No Invitation Needed

How a Zydeco groove, a birthday month, and a whole lot of love reminded me to keep moving

As May winds down, I just want to take a moment to thank y’all for the love and energy you’ve shared with me throughout my birthday month. Whether through messages, hugs, beats, beers, or just vibing with my words here on Substack, I’ve felt it all.

I’ve had the chance to celebrate this time in real life with my music family and, most meaningfully, with my partner in all things my wife Lina. She’s the quiet force behind so much of what I do, the one always encouraging me to go after the things that light me up. Being on this journey with her is the greatest gift I could ask for.

And yes, I do stretch my birthday out a bit more than most… but if you’ve been following along, you know how I see it: EVERY day is a celebration.

If anything I’ve shared, some stray thought from this weird, wired brain of mine has sparked something in you, made you pause, made you smile, or reminded you to keep going… then that’s a gift I get to give, and also one I receive.

Thank you for walking with me. For showing up. For being part of this ride. Because, as I always say…The journey is the destination.

Astro Joe Garcia

Made You Move - Astro Joe Garcia

Earlier this year, a Zydeco band opened for Bayou Junction, and I was hit with one of those unexpected jolts of joy. The kind that doesn’t ask for permission. The rhythm was contagious, the floor was alive, and I caught myself moving before I even knew it. That night sparked the song “Made You Move.” It’s my way of capturing what it feels like when something music, a breeze, a look, a moment pulls you into motion without asking. And really, that’s the heart of what this birthday month and this journey are all about: showing up, staying open, and letting whatever stirs your soul move you.