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GRAMMYs

The Elwins' Matthew Sweeney

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Quarantine Diaries: The Elwins' Matthew Sweeney Is Watching "RuPaul’s Drag Race" & Jamming In A Van

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As the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, the Recording Academy reached out to a few musicians to see how they were spending their days indoors
GRAMMYs
May 6, 2020 - 11:51 am

As the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, the Recording Academy reached out to a few musicians to see how they were spending their days indoors. Today, Matthew Sweeney of Canadian indie-rock outfit The Elwins shares his Quarantine Diary

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[10:30 a.m] Quarantine has done a number on my sleep schedule, but I actually managed to wake up at a fairly decent time today. Most days time is just a construct and I haven’t even glanced at a clock until it’s 4 a.m. and the sun is rising, but today we are t h r i v i n g. I have been in Kingston, O.N., Canada, during the pandemic. I was supposed to be on an American tour this month, but ya’ll know what happened with that. I kicked off the morning with a beautiful (all-American) Krispy Kreme House Roast Keurig K-cup coffee as the next best thing. 

[12:00 p.m.] Time flies when you’re shakin’ trees, fishin’ for Red Snappers, and working on the feng shui of your "Animal Crossing" dream home. Today I bought the Top Pop Hairstyles and a new color pack with my Nook Miles, things are really shaping up around here! Feeling like I’m on a spiritual journey of self-expression, but turns out I’m just another millennial in quarantine. Nevertheless, hit me up if your turnip prices are over 400 Bells. 

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[1:00 p.m.] I’ve been really trying to play and write more music while I have the chance. It’s a slippery slope though, I can put a lot of pressure on myself to do it and then it doesn’t feel fun, so then I don’t do it and procrastinate until I feel guilty. Rinse and repeat over and over. I’ve found talking with my bandmates and setting deadlines has been a good way to make it more fun and exciting. Right now, I’m working on a song with our drummer Travis. He sent me a guitar part that I’m working on writing over. As sh*tty as it is having this pandemic, it has been interesting to see the creative practices that come out of having such rigid limitations. 

[4:00 p.m.] I have a livestream today at 5:00 p.m. with Jam In The Van. They are doing a fundraiser for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. I worked on a set list and practiced a bit before. I wanted to do it somewhere quiet, so I took the van for a drive and found a spot by the water to set up. 

[6:00 p.m.] After the livestream, I went for a walk at a conservation area close by. Being outside has really helped with my anxiety lately.  We love a nice golden hour stroll amongst the trees, don’t we?? 

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[7:30 p.m.] After dinner, I went for a walk around the block to admire the sunset. There’s something really cozy about the fact that everybody is home right now. The neighbourhood is lit with the orange glow of full houses. There’s comfort in remembering that we’re all going through this together. 

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[9:00 p.m.] One of my favorite quarantine pastimes is consuming copious amounts of reality TV.  Tonight’s first course is a little "RuPaul’s Drag Race," followed by a main course of "The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart," then capped off with a sweet dessert of "90 Day Fiance: Before The 90 Days." If you’re not watching these shows, you’re probably doing better than me, and that’s okay. 

[12:00 a.m.] My alarm goes off to remind me that I have a bedtime. I get a little sidetracked trying to make my cat a TikTok star. Now I’m off to bed to dream about Tom Nook upgrading my home to a two-story. 

If you wish to support our efforts to assist music professionals in need, learn more about the Recording Academy's and MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund.

If you are a member of the music industry in need of assistance, visit the MusiCares website.

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Lisa Loeb

Photo courtesy of Lisa Loeb

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Quarantine Diaries: Lisa Loeb Is Celebrating 25 Years Of "Stay (I Missed You)" & Watching "RuPaul's Drag Race"

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The GRAMMY-winning '90s mainstay is also releasing a new music video featuring Michelle Branch, "Doesn't It Feel Good"
GRAMMYs
Sep 23, 2020 - 8:22 am

As the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com reached out to a few musicians to see how they were spending their days indoors. Today, GRAMMY-winning indie-pop/rock favorite Lisa Loeb shares her Quarantine Diary. Lisa Loeb's latest studio album A Simple Trick To Happiness is out now. Watch Lisa's new video, "Doesn't It Feel Good" featuring Michelle Branch and directed by Jessa Zapor-Gray, exclusively on GRAMMY.com below. 

