CONTENTS DEB GEISSLER PUBLISHER dgeissler@desertentertainer.com GREG ARCHER EXECUTIVE EDITOR news@desertentertainer.com JOSE DE LA CRUZ EDITOR news@desertentertainer.com ADVERTISING SALES KIMBERLY BRUCKS ADVERTISING MANAGER kbrucks@desertentertainer.com JUDY TELANDER MARKETING SPECIALIST jtelander@desertentertainer.com
P.11 HEY, MR. DJ 4
EDITOR’S NOTE Music—everywhere. And we tell you where you can enjoy it. Dive in.
18
EDEN’S GARDEN Brooke Eden opens up about her fascinating entry into the Country Music scene.
6
HOT, HOT, HOT Did we mention things are heating up? Our rundown of the best music outings in the Valley this season.
20
FULL BLOOM Creative, clever, and related. An inside look at the Cactus Blossoms on the eve of their Stagecoach debut.
10
KARAOKE, ANYONE? One local venue seems to have it all. Plus: Who topped our list of favorites?
22
GRAEME THE GREAT Graeme Edge hits the Valley with The Moody Blues. But what inspires the rock legend most?
11
HEY, MR. DJ They spin—and spin, and spin. But what makes our local DJs so darn popular?
24
12
THE 411 ON COACHELLA & STAGECOACH The annual attendance for the behemoths music festivals continues to rise. Here’s our take.
NOW SERVING: NAPKINS Between music fests and other creative outings, take note of the finest culinary spots around town.
27
TAKE A BREAK Behold: The Coachella Valley attractions you can’t miss.
28
LOVING LUCIE There’s never a dull moment with Lucie Arnaz. The showbiz hotshot and local resident opens up about her love of performing and some of the biggest influences in her life.
LAYOUT & GRAPHICS SANDRA BARONI GRAPHIC ARTIST ads@dmhnews.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ALISON ELSNER GREG ARCHER Office is located at: 41-995 Boardwalk, Suite L2 Palm Desert, CA 92211 Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday Closed Major Holidays
14
WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE Wynonna Judd has it all—fame, creative verve and, man, that voice! But the road to success hasn’t always been paved with gold. An exclusive interview.
Phone: (760) 776-5181 Fax: (760) 776-5733 www.desertentertainer.com www.desertmobilehomenews.com www.canadasouthmagazine.com Titles registered and all contents copyright 2017 by the Hi-Desert Publishing Co. All rights reserved.
A PRODUCT OF
P.18 BROOKE EDEN APRIL 2017
P.20 THE CACTUS BLOSSOMS DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
3
EDITOR’S NOTE
H
ear that beat? It’s music season. And what a season it is. With Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, and Stagecoach unraveling in April, hundreds of thousands of music lovers and a legion of music acts will be descending upon the Valley. That’s where we come in, so welcome to this very special spring music edition of Desert Entertainer. To be sure, both Coachella and Stagecoach comprise the more robust annual outings here in the desert, so indulge me for a moment as we begin there. Something really captured our attention this year. It was the lineup at Stagecoach, where 38 Special, Kenney Chesney, Shania Twain, Travis Tritt, Los Lobos, and the ever-evolving Wynonna Judd will convene at separate intervals on stage to create what could be one of the more
4
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
memorable Stagecoach experiences we’ve seen here in some time. And it’s Wynonna, in fact, that we find particularly captivating, and that’s why we made this dynamic creature our cover girl. Judd is still in top form creatively and her relatively new musical posse, Wynonna & The Big Noise, is capturing attention. The vocals. The big passionate sound. The songs. What’s not to like. Learn more about this incarnation in Judd’s musical career and see for yourself why this powerhouse remains one of the most refreshing personalities out there—the woman is bold, brutally honest and just genuine to the core. In addition to interviews with other hot acts appearing at Stagecoach, we have a stellar update on what’s unfolding on the music scene for the next few months (page 6). Dive in and mark your calendars.
Karaoke much? We thought so. Read Alison Elsner’s spirited report on how one popular local venue is giving locals a real chance to shine creatively. How about DJs and sick spinners? (I can’t be sure if “sick” is still a hip reference to all things amazing, but let’s go with it, shall we?) Turn to page 11 for a rundown on who’s hot right now in the Valley. There’s plenty more in between, including a list of our favorite Valley dining portals, and a send-off on the last pages of this edition from a famous Valley local who continues to inspire us creatively. Carry on, music lovers, carry on …. Greg Archer Editor
APRIL 2017
DATEBOOK
ZIGGY MARLEY JUNE 16
THE
HOT LIST
We’ve got you covered for musical entertainment in the desert BY ALISON ELSNER
O
ne great thing about the Coachella Valley is the eclectic range of entertainment. Whether it’s a mega-production in a special events center or an intimate acoustic lounge setting, just about all genres, eras and tastes are covered. Here are some of our hot picks for upcoming performances that really shouldn’t be missed.
of Fame—twice. Once for his work in the Byrds (which he also co-founded) and once for his work with CSN. The cultural icon puts on a great show. Tickets, $39, $49 and $59. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio, 800-827-2946, fantasyspringsresort.com.
lywood classics. Tickets, $57-$107. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Dr., Palm Desert, 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.org.
David Crosby in Concert
An Intimate Evening with Kristin Chenoweth April 22, 8 p.m. The Emmy- and Tony-winning actress and singer’s career spans film, television, voiceover and stage. This live show will feature iconic songs from her Broadway performances in shows like “Wicked,” “Glee” and “On the Twentieth Century,” along with stage and Hol-
May 5, 7 p.m. Contemporary jazz singer and pianist Diane Schuur may have been blind since birth, but she was gifted with absolute pitch memory and a spectacularly clear vocal tone. She has performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center and the White House, and now the Grammy award winner will perform Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” with the Coachella
April 21, 8 p.m. One of the original co-founders of Crosby, Stills & Nash, David Crosby is still going strong. More than just a “singer,” Crosby is respected in the industry as a writer, producer and performer. He’s been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall
6
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
Coachella Valley Symphony Presents Rhapsody & Blues Starring Diane Schuur
APRIL 2017
DATEBOOK
JOSHUA TREE MUSIC FESTIVAL MAY 18-22
BELINDA CARLISLE HEADS TO THE WHITE PARTY
Valley Symphony. Special appearance by Buddy Roger’s Youth Symphony. Tickets, $27-$67. McCallum Theatre, 73000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, 760-340-2787, mccallumtheatre.org.
