#it’s another way to advocate for yourself and that you’re pain is real ben when it ��shouldn’t” be

[reasonreblogs]

If your back did/does hurt, advocate for yourself. Don’t let anyone ignore it hurts, if they say you’re too young, say “then shouldn’t that make this pain more of a concern?” because if you have back pain at a young age or symptoms you “shouldn’t have” then that’s *precisely* why it’s worrying and should be checked. I’ve had this as a hypothetical conversation because my mom had said “too young” before and when I framed it that way, she admitted that it was absolutely a very good point.

Though I will say: As someone whose back did hurt, get properly sized for a bra (obv if you wear one). You’ll be surprised by the actual instant relief leaving the store in a properly fitted bra (I almost cried).

Also I recommend working on your core strength, your lower back muscles might be what you’re using to keep yourself upright and working the lower abs and quads helps counter that and takes the stress off your lower back (sit in a chair that doesn’t rock with a solid back), lean back, and march your legs in place is the exercise I was given and it’s been perfect). Don’t go 32 years of that before correcting it, it actually sucks if walking puts you in pain when it didn’t ever have to. Sometimes you feel cheated over a simple solution when it’s like my issue but it just means you at east have a tangible solution, even if it comes later than you like.

why am i nostalgic for my teenage years bitch i didnt even have fun !!!

[blacklakeinavalley]

Reylo confessions / TRoS personal review upon first watching

"You opened yourself to the dark side for a pair of pretty eyes” - in retrospect this pretty much sums up how my obsession with the Star Wars Sequel Trilogy came into being. I was here for Reylo, Bendemption, and most of all Ben Solo since around TLJ. I could and still can relate to this character’s struggles and find him physically very attractive. That’s basically how it went down.

I had only once watched the OT, a few years before TFA came out. Then, in 2015, friends dragged me to watch TFA (I was like “meh, blockbuster” aka a snob at that time). I was pleasantly surprised though when I found the movie very well-made and entertaining. I did NOT get the Reylo-vibes then but remember strongly identifying with Rey’s fear at the beginning of the interrogation and Kylo’s line “You know I can take whatever I want“ making me shiver. I cheered at Rey for beating Kylo up on Starkiller Base and (joke’s on me for the worst take ever) legitimately left the theater believing him dead because of the explosion of the planet. That didn’t make me sad, but satisfied.

I did not think about Star Wars again until January/February(?) 2017. Another group of friends planned on watching TLJ together and and I browsed the Internet for some critics to read in advance, just out of curiosity. Somehow I ended up watching the interrogation scene on Youtube again and again, the sexual tension between the two I now clearly recognized finally taking my breath away. I discovered skysilencer’s/chandrilasky’s wonderful blog (which doesn’t exist anymore) about Rey’s and Ben’s relationship and generally started reading as many metas on this topic as I could find.

I fell in love with the pairing, and especially the portrayal of Kylo / Ben. Getting to watch TLJ in the theater was a bit disappointing for me though, after having read so many raving reviews on tumblr beforehand. At that time I could not really appreciate the changes in pacing and all the depths and nuances. By now I love this movie. Strangely, I never watch it in one go, only in smaller portions. Maybe an unpopular opinion, but I like TFA just as well. Ironically, the fight on Starkiller Base is still my favorite Reylo scene ever - because there’s so much more going on than “Rey beating Kylo up“. For me, TFA definitely is a lot easier to watch, mostly because of the more conventional pacing, I guess.

Therefore I was quite happy when I heard that JJ Abrams was going to direct episode IX too. I actually never doubted that he had planted the seeds for Reylo in TFA / episode VII. Sadly, TRoS, which I finally went to see with my sweetheart yesterday, left me pretty untouched for the most part. After roughly two years of really looking forward to, actually longing for this day, seeing it was not the experience I had hoped for. This is not to say that the movie per se is only bad.

TRoS spoilers ahead!

I am a sucker for “grounded” speculation and have difficulties to keep away from spoilers. And I’m really invested in Ben Solo’s fate. This led to me reading JediPaxis’ leaks weeks ago and hanging around on this site pretty much non-stop shortly before and since the premier of the movie. When the realization that Ben Solo actually dies (or does he?) kicked in, I went through some kind of mourning that included having difficulties to concentrate, the urge to cry, listening to sad music, and definitely crying a lot while watching a camrip of him finding happiness and then dying in a loop.

And maybe that’s one of the reasons why I couldn’t enjoy the actual movie more. I already knew the whole plot, had seen lots of gifs and had already kind of processed the emotionally challenging stuff, at least to some extent. So I just didn’t feel much, neither surprise, nor joy or grief while watching. Again, joke’s on me for getting myself extensively spoiled and reading about other people’s (negative) reaction to the movie. I didn’t even look forward to seeing it anymore, tbh.

My boyfriend on the other hand, who has seen TFA once and TLJ twice in his life and went into TRoS openmindedly after only a very short recapitulation of what had happened in the previous films, actually really liked it. He found it very entertaining, even surprising and well-made, especially the camera-work. He was all for Rey being a power women, for example when she prevented the transporter Chewie was presumably on from leaving by Force powers (Chewie then being on another transporter, not the one that got destroyed, was a cheap move and sort of a plot hole for him though). He generally sees the whole thing as an action adventure and advocates for not intellectually dissecting it or expecting too much depth out of a Star War. He likes the OT as a casual fan (he was the one to show me the original films in the first place), didn’t like the Prequels at all, was not a fan of TLJ and found TFA okay. We are going to watch TRoS again early in January with friends and he’s looking forward to it. So for him, episode IX is the best sequel film.

