My City July 2022

MYMUSIC

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Braun has simultaneously pursued excellence in furni ture building and music which has served him well ever since the pandemic began curtailing his touring schedule. It has still not returned to pre-pandemic levels. “It became important to increase my income from furniture building when the gigs started drying up and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the response,” he says. Braun also began a series of Facebook Live webcasts entitled “Live from the B Hive” from his living room eight days after Michigan’s rst coronavirus case was reported. Some viewers left tips via PayPal. Paul Keller expects Braun’s musical growth to contin ue, even after decades on stage. “Mr. B is always searching for the next great song to learn and actively working on his next awesome original composition,” he says. “Mark’s original music resonates with people because his songs have a bluesy earthiness that everyone can relate to.‚ey also contain interesting compositional ideas beyond the blues that keep listeners and performers engaged and excited.” ‚e remainder of 2022 will be busy for Braun, who married wife Wendy in the winter wonderland of Porcu pine Mountains State Park in January. He will continue performing before having both of his knees replaced and intends to recover in time to play a series of long-post poned concerts in the western U.S. this fall. Next year, he hopes to nally perform in Europe again. ®

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