Homer attracts tourists of varying interests, personalities and talents. While many of these visitors simply pass through leaving nothing of themselves behind, some, like musician Papa Crow of Marquette, Mich., enthusiastically share their gifts with the community.
Papa Crow, otherwise known as Jeff Krebs, concentrates on the craft of children’s music. He gives a free performance at 11 a.m. Monday at the Homer Public Library for its Get Ready for Kindergarten party, an event to help children starting school prepare for the big day on Tuesday.
With friend and former Homer resident Jan Dullinger, Papa Crow also does a concert for adults from 10 a.m.-noon Sunday, Aug. 28, at The Sourdough Express.
Krebs, who has a number of solo albums for older audiences, turned to children’s music shortly before his first child was born.
“When I was expecting with kid number one I started exploring music I might share with a newborn,” said Krebs. “By the time my first boy was born I had already written a few songs.”
As it turns out, before his first child was born, Krebs not only had a few songs written, but also had plans for a self-recorded album, “Things That Roar,” which came out in 2011.
In fairly quick order, two other EPs and another album followed, all receiving recognition or honors from children’s media across the United States, eventually landing him the Silver Honor from the Parents’ Choice Awards.
His 2014 album, “Full Moon, Full Moon,” gains much of its inspiration from the wilderness and wildlife surrounding Krebs’ rural Michigan home near the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula. There he lives a lifestyle that he believes will connect closely with that of Homer kids.
“I live in a woodsy rural beautiful area in Northern Michigan. I know I’ll have much in common with the people of Homer and I can’t wait to meet them,” wrote Krebs.
Chances are, Homer kids will be happy to meet him as well. His show promises to be fun, lively, and as Krebs emphasizes, loud.
The musician says the performance will be very interactive, keeping kids involved through questions and back and forth singing.
“They’ll be loud and they’ll be laughing,” said Krebs.
For more information about Papa Crow and a music sample, visit Papacrow.com.
WHEN:
• 11 a.m. Monday, Get Ready for Kindergarten Party, Homer Public Library. Free
• 10 a.m.-noon, Aug. 28, with Jan Dullinger at The Sourdough Express.
Mattea Peters is an intern writing for the Homer News.
