Kimberly Kapela

Chicago

Music Editor, Music Journalist, Arts and Culture Reporter at Freelance

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Articles

Malibu Music Helps Community Heal After Palisades Fire

2 months ago | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

As Los Angeles grappled with the devastation of early January’s Palisades Fire, the local music community found itself among the many affected. The wildfire, which ignited in the Santa Monica Mountains on Jan. 7, tore through the Pacific Palisades, Topanga and Malibu neighborhoods, left destruction in its wake. But the impact extended beyond homes and wildlife, with many businesses, included those in the MI industry, being forced to shut their doors.
How Filmmaker George Lucas Saved Amazing Grace Music

2 months ago | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

Nestled in the heart of San Anselmo, California, Amazing Grace Music is a music store with a rich history and deep connection to its community. Owned by Judy Kaufman and John Pedersen, the mom-and-pop shop has been a sanctuary for musicians and a symbol of perseverance since the couple took ownership in 1983. Founded in 1970, Amazing Grace has always been led by local musician couples, each pairing carrying forward its legacy of supporting Marin County’s music scene.
Guitar Center Music Foundation Offers Relief Grant for Musicians Impacted by LA Wildfires

Jan 14, 2025 | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

In response to the devastation caused by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, the Guitar Center Music Foundation has unveiled a one-time grant program to support local musicians and music instruction programs. The initiative aims to help those who have lost their instruments and gear in the fires, providing a path to recovery for both artists and educators. Wildfires broke out in the LA area on Jan.
A New Haven for Nashville Musicians

Dec 8, 2024 | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

On Nov. 2, Jamie Jackson and Todd “Toddzilla” Austin celebrated the grand opening of their new store Tone Central Station in Nashville, Tennessee. This new venture brings together decades of experience and a commitment to empowering musicians of all levels. Jackson has more than 20 years of experience in music retail and managed multiple Sam Ash Music locations, while Austin brings over 30 years of experience and a unique charisma to the partnership.
Gibson Hits Trump Guitars With Cease-And-Desist

Nov 25, 2024 | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

Gibson Guitars has issued a cease-and-desist order to 16 Creative, the company behind Trump Guitars, for alleged trademark infringement. The controversy centers on Trump Guitars’ American Eagle and Presidential series models, which Gibson claims unlawfully mimic its Les Paul body design. The guitars have been publicly endorsed by president-elect Donald Trump, with promotional images featuring Trump prominently displayed on the Trump Guitars’ website.
Hurricanes Helene, Milton Affect MI Retail

Oct 14, 2024 | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, MI retailers and suppliers in Florida and North Carolina have been hit hard, facing not only physical devastation but also operational challenges. Hurricane Milton, which hit Florida on Oct. 10, and Hurricane Helene, which made landfall on Sept. 26 and caused severe flooding in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas, have created a complex impact.
Divergent Guitars Redefines the Music Store

Aug 27, 2024 | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

In the heart of Sarasota, Florida, a unique fusion art and music has taken shape at Divergent Guitars. Aric Paul, the store’s owner, has created a space that not only celebrates the beauty of rare and iconic instruments but also redefines what a music store can be. Divergent Guitars is not just a place to buy instruments; it’s a gallery where the legacy of music lives and breathes through its carefully curated collection of rare guitars.
Watermelon Music Announces Closure

May 12, 2024 | musicincmag.com | Kimberly Kapela

Watermelon Music in Davis, California, has announced it’s closing its doors after providing for its community musicians and educators for decades. The full-line retailer operated for some 28 years and offered a diverse inventory of musical instruments and accessories, as well as music lessons, instrument repairs and rentals. Owner Jeff Simmons reflected on the impact Watermelon Music had on its community, as the support had been vital in sustaining the store through various financial challenges.
Mannequin Pussy’s “I Got Heaven” Tour is a Masterclass of Liberation and Activism

Apr 15, 2024 | chicagomusicguide.com | Kimberly Kapela

By: Kimberly Kapela – Photo by: Millicent-Hailes Loud barks and cries for liberation were heard throughout Chicago’s Thalia Hall venue on Wednesday, April 10 as it was electrified by the raw energy and boundary-defying sound of Mannequin Pussy as they took to the stage for a sold-out show. The occasion? The fourth show of their I Got Heaven tour, celebrating their fourth studio album of the same name.
Sweetie Blends Old Hollywood Glamor with Punk Edge in “Showgirl”

Mar 20, 2024 | chicagomusicguide.com | Kimberly Kapela

By: Kimberly Kapela Birdy Vee, the frontwoman of the local lipstick punk band Sweetie, threw a glamorous night to remember at Gman Tavern on Friday, March 15, as Sweetie celebrated the release of their newest single, “Showgirl,” with a music video release show. Kicking off the evening was a powerful performance by local punk band Shannon Candy, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of entertainment.