Debi Jean Lands in Atlantic Beach. Guitar & Songs in Hand, Ready for the Next Chapter
We just love your laid-back style and wonderful covers! So tell us in what part of the First Coast do you reside now and how long have you lived there?
I moved to Atlantic Beach FL almost 2 years ago from Big Canoe, in the north Georgia mountains. In the process of retiring, changing it all up. I used to be a CPA by day. I lived in the woods, where bears frequently came up on my wrap-around porch. Now I live under the beautiful live oaks blocks from the ocean and I’m amazed to be here. Still feels new.
When did you know you had an interest in music?
I had no idea I had any musical ability and certainly, I had no training until one day when I was 63 singing karaoke on a cruise I picked up a guitar and began to plunk away on the A shape. I sang Candle in the Wind about a million times while I tried to understand the chords. I couldn’t follow YouTube videos. But I couldn’t put down the guitar, especially when I started writing songs. Here I am several years later and I can’t live without my guitars. Mr Martin, Ms Gibson, and Ms Taylor.
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
No. I’m lucky I can play guitar and get away with it. This is a life-long love affair. My intent is to play guitar to accompany my voice like the guitar has a voice of its own to harmonize with me. I really love swampy atmospheric blues but I still play like a cowgirl. It’s a path, a journey, an adventure. I wish I could play piano & cello but I don’t read music. So many cool instruments, so little time left in this life.
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
No. Ultimately I would like a kick-ass guitarist to make me sound better.
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
Bob Dylan, Neil Young. My son, Jace, of Madam Radar fame.
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
I had the privilege of belonging to an acoustic group in Big Canoe, GA. I joined when I’d been trying to play for six months. Honest to God–I didn’t know anything! Those guys were so kind & fun & I got to participate in monthly showcases & jams & I fell in love with playing music. Now I’ve moved to Atlantic Beach and discovered a nest of musicians at the Adele Grage Cultural Center that blows my mind. Jackpot! Score!
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
Dry White Toast
Rambler Kane
Roy Peak
Theodorus Rex
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
I go to Whiskey Jax on Blues Night Thursday to enjoy Dry White Toast and all the other fabulous musicians that get up and jam with them. I got up and sang once but I preferred to listen.
I haven’t found my place to play here yet. My style/vibe is kinda delicate and girly. What I love to play is a mellow coffee house vibe like from the late 60’s. My shows are intimate and conversational and I’m wanting them to be even more theatrical. Like little guitar operas. Storybook time with Debi Jean.
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
My weekly show E134 coming up next. Debi Jean Jams from the Castle.
As an aspiring artist my goals include playing at the Blue Jay Listening Room in Jax Beach and The Blue Bird Cafe in Nashville.
What is the best way for musicians to network?
Facebook, YouTube, Get Out and About, and play music.
Join groups like the Adele Grage Cultural Center puts on with Roy Peak. So many cool musicians participate right here in my back yard — PARADISE
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
I’ve been a quilter for years and I used to write colorful short stories that seem really dumb now. Music floats my boat now and I spend my creative energies creating music now. Songwriting provides an outlet like no other. Talk about expressing yourself. Geez. You can say things in songs you would never say out loud up close and personal. I think that makes me kind of an introvert but I love it when someone feels something when I sing and play. I love how music connects us. I love making up true stories.
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
Living by the sea is extraordinarily beautiful and this sweet little community is a happy place to call home.
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
Debi Jean Music on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram
- About the Author
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