What I personally liked about TRoS:

- the very beginning - because Kylo and all the voices in his head, the nightmarish setting of the Sith temple as a representation of (mental) darkness, hopelessness and loneliness ...

- the overall feeling of the Pasaana festival (joy! color! coming together to celebrate!)

- the Poe and Zorri dialogue on Kimiji, because FINALLY a quiet and somewhat thoughtful moment AT LAST

- Finn and Jannah bonding over being former Stormtroopers being another somewhat quiet moment in the movie

- Ben seeing Han in memory actually made me feel SOMETHING

- the scenes of the last battle to end all battles (both Rey/Ben vs Palpatine and Resistance vs First Order) were sort of okay

- somewhat unexpectedly, I also really sympathized with Poe during some moments of the final battle

- the Rey and Ben Solo stuff after his final turn to the light was beautiful and heartbreaking (side note: I like to think that all the Jedi were talking to Ben too as he was rising/climbing from that pit)

- Kylo Ren / Ben Solo is already an icon, thanks to Adam Driver’s amazing acting skills and admireable dedication to this role. And that’s also true for TRoS.

- I actually liked the Resistance base scene after their victory, their immense relieve was so palpable

- the overall visuals of the movie are fine

What I did not enjoy:

- Everything felt so rushed. There’s too much happening in too little time, especially during the first half. The movie just doesn’t take any time to breathe, the effect being that you don’t really get into the story - the exact opposite of what the fast pacing was supposed to accomplish. Maybe less would have been more. Or the movie lasting for 15 minutes longer.

- Probably the worst thing: Most dialogues/lines, especially in the first half, are just super cringey ... TFA and TLJ dialogue never felt like this - or have I just gotten used to their text script over time? I have the small hope though that everything will sound better (at least to me) in English (we had to watch TRoS in German). Kylo Ren talking through his helmet was the worst in that regard, because Adam Driver’s voice is so distinct to me by now that the German voice-over felt 100% out of place and got me super irritated. It was downright painful.

- Very personal opinion: Upon closer look, both TFA and TLJ seem to be about Ben pretty much all the time, and I am all here for it. I did not get the same impression out of TRoS. But maybe that’s just a “recipient as co-creator of a story“ thing and I might be able to construct such a reading also for TRoS over time, after getting to know the movie better.

What really matters to me in the end:

- I am still invested in the character and story of Ben Solo. A movie (TRoS) made me mourn a fictional character, which IS something, even if said character was built to a great extent in previous movies.

- As said before, I enjoy theorizing, analyzing and the quest to better understand stories. And I just don’t want to be mad at the creators already. Ben’s death was painful, but I understand this pain as an invitation to delve deeper into all if it. If in the end the script and plot keep making little sense (which is a real possibility), I will keep to cherishing the parts I liked.

Conclusion:

Yes, I found TRoS very disappointing upon first watching, script-wise way below TFA and TLJ. Very likely it will always feel rushed and badly written to me. Maybe I'll like it even less after watching it again in about a week from now.

But, for the reasons mentioned above, I will probably still give it multiple (undeserved) chances. Because there certainly are good parts in it.

---

Kudos if you’re still here! And sorry for any language mistakes. Please comment, if you feel like it.

[starbluegalaxy]

POSITIVE REVIEWS FOR STAR BLUE

New Comments:

“Star Blue is such a beautiful light in this world. Star does so much for this community - it is astounding. Star, your energy brings such joy to my heart. Thank you for allowing me to sit in on sound for Edgy Open Mic tonight! You've created something truly powerful.” --Steph Chevalier

“Thank you, Star Blue, for being such a huge part of BREW’s Music Magic! You are a strong voice and advocate for equality and diversity and that includes supporting our woman owned business! 🔥❤️” --Alisse Leafy, co-owner of Brew

“We love Star Blue!” --Joshua Porter, owner of Whiskey Tip (home of Edgy Open Mic)

“You were so great! I’m really loving the energy and the direction your sound is going. Great vocals.” --Josh Windmiller

“Star has created something wonderful- a warm, welcoming environment [Edgy Open Mic] where a very diverse group of people can express themselves with their music, poetry, or comedy.” --Bob Sherrill, guitarist/singer

“Star Blue is doing more to diversify the music scene in Sonoma County than anyone I've seen in a long time. She is creating spaces for artists, some of whom may otherwise go unheard and/or marginalized. As well, her own music is an important radical voice.” --Christopher Bowers, singer/songwriter

“You are an admirable, sometimes fierce, advocate for the arts and I respect all the ways you are participating and encouraging a healthy dialogue.” --Sarah Songbird, The Real Sarahs

“You are a great force in our local music community and an amazing performer. Kudos Star! I need to buy a yuke!” --Jamie Voss, musician in Sad Party, The Spindles, The Nervous and, after these words, Star Blue Band!

