New music and lots of heart

My husband and I were dating in college, and attended a concert on campus by Billy McLaughlin. He's an incredible guitarist and musician who uses a fingerstyle of guitar playing.

Billy has been a favorite of ours ever since that first concert, and we've followed his work for almost 20 years.

Several years ago, he disappeared from the Twin Cities music scene, and we wondered if he just simply decided to stay at home and raise a family with his wife, or if something else had gone wrong. The last time we saw a full concert by him was at the MN Zoo music in the summer series in 2001. As it turns out, he had an injury, and was thereafter diagnosed with focal dystonia - a crippling disease that caused him to lose the ability to play guitar with his right hand. Until last year when he appeared back on the scene, and I saw a story on Kare11, because Billy has now retaught himself to play guitar with his left hand.

An incredible journey of faith in God, and determination...Billy's music takes you to the places he writes about. If you get a chance, check him out. We got to see a little bit of his concert at tpt2 (public TV) studios in St. Paul as they celebrated their 50th anniversary. What a treat to watch Billy live, and take in the strolling melodies of guitar and strings.

But, the best time yet...we got an email invite to see Billy play at 318Cafe in Excelsior on Feb 1. Yes, it pays to get on email subscriptions.

What a treat! Billy's music sounds incredible, and in such an intimate atmosphere (only about 50 people were in the place that night) his music sings over the small crowd of friends. We got a chance to talk afterwards, and look forward to continuing to email and attend his future performances. If you get a chance, you've gotta check it out. Billy, thank you for your music, and for your incredible story. It's good to call your music "old friend."

Check out "The Return of Billy McLaughlin" on You Tube!