Sugarlanding

“Some believe in destiny and some believe in fate, but I believe that happiness is something we create.” –Something More, Sugarland

In 2009, I talked my aunt into braving the heat and the crowds to see an up and coming band called Sugarland at Jazz Fest. The duo had a few songs out on the radio, and I thought they were pretty good. Little did I know exactly how good they were and how much my life was about to change because of them. 

Christy and I in 2009. Sugarland in Atlanta.

I knew five minutes in that I was hooked. Jennifer Nettles literally has the voice of an angel, and Kristian Bush is her perfect counterpart. Even in the early days, their chemistry on stage was like no other. After their set, my aunt and I went around to the back of the stage where their buses were parked in hopes of meeting them. Although Jennifer and Kristian never came out, I did get to meet Annie Clements (who was then their bass player and now one of my friends and favorite design clients), and, of course, my friend, Christy. Clearly that is a friendship that will last a lifetime, and I have Sugarland to thank for it.

First time meeting Jennifer and Kristian. 2009 in Bossier City.

Fast forward nine years. Sugarland has taken Christy and me on countless adventures all over the country. We’ve experienced a Mexican “casino” and radio show in Bossier City (don’t even ask), road-tripped through corn fields all the way up to Wisconsin and back, went to the Houston Rodeo, stood in 100 degree heat in many, many Sugar Pit lines, and took part in multiple fan-based projects and events. At one Sugarland show, I learned about the existence of dry counties and ABC officers while drinking straight vodka from a contraband water bottle. (Y’all, I grew up in New Orleans…we don’t know what that means here.) I’ve watched them receive every CMA, ACM, CMT, AMA and Grammy award since. I own every album, most of which are autographed. Let’s just say that Jennifer and Kristian (as well as the entire band) got used to seeing us cheering them on with the rest of their crazy diehard fans.

“Here we are. We’ve come so far. Let’s leave it better than how we came, don’t be afraid to change. Our love is still the same.” -Still the Same, Sugarland

Sugarland’s fanbase, AKA the Sugarcubes, are like a family united around a common love. I can’t even begin to tell you how many people I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know since following Sugarland. Even over the band’s six year hiatus, we kept in touch with each other over social media and celebrated together when the band reunited last year. It’s incredible to have such a strong connection with people all over the country, and even the world, all because of music. We cried together when the stage collapsed in Indiana, and laughed together (and continue to laugh together) at all of Jennifer and Kristian’s antics. We came together as one to present Sugarland with the Little Miss Project (created by Erica Bjork), as a token of our appreciation for all that they’ve done for us by sharing their music. We supported both Jennifer and Kristian as solo artists, but were completely overjoyed when they announced the Still the Same Tour which wraps up this weekend. Not only would we get to see our favorite artists perform again together on one stage, but we knew we’d all get to see each other again for the first time in a long time. The three shows Christy and I were able to make this year were pure magic.

Everyone belongs in Sugarl&.

And in case you haven’t figured it out by now, Jennifer and Kristian are two of the kindest people you will ever meet. From that first time nine years ago when I nearly hyperventilated (thanks Gail), to the last time a few months ago, meeting Jennifer and Kristian quickly became like getting together with old friends. It’s hugs all around, they ask about our lives, and often comment on some of my latest artwork. (Yeah, I almost died when Jennifer told me she keeps up with my work on Twitter.) They always make sure to spend extra time with us and are genuinely happy to see us. It’s very special to have a band care about their fans that much.

“Every breath, it, happens just once.” –Lean It On Back, Sugarland

This is what Sugarland is all about.

I always tell people that I mark every milestone in my life with a Sugarland song. Their music has been one of the true constants in my life, and it continues to be there every time I need encouragement to keep at it or to be reminded that I’m not the only one going through a rough moment. If you ever see me with my headphones on, smiling with my eyes closed, it’s likely that I’m back in Sugarland, reminding myself to “find what it means to be the girl who changed her mind and changed the world.” (And for the Sugarcubes reading this, yes, I find myself doing the dance without even thinking about it at this point.) “Settlin’” will always be my mantra, and it has never failed to remind myself to put my big girl panties on and deal with life as it comes.

Jennifer and Kristian (and Scotty, Brandon, Thad, Travis, Tim, Amie, Gail and Michelle), I know y’all hear this all the time, but thank you again for everything you do. Whether you realize it or not, you are more than just another country band. Your music brings people together in a way that no other band’s does. Your lyrics are empowering, constantly reminding us what is truly important. You are good people, and it shows in everything you do. My life would certainly not be the same without you in it. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you guy and I plan to be there for as much of it as my budget allows!

“We’re making moments that we won’t forget and feeling ones that haven’t happened yet.” –These Are the Days, Sugarland

PS-Hey, KB, you totally owe me three guitar picks!

My Sugarland collection.