White Party Palm Springs May 5-8 A long weekend of reveling, partying and dancing to a slew of bands and spinners, this festive gay dance festival is an annual desert highpoint. Jeffrey Sanker’s White Party will include redesigned Day Club Pool Parties and 2017 Queen of 2017 Queen of the White Party, “Real
APRIL 2017
KRISTEN CHENOWETH APRIL 22
Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Kyle Richards. Different days feature different parties with entertainers such as Belinda Carlisle, DJs Suri, Dan Slater, and DJ Aron. Fireworks and a sunset Ferris wheel are all part of the agenda. Tickets and hotel room packages, $75-$5,000. Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 323-782-9924, jeffreysanker.com.
15th Annual Spring Joshua Tree Music Festival May 18-22 This four-day, “family friendly, global music
experience” in the “magical Mojave” offers much more than enjoyable listening. Its unifying goal is to create positive and life-changing moments for all attendees by featuring a diverse array of music by rising artists. The Festival is aligned with the non-profit Joshua Tree Living Arts, dedicated to enriching lives, empowering people, and strengthening community via sustainable educational programs. Tickets, $70-$825, kids 10 and under free. Joshua Tree Lake Campground, 2601 Sunfair Road, Joshua Tree, joshuatreemusicfestival.com.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 >>> DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
7
DATEBOOK
SPLASH HOUSE JUNE 9-11
Splash House June 9-11 Splash House heads back to the desert this summer for its fifth year in Palm Springs. The electronic music festival will again take over the colorful crowd favorite of the Saguaro Hotel and will also set up shop at the multi-pool Riviera
8
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
Resort & Spa and The Renaissance Palm Springs. The multi-venue dancing, drinking, bonding and bikini-wearing celebration includes hotel packages and shuttles between the three hotel venues. For 21 and older. Tickets, $40-$1,400. Saguaro Hotel, 1800 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 855-943-5418, splashhouse.com.
Ziggy Marley in concert June 16, 8 p.m. The reggae flag bearer and son of legend Bob Marley will return to the desert to celebrate Fly Rasta, his 2015 Grammy Award-winning “Best Reggae Album� and his self-titled album which also won him his eighth Grammy in 2016. The
APRIL 2017
DATEBOOK
What’s Ahead ... 24th Annual Jazz in the Pines Festival
A CELEBRATION OF SELENA JUNE 24
humanitarian, singer, songwriter, producer, businessman and children’s author continues to create music in the name of his family legacy, which he will share with audiences at this special performance. For each ticket sold, $1 will be donated to the U.R.G.E. Foundation, which helps children in Jamaica, Africa, and throughout the world. Tickets, $46, $56, and $76. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46200 Harrison
APRIL 2017
Place, Coachella, startickets.com.
800-585-3737,
A Celebration of Selena by Los Chicos del 512 June 24, 8 p.m. A special show to honor “The Queen of Tejano” with musical tributes to Selena’s most popular hits, like “Como la Flor,” “Dreaming of You,” “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom”
and more. The band incorporates Selena’s infectious blend of cumbia rhythm and Tejano music combined with Latin, pop and sizzling salsa sounds. Lead singer Karla Perez, accompanied by a full band, embodies the essence of Selena, delivering a powerful recreation of the music and moves of Selena. Tickets, $20. Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-200 Harrison Pl., Coachella, 800585-3737, startickets.com.
August 11-13 The Idyllwild Arts Foundation will again present more than two dozen bands at this breathtaking mountain campus. Performers and fans of jazz, blues and R&B will enjoy not only music but also works by more than 200 artists on display at the Festival Marketplace. Available items will include jewelry, crafts, clothing, posters and even food and drink options like Cajun cooking, barbecue, ice cream, smoothies and other treats. Tickets, $85-$350. Idyllwild Arts Campus, 52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild-Pine-Cove, 951468-7210, jazzinthepines.com.
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
9
OUT & ABOUT
Don’t Stop Believin’ KARAOKE IS STILL HOT, HOT, HOT BY ALISON ELSNER
D
id someone say “karaoke?” Then we must be talking about Peabody’s Café, the prime gathering spot in the middle of downtown Palm Springs. Best known for its weekend karaoke performed by a parade of bachelorette parties, couples on holiday, office parties, and your standard nightlife aficionados, the charming restaurant and bar is a popular breakfast and lunch eatery as well as afterdark party place, featuring a tasty Bloody Mary, as well as cocktails like the White Gummi Bear and Cactus Cooler shots. Owner Debbie Alexander, proprietor since 1994, encourages everyone to participate. “We give our bridal shower groups checkoff lists, and we also give the bride-to-be a free shot, which she has to down with no hands in front of her bridesmaids and the rest of our customers,” Alexander says. “We also sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to people, but we use the song ‘In Da Club’ by 50 Cent. The audience members often dance with the birthday girl or boy.” Alexander says that the most popular karaoke songs are “Sweet Caroline,” “Don’t Stop Believing,” “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “Baby Got Back,” “My Way,” and “Before He Cheats.”
10
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
Peabody’s plays 9,000 songs from all genres and has two different K.J.s, (karaoke disc jockeys) that rotate on weekends. There are plenty of memorable experiences for both owner and guests. Alexander recalls the time that a senior who had served in the Marines during World War II received an unexpected musical tribute from 40 Marines on leave who had served in the same unit in Iraq, resulting in tears all around. “We had one bachelor fulfill a dare by his buddies by singing, ‘Man! I Feel Like a Woman’ by Shania Twain,” Alexander says. “Also, I’ve heard many perfect renditions of, say, Aerosmith or Bon Jovi songs, and then I realize the singers are from France or Japan and don’t know a word in English but have the American songs perfectly memorized.”
Other Venues to Get Your Karaoke On:
Peabody’s is open 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Friday; 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday; and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Karaoke takes place every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 7:30 p.m. for those under 21, and at 8:30 p.m. until last call for over 21. Dive into the fun at 134 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 760-322-1877, peabodyscafeandbar.com.
19th Hole From 8 p.m. until close: Wednesday-Sunday karaoke. 42305 Washington St., Palm Desert, 760-772-6696.
Ace Hotel, The Amigo Room From 9 p.m. until close Tuesdays (“Karaoke with Keisha”). 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 760-325-9900, acehotel.com/palmsprings. RetroRoom Lounge From 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Monday through Sunday with karaoke nightly. 125 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Ste. 102, Palm Springs, 760-656-8680, retroroomlounge.com. Pete’s Hideaway From 8 p.m. until close: Tuesday karaoke. 665 S. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, 760-322-6500, peteshideaways.com.
Plan B From 9 p.m. until close: WednesdaySaturday karaoke. 32025 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert, 760-343-2115, myplanbbar.com.
