Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1527954
SIGNATURE MONTANA | 45 In 2023, the duo had the privilege of recording their album Losses at Dreamland Studios under the expert guidance of renowned musician and producer Josh Kaufman. is year, Jamie and Shaun achieved a long-held dream, four years in the making, by being invited to perform at Mountain Stage in California, sharing the spotlight with legendary artists such as Ramblin' Jack Elliot. Despite their growing fanbase, increasing opportunities, and rising success, the Fort Benton duo remains dedicated to their cra, continually creating, touring, performing, and raising a family together, with the understanding that their pursuit of a musical life is an endless journey. "It's wonderful to dream about 'making it,' but at the end of the day, you goa be writing songs and performing. at's the work, and the work is the thing," Shaun said with a chuckle. "It's grounding to recognize that one day you're siing next to Ramblin' Jack Elliot on a stage, and the next you're in a brewery in a town you've never heard of, playing for two people. So why are we doing it? Because we love it! I love singing and playing my guitar, and I love doing those things with my partner," he passionately explained. Jamie added, "I've learned to trust that people are at our shows because they want to be, so we just have to be there with those people and embrace that experience." Jamie and Shaun articulate a fundamental truth that all professional creators understand: there is no singular "we made it" event, show, album, or opportunity. Success in the arts is an ongoing journey that demands continuous effort, creativity, and performances. To that end, e Lucky Valentines have several goals and are embarking on exciting projects. e duo plans to release a series of singles from their extensive repertoire of unrecorded but frequently performed songs. ey are also planning a tour to New York and are earnestly working on a long- Photo Courtesy of Shaun and Jamie Carrier Influenced by Montana's country roots and a later love for folk and Americana, Jamie's music journey took a transformative turn when she first heard Patty Griffin—an inspiring moment that forever shaped her path as an artist. Jamie and Shaun weave together folk melodies, tight harmonies, and a whole lot of love, turning life's bittersweet moments into a beautiful acoustic journey filled with sadness, joy, and wonder. (L-R) Country music star Suzy Bogguss, Red Ants Pants founder Sarah Calhoun, and The Lucky Valentines' Jamie and Shaun share a moment together at AmericanaFest in Nashville—a gathering of talent, passion, and mutual admiration.