another awesome “Band Chat” blog I have lined up for you. This time it is with the epic shredding machine of Saints of Sin, Sophie Burrell!! 

Saints of Sin are a Hard Rock/Glam/Sleaze band based in Bournemouth, Dorset. The band has been seen on many festivals including The Great Dorset Steam Fair, HRH AOR, HRH Sleaze, Milford Music Festival, Christchurch Music Festival and many more. Saints of Sin are constantly gigging around the UK, showing no signs of stopping – it’s easy to get your fix of this band as they are gigging pretty much every weekend! The band have a very close fan base who often travel to their shows, no matter where or how far away, making their live shows feel warm and welcoming and a whole lot more fun! Saints of Sin are the band you want to see when you’re in need of a pick me up, or in need to get wasted and party hard!!

Saints of Sin have actually been part of a few Rock Nights of mine, and are actually headlining my first ever “Jodie Bowie” Rock Night at The Talking Heads on the 10th August. Sophie and I attended ‘Rockschool’ together and became great friends. I’ve known her since she was a mere 11 years old; and I can honestly and truthfully say Sophie has worked super hard on her talent and deserves all the success that comes her way.

What bands/musicians got you into music?
The thing that actually got me into music was the movie “The School Of Rock”. I watched it when I was a really young kid and from that day onwards I wanted to play! However, the first musicians and bands that I started listening to were :: Avril Lavigne, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Guns N Roses, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath.

How often do you practice?
I practice every day, even if just for a little bit…it’s good to keep the ole’ muscle memory on its toes. Though in an ideal world I’d like to practice for at least 2 hours every day. This would include a full warm up, using many different exercises focusing on a variety of techniques, then I’d go onto learning new songs/riffs/licks/techniques.

What is your favourite song to perform live with Saint of Sin?
That’s a tough question, it used to be After Dark and Turn It Up (before we introduced Welcome To The Circus and Rocket). Though, now we’ve got the two “newies”, I’d say I like to play WTTC and Rocket most!

Where do you see yourself heading musically? What are your plans for the future?I’d love for Saints Of Sin to keep working up the musical ladder, landing some more deals and bigger gigs/festivals, releasing more albums! I’m really happy being a part of SOS, so I’d love for that to be a big part of my future. Though, my personal plans are to keep working at the social media thing, churning out as many videos as I can to grow that following! To keep me going in the meanwhile is teaching guitar alongside all of this, to bring me an income! I’m looking to expand that alone too.

Do you find it difficult being the only female in the band?
Hahahaha. Sometimes it can be a challenge, although the boys are family to me, they’re like annoying big brothers. So I always feel pretty at ease with them. They understand the hair and makeup struggle too 😉 maybe just on a smaller level.

How did you find recording the “Welcome to the Circus” album? And which was your favourite track to record?
The recording process was great fun! It was definitely quite a large step for me as a member of the band, because I’d only been a part of the band (as a trial member) for a couple of months before we got in the studio. So I had to make sure I was as tight as could be with the tracks and parts. We did it in chunks, so we went into the studio for 3 full days, then came back here and there to track harmonies and some little bits and bobs…before piecing the whole album together. I was actually ill for the initial 3 days in the studio, so it was pretty exhausting for all of us, but all worth it!

My favourite track to record was probably a mix between Welcome To The Circus, Devil You Need, and Going Down. Going Down was so much fun musically, Devil You Need was a blast for vocal harmonies, and Welcome To The Circus just had us all feeling really excited as it was the title track!

Is there any particular song that you think Saints of Sin should cover?
I’ve had some ideas that I’d love to try, like Toto – Africa would be pretty fun I think. Also Bohemian Rhapsody or something ridiculous with loads of vocal harmonies. I’ve also had thoughts of us doing Hotel California?! Just for fun really!

A lot of people compare Saints of Sin to Steel Panther. What is your opinion on that?
We get this comparison quite often, which is actually a little surprising to me because if you compare both bands together…there’s similarities, but we’re quite far apart! We love the Steel Panther guys, and we love their music, it’s great. Though we don’t really take influence from them with our music. We have similar touches, like the vocal harmonies, and the guitar harmonies/crazy solos. Though our content is very different.

What has been your favourite show to play to date?
Ooooh that’s a tough question, it’s probably a battle between three shows. 1. Great Dorset Steam Fair, 2. Our headline show at Mr Kyps, 3. Hard Rock Hell AOR!

HRH was my first “BIG” show with SOS, there were loads of people there, it was far away from home, and it felt like a true metal festival, which was awesome…great vibes.

Mr Kyps was off the hook, I spent the whole time just soaking up the atmosphere because I was just stunned by how many people came to see us. It was a very emotional show because Mr Kyps is a venue close to our hearts and we’re gutted that it couldn’t continue in that location. My first ever show with SOS was at Mr Kyps.

Great Dorset Steam fair was the show with the biggest crowd I’ve ever played to, and they were off the hook. I remember looking up during 21 Shots and feeling so, humbled and happy. I saw so many people mouthing the words, it was crazy. We played a pretty long set, and as the night went on more and more people joined the crowd! It was a gorgeous summer evening, and everything just felt right!

Do you have any advice for young female guitarists who are also looking to go in the same direction as yourself?
I’d say never give up, love every second of what you do and practice practice practice! Don’t let anybody tell you what you can and cannot do.

Do you take any influence from anyone with regards to your image, or do you feel that you have your own style that you modify?
I definitely used to! I WAS Avil Lavigne II as far as I was concerned when I was younger hahaha. However nowadays, not really! I feel like I’ve definitely found my feet in developing my own “style” and “character” since I’ve been a part of SOS, and as time has worn on with them.

What are some of your personal greatest achievements?
The ones I’m most proud of are getting endorsed by the companies I’m currently with! I’m currently endorsed by Ormsby Guitars, EVH Gear and Bare Knuckle Pickups. This has all been quite recent too! All last year. Had someone told me at the beginning of last year that I’d be endorsed by three awesome companies by the end of the year I would’ve chuckled and said “no way”!

You’re quite well known on the Instagram community. Do you have any tips for other musicians also looking to get noticed on social media?
I’d say, follow the wave, but be unique whilst doing it! Annoyingly so, Instagram has made it pretty impossible to get anywhere within the community, same with Facebook. Something ridiculous like only 10% of your following actually see your content pop up in their feed…which is terrible. You have to follow the trend in order for your content to get seen really, i.e. posting on your story, directing the crowd to your new posts etc.

There are so many musicians out there on the Instagram community, think about how you could be different…rather than just another musician!

Is there a particular venue you have fallen in love with whilst being on the road?There’s a few venues that I’m really fond of, a lot of them are actually quite close to home! I definitely love playing open air festivals as it’s a completely different vibe. However, the venues that I have enjoyed playing most so far are Mr Kyps, The Joiners, The Talking Heads and The Dublin Castle. We have a few more shows at cool venues coming up which I’m excited to play!

Have you had any awkward/embarrassing moments on stage or off stage?
I’ve definitely had quite a few awkward moments on and off stage. There’s footage of me falling over on stage at HRH Sleaze last year. There was no way in hell I was letting my guitar hit the deck though! There’s footage of me and Sparky colliding with each other at GDSF.
Tons of crazy things happen on stage!

As for off stage, nothing overly awkward, other than getting creeped on by people old enough to be your dad hahahaha! I’m quite a shy person to be honest with you, especially off stage, so I don’t deal with the chatty human stuff as well as everyone else.
The boys like to play this “hilarious” game of hot potato, so if there’s someone a little…odd, they’ll try and move them onto me so I get cornered and have to talk to them for the remainder of the evening.

What is your favourite endorsement?
I’d say my favourite endorsement is between Ormsby and EVH. EVH gear have changed my life and my sound, I’m ridiculously happy with my amp!
However, Ormsby were my first endorsement, and quite a large one at that as I got given a guitar model! They’re very unique looking guitars as they’re “multiscale”/”fanned fret”, which to a normal person means “wonky frets” hahaha. They deal really well with low tunings and metal music, which is great fun as I experiment a lot with that, especially in my own time.

