Melissa Etheridge: A Day in the Life of an Icon
Melissa Etheridge has always been a voice of authenticity, expressing her feelings through music that resonates across generations. At this stage of her life, she finds herself basking in liberation. As she prepares for her new album, set to release next year, the theme of setting oneself free reverberates through her lyrics and conversations. In a recent chat, she shared her experiences on the “Yes We Are Tour” alongside the Indigo Girls, describing it as the ultimate girls’ night out, notably enriching the lives of families across generations.
Embracing Momentary Joys
Etheridge reflects on the essence of her music, highlighting an important lesson: “It’s a lot about letting go of trying to make everything perfect.” She emphasizes the importance of personal happiness derived from within rather than through external expectations. This soulful realization is evident in her artistry and day-to-day life in Los Angeles, where she resides with her wife, Linda Wallem, and their children.
Perfect Sunday: A Walk to Remember
Starting her ideal Sunday at 7 a.m., Etheridge loves to step outside for a morning walk, taking in the charm of her Calabasas neighborhood. This hike, roughly a mile and a half, sets a positive tone for the day, allowing her to appreciate the community that envelopes her family.
Coffee with a Cause
By 8 a.m., Etheridge and her family enjoy a coffee stop at La La Land Kind Cafe in Calabasas. This café’s unique mission, employing foster kids, resonates with her values. “You can ask for ‘extra love’ and they’ll say, ‘Oh, we love you!’ when we leave,” she recalls with warmth. Following this, she heads to Hank’s Bagels, picking up bagels for the kids to ensure everyone starts the day satisfied.
The Drive Downtown
At 9 a.m., the Etheridge clan hits the road, with music filling the car — they love tuning into the Chris Stapleton channel on Sirius XM, as well as previewing Etheridge’s upcoming album. The ease of Sunday mornings allows them to navigate the downtown area without the usual traffic woes.
A Culinary Delight
Arriving at Girl & the Goat for brunch by 10 a.m., Etheridge thoroughly enjoys the experience. “Chef Stephanie Izard has these biscuits and chicken — incredible,” she explains. The vibe is laid-back, with Etheridge relishing a long, leisurely brunch that allows for the wondrous integration of food and family.
Exploring Art Exhibits
By noon, it’s time to embrace creativity as Etheridge and her family set out to explore downtown L.A.’s vibrant art scene. They often seek out new exhibits, having recently enjoyed installations like “Luna Luna” and the King Tut exhibit, allowing culture to infuse their day with inspiration.
A Quick Stop at Atrium
Around 3 p.m., post-exploration, they swing by Atrium on Topanga Canyon Boulevard — a favorite cannabis store for the family. Known for its quality products, they pick up some essentials for the evening ahead, planning to unwind at the movies that night.
Harmonious Guitar Moments
A visit to Norman’s Rare Guitars in Tarzana stands as a highlight of Etheridge’s day. Although it’s not open on Sundays, she revels in the thought of trading stories and guitars with the legendary owner, Norman Harris. Etheridge describes the store as a “musical playground” filled with instruments that have storied histories, from Tom Petty’s to her own.
An Evening at the Movies
As the day winds down at around 5 p.m., the Etheridge family heads to Cinépolis, a cozy movie theater that offers dining and drinks. This week’s feature is the latest Marvel installment, “Thunderbolts,” which turns out to be a hit with the kids. Etheridge appreciates the effortless enjoyment of not having to cook or clean on this Sunday.
Indulgent Dessert Adventures
At 8 p.m., Etheridge makes her way to Black Market Liquor Bar in Studio City to indulge in a deeply satisfying dessert — the famed deep-fried Fluffernutter. She describes the experience as an unforgettable treat that perfectly rounds out the day.
Stargazing and Reflecting
The day culminates around a fire pit in her backyard at 10 p.m., where Etheridge enjoys the night sky with loved ones, relaxing while reflecting on her life in L.A. “Every time I come back, I’m like, this feels like home,” she muses, emphasizing her deep connection to the city where she has spent over four decades.
Melissa Etheridge’s perfect Sunday is a wonderful tapestry of community, family, art, and music, revealing the warm and relatable heart of a woman who continues to embody authenticity and resilience.
