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, composer, artist, and music biz coach Cheryl B. Engelhardt shares her Quarantine Diary. Her new piano/ambient album Luminary, is out now. 

[7 a.m.] I usually wake up around this time and do NOT check my phone. Who needs bad memes and trolls to cloud their morning? I like my trolls in the evenings after a nice glass of Chardonnay, thankyouverymuch. But I digress. I brush my teeth and head straight to my little workout space (aka a furnitureless room and two 5-lb weights) where I do a minimum of five minutes of yoga and meditation (I’m on my 820th consecutive day!) as I shamelessly listen to my own New Age album, Luminary and write in the companion journal. The music calms all the little hamsters running around in my head without making me fall back asleep. 

[8 a.m.] By now I’ve either done some morning reading (currently it’s Elizabeth Gilbert and Ibram X. Kendi) or I hit the river for a quick paddle. Today, we paddle. Enzo is usually in tow either way.

[9 a.m.] Now it’s go-time. I sip coffee while I reply to emails and post something about music, Enzo, or my new water sport obsession. (Fun fact: I used to SCUBA dive for the United States Geological Survey doing water quality research. Random, I know. That was after my bouncer job, before my film scoring gig for College Humor. Don’t judge.) 

[11 a.m.] Today, pre-lunch, I’m mixing the audio of singers who have virtually recorded themselves performing my choral piece, “The Listening”. I was asked to compose this song three years ago by the social justice choir I participate in, Voices 21C. The text is inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1967 speech, “Beyond Vietnam: A Time To Break Silence”. Earlier this summer, several choirs who have performed the song over the years reached out to see if they could do a virtual recording, as the music and lyrics are so timely. And, in an amazing turn of events, MLK’s goddaughter, actress and activist, Donzaleigh Abernathy, is singing one of the solos! 

[3 p.m.] I schedule my “appearances” (aka zoom calls where I need to not look like a zombie) for the afternoon. Today, I’ll do a podcast episode about creating New Age music to combat anxiety, then hop on a zoom call with my assistant Robin to talk about the best way to wrap up the week.

[5 p.m.] Throughout the month, I have regular zoom meetings (omg you too?) with my Amplify community - a monthly coaching membership I created for indie musicians (and Enzo) that’s centered around goal-setting (and goal-getting), powerful communication, and accountability. Today, we have our live Q&A session (AmpliFive @ Five). We cover topics from emotional blocks to monetizing shows to the best way to pitch a licensing agent and track it all on a big BINGO card. We share recent successes and declare what actions we will take to continue to level up our careers. It’s super fun and always gets me jazzed up to work on my own music, as well as be a cheerleader for these motivated musicians.

[6 p.m.] I like a glass of wine when it’s still light out to signal that the day is transitioning to a close. (And no, I never go back and check on those trolls, despite the Chardonnay in hand.) Afterward, I’ll schedule my day for tomorrow. And yes, I schedule when I’m going to schedule my day.

[8:30 p.m.] This is usually “couch time” with my hubby and pup. We love to dig into a TV series. Right now it’s “The Last Dance”. Afterward, I read in bed for a bit following a quick bath (Pisces much?). The last thing I do before I close my eyes is say my big goal out loud as if it has already happened. I let my sleep brain do the rest! 

Quarantine Diaries: GRAMMY-Nominated Producer ford. Is Making Avocado Toast & Touching Up His Buzz Cut

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, rising singer/songwriter ARI shares her quarantine diary. ARI's debut IDIOT GRL EP is out Aug. 14.

[9:40 a.m.] A late start to the day. I just woke up to my cat Malakai licking my face and snuggling under my chin, desperate for cuddles. I reluctantly gave in before diving into my morning routine, which starts by going through all of the daily news on my Snapchat feed to see what’s going on in the world.

