At the end of 2008, in the midst of an intense economic recession, Jess Yoakum made the risky decision to leave her day job and follow her musical passion. She set out from her hometown of Boston, MA on a 2-month long national house concert and coffeehouse tour.
Traveling by Greyhound bus, Yoakum found herself in places off the traditional tour routes, including the homes of friends and family throughout the country. "I originally dreamed up the idea of traveling by bus and visiting friends and family 'a la Eurail pass' before I even knew such an option existed in the States through Greyhound! Then, when I sent out my email about the idea, I was overcome when within one hour, six people had already written back to confirm dates in their homes all over the country!"
The concept of house concerts was inspired by the work of Fran Snyder, founder of Concerts in Your Home who writes, "It's increasingly challenging for touring performers to draw audiences to clubs, and more difficult still to connect with these audiences in a meaningful way. For acoustic performers especially, most venues offer too many distractions (televisions, loud conversations, etc.), and are far too reliant on alcohol sales and a "Top 40" atmosphere."
Yoakum's style, described as "Patty Griffin joined forces with the Sundays" Coffehouse Tour, Heather Corcoran, is indeed best suited to intimate venues and listening rooms. IMG Music Promotions says, "Yoakum's vocals transcend genre while pulling the listener in with uncommon tones and flavors. Lyrically refreshing, she hooks the listener with thoughts and ideas not often found in today's mainstream music..."
While on tour, Yoakum felt called to leave Boston permanently and has now settled in Chicago, IL. Of the move Yoakum says, "The music community here has been so inspiring and breathed new life into me! I'm particularly grateful to Kat Fitzgerald and the folks I've met at Uncommon Ground who've graciously supported and promoted my music and welcomed me with open arms!"
Yoakum has begun to tour regularly around the midwest, singing songs from her debut album as well as her much anticipated sophomore album. Cellist, Ira Ochs, now accompanies her for most performances.