APRIL 2017
DATEBOOK
V
ery often the “spinner”—the disk jockey or DJ—will be the star of the show at the nightclub or the party. DJs do so much more than just drop songs. They must know how to do things like match and juggle beats to transition between tunes, create live mashups, select appropriate play lists, integrate visual and sound effect units and use witty banter to keep the crowd lively. Oh, and look and act cool, of course. The DJ can make or break the event, and when they are good, they have the power to bring guests back night after night to the club, many achieving a “residency” on site. Here are some of the best at their craft, right here in the Coachella Valley:
DJ Aaron C With 20 years under his belt, DJ Aaron C has evolved into a multi-genre DJ with a background on college campuses, live radio, nightclubs, bars and private events. He has held residencies throughout southern California and the Coachella Valley. He boasts 100 percent live video mixing at every venue he plays, differentiating him from many of his competitors. He loves music, and he makes it a point to incorporate everyone into the musical and dance experience. djaaronc.com
APRIL 2017
DJ Bob Scatch DJ Bob Scatch has a decades-long career here in the Coachella Valley, having played at many popular nightspots and valley events. He is a true professional with a complete music library, able to suggest and provide the right music for dinner parties, reunions, conventions, weddings and even funerals. (Life isn’t always a party but music is ever-present). Scatch is also skilled as an emcee and in all aspects of sound, stage and light engineering. djbobscatch.com.
DJ Corey D Award-winning producer, remixer, song writer and DJ, Corey D is a favorite at the White Party Palm Springs and the Palm Springs Art Museum’s “Meet the Museum” party. Reviews repeatedly credit him for being humble, charismatic and talented. In his 15 plus year professional career, he’s produced music for radio, television and feature film, and he’s the program director for radio stations ClubHits.fm and PNN.fm radio. He says he’s most comfortable in the booth, however, spinning for a crowded dance floor, and he’s performed for numerous corporate events. pnnmedia.com/djcoreyd
DJ Pedro Le Bass The resident DJ at Moxie Rooftop Bar and
Lounge, Le Bass has the joint jumping. He’s turned (pun intended) the scenic restaurant into a popular dance club on weekend evenings, and he’s best known for fusing electro, techno, funk, house and disco tunes. Michael Jackson was an early influence, and Le Bass has said he believes music is a universal language that allows us all to communicate with each other. We know he’s good because not only did he previously have residencies at the ACE Hotel, Saguaro and Hard Rock Hotel, but he also says things like “Checka Checka my website,” and “That’s dope.” (Seriously, he’s really good). pedrolebass.com.
Musical Affair Entertainment Craig Michaels’ name probably rings a bell with a lot of people throughout the Coachella Valley, well known as a local television and radio personality since the late 1980’s. As founder and co-owner of his company, Michaels has more than 40,000 songs available in his music catalogue and keeps his music current with the latest top 40, pop, rock, rap, R&B, hip hop, alternative rock, Latin, reggae, disco, old school, jazz, lounge, big band, country and more, believe it or not. His company develops play lists for every kind of party, ranging from very grown up to kids’ parties with games. musicalaffair.com
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
11
SPECIAL EVENTS
COACHELLA AND STAGECOACH CASH IN
ÜBER POPULAR FESTS DESTINED TO BREAK RECORDS AGAIN
C
oachella 2017. Oh, the drama. First music maven Beyoncé reschedules for 2018—she’s pregnant with twins, after all—and then none other than Lady Gaga is lured into the elaborate music mix of the insanely popular music bonanza. Gaga’s appearance at Coachella, which runs two weekends in April (14-16 and 21-23), is significant. The Grammy- and Golden Globewinner will be the first woman to headline the fest in a decade, and only the second to claim that honor—Björk was perched atop the bill
12
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
in 2002 and 2007. It also marks a kick-off of Gaga’s Joanne World Tour four months early. Other notable acts appearing are Kendrick Lamar, Lorde, New Order, Toots and the Maytals, and DJ Snake. Meanwhile, Stagecoach, California’s Country Music Festival (April 28-30) has morphed into a bona fide attention-grabber, too. Locals and visitors may find some of the acts more— how does one put this?—perhaps more embraceable than some the Coachella acts that leave Millennials remarkable feverish. Here,
we’ve got Dierks Bentley (Friday), Shania Twain and Willie Nelson and Family (Saturday), and Kenny Chesney and Wynonna & the Big Noise (see cover story). Plenty of twang and motivation to go around. By now, we’ve all been privy to the cash flow Coachella and its musical counterparts, sired by Goldenvoice, generates. Spanning two three-day weekends with five stages and dozens of eclectic public art installations, it has become one of the highest-grossing annual
APRIL 2017
SPECIAL EVENTS
outings in the United States. Billboard Boxscore notes that Coachella grossed $94 million in 2016, and that its average daily attendance was around 99,000. And that’s up about $10 million from the previous year. Actually, according to projections from the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership and Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau, more than $704 million has been in-
APRIL 2017
fused into the global economy this year from the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and Stagecoach Country Music Festival. And of the total spent internationally, more than $403 million will directly benefit businesses in the Coachella Valley—at least $106 million going to Indio businesses. Good news, too. While Coachella is almost always sold out, The Goldenvoice company will
offers Coachella Valley residents a stellar opportunity to purchase passes to both Coachella and Stagecoach. Just take note: It’s most likely going to happen two days before each weekend event. That said, prepare yourself. Locals can purchase no more than two passes per person to each of the fests. Passes to the April 1416 Coachella Weekend One are unleashed Wednesday, April 12, while passes to the April 21-23 weekend become Wednesday, April 19. About a week later, locals can nab passes to the April 28-30 Stagecoach country music fest on Wednesday, April 26. Festival passes will be available for purchase in person at the Festival Box Office at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden (78200 Miles Ave., Indian Wells.) One thousand festival passes per weekend will be available from 9 a.m. Something to know: General admission passes run $399 each for Coachella and $329 each for Stagecoach. Have at it. Learn more about the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at coachella.com. Visit stagecoachfestival.com.
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
13
COVER STORY
F
ame is big. And it can be noisy. Well, “noisy” in the sense that the human being thrust into fame may suddenly find themselves surrounded with a slew of more things to do, more to pay attention to, and more distractions to slay. Fame oftentimes also makes people seem larger than life, too. But here’s the thing: if you are larger than life before fame ever enters the picture—and grounded to your core— chances are, you’re bound to stay that way. Enter: Wynonna Judd. The Grammy-winning singer with powerhouse vocals and vibrant red-copper hair has never been known for being timid. Quite the opposite, actually. In fact, Judd begins our conversation with a robust, “What the heck? What the heck?” Which in Judd speak must be just another cool way to say, “Hey buddy, nice to meet ya.” What the heck, indeed. Chances are locals and visitors flocking to Stagecoach this year will appreciate some of Judd’s blazing personality when the performer hits the stage Sunday, April 30, with her relatively new band, Wynonna & The Big Noise. The band is yet another musical incarnation for Judd, whose husband, Cactus Moser, comprises the vigorous five-member posse. The couple
14
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
married in 2012 and Moser is the drummer and producer for the group’s self-titled album, which was released last year. The couple’s history is sprinkled with a lovely bit of serendipity, too. They actually met more than 25 years ago, when the Judds, the sublime and harmonious mother/ daughter act that eventually catapulted Wynonna and her mother, Naomi, into award-winning, unstoppable country stars in the 1980s, toured with Moser’s band, Highway 101. But fate takes its time and, of course, things always evolve a bit different than anybody expects. Not long after the duo married, Moser was severely injured in a motorcycle accident, the ripple effects of which found doctors having to amputate his left leg below the knee. Moser’s hand was also shattered and he went through months of physical therapy. He’s since been fitted with a prosthetic leg. In interviews with press, Judd said their album, which boasts a mix of more bluesier and rock edges than her fans would ever expect, was a kind of “battle cry … because it’s me with my fists in the air, saying ‘I will overcome.’ That’s what we’ve done.” But that’s nothing new for Judd. In fact, she’s pretty darn good at transformation.
