We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Peggy Lohr. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Peggy below.
Peggy , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
First and foremost, my optimism came from my mom. She was the happiest person and always saw the glass half full. She took pride in the fact that her name was Felice and that name actually means happiness! If I complained about anything, she’d always remind me of what I had to be thankful for. There is always something to be thankful for.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’ve been a professional singer for over 50 years. I think that the reason I’ve had such a wonderfully long career is because not only do I have a lovely voice , but I am always creating different shows in various venues. One week I’m performing a cabaret show, the next week I’m doing an act that goes with my new memoir, Howdy Hollywood, the next week I’m singing jazz at a winery and the next week I’m in a studio recording someone’s original songs. I’m always interested in new challenges and if it doesn’t present itself to me…I invent it myself. I love meeting people, and that has also led me into many wonderful events in my life. This year has been especially fulfilling because I’ve been hired to do my Howdy Hollywood memoir show for all kinds of groups and I’ve been very successful in selling my book. I’ve been featured in 3 magazines lately and was on Good Morning Texas singing last August thanks to The Hyatt Regency including me in their friendship marketing campaign.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First, work on your craft so you’ll be ready when your time comes. I pamper my voice and keep it in shape by vocalizing daily. I learn new songs and create lots of new shows. I can sing many different genres. Second, actively meet new people on a regular basis. I see everyone as a business contact…be it an audience member I could invite to my gigs or as someone who might hire me or recommend my band. I’ve never met a stranger!
Keep the word out on your gigs and projects. I love social media and try to find funny and interesting ways to engage my friends and fans online.
Third, keep a positive and friendly attitude. Nobody wants to hire or work with a sour puss. Spread the joy and enjoy the ride!
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
Ageism can be a challenge. If I’m not being hired, it’s usually because of my age…not my talent. Also, it’s getting harder and harder to find venues hiring jazz or cabaret or even contracting private parties. I’m reaching out to new venues, but I need to try harder. I need to meet some club owners and get them to hear my band. Or I’d like to meet some booking agents/offices that have contacts for our band. I’d love to work with a marketing specialist to help me utilize all the great press I’ve been getting lately to make that transfer into work.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lohrmusic.com
- Facebook: Bill and Peggy Lauren Lohr Music
- Linkedin: Peggy Lohr
- Youtube: Bill Lohr channel
- Other: Peggy Lohr on Tik Tok
Image Credits
Peggy Lohr performing her Howdy Hollywood memoir show.