I love all my endorsements, and I’m incredibly grateful for their support! They’ve helped me so much.

Name 3 bands you think others should check out : 
Inglorious, The Wilderpeople and Our Propaganda.

Make sure you go and check out myself, Sophie & Saints of Sin on social media – links will be given below:
INSTAGRAM – JodieBowie
INSTAGRAM – Sophie Burrell
INSTAGRAM – Saints of Sin
FACEBOOK – JodieBowie
FACEBOOK – Sophie Burrell Music
FACEBOOK – Saints of Sin

Also click here to see my previous “Band Chat” blog featuring Tommy Rockit from Stone Trigger!

I hope you all enjoyed this, Sophie and the guys are definitely a group to keep your eyes and ears on.

Rock out mofos!!

Jodie x ❤ x

Info on my 21st Birthday!

If you are attending my 21st Birthday on the 24th March 2017 – you NEED to read this. 

First of all, I am making a very BIG deal out of this, I’ve been dreaming of a ‘princess day’ since I was a little girl – then as I grew up, I always knew I wanted my very own rock concert for a birthday…………….. here it is!

This was a first draft. Don’t worry the date still is FRIDAY 24TH MARCH 2017

THE BANDS:
The two bands who are playing were chosen for specific reasons & believe me, the whole night just wouldn’t be right without either. So I’m sorry if your band isn’t in the lineup, but I asked both bands back in May and they said yes straight away.
Saints of Sin – The support band. I asked the Sinners because they were a band that played my very first Rock Night that I put on & they have helped me out so much with my events, even ones they haven’t been involved in. They’ve been out flyering round towns with me, and when things have looked really bad such as having no sound, they’ve pulled out all the stops to make sure Rock Nights can still go ahead. I’ve helped them out by featuring in some of their videos, and they’ve helped me with promotion. Not a lot of other bands have really helped quite as much as them. It’s not favoritism and I know some bands are instantly going to hate on me and purposely not come to my bday cos the Sinners are playing BUT… I wouldn’t have achieved as much as I have without them so……………. 😛
Stop, Stop – The headline band. Oh well, what can I say? They’re tattooed on my body! They are my favourite band next to the Stones. Not after… but side by side. They are equal to The Rolling Stones in my book. Mr.Jacob is a great friend of mine, I adore him to bits… he’s become a bit of a hero/idol of mine as well as a friend I can actually talk to… about… anything really. They are very different to my usual genre of music, and you may find them a little over-powering or odd when you first see them… but their show is fantastic and you will mostly end up hooked like I was. They are absolutely lovely guys, and they are just a trio of Spanish dudes rocking out in a magnificent way. I support them whole heartedly, and I feel so lucky to have them play my 21st.
YES, this band very much was favoritism 😉

DRESS CODE:
The Theme of the evening is Hollywood – Rock of Ages. DUH with Saints of Sin playing, it would be odd not to have that theme run through-out.
I will be dressed up like a bloody princess I wont lie.
Ladies… please don’t turn up in a red dress please. The colour is reserved for me. Co-operation is much appreciated 😉
You can either dress up suited & booted, i.e shirts, ties and jackets.. OR you can get your best Steel Panther look on and dress as 80’s AOR as you want. The option is yours.

The unfinished dress I will be wearing.

FOOD & DRINK:
There will be a fully stocked bar! Soft and alcoholic, bottled, canned and on tap.
However, you will have to pay for your own drinks. As I am getting to use the facilities for free, as a gift from the management committee for all my hard work – it only seems far they make some sort of profit from my birthday, and that is by having the bar open… we can’t afford to make it an open bar due to band costs. BUT our bar prices is the lowest in the area.
As for food, we are supply a table with snacks and of course the Birthday cake! I’m putting out picky things really, cos of alcohol and live music it just makes sense to have like crisps, sausage rolls, cookies, etc etc. However, if you are unbearably hungry, there is a 2 min walk to a kebab shop, or a 5min walk to a fish and chippy, pizza place and a Chinese. So… after the party feel free to explore or get proper food during the show.

TRAVELLING:
I know some people are travelling from the likes of Birmingham and London, which is a considerably long journey SO, I have advised people who wish to book into a hotel, that they opt for The Premier Inn in Highcliffe. Highcliffe is a lot closer to New Milton than anywhere else and it has a train station (Hinton Admiral). If you book this early in advance you will of course get cheaper deals. I have looked into B&B’s in New Milton, but they all seem to be fully booked on that date so………
If you kind of know someone going, make contact with them, they might be able to help out.
I know some people may be even sleeping in their cars… that’s people locally AND those travelling. I will have contact numbers for taxi’s back to and from hotels also. I think our trains stop running at Midnight and they become hourly after 9pm.
The Premier Inn in Highcliffe is a good shout though as I may be able to sort out lifts as I have friends who’ll be driving through that way anyway. Up to you, but it really is for you guys to try and arrange, I can only advise.

SET UP & CLEAN UP:
For this I would really appreciate some volunteers.
For the set up, don’t worry I can do that on my own & with the help of the bands.
The clean up, I will need say about 4 or 5 volunteers who don’t mind just clearing up rubbish, helping to collect glasses, maybe help out with some washing up and taking down the decorations. The more of us there is, the less time it will take. So anyone willing to stay a little longer and help out would be much appreciated…let me know who you are!

Size of the hall from the stage POV.

RSVP:
It’s important you do tell me you are coming as I think the venue is arranging Security. I’m not entirely sure as yet, but I’m not keen on the idea of random drunks coming in, and I have told the bands it is invitation only with some minor exceptions. So if you’re not on my RSVP list, you might not even get in. Also, for obvious reasons such as planning, space organisation and catering… it’s just nice/polite to know numbers before the actual night.

TIMINGS:
I am yet to finalise timings as I want the bands there at specific times etc – sound check and me being selfish for a few hours 😉
BUT all I know for the moment is you should aim to arrive for 7pm as the first band will be on at 8:30pm. So you eager beavers… 7PM!!!

SOCIALISING:
Please don’t be offended BUT if I don’t talk to you much, it probably is because I am very busy having a birthday. Please please please don’t follow me around like a puppy dog, try to keep and eye on me, or stop me being inappropriate. DO however socialise with each other! There are some very awesome people coming ; I promise I haven’t invited any weirdo’s 😉

I think that is all really. If you want to ask anymore questions please go ahead!!!
Would just like to say a massive thank you to the people who have already RSVP’d and have told me how excited they are, and that they are already planning their own outfits etc – it means so much to me to hear people get excited for my birthday.
Thank you so much to STOP STOP and Saints of Sin for agreeing to be a part of my special day – big hugs to you all!!!
This is a really special day for me, and I am making a big deal out of it, because all of my life I have believed I am unloved and unwanted, and my last two big birthdays 16th and 18th I didn’t do anything for… I’ve been waiting for my 21st and I am so glad I did because I have met so many new amazing people and friends who do love and want me around and I know exactly what it is I actually want to do for my birthday now. I’ve always dreamt of a big 21st – a day for me ❤

On a last note, to anyone who is considering not coming because they don’t like the genre of music the bands play – please don’t refer to me as a friend of yours. The evening is not at all about the bands, and they know that, it is about me… so you should come because you are my friend and want to spend my special day with me … and end up having a bloody good night anyway cos the bands are awesome!! ❤ ❤

Much love ❤

Jodie

My 2016 – With Diary Entries

Oi, Oi!! We’re back at New Year! How fast did 2016 go man?! and how shite was it?! haha. Again, this year I am going to basically write up my 2016 and also include my Diary entries! Seemed to work well last year, so let’s give it a go again. 

My completed New Year’s Resolutions are: …oh, well I didn’t actually complete any at all this year…… moving swiftly on………….

