In 2001, Carolyn Wonderland lost her apartment lease when her landlord fell ill, and she decided to live out of her van. For two years, the internationally heralded blues artist that had already won the respect of Buddy Guy, the admiration of Bob Dylan and had been awarded Best Female Vocalist by the Houston Press Music Awards, lived in her vehicle. She was what many consider homeless. To Wonderland, she was “van full.”
It’s that ceaseless optimism that Carolyn now works hard to share with others going through tough times. And, on Wednesday, October 6, Carolyn will perform a benefit concert for the Texas Homeless Network’s annual conference at the Executive Surf Club in Corpus Christi, TX with proceeds benefiting Texas Homeless Network (THN) the non-profit organization helping those who help Texans in need. She’ll also be accepting the award at the 2010 Texas Homeless Network Annual Conference being held at The Omni Hotel in Corpus Christi.
John Paul DeJoria, the billionaire founder of hair-care products Paul Mitchell Systems, chooses the recipient of his namesake award personally. He chose Carolyn Wonderland for her support to many charities and is her advocacy for those experiencing homelessness. Mr. DeJoria was also homeless for a period in his life and went on to achieve great success in business. The John Paul DeJoria Award has been given to those who give back. Last year, the award was presented to Jewel.]
Two days later, Wonderland will take the stage at this year’s Austin City Limits Festival at 2PM on Friday, October 8. Hailed a “Blues Guitar Goddess” - Carolyn Wonderland's instrumental abilities also include acoustic and electric guitar, electric mandolin, slide guitar, trumpet and piano. She’s known to incorporate elements of country, swing, zydeco, surf, gospel, soul, and occasionally cumbia into her musical mix. She has received numerous awards including: Best Female Vocalist - 2009 Austin Music Awards and Best Blues Band - 2009 Austin Music Awards.
