Appreciation.  Admiration.  Inspiration.  Those are the words that come to my mind after seeing Melissa Etheridge at Stir Cove on Thursday night.  It’s not just her mind-blowing talent; it’s her spirit and her energy that are just as impressive.

For over 2 hours she rocked out, she bantered with the crowd, and shared her life stories.  Melissa is a Midwest girl and her sincerity and unpretentious aura permeated the evening.

In a twenty plus year career, she has amassed a host of Grammy nominations, winning two, and an Oscar for Best Original song from the documentary ‘An Inconvenient Truth’.  Etheridge is a seven-year breast cancer survivor, and an activist for innumerable causes.

Thursday night the music was loud, proud and strong.  She is one heck of a musician and songwriter and she sings with guts and emotion.  Fan favorites, such as “Come to My Window” and “I’m the Only One” were splintered throughout her performance and the crowd sang right along.  You cannot help but be moved by her plucky vocals and if you just listen to her words, there is a message or a meaning tucked into each melody.

Etheridge is supported – not carried – by three very talented musicians.  They enhance the sound but make no mistake; she is the lead, the star, the icon – and a fun, friendly and passionate one at that.

The crowd was enthusiastic and receptive.  Although predominantly female, there were scads of males tapping their toes and getting their groove on.  When you are amongst talent such as Miss Etheridge produces, to stay in your seat would be a crime, and to my delight, nearly everyone was on their feet for a majority of the evening.  I will put this performance near the top of my favorites list!

Well – the Snoop is coming back!  Snoop Dogg was such a hit last year and I had a great time despite myself!  I can’t wait to see what he kicks up this year!  If you don’t have tickets, don’t forget to visit www.stircove.com and get them quickly.  He sold out last year – don’t be left on the outside next Thursday!