[11 a.m.] Just out of the shower and into the kitchen for the usual: tea and avocado toast. I don’t typically like tea or coffee, but I had this amazing tea from Starbucks once and fell in love with it. I ended up finding the recipe and making it myself, and to be honest, I like my version better. Once I boil the kettle, I start part two of my morning “meditation”: watching one of my favourite shows while I respond to emails. With the IDIOT GRL EP coming out next week, I can tell you there are a TON of emails. I turned on "Gilmore Girls" (my guilty pleasure) and opened up my laptop to go through my calendar.

[1:45 p.m.] Recording session time. Zoom calls have become my everyday life. It’s crazy to think that this time last year, you could actually be in a room with people. Now the most social interaction I get is virtually. On the positive side, I get to set up my little home studio from the comfort of my own bed and I find the sessions to be really productive with no outside distractions.

[3:30 p.m.] Malakai is meowing at my door. As I try to sing over him, eventually I can’t ignore his cute little voice. We take a quick break and I have a little playtime with him. I can hear my song playing in the living room—it still weirds me out hearing myself. My guess is my roommate aka my manager is sending off final approval for the “IDIOT GRL” music video, which comes out the same day as the EP. Super excited for everyone to finally see it!

[6:00 p.m.] Time for dinner. It may just be my favourite part of the day. During my session, my roommate cooked us some delicious pasta. We eat dinner together every night, which is really nice. Usually, after dinner, we wind down and watch TV, but we decided to try doing an arts and crafts project tonight. I watched this TikTok video of a DIY way to make music plaques. You take a screenshot of a song on Spotify and use a marker to trace out the name of the song, artist, play button, etc. Once that’s done, you simply add the album artwork of your choice, frame it, and voila! I thought it would be a cool idea to make a wall of each of the songs off of my EP.

[9:00 p.m.] After an eventful day, I decided to go watch a drive-in Maple Leafs game (wearing a mask, of course). My sister works for the TSN network and started hosting drive-in game nights to promote the network and social distancing events. I’ll admit, I’m not the biggest hockey fan, but I’ll never pass up an opportunity to spend time with my family.

[11:30 p.m.] I finally get home and hop straight into bed. I feel like I haven’t spent much time on Instagram today, so figured I’d open it up before getting some shuteye. I launched the pre-save link for the EP today and told my followers that I would DM anyone who pre-saved it and sent me a screenshot. I always love getting to interact with my fans and I can’t tell you how grateful I am to see how excited people are for my debut EP. It’s a great feeling to end the day with.

Kiana Ledé Talks Opening Up On ‘KIKI,' Lucky Daye Collab & “Urban” Term | Up Close & Personal

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, alternative soul pop singer Tedy shares his Quarantine Diary for Sept. 10. Tedy's Boys Don’t Cry EP is out now. 

[6 p.m.] Good Morning! This is me just after waking up, getting ready to start my day because a proper sleep schedule has left the chat...about to go on my daily walk before I head to the studio to work on some new music the day before my Boys Don’t Cry EP drops.

[7 p.m.] The scenery on my walk was unreal today. It literally looks like a painting! This is the Mimico Creek Bridgewest of Downtown Toronto. I really love the way the moon reflects on the water and just the overall vibe. Hope I can carry this with me into the studio later! I swear this picture isn't edited.

[8 p.m.] So begins another late night distanced writing session. Toronto is in Phase 3 of reopening with most businesses and services back open. I’m so glad that I can record in person again but of course making sure to take all proper safety precautions.

[10 p.m.] Listening to my new super awesome songs that will be coming out after the Boys Don't Cry EP! But you can’t hear the new stuff yet muhahhaha! I’m so excited, only 2 hours left before the EPcomes out!! I genuinely feel so good to finally share all of these songs that I have been living with for 2 years now with you all.

[12:30 a.m.] MY EP IS OUTTTTTT!!!! I had so many extreme emotions to let go of and share with words & music. Hopefully, the songs can help heal people! This is so scary, but at the same time, I feel light and free that everyone can experience these feelings with me.

[3 a.m.] Still going strong in the studio. I’m exhausted but also energized. I think I’llt ake a nap on that couch.

