Strings by the Sound
Lunch Break, Volume Up
Ruston Way was busy as usual when a fresh voice broke through the usual hum of passing cars. It was John, an artist filled with excitement but with a sense of experience, tuning his guitar beneath the warm spring sun.
His first busking performance? No one would have known.
John played two original songs, each one a reflection of his heart. They were catchy, personal, and filled with a raw energy that carried over the city's sound. Heads turned; curious glances among families out for a stroll, and the common runner and biker. Who was this guy? People play music here?
“It was the perfect scene to stop you and say, stop, rest for a second, take it all in.”
The Puget Sound served as a stunning backdrop, adding to the beauty of the moment. And there was John, guitar in hand, belting out lyrics that felt both intimate and expansive. I especially connected with his second song, “On and on,” which he wrote only a week ago. The lyrics encourage not to sit idly by anymore and to get off that couch. A coincidence to the moment.
His dynamism was infectious; people stopped in their tracks to listen, and some even pulled out their phones to capture the scene. And after all that, the train came by right at the end of the performance, almost as if it waited for him to finish.
We also had someone stick around for the entire event, and they're a big supporter of our local music scene. They made sure to tell John they loved the performance. It was encouraging and showed people are genuinely interested in building up our community.
In front of Woven and on the edge of the sidewalk, this location was so different from the common busking spot. It was the perfect scene to stop you and say, “stop, rest for a second, take it all in.” A common reminder we all need in our busy day-to-day lives. The energy he brought to that sidewalk felt like a promise of future performances to come. John used to be in a band and has been performing in the area for years, he's currently looking for bandmates.
Reach out and give him a follow @we_balo
So, what would you do if you heard a vibrant guitar and a belting voice? Want to catch the next one?
Stay updated on @tacoma_wa for the latest happenings and join us in celebrating the best parts of our city.
For his full performance, check it out here!
