Here we are a few days into August and I am just very much unwinding from an incredible July. It was SOOO busy with music for me with some stellar shows! My heart is super happy with my band and all the humans who came to see us. I had a bit of a line up change in early June but ended up with a serious upgrade as fans are saying! 

I had 3 great shows lined up so especially for these I welcomed a bassist Chuck Teed, Keys player Huey Lord and also Amanda Doucet who is now doing beautiful backup vocals and percussion. They have been a wonderful addition to my lineup as they are joyful and professional so I'll use them whenever they can be on stage with me!  

Most recently with this new dream team, we played AREA 506 and honestly it was all fantastic. My band backing me up was amazing and it was one of my favorite performances to date!  

These Humans are super photogenic and its impossible to take a bad photo of them haha. I f you missed it well there have been loads of photos and videos from the weekend and See more photos and I’m LOVEING all the great posts from our set and the whole festival.  

Here are two of my favorite photos (so many tho)!!!  Check it out and let me know if you were there in the crowd!  All of these from Mathieu Savidant at AREA 506 because um ya he's incredible. 📸✌️

So now what's up? 

You can find me solo acoustic at the following festivals and events!  

(Tonight) August 4th 
Saint John NB 
Night Market Saint John 
6:00PM - 9:00PM  

Saturday August 13th   
Alma NB 
Rising Tide Trails & Tunes: Women in Song at the Molly Kool Centre 
7:00pm - 8:00PM 

Saturday August 25th  
Moncton NB 
Patio Fest - St. James Gate 
5:00PM - 7:00PM  

I hope to see you around this month!  

Love - JR 

P.S. I’m loving the spins on my music and the sweet playlist adds keep em coming! 

www.linktr.ee/jaclynreinhart for all streaming links (or simply search “Jaclyn Reinhart” on your favorite platform.  

Let's face it, social media is an amazing tool but also very throttled by the algorithm, cluttered with ads, memes and there is only so much room in a news feeds and FYPs for information along with notifications for invites that we end up ignoring or checking after the event has passed!!! Oh no :(

To help to make sure that those of you who enjoy my music and updates I am inviting you to join my email list and start a contest to help encourage you to share your email with me!!! 

Yeah, I know some will say email is not the way to go but honestly I check my emails hourly, and even if I don't read it right away, it's there until I do something about it!   

This way you have information direct to you not combating all the other social media noise! You can reply to me at any time if you have questions or want to say hi AND there is no obligation to stay signed up if you wish to unsubscribe.   

My goal for the month is to discover 100 people who want to be a part of my music community and ultimately over the coming year if I can connect with 1000 people through my email list then that will be a great accomplishment. 

So I am inviting you to sign up for emails at www.jaclynreinhart.com/contest and your name/email will be entered to win. 

It's simple just sign up for my email updates on live performances & live streams, new music, new merch, blog post updates, and more. 

Entries from January 24 - February 24th will be put into a draw!   

*Win a signed copy of  “Sleep with Ghosts”  
Or  
*Private online performance  
(approx 20 mins) Zoom or FB 

How to enter:  
*Sign up for email list  
*Reply to my email (current subscribers)  
*Share this link or social media post with hashtag #SleepwithGhosts 

Just for signing up, you will also receive a free download of my song “Takes a Little Time” 

At the end of the contest, I’ll draw two email addresses one from my current subscribers and one from the new contacts as of January 13th.  I’ll contact the winners and post the results on my socials.  

Thank you in advance and good luck!! 

I feel like every year I say "well that was one for the books". This year was no different.  To take inventory of my year here is the breakdown.  

• Started a band (The Fire Signs) 
• Started a long-term relationship 
• Started a new full-time job with an amazing company 
• FINALLY finished & released my EP "Sleep with Ghosts" 
• Released my very first ever Music Video! (Rearview - Check it on YouTube)
• Had one child turn 18!  (Yes I'm that old)  
• Had approx 30 performances despite COVID both solo and band!  
• Did my very first mini-tour in Ontario both solo and with my band 
• Ended long-term relationship (three weeks before Christmas) 
• Received a raise for 2022 
• Took my first two-week vacation ever 
• Was awarded funding from the Govt. of NB/Music NB for the MID Program for recording, professional development, and touring 
• Celebrated two years alcohol-free! 
• Was awarded the SOCAN Foundation Professional DevelopmentGrant 
• Paid off expenses for EP 
• Worked with some incredible Co-Writers for new material  
• Bought more cute dresses!!!! 

