Montana. Big Sky Country. A land that that is large, elemental, and untamed. It is a place where personalities and dreams are large. Underground radio stations? No. A supportive community of musicians? No. No, just lots of space to realize your dreams. On this windswept stage, a dream took hold, was nourished, and began to blossom. With the help of a cheap acoustic, Heart’s ‘Dreamboat Annie’ songbook, and loads of determination, Deb began the journey to find her voice.

Some lessons, practice, more practice, a move to the Chicago area, life in general, and in particular an exposure to the rich Chicago music scene unleashed a Deb that none had ever seen-- and that few would have guessed existed. (A recent conversation with her brother revealed the presence of Big Brother and the Holding Companies’ “Live at the Fillmore East” in the house during her formative years on the ranch…Janis Joplin live and raw…somehow we’re not surprised.-M.H.)

Fast forward to 1996. A rainy day on the Southside: A living room, some friends, an acoustic, a request. The request was for “Bobby McGee.” Gone were Joni Mitchell and Janis Ian. Present were Anne Wilson and Big Momma Thornton, with a big dash of Janis thrown in.

The rest has been a treat to Chicago area blues fans—Guest appearances at Buddy Guys’ Legends, House of blues, and countless hours spent on stage have honed Deb’s craft. For those of you who haven’t yet had a taste of this musical treat, take Janis’ advise and “Get it while you can”….. M.H.