JANUARY: 
Turns out I celebrated New Year with Jack Davies, we drank lot’s of Red Wine and watches the Jools Holland show… my darling Paul Weller was performing, so had to catch that!
Me and Dad did our New Yearly trip to Bournemouth – I go every year at this time, just to get my everyday make up stuff in the sales 😉 Saw a little bit of the lovely Callum Woodford on the Christmas stage. I also took my Dad to Sprinkles, and made him walk there… he nearly died! Haha!
On the 3rd January I wrote that I am fed up of being bored and lonely and said “I want to do everything I possibly can! If I get asked on holiday, I’ll go. If I’m asked on a date I’ll go on it. I need to explore more and become more me!” << I can confirm, I DID do all this, this year 😀
This month was also the start of where I decided I just can’t be friends with certain people, even if I have known them since school. No one needs selfish people in their lives.
I joined the Management Committee at the New Milton Memorial Centre! Woo! They trust me with important stuff!!
This part if rather freaky… 10th Jan “makes you think doesn’t it. When someone like Lemmy dies. Look at what we have lost – this world –  us muso’s – we need people like Lemmy. Gosh it’s just so so sad” —- 11th Jan “I should not have to be writing this at all – it is more than a devastating shock. David Bowie has died at the age of 69 after battling cancer for 18 months”. It upsets me still, even reading that back! I wrote quite a few pages on the legend. I can remember that day like it was yesterday, I spent the whole day crying uncontrollably in sheer disbelief. I have so many memories related to Bowie from singing his songs, singing hero’s with my Dad, a ‘boyfriend’ of mine gave me a cuddle in his car while we watched ‘Dancing in the Street’, my teachers at school; one was a HUGE Bowie fan etc etc… it was like losing a best friend.
The very next day I got the Aladdinsane lightning bolt tattooed on my right rib cage.
Then a few days after that my lovely Sophie came over and we made Bowie biscuits – had to have the bestie over to help with the mourning process.
Then something even worse happened the day after that!! I found out the guy I was whole-heartedly in love with was seeing someone else. I drank a bottle of prosecco and went straight to Sophie’s in a big snotty mess. In the space of 7 days I lost two of the most special people in my life, and I can clearly state that this was the start of my depression and break down.
On a better note, the awesome band Voodoo Vegas invited me to their Mr.Kyps show with The Guns ‘n’ Roses Experience – I got on the guestlist with my Dad! Was well chuffed! I love their music!

FEBRUARY:
I got a job at a cafe in Brockenhurst.
13th February was the night of my 3rd Rock Night!!! I had The Smokin’ Prophets, Daisy Chains, Pirates of Panama and The Black Bullets on the line up. It wasn’t our best evening admittedly, but the bands were spot on, I can’t fault their performances at all. I love putting on my Rock Nights and finding new awesome local bands, it’s exciting and different for the area I live in. Try my best even if sometimes it doesn’t quite work. Mattington came down from Dorchester and brought Luke along, was nice to have some friendly support. Of course Soph was there… she comes to all my Rock Nights!! I try my hardest to make friends with the bands so that they feel as if they are at home. I like to make sure they are okay and relaxed/comfortable and have a really good night. If they don’t I feel kinda bad personally, like it’s my fault. Lot’s of bands that play look for me in the crowd and ask if they can play a few more songs, or they give me shout out etc. It’s really sweet, I like having that sort of bond with bands, I think it makes us a little different and hopefully a more relaxed environment to watch a gig in.
The day after (Valentines Day) I went to see The Bowie Experience at Mr.Kyps with Dad to pay my respects and sort of ‘let go’. Was very emotional!
I went to see the Rocky Horror Show at the Mayflower Southampton with Dad. We went for a Sprinkles before hand, and I had a slight wardrobe malfunction in the toilets – I was dressed as a transvestite you see!!
Now, this is where things start changing! This is an interesting piece of documentation.
27th Feb “went to see Saints of Sin at the Winchester last night with Luke, Val and Hayley. They were supporting a band from Barcelona called ‘Stop! Stop!’. That NIGHT was a turning point in my life… what followed was a meltdown, but significance is the fact… I saw Stop Stop. The only reason I was at that gig, was because I was bored and still not over my crappy ‘boyfriend’. I was changing jobs, struggling with home life, felt I had no friends… I was really struggling with just life, so that spontaneous night out, you’ll see later on in the blog… actually changed my life.

MARCH:
2nd March “I made an emergency doctors appointment last night, as my suicide attempt didn’t work. I got scared. Had a massive meltdown this morning – now I’m on Fluoxetine.” I tried strangling myself. I had my first day at my new job and I HATED IT. I was feeling low enough as it was with all the other crap in my life that had been going on since Nov ’16, then i just had bad news after bad news, then I was treated like shit in this new job and it got too much. The only thing I clearly remember from that day was hearing “join the party, come out of your shell“, and that was what got me through that day… even in the ‘end’. The significance is ^^ they are Stop, Stop lyrics. 4 days later… as if they were trying to tell me something.
10th March “Stop Stop! are also my favourite band! I’m really adoring them right now. I’ve found them on Spotify and have listened to all their songs 🙂 my favourite is ‘With You’. I also got to go back the Memorial Centre and they gave me more work to do… thank god! No more kitchen for me.
Saw Saints of Sin play at the Rydal! My Dad came to this one, and was drunk before hand which was quite a laugh – he didn’t have his grumpy pants on for once.
19th March “today has literally been the best day ever! the frontman of my favourite band ‘Stop Stop!’ added me on Facebook and messaged me! – like oh my days, I must be dreaming! I feel so happy I could burst like a pimple, or take off from the ground and fly! I’m appreciated/valued by someone who is pretty much saving my life everyday! How incredible is that? A piece of my poorly heart has been fixed! ❤ “. Jacob was my idol at this point in time, still is really. He doesn’t know this, but that messaged he sent me… I was literally in tears for the rest of the night, but tears of happiness. I was so so happy!! Was the first bit of happiness I had felt in a long time.
29th March – My fucking 20th Birthday bitches! I went to Southampton with Sophie, and we met up with Jayke, had a mooch around and had a Sprinkles! Nice a chilled out day.

APRIL:
The month of Rock Night 4! – which was also my 20th Bday Party (kinda). We had a hiccup with the sound and lighting – I some how managed to pull it out the bag last min, the last second on the deadline as well! Some help from Josh Rose and others of course.
9th April was the big day and it went “exceptionally well”. Only Sophie, Mattington and Tyler turned up for my bday but the bands and atmosphere made up for it by billions. The audience was a lot bigger… our biggest audience for a rock night so far. My Mum actually came to this night and volunteered to help out on Front of House. Oh the line up was, Lip Service, Our Propaganda, Freeway Mad and Saints of Sin. Freeway Mad were AMAZING!! I wrote down “I got him mango and strawberry tea, cos he looked like that kinda guy”, that guy is the dude that is Jack Denton! I also had a pretty great head-banging session with George Twydell – what a lovely bunch of dudes I got for my birthday, awesome musicians and really genuine people. Really made the night brilliant. Freeway Mad also got me up on stage to sing Happy Birthday at me, and Saints of Sin dedicated ‘Devil you need’ to me. For a rock night, the evening was so relaxed!
Next up was Mattington’s 20th!!! Me and Luke went up to stay with him. Me and Mat didn’t sleep AT ALL due to Luke’s impressing snoring skills, plus we were sleeping the wrong sides of the air bed…. what a night that one was!! I added at the end of that diary entry “super proud of myself – thanks to my gorgeous ‘Stop, Stop!’ X” <<< No idea!! but I think it was cos I got my confidence back…… like I actually left the house and socialised with strangers.
20th April – Met up with Mr.Jayden! Went to get my industrial/scaffold piercing done with Dan. Woo! I got a piercing I’ve wanted for years………… bloody bitch to heal!
29th April, Western Sand were playing at the Rydal. I went with my Dad… wasn’t in the best of moods, but I do like Western Sand so wanted to see them. Then who bloody walks in… oh yes, that crappy ‘boyfriend’!!! I didn’t know whether to hug him or knock him out. He never comes to New Milton, even when asked, let alone on his own accord. Dad sort of gave us space, but kept an eye on me, he tapped me on the shoulder and said “I’m over there if anything goes bad okay?! I’m keeping an eye on him”. Ended up getting a lift home from him (not Dad), where he fell asleep on me -_-

MAY:
5th May “I have some exciting news! I’ve booked my favourite band ‘Stop,Stop!’ and Saints of Sin for my 21st Birthday!! Would make my life having ‘Stop Stop’ play my 21st!!” << lucky girl ain’t I – I am so so so excited for this, and have been planning everything since that day so it’s gonna be big!!
I went out to the beach with the crappy ‘boyfriend’. Was a nice day, so Highcliffe beach seemed app-ted for some reminiscing.
I had a spontaneous weekend on the 15th! Woo! i met up with Mica on the Saturday, we went to Bournemouth, then I headed to Mattington’s in Dorchester for a sleepover before going back home in the morning, then to Christchurch to hang out with the crappy ‘boyfriend’, then back home to hang out with Sophie! WOO!
Later on in May, Mattington visited Boscombe/Bournemouth for the day, where we chilled in a hairdressers and I put Pirates of Panama on the TV.
28th May – ALADDINSANE! Was my first time working with a Tribute Band. Was so much fun, and I finally got to meet Paul Henderson, who I’ve known since I was about 15. They invited me on stage to dance to ‘Rebel Rebel’ at the end.