[6 a.m.] Another late/early(?) Uber back home. Mentally exhausted but Sza's "Prom" is blasting in my ears. Love her. Have also been listening to: Kid Laroi–"Maybe" Halsey–"Be Kind,"  Dominic Fike–"Double Negative" and Isaac Dunbar–"Make Up Drawer." Love diving into new styles of music and understanding myself more through it.

[7 a.m.] Back home. Couldn’t fall asleep, went out on my balcony, staying up to look at the view each morning is a must!

 

 [8 a.m.] Still can’t sleep! I love to playing League of Legends on my downtime and watch Anime.This series“ The God of High School” it’s about Jin Mori, a high schoolmartial artist, he is invited by a mysterious organization to compete inThe God of High School Tournament. Jin Mori is told that if he wins, any wish he makes will be granted...I love the incredible animation and the amazing soundtrack.

[10 a.m.] Me still not sleeping because sleep is for the weak and I have interviews to do. If I go to bed I won't wake up, hah!

[1 p.m.] That’s it for today. I can’t wait for you guys to hear & love the EP fully!! This has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Love you all and thank you for the support. 

Quarantine Diaries: Caylee Hammack Is Making Espresso, Gardening & Promoting Her New Album, 'If It Wasn't For You

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, singer/songwriter Joan Wasser of Joan as Police Woman, whose forthcoming covers album, COVER TWO, includes tracks by The Strokes, Prince, Talk Talk, and more, shares her Quarantine Diary.

Thursday, April 2

[10 a.m.-12 p.m.] Went to bed at 4 a.m. last night after getting drawn into working on a song. Put on the kettle to make hot coffee while enjoying an iced coffee I made the day before. Double coffee is my jam. Read the news, which does not do much for my mood. Catch up with a few friends, which does a lot of good for my mood. Glad it goes in this order.

[12 p.m.-2 p.m.] Make steel cut oats with blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, fresh ginger, fresh turmeric, a sprinkling of cinnamon and cardamom, and of course, coconut butter to melt on top. If you’re not into coconut butter (sometimes marketed as coconut "manna"), I’d suggest just going for it and getting it (or ordering it) and putting it on your sweet potatoes, your oats, anywhere you’d put butter. I’m not vegan but I do enjoy hearing the tiny scream uttered by a strawberry as I cut into it. 

Contemplate some yoga. Contamplate meditating. Do neither. Resume work on the song I want to finish and send today. I have a home studio and I spend a lot of my time working on music here. The song is a collboration sent to me from Rodrigo D’Erasmo in Milano that will benefit the folks who work behind the scenes in the music touring system in Italy. 

[2 p.m.-4 p.m.] I traded in a guitar for a baritone guitar right before all this craziness hit but hadn’t had the time to get it out until now. I put on some D’Angelo, plugged into my amp and played along as if I were in his band. Micahel Archer, If you’re reading this, I hope you are safe and sound and thank you immensely for all the music you've given us always. 

[4 p.m.-6 p.m.] Bike repair shops have been deemed "necessary," thank goodness, because biking is the primary way I get around and I need a small repair. I hit up my neighborhood shop and they get my bike in and out in 10 minutes, enough time to feel the sun for a moment. 

I ride fast and hard down to the water's edge and take in a view of the East River from Brooklyn. There are a few people out getting their de-stress walks but it is mostly deserted on the usually packed streets.

[6 p.m.-8 p.m.] Practice Bach piano invention no. 4 in Dm very, very, very slowly. I never studied piano but I’m trying to hone some skills. Realize I’m ravenous. Eat chicken stew with wild mushrooms I made in the slow cooker yesterday. It’s always better the second day.

[8 p.m.-10 p.m.] Get on a zoom chat with a bunch of women friends on both coasts. We basically shoot the sh*t and make each other laugh. 

Afterwards I still feel like I ate a school bus so I give into yoga. I feel great afterwards. This photo proves I have a foot. 

[10 p.m.-12 a.m.] Record a podcast for Stereo Embers in anticipation of my new release on May 1, a second record of covers, inventively named COVER TWO. Continue to work on music (it’s a theme).

[12 a.m.-2 p.m.] Tell myself I should think about bed. Ignore myself and confinue to work on music. 

