the dailypic 6067 yr17 223 Dan at 25

Yesterday my youngest turned 25. Dan began his birthday celebration where he was born to be — on a stage.
Saturday night, Ellis Paul played the Fallout Shelter in Norwood. Ellis is no stranger to the dailypic — I met him back in my Newbury Comics days, photographed him many times, had him to the barn, produced a couple of local shows with my friend Ray. Over those years, he got to know Dan, and they bonded over music.
Some texts this week led to Dan accompanying him on stage for 3000 Miles. Right before we left for the show, one last text from Ellis: tell Dan to bring his guitar.
We arrived, headed to the green room, and I got to hear them run through the song once — as if they’d been playing together for decades. Ellis smiled and said, “You got the job.” Even if the night had ended there, it would have been enough.
It didn’t end there. Last song of the first set, Dan excused himself from his Mom and me and headed out back. Then, in a way only Ellis can do it: “I got a dear friend and great songwriter — one of the best up-and-coming people in Massachusetts I’ve come across — and tomorrow is his birthday…. this is Dan Rice, y’all.”
First year teaching chorus and guitar. Writing incredible music. And now this.
Happy Birthday, Dan.

tr/trp