2024 was a standout year for Sarah Blacker, a Salem resident who was named Performer of the Year at the New England Music Awards and released two EPs.
Her “mostly live” studio EP, Horizon Line, was praised by the Boston Herald as “tender, defiant and genius.” She also released Live at Rockport Sundays, recorded live by invitation at the home of legendary folk singer Tom Rush after he heard her and her band perform in concert. The EP is part of his renowned Rockport Sundays series.
Blacker, also a licensed mental health counselor and a board-certified music therapist, isn’t shy about exploring the soulful depths of human existence in her lyrics. She frequently blends irony with hope in her songwriting, as well as in the stories and jokes she shares onstage.
Often compared to Joni Mitchell for her striking vocals and unique harmonic twists, Blacker infuses her music with elements of classic rock and jazz, showcasing impressive guitar, ukulele, and vocal prowess.
Her band includes her husband, spiritual song leader Aaron Z. Katz (Percy Hill, The Dejas) on drums, percussion, and harmonies; Phil Selesnick on keys, bass, and vocals; and singer-songwriter Mark Lipman, an expressive arts therapist, and Danielle Lovasco, a music therapist, on backing vocals. Their performances allow Blacker’s soulful pop sound to shift into jazzy improvisations, transporting listeners from moments of inner peace to gut-punch grooves.
Opening the show is Cara Brindisi, a board-certified music therapist and former contestant on The Voice.
Blacker has previously been named Female Performer of the Year at the New England Music Awards, was a Boston Music Award nominee, and was recognized by CBS Boston as an Artist to Watch. She has also performed alongside Jefferson Starship, America, Paula Cole, Richard Thompson, and Sara Bareilles, among others.
When she’s not making music, Blacker serves as “dog momager” to her Instagram-famous dog, @brucefromsalem.
Blacker will perform at Me&Thee on Friday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m.