Live Your Life Like a Blessing, Baby Greg Archer: Your latest album, ‘Wynonna & The Big Noise’ is just so energetic. Where does your energy comes from? Wynonna Judd: [Laughs] I’m so sick and tired of all the complaining, sadness and the fatigue and the worldly issues—a conversation with a single mother who is going through a divorce to people I talk to or run into in the hotel. Just life experiences. I realize there is so much going on in the world—so much joy, so much pain, so many feelings. And recovery. We are all recovering from something. All the time, it seems. You’d be surprised what I get in contact with daily. And when I get on stage, I feel all of it. I have all of it in my heart and yet, it’s my job to get on that stage, to be as authentic and real. So, all the energy is a big release once you get on stage? It’s just realizing that there’s so much going on, and we are a point in time in history where ev-
APRIL 2017
COVER STORY
erybody has got something to say, and I am one of those people who wants to be part of the solution. I’m learning to not be reactionary in a way that causes me to crumble. I’m learning to not be reactionary in a way that causes me to crumble. I’m the type of person that gets so fired up or so mad at the TV, which is why I stopped watching it a couple of years ago. I’m tellin’ ya, I don’t care what just happened at the Grammys as much as I care about as going out on that stage, and being the best I can be for that one person in the audience. Somebody who just came to the show whose friend may have just gotten them a ticket and maybe they weren’t sure or thought, “I don’t really like her and I don’t have any of her records.” And they walk away going, “I had no idea.” You like to please? It’s not so much about codependency and me wanting people to love me. It’s more like: “You think you know me and you think you have an idea of me? Well, take a look at this!” And then I’ll break away into a Led Zeppelin song and they go, “holy moly.” That thrills me. So instead of being reactionary. I want to be proactive. All the negativity, or all the crap I dealt with during the day, I go, “OK, what am I going to do with this?” Be a victim? No. I am going to be a blessing. I am going to go out there and sing like I am at Carenegie Frickin’ Hall. And sing from my toenail. I’m going to sing so good that somebody from that audience goes, “Dang, she can sing, man.” You know what I mean? I hear you. I did a show at South by Southwest for instance,
and I walked up there and saw nothing but hipsters, and I got terrified. I thought, “These kids are twenty and thirty-somethings, they have a title for Godsake. Millennials? My God—what the heck is that?” So I had a choice to make at that moment and time. I could either be terrified and want them to love me or I can go out there and give them what I got, and do it in a way that’s about confidence, not arrogance. And I went out there and sang the most vulnerable, and most stripped down version of things. And afterward, it was silence. Like it was in church. And you could see the looks on their faces: “We thought you were a chick singer who used to sing with your mom!” And … yeah, they thought what they thought. Somebody there later said, “You nailed it. You were the darling of the night,” and I went, “I have no idea what you’re talking about, OK.” You know what I am sayin’? I do. I do. I think if you are real and honest and yourself and you don’t try to put a bunch of crap on it and appeal to a certain type of audience or try to be a brand … I am not competing with anything going on in society today. I am just who I am. My wisdom and my experience, and I have done a lot-- by trying too hard. Please. Lord, give me a rest from that perfectionism crap.
Rockin’ With the Rhythm of the Rain Judd’s meteoric rise to fame was heavenly. It was the 1980s and, of course, her mother, Naomi, was part of that ride. Together, the duo released seven albums charting 26 singles, 14 of which hit No. 1 on the charts, including “Why
Not Me,” “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Turn It Loose,” “Change of Heart”, “Young Love,” and “Rockin’ With the Rhythm of the Rain,” among others. All good, to be sure, but selling 20 million records worldwide and winning more than 60 awards, including five Grammy noms, nine Country Music Association Awards—seven in a row, in fact—and eight Billboard Music Awards is pretty divine. The ladies managed to become the biggest-selling duo in country music and remained at the top until another duo, Brooks & Dunn, found the spotlight. The Judds’ evolution stands out for a number of other reasons. They were a rare mother/ daughter pair and, well, female, which, in turn, fueled a younger generation of women singers and young girls wanting to pursue their creative dreams and, perhaps, finally find role models to encourage them. But The Judds’ fame may have been a shock even to them. They were living in Kentucky back in 1976, where Naomi was a nurse and was raising Wynonna and half-sister Ashley. Wynonna found country music particularly inspiring and one Christmas, she was gifted a guitar and that changed everything. So did a move to Nashville in 1979. After Naomi had to step down from performing to tend to health matters, Wynonna decided to pursue a solo career in the 1990s. Once again, the skies opened and Judd shined, this time releasing eight studio albums. Her first three singles—“She Is His Only Need,” “I Saw The Light,” and “No One Else on Earth”—found the No. 1 spot and later, in 1993, so, too, did “Only Love.” “To Be Loved,” which came out in 1996, was a big hit, too, and with a live album, a holiday album and two memorable compilation albums factored into the mix, Wynonna soared solo, charting more than 20 singles.
NEW FRONTIERS WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE IS MAKING WAVES AND ALLOWS JUDD TO PERFORM WITH HER HUSBAND, CACTUS MOSER (FAR RIGHT).