Praise for Star Blue Band:

“EXCELLENT performance. Glad I got to finally see you and your 7 piece (and sometimes 8 piece) band all do your thing. Lots of beautiful instrumentalists all jamming out. Had a great time!” --Franco Tevini, stand-up comedian/emcee/promoter/Gentlemen Basterds improv troupe member

“You KILLLLLLED IT last night! Love Star Blue Band!” --Steph Chevalier, host of Tuesday Open Mic at Brew

“Star Blue! Thank you for the full band debut!!! Absolutely love the full band sound and your soul bearing songs!” --Omana Weeks of EveryDay Freak and Soulistar 

"Thank you for those kind words on Facebook yesterday. Love that we got to play music and contribute to your creation and music. Such an enjoyable experience!” --Paz Del Rescate, violinist, Star Blue and the Bolt Cutters, and Viva La Reve

Praise for Star Blue Band’s Effortless EP:

“Star's songs are like Zooey Deschanel meets Kathleen Hanna with catchy and clever takes on subjects like consent and chronic pain.” --Llano River Blue (my sister)

“I enjoyed my first listen to Star Blue Band's first official disk.  Great tunes and good quality sound. Super cool that you included lyrics and a download code!  I also like your CD cover photos. Nice bright colors and very smart that you reserved "All rights to be awesome" :-).” --Max Caruso

“I just want you to know how much I love your new Effortless EP. I have listened to it a bunch of times in the car and it sounds spectacular. At the moment my faves are Free to Be Frida, Bad Boy, and Riot Grrrls to the Front. Thanks so much for gifting it to us! I am especially impressed with how you moved from demoing a few little songs at a Christmas when you were beginning to play uke and into making an amazing ep with your band.” --Shasta Wallace (my godmother)

“My brilliant daughter is leaving footprints of diversity, liberation, authenticity, feminism. Her new CD, Effortless, comes from the soul. She is a powerhouse and I am so proud of her. She is a Riot Grrrrrrrrl!” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue (my mother)

“I love the way “Hold Me, I'm Cold” sounds with clarinet and violin added. The whole project sounds really good and I'm so glad everything fell into place to make it all happen.” --Nicco Weisskoff, drummer and sound engineer for the project

Praise for “Edgy Open Mic,” hosted by Star Blue:

“Thanks for letting us get weird, Edgy Open Mic.” --James Hubbard, comedian and musician

“Rad super inclusive fun mixed mic.” --Mike Whitaker, comedian and musician

“Star, thanks for making it work and squeezing me into Edgy Open Mic! The percussion instruments and sing along is a great touch too. Not your average open mic! You rock!” --Chris Newton, musician and music teacher

“Congrats to Star Blue, who celebrated the first anniversary of the super-fun, supportive Edgy Open Mic last night. Comics, if you haven't already, I highly recommend dropping in for a spot.” --Martin Marruffo, June 2019

“Really well crafted local variety show with a great crowd. An excellent member of the local entertainment scene & great place for newer performers to be seen. Thank you for ALL you do. #StarBlueRocks” --Tony Liberte 

"Thanks to Star Blue for building a safe space to create and share. Especially grateful to have a supportive community and so many new friends all inspiring one another. Here's to the arts!” --Lauren Anne

"The effort that goes into this event is incredible. Every one feels the love and gives love in return and it doesn't hurt that there are so many talented wonderful people there.” --Tika Moon 

“Star Blue is a great host, the crowd is warm and encouraging, and the performers are great too.” --B-Love

“Star has created something wonderful- a warm, welcoming environment where a very diverse group of people can express themselves with their music, poetry, or comedy.” --Bob Sherrill

“I do appreciate you being very cognizant about sign ups. You go out of your way to make sure everyone gets a slot and make the newbies feel welcome.” --Tika Moon, musician

“Had such a great time at @edgyopenmic on Thursday! @starblueonthescene has built such a supportive open mic. If you're a performer, do yourself a favor and check out this show!” --Martin Marruffo, comedian

“It’s refreshing to attend an event with some solid reliable and pleasant leadership!” --James Edmondsen, musician

“Edgy has been so amazing. You hold a killer space.” --Will Yarrington

“It's been an honor and a privilege playing at your [Edgy Open Mic] nights and I wanted to let you know how much it means to me to be given the opportunity to perform in front of an audience. I've felt my confidence growing from playing at your events.” --Julien Kareem Stricher

“Star Blue is the marvelous host of Edgy Open Mic every Thursday. Thankful to her for this invitation [to be the featured performer]. This was beyond delightful! My set ended with easily the best sing along of “What's Up” by the 4 Non-Blondes. Follow Star Blue on the Scene [on Facebook and Instagram] and stay up to date on the wonderful talent in Sonoma County. --Samantha Sipin, singer-songwriter from San Francisco

"This is an amazing place to hear great music and comedy and much more! Star is an amazing host, got to check this out!” --Sean Hilton

“Thanks for having us at your Mic. I had lots of fun. You're super cool. Keep being amazing!” --Hugo, stand-up comedian

“I wanted to thank you for the FABULOUS job you do on Thursday nights [at Edgy Open Mic]. It really is the highlight of my week! I have so much fun and I really enjoy the variety. You are a lively host and always know the right way to introduce someone. I love your smile and the way you make each person attending feel welcome and appreciated.” --Yuvonna

“Your open mic just felt right.  The energy, your respect of performers and their time, I was really impressed.  Since I became friends with you online, I see that you put a lot of effort in to celebrating diversity, which I absolutely respect and admire. I look forward to many more edgy open mics!”--Nick Machado, musician