Let's talk about this, shall we?  

Funny, I can barely remember how I felt this time last year but this was the first year that felt like I could actually thrive after years of really just cleaning up messes and surviving. That might be the biggest gift I've ever given myself. I worked really hard over the past few years so it's very satisfying to know that it is paying off and I am seeing so much growth.  

The Relationship

I started 2021 single but then by February, I had finally taken the chance to open my heart again to another person after a long time of being single. It had been something I was so scared to do because I had been so broken in the past along with all the half-assed dates I had been on. He made me laugh and I was so excited to spend time with him.  We had a great honeymoon phase. 

I had to learn to open up and trust a bit more but also to stand my ground on what I truly want in a partner.  He was a safe place for me to heal for a while kind of like relationship rehab. Honestly, it was uncomfortable at times working through some triggers because we had such different communication styles and it caused a lot of friction.  

In early December...I made the tough decision to end it. Now I'm grieving what we had and what I was hoping to build with this person. I'm really sad with this broken heart at Christmas but my little bandaged heart just needs to catch up to my mind because I know I made the right decision. I still gave him the duck socks I ordered from amazon because they were funny. Although he has not acknowledged me at all since....that's just who I am and felt like it was the thing to do.  

The rest of the longer story of us will likely make its way into a new record because it still feels unresolved but I really did (or do) love him.   

Before I move on from my failed relationship actually if I think back to years ago. This year I celebrated two years alcohol-free.  You see old drinking Jaclyn would have got drunk, swiped tinder, and tried to get over it by not dealing with the hurt and disappointment. The fact that I've got through a fairly significant breakup right before Christmas and have no inclination to drink is a huge win for me.  I finally feel in control of it yet still have zero desire to sip OR date!!!!   

Now let's move on to much better things. I had one heck of a great year really and I wanna tell you more.  

The Job 

For a long time, I didn't feel like I should talk about the fact that I had to do anything other than music to survive. It was a pressure that I can't even explain. I wasn't trying to look the part of a full-time musician but I just didn't make it public.  The reality is that to make it a full-time job is just too risky for someone like me who is a single mom with two kids. 

So COVID kind of blessed me with no other option than to leave self-employment and find another source of income that would support my family and my creative endeavors.  

I'm happy and feel supported as a human and I have the vacation time that allows me to still perform music. So none of that will change any time soon. Music will always be a part of my life...kids only grow up once and it goes fast so I'm happy to be there for them in this way but also get to pursue my passion.  It's a good balance!  

It feels so great to be in this position and I have very grateful for the opportunity. (Shout out to BFF for the encouragement and reference)  

The Music 

Wowwee! 

It's been five years since I released any music. So this year was a huge deal for me. It was time-consuming, expensive, and stressful but it was all worth it. Having some pretty amazing people on the record was beautiful and I'm proud of it.  It got some attention from a few press outlets, 3 of my songs were added to really cool playlists on Spotify like the EH! List by Exclaim Magazine, it was voted favorite October Release on Americana Highways so now I'm on their "New Americana" playlist plus for the first time ever, I released a music video for Rearview, and it's at over 5000 views!  Check it out!  

Funds 

As far as funding goes I had some incredible support through the MID Program and am so grateful for the support of the Government of NB & Music New Brunswick. I was able to take my band to Toronto, cover a bit more of the expenses for the record, and take advantage of some professional development by working with mentors that have helped me define my goals and more.  I also was awarded a Professional Development grant through the songwriter's mothership in Canada the SOCAN Foundation!  I am so glad these programs are available for us artists because without them it would take much longer to achieve my goals or I'd need to take a second job that could take away more of my creative time.  

Speaking of now that the album is out and the new year is upon us...I'm going to be diving into more writing, co-writing more...then...more writing. The Fire Signs and I are looking to start creating together and will be playing more shows in 2022 both with myself as a solo artist and also as a unit. I CANT wait!  

Christmas 

I'm not done shopping but not worried about it. Mostly I enjoy the whole scene of the holidays with lots of great movies, food, and company. My kids and I love making hot chocolate and curling up on our big comfy corner couch and I can't wait to see them open presents on Christmas morning!  

To wrap it up 

There were some pretty major changes in my life that made for a remarable year and I am so grateful I was finally able to reap the seeds I had sewn over the years and actually enjoy the ride.   

I'm heading into the New Year with NO resolutions because I don't do that.  I like to see it from the angle of a renewed outlook on what I want to achieve in 2022.  I'm open to the possibilities in life and love. 

