My husband Ken is one of the most caring, down-to-earth, and fun people I know, on top of being extremely brave, courageous, and committed. For his 40th birthday, he threw a concert (similar to his 38th year birthday recital) but instead of doing it solo, he cobbled together a full band (frequent readers know he started taking guitar lessons 3.5 years ago when he won an O.A.R. Sound Check at a silent auction). So, with a lot of work, practice, and dedication, he had a fabulous 40th birthday party last weekend. I am so proud of him for putting himself out there and taking risks. Here are the photos (most of them are taken by Cynthia Delconte, our wedding photographer!) Enjoy!
Hello Harlem!! The party was held in the downstairs bar of Red Rooster — it was the perfect venue for a different party. Loved it and we will be back in the future!
The scene. Before the party started.
Piano. Ken had a special guest join him for one song.
Every part of the restaurant is cool — even the lights!
The vibe before the concert. Amazing food, drink and company.
Anticipation!
Final preparation
Hubba hubba singing “Wagon Wheel“, with good friend, Alicia dancing in the background.
The “band” (in quotes because they practiced twice together before the concert): saxophonist Niko Higgins (found via a Facebook request- Niko is my friend from college’s cousin – thanks Gigs!); Max, Ken’s guitar teacher, playing bass (Big Friendly Giant); drummer Lance Brown, who Ken met at a friend’s house two months ago; fiddler Heather Cole, a friend of one of Ken’s ex-work colleagues (wearing Josie Natori!). Considering how little they practiced and how little experience Ken has singing/playing guitar, it was amazing!
Love Ken so much even with his singing facial expressions.
Ken’s business school friend Lorri Elder joined him for “When Stars Go Blue.” She has an AWESOME voice. One of the highlights of the night.
The boss, the designer, the concert pianist (Josie Natori) joined Ken for a song! “Tiny Dancer“! Loved it!
Full amateur hour set list: A-Team by Ed Sheeran; Drops of Jupiter by Train; Peace by O.A.R.; When Stars Go Blue by The Corrs; #41 by Dave Matthews Band; Wagon Wheel by O.C.M.S; Tiny Dancer by Elton John; That Was a Crazy Game of Poker by O.A.R.
The cake, and the couple. Awkward exchange of who-knows-what.
Kisses to the birthday boy!
Great job, Babers! Happy 40th birthday!
How awesome! Love all of these pictures.. Such nice memories for your family. Good job Ken!!
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I’m so happy Ken, aka The Josie Guy, had a great birthday. The Natori family is so incredibly talented and musically gifted (Mrs. Josie Natori’s piano skills are out of this world)! Looks like it was a perfect location to celebrate such a special night!
Happy Belated Birthday, Ken!
Even my husband loved watching the Tiny Dancer video! Impressive!
Thanks Lynne! We had fun. See you soon!
Happy Birthday!!! Great songs..looks.like a good time was had by all..but …uhm…that cake doesn’t look very Paleo..Non GMO…organic…clean!!! What no cake love for the doorman???
Sorry Fab.
We were too busy transporting guests who needed assistance out of Red Rooster. Didn’t have manpower to bring home cake!
Nice!
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What a special night. Happy birthday Ken!!!
celebrate birthday party with most used fashion accessory – Custom Silicone wristbands for guests and attendees.