Songwriter Sanctuary’s May Concert Welcomes Gayle Skidmore, Tim Flannery, and Jackson Wagner

Songwriter Sanctuary San Diego returns on May 29 with an evening of original local music featuring three-time SDMA winner Gayle Skidmore, baseball-legend Tim Flannery, and country crooner Jackson Wagner. Hosted by Jeff Berkley at Normal Heights United. Doors 6:30 p.m., Music 7 p.m.

Our Pre-Show Pantry Jam will kick off at 5:30 p.m. for attendees who want to arrive early with unopened/unexpired food or gently used clothing for the community pantry, fridge, and closet. Unplugged pre-show entertainment will be provided on the “sidewalk stage” by alumni artist Lauren Ong.

About the Artists:

Gayle Skidmore: Seven-time San Diego Music Award nominee Gayle Skidmore has written over 2500 songs since she began songwriting at the age of 8. Her natural ability and innate passion for music made her music career inevitable, and her tumultuous life has given her plenty of inspiration. Translating her experiences into song has been more than just personally fulfilling. Gayle Skidmore won Best Pop in the 2015 San Diego Music Awards, Best Pop Album for “Sleeping Bear” in 2014, and Best Singer-Songwriter in 2013. Classically trained on the piano from the age of 4, Gayle Skidmore also plays over 20 other instruments, including the mountain dulcimer, banjo, folk harp and balalaika.

Tim Flannery: Tim Flannery is a rare two-sport standout whose life has been shaped by family, baseball, and music—a “holy trinity” he’s never separated. A former Major League infielder and longtime coach, Flannery spent over three decades in professional baseball, including key roles with the San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants, where he was part of three World Series championship teams (2010, 2012, 2014). Alongside the game, Flannery built a prolific music career, releasing more than a dozen albums of heartfelt, roots-driven songs inspired by life on the road, love, and the pull of home.

Backed by his band, the "Lunatic Fringe", his sound blends country, rock, and bluegrass into a style that’s as honest as his story. Off the field and stage, Flannery co-founded the "Love Harder Project", a nonprofit dedicated to combating violence and bullying. After overcoming a life-threatening illness in 2020, he returned to songwriting with renewed perspective, releasing "Waiting On A Miracle" in 2022. Whether in the dugout or with a guitar in hand, Flannery’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to passion, resilience, and heart.

Jackson Wagner: Jackson Wagner is an Americana singer/songwriter based in San Diego, CA who blends elements of folk, country, rock, and blues together in a unique style that features guitar-driven jams and powerful vocals. Characterized by heartfelt and honest lyrics, Jackson's music offers insight into the life and times of a modern troubadour.

Event Details:

Suggested Donation: $10+ online or at door; optional “pass the hat” after intermission. No one is turned away for lack of funds.

All Ages: We do not censor our artists; please check out the lineup and make the best decision for your family.

Parking: Street parking.

Food/Drink: Sponsored by Babe Beverages and Duck Foot Brewing Company. Guests are welcome to bring their own food into the venue (please eat and dispose of waste respectfully). There are so many delicious restaurants within walking distance - feel free to grab something take-out and bring it in!

Accessibility: Our online RSVP form also includes an optional field where you can disclose accessibility preferences and/or requests.

For inquiries, media comps, sponsorship opportunities, or further info, contact Lindsay White at songwritersanctuary@gmail.com or visit songwritersanctuary-sd.com/about.

Visit: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/songwriter-sanctuary-may--2026

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