Maurice Brines shares very sad news: Many of you know by now and I want to extend my thoughts for all of you: The Speakeasy Smokehouse And Taproom has had to close their doors and I for one am very sad about it...and for them. It takes a dedicated dream, a strong vision and commitment to take on that endeavor and to work hard at staying the course. Thank you Adam, Keri, Jakob, and Dick for your support of musicians from all around our area and to offer that at no cost to patrons when walking in the door to listen ! :) Personally, my adventure began with them on July 7th, 2011...bout 9 days after IBM laid me off after 32 years and 4 months of service.....it was a good thing tho. Adam asked me to run the open mic and it ran for over 3 1/2 years. I was blessed not only by Keri, Adam, and Jake but so many others working at Speakeasy that it began to feel like a second home for me. The entire staff was fun and enjoyable to be around too and I thank all of you for that. I would name all of the people associated with this message, but I would inevitably forget someone and I dont want that to happen....so, you all KNOW who you are. I personally want to thank every single musician that graced the stage for me, with me, and with each other....and there are sooooo many performers to acknowledge let me tell ya. Without your skills, talent, belief, support, and your dedication to your profession....I would not have had such a success with all of you. It truly is ALL of you that made that life experience wonderful. Ive seen musicians grow and hone their skills. Ive heard talent that has blown me away and made me wanna put my guitar down.....only to pick it up again with some fresh ideas...thanx to the other musicians and to friends, family, and listeners....they all have encouragement and help to mold you as a musician. Weve taught, encouraged, nourished, and offered constructive criticism, when solicited.....I have always placed musicians high on my priority list. Weve held benefits for those less fortunate and given back to the community when possible...all of which makes us better people and musicians. When asked by me, bands and performers have come to perform at no cost to the establishment....why...because that defines those musicians as solid, caring, and supportive people that have pure love and enjoyment to perform for us.. From the musicians, to the people that came to listen, to the folks that always helped out at the ARTIST SHOWCASEs, to the wait staff at Speakeasy, to the sign in sheet help, the setting up and tearing down, the running of the sound and lights, my sentiments for all of you come from deep in my heart. It truly was a full production of quality sound and entertainment....why....because all of YOU were involved ! Ive amassed a portfolio of over 4500 pictures, and that was just the ones I kept, of hundreds of musicians, friends, and family. So, stay tooned as there will be some new news regarding another possible musical endeavor together....since music is the key to immortality.....I hope to again see you along the way my friends ! In any case, get off the couch and please support your local musicians and venues as that is what creates memories, fellowship, comradery, and just plain good ass times together .......Lifes short !
Posted on: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 00:36:03 +0000