JUNE:
This month is a big one – so go get a cup of tea and a biscuit!
1st June me and Dad went up to Chelsea to visit the Rolling Stones Exhibitionism at the Saatchi Gallery. WAS INCREDIBLE!! I love the Rolling Stones more than life – they are my life – my life is dedicated to them ❤ to go and see a gallery filled with history, clothes… you name it – I was like a kid in a candy store. Was lovely to go with Dad, we both see the Stones in different ways. I feel I know them personally and know a lot about the production etc, where as Dad is the instrument guy, so we learnt from each other. Was so cool to remix some of their tunes too.
A week later I got to meet up with the crappy ‘boyfriend’ in Bournemouth.
12th June – I had a bit of a relapse with my mental health. “I wanted to die more than anything and I had to fight myself to keep myself alive – that is so fucking exhausting!”. It is really hard work fighting yourself on a life threatening situation… it’s one of the hardest things I have to do.
Stop Stop’s frontman Jacob also lend-ed me the hand of support “then you have another reason to keep going, my sweaty smelly hug after a gig”.
I later in the month got my hair dyed red and black, to kind of match the Stop Stop frontman (Jacob) – I’ve always wanted that, but that was the extra push I needed to go for it. I also decided I wanted to start travelling places… starting small, then building up to big things!
Saints of Sin played an acoustic set as part of Bournemouth’s food festival, I went with Mica!
Oh oh… We left the EU – well done England (I voted remain btw)!!
I got my 4th tattoo!!… because…………………….. 24th June, Stop Stop were back at the Winchester in Bournemouth and I got Jacob to sign the band name on my arm, so I could get it tattooed the next day ❤
That night I somehow managed to get stalked by an American on my way up to meet Sophie in Boscombe, before going to the show – this always happens to me on trains. I was soo fucking nervous to meet Jacob in person – the dude I had been looking up to as an idol of mine through a really difficult part of my life… I was shitting myself I wont lie. I was terrified he wouldn’t like me, or wouldn’t notice/talk to me… and I was just scared; but when he saw me he gave me the biggest hug and kiss ever and I calmed down a bit… whenever he saw me he gave me a hug which was so comforting, and he kept asking if I was okay which was sweet. I also met Mr.Dee Dee at this gig – legend!!! and Jon whom i am now great pals with. Jacob also made me promise that I would stay strong for him — well hopefully I am keeping that promise. Getting home was a bit of a disaster – ended up having to hang out with the band for a few hours afterwards as Val’s car got a puncture – oh this mischief we get up to us girls!! “honestly 3 of the most amazing blokes I have ever met. This could be the start of some awesome experiences” << too damn right Jodie!

JULY:
So, I’ve written for the first of July, Saints of Sin where playing the Christchurch Music Festival. I went with Val and Hayley of course, and she brought her son along, which I have written down as it being his first gig? Pretty awesome if so!
On the 9th July it was the day of the Southampton Tattoo Festival. I went with Dad on the Harley – Saints of Sin, Smokin’ Prophets (Now The Liabilities) and Our Propaganda were playing… so that plus tattoos was a big reason to go. Deffo’s recommend to everyone.. if it’s on next year… frickin’ go!! It’s awesome!!
Few weeks later I got to see the ‘boyfriend’ again, I’ve written that was had a ‘discussion’ which I thought was more of an argument… sounds about right! Apart from that, we had a real great night apparently haha… and we talked about ‘Stop Stop’ a lot.
A few days later, I got to practice some of my journalism skills and ended up getting asked out by a wrestler…………….. I didn’t go for it. I’m more of a rocker than wrestler kinda girl. Sorry fellas.
Oh.. apparently I saw Saints of Sin TWICE in one week! Once at Poole Quay and the other time at the Milford Music Festival. I’ve written “it’s gotten to the point them so much they have become so predictable BUT the atmosphere can really change how much I enjoy the show” << Still true. oh P.S “Me and Mat are planning our Cheltenham trip”.
I went to see my Nan (Gibson) in Didcot and she took us to The Boar’s Head in Ardington? Appt she seemed more accepting of me, but is still disappointed in my career choice. On a better note though I wrote “everything is booked for Cheltenham on the 27th Aug”.
Then I took my little Sophie to see Saints of Sin and Our Propaganda at The Talking Heads (co-incidentally, I think this was where she met her boyfriend… you’re welcome Soph!). Aah yes, that evening I met a ‘Stop Stop’ fan who goes by the name of Little Lainey aka Elaine! and she invited me to her bday on the 9th Dec.
31st July —— one year since I met the prick 😉

AUGUST:
1st Aug – My old primary school buddy David came to visit for the day. It was crappy weather but I took him to a cafe in Barton which was pretty nice. I also booked the legendary Stephen Loader to do the sound for my birthday concert – WOO!!
Ah yes, 2nd Aug, a year since our first date… which led no where haha! I still wanted to meet on the exact date though… you know… cos I’m a girl, and I’m cheesy like that. We went and played ‘rock ‘n’ roll bingo’, we lost both times. Oh I wrote he was actually nice to me – get in there!!!!
It was off the the Rydal to see Saints of Sin with Val and Hayley again. We arrived 2 hours early – FUCK YEA! Oh yea, I ended up having to count sexual positions. That was interesting. The next day, I had a spontaneous sleepover at little Sophie’s house.
On a Tuesday evening… I got absolutely hammered on too much wine at work after our AGM meeting.
On the 23rd I took little Sophie to see The Rocky Horror show at the Pavillion in Bournemouth. She actually really enjoyed it! I thought she would 😉 I slept over, and ended up waking up at 4am as some pillock was shouting “JOHNNY” for an hour down the street -_-
25th I was back seeing the Rocky Horror show with Steve Loader – LEGEND.
Okay now be prepared…. 27th Aug – Me and Mattington travelled to Cheltenham to see my amazing Stop Stop boys. It took us 5 hours, but we were buzzing for it. It’s the best thing I think I have ever done actually?! The boys were on fire, the atmosphere was amazing, just being away from home felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. It was absolutely fantastic! I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.

SEPTEMBER:
2nd Sept and I was off to see Stop Stop again. This time at the Lounge in Holloway, London. I went with the lovely Jon – who got lost a lot trying to pick me up and drop me home. Adds the fun bud! I bought myself some black bungaree’s to look like Jacob… went down pretty well 😉
Me and Mica hanged out on the 13th – I wrote “can feel my depression slowly seeping back in”.
Ah yes, I received the best birthday present in the world. I’m getting the venue for free, for all the hard work I’ve put in 😀
Had a spontaneous trip to Southampton to catch up with Jayke. Was nice to just wonder round and chill really.
I took my Dad to see ‘Havana Moon’ at the ABC in Bournemouth. He gets taken to see much Stone stuff haha. For that concert (Cuba) they had an audience of 1.2 million…. just let you take that one in……………. and breeeeaathheeee…..

