I wrote this earlier today but haven’t had an internet connection until now…
Sitting in the vehicle driving to the next gig. Feeling exhausted and trying to muster up a bit of energy to plan and play my set for tonight. I realized that I can’t just play a show and move on from what happened at BVJ last night. What I really want to be doing is staying in Camrose. I think I may fly in next week so that I can..I don’t even know what I can do to help???? But I know my instinct is to be there.
I am recounting how the day went from blue grey skies in a minute to such a devastating and destructive storm.
10 metres from the stage
I was out signing at the autograph table and someone said it looks like a storm is coming. I turned around said goodnight walked into the trailer and boom! Wind and sand took over the area. The circus tent outside my window flew off like it was made of paper and big metal poles flew around recklessly.
People were yelling and organizers were trying to grab hold of poles..
Then I looked over and right in view was the main-stage being thrown around and tumbling down.
We got pulled out of the trailer and left to run through rain and sand and find our own way.
We caught up with one of Billy Currington’s band members who was shaken up and worried about their bass player who was hit by something onstage and missing.
Me and an 11 year old embraced while she shook in the rain and we tried to come up with a plan as to where we should all go.
A whole bunch of the people on the grounds ended up drenched dirty eyes full of sand and scared waiting for an update in the trade centre, the safest structure on the grounds.
We were all told not to panic and told to take a seat where the hypnotist stage was..surreal
Anyways it was and is all very weird and sad and yet again I was reminded of how precious every moment is while we are here.
I know this sounds selfish but I keep thinking that I might have made a human connection with the person who died and the people who are injured. I sang with them up on that stage or worked with them. And it is so upsetting that they are hurt and for one person their life has ended. I still can’t believe it.
While we don’t know who it is yet, I guess the only thing I can do tonight is have a moment of silence during the show I’m doing tonight and sing to the people in Fisher River and keep everyone affected by what happened at Big Valley Jamboree close to my heart and in my prayers.
xo Jessie
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9 Responses to “What happened last night”
Jessie, thanks so much for staying on top of the situation. You were the one who broke the news to me. You are an awesome person, and I really appreciate your concerns about the people. All the way from Montreal, I am touched by this story.
Keep up the great & positive work.
From a good fan,
Lewis (aka on Twitter, sakohawi)
Jessie,
I wish you well tonight during your show. I read your words and understand what you mean about what else someone can do in a moment of weakness. I am still in shock of what actually happened that night. All I can say is I am truly remembering to appreciate the little things right now. Remembering to take a moment at a time and enjoy it. Things happen for a reason as crazy as this may sound. We must find what happened at this show and really think about what that is. For me - it’s taking that extra time for my family that I forget to do thanks to work. Thanks again for your compassion yesterday, it was great meeting you before the madness and yes the little things you did for everyone on your path yesterday was appreciated.
Rene Rondeau
“the video guy for KGTV”
Perhaps what you might be able to do if you go back is visit with the people who were injured and try to spread some of your positive personality.. ?
Jessie,
I thought what you said to CTV News was so powerful. You gave every single detail you could give, and you held up pretty good, seeing as it was only mere minutes in between the accident and the interview.
I dont think I am the only one who thinks so, either. Did you know that CBS News used your statement in their report? Aswell as an American country music station! You have a way with words, as i have told you before.
God Bless, Ms. Farrell;
Jordan, : )
Jessie,
I kinda teared up while reading this. I read your facebook status that said you could hear a pin drop, that’s incredible that in a venue full of people, not one person said something. I hope all went well with your concert last night. I’m happy your safe, and Majority of the people there are safe, and even though they’re injured they are still here. Even though I could barely hear you on CTV Saturday night I caught it again before work yesterday. I’m proud of you! I wouldn’t have been able to give an interview right after.
Bobbie Jo
Jessie,
You are such an amazing and kind person and me and my family thanks you for helping me out. if it weren’t for you i don’t know what i would have done. Thank you soo much! My family kept saying “awee it looks like you have a new best friend” and thats what it honestly felt like. You are the nicest person i have ever met. I now think of you as a best friend.
OH WOW!!!
you are amazing and just to let you know…i am honestly that 11 year old girl that you consoled at the concert that night. you are soo amazing and it really helped alot
Best friends lol <3
~CAYLIE~
Thanks everyone for their comments. Caylie, thanks for writing! Lots of love,
xo Jessie
thank-you for commenting back and thaank-you sooooo much you helped alot. By the way you did an AMAZING performance. And all of my family says thank-you. you made a difference for me that day and thank-you.
~caylie~
xoxoxo
Hiii Jessie!!!!!
Did you see that episode of Dedicated yet?
I sent you a dedication and i was talking to Elissa from the show. She said that she talked to you at the CCMA’s. Hehe well just wondering if you saw that episode. You can email me. Here is my email…imaprincess97@hotmail.com
Lots of love
~Caylie~
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