Hello, friends! Here’s another spotlight in my series on women who are in business, entrepreneurs, or doing something cool!

Today I’d like to introduce you to Kansas City singer/songwriter and all-around fabulous musician Joy Zimmerman! I’ve seen Joy perform numerous times, and it’s always uplifting, motivating and just plain fun! Her music is an extension of her generous and joyful spirit. Welcome, Joy!

First, tell us a little about your job/activity. What is your role/position?

I’m a touring (in usual times) Singer/songwriter and Creative Director at Joy Zimmerman Music. Although eclectic, most of my music falls into the Acoustic/Folk/Americana camp. I love playing solo or with other musicians, and it’s mighty fun telling stories with my original songs and favorite cover tunes. 

What’s a typical day look like?

Not surprisingly, there are no typical days. My activities include songwriting, booking and playing gigs, practicing, designing set lists, taking lessons, creating videos and social media content, writing blogs and newsletters, recording songs, marketing, attending webinars and music conferences, formulating workshops and retreats, volunteering, updating my website, creating “Cultivate Joy” merchandise, and filling orders.  

What do you love about it?

I absolutely love sharing the gift of music and community with audiences. It’s gratifying to hear that a song you’ve written is meaningful to others.

Some of Joy’s favorite lyrics:

Well, my friend, the chasm is o’er us

Echoes sing when quiet the night

Let us whisper of simple and hopeful

To carry us into time

Tell us about your journey. Did you always want to do this?

Beginning with lessons at age five, I played violin seriously through college but ultimately chose to pursue social work. While my sons were young, I reinvented myself by deciding to learn to play guitar, join my first band, take singing lessons, and try songwriting. All roads have led here.

What do you wish people knew about your business?

In addition to everything music, being a singer/songwriter means running a small business. 

What do you bring to your field/job that you think is special?

Many of my social work skills translate well to performing and creating community. I have lots of life experiences to write about, and I’m curious and adventurous.  

What is your favorite book/movie/quote?

I love this quote: “Make connections; let rip; and dance where you can.” ~Annie Dillard

I love this current movie: “Enola Holmes”

I love this book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Where can we find/follow you on social media?

Let’s stay connected! You can find me on Facebook (Joy Zimmerman Music and a personal page) and on Instagram. I’m currently posting a weekly “What’s Up Wednesday” video series on Facebook, and I have a YouTube Channel. Follows and likes are always appreciated 🙂 

website: joyzimmermanmusic.com

Thanks for joining us today, Joy! Best wishes with your new release. Hope to see you on tour next year! Dear readers, if you haven’t already, I encourage you all to visit Joy’s website and tune in to Joy’s Facebook video series or have a listen on her YouTube. Come back here and let us know which tune gets stuck in your head! Have a question for Joy? Ask it here!

Happy listening and reading to all!

Darlene