“You two are amazing humans! Really. Thank you!” --Holden Rivera, to Star Blue and Paul Oneto (guest sound engineer of Edgy Open Mic for 8/30)

“Thank you for having us [as featured performers at Edgy Open Mic]! Great experience and such wonderful people.” --Robin Schaffner of Robin & Brad

“It is really fun!! I love how the community comes together and supports each other!!! It's hard to leave!!!!! Too many exclamation marks?” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue

“Well-run and a great space.” --Jenne Kaivo, poet

“Such an amazing debut night for this open mic! Will definitely be coming again!“ --WIll Yarrington

“Shout out to Jeremy Lessnau, Jeremy Wesler, Star Blue, and Nate Pena among others for providing the local scene with open-mics and gigs for performers to sharpen their skill at. . . Photo credit goes to Star Blue holding down the camera skills at the very exciting (first ever) Edgy Open Mic! A great way to close out my performance week.” --Franco Tevini, comedian

Praise for Star Blue on the Scene as organizer, emcee and curator of events:

“You do an amazing job of connecting community and sharing the space for all.” --Switchblade Jane, singer/songwriter/ukuleleist

“Star gives people a chance to shine and she shines herself.” --B-Love, hip-hop singer/songwriter

“Your cultural intelligence is raising the the cultural IQ of Sonoma County.” --Joe, a supporter at Edgy Open Mic

“You’ve helped breathe new life into the scene-- we appreciate you very much!” --Ben Perdition, front person for Stumbling For Miles (and sound engineer at Edgy Open Mic)

“Star Blue on the Scene not only works tirelessly to create a more open and inclusive music scene, but she'll grab you a glass of water if you look parched! Thanks, Star!” --Dan Martin, singer-songwriter, leader of Noma Rock Steady Band

“I’m so bummed I missed [Feminist Halloween Hangout at Brew, October 2018]. I was able to watch some on Facebook because you are so amazing and you shared it live. As our country divides more and more I feel so blessed to have the community together. I just want to share how grateful I am for all you do for the music and art community especially those underrepresented. You are a beacon of light! Thank you for continuing to support Brew and help us to keep a space for everyone. It means a lot to me and I hope you know that. Much love.” --Alisse Leafy, Brew owner and event booker

“You do a lot for the music community around here and you deserve the credit. You're always great to work with, you make it easy for us!“ --Part Time Poet

“Don’t back down. You're doing great. #leader” --Mitchel Slade of Two Lions

“Thank you so so much for helping local musicians! And for helping support Stumbling for Miles. It's hella fun working with you!!” --Nicholas Velasquez, drummer for Stumbling For Miles

“Thank you for all of the planning, promoting, organizing, and energy you put into everything you do. It inspires me to be around someone that works so hard and makes so much happen for the music community.” --Nicco Weisskoff, drummer/singer-songwriter/sound engineer/production assistant

“You are a gift to this community.” --Levi Smith, jazz musician and standup comedian

“We love working with you! Looking forward to working with you again soon!” --Alex Bruno, Refract

“I really appreciate your professionalism. You set such a good example for our music scene.” --David Gray of Aly Rose Trio

“Thank you, Star, for bringing music to Viva Mexicana. We love building community!” --Sima Afrakhan, owner

“You rock. Literally.” --Lori Nelson

“This was a wonderful show and was so lovely drawing while listening to such amazing local talent!” --Cameron Escobar-Shells on “Women Who Run With the Music,” who did live drawings of all the performers at the event (May 2018)

“The atmosphere and energy of the night was pretty inspiring as a whole; wonderful musicians/songwriters. Another great event, Star Blue.” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue on “Women Who Run With the Music” (May 2018)

“I’ve been sitting here reflecting on the upcoming Star Blue awesomely created show “Women Who Run With The Music” and wanted to give a huge shout out to Star Blue for her extraordinary talent at putting on unique, innovative shows, her fun, creative emceeing and eclectic musical brilliance, her warmly collaborative support of musicians, and all round sweet, kind-hearted nature. Thank you!” --Margo Perin, musical artist and writer

“What a beautiful, chill night. It had a warm feeling of family gathering, even though some of us were meeting some of them for the first time. Thank you, Star Blue, and all who joined to make it a success.” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue, on “Femme-inist Night at Brew” (May 2018)

“Great show tonight! I really liked your new songs. The coloring idea was great too! I was coloring my own things but it made for a really chill vibe.” --Cameron Escobar-Shells on “Femme-inist Night at Brew” (May 2018)

“You and Graham did a great job [as co-hosts of the first “Equal Opportunity Full Employment Open Mic Jam Session” at the Arlene Francis Center in April 2018]. To be honest I was a little skeptical of the format at first but it worked SO well and it was cool seeing and participating in so many acts!” --Cameron Escobar-Shells

"You have Star Quality when it comes to being a host/MC.  Excellent communication, humor, diction, expressions.  I can see you on TV doing that!  Keep on rockin!” --Jason Baldwin, music photographer 

“You put together an amazing program, did a great job MCing... you are poised and funny and really hold the room well.” --Jean Farmer, on “Sibling Singer Songwriter Showcase” (March 2018)

“Organizing shows can be a lot of work, but the rewards are so great. Getting people together to share their talents, creating memories and friendships. Your community is lucky to have you on their team. Good job! GO STAR!!!” --Violet Crabtree, on “Love Is Hard” (February 2018)

