Josee McGee
Josee is a long time friend of the studio and is herself a longtime supporter of the Akron/Canton writers scene. She manages the Muggwiggz Open Mic night and the North Canton Main Street Festival music. Besides that, she’s a professional musician and can be found playing out nightly all over our region.
—Photo by James Cooper
Line Crossing Stories
Talk about your experience at Realgrey, what has it meant to you?
Realgrey has cultivated motivation within me from the moment I discovered it, 5 years ago. I have written so many songs knowing that there is a community through Realgrey to share them with. Instantly I was compelled to tell every songwriter I crossed paths with about their BYS events and recording space. Still, I light up with joy spreading the news of Realgrey Records. I honor the bridge that has stood for years between open mic night in Downtown Canton and the studio. I love revealing that path to the talent that I’ve hosted each week for over 4 years. The networking between these locations has procured opportunity after opportunity, and has secured beautiful friendships.
How would you describe the ethos ... experience ... purpose of the studio?
Ethos: Community and quality above all. Family and professionalism can exist in harmony. Experience: Your music, your art matters. Money is a factor, but Realgrey isn’t going to let it stand in the way of your dreams. Purpose: Make connections with likeminded people, get the job done people.
Has the studio influenced your music in any way? If so, how?
Realgrey has given me a community and an audience- folks who listen and appreciate music for all of its depth. And I love writing music with complicated movements, meaningful messages, and intricate harmony. It’s because of Realgrey Records that I have an album to share with the world. Ron took a chance on me. He recognized the meaning of music in my life and the impact of my music on others and maintained focus on the art-even in the midst of a pandemic. It is thanks to his heart and generosity that my album, “Tree Rings,” exists.
Talk about the people that you've encountered at Realgrey ... what has your experience been w/ us?
Kind, generous, supportive, deep, encouraging, curious. Everyone I’ve met through Realgrey has all of these features. They care about your projects, your life, and your goals. John Tummel- he has supported me through attending multiple shows, buying my CD, sharing my music online, partaking in my open mic night, being my guest host in times of need, taking on performances when I have gig conflicts, and shows genuine interest in my journey. A down to earth human being who is introspective and creates beautiful, beautiful music.
