SEATTLE — Despite the coronavirus, Magnolia Steel has played on - lifting up the spirits of its Magnolia neighbors.
“We have the best neighbors and the best community,” said Lisa Gemme, a member of Magnolia Steel.
The band's outdoor neighborhood concerts started when the lockdown upended their ability to practice.
“Somehow I convinced my husband to let Rick come in the back yard and practice with me and we would be 6 feet apart,” explained Gemme. “So we were doing that and the neighbors happened to be having a socially distanced happy hour in the backyard.”
Neighbors convinced them to move their practice so everyone could see them.
“And we started standing here and we bring the amps out and we mic up and they come every week,” added Gemme.
The show has gone on every Tuesday since April 14 from 4-6 p.m.
Not only does the three person band draw a live, socially distanced crowd, they also share their music on Facebook.
“Blessed. To be able to share something we love. And talents we like to share together. It’s irreplaceable,” said Stacy Smedley, also a member of Magnolia Steel.
Their shows have gained so much popularity, neighbors are even trying to tip them. Instead, the band is taking donations for the Ballard Food Bank.
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