“Great show! I really enjoyed myself! It was a great mix of performers and you did great both as MC and performing! Keep up all the great things you are doing!” --Kurt Hoffman, musician (The Guide to Fast Living, Otto’s Revenge) and show organizer/promoter (Sonoma County Sampler), on “Femme Noir” (December 2017)

“I am sooo amazed at and proud of my riot grrrl, Star Blue. She created a powerful community event, bringing to the mic not only herself and her sizter, Llano River Blue, but two other sibling duos who are multi-talented. The energy was inspiring; the music was wonderfully diverse with an honesty and realness this new generation is offering the world. Phew, what a beautiful night!” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue

"Thank you so much for inviting us to play and for hosting the Star "micro-festival" with Hannah Werdmuller and The Syllables [within the Arlene Francis Center Open Mic] and kudos on handling a facepalm moment with the poise of a true role model. It is always a pleasure to hear you play, you sounded wonderful as always!” --Michael Fortunato of The Syllables and Buck-Thrifty 

“You make a great MC.” --Jill Minyé, musician, on “Femme Noir”

“You are continuing to inspire me and others in the community, thank you!” --Heather Skye, on “Sibling Singer Songwriter Showcase”

“An amazing event, thank you!” --Margo Perin, musician/writer, on “Sibling Singer Songwriter Showcase”

Here’s what people are saying about Star Blue and her art, music and performances:

“You were so great! I’m really loving the energy and the direction your sound is going. Great vocals.” --Josh Windmiller

You’re a great performer and your band has such a fun energy. Thanks for including me in your show, Star!!” --Natalie Vance, visual artist

“Your songs are so clever and witty and your vibe is so much fun!” --Jamie Tamboury

“You are a light in the f***ing darkness.” --Jenna Jae, poet/performer

“I was thrilled when @starblueonthescene agreed to emcee [my album release party] . . . but this just in...Star Blue will be sharing some songs with us starting at 7pm! Make sure to get there early to catch her set. Her songs are quirky at times and sometimes thoughtful reflections on humanity and social justice. Star has been a huge help in the planning and executing of this show. She has put on quite the list of events herself, producing several shows I’ve participated in. If Star Blue enjoys your music, you’ve made an ally and a friend. If you don’t know her, you should definitely come see her set at Bohemian Groove! 💗🌸🌼🌻 Thank you for all you do for our music community @starblueonthescene” --Clementine Darling, via Instagram

“Being one of the strongest female musicians as a fierce force in our local music scene you bring a lot of inspiration. “ --Arienette Smythe, musician/artist

“You are an empowering woman, Star, and I thank you!” --Heidi Corrine Kreklau

“Thank you for your graceful and sharpened skills in illustrating such complex and personal realities of pain realms, so widely misunderstood or not given any thought at all by many. You’re a divine force sister. I hope the world gets to experience everything Star Blue dreams to bring forward.” --Maya McNeil

“Got to see Star play awesome music, what fun! [She was] fantastic! Such a talent.” --Ma’ayan Simon 

“You were truly inspiring!” --Graham of The Syllables

“Star wakes people up with her honest, feisty and often humorous lyrics. She has become quite a storyteller.” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue

“I loved your songs...telling your true story... that is what singing is about from my point of view.” --Jean Farmer

“Love your Wonder Woman-ness!” --Karen Shook

“Why does this look like Sesame Street to me? (In a good way!)” --Stefan Aronsen, co-founder of Balanced Breakfast, on photos of Star Blue and Friends Band

“Your rhymes reminded me of Doctor Suess.” --Drew Gallagher, writer

“You’ve gone so far beyond the Ace of Base choreography.” -- Benjamin Jacobsen

“I love all the different outfits and hairstyles you present each time.” --Marty Roberts

“Irrepressible.” --Greg “Ceni” Ceniceroz, host of Hopmonk Sebastopol Open Mic

“Star Blue just keeps getting better and better. Blowing it up right now!” --Isabelle Garson, host of Open Mic Night at Brew

“She's witty, sweetly profane and priceless.” --Stanley Carlisle, musician

“Apparently very happy singer of songs that sound like merry melodies but carry a really dark story told as a delightful ditty. Quirky and indie as all hell with a girl next door look, assuming the girl next door is kinda like Wednesday from the Adam's family with a greaaaaat smile.” --Uncle David Barsky, radio DJ at KOWS

“Star Blue is a ukulele player who regaled us with some spoken word/poetry with comedic twists. Her humor reminded me of greats like Cathy Ladman or Rita Rudner but with more of an edge. Without question, it was captivating.” --Raymond Hoey, magician/emcee at Open Mic at Sirens, Sebastopol

“She has the gift of being able to speak her truth which enables us to speak ours.” --Deborah Phillips, mother of Katie Phillips (Bootleg Honey)

“What a wordsmith.” --Adam Kahn, Sonoma County Wellness Collective member, and emcee at Out of the Shadows: A Collection of Transformative Art’s Opening Night show

“You are such a badass.” --Bridget Gelato Wyckoff

“You have a comic element that is dark and sarcastic.” --Alexis Wilson, poet/artist extraordinaire

“I really like it in your performances when you have that pissed-off moment of getting angry, and you have a lot of them!” --Jessi Flagg, actor/activist

