2020 News Archive

December

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”

What a year this has been! As 2020 comes to an end, we all look ahead with great anticipation for a better new year. We’ve all been affected by this pandemic, some far more than others, and we sympathize with those who have experienced great loss. But even in the worst of times, there is always some light that penetrates the darkness.

Rather than cursing the year 2020, we can appreciate all that we still have and the positive opportunities/accomplishments that were born from this year’s misfortune. No matter how bad our circumstances are, it’s all time from our lives that we don’t get back. Even when it seems impossible, we’re absolutely able to focus on the positives and be grateful. Simply put; making the most out of a bad situation (as we both have tried to do).

Most of what happens in life is beyond our control, but the quality of life we live is up to us.

Wishing everyone a safe, healthy, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

– Joe & Linda

* If you enjoy our videos, PLEASE consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

November

Q&A with Joe & Linda:
Our Take on Being Traveling Musicians/VanDwellers

Hello everyone, we’re super excited to share this video with you all! Here we address our most frequently received questions as musicians/van-dwellers who live an alternative lifestyle. We hope this video will be enlightening to the general public as well as our fellow artists.

In our experience, it’s usually the people who have NEVER played a single note of music, or spent ANY time in a campervan, that find it necessary to question what we do. Often they have NO idea about our experiences and mindlessly believe/repeat only what they’ve heard.

Our aspiration is to help overwrite the obsolete misconceptions and stereotypes that many people have towards artists and to promote open-mindedness and acceptance towards “different.”

Each of us is free to choose whatever life we desire. Problems arise when we criticize and/or question others for doing differently. Learning acceptance towards others (and actively practicing it) is a much-needed antidote. We hope you enjoy! – J&L

Give the GIFT of MUSIC! 🎵

There are times when we can’t be with our loved ones. Whether it’s geographical distance, or a global pandemic, we still want to celebrate special occasions together.

We are offering a unique video production service. Our personalized music videos are the perfect “virtual gift” for a variety of occasions (e.g., birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, newborn child, retirement, etc.).

We customize each video to the person of choice using greetings from their family/friends as well as one or two of their favorite songs. When finished, we send the client two links: 1) an “unlisted” YouTube link for sharing, and 2) a link for downloading the full-quality video.

If you (or someone you know) would be interested in gifting one of our personalized music videos, or if you have any questions, please write us at JoeandLindaMusic@gmail.com.

Background Music:
“Beginning’s End” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Colossus ADEA
https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic
https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

October

Van Conversion – Ep. 15:
THE FINAL EPISODE !!!

After 3 months of blood, sweat, and tears, we’re excited to present our FINAL Van Conversion video!

Our van design is totally customized to our specific wants/needs as traveling musicians. We feel SO incredibly fulfilled to have accomplished this massive project and we’re super excited now to enjoy the fruits of our labor! A HUGE heartfelt thanks to the family and friends who helped and supported us along the way; we are profoundly grateful for your assistance!

And now…time to hit the road for our maiden voyage! Stay tuned for our upcoming adventures! – J&L

Drone Footage by: Dennis Goodman

Background Music:
“Colossus 2” by Parallel Mind 
From the Album – Connections
https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 15:
The Finishing Touches

In this episode we finish up the remaining tasks and prepare the van for our maiden voyage. Stay tuned for the FINAL episode of our “Van Conversion” series…coming soon!

Background Music: “Beginning’s End” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Colossus ADEA https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 14:
Building the Kitchen

In this episode we begin to build and assemble our kitchen.

Background Music: “Casa de Jig” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Colossus ADEA https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 13:
Preparing the Mattress

In this episode we adjust our mattress to fit the bed frame.

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 12:
Building the Furniture

In this episode we start designing & building our furniture.

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

September

Van Conversion – Ep. 11:
Installing Our Custom Ceiling

In this episode we install our custom ceiling and finish the wall paneling!

Background Music: 
“Monochrome Carousel” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Connections
https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 10:
Painting the Ceiling

This is a special episode of our “Van Conversion” series that shows how our van’s ceiling was beautifully painted by the talented artist NAC. Watch as he skillfully brings our concept to life (sunrise to daytime sky to sunset to night sky). We are beyond happy with our customized ceiling as it gives our van a special and unique flair! Thank you NAC!