I hope you can reflect on the good stuff you experienced this year, learn from your mistakes, and heal from the hurt. 

All the best to you and yours in the new year. 

Love, 

Jaclyn Reinhart  

You can listen to my podcast version of this blog too! 

https://anchor.fm/jaclynreinhart/episodes/Another-one-for-the-books---Farewell-2021-e1brjtq

#behindthemusic 

“Sleep with Ghosts” is not only is this the name of my newly released 5 song EP it is the Title Track of the record. I wrote it with Tyler Lombard while I was in Toronto during a session at SOCAN Music the songwriters mothership, back in 2018. From the moment we started this song I knew it was special and became the theme for the whole record. 

I had always felt like this track deserved strings but didn't plan it in pre-production because it really didn’t fit in my budget. After we laid down bed tracks I just had this ongoing feeling that I should try and make that happen so I reached out to Christopher Buckley of the world-class Saint John String Quartet. He consulted with the other members David Adams, Sonja Adams & Danielle Sametz who all agreed to take on the project. My recording engineer, John McLaggan who is also an incredibly gifted artist/musician etc. agreed to write the arrangement and so we scheduled them to come in to perform. 

That day will always be near and dear to me because I’ll never forget how I felt listening to them perform on one of MY songs (and Tylers). I still get emotional because it's such an honor and even if no one else ever heard this song I would be fulfilled because this was captured for my own personal happiness. BUT it deserves to be heard because they sound INCREDIBLE!!! Please take a few moments of your time to listen. 

Thank you to the members of the SJSQ for being a part of my musical journey. I am so grateful for your involvement. 

Love, 

Jaclyn 

For all streaming platforms visit https://smarturl.it/SleepwithGhosts

I am now home from five days in Ontario, 3 gigs, and 817.7kms in a rental car! 

This was my first out-of-province tour with two solo shows and a full band performance too. 

What a whirlwind! 

My band flew in for one show!  It was our third gig ever and an absolute highlight performance for me. 

It was an incredible way to celebrate the release of my brand new EP Sleep With Ghosts "Sleep with Ghosts" 

Thank you to Kortni, Sebastian, and Andrew for your dedication and hard work to present my music as if it was your own and looking stellar while doing it. #stagecandy what a great team we have created. I love our band The Fire Signs! 

Many months ago, when the opportunity came up to perform in Toronto I took it. There was no way to know what might happen financially to fund the trip along with covid and traveling. I took the chance but not without help! 

First off, it wouldn't have happened without Sebastian Cook The BEAT Network  I have been working with him as my consultant and also he's the one who booked this mini-tour for me along with many other tasks. He is an industry Swiss Army knife! He does everything and does it with the artist in mind! Your hard work has been very appreciated. A big shout out for being my merch girl, roadie, working doors, promoting and selling tickets, travel buddy, and food companion! Our eyes were bigger than our stomachs at times and I didn't want to stop eating haha. I'm so lucky to be working with you and keep building out my career path with your guidance! 

Also, I am so grateful for the opportunity to perform with Suzie Vinnick Music. Thank you for sharing the stage with me, it has been a blessing. 

If you don't know her well she is top-notch as a performer and an overall beautiful human being. Every moment spent with her was like having a big sister to look up to. She is so thoughtful and caring. I see why so many people love her because she emits a warmth that I'll never forget. Also a big thank you to James, Suzie's sweet hubby! Thanks for taking some videos of the shows, I can't wait to see the footage. 

Nicole Léger is always amazing and such an important part of this tour. Her grant guidance and support are always appreciated. 

This was also made possible with financial support from the Government of New Brunswick and Music / Musique NB

through the MID Program. Thank you for investing in me and I hope that I did you proud in Ontario

A big thanks to my co-writers Tyler and Kim Williams Music for coming out to the show. It was amazing to perform Sleep with Ghosts and Rearview to you with my band! I'm so proud of these songs and they would have never been the same without you!! 

I am happy to have got to meet my publicist Jason Schneider who came to the show too. It was fantastic to have him see what I do live! 

Jason has been working hard on my release and I'm grateful for all the press and media attention he's been able to help me with! www.Jasonschneidermedia.com 

Thank you to all who came out to the show, buying albums, and for grooving along to my music! 

I did have a day to unwind in London before heading home.  From there I drove out to grand bend to visit some friends and just happened to meet a Brewery ow er who books live music at Bad Ape Brewing.  I tasted some hot sweet apple Cider and bought some delish artisan chorizo, hot sauce, and kombucha. 

