Author, Journalist, Copywriter
Renowned keyboardist Brian Maes is loyal to his roots. After decades of performing with legends across the globe, the Lynn native still makes taking the stage at North Shore venues a priority. In his new, three-part book series, Brushes with Greatness, Maes describes with candor and passion his lifelong, illustrious musical career, while paying homage to friends, family, and his humble beginnings.
Choosing a band name can be a laborious process. In the case of “Better Than Nothing,” the band seemingly landed upon the name with an ease that represents their humble beginnings. Lead guitarist and singer Craig Smith explains that while many names were tossed around when one band member quipped that any name was “better than nothing,” the band quickly adopted it.
When a small group of Marblehead residents decided to host an arts festival in 1962, it’s unlikely they could have foreseen the cultural significance the event would still hold 60 years later. The scale of the festival, which attracts thousands of visitors and works from roughly 2,500 artists from all over New England, speaks volumes about the far-reaching appeal of this annual Fourth of July tradition.
Choosing a band name can be a laborious process. In the case of “Better Than Nothing,” the band seemingly landed upon the name with an ease that represents their humble beginnings. Lead guitarist and singer Craig Smith explains that while many names were tossed around when one band member quipped that any name was “better than nothing,” the band quickly adopted it.
If you’ve ever seen Marblehead musician Chad Hollister perform live, chances are you’ve heard, and even joined in, on one of his signature songs. The infectious hymn “Life” is a testament to embracing positivity.
Finding live music every day of the week just became easier thanks to the grand opening of Beverly’s The Railway Tavern. The man behind the scenes booking the talent is Marblehead’s own renowned saxophone player, Henley Douglas Jr.
“Anyone can be loud,” Guy Ford said, referring to the mantra of his band of 25 years. “But the hardest lesson a musician learns is that less is more.” Ford felt a musical “spark” as a kid after borrowing his sister’s guitar
In case you hadn’t heard, Johnny Ray, “wants to put the band back together.” Ray and his longtime friend and confidante, Edgar Alleyne, are the dynamic duo behind The Beacon Restaurant and Bar, 123 Pleasant St., Marblehead.
When the world as we knew it came to a halt in March of 2020, the outcome was tragic for SOSS Records—a company who built its reputation on Boston’s North Shore as true “disciples of live music.”
When Eat Well Kitchen opened in June of 2015, it delivered on its promise to provide customers with fresh, delicious food on the go. Less than a year after moving into a new, larger space at 12 Atlantic Avenue, COVID unleashed its wrath, presenting a host of unimaginable predicaments.