Shaun Hopper at Fleur de Lis Cafe

The first time I heard Shaun and Regina was a few years ago, he played guitar while she sang her heart out. It was Third Friday, and they were in front of the Chamber of Commerce.

We heard them and stopped dead in our tracks. Fans were born.

We've since burned holes in all of Shaun's CDs. This charming Georgia native plays fingerstyle guitar. You can see him perform at Ruth Eckerd Hall, or a neighborhood bar—and everything in between.   

Regina's creations—the Musician's Co-op and Fleur de Lis Cafe, on Main Street in Safety Harbor around back from Tapping the Vine are unique and wonderful.

The Co-op helps musicians at different points in their careers. Maybe music lessons, maybe booking a gig, maybe changing an alternator, maybe a warm meal and a couch to sleep on.  The cafe presents the finest artisan foods to enjoy on the patio, or purchase to bring home.

On Friday night, Regina presented a wonderful evening. For only $25, 26 people joined Shaun Hopper "for dinner". There was an artisan spread including imported aged cheeses, local honey and jam, Shaun's favorite Ezekial bread, sliced meats, creamy brie and fruit. Guests selected an entree, and there was a silent auction of art and fine food.

Wine and beer was available throughout the night at Tapping the Vine. Their wine selection is delightful, and the service is friendly.  We felt like we were at a friend's house for dinner and music. Only the friend was a gourmet chef, and the musician is a young guitar legend.

For the performance, we all shifted to a small room filled with couches and comfy chairs. This intimate setting is in stark contrast to the large venues he plays like Ruth Eckerd Hall or The Capitol Theatre.

He has played for, or with, BB King and Stevie Wonder.

Yet, on this special night it was more like friends hanging out and chatting while sharing good food and wine. Shaun is so friendly and funny that you instantly feel like you've known him forever. Yet, when he begins playing, you know you are in the presence of greatness. He brought his mentor Mike to the microphone for a few amazing songs. His songs range from Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah (all the verses), to traditional Irish Jigs, originals, classic rock, classical music. You check check out him playing "Superstitious" for Stevie Wonder in the video above.

Contact Regina for the schedule of musician's dinners and for reservations. They fill up fast and this is a treat you don't want to miss!

https://www.facebook.com/shaunhopper.fanpage

www.shaunhopper.com

https://www.facebook.com/#!/regina.aamacha

https://www.facebook.com/#!/tampacoop

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"It's always an adventure!!!" CHEERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!