“You're my hero Star Blue! You're already Wonder Woman so it's perfect.” --Mindi Levine, radio DJ at 99.3 The Vine / musical artist

“I appreciate how you use your struggles in your work.” --Jeffrey Pearson, musician/artist/writer

“Thank you, Star Blue, for sharing your heart. It takes courage.” and “I like your wit.” --Kiana Leilani Anderson, solo performer

“Thanks for being a wonderful, beautiful powerful ukulele player. You make me smile and i always appreciate that! I am sure I am not alone in that. I REALLY appreciate eclectic music, meaning a broad range of music, which has as its most common characteristic a bravery of expression and unique stylings. You certainly have that.” --Eric Gregory, audience member at Brew Open Mic

“You have such great stage presence.” --Johanna Herron

“I loved your open mic set last night at Hopmonk, especially your incredibly current, powerful poem [”Disguised”] with its beautifully expressed loving uniting healing message!  Thank you!” --Tony Cohen, lawyer

“It’s kind of demented.” --Jimmy Cramer, guitarist/singer/songwriter

“That was unsettling.” --Jaemi Fortier, guitarist/singer/songwriter

“Thanks for being a wonderful, beautiful powerful ukulele player.” --Eric Gregory,  audience member at Brew Open Mic

“You have a really nice singing voice!” --Cameron Escobar-Shells

Praise for Star Blue as a fan grrrl:

“When I saw you onstage dancing, that made me play better, Star!” --Jason Berkman, drummer for Burnside the band

“It means the world to know that there are people like you who listen.” --Justyn Delbridge, bass guitarist for Charley Peach

“Thank you so much for coming out to support us and thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words!” --Charley Peach (band)

Praise for Star’s hip-hop performance art:

“You are a bona fide rockstar!” --Riis Larsen, The Arlene Francis Center

“Good job. I really love the rap and it had a cool 80s feel.” --Patrick Saindon, Eat the Fish Presents

“[ ‘I Don’t Want to Have to Write Another Tune’] was hilarious and so satisfying!” -- Jill Edwards Minyé

“You are fresh as heck.” --Cameron Escobar-Shells

“You busted out a 1980s keyboard and I was like, ‘this is the most ridiculously awesome thing ever.’ Well-played.” --Paz Del Rescate

Praise for Star’s stand-up comedy:

“Glad you came out tonight, always love seeing you get up.” --Jefferson Mars, host of Comedy Open Mic at Hopmonk Tavern Sebastopol

Praise for “Star Blue and Friends YouTube Channel,” “Star Blue on the Scene” and Star’s work as a documentarian:

"These [live photos] are so special!!! You have such a gift at photography as well!  Thank you so much for giving Refract the opportunity to rock the mic.  We had so much fun.” --Jamie Tamboury, lead singer of Refract

“Thank you so much for everything you do, and for the whole wonderful event last night [Feminist Halloween Hangout at Brew], and right now particularly for documenting on top of everything else you do. Because Kamal [her child] woke up sad that he fell asleep last night before the show and missed it and was SO happy he could still watch a video this morning!” --Lorelle Saxena, Sorry Not Sorry

“Your posts and badass music scene maneuvers bring me joy so constantly!” --Quiver Watts, Wayfairy

“Your encouragement has been really pivotal for me.” --Mook Jasper

“Star cares about people and their craft and stretches herself every day to be of support, especially in bringing under-represented or quiet individuals to be spotlighted.” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue (Star’s mother)

“Thank you for your ears, time, and support. It’s great to see how involved and fostering you are in our music community. We all appreciate you  Keep up the music with Two Blue too. We’ve got such a wonderful group of talented musicians!” --Jacob Benning, Viva La Reve

“Thank you so much for taking the time to collect tips for the comics. That was really nice and thoughtful. [The photos you took] are amazing!!!” --Greyson Gibson, comedian and host of “Belly Laugh”

“Star is an amazing person!” --Rachel Chuganey, musician and long-distance follower

“Star is awesome! She is passionate about the scene and thorough in her coverage!” --Riis Larsen of The Arlene Francis Center

“I wanted to say that your dedication to the local music scene is super admirable. I really hope to make one of your open mics soon.  Thank you for your efforts, art needs more people like yourself!” --Nick Machado, musician (The Hit System, Nick Machado & The Idle Bones)

 “Can we all take a moment to appreciate Star Blue? There are so many of us in the North Bay music scene who have been generously and selflessly supported, documented, and amplified by Star (EVERYONE who is interested in North Bay music should be following Star Blue on the Scene by now) that it's hard to believe she's just one person LET ALONE that she is also a multi-faceted performer herself (Star Blue Plays Music), AND runs the Edgy Open Mic, all while moving us towards equal representation in North Bay music by sparking much-needed conversations and leading the way in her own musical work. I hope that we can all acknowledge just how much of a vital cornerstone Star is to our community. I am so grateful for your friendship, your personhood, and also everything you do in this community.” --Hannah Werdmuller, Django Moves to Portland 

"Star Blue, you are a true rare and sparkling gem in our community. Thank you for your dedication, your encouragement, and for being YOU.” --Jeanna Collett, Burnside the band

“Thank you for your ears, time, and support. It’s great to see how involved and fostering you are in our music community. We al appreciate you  Keep up the music with Two Blue too.” --Jacob Benning, Viva La Reve