Check out other examples of NAC’s artwork on Instagram and please don’t hesitate to contact him for any/all of your artistic needs: https://www.instagram.com/nac_h5/.

Background Music: “Resyduel” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Connections
https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

August

Van Conversion – Ep. 9:
Installing the Wall Paneling

In this episode we begin to install the wall paneling!

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider rewarding our efforts with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 8:
Wall & Ceiling Sub-Construction

In this episode we cut and install the wall/ceiling sub-construction and then prepare the ceiling boards.

Background Music: 
“Connections” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Connections
https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 7:
Installing A Side Window

In this episode we install a side window (Dometic S4, 50x45cm) on the driver’s side wall. At first we weren’t sure if we wanted to add another window, but the more we thought about it, the more it made sense. We’re super satisfied and glad we did it!

Background Music:
“Beginning’s End” by Parallel Mind
From the Album – Colossus ADEA https://www.instagram.com/parallelmindmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Ep. 6:
Preparing the Wall Paneling

In this episode we apply oil to the wood paneling that will make up the interior walls of the van.

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion -Ep. 5:
Finishing the Floor

This is video #5 from our “Van Conversion Series” that shows highlights from our conversion process. PLEASE NOTE: these are in no way designed to be in-depth tutorials.

In this episode we complete the floor by installing the different layers:
– Wood support beams
– Insulation: K-Flex & Jackodur XPS Foam
– Vapor Barrier
– OSB Subfloor
– Laminate Flooring Underlay
– Laminate Floor

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion – Episode 4

In this episode we install the second roof window (Dometic Micro Heki-28x28cm), begin the insulation process, and prepare the flooring.

Background Music:
“Opposite of Know” by Parallel Mind
Instagram @ParallelMindMusic
https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion -Ep. 3:
Installing the First Roof Window

This is video #3 from our “Van Conversion Series” that shows highlights from our conversion process. PLEASE NOTE: these are in no way designed to be in-depth tutorials.

In this episode we install our first roof window (Dometic Midi Heki-70x50cm).

Background Music: “The Great Divide” by Parallel Mind
From the Album “Connections”
https://www.facebook.com/parallelmindmusic

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion -Ep. 2:
Removing the Floor & Cleaning

This is video #2 from our “Van Conversion Series” that shows highlights from our conversion process. PLEASE NOTE: these are in no way designed to be in-depth tutorials.

In this episode we remove the floor and clean underneath it. More videos coming soon!

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Van Conversion -Ep. 1:
Removing the Interior Panels

This is the first video of a series that will show highlights from our van conversion process. PLEASE NOTE: these are in no way designed to be in-depth tutorials.

In this episode we are removing the interior panels/railing to prepare for insulation. More videos coming soon!

* If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

Walk & Talk with Joe und Linda -Ep. 2:
When The Going Gets Tough…

In this episode we reflect upon the many changes and challenges we’ve faced these past few months and discuss the importance of not settling, perseverance, being adaptable, and much more!

**We enjoy producing videos as free entertainment for our followers, but please understand, they take a lot of time to create (hours, sometimes days). If you enjoy our videos, please consider supporting our work with a donation: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=J4K766XSPGWBN&source=url

July

New Birthday Video!

A man in Austin-Texas wanted to give his sister something extra special for her birthday this year. He found us online and hired us to create a personalized birthday video incorporating two of her favorite songs: “Walking on Sunshine” and “Imagine.”

Introducing Our NEW Van!!!

After much hustle and hassle, we are thrilled to introduce our brand new van; a 2018 VW Crafter!

Despite its size, it actually drives/feels like a much smaller car. Equipped with every safety feature you could wish for, this van practically drives (and parks) itself!

Step 2: converting it into a customized mobile home! Stay tuned…

Farewell Elliot 😢

After selling “Elliot” (our trusty 1995 VW T4 Multivan) we strenuously made our way to Dresden to pick up our new vehicle. Here are some highlights from the grueling journey.

Thank you Miriam & Philip!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s Garden Concert in Dringenberg-Germany on Saturday July 4, 2020. Special thanks to our friends Miriam & Philip for organizing this super fun event!

Busking

Highlights from our first “busking” experience on Friday July 3rd, 2020 in Detmold-Germany.

*Busking = the activity of playing music in the street or another public place for voluntary donations.

