A week ago I received notice that the Portland Songwriters Association was going to be hosting its annual Top Ten Final on Wednesday February 13th in search of this year’s Performing Songwriter of the Year…

With that said, as last year’s winner, the PSA board presented me with a unique opportunity; either play as an honored “alumni” guest and hand down my crown OR play by the rules, play NEW songs for NEW judges and compete to defend my title… with little hesitation, I chose the latter.

Last year I played LAST in the line-up of performers so it was fitting that I was the FIRST to compete in this year’s competition. I was no doubt nervous when I started the evening- I played “Whistle Stop” and then made a last second switch to “Cellophane” as my songs of choice. Once finished I simply sat in the back (full of nerves) as the other performers played one-by-one, better and better each time as the evening progressed.

I was in the presence of many talented individuals and would have happily conceded my title to any of the songwriters in this final round; however, I’m pleased to announce that my new songs earned me a victory and the repeat title of the Portland Songwriters Association 2007 Performing Songwriter of the Year!!!

I didn’t expect to hear my name but I’m so proud to wear the badge of honor for one more year. Thank you to all of you for your support and providing me with the confidence to tackle these nights with little hesitation.

Saturday February 9th at the White Eagle was an amazing experience all around. I tried to express it on stage but I’ve never been the most eloquent on the spot; it sincerely warms my heart to know that so many people care about me personally or enjoy my music enough to keep showing up time and time again. The crowd was in full effect. I have an amazing cast of supporters and I hope you all know that it does not go unnoticed on my end.

Thank you to John Reynolds and the Cool Blue Review for having us be a part of the event and thank you McMenamins for creating such great musical environments. I’ll be posting some sound clips from the show later this week- let me know if you have any requests!

Again, thank you everyone for making the White Eagle such a success and thank you everyone for all of your support in this adventure. I’ll keep you posted on the upcoming shows and let’s keep growing this thing together!

Tyler Stenson and Lander will be playing a special musical event at the White Eagle Saloon (McMenamins) this Saturday February 9th starting at 9:15pm. Cool Blue Review will be presenting three great bands, including yours truly, Audio Fatigue and the Dead Beetles all under one roof. We ask that everyone wear something blue to support the Cool Blue Review and to show the White Eagle staff that you’re there to support your local music!

Also, Lander will be in rare form as I’ve put together a special group of musicians to help make the event extra special; Tommy Alfson on drums and percussion and introducing special guests Logan Coale (upright bass) and Daniel Work (keys). Logan and Daniel have been performing on the upcoming album so I’ve asked that they come and sit in on the White Eagle session. It will be like nothing you’ve ever seen from me before so I hope you’ll grab ALL of your friends and come join in on the fun.

WHITE EAGLE SALOON – $6
836 N Russell St
Portland, OR 97227
(503) 282-6810