[7:00 a.m.] I start off the day early before the kids get up, to feed my 19-year-old diabetic Tortie cat and give her insulin, drink a strong coffee (Lisa Loeb Wake Up! blend, of course, perfect flavor and strong with milk and sugar), Ezekiel Bread toast with almond butter and super fruit jelly, and a walk outside before the day begins. The sun shines pink through the window at the top of the stairs at my house in Los Angeles. You can see the sunscreen on my nose, because it’s early and I always wear my sunscreen, but was probably too tired to notice I didn’t finish blending.

[7:45 a.m.] I make the kids breakfast, something like bagels or pancakes, fruit, bacon, yogurt, and hope that they eat it before they get into their virtual classes.

[9:30 a.m.] while my 8-year-old, Emet, has a break, I take a tap class—distanced, in the back yard, with masks. I love walking, dance classes and strength training, most of which is happening online, but I finally moved the tap class into the back patio with a couple of like-minded moms. Connecting with humans, safely, set to music, really lightens things up. 

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[1:00 p.m.] After I make lunch, the kids go back to their virtual school. I stay in earshot of my son while trying to scoot into my office to answer a million emails and stay on top of the myriad projects I have going on: a new family friendly children's album, new songs for a new grown-up album, voice-over auditions, fan club vinyl signing of my 25th anniversary no. 1 song, "Stay (I Missed You)," which was also GRAMMY-nominated!

[4:00 p.m.] Later, after the kids are done with their school, I change clothes, turn on the bright lights, set up the gear, and start pre-recording events and concerts. There are so many virtual events happening all over the country: from voting events to women’s cancer and lupus, I’m honored to play all of them, and people have been reaching out to musicians a lot. Sometimes the events are live, but often they’re prerecorded, so I’ve become a pro with lighting, makeup, hair and audio, and really trying to get our wi-fi up to speed—literally. 

Sometimes I have fan club events online, watch-alongs, or live concerts, including two concerts in which I’ll be playing my entire Tails album acoustically on Sept. 26 on the LoopedLive app, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its release. Here I am pre-recording a TV appearance for a Ziggy Marley duet that will air on the Kelly Clarkson show, then I’ll finish up with an appearance for a Hallmark special to honor Hero Dogs. 

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There’s usually a number of Cameo shout-out requests that have come in at this point for birthdays, anniversaries, or just uplifting message, and I try to squeeze them in before I make dinner for the kids. Or if I’m smart, order in Thai food!

[7:30 p.m.] After dinner, Emet watches part of an Avengers movie with my husband, Roey. I cuddle with my daughter, Lyla and our aforementioned cat, Sweetie McGee, while we eat ice cream with chocolate chips and watch "RuPaul’s Drag Race." 

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[8:30 p.m.] Then it’s up to bed to brush teeth, get in the PJs and read with each kid, if it’s not too late, and then time to finish up some work, clean the kitchen and get in bed to read. I’m an avid reader, and during the distancing orders, I’ve been able to read more than ever. Then, time for sleep, and to set the alarm for the next day to see what it will bring.

Making Heads Or 'Tails' Of Success: Lisa Loeb Celebrates 25 Years Of Her Major-Label Debut Album

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Ruston Kelly

Photo by Alexa King

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Quarantine Diaries: Ruston Kelly Is Listening To Perfume Genius & Playing Nintendo

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As the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com reached out to a few musicians to see how they were spending their days indoors
GRAMMYs
Aug 20, 2020 - 11:00 am

As the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com reached out to a few musicians to see how they were spending their days indoors. Today, singer/songwriter Ruston Kelly shares his Quarantine Diary. Ruston Kelly's new album Shape & Destroy drops on Aug. 28.

I get up relatively early and go for a run. I try and get 10,000 steps before breakfast because it helps with the claustrophobic depression, anxiety, lack of motivation and a general sense of social abandonment. Just go in for the kill the moment you wake up.

I then eat breakfast. Kind of boring. Healthy bland oatmeal but I get charged and then start writing or running through songs. I set up a mini-performance situation to at least feel somewhat close to an actual stage. 

GRAMMYs

Ok, I then eat lunch which is also boring. Then I drive aimlessly for a while listening to *very* heavy metal or Perfume Genius. I allow for some random activity to happen if there isn't any specific work to be done. I bought a house recently so I kind of shop for furniture.

