It’s no secret that the local New Jersey music scene has really been stepping up during these past three months –using their musical acumen to live stream performances, spread messages of change, and raise money for some great causes. However, some people have gone and are going the extra mile.
East Brunswick singer/songwriter Kathleen Elle has been going above and beyond as she will be performing her 100th consecutive live stream performance of “Kathleen’s Quarantine Corner” on Wednesday June 24.
Kathleen is the real deal.Every single night (outside of #BlackTuesday and an unexpected allergic reaction) she performs an hour set of originals and covers on guitar and keys. She takes live requests and can play almost anything on the spot. She absolutely blew me away with her cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” and Bruno Mars’ “When I was Your Man.” She even does theme nights including, Disney nights, ’80s nights, ’90s nights, and black artist nights. Not only is she technically proficient on her instruments, but the girl has range in her voice. And a whole lotta soul! I highly recommend her original tracks “All To You” and “Somebody.”
Most recently, Kathleen released a music video entitled “Superheroes in Disguise” in tribute to all the front line healthcare workers and first responders that are fighting the good fight right now. The song is fantastic and the visual element is a series of pictures of the aforementioned healthcare workers and first responders.
In fact, the song hits very close to home for Kathleen as she has many relatives working in hospitals and COVID-19 units right now. In a recent interview with Kathleen on my podcast, she stated, “”Just the fact that I can lift the spirits of multiple people – especially those front line workers, or those who are scared at home. If I can give them an hour of respite, I’m gonna do it. ”
If that wasn’t already going above and beyond, Kathleen has been making homemade masks in her spare time. I think many of have been trying to use whatever platforms we have right now to make progress in 2020, but Kathleen has literally done it all. And I absolutely applaud her for it.
In a business that is often very ego driven, it absolutely warms my heart to see artists like Kathleen doing literally everything they can to entertain, help, provide messages of change, and give us hope.
I am so proud to say that I know this young lady. She has made such a great difference with her music and her nonstop attitude and persistence has certainly made her a role model for others her age. Most importantly she has helped everyone to listen to music for a while instead of just tv.
Thank you Kathleen for making music come alive for everyone.