OCTOBER: 
1st Oct was Stop Stop’s album launch for their Barceloningham album at the Slade Rooms in Wolverhampton. Was epic! Booked myself a hotel with Little Lainey and her partner Mark; we travelled up to Birmingham with Nina. Met so many awesome people, as well as getting to see lots of people I already knew and were friends with. Such a relaxing atmosphere for the kind of music they play.
When I came back I went for breakfast with Val & then I got a cold 😦 so I was ill for a week or so.
Western Sand played the Rydal, which I dragged my Dad along to.
I went out with the ‘boyfriend’ and we played a pub-quiz, which we absolutely sucked at! I can’t even make it up. Damn, we were bad! But it was pretty funny haha.
The next day I went to see the legendary Arrows frontman Mr.Alan Merrill! I have known Alan since I was around 14 – so a long time! He actually dragged me up on stage to sing ‘I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll’ with him which was absolutely awesome! Thank you so much Alan!
Then two days later I was doing the same with Rollin’ Stoned at Mr.Kyps. I sang ‘Loving Cup’ a personal fave! Oh my god, that was literally my childhood dream, and it came true… Thank you so much Mick Jaguar for asking me up there!
A week later it was little Sophie’s turn to rock Mr.Kyps as she joined Saints of Sin! woo!!
And to finish of the month, Our Propaganda were at the Rydal and Val and Steve came along. Was a real lovely evening as well. The guys did an amazing cover of ‘Gimme Shelter’ and ‘Moonage Daydream’, yes mate!

NOVEMBER: 
I treated myself to a new lipstick… a Jeffree Star lipstick to be exact – this sparked an on growing obsession. Goodbye money.
I dressed up as Jacob from Stop Stop for Halloween, woo baby!
Donald Trump became elected president of the United States of America…………ooookaaaaayyy then…………….
I got a new tattoo – Suede lyrics, down my spine. Inspired by one of their songs.
On the 18th I went up to London with a group of people to help film a video for Saints of Sin. There was lots and lots of jumping involved, and I definitely found new muscles in my legs that I didn’t know existed!
The next day I went to see the Sinners at Kyps again as they were supporting the Four Fighters. Was a pretty great evening. Thanks to the legendary Mr.Loader for the sound, for taking me there & for letting me borrow your coat.

DECEMBER:
I was put in charge of the Christmas decorations at the hall this year! That was quite fun actually, 4 tree’s to decorate…. can’t say I’m as excited to take them down.
I also went with my lovely friend Val to get her first ever tattoo done. Of course the lovely Craig at Black Heart – she already wants more!!
9th Dec was the lovely Little Lainey’s Birthday party in Gosport with two awesome Spanish bands, Jolly Joker & Stop Stop. What a legend Lainey is, how she does it I don’t know, but she is one very epic little lady. Was lovely to catch up with my Stop Stop boys also, even though I was already intoxicated with vodka before I even got there 😉
The day after (10th) I headed to Swindon to see both bands again, with the added bonus of Saints of Sin. I stayed in Salisbury with Sarah and James after. Was great to catch up with the Birmingham mofos. I had quite a bit of an anxiety attack whilst in Swindon, so missed Stop Stop’s set unfortunately.
The 16th was the lovely Natalie’s 30th Bday party. She had Saints of Sin play of course. Was nice to meet new people such as Tara 🙂 I wrote “I love how the sinners know deeply that Stop Stop are my fave band in the world, but they don’t make snide comments about it or put any hate or jealousy towards me for it” << True! Some bands do get really touchy if they see I’m at more of other bands gigs, I mean I don’t DO favouritism… only in the Stop Stop case, and it’s not to see other bands be like “doesn’t matter who she likes…”, it’s really off putting when you feel like you have to choose!
23rd, had a bit of a Dad and daughter day in Southampton, we went to Sprinkles and GBK’s, before seeing Saints of Sin at their Christmas party at the Joiners. Apologies for my very anti-social Dad… he was soo tired!
24th Christmas Eve – Rick Parfitt of Statues Quo sadly passed away. I did cry a little when I heard the news actually. He was the first rockstar I wanted to marry. Also Status Quo were the first band I ever saw live (write that down… might be useful one day 😉 ).
Christmas Day – George Michael of Wham! sadly passed away. Damn 2016. Christmas was actually kinda nice these year, so I can’t complain. Got some Iron Fist boots & Jeffree Star lipsticks from santa.
Boxing day was spent with family in Farnham. Yes, family!! I was re-invited, and I’m actually glad now as I have re-kindled a small portion of my family back, so I’m not so alone anymore. You see, my family don’t really like me, and I was told that I’d find it very tense with some of the girl cousins… I don’t know why?!! They didn’t even bother speaking to me though, so that’s alright. I drank far too much wine and blacked out on the way home, laid on my bed for 4 hours being throwing up….. FUUUCK YEA! The family I’ve rebonded with turn out to be super awesome, and I’m gonna try and see more of them, hopefully before my party would be nice. Be good to show them round Bournemouth.
28th I wrote that my ‘Stop Stop’ hoodie arrived – mate, best hoodie ever! It’s so warm and so comfy…… go get one!

I think that’s about all folks!

BRING ON 2017!!!!!

Jodie ❤

Another Update – it’s been a while!

Last time I did a ‘life update’ was on the 22nd April! Exciting things have happened and changed since then I am sure – and I haven’t wrote a blog for a while so……. Hello 😛 

Not entirely sure where to start with this, but, I could talk about a few body updates I guess!
Firstly, my hair is now ‘two-toned’ 😀 I’m so happy with it. I wanted my hair to be two-toned for ages, but I got extra inclined to do it for ‘Stop Stop’ … so I thought “fuck it” and I did it. It’s my usual red colour on the top and black underneath, but I think I want the red to be more in your face. The sun/hat has literally turned my hair brown -_-
Secondly, I have another tattoo! My 4th to my growing collection 🙂 I now have to think a little harder about what I want now, as they all sort of flow together. I don’t want to start getting random stuff that would look out of place etc – but I’m sure it’ll be fine. I’m currently writing a blog about all of my tattoos, but I don’t have enough yet to post it haha… so you’ll have to wait to hear about the ‘story’ and ‘meaning’ behind my new one. I’m sure most of you have seen it in my recent photographs anyway…
Lastly… I’m 2 months vegetarian! Woo! Go me! I literally just bloody hate meat. The smell, taste, texture… eugh, nothing worse than steak or bacon. I’ve lost 4lbs through it though 😀

We’ve entered our quiet months at work now, so I don’t have a lot of stuff to do. Luckily I’ve saved up a bit of money and I’m gonna take myself off to a couple of Rolling Stones related places in the UK that I’ve always wanted to visit. After I came back from the Exhibition, I just knew it was the right time to start ‘living’. So, I’m taking a friend or two to the Exhibition in Chelsea and then of course to Sticky Fingers (Bill Wyman’s Restaurant). Also going to try and get over to Dartford to see where Mick & Keith crossed paths, as well as perhaps seeing my Nana in Didcot for the day. Got to be nice in the hopes that she will come to my 21st!!
I’m also having a cheeky visit to Glouster and Cheltenham… obviously I have to visit Brian! I’m going to get some flowers to put on his grave and leave him a little message. I was never around when he was alive, and it seems odd to think he actually existed. I know he did, I would just like more proof than the odd instrument and suite that is displayed in the Exhibition.

The Exhibition was amazing by the way, and I’ve already written a blog all about that! It’s annoying but cute when people ask for my opinion on whether they should go. I mean, I can’t decide for you – but for £20, it’s a fucking good day out, however, if you want some advice from a diehard fan……. DO NOT buy anything from the gift shop. Come home, go on to their online store…. so much cheaper! Unless you really want a football table for £6000.

