How I Started Playing Spoons (Abby the Spoon Lady)

[@thewoolverine4420]

I don't know if you remember, but way back (about 20 years ago) you taught me how to play the spoons in a diner in North Carolina, I think you were a teenager, I was about 9. I actually still play sometimes for fun. I am so happy for you and your growth. I hope the world brings you as much joy as you brought me at a hole in the wall diner while waiting for my breakfast. I cherish that memory.

[@fredflintstone5776]

Good for you…play as much as you can and want to.

[@garrieleepeck8753]

That's a beautiful story !!

[@HeatherDFolks]

Beautiful memory!

[@garrieleepeck8753]

She seems such a lovley down to earth .humble women . People I like .got beautiful hearts kind , caring

[@-QUEEN-B-]

Aww that's a sweet memory

[@stacyaaron2935]

They need to make a movie about you life. You are a very interesting person with lots of stories to tell. I absolutely love you and your personality!

[@jessicadavis2079]

I second that 😊

[@mylabelle6436]

I agree

[@Eibmozluver]

🙋‍♀️ Me too!

[@amycummingsirishdancemom8467]

Yes. I agree.

[@godisgreatalways7418]

I agree!

[@GabrielsTears]

You are amazing!! You remind me of a broken cup that has all the cracks fixed with pure gold. You are unique and have a beautiful soul. Let your light shine so everyone can see how amazing you are!!!

[@dylanbatchelor9434]

Well said 😊

[@lucy0537]

@@dylanbatchelor9434 Yes indeed!!

[@francesbruno8445]

Singer Leonard Cohen said that ' it is through the cracks that the light gets in.'

[@martinheath5947]

That's beautiful

[@Allegra11]

GabrielsTears that’s a really beautiful thing to say

[@joycecarroll3783]

My family happened to be traveling through Asheville a few years ago when we accidentally caught you busking with a group of very talented musicians. As a Tennessee musician, and someone who does restoration of old and new instruments, I was thrilled to see you tearing it up on the spoons! I couldn't stop smilin' for days.

[@kimberly2579]

I think you are so awesome! Love you..your living your life how you choose, so freeing❤️keep on keeping on. God Bless You!

[@dirkzink9204]

Spoonlady has had a hard life

[@stacib.363]

​@@dirkzink9204But she's living it on her terms.

[@classicrocklover5615]

I love Abby's voice - she would do well as a voice actor or as a narrator for books, videos, etc.

[@michelleflo3527]

She would be great on public radio too

[@Galloway278]

💯

[@Seibling]

that's exactly what i thought too!

[@WayOfHaQodesh]

Definitely. Felt the same very first time I heard her speak. Natural and so calming and relaxing.

[@dzbznz9392]

What a wonderful woman...so down to earth and no meanness. A perfect example of the type of people that keep the world worth staying in!

[@stevannahmercer7921]

Sooo true. She's my role model & a true inspiration! ♥

[@yohey6685]

Made me cry. Now this is good content. Finally someone real with passion who isn’t totally focused on money and vanity.

[@shug1356]

Pasithea Paradise 🎯

[@Bishop472]

A real lady who's simple 👍

[@roseypeach8363]

Pasithea...we should share Abby on social media : )

[@JustMe-qo7yw]

Absolutely , Abby is the real deal holding within her what is much lacking in todays world. The Truth & A true that radiates around her.

[@brightpurpleviking]

Exactly! A better and more real person than most.

[@miaibanez1753]

Love the calm and control of her voice ~ I'd love to have her for my friend.

[@spraguesprague]

Well, that's the heart & soul of what is wonderful about the internet. We just have to persist in spite of the negatives. How else could we be getting to know one another in this fashion? It brings us closer to being the world-wide family that humans were meant to be.

[@rhonnachurch6929]

I ditto being friends with Abby!

[@terrynn107]

I could be having a miserable day and when I come across a street performer my whole day changes. They make me feel so uplifted! Thank you ALL ❤️❤️❤️ much love!

[@Msjan1011]

Abby, you are a talented lady..subscribed..& hope to meet you one day!

[@izzypelletier4308]

Wow! I'm a french canadian writer and I really hope someone writes your story someday! You must have so many interesting stories to tell. It hasn't always been easy for you, I imagine but what an amazing life you've lead! You did it your way, as the song goes, Not too many people can say the same.

[@My5ajz4life]

I watched that one and needed your encouragement. I haven't smiled a real smile in a long time . Not because of how I feel about my smile but because of how others throw judgment on me.

[@brianbond7856]

@Bodhi Sattva me as well I've lost all of mine do to radiation treatments and at my work I was talking with my supervisor about young kids doing drugs and I stated that I didn't drink or do drugs and he didn't believe me I asked why and he wouldn't elaborate but I believe it's my lack of teeth

[@My5ajz4life]

@Bodhi Sattva me too. I was hit in my face leaving a very bad situation with someone I trusted and loved . My front tooth was damaged and my insurance wont provide a fix only to take it out . Ty .