I lament past mistakes but then try and make sense of why I did this or that and ultimately better myself because of it. I do not let obsessive or anxious thoughts last long. I'm working on that. 

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I make food with a friend or alone which is less boring than breakfast and lunch and then I either read or play Nintendo with a friend before I listen to more Perfume Genius in bed and I go to sleep believing tomorrow will be better and the next day and the next.

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Read More: Perfume Genius' Outer Space Magic

If you wish to support our efforts to assist music professionals in need, learn more about the Recording Academy's and MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund.

If you are a member of the music industry in need of assistance, visit the MusiCares website.

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Rosehardt & Lauren Ruth Ward

Rosehardt & Lauren Ruth Ward

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Quarantine Diaries: Rosehardt Is Playing His New Piano & Lauren Ruth Ward Is Dancing To Emo Music

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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com reached out to musicians to see how they were spending their days off the road
GRAMMYs
Nov 19, 2020 - 1:08 pm

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com reached out to a few musicians to see how they were spending their days indoors. Today, we have a special bi-costal edition, with Brooklyn-based Rosehardt and Los Angeles-based Lauren Ruth Ward, two artists featured in Dr. Martens Presents: Music & Film Series, sharing their Quarantine Diaries.

Rosehardt & Lauren Ruth Ward

Rosehardt, Brooklyn

[8:45 a.m.] On occasion, I'll wake up and my hair will be shampoo commercial voluminous. I don't try and explain it, I just show gratitude by continuing to care for it like my mama taught me.

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[9:30 a.m.] We made cold-seared salmon last night. Hella tasty. I put the leftovers into an omelet. Also hella tasty. Additionally, if one can have toast with jam with breakfast, and one can also have toast with peanut butter with breakfast, then logically one can have a PB&J with breakfast. Don't @ me.

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[12 p.m.] Today was a very special day.

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[12:05 p.m.] A very, very special day.

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[12:45 p.m.] Not only did the American people make the right choice at the voting booths, but I became the proud owner of this gorgeous piano. It was given to me by the sweetest woman from Craigslist (!!!).

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[1 p.m.] Seriously, if you want a piano and have room, peruse the free section on CL, you'd be surprised. I was so tremendously fortunate to not only find this piano in amazing shape, but I couldn't have asked for a better CL experience. Her only stipulation was that it went to someone who would put it to use and das me. Thank you, Julia from Craigslist.

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[1:30 p.m.] This is my cat Ishmael. I don't usually let him in the studio but I was feeling gracious and he was meowing incessantly.

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[4:45 p.m.] This is Alex, the mysterious piano tuner my roommate recommended who not only does a great job tuning, but always obliges when asked to play a little when he's finished. I really wish you could hear this photo.

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[5 p.m.] I plunked around on the beauty for a minute and now it's loaf time. Ish loves loaf time. We all love loaf time.

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Lauren Ruth Ward, Los Angeles

[8 a.m.] Wake up and caffeinate. We have an espresso machine with a milk steamer, the whole shebang.

[8:15 a.m.] Check in. Look at my calendar and make sure my schedule is realistic. My friend Emma and I call ourselves The Over-Committers Committee (lol). I drink my coffee on my porch, sometimes journal and send out confirmation texts to hair clients and anyone I have plans with.

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[8:30 a.m.] I pull myself away from my phone—I have a timer on my social apps to keep me from mindlessly scrolling! Depending on the day, I will do Patreon duties, Pullstring Vintage work or merch fulfillment. All of these are truly exciting and inspiring.

On Patreon, I post behind-the-scenes videos, and photos on my private Instagram. I also chat with fans about their week and if they relate to what I've shared. This kind of connection with them has kept me sane. I also get to "see" two of my Patron tiers monthly on a Zoom hang. I also spend this time prepping monthly mail-out incentives.

Pullstring Vintage is my new baby! After a buying trip, I wash all the items. Some need extra love—bleaching, tie-dying, studding or button, hem or zipper repair. Then, I take photos of all garments with my friend Zoë. Prior to posting, I take measurement photos and create descriptions for each garment. I then post and repost and chat with my sweet vintage-loving supporters. On drop days, I stay tethered to my assistant, Ivy, who takes care of sales via DM. Mondays and Fridays are post office days. I put thank you letters and pressed flowers go into every package (I love this part). We then DM everyone their tracking number along with another thank you.

