Watford City, North Dakota, musician Jessie Veeder shares her journey as a small-town artist, reflecting on the challenges and joys of balancing family life with a passion for music. As she prepares her daughters for a local talent show, Veeder reminisces about her own beginnings, where her love for music was nurtured alongside her father in their basement.
During these recent practice sessions, Veeder has taken on the role of accompanist for her daughters. They have transitioned from singing along in the car to choosing their own songs and performing on stage. This new phase of their lives has sparked fond memories for Veeder, who recalls her early experiences with music and the influence of artists like Lyle Lovett.
The realities of being a musician in a remote area are not lost on her. Veeder acknowledges the sacrifices that come with the job, such as long nights away from home and the need for a flexible second job to support her music career. She writes, “Being a small-town musician doesn’t make you a rich woman,” highlighting the financial constraints often faced by artists in similar situations.
Despite the challenges, Veeder remains dedicated to her craft. She recognizes that the path of a musician is not glamorous and is filled with sacrifices, including missed family dinners and late-night drives to distant venues. Reflecting on her journey, she notes, “You want to sing on stages? Then there will be many nights when you won’t be home for supper.”
Veeder’s commitment to her music has seen her through difficult times, including nerve-wracking performances and unexpected obstacles such as getting lost in cities and enduring harsh weather conditions. Yet, these trials have enriched her experiences, allowing her to connect with diverse audiences and find joy in performing live.
Music as a Transformative Force
The essence of Veeder’s passion lies in the transformative power of music. She describes how live performances can create connections, turning ranchers into rock stars and strangers into friends. Each performance has the potential to inspire and uplift, not just for the audience but also for the performers themselves.
Veeder emphasizes the emotional impact of music on both herself and her listeners. She shares moments when her songs resonate deeply, evoking strong feelings in her audience. “It makes my little sister cry, and it makes kids hopeful and inspired and brave,” she explains. These connections reaffirm her belief that music is a vital part of life, providing moments of joy and reflection.
As she plays alongside her daughters, Veeder finds purpose in sharing her love for music with the next generation. “I strum a G chord and nod to my youngest daughter, her sweet voice projecting back at me,” she writes, capturing the joy of these shared moments. This experience reinforces her commitment to continue singing, fueled by the simple yet profound joy of making music together.
In her closing thoughts, Veeder invites readers to explore her reflections on rural living through her “Coming Home” columns, where she shares stories of life in North Dakota. Her journey as a musician continues to evolve, rooted in love for her family and a passion for the transformative power of music.
Veeder’s story serves as a reminder of the dedication and resilience required to pursue one’s passion, even in the face of life’s challenges. Her journey illustrates that for many, the love of music is worth every sacrifice, creating connections and memories that last a lifetime.