“Thanks for being a positive presence in the Sonoma county music scene!” --Lisa Stano

“Thanks for all you do to make our world a better place.” --Bernie Stephan, the climate change comedian

"Burnside is still on our lil’ jaunt across the US. Day 18, just left New Orleans, en route to Austin area. Home midweek. I/we appreciate you, ongoingly! Hope to see you soon enough!” --Jason Berkman, drummer for Burnside the band

"You are soo active in music its just inspirational!” --Jay Spray, In Autumn band

“I’m more than happy to get the word out about the shows you are hosting. You’ve introduced me to a lot of our finest local talent!” --Ed Mills, radio host of Steady Eddie’s Music Cellar on KGGV.fm

“Thank you for capturing this wonderful moment! What an amazing show!” --Wind Gap Wines, on Caitlin Gowdey and the Rainbow Girls at their venue

Thanks for the pics, Star Blue, and for perpetually having your finger on the pulse!” --Evan Wiig, Burnside the Band

“Thank you for including ENegative! What you’re doing is so great for the local music community and I’m honored to be on your [YouTube] playlist!” --Elizabeth Wolfe, eNegative

“I love that video you posted of us from High St.!!! Thanks for recording local live music, I really appreciate it.” --Andros Howes of Burnside the band

“Love the new look [of the YouTube page]!” --Graham, The Syllables

“You are like our eternally young fairy godmother!” --Mindi Levine, singer/songwriter, radio DJ (The Vine in Napa), drummer (Ohmygodyouguys)

“I think you're doing something really important by documenting what’s happening in our local music community with your videos and pictures.” --Edward Mills, radio DJ (KGGV in Guerneville)

"Creatives have always needed the public to advocate for our work and especially in this day and age of social media, where an online presence is of the utmost importance. Star Blue effectively provides creatives with highly usable material for anyone's online EPK and is necessary for our continued presence.” --Taylor Cuffie, very prolific drummer in Sharkmouth, Buck-Thrifty, The Crux, Eki Shola, etc.

“Star filmed my band's final show, staying at the venue later than expected and hitching a ride home with strangers just to jump at the opportunity to document our last moments as a band. Her flexibility, spontaneity and dedication to her craft are are outweighed only by her sheer talent, and clear comfort behind a camera. I urge you to work with Star if you have the option, as she is incredibly easy to work with, and her hard work will not disappoint.” --Nik Clay, musician (Larksburg, Twink Park), video editor and filmmaker

“Awesome. I am so happy to see so many dedicated musicians who can turn off the electronics and connect with others in such fashion. Bravo! You are using electronics to connect in a live setting. I do the exact same & you and I play music too! You are not sitting at home using them but helping further our cause!!! YASSSSS!” --Joshua Bluegreen-Cripps

“It has been super awesome and inspiring to see how quickly you attacked the scene these last few months. Your tenacity is showing! Keep up all that you do. Don't lose this momentum!” --Be Wilson, clown

“Follow Star on YouTube! She is documenting a lot of North Bay music!” --Josh Windmiller of North Bay Hootenanny, Second Octave, The Crux, Railroad Square Music Festival (and formerly of Santa Rosa High School Advanced ArtQuest Drama and SRHS Drama Club with Star Blue!)

“Thanks for taking all the great photos at the [Balanced Breakfast] meeting this morning.” --Jill Edwards Minyé, jazz pianist and Balanced Breakfast group member

“Has anyone told you today that you’re awesome? You’re awesome.” --Jeffery Buletti, Flat, Broke and Busted singer/songwriter

“Le boost, Star's videos are legit.” --Jay Drapes, Buck-Thrifty

“Huge thanks to Star Blue for making this video!--and, truly, for all the dedicated work she's done documenting our local open mic tribe. if you haven't already, subscribe to her YouTube channel for more Sonoma County awesomeness.” --The Syllables

“Special thanks to the ever awesome Star Blue for shooting and documenting not only some of my performances, but so many other amazingly talented Sonoma County open mic-ers! If you like great local music, you should totally subscribe to her Youtube Channel!” --Cameron Escobar-Shells, musician/artist

“That was super awesome of you! Thanks for sharing this and have a great weekend!!” --Kevin Borges, drummer in eNegative, responding to a video playlist of local live music

“I was just looking at the picture you have in your request for people to subscribe, its so like "Imma hella subscribin' to this chick’s channel!" Superhero + ice cream? Can't go wrong!” --Eric Gregory

“You just seem very sincere and enthusiastic about the scene! I am stoked to know ya.” --Dante Carlozzi, spoken word and performance artist

“This was my act at North Bay Cabaret Explains It All last month, now beautifully recorded at the Capistrano house venue. Big ups to Star Blue for putting this together, I think it looks fantastic.” --Dante Carlozzi, on the video that Star recorded and edited of his “Fight Club is Gay Club” monologue (What he said to me personally was “Dude I looooooove this. Is this public and all that? I wanna share it. Excellent work, I seriously love it.”)

