Jessie Veeder, a singer-songwriter from Watford City, North Dakota, continues to perform music while balancing family life and the challenges of a small-town musician. Recently, she has been assisting her daughters in preparing for a local talent show, which has sparked reflections on her own musical journey and the impact of her career on her family.
Balancing Family and Music
Veeder recalls sitting with her daughters, strumming her guitar as they practice songs together. This experience brings back memories of her own childhood, where she sang alongside her father. As her daughters grow older, they desire to select their own songs and perform solo, a development that Veeder embraces wholeheartedly. The transition signifies a new chapter in their shared musical experience.
Despite the joy of creating music with her daughters, Veeder grapples with the realities of life as a musician. As she juggles songwriting, family responsibilities, and performances, she often finds herself questioning the sacrifices required for her passion. The demands of a music career can lead her away from home during family dinners, and the travel involved often leaves her on the road late at night. “Being a small-town musician doesn’t make you a rich woman,” she reflects.
Veeder’s dedication to her art began early, recording her first album at the age of 16. She acknowledges the sacrifices that come with pursuing a career in music, including late nights and the need for a supportive partner. “You want to pay back those album costs? Then your weekends are planned,” she explains. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Veeder understands that flexibility is crucial for navigating the demands of both family and performing arts.
The Transformative Power of Music
Veeder’s journey has not been without its hardships. She recalls moments of doubt and exhaustion, including sleepless nights spent traveling to performances. Yet, these challenges have shaped her appreciation for music and the connections it fosters. “If you keep singing, it will keep giving new experiences, new people to love, new places to travel,” she notes, emphasizing the value of live music in her life.
The power of music to transform lives is a recurring theme in Veeder’s work. She has witnessed how her performances can bring people together, turning strangers into friends and inspiring hope in children. “It makes stoic cowboys tap their toes, maybe dance a little,” she says, highlighting the joy that music can bring to diverse audiences.
Ultimately, Veeder’s commitment to music stems from the personal fulfillment it provides. It is about more than just performances; it is about the shared moments with her daughters and the community she serves through her art. As she strums a G chord and listens to her youngest daughter sing, she is reminded of the simple yet profound reasons she continues to pursue her passion. “This right here might have always been the reason,” she concludes.
For those interested in stories reflecting rural life and the complexities of balancing a career in the arts with family, Veeder invites readers to explore her insights in her Coming Home columns. She encourages engagement and feedback, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences in the context of rural living.