BOWIE! Of course I had my first Tribute Band in May 😀 ‘Aladdinsane’.
Was so much fun to work with a tribute band. Believe it or not it is rather different than my Rock Nights, but I think I handled it okay. Was lovely to see Paul Henderson and the guys of course, who treated me so well and I hope I made them all feel very welcome! 🙂
I also got to go up on stage at the end of the show and dance to “Rebel Rebel” – was awesome to be up there with the guys rocking it out to our hero Mr.David Bowie.
I am honestly the luckiest person in the entire world to be able to do what I do. I’ve been brought up with bands and live music through my band, but I never thought I’d ever actually get to be behind the scenes and look after bands myself. Something I love to do at shows is, after I have taken photo’s, I like to sit at the side of the stage on the staircase and just watch and absorb everything for a moment. Aah it is pure bliss ❤
There was something extremely special about being able to do that whilst Bowie was being played – a lot more feelings.
Also met a rather funny lady who I danced with that night – I will dance with you at shows, no matter what genre of music. Don’t feel shy about asking me, I am ALWAYS at the front so if you want a bit of a boogie please do come and say hello, I don’t bite 😛
I really hope people do get to see how much I love and care for bands – hopefully at my 21st Birthday people will be able to watch and see how happy it makes me.

I’m currently in the process of planning my 21st Birthday (as I have mentioned a lot). Yes, it is a whole 8 months+ away, but I know exactly what I want. This being my job as well, I want to put absolutely everything I can into it just to show people who bloody damn good I am. The wonderful Saints of Sin have confirmed for me, so they will definitely be playing, and I’m sure Stop Stop will be too. I’ve already started buying the decorations and my own outfit. The venue is also booked, I just need to panic about the sound and lighting. Invitations will be going out in September/October hopefully. My photographer is also booked, thank you so much Andrew for letting me have you for free!!!
Only thing I will say is… even though I intend to make the most of this do and dress like a superstar, I will be working! There is no way I am letting anyone else do MY job on MY birthday – so if I’m running around like a headless chicken at certain points, or ignoring you, or often backstage, it’s because I’m doing my job and I love doing it. Plus, I want to give Stop Stop the experience of working with me hahahaha.
Now, I do actually need some helpers! So if anyone would like to come early and have a sneaky listen to sound check PLEASE offer some help. I’m going to need at least 4 people help me set up the venue (I’ll let the bands do their own thing, they’re big enough and smelly enough to do that) BUT I need at least 8-10 people who don’t mind staying till early hours of the morning helping me and the caretakers take everything down and clear up. So if you want some extra Jodie time, I’d be so so so so grateful.

Another thing that happened was that a very special someone decided to walk back into my life after ignoring me through the four toughest months of my life, and pretend as if nothing had ever happened. We would have been together a year on the 31st July if he wasn’t such a dick. He believes in these things called ‘priorities’ and I don’t. I think they are just a lame excuse for ‘I have something better to be doing’. After a bit of an argument, things still ain’t sorted… but I’ve thought “fuck it” I’m bored of waiting and waiting…. time to let go!!
I don’t ‘do’ relationships as it is BUT how un-fucking-fair is it to not even touch me, see me or message me. Like fuck sake man. I’m that person who tells people when I am missing them, and I tend to do something about it! Not wait until one of my ‘priorities’ isn’t so big.
Saying that – if you are reading this, I love you loads, and I hope everything works out for you, but I’m gonna be the selfish one now and do what I want. 

Also been to A LOT of Saints of Sin shows recently. Been every weekend for a month now! and I finally got myself a t-shirt… woo! As stupid as it sounds, I do get a lot of people moan at me for seeing Saints of Sin, and often use it against me. Yeah, I know… ridiculous. Sometimes I do feel really guilty for going to see them, but then it’s MY choice and I have fun. Something I do want to add which leads on to the next topic is… if I didn’t go and see Saints of Sin, I wouldn’t have met Stop Stop (the band who saved my life). I wasn’t going to go to that show. Then I thought “I wanna get out of the house… ah well Saints of Sin are playing in Bournemouth with some band I probably wont like! ah well I’ll go see them anyway”… and now look at me! And also without Saints of Sin, I wouldn’t have met Val & Hayley, who are like two of my best friends now. Saints of Sin are in no way my ‘favourite band’ and I do not ‘favouritise’ them at all. They happen to play locally to me VERY often, and I like their music & they are good friends of mine and often help me out with my job so….. they get a little more love occasionally. By the way… I’m off to see them rock Milford Music Festival tonight hahaha! Stick that in your pipe and smoke it 😛

Saving the best bit till last ❤
If you have read any of my blogs recently, you may have noticed that I have caught an infectious obsession with a wonderful band called “Stop, Stop!”
On the 24th June I got to see them at The Winchester in Bournemouth for the first time as a FAN! Was fucking incredible from my point of view.
To put how much I love them in basic terms – I see them on the same level of love etc as I feel with The Rolling Stones. They are sort of to me, what the Stones would be like if I ever met them (does that make sense?) – Well Jacob is my personal Mick Jagger haha, in my eyes!
Anyway, back to the point; this gig was beyond interesting haha! The amount of stuff that could only happen to me… happened!
I took the train to Boscombe to go with my best mate Sophie. I ended up being ‘asked out’ by some American guy who tried following me. I also finally met Mr.Dee Aldwell. I’ve known of this dude for AGES but I’ve never actually seen him or met him in person – was an enlightening experience, but he is as awesomely cool as I thought he would be and I hope some sort of friendship comes out it.
Lastly at the end of the night, I got a lift back with Val and Hayley… we didn’t get home till 3:30am… why you may ask? Our ride home had a punctured tyre! So we ended up staying with the band for an hour or so, before having to go and find where Steve had left Val’s car! It was an eventful time, but you know what… it was fucking destiny because we got to spend more time with the band!!

You can not believe how happy I was to finally meet Jacob properly! Lots and lots of hugs were given and received throughout the night. I actually met Danny first, I mean he is very hard to miss with all that hair! Was lovely to meet Vega also – you wouldn’t believe how lovely these three guys are, it really is quite unbelievable. If you ever get the chance to see them play, do go and say hello to them and get to know their story. It’s quite an awesome one.
For me, I think this is just the start of hopefully what will be a life-long friendship ❤
To add to that, I booked myself in for a tattoo on the 25th June about 3 months before seeing Stop Stop again. I had no idea what I wanted – I got Jacob to sign my arm with “Stop Stop”.
They inspire me to keep doing what I’m doing, and not to give up, and to also say a massive “fuck off” to all the morons who don’t support me, to start doing what I want to do, and go places I want to go because it honestly doesn’t matter, stop over-worrying and just go with the motherfucking flow!
Thank you Stop Stop, I love you guys so so so so so so so much, and I’ll be seeing you shortly, you just don’t know it yet 😉 ❤

Want to finish off by saying Thank You to my parents, Val, Hayley, Mattington and Soapy for sticking with my when the shit got tough and putting up with me suddenly turning on you, but most importantly for supporting me and knowing how much those three dudes mean to me and not throwing obstacles at me for it. It means so so much ❤
It’s so lovely having friends who would do anything for you, to help you stay happy. Keep those ones, they are the ones who’ll stick around when you’re old and boring.

See you soon Mofo’s!! Stay chipper 😛

JoDiE! X

Awesome Local Bands You Really Should Check Out

I absolutely love local bands! I pretty much only listen to local bands, except for the Rolling Stones of course – I guess it’s partly to do with my job, looking out for the best of local talent to be a part of my popular Rock Nights, and partly because I love music no one else listens too. I love obscure bands that play their own songs as well as blistering covers… we need more of that in our music industry of today, rather than the shit we are supplied with through X-Factor and God knows what else. 

I thought I’d recommend some top bands for you guys to check out! Trust me, I’m very hard to please. I have a very specific taste in music so I’ll either love you or hate you, there’s not a lot in between.
I love guitar based bands, I.E riffs. I lovee riffs. The bass and drum have to be loud and powerful. Catchy lyrics. Good image on stage. Not too many pointless solos. I wont lie, I really really dislike bands that ‘over-solo’. I’m also specific in guitar players, I guess that comes from the Stones… I like guitarists who actually play the guitar, if that makes sense.
– I like being able to pick out certain instruments when I listen to music, I like being able to see how the band as a whole works together – I’m a Stones fan out and out, and if you truly watch and listen to the way they play and work together, its clever and traditional and it’s like eating your favourite meal – that’s what I look for in bands.

Also, some of these bands are not from the South Coast but are just as freakin’ awesome as the bands in my area.

