Welcome back to Shay & The Good People podcast! As a reminder, we are a live music show AND a podcast. Shay & The Good People is a singer-songwriter showcase hosted by me, Shayna Blass, and features 3 different artists every show. After the shows, I interview the guests, The Good People, to ask about their music, lifestyle, and spiritual practices that help them survive New York City!
Today you are going to hear an interview with one of my favorite songwriters and humans of all time, Peter Baldwin. Originally from Anchorage, Alaska, Peter is now a Brooklyn-based songwriter who I knew from a former band, Bedstudy. We got connected through the interwebs when Peter asked me to play a double bill at 68 Jay St Bar and I’ve been obsessed with his music ever since. I’ve had him perform on a few of my shows, including playing drums for my full band, Shay Fever. You know when you like something so much, it’s hard to really explain the specifics of why you like a thing? That’s how I feel about Peter’s songs. The guitar lines are incredibly dynamic but sadly you can’t listen to them anywhere, so you’ll have to go see him play live! I think you’re really going to love getting to know Peter more through this interview. Get out and support local musicians!!
In this ep, we talk about:
Peter’s entrances and exits into NYC over the years.
Things you want in New York require a change in quality of life, AKA money.
From Alaska to Florida and back to Alaska.
Peter’s formative music influence growing up in the church, playing drums, and singing.
Y2K - what even was that?!?!
Peter’s biblical references in his song lyrics that went straight over my head.
We both agree that morning practices are so important.
Quitting cigarettes!!
I speak a little bit about my own sober journey.
44:08 - I ask Peter about his song “Free Form Bird”, one of his favorites.
Peter’s inspiration for his original music: Louie Armstrong & Ella Fitzgerald and John Mayer.
How and why it’s really hard to do a lot of shows in New York.
An artist’s individual investment if you want to play and grow an audience.
Honoring your energy and stamina!
Peter Baldwin played on the September 5th, 2022 show of Shay & The Good People.
Songs in the episode by Peter Baldwin:
“Closterphobic”
“Sick Pleasure”
“Free Born Bird”
Come out and see us live! Shay & The Good People happens monthly at Pete’s Candy Store (709 Lorimer St, Brooklyn NY). The music starts at 8:30 pm!
Follow us on Instagram for show dates: @shayandthegoodpeople.
Guest - Peter Baldwin: @stayencouraged
Host - Shayna Blass: @shaynablass
Pod edits + mastering by Irving Gadoury: @irvingg_recording
Episode recorded at New Daydream Media: @newdaydreammedia