APRIL 2017
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
15
COVER STORY
You love to put on a show, in the best sense, I mean. There’s a strong work ethic in you. When I came out there to perform for all of those millennials, I didn’t realize that I needed a title, but my job is to show them what life looks like—for me, for them, for you, for everybody whose getting older. You know, the world is a hard place sometimes, so, what do we do with all of that? We have a choice. You can be a victim, or you can get out there and be part of the solution, and that’s my goal every night— for somebody to walk away feeling better than they did when they came to the show. Not because of alcohol and production values, and all of that crap. I’ve already done all that. My job is to help the human spirit feel like, “You know what? That was a really, really good experience, and to hopefully feel some relief and some joy.” To inspire. To share your gifts. So do you think music found you or that you found music? Both. I found music because I lived in Appalachia. I lived with a single parent who was going to school to become a nurse. And we pretty much had food stamps. You know, we had nothing, really, but each other. And I had time. And because of that, I found my guitar. Somebody gave my mother a guitar at the house and we had no TV, no telephone. So, I should say I found guitar, and it saved my life. Literally. And what happened after that? I stared writing songs. After all, if you read the book [I wrote] and see the movie, you realize that a bunch of crap happened to me that caused me to, all of a sudden, be in front of 10,000 people. But hey, it’s kind of that authentic moment when I grabbed the guitar. Somebody once interviewed me and I said, “I didn’t know if it was a weapon or what.” It became an appendage. I carried that guitar everywhere I went. I think that’s why the song “Girls With Guitars” was written because I went everywhere with that thing. If there was a guitar in the hallway … “Well, Wynonna must be in the bedroom, because that’s hers.” You seem to be a natural born storyteller. Would you agree? That’s how people change. Being in recovery … we all go through recovery for something, right? When you are in the room talking to a group of people, when you tell your story, that’s how we learn. That’s how we grow. That’s how we change. If you want what that person has who’s telling the story, you ask questions, which is the beginning of knowledge, which is
16
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
power to me. I love telling “a story” … because stories are just so very important enough.
Making Noise
That’s where I am. People go, “What is going on with you?” I’ll be 53 in May. Are you kidding me? I want to get away with as much as I can.
There are many revealing moments in Judd’s 2007 memoir, “Coming Home To Myself,” however in the preface, the performer wrote about her health challenges and hitting that proverbial “brick wall.” At the time, she was worried about her weight, feeling overworked and battling a deep bout of depression. Her unstoppable spirit may have saved her during those dark moments when she feared her life was over and true to form, she did the most Wynonna thing she could. Talk about it. To Oprah Winfrey no less, and in front of millions of viewers. The admission that she had a problem was the first step toward walking differently on the road ahead and it’s a reminder of just how strong Judd’s verve actually is. She’s not one to hold back. It’s evident in her relationship with Moser, her two children (with ex-husband Arch Kelley III), Elijah and Grace, and the songs she’s written and continues to croon. On her latest album, which boasts 12 tracks, including such spirited song titles, such as “Jesus and a Jukebox,” “Cool Ya’,” and “Every Ending (Is A New Beginning),” Judd and the gang go all out, delivering an ambitious, often soul-filled outing with lyrics that reflect back on Judd’s audacious personality. One track, “Keeps Me Alive,” in fact, could be Judd’s personal anthem.
I feel like I am just getting started.
This is my story, this is my glory This is what keeps me alive This is me flying, this is me trying This is what keeps me alive
Yes. They cause me to be proactive and to forget everything else out there, and to do what you love or check out something new. And then I’m doing a song that they picked, and I’m loving it. They just let me try stuff. I’ve been on the bus with them for about a year, and it nearly drove me crazy, but it’s been the most fun I’ve ever had.
I ‘get’ what you are saying about telling stories. I know you get it. You get it when you get older. True. I’m over 45 and I still act 15. Crazy.
I do, too. We’re working on the next record already and I have nothing but love and time and energy, and I told the guys, “Let’s do it with as much energy as we’ve never had before and get away with as much as possible and get paid for it.” Nice. By the way you talk, it sounds like you’re loving all of it. So tell me: What are you loving most about your most recent incarnation? I really am loving it. I am. And sometimes, it frustrates me so much that I literally walk away from the experience with them and go, “They are making me crazy!” They’re like the brothers I never wanted because they say things to me like, “You know what? We should use that one song because she is a friend and I know her,’ and I’m like, ‘Are you serious?’” And the next night I am literally jumping around like a maniac, loving it. I think what’s great about the band is that they push me and make me try stuff that I don’t want to try and that’s really good for me, because we get stuck in our ways, as artists, just like in anything else. We can become complacent. It’s good to get a nudge.
Catch Wynonna & The Big Noise Sunday, April 30 at Stagecoach (stagecoachfestival.com). Keep track of Wynonna Judd at wynonna.com.
APRIL 2017
SPOTLIGHT
W
hat’s this? A singer that doesn’t mind imperfection and loves to bring to life stories through music that are raw, often edgy and bit “out of the box?” Meet Brooke Eden. She’s one of Country Music’s more vibrant rising stars and her sass and spirit are capturing attention. “I grew up on straight-up country music,” Eden says, recalling her Loxahatchee, Florida, upbringing—she was raised between the ocean and the swamps. “I feel as if I was a soul singer in another life. But I don’t like perfection in music. I like for things to be a little raw, and a little messy sometimes. I like to bring grit and gravel in and just a different part of your heart onto the stage.” Thus far, it’s working in her favor. In just a few short years, the singer-songwriter has managed to grab the spotlight and garner criti-
18
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
cal praise. She hits Stagecoach this year, so be forewarned: You may melt upon hearing her heart-tugging hit, “Act Like You Don’t,” off of her “Welcome to the Weekend” album. Like so many other country singers, Eden was influenced by her family’s creative roots. “My dad was very inspirational for me,” she says. “He was a drummer and I started singing with him when I was about 5, so my weekends consisted of a lot of country music and singing Honky Tonk. But he never sugar-coated things for me or told it was going to be easy. He was always the voice of reality. He was like, ‘If you want this or not, you won’t be able to just sing. You have to work hard.’” That work ethic certainly fueled Eden’s desire to create memorable material and it may be one the key ingredients to the success she is now experiencing. Listen to “Welcome to the Weekend” all the way through and you’ll
discover a rare richness in the singer’s voice, something that isn’t always present in young performers. In fact, that kind of depth can’t be manufactured. It’s organic. Beyond Stagecoach, Eden’s 19-tour dates around the United States this year will be a hoot, but one question lingers, particularly with the success of Stagecoach: What is it about country music that makes us love it so darn much? “It’s real life,” Eden admits. “The stories inlayed in the music are things people can relate to on an everyday basis. I think pop music may glorify the VIP and models, but country music glorifies the life of a normal human and that is really relatable.” Experience Brooke Eden Saturday, April 29 at Stagecoach. For ticket, showtimes, or to learn more, visit stagecoachfestival.com or brookeeden.com.
