a few years ago I researched my bloodline to find out more information on where I came from. clicking through pages + pages I learned about my families lives. they were shoe cobblers, laundry washers, cab drivers, rail road workers, cleaning ladies, moonshine runners, coal miners in the Appalachian mountains. they were Melungeon/tri-race people living in Kentucky and Tennessee. they were Irish laborers who had to change our last name from O’Madden to Madden because they were treated so poorly for their heritage and couldn’t find work. they were orphans abandoned on street corners because their parents couldn’t afford them. they were fierce protectors of their family who weren’t afraid to fight in self defense. they were men and women who worked hard for their children (my grandparents) to have a better life so they could break the cycle of poverty. the more I learned the more proud I felt. my family fought for us to have a better life. my existence is in part due to their willingness to go on even when life was incredibly hard. I would rather be born into a family of fighters over a family of royalty any day. I love my rough blood and feel so much gratitude for everything they’ve done for us.
Today (April 24) from 3-5 is our succulent sale!! $5 succulents on Sanford Mall! Come out and support us!
I love playing music with these guys. If you like original roots music, go on over to #independentstatemusic and check us out or come out this Saturday and hear us live at the #jewelcityjamboree.
Way back Wednesday for this shot from a few years back of Independent State at the Tamarack Sunday’s at 2 concert series. Pictured is Gerry Noel, Adam Cox, Adrian Williams, @Minxybeth, and John Cox. Next up is the #jewelcityjamboree this Saturday in Huntington, WV.
Deck to patio Spiral Staircase McLean, Virginia.
Man in black, aka #foxburroughs playing triple-neck steel guitar at #wvpubfest. Catch us next this Saturday at Jewel City Jamboree in Huntington.