Expect connection, craft, and a whole lot of heart at Songwriter Sanctuary’s May 30 edition, featuring in-the-round performances by Surrija, The Lovebirds, and Yo Jonesy Jones. Hosted by the legendary Jeff Berkley and Normal Heights United. (4650 Mansfield St. Suggested Donation $10. All ages. Doors 6:30 p.m., Music 7 p.m.)About the Artists:SURRIJA is a new music project by Jane Lui that plays with asymmetry and electronic treatment of her roots in classical training and singer songwriter roots. The self-titled album features drummer Matt Chamberlain (David Bowie, Perfume Genius, Fiona Apple). The Album and “How Do I” were nominated for Best Recording and Best Pop Song at San Diego Music Awards 2021 & 2022, respectively. “Southern Winds” earned Best Music Video at Dublin Web Fest. She began her songwriting days in San Diego during college, with three previous albums recorded and produced by Aaron Bowen. She has a large body of work and subcribers on her YouTube Channel, Luieland (29K subs), and continues to explore soundscapes with a cult following. Most recent contributions: featured vocal as Opera Evelyn on the soundtrack of "Everything Everywhere All At Once." She was co-music director and originating cast member of "Cambodian Rock Band" by Lauren Yee, (National Tour, Off-Broadway Signature Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, OSF). She was composer for "All’s Well That Ends Well" (OSF 2019) and "Secret In The Wings "(Coeurage Theatre). Surrija has worked with Son Lux, Matt Chamberlain, Tom Brosseau, Felicia Day, Kate Earl, Kina Grannis. Her work has been featured in Earmilk, Ladygunn, Bearded Mag, CNN, Virgin America In-Flight, Huffington Post, UPPERCASE mag.The Lovebirds are reuniting for a special one-night only appearance! You may remember this Kerrville New Folk award-winning folk/pop duo (active 2010-2016) featuring friends, turned romantic partners, turned bandmates, turned exes, turned friends, turned forever family Lindsay White and Veronica May. Falling somewhere on the female duo scale between The Indigo Girls and Tegan and Sara, The Lovebirds shared the stage with many other humans that make music, such as Steve Poltz, Tristan Prettyman, Bushwalla, The Lumineers, Jack Tempchin, John C. Reilly, Glen Phillips, Sara Watkins, Susanna Hoffs, Berkley Hart, Raining Jane ft. Jason Mraz, and more. Recorded at Berkley Sound, their three "LPs Nutsy Pants," "And a One and a Two," and "Breakup Shmakeup" chronicle the rise and fall of their musical and romantic partnership: sprinkled with joy, peppered with chaos, and drenched in harmonies that won't quit.Yo Jonesy Jones is a multi-talented songwriter and musician celebrated for her ability to seamlessly blend Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Reggae into dynamic performances. Known for her captivating stage presence and innovative artistry, she delivers experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. Born into a family of musicians, Jonesy began her journey as the lead vocalist of her family’s gospel band at just five years old. Her natural talent blossomed as she mastered the trombone, percussion, guitar, and tap dancing. Today, she is based in San Diego, California, where she collaborates with elite musicians and performs at prestigious venues, including Seaworld, The Rady Shell, Disneyland, The Belly Up, and top-tier casinos, wineries, and festivals across the state. Jonesy’s performances are unforgettable, often featuring her signature hoverboard and trombone routine—a true testament to her creativity and showmanship. Her mission to spread the “Live in Peace” (L.I.P.) message through music is the driving force behind her career. This movement began with her acclaimed band, Crowned Jewelz, which was voted Best Band at the 2018 Port City Secondliners Honor Awards. Her latest release, "Jonesy 3:16 Crowned Jewelz" Album, exemplifies her artistry and ability to connect through music. In her words, “Crowned are my thoughts, and Jewelz are the words I spit,” reflecting the deep authenticity she brings to every performance. Currently, Jonesy is finishing up a brand-new feel good album, packed with soulful grooves, powerful lyrics, and genre defying sounds . The project leads with the release of the heartfelt single “Southern Soul,” dropping in June 2025. With a feature on the cover of Mobile Bay Magazine and a reputation for high-energy, soul-stirring shows, Jonesy is a powerhouse performer who captivates audiences with a diverse sound and innovative stage presence. From intimate venues to grand stages, she ensures every show is a celebration of life, peace, and music.Event Details:Location: Normal Heights United Church4650 Mansfield St, San Diego, CA 92116. Thank you to our generous venue partner for sharing this beautiful space with the local music community!Time: Doors 6:30 p.m., Show 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. ish.Suggested Donation: $10, but please be generous in your support of these top tier talents whose creative work is their livelihood. 100% donations go to artists. No one turned away for lack of funds.All Ages: Bear in mind we do not censor our artists so please make sure to check out the lineup and make the best decision for your family.Parking: Street parkingFood/Drink: Beverages for small purchase, thanks to our sponsors! Duck Foot Brewing Company. Guests are welcome to bring food into the venue (please eat and dispose of waste respectfully)Accessibility: Please direct any venue accessibility requests to Molly mollyrose@nhunited.org.Remaining 2025 Season Schedule:*subject to change June 27 - LGBTQ Pride Show!- Anna Ballew- Kimiko- In MazesJuly 25- The Bella Lunas- Espi- Miranda RamosAug. 29- Claire King- Hailey Wetzel- Lexi PulidoSep. 26- Joe Summers- Grainne Hunt- Helena HolleranOct. 24- Shea Givens- Kevin Cooper- Anthony CullinsDec 5 - Holiday Edition!- JT Moring- Cara Cormier- David Beldock and Peggy WatsonFor inquiries, media comps, or further information, please contact:Lindsay White: lindsaywhite.music@gmail.com Songwriter Sanctuary on InstagramNormal Heights United Church on Facebook / Instagram
