christabelle.com

War-N and I recently (only a few days ago, Saturday November 29th) went to see Amanda Palmer in Pittsburgh, PA. Not only had I been blown away by her solo album “Who Killed Amanda Palmer” (released in September of this year) but this performance has overshadowed all other shows I’ve seen for the past 5 years. I can’t describe the energy, passion, beauty and overall pleasant feeling I got from this show! Along side Miss Palmer, performing beautifully as she sang and played the piano, were The Danger Ensemble. An incredible troop of performers that added just that much more emotion to an already powerful performance. It was well worth the trip! Despite me feeling old amongst the 18 year-old’s, and having a horrid backache from standing for over 4 hours at the show, I have no regrets! Plus, I had my first good Sex on the Beach (a cocktail) since Steve left Warehouse!! Pineapple juice, baby!

Amanda Fucking Palmer is one amazing lady. And, yes. I do mean lady. She shows more grace on stage, and in her blog, than anyone I’ve seen… ever. She is totally herself and isn’t after anything but making great art. She’s done that and, I’m sure, will continue to do so.

There was a big hub-bub about her so-called-belly (which she sets straight in her own blog) in the video for “Leeds United”. Well, I couldn’t see a damned thing wrong with her beautious belly. I’m on board with exposing more belly love! Go here if you want to share in The Rebellyon!!In fact, here’s my beloved belly as well!

Sure, I’m mean to it sometimes by constantly thinking it could be better. But, I always feed it To quote the incomparable Sophia Loren, “Everything you see, I owe to pasta!”. We should all embrace our individuality and not focus so much on what others expect us to look like. I can only be me. Why would I want to be anyone else? So, I shall give my belly, and body in general, more praise and love it for what it is. Beautiful.

When are people in the “industry” going to realize that people don’t fit into one mold that keeps performing for them without question or substance. It’s like getting a big chocolate bunny at easter and then biting into it only to find it hollow and tasteless. It looked good enough, but nothing was inside. Who wants that? Well, sirs and madams, NOT ME!

So, how does this little story relate to me and/or Hungry Lucy? Well, Miss Palmer has just become such a strong influence in my life now in just these short months of listening to Who Killed Amanda Palmer. I have watched, and greatly admired, all of the incredible videos and it has translated beautifully from music, to video to live performance. How she did it all in such a seamless way, I need to learn!!

The things I have taken from this experience is that I am on the right track for never settling to be someone I’m not. It makes my heart sing, and my voice, knowing that there are strong musicians out there that stand up for what they believe in and aren’t in it merely for financial gain. I admire the hell out of you, Amanda Palmer. Keep it up!!

If you haven’t checked out any of Amanda Palmer’s websites, please go! I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

Much Love to all, and your bellies!

Christa Belle

Amanda Palmer – main site
Amanda Palmer – album mini-site