APRIL 2017
TRI PALM ESTATES OFFERS: UNLIMITED GOLF, CLUBHOUSE, TWO SWIMMING POOL AND HOT TUBS AND RESTAURANT
C
oachella Valley is one of America’s best kept secrets. Not that it is really a secret, but it is the ultimate sunshine place with everything you want at your finger tips: amazing restaurants, entertainment, and lots of art and festivals. Heidi Gustafson first came to the Coachella Valley 40 years ago on a family vacation. She still remembers how beautiful the mountains were and how the palm trees towered against the eternal blue sky. She came back to visit her family five Heidi years ago and knew this was where she needed Gustafson to be. Realtor Heidi has been involved in the real estate busiLic # 01956857 ness since 1980. She has been involved in all as760.898.8788 pects including real estate finance and mortgage servicing. Since she loves the Coachella Valley so much and she finds it exciting to show the area to potential buyers so that they can make this place their home too--even if it is only a part-time winter home. She also enjoys physical fitness and training in the beautiful Coachella Valley weather. She also enjoys participating in the many road runs they have in the area as well as bicycle events and the local triathlon. Let Heidi help you make your sunshine dream home purchase come true!
YOU OWN THE LAND AND UNLIMITED GOLF FOR TWO DEEDED OWNERS ON RECORD
TRI PALM ESTATES AND COUNTRY CLUB 32720 Bloomfield - Adorable
$49,900
32059 Westchester Drive - Great view with garage
$63,000
73570 Algonquin Pl. - 1984, motivated seller
$79,900
33497 Acapulco Trail - Golf course
$89,900
33190 Acapulco Trail - Great desert view
$97,500
33303 Acapulco Trail - Golf course
$99,900
33541 Les Road - Garage plus 3 bedrooms
$128,500
33521 Les Road - Newly remodeled with garage
$129,500
32668 Chiricahua - 3 bedroom on golf course
$134,500
33441 San Lucas Trail - Updated throughout
$139,900
73170 Broadmoor Drive - 2005 w/433a
$149,500
33150 Barcelona Drive - Spectacular golf course home
$169,500
TEAMPETERSONREALTY.COM |
LIC.# 01224756
SPOTLIGHT
The Cactus Blossoms How these fiery brothers crooned their way to county music fame BY ALISON ELSNER
N
ow that brothers Jack Torrey and Page Burkum, better known as The Cactus Blossoms, have burst onto the country music scene, they also managed to earn a coveted spot at the Coachella Valley’s 2017 Stagecoach Country Music Festival. We can catch them on the first day of the festival Friday, April 28. The duo is busy these days—a jampacked tour schedule and all—but their fame has not taken place overnight. It’s been steady. Five or six years ago, the brothers found themselves performing country songs— both well-known favorites and obscure numbers—that had mostly been written before 1960. They were given a residency at the Turf Club in St. Paul, Minn., which carried them through until 2013, when they started touring with other established performers like Kacey Musgraves and Lucius. “We really started out just being ourselves,” Page recalls. “We focused on old folk songs, country tunes and rock and roll, and we just tried to make the best music we could.” At first, the guys didn’t really see the need to write a lot of new songs since, they say, there were three million great ones already out there, but then Jack started writing more songs himself as they went along. “We wanted to set a certain pattern that would really define our direction,” Page adds. “We were also influenced by some of the great people we worked with and the 1960s’ studio methods.” Things began to happen for the performers, and more people started to take notice of their creativity and bond—Page is 35, Jack is 30, and their other brother, Tyler, plays guitar on their album, too.
20
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
Still, the musical duo have been praised for aptly embracing songs that offer a taste of Americana, small town and tongue-in-cheek heartbreakers— think hayrides, blue plate specials and lost loves. “We weren’t born in the wrong era—we just got into some music from a different era and found a way to make it our own,” Jack says. The timing, timbre and synchronicity of their voices make for a unique kind of harmony. And, the well-placed twangs as they strum their magical guitars leave an imprint on the mind. In 2015, The Cactus Blossoms struck a deal with Red House Records, a St. Paulbased roots music label, and the brothers teamed up with musician and producer JD McPherson to begin work on their first album for the label. Having just returned from Europe, the band played 19 shows in 20 days. A glance at their website reveals an upcoming tour schedule with stops in New York, Oregon, California (including Stagecoach), Indiana, South Dakota, Canada, Spain, and other memorable places throughout 2017. “Honestly, we’re just going to go where the road takes us,” Page says. “Our home base is in Minneapolis, where we were born and raised, and touring for us is really fun. The duo’s newest album, “You’re Dreaming,” released last year 2016, is a culmination of several years of songwriting. “It presents a cast of characters, personal experiences and our own perspectives, set in simple rhymes and sung in harmony,” Page adds. “We have tried to create something that paints a picture in the listener’s mind.” For more information, tour dates or to purchase music, visit thecactusblossoms.com.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: JACKIE LEE
I
t might be Jackie Lee’s first year performing at Stagecoach and entering the Coachella Valley music portal, but the relatively young singer, who is suddenly on the rise, is certainly up for it. Maybe some of that has to do with the verve this dynamic spitfire absorbed from his Tennessee upbringing. He seemed to leap right into crooning straightforward and honest country music tales. Take a listen to “Getting Over You,” in fact, and you will understand. Lee opens up with Desert Entertainer about his musical journey: Desert Entertainer: You were recording in a studio at the age of 6, but when did it hit you … ‘Oh, this is what I really have to do!’ Jackie Lee: I was sitting in Spanish class my junior year of high school. It hit me so hard I wanted to walk out at that very moment. Also because I probably wasn’t doing too good in that class. [Laughs] Is it true that you were challenged to write a song every week? What did you learn from that experience? I was taught that writing songs is like training a muscle. The more repetition the more it grows. My producer at the time—and my friend—Carson Chamberlain, had me do this and I truly believe it shaped me into the songwriter that I am today. Your father was a musician. How do you feel he inspired you? My dad has taught me every single thing that I know about music. Not only that but he also put the love of country music in my heart. If your life were a country song, what would it be called? “Modern Hillbilly!” Catch Jackie Lee Saturday, April 29 at Stagecoach. For ticket, showtimes, or to learn more, visit stagecoachfestival.com or jackielee.com. — By Greg Archer.
APRIL 2017
SPOTLIGHT
I do hate rap though. I just don’t understand it. It’s like trying to see who can shock people the most. Some of the earlier rap-style music was really good, because it was urban poetry. Bob Dylan is a good example of that. He was more of a poet, a true songsmith. Do you enjoy touring and what do you need to do to prepare for a tour?
GRAEME THE GREAT GRAEME EDGE (CENTER) ADMITS THAT PERFORMING LIVE IS “ONE OF THE MOST FUN THINGS I DO.”
GRAEME EDGE
The Moody Blues drummer talks modern music, tour prep and bananas BY ALISON ELSNER
W
e like to believe that the most famous ones are the most down-to-earth. With Graeme Edge of The Moody Blues, it’s easy to see how the adage evolved. The drummer, percussionist and vocalist for the legendary mega-band that rose to fame in the 1960s during the British invasion of supergroups, has shown that he’s every bit as affable and charming as his public persona suggests, something locals and visitors will be able to experience for themselves this year when Edge and his bandmates, John Lodge and Justin Hayward, unravel their much-anticipated “Days of Future Passed—50th Anniversary Tour” this summer. (June 3 locally.) The phenomenon known as The Moody Blues was launched in England in 1964, and, aside from a hiatus from 1974-1977, the group has been together ever since. Other previous band members who are no longer able to tour, including founding member Ray Thomas, will still be part of the show, with giant photo likenesses displayed on stage. But, the current trio ably handles their global performing duties just fine, thank you very much.