[2 a.m.-4 a.m.] Force myself into bed where I have many books to choose from. This is what I’m reading presently, depending on my mood. Finally I listen to Nick Hakim’s new song, "Qadir," and am taken by its beauty and grace. Good night. 

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. 

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, Christie Simpson, lead singer of New Zealand dream-pop outfit Yumi Zouma, who recently relocated to London, shares her Quarantine Diary.

Tuesday, March 24

[9:04 a.m.] Waking up in Hackney. It's a rare sunny day in London. A sliver of sun comes through my window when I roll up the blind—this always makes for a happy start to the day.

I've been enjoying some pretty slow mornings. I think my body has taken on a lot of the anxiety as exhaustion, and combined with this opportunity to rest I'm having more sleep-ins than ever before. But this is the first time in a long time that I don't really have a job... so it's all good, right?

Today we should've been playing a sold-out show at our favorite venue in San Francisco: Rickshaw Stop.

It's bittersweet to think of, but at least I've got a few little things planned out for the day ahead to keep me distracted. 

I ordered an audio interface online last week so I can work on music—that will arrive today at some point. I moved to London less than a month ago, so I'm not exactly set up here yet—it's very weird timing.

My morning ritual has become coffee in bed, with a book (I'm reading "Outline" by Rachel Cusk), sometimes with a face mask. Today I went a step further and did a hair treatment, too. I've heard self-care is important in these times.

[11:14 a.m.] I've started one of those 30-day yoga things (it's good to have a project). I'm on day five today, but already I feel that it's doing me a lot of good whilst cooped up in the house. So from the comfort of my bedroom, I enjoy my daily dose of Yoga by Adriene—she is the master of many a chill and lovely yoga video.

[12:39 p.m.] I make myself some lunch and sit outside in the sun on the AstroTurf of my back yard. I can feel the sun soaking into my skin and my god does it feel good. I stocked up on Pavilion sourdough so every lunch is a treat. I'm trying to eat lots of fruit—I always buy strawberries every time I make a trip to Tesco.

[3:06 p.m.] My audio interface arrived just before 2 p.m., and since then I've been sitting on my bedroom floor working on a track. It's a collab—these times definitely feel ripe to start new relationships and work on collaborations. It feels so nice to have the setup required to properly work on music again. It's so nice to record harmonies with myself again. I got completely caught up in this for a while—for the first time in a long time! I found it really hard to set aside time for music when I was working a day job (as I had been until I left New Zealand) and honestly, it's really nice to know I have so much time free to work on music now.

[4:57 p.m.] After a nice long walk in the sun (as per the one-walk-per-day regulation), I've arrived at Charlie's. Charlie is my bandmate, my only other bandmate living in London—and he's not home, but he's given me his keys for an important mission. The Nintendo Switch is currently sold out pretty much everywhere, but I'm desperate to play the new edition of "Animal Crossing"—so Charlie has very kindly surrendered his Nintendo Switch to me. What a guy, right? In this moment I feel very #blessed. To be walking through a very quiet Shoreditch, streaked with golden evening sun, on such a sacred pilgrimage.

I water his plants (as he's currently staying with Val, his girlfriend) and I'm on my merry way back to Homerton, Nintendo Switch in tow.

[6:35 p.m.] Back home, clean sheets on the bed, bedroom tidied. It's officially "aperitif" hour, which for me lately constitutes a strange but delicious combo of pink gin and grapefruit juice. "Animal Crossing" is downloading. I sweep the floor and put clean pillowcases on the pillows. My flatmate downstairs is making cheese toasties for dinner. Everything feels peaceful, in its right place. It's nothing like the lead-up to a sold-out Yumi Zouma show, but I'm making peace with that now, knowing that we did the right thing to keep people safe and well. It’s not forever, we’ll be back out there, and for now, I’m getting by just fine. 

If you wish to support our efforts to assist music professionals in need, visit: https://www.grammy.com/MusiCares/CoronavirusReliefFund

If you are a member of the music industry in need of assistance, visit: musicares.org.