JIM SPEESE: THE "OG" ROCKER

MoonGroove isn't solely the product of one person's vision; it's the result of a collective effort, a group of dedicated individuals who nurtured a spark into a thriving festival. Among these key figures is Jim Speese, an "OG Rocker" who has played a vital role in shaping MoonGroove's heart and soul.

Jim Speese | MoonGroove Founder

From Community Gigs to "What If..."

Jim's connection to MoonGroove is deeply rooted in the local community and its musical spirit. His band had been a part of the area's event scene, providing the soundtrack to gatherings and celebrations. The inception of MoonGroove itself arose from a casual, late-night conversation among friends. As Jim recalls, "the group of founders just had a conversation one night—maybe around a bonfire—and we just kind of said, 'what if?'"

That simple "what if" ignited a creative fire that would eventually illuminate the MoonGroove stage.

Navigating the Logistics

The journey from idea to reality was paved with logistical challenges. The founders faced the complex task of coordinating numerous moving parts: stages, equipment, musicians, the public, marketing, and the festival grounds themselves. Jim describes it as "a lot of juggling," emphasizing the delicate balance required. "If we dropped one ball, the rest would fall. We had to keep reminding each other of things we'd forgotten!"

The Evolution of MoonGroove

From its humble beginnings, MoonGroove has experienced significant growth, evolving into "its own entity." Jim reflects on this transformation, noting that "the family is growing. A small fun idea for a festival has become a very big—and still fun—event." The festival's expansion speaks to the power of that initial vision and the dedication of those who brought it to life. 

Musical Moments and Future Vibes

As a musician himself, Jim has a deep appreciation for the musical talent that graces the MoonGroove stages. While he cherishes the experience of performing, he also finds immense joy in "seeing and hearing and meeting other musicians." When considering the future of MoonGroove's musical and artistic direction, Jim's aspiration is simple yet profound, "just that it continues to grow and keep the same vibes," he says.

This desire to preserve the festival's unique atmosphere underscores the importance of maintaining its core identity as it evolves.

The Reward: The People

For Jim, as for Eli, the most rewarding aspect of MoonGroove lies in the people. "Honestly, the people. I love these guys," he shares, highlighting the strong sense of camaraderie among the organizers and attendees. This emphasis on community resonates deeply with the spirit of MoonGroove, where connections are forged and shared experiences create lasting memories.  

Jim's story is an integral part of the MoonGroove narrative. As an "OG Rocker," artist relations liaison, and performer, his contributions have been essential in shaping the festival's identity and fostering its growth. His passion for music, community, and the MoonGroove experience itself is a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit that defines this unique event.

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