Praise for Star’s work as an activist and sharer of resources:

“This is wonderful! Thank you, Star! I'm honored and flattered [to be included]. This site you've made [https://scwemakemusictoo.tumblr.com] is invaluable to the community, and to all the non male participants and artists. I'm grateful you've taken the initiative to produce this. Major high fives!!!” --Callie Watts, musician (solo and with The Big Fit)

“Thank you for reaching out. You’ve inspired me and filled me with ambition.” --Julioso Blue (no relation)

“Thanks for compiling this list [of open mic nights in Sonoma County]! Well done.” --Greg “Ceni” Ceniceroz, host of Hopmonk Sebastopol Open Mic

“I was just thinking about how I wanted this list to exist last night! Awesomeness. Thanks Star!” --Paul Oneto

This rocks! And so do you, SisStar! May the Greater bless your sharing soul.” --Robert Joseph, host of Open Mic with RoJo and SoJo at Red Brick

Praise for Star Blue as a radio performer:

“As a former voiceover actress, I gotta say you are a natural on the radio! Thank you for the shout out and I enjoyed tuning in and listening to you.” --Heather Skye

“We heard the show and it was great, informative, interesting, fun and felt the chemistry between you.” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue

“Caught your show [with Minkoff Chatoy on KOWS Radio] and enjoyed it a lot!” --Paul Draper

“It was so neat hearing you on air, Star!” --Brendan Draper Swift

“I listened to almost the whole thing - very interesting!” --Marty Roberts

Praise for Star Blue as a visual artist of promotional posters:

“The poster is amazing!!” --Calen Draper Swift

“Great poster.” --Glenn Sauber, The Tahoes

“Yes!!! Love this flyer. So good. You have good design skills.” --Violet Crabtree

“I love how this vibrant flier shows what bands are "booked" for the night!!” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue

“You are amazing!” --Marty Robert

Praise for Two Blue:

“You two were amazing!” --AJ Mandeville

“Amazing.” --Timothy O’Neil, Timothy O’Neil Band

“You are a creating, producing and artistic inspiration! Yes! I love your family and watching you perform together.” --Mandy Brooks, Small Hat and North Bay Women in Music Collective

“The family that plays music together.... how wonderful!” --Jean Farmer

“Amazing show tonight and your parents rocked, too. Happy to see you performing, Star.” --Heather Skye

"That was amazing. Just glad I caught it [through Facebook Live].” --Morgan Pendergast

“Great set, Star and Two Blue! Great job to Marke as well. I love that version of "I Wish I was the Moon Tonight." --Kurt Hoffman, The Guide to Fast Living

“So awesome! Glad I didn’t miss it!” --Omana Weeks, Everyday Freak and Soulistar

“I love it! Makes my heart happy.” --Shauna Walvatne

Praise for Star Blue and the Sea Shells musical duo:

"Really fun! You guys are awesome!” --Bethany Cremer

“You two were amazing and so great together!” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue (Star’s mom)

Praise for Star Blue’s first music video for “Wish I Could Run Back to the Past”:“

“Well done and heavy....sad and creative.” --Marty Roberts

“Imaginative, powerful, and visually entrancing.” --Cameron Escobar-Shells

“Effectively disarming and emotional.” --Llano River Blue

“Great work. Powerful imagery and song. 90 seconds is just a tiny taste.” --Alabama Blaikie

“Exceptional!!!” --Jason Baldwin

“Awesome. It was short, but totally absorbing, and a little sad but so honest.” --Amy LaVay Jahn

“Totally absorbing, a little sad, tragic-comic, beautifully done.” --Patrick Bludworth

“Amazingly fresh!” --Shasta Wallace

“I love your video. Your honesty and vulnerability and the strength it takes to let us see your pain slays me. The imagery speaks loudly- from the cupcakes to the red paint climbing up your legs and covering your body. Thank you for sharing your music, your film, yourself with us. And I love your outfits.” --Jill Edwards Minyé 

“You are such an incredibly brave, amazing, talented young woman. I love your video. I watched it. then I had to watch it full screen. Then watched it again to make sure I didn't miss a second of your incredibly expressive current of thought that went into it. I cant put into words what it made me see and feel while and after watching it. Awesome, so proud of my beautiful niece.” --Esther Hamrick

ADVANCE PRAISE FOR STAR BLUE’S MUSIC VIDEO FOR HER ORIGINAL SONG “WISH I COULD RUN BACK TO THE PAST”

"I listened to the song and loved it! All the auxillary percussion and stuff was really neat, and I think your vocal performance fits the tone of the video excellently!” --Nik Clay, musician/filmmaker

“This sounds awesome! The bass compliments the ukulele really well, and I love the lyrics. Excited to see what you have in mind for the video!” --Cameron Escobar-Shells, musician/artist

“You look great in this pic! There is a Xmas pic of your whole family from Xmas many years ago still up on our fridge! --how cool is that?” --Paul Stickcat, musician/artist

PRAISE FOR “HOMELESS PEOPLE ARE MY HOMIES” COMIX

“I have my very own copy of this comic and I would like your autograph!!! This is a refreshing outlet that depicts a facet of a subculture...and it makes me giggle.” --Alexis Wilson, artist/poet extraordinaire

“I am coloring in my comic book. I love the realness that offers a window into the homeless community, one which I found to be thoughtful, caring, protective of each other, supportive, and often really smart! Thank you Star Blue! I know I am biased but YOU ROCK!” --Maria Gonzalez-Blue, expressive arts therapist/Star’s mama

“I just checked out your cool book on the homeless. You are really talented. Keep doing Art.” --Nancy Bercu