STOP STOP

I’ll be honest with you. These guys are well and truly my favourite! This band will be the only one in which I’m really bias cos I adore them so much and everyone should check them out.
They are based in Birmingham but are actually from Barcelona, Spain.
I first saw these guys back in February at The Winchester in Bournemouth, as Saints of Sin were supporting them. My honest opinion afterwards was “what on earth was that?!”, I couldn’t work out if I liked them or not. Very loud, very in your face, really worked with the audience participation side of things… and their stage image….. I was pretty confused! The frontman, I found him fascinating – the way he moves on stage, reminded me a bit of John Newman/Marc Bolan. The guitarist, very good guitar play; very very good guitar player; and the drummers hair! Wow!
I sort of made up my mind, that they wasn’t really my thing – then one of their songs was stuck in my head all night, and all through the next day – so I decided to check them out a bit more and………… I’m pretty much obsessed now (they’re even playing my 21st bday!). Just goes to show not to judge a book by it’s cover, and truly good bands will stick in your mind, even if you’re not quite sure at the time.
Stop Stop – Toilet Party

PIRATES OF PANAMA

Pirates of Panama are based in Bournemouth, and have played in Hollywood LA a few times at The Whisky A Go Go along with other venues, and also been on tour with Faster Pussycat.
I recommend these guys cos I liked them from the first second they started playing at my 2nd Rock Night. Again, I’m hugely fussy with guitarists, but I actually love Ed Van Egan’s guitar style  – think he might be one of my fave local guitarists. The guitar is very catchy and not over-done. (Very Mick Ronson)
Their image on stage – LOVE! Again, it’s not over-done, it’s kinda normal ‘rock band’ – but not too ‘rock band’. They remind me of summer… dunno, but when I listen to their music I feel in the summery mood! Like I need to be on a hot sandy beach somewhere with a beer.
I just personally think they all work really well together – if there is any band half as close to being style in musicianship to the Rolling Stones… it would be these guys; personal opinion.
If you want a specific band they sound like, I’d say Motley Crue/Faster Pussycat maybe with a hint of Bon Jovi………..
Pirates of Panama – Been There Before 

VOODOO VEGAS

Another Bournemouth based band, and I have mentioned these guys before.
I’d describe them as Southern Rock – the bass and drum are very ballsy. Catchy tunes and both guitars work really well together. I guess you’d say they are a mixture of Black Stone Cherry and Guns ‘n’ Roses.
I loveee them and cannot wait to work with them in the future – they have a great stage image live, again they’re not too much, very riffy band. Literally just go and see them, I can’t possibly do them justice in blog form!
Voodoo Vegas – Tied Up 

THE SMOKIN’ PROPHETS

I’m going to say these guys are more Southampton/Portsmouth based? Correct me if I’m incorrect.
The one thing I will say in all honesty: image wise, they sort of look very ‘black’ which can be a bit off putting? BUT I think it actually works in the case of the Smokin’ Prophets. It work with their style of music. You’re probably thinking “oh god, they’re going to be really heavy!” – NOPE, I promise you their not.
I’m gonna say again that these guys are probably one of my faves purely because they are such a riff based band. Marty Mayhem is an awesome guitarist, his style isn’t over done and from the times they have played at my Rock Nights, they have won over a lot of people. I can totally understand why – as musicians they are brilliant. The drum and bass work together perfectly, and their style as a band is so diverse; they can be punk, the can be southern rock, hard rock, classic and even pull off a ballard! What else do you really need in a band ‘ey?
Very very catchy – in all honesty their album “Deceived Diseased” is up their in my favourites.
The Smokin’ Prophets – Liability 

FREEWAY MAD

Freeway Mad – from the Reading area I am guessing – DO correct me please!
One thing I do know for sure is they have just come back from playing Rocklahoma festival in the US.
I can totally see their Black Sabbath and AC/DC influence. Good riffs, lots of loud bass and drum, I’d say Tom’s vocals are very Bon Scott influenced? I can certainly here that anyway. Definitely got an imagine this band, their not too much on the clothing front but are pretty manic on the equipment front! Then again ain’t all the best classic rock bands… just look at Status Quo and their rows of Marshall stacks!
I know I’ll be having these guys back at my Rock Nights, and they were the one of the few bands I’ve seen that I was instantly “yep, they are my thing!”. You can probably tell so far that I really do like proper riffy bands, and these guys are one of them. If they play near you at all, go out and bloody see them – they deserve it! Love you guys!
Freeway Mad – Life Without Rock ‘n’ Roll

DAISY CHAINS

Daisy Chains are Lymington based to my knowledge. Very disco/pop sounding!
I like them! Not my usual type, but they are actually really catchy, I love how they all wear red jeans and the frontman is a left-handed guitarist. Fuck yeah!
Catchy guitars, and the bass really keeps the rhythm. Such a cute little band!
I totally should write more on them, but as their not my usual… I have no idea what else to say! But give them a whirl! Especially if you’re more into upbeat pop/disco music, they’re pretty good! Maybe not if you’re into hard rock though haha.
Daisy Chains – Honey 

THE FEATHERZ

These guys don’t really need an introduction do they?!
The Featherz – London based, Bowie-esque, flock rock punk rockers!
I’ve known Danie Cox for years and she is an excellent front woman. It’s great to see a band that is so full on image that is glam! Pure glitter! I reckon these guys are the ultimate ‘be yourself’ band.
I guess you want to know about the musicianship – brilliant drums! Guitar is just perfect for me, perfectly riffy, great rhythm not a lot of need for solos and the bass keeps it all together. LOVE!
I really hate musical wanking (as my Dad calls it) and the Featherz are a prime example that you don’t need to show off in order to be a great band. More bands like these please!!!
The Featherz – YOU 

SAINTS OF SIN

“Boo! you are so biased! You only like Saints of Sin and pay attention to them! you’re so mean!”
Fuck you then!
YES,  I have seen these guys play the most and yes I do slightly favor them AND…..!
If that was truly the case then this list would have been very short wouldn’t it.
SO! – Bournemouth based again, although they do play Southampton and hometown New Milton.
One thing I will say; sometimes I think they ‘over-do’ the guitar. However, their musicianship is phenomenal, some of the best I have seen! The bass and drums are strong, both guitars do in fact work together (whether or not it is sometimes too much), Rui is an excellent frontman, they are catchy, have a great stage image, work really hard and their interaction with the audience is insane – some of the best I have seen… so if they do slightly over-do it, all of that makes up for it in abundance!
Yes, I do love this band rather a lot but that is because they are so good! They play more often and are in my radius; also a lot of my friends are Saints of Sin fans. I love working with them, I love seeing them play live, and they’re playing my 21st Birthday next year – WOO! ❤
Right I’ll stop big-ing them up now – these guys really do work so hard, not one member sticks out from another, and I think what really does get people to love them so much is their audience participation and their stage moves.
Guns ‘n’ Roses meets Steel Panther – BASICALLY!
Saints of Sin – Feed The Fire 

THE BLACK BULLETS

You guys are from Basingstoke right? Do correct me please!
I actually do really like these guys  – may be slightly too heavy for me personally, but I think they bend that exception. I found them via Danie Cox of The Featherz and thought “ah, I’ll give them a listen”…. turns out I like them a lot! They are rather awesome, I wont lie.
What got me was the fact that they are really riffy, ballsy, bass-filled, the singer has a real talent as a front man, the drums are powerful, catchy chorus’ and backing vocals – I mean what else do you want in Rock?
Image wise? I guess you could say they look a little scary… but I personally love it haha. Lots of tattoo’s! Never a bad thing in my opinion.
They do play around London frequently and Southampton, so get to a show and give them a go if you’re about. I can assure you it wont be a waste of time.
The Black Bullets – Eat Your Heart Out 

MIKEY BALL

Mikey Ball – acoustic artist, based in Bournemouth.
I’ve known Mikey for about 6/7 years now, and he used to be my guitar and vocal tutor at Clive’s Rockschool.
Mikey is just so sweet, it’s hard not to like him and his music. I’m going to say I can hear a lot of Bryan Adams in his voice and playing, sort of like a softer and smoother version of Paul Weller. It’s very easy to listen to in basic terms. His songs are catchy, and very light and addictive. I find them very addictive.
He plays at a lot of open mic nights around Bournemouth, so go find him and give him some love, he deserves it – and he is really good. I wouldn’t recommend him if he wasn’t.
Mikey Ball – Castaway 

