Some of you may recall me instagraming like crazy on a Wednesday evening in July. The photos were of amazing chandeliers, tons of people and instruments.
What went on that night? Playground did. And the video is finally out.
We were told to meet at a certain time on a certain day where a bus would take us to a mystery location. I got about 10x more excited than I look in this picture when I realized our mystery location was the abandoned railyards down the street from our house. The perfect, most beautiful venue in the city that’s only just recently opened it’s doors to events like this.
Upon arrival we were loaded up with free beer and asked what musical experience we had (if any). I said I would like to sing, but as soon as I mentioned I played the organ I was plunked down in front of one alongside local musician Vince Vaccaro.
I can’t lie. I was a little disappointed to be stuck with the organ at first. I mean, I never chose to learn how to play this instrument. When I was a kid and told my parents I wanted to play piano, they bought an organ at a church auction thinking it was the same thing. I spent years begrudgingly taking lessons, then learning piano music in my own free time just in case I ever got one. (yes, I do have one now and sold the organ long ago).
This evening made me appreciate the organ in a whole new way. This Hammond organ, attached with a Leslie, commands your attention. It’s a gorgeous piece of work and I was so excited and honoured to contribute to the evening through its beautiful sound.
I can’t put into words the beauty of that night. With the exception of 4 people, I knew no one there. We were all strangers with one goal – to create music. Local motown band, The Chanterelles, guided us as they taught us the music piece by piece. But here’s the thing – aside from the band no one knew the song. We came together as strangers, and together created an experience like no other. There’s something almost spiritual about creating music with a group of people, especially in a setting like this.
The below video is a live recording with just a few hours of learning and practising. The result is nothing short of beautiful.

(Can you spot me? First shot is almost halfway through. Hint – look for the girl with the sideways ponytail rocking out the organ).
Can we just talk for a minute about Chase? The lead singer of The Chanterelles is, hands down, one of the most amazing singers I have ever heard. I get chills every time I listen to that girl. Her voice is of another era – a modern Etta James or Ella Fitzgerald – perfectly suited to this soulful Motown music.

Thank you Playground for coming to town, and for such a beautiful experience! Seriously one of the most creative and inspiring nights of my life.