22
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
The band, known for producing and performing music that bridges the gap between rock, progressive, classical and pop-rock genres, are revered globally for anthems like “Nights in White Satin,” “Tuesday Afternoon” and “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band),” all of which express universal themes of love, compassion and peace. Here, Graeme Edge reveals more of himself. (Note: imagine a bountiful British accent and some jaunty wit.) Desert Entertainer: You’ve witnessed every conceivable genre of music since modern rock ’n’ roll began. What do you think of today’s music? Graeme Edge: There is some superb music out there today—so many of the techniques and the vocals are excellent. Some of the women stand out especially, and I think Whitney Houston was one of the first to really establish that. Everyone has a computer and a microphone these days, so they can start experimenting musically at a young age and do lots on their own. Some of them, guys and girls, are really phenomenal.
Playing live is one of the most fun things I do. I could do without as much of the traveling, but you’ve got to do the traveling to do the gigs. It’s definitely hard getting ready for a tour, like right now I have to work on fitness. I need to work up to playing the drums for two hours straight, so it’s important to build up stamina. When we’re not touring and doing gigs, it’s not as intense and it’s more just fiddling around on the drums. For a tour, I have to be ready to really slug it out. I use the elliptical and I do lots of walking (not so much running any more). We’re also doing lots of rehearsing, planning and talking with each other about the show. We’re going to be playing “Days of Future Passed” in its entirety, so that means 44 minutes non-stop. We all live in different places, but we share lots of MP3 downloads and we Skype, things like that. It’s a bit tough now, but I love it so much once I get out there. Where do the three of you make your homes now? I live in the Tampa Bay area. Justin lives in Monaco, and John lives in London and Barbados. What would you like to say to your fans? Well, let’s hope they all come to the shows. I want to ask everyone to show up, otherwise we could look very foolish. I still get stage fright. The thought of going out there is terrifying. I have all kinds of anxiety about it. What if they don’t applaud? I have dreams about it too. I had a dream a while back and made the mistake of sharing it on Facebook. I dreamt that I was about to play the drums live on stage, but instead of drumsticks, I looked down and realized I was holding bananas. I don’t think I’ll hear the end of that one for a while. The Moody Blues perform at 8 p.m. June 3, at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino, 32250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. Tickets are $81-$101. Call 800-585-3737 or visit hotwatercasino.com/ theshowinformation. Visit moodybluestoday.com for more information.
APRIL 2017
FOOD & WINE
FRESH AGAVE MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
BITE INTO THE BEST IN THE DESERT PALM SPRINGS Escena Lounge & Grill American Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 1100 Clubhouse View Dr., Palm Springs 760-992-0002, escenagrill.com Fisherman’s Market and Grill American Lunch and dinner 235 S. Indinan Canyon, Palm Springs 760-327-1766, fishermans.com Justapas California farm to table Late night small bites 301 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs 760-835-5878, justapas.com
24
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
L’Olivo Italian Bistro Italian Lunch and dinner 333 N. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs 760-327-0382, lolivoitalianbistro.com Monsoon Indian Cuisine Indian Lunch and dinner 555 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs 760-325-2700, monsoonindiancuisine.com Oscar’s American Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 125 E. Tahquitz Canyon, Palm Springs 760-325-1188, oscarspalmsprings.com Peaks Restaurant at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
American Lunch and dinner 1 Tramway Rd., Palm Springs 760-325-4537, pstramway.com/dining Riccio’s Steak and Seafood Italian and American Lunch and dinner 495 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs 760-325-3111, ricciossteakandseafood.com Rick’s Restaurant & Bakery American Breakfast and lunch 1937 N. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs 760-416-0090, ricksrestaurant.biz
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 >>> APRIL 2017
FOOD & WINE
RICCIO’S STEAK AND SEAFOOD
<<< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Rick’s Desert Grill Cuban and American Breakfast, lunch and dinner 1596 N. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. 760-325-2127, ricksrestaurant.biz Simon Kitchen + Bar at Hard Rock Hotel American Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 150 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs 760-325-9676, hrhpalmsprings.com/simon Trio American Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 707 N. Palm Canyon, Palm Springs 760-864-8746, triopalmsprings.com Woody’s Palm House American Lunch and dinner 450 S. Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs 760-230-0188, woodyspalmhouse.com
CATHEDRAL CITY AJ’s on the Green American Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch 36200 Date Palm Dr., Cathedral City 760-202-1111, ajsonthegreen.com Tortillas Restaurant Mexican
26
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 32123 Cathedral Canyon, Cathedral City 760-324-8070, trilussarestaurant.com
RANCHO MIRAGE Pinzimini Restaurant at Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa Italian Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage 760-770-2150, westinmissionhills.com
PALM DESERT Fresh Agave Mexican Bar & Grill Mexican Lunch and dinner 73325 Highway 111, Palm Desert 760-836-9028 freshagavemexicanbarandgrill.com Fisherman’s Market and Grill American Lunch and dinner 44250 Town Center Way, Palm Desert 760-776-6533, fishermans.com Bucatini Tratoria Italian Lunch and dinner 36901 Cook Street, Ste 10, Palm Desert 760-636-5906, bucatini.biz
LA QUINTA Fisherman’s Market and Grill American
Lunch and dinner 78575 Highway 111, La Quinta 760-777-1601, fishermans.com Bucatini Tratoria Italian Lunch and dinner 46660 Washington St., La Quinta 760-777-9007, bucatini.biz Lost on 111 Grill American and island style dishes Breakfast and lunch 79410 Highway 111, La Quinta 760-564-8601, loston111.com Mélange at The Chateau American Breakfast, lunch, and dinner 78120 Caleo Bay, La Quinta 760-564-7332, thechateaulakelaquinta.com El Ranchito Mexican Lunch and dinner 78039 Calle Estado, La Quinta 760564-0061, elranchitorestaurantlq.com
COACHELLA Jem Steakhouse at Spotlight 29 Casino American Dinner. 46200 Harrison Place, Coachella 760-775-5566, spotlight29.com
APRIL 2017
DATEBOOK
ATTRACTIONS Agua Caliente Cultural Museum History, culture of Cahuilla Indians, baskets, artifacts, photographs. Wednesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 219 South Palm Canyon, Palm Springs. 760-778-1079, accmuseum.org.
terials. The Pueblo is four-stories, 5,000 square feet, and includes 35 rooms, 150 windows and 65 doors. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 67616 E. Desert View Avenue, Desert Hot Springs. 760-329-7610, cabotsmuseum.org.
round: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays noon - 8 p.m. Closed Mondays and major holidays; 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs, (760) 3257186, psmuseum.org.