June

Linda Sings in the Kölner Dom

Highlights from Linda’s gig in the Cologne Cathedral on Monday June 15, 2020.

Thank you Ina!

After a long hiatus…WE’RE BACK!!!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s Public Concert in Lemgo-Germany on Thursday June 11, 2020. Special thanks to Ina & Strandcafé “A’RhieBa” for inviting us to perform at their 10th Anniversary party!

March

Give The Gift of Music…

People have been asking us more and more to record “birthday-song greetings” as a gift for their loved ones…SO…we are now offering this as a service!

This video is a recent example (designed as a surprise). Using professional equipment, we can:

– Customize the video/music to the person of your choice.
– Include special videos/photos (provided by you).
– Afterwards send you links to an “unlisted” YouTube video (for sharing) as well as a full quality version (for download).

If you (or someone you know) would be interested in gifting a personalized birthday-song greeting, please contact us at: JoeandLindaMusic@gmail.com.

For more info, click HERE.

Thank you Susanne & Markus!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Dellach im Drautal-Austria on Saturday March 14, 2020. Special thanks to Susanne & Markus for hosting us and this awesome evening!

Thank you Miriam!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Neukirchen an der Enknach-Austria on Thursday March 12, 2020. Special thanks to Miriam for hosting us and this wonderful evening!

Thank you Monika & Jonas!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Munich-Germany on Tuesday March 10, 2020. A very special thanks to Monika & Jonas for hosting us and this super fun evening!

Thank you Susanne & Timur!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Stuttgart-Germany on Sunday March 8, 2020. Special thanks to Susanne & Timur for hosting us and organizing this awesome evening!

Thank you Sarah & Falko!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Ludwigsburg-Germany on Saturday March 7, 2020. Special thanks to Sarah & Falko for hosting us and this super fun evening!

Thank you Katrin!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Peine-Germany on Friday March 6, 2020. Special thanks to Katrin for organizing this awesome evening!

March 2020 Tour Announcement!

Announcing our March 2020 Germany-Austria-Italy Tour!
More info on our GIGS page HERE.

February

Thank you Ea!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Kassel-Germany on Friday February 28, 2020. Special thanks to Ea and her awesome flatmates for hosting this super fun evening!

Thank you Franzi & André!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Minden-Germany on Saturday February 22, 2020. Special thanks to Franzi & André for hosting us and this wonderful evening!

Thank you again Sandra!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s performance in Detmold-Germany on Saturday February 15, 2020. Special thanks to our dear friend Sandra for inviting us to perform at her son’s birthday party!

Thank you Ruth & KulturMühle Buchhagen!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s Valentine’s Day concert in Buchhagen-Germany on Friday February 14th, 2020. Special thanks to Ruth & KulturMühle Buchhagen for having us!

Thank you René!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s concert in Paderborn-Germany on Saturday February 8, 2020. Special thanks to René for inviting us to perform at his 50th birthday party!

Thank you Katharina & Yannick!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Bielefeld-Germany on Friday February 7, 2020. Special thanks to Katharina & Yannick for hosting us and this super fun evening!

Thank you Rosenhof Erkrath!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s Public Concert in Erkrath-Germany on Wednesday February 5, 2020. Special thanks to Sandra & Rosenhof Erkrath for organizing this event!

Thank you Rosenhof Hochdahl!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s Public Concert in Hochdahl-Germany on Monday February 3, 2020. Special thanks to Sandra & Rosenhof Hochdahl for organizing this event!

Thank you Christine & Martin!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Detmold-Germany on Friday January 31, 2020. Special thanks to Christine & Martin for hosting us!

January

Thank you Stella & Tobi!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Kassel, Germany on Thursday January 30, 2020. Special thanks to Stella & Tobi for hosting this super fun evening!

Thank you Sandra & family!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Steinhagen, Germany on Friday January 24, 2020. Special thanks to Sandra and her wonderful family for hosting us!

Thank you to our Family & friends!

Highlights from Joe & Linda’s House Concert in Düsseldorf, Germany on Friday January 17, 2020. The concert was organized in honor of Joe’s Dad visiting from Chicago. Big thanks to our family & friends for sharing this special occasion with us!

Happy New Year! 🎉

2019 was an AMAZING year full of new places and new faces! We are grateful to everyone who has helped support our mission and cherish all the new friendships. Here’s a quick look at some of the many connections we’ve made along the way…