Merch fulfillment! I sell 14 different items on Bandcamp. They have slightly different packaging processes but everything gets autographed, thank you carded and, you guessed it, pressed flowers from my garden.

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[12 p.m.] After tapping in and out of the above worlds, it's usually lunchtime. I'll have a little something and then exercise! I love walking a couple miles while listening to podcasts (Brené Brown) or audiobooks (currently spinning the autobiography of Malcolm X). Or, if I have less time, I'll turn the heat up in my living room and freestyle yoga with dance and ab work integrated. I always do this to screamo/pop rock bands' albums, something I listened to in high school. Yesterday was Decadence by Head Automatica—totally holds up. If I have even less time, I'll freestyle dance in my front yard for three to four songs—quick and life-changing.

On other days, this is prime haircut time. I prefer to cut in the hours of 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

GRAMMYs

[3:30 p.m.] As I mentioned, on Mondays and Fridays I go to the post office (where I am helped by either Ernie, Adora or Stanley). Other days I'll have a golden light, front yard hang with a friend.

[5 p.m.] I kiss my dog for the seventieth time today.

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[6 p.m.] Pandemic life: make dinner, sometimes simple, sometimes elaborate. I prep snacks and juice my Imperfect Foods produce for the week. Then I hang/watch TV/read/after-dinner walk with my partner. Sometimes we'll have a guest or two over for a drink and a porch hang. Living the dream!

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Days where I have no clients and no pending orders, I either aimlessly craft or I write. Song messages come to me unplanned—this is my way of planning those unplanned creative spurts. I work on songs alone and sometimes with bandmates. The day will go as follows: coffee, podcast while I walk, then get together with either Eduardo for LRW band, Chris for Aging Actress or Andrew for Heaven Electric.

These days are few and usually clumped together. Because I released an album in March and because the music industry has slowed down immensely, I've been treating writing less militantly and been allowing myself to explore other passions.

GRAMMYs

De'Wayne Talks "Top Gun," Jimi Hendrix & Radiohead, Finding Himself In L.A.

Django Django

Django Django

Photo: Horacio Bolz

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Quarantine Diaries: Django Django's Dave Maclean quarantine-diaries-django-djangos-dave-maclean-livestreaming-band-chatting-cats

Quarantine Diaries: Django Django's Dave Maclean Is Livestreaming With The Band & Chatting With Cats

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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com reached out to musicians to see how they were spending their days in isolation
GRAMMYs
Nov 12, 2020 - 4:16 pm

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rock the music industry, GRAMMY.com has reached out to musicians to see how they're spending their days off the road. Today, Django Django drummer/producer Dave Maclean shares his Quarantine Diary. Their latest single, "Glowing In The Dark," is out now.

[9:30 a.m.] On my way to the kitchen to make coffee I pass Angus on the stairs. He's just stumbled in from an all-night DJ set at the Pretzel Factory. 

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[10 a.m.] I've been staring at this pile of things for 15 minutes. I do this most mornings now. Sometimes I pick the snare drum up and move it to another part of the room. 

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[10:30 a.m.] Tending to the garden. I don't know if this plant is dead or it's simply deciduous. Spring will bring the answer. 

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[11a.m.] A record I don't remember buying arrives at the house. 

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[11:30 a.m.] As I leave the house to head for the studio, I'm struck by how wonderful the bins appear, bathing in the warm autumnal sunshine. 

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[12 p.m.] Dodgy John's got some business to care of. Heard him mutter something about Jaffa Cakes and pencil sharpeners. 

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[1:30 p.m.] Lunchtime and Janet from Studio 6 is chewing my ear off about Nazi moon bases on the dark side of the moon. 

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[3 p.m.] We're setting up a green screen for an online DJ set. Vinny [Neff, Django Django's singer/guitarist] said he wanted to be a part of the screen but his back's getting sore now. 

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[4 p.m.] DJ set done. The studio needs a bit of sorting out over this lockdown! 

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[7 p.m.] Work is done and I'm treated to a fabulous West London curry (thanks Sonia).

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GRAMMY Rewind: Watch CBGB Regulars Living Colour Win Best Hard Rock Performance For "Time's Up" In 1991

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Some of the content on this site expresses viewpoints and opinions that are not those of the Recording Academy. Responsibility for the accuracy of information provided in stories not written by or specifically prepared for the Academy lies with the story's original source or writer. Content on this site does not reflect an endorsement or recommendation of any artist or music by the Recording Academy.