The Best of the Best Tours Call for the lowest and best tours in the Valley. We have been in business for 20 years now. The original PS Windmill Tour Company. Tours daily: 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The original Rich & Famous City Celebrity Tour, Tours daily: 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., Indian Canyon Tour, Daily at 9 a.m. Also offering Combination Tours. Call for reservations at 760-320-1365 or visit thebestofthebesttours.com.
The Living Desert Zoo and botanical garden, desert animals, African wildlife. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert, free parking. 760-346-5694, livingdesert.org.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway The world’s largest rotating tram provides breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley as it ascends Mt. San Jacinto. Monday - Friday first tram up 10 a.m. Last tram up Sunday-Thursday 8 p.m., last tram down 9:45 p.m. Last tram up Friday - Saturday 9 p.m. and last tram down 10:30 p.m. Highway 111 and Tram Road, Palm Springs. (760) 325-1391, pstramway.com.
Cabot’s Pueblo Museum A Hopi-inspired pueblo that is a unique treasure in the heart of Desert Hot Springs. The structure is handmade, created from reclaimed and found ma-
APRIL 2017
Palm Springs Air Museum One of the world’s largest collections of flyable World War II aircrafts and memorabilia, vintage automobiles, large-scale model ships. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., last admission at 4 p.m. 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs, palmspringsairmuseum.org. Palm Springs Art Museum Featuring art and the performing arts. Museum hours year
Palm Springs Biplanes Climb into a 1940 Stearman Biplane with your favorite friend and enjoy an unparalleled view of the Coachella Valley. 145 N. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs. (760) 216-3700, psbiplanes.com.
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
27
THE Q&A
A
fter 50 years in show business, Lucie Arnaz may just be getting started. The celebrated performer, who became a full-time Palm Springs resident with her husband, writer-actor Laurence Luckinbill in 2013, continues to win raves with her stage performances—that voice, the band, that verve! A recent McCallum Theatre performance, in fact, packed the house and her “Latin Roots” show—an homage of sorts to her famous father, who hailed from Cuba—is revered for its zest. Of course, Arnaz will always have ties to Coachella Valley. She enjoyed a family home here in the 1950s and beyond with her brother, Desi Jr., and their legendary parents, Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball. (She’s quick to point out that the home was in Thunderbird Heights, and not in the Las Palmas area as some local
28
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
celebrity tours proclaim.) But even back then, show business was a staple in her life. So it makes perfect sense that Arnaz would lean into a career in music and musical theater. Actually, she did much more than that. She delivered a brilliant turn in several films, which included a Golden Globe nomination for “The Jazz Singer,” starring Neil Diamond. And her Broadway productions, including “They’re Playing Our Song” in the 1980s, and, most recently, playing the character of Bertha, Pippin’s grandmother, several years in the Broadway revival of “Pippin,” were downright sublime. Here, Arnaz shares her thoughts about music and how much it’s truly shaped her life. Desert Entertainer: What do you feel is unique about music and performance in Coachella Valley?
Lucie Arnaz: The most unique thing about living here, well, oh my God, you don’t have to go anywhere. They come here. It’s astounding to me that I went from living in New York City, where we have all the Broadway and all the clubs, and I don’t miss it because everybody that plays there comes here and does a show. It’s insane. When did you know music was going to be one of the great loves of your life? It really goes back to when I was a kid and spending summers with my dad in Del Mar. We were right across from the racetrack. My father had a piano in the house, and after the track, I remember him bringing people back with him. Sometimes they were jockeys and trainers, and
APRIL 2017
THE Q&A
sometimes they were Jules Stein or Sammy Cahn. You know. Jimmy Durante was next door and Bing Crosby had a house on the beach. Remarkable. And my mother, from the time I was 12, would take me from time to time to Las Vegas. We’d see classic people perform—The Rat Pack, the Steve and Edie’s, and Wayne Newton, who was a friend of our family’s. I would sit there and watch his show … after show … after show. What an education in music and arrangement. I grew up wanting to be Wayne Newton in a way. After high school, you were on the ‘Here’s Lucy’ show. The ways she did her show was that we had tons of musicals written into it. So, you just start learning that. I look back and think, “What and incredible education that was.” One thing led to another, and after my father died—I had already done film and television and Broadway—I found that somebody had sent him these old cassettes of his show, The Desi Arnaz Orchestra, none of which were out at the time—1986. I was just blown away by the charts that he had the kind of music back then. All of a sudden, I just got this epiphany: I wanted to really focus more on music. That was 30 years ago and it has been a main focus of my life since then. So, would you say music found you, or that you found music? One never knows. It’s hard to say. Exactly. I get that. But since I grew up in a household where music was a very important part of everything, I would have to say, both. I think first it found me by being in my life in a way that was like, the light bulb went on. Having
CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 >>> APRIL 2017
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
29
THE Q&A
<<< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 music. Loving music. Liking to sing music. Enjoying doing music on the show. Auditioning for Broadway. All that was all sort of a secondary thing. It was like, ‘Oh, that’s sort of fun.’ It was like a sidebar. I wouldn’t say I thought of myself as a singer. I was an actress who sang, but once I made a decision to put myself in front of a live band and concert, you have to start taking yourself seriously. Then it was really me choosing music. What happens for you in that moment of ‘performing?’ If I ever have any nerves before I go on stage, I always say to myself: “Imagine that this is the last time you will ever be allowed to sing,” and then the fear disappears because I love it so much. I cannot fill my head with any of the ‘what if they don’t like me?/what if I screw up?’ I can’t even be bothered with that. All I can say is that I love every blessed moment that the music is playing. There’s a tremendous amount of power in that … being in control of creating that sound and giving it someone.
30
DESERT ENTERTAINER MAGAZINE
So, what’s some of the best advice you’ve been given about life? My dad used to say this crazy thing to me: “If you don’t know what to do, don’t do anything!” That sounds crazy, but I looked at him and said, ‘What does that mean?’ He said, ‘Most of the time we say we don’t know what to do, when we do, and we do it anyway but when you really don’t know …’ —and I am pretty much an in-control type of person and I usually know what I want to do—but he said, ‘when you really don’t known that means, you don’t have enough information about what it is you are trying to decide on. So you better ask more questions about this or that, and give that some thought and look at it from all those angles and then make a decision. ‘No matter what decision you make, it will be the right decision, even if it looks like a mistake, it won’t have been. It will end up being something you were supposed to do.’ That’s always been true. It’s crazy good. Learn more about Lucie Arnaz at luciearnaz.com.
APRIL 2017