OUR PROPAGANDA

Our Propaganda are a Southampton based band and proved ever-so popular at my 4th Rock Night.
Me completely personally, am still not 100% sure on them, but I have a feeling they will definitely grow on me – they are such lovely guys it’s hard not to support them and wish them well. I think what really surprised me and my friends was the fact we all thought they were gonna be a sort of, hippy/psychedelic sort of band, and then they came out and… weren’t.
Jack’s vocals are very Axl Rose sounding to me, the bass is on point (i.e lots of it), great guitar work and the drummer holds it all together.
Visually… don’t judge a book by it’s cover with this band haha. Looking forward to seeing them again though… perhaps I’ll become obsessed… who knows! They are very passionate about the music they play and are absolute professionals.
I do love these guys though, and I can’t wait to have them back at another Rock Night – I can see why people like them instantly. (I do believe also they have played with Ken Hensley of Uriah Heep recently….. that’s a pretty big name to play with right there! CHECK ‘EM OUT!)
Our Propaganda – San Francisco  

BLACK WATER COUNTY 

Black Water County are based in the Bournemouth/Wimborne area to my knowledge; I describe them as Pirate Rock.
Brilliant musicians, no denying that at all. Gotta love a bit of Banjo!
They’re just a foot-stompingly good band – by the far the most different in terms of style on this list.
Visual image is smart, paired with an impressive set of musicianship skills with all kinda of instruments – catchy tunes; would be ideal to listen to whilst on holiday or on a boat at sea, at the pub on a summers day or a festival – very upbeat and happy!
Black Water County – One More Beer Wont Hurt

I hope you enjoyed this blog, and I hope you will check out some of these awesome bands; go find out how they good they are for yourselves 🙂
SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC & SUPPORT LOCAL VENUES!

Let me know which ones you know of, or whom you’re now going to check out due to reading this blog 🙂

Keep rocking dears!

Jodie ❤

Life Update!

I just fancied a little chit-chat and seeing as I haven’t done an ‘update’ since September 2015…. there’s a lot of stuff I could tell you lovely lot about, if you feel like listening 😉 

A LOT has happened since September such as, the cancellation of Not The Rolling Stones at the Memorial Centre, finished off my Stones tattoo, I got to sing on stage for a bit with Rollin’ Stoned at Mr.Kyps, got invited to see Voodoo Vegas by them, Rock Night 3, mental health problems, my 20th birthday and Rock Night 4! That’s what I can remember anyway. I’ll tell you the most recent and important things though! I’ll try not to waffle!

ROCK NIGHT 3!
Now what a bloody nightmare that was. P.S not intending to ‘offend’ -_- in terms of it being my job, it was bloody awful, not only to organise, but the actual event itself did not do the venue any good. We are actually charity run, so we can’t really afford these Rock Night’s as it is without them losing us a lot of money, which this one did. I am not blaming anyone, I think it’s down to very wrong time of year and I felt the bands weren’t ‘local’ enough – but they were all very very good bands and I don’t regret booking them at all… it was a good night!
My job was just stressful, and was basically a slagging off war. All has since then been sorted, goodness.
Big hugs to The Black Bullets, Pirates of Panama, The Smokin’ Prophets and Daisy Chains for talented musical evening 🙂

My 20th Birthday! 
I didn’t do a lot for my 20th, I wasn’t up for a massive ‘let’s have it’ day; plus it was on a Tuesday! And Easter!!!
29th March, I went up to Southampton with my best friend Sophie, and met a friend there and just chilled out, had a look round a few shops and had a Sprinkles. Started raining which wasn’t the funnest. I got lot’s of music related gifts though.
As for the ‘party’ I had a belated on the 9th April – same day as my Rock Night 4! Anyway, the birthday bit was a bit of a fail as only three friends actually turned up, but I’m ever so thankful to those three people!! Freeway Mad got me on stage to sing Happy Birthday to me, and Saints of Sin sang ‘Devil You Need’ for me and also helped cut my cake 🙂
I got 2 cakes which my Dad actually designed himself. 1st one on my actual bday which was a jar of nutella and a 2nd on the 9th which was a Mod themed cake… which was frickin’ awesome!

My Mental Health!
That has really really suffered, I’m sure you’ve come to note that I’ve been prescribed 20mg (atm) of Fluoxetine, for my depression. I basically had what I can describe as a ‘break down’ at the end of February/beginning of March. Everything just seemed to spiral out of control and everything happened at the same time. I can honestly tell you that the feeling to ‘end it all’ was so intense it actually numbed me. I can now look back and pin point exactly what happened.
I had a bit of a tricky situation in the ‘man’ department – let’s say I put him on this incredibly high pedestal and he just left…………… one moment he was there, wanted to see me, the next (literally second) he’d gone and I haven’t heard from him since. I’ve tried getting in touch and it’s basically like fighting a brick wall. It’s taken me a while to get over that mole hill, truthfully, he was a prick to say the least and the fact he got 8 months of my attention for nothing – absolute waste!
Secondly, Bowie died! You don’t really think these things effect you as much as immediate family etc, but it does. Someone who was there through the hardest years of my life has gone… there’s still his music but he… he’s physically gone. It still hurts, and I’m still deeply saddened. If I could swap places, I’d offer myself a thousand times.
Lot’s of my friends have either moved away or have ‘other things’ to do now – where as I’m still pretty much doing the same old same old – so I began to feel so incredibly lonely. I still feel it now. It’s a horrible thing to feel.
I also made a very stupid and far too quick decision to stop working at the hall and get a ‘normal job’. I was at this ‘normal job’ a day, and I tried killing myself that evening so I wouldn’t have to go back. Don’t care how dramatic that sounds, it wasn’t for me and I couldn’t see a way back to happiness. I don’t get on in ‘normal’ situations anyway. Luckily I managed to go back to hall as they didn’t want me to leave anyway, and have given me something a little more to do than just events too, so I do actually have to go in now. That is so much better for me, and I’m a lot more stable for it.
Anyway, I do feel a bit better now. I feel more stable – I’ve made some new friends, I’m sort of figuring out where I’m going, and I’m not so desperate for someone to love me, I want to love myself first and I’m getting there.
Also, if I hadn’t of found this wonderful band called ‘Stop Stop’, I don’t know what I would have done, they were just what I needed and came along at the precisely right time! Honestly they are now one of my favourite bands, right up there with The Stones. They give me that feeling of joy and love back… no way am I letting that go!

ROCK NIGHT 4!
Right, I honestly cannot even begin to explain how absolutely out of this world amazing Rock Night 4 was. In the eyes of business it was the most successful, the most stress-free – and in terms of a music lover: best line up I’ve seen for a long time, so much talent and so much love and positive vibes, it honestly was like being thrown back in time and the feeling… I regard it close to love!
I think what made it so special was how all the bands were just so lovely and supportive of each other, everyone danced to each other’s sets and hanged out together. No one was divided.
The best part was when Saints of Sin were on, and I some how ended up headbanging with 5 members from all different bands right at the front! haha.
I also made some lovely new friends who are more my sort of people to hang out with, as appose to those I have been hanging out with most of my life. It’s like a breath of fresh air to finally have new people who are far more awesome and are on my level. Feel so lucky to have met them.
I did have some backlash from this event, but I think I’m allowed to be bloody more than proud that I pulled this off – what with my current mental state, and trying to jump out of the top floor window half way through the evening, it’s amazing I managed to see it through. A month ago I didn’t even think I’d be around to see it, let alone it almost getting cancelled a few days before the date – and I saved that all on my own, with the help of Josh of course! But still… I saved the day and put on our most successful Rock Night. I’m more than proud…. I DID IT!!!
Things are now going my way… exciting things for the future are now happening off the back of this Rock Night 😀
Huge thanks to Saints of Sin, Freeway Mad, Our Propaganda and Lip Service of course 🙂

 

That’s all from me for now!!

Jodie ❤