Although I was all packed and ready to go last night feeling proud of myself I had made a mistake.  When I got to airport security.....the kombucha (along with my water and craft sodas from Anderson Craft Ales) didn't make it because apparently, I should have packed it in my checked baggage. I hope airport security gets to enjoy them and the lesson learned to read all the info when you check-in. 

Regardless the place looks like a great stop when I'm one to the area again and I'll just drink it before I fly or check it. 

In London, I took myself put on a date to Waldos Bistro.  I met two very hilarious men who made me laugh the entire time.  They were like Statler and Waldorf from the muppets.  Here's a selfie. 

Also big thanks to all who contributed to my fundraising campaign for my Tour Top-up!! 

Your support means so much and is helping cover costs on this trip. Thank you for $600 to go towards expenses not covered by my grant for hotels, flights, rentals, and transportation (25%). 

My goal is $1000 and I hit $600 last Tuesday. I'll keep it open until November 1st if you'd like to help out! Or email jaclynreinhart@gmail.com for e transfers since that seems to be the preferred method. 

I will have a special private video viewing and exclusive trip content on my website www.jaclynreinhartofficial.com after I close the fundraising campaign on Nov 1st. 

Thank you to the venues Heartwood Concert Hall the Supermarket and Anderson Craft Ales for having me! 

I can't wait for more shows and to come back to Ontario! 

Please check out my new EP when you have a chance! https://smarturl.it/SleepwithGhosts 

Here are some photos were taken by the wonderful Cassandra Popescu. She captured some great shots of my band from our show at the Supermarket in Toronto on Saturday night.

I have so many great things to reflect on in the creation of my upcoming EP "Sleep with Ghosts" Now that I have released the first single "Rearview" I can talk about it a little more openly!!! 

This album and song in particular came to life when I needed it! I almost gave up on recording and pursuing music professionally in early 2020 but one person, in particular, pulled me out of it and I'm forever grateful for her advice, support, and guidance to take the next steps. You see I went through a really, really rough patch and wasn't sure I could recover emotionally or financially for a long time. This was right before the pandemic struck! I had to decide my artistic future to push forward to leave it in my Rearview.... but I chose music.  

What a time to start recording an album when we weren't allowed to breathe in the same room as other humans we didn't live with! I launched a crowdfunding campaign on Feb 24th and 3 weeks in we got shut down. I managed to complete the project and raised 107% of my goal thankfully. I had some pretty amazing people behind me! Now I can finally show you all the work that went into this! The team I built around me helped me grow exponentially on so many levels and some are still helping me on this path.  

Everything that happened along the road to making these 5 songs seemed to come together in just the way that served them well. John McLaggan helped me create the sound I was looking for and suggested some incredible musicians to work with. From my long-time friends and even bounced some tracks down to Nashville to bring together the songs in my new Americana Roots Rock vibe that well flirts with country a bit...I dunno maybe it's because I wear a hat now. I just hope Sheryl Crow and Tom Petty would approve!  

I'll speak to Rearview for this entry. This song came to life because I needed to fill a spot that I didn't want to leave empty. I reached out to a co-writer I had met through the Songwriters Association of Canada's Master Class during the lockdowns. Kim Williams and I had a chance to write together and became friends pretty quickly. We had been talking about doing more writing more together but I didn't think it would be for this record because I already had the songs picked...or so I thought. I ended up dropping a song that was intended for the record so I reached out to her to work with me she gladly obliged!  

When we first started talking about writing together we started a folder. She dropped in a list of potential titles. Rearview popped right out to me!  We had both been in some less than desirable relationship situations and had a cathartic discussion about that then started writing this track. 

We worked so well together and it turned into one of my absolute favorite songs that I've written/co-written. It's about the moment you find the sense of confidence to put an unhealthy relationship behind you and begin the healing process. I think we have all been there and know when it's time to move on, it just takes a little time. 

Now "Rearview" is beginning its journey as it has been officially released to the world for potential listeners who need to hear what we have to say. I have already made it onto some pretty sweet playlists so far like Exclaim!'s "Eh, List" debuting at #47, Canadas Music Incubators "CMI Supported" and more. I am very interested to see how it progresses. 

I hope you will take a few moments to check it out. Please hop onto your favorite streaming platforms to start playing and adding this brand new track to one of your playlists, share on socials and tag me @jaclynreinhartmusic or just tell a friend if you like what you hear! 

More music coming at you soon! 

Love, 

JR

www.rootsmusic.ca