[@My5ajz4life]

@Bodhi Sattva see she held more power in her journey than those who judge poverty , disease , violence. Abby is more than music she is a walk about a story of more than life it's a journey into ones spirit to survive. I been surviving since a real young age and come through it a decent but adventurous soul. Hope you feel a little loved today by a random stranger ❤😁🙏

[@Mamagr5l66]

It's awesome she helped preserve the street buskers in Ashville! It's a shame other cities do not preserve as well. Had Nashville been like Nola, no doubt they would have even more tourism. People judge street performers and it is sad.

[@My5ajz4life]

@@Mamagr5l66 I am from the south near NOLA and it is so important to preserve this art and culture.

[@dawulpertingerofstarland5257]

I adore a real person before any celebrity. You are perfect the way you are and an inspiration. And a new sub!

[@lilithssilvermoon3208]

DaWulpertinger OfStarland me too!

[@VocalEdgeTV]

Me too.

[@deha11mo]

Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried and rose again to save us from eternal judgement and give us eternal life if we believe Him. Only God can save us and freely give us new life inside forever.

[@MrDavidelliottjr]

A movie of you would be awesome. You are so well spoken. Love the stories.

[@kati-ana]

Abby is a self taught spooner - makes her talent even more impressive .

[@nancymitchell4369]

Your testimony to your life is inspiring in so many ways. You're a great public speaker, have a talent, can fall and get up and know who you are. Most people never get to that point in their lives. Good for you!

[@cecewonderwoman4617]

Your story telling of your life is as captivating as your spoon playing. You are so very talented. Thank you for sharing. ❤️

[@carebear8316]

Cece Wonderwoman she’s awesome! People like her are few and far between these days.

[@marybarratt2649]

I think it is really sad to deny street musicians the right to play. I love buskers and it is an absolute joy listening to talented people. You are such an inspiration. Found you on here by accident. Love the music and love your philosophy. Tku Abby.

[@dionnet24]

ABBY, You're one of the BEST spoon players in the world.

[@BrentNortham]

Hey Abby, I know this is years later, but I’ve raised my kids in Asheville, and your performances are genuinely central to our lives here. There’s something so honest and real about you and your music, and our family, walking downtown in Asheville, encountering you, would not be the same without the experience. I told my girls, who have often danced and delighted in front of you, you are looking at quite possibly the most accomplished musician you will ever see. We love you, and we hope to see you again soon.

[@cory708]

i have so much respect for your talent. and i could sit and hear your stories all day long. you have more of a sense of life than 98 percent of us. your a treasure abby. so real. so talented .thank u from canada

[@bsweet6573]

“Shine on Abby the Spoon Lady”💕🌸☮️

[@alexcerdasprudente8304]

Ēñ

[@EleniBelle]

You're the most non-bs person I've ever seen probably. Such a pure, genuine vibe. So refreshing to see! ♥️

[@lfex4]

You are seriously a gorgeous woman. You made my heart skip a beat. Keep doing what you’re doing and being your true authentic self ♥️

[@jefvarnadore2267]

“I mailed myself to Denver” sounds like a good name for a song

[@barberclown7446]

And a title to the movie!

[@warwagon]

I loved that!

[@Seibling]

this lady has a say. she really has. all my respect goes out to abby & her comrades. and one day i will hold an audio book in my hands with abby as the narrator. she does not only know the spoons but also she has the voice power to entertain people by telling her stories. keep on going strong abby, we love you. ❤

[@martyjunior8313]

Can't wait to see you on the road someday and still love the blanket behind you brings back memories of my grandmother thank you

[@cathyt144]

Marty Junior its a beautiful quilt. Its called a 9 patch. Very simple pattern. Of course time consuming to quilt if youre hand quilting. Most people do everything on a machine these days. I do both. Depends on the pattern im doing.

[@celinee.9562]

@@cathyt144 thank you for sharing with us 🌺 i am glad to read your message as i am admirative of this quilt, it makes me appreciate it even more.

[@martyjunior8313]

@@celinee.9562 Are used to go with my grandma when I was a kid to a house where they did it by hand and watched them do it I may be a guy but i thought it was very cool how they put so much time and how hard it was to actually do it and they seem to enjoy it no matter what. I also cut out patterns for her and watch her put it together and then take it over to a lady's house and they were put all of them together and then put to backing on it I thought it was very cool

[@roxanne6380]

I wish she was my Mom ( r.i.p.).

[@SuzanneDeniseB]

@@cathyt144 I love quilts! Unfortunately, sewing is not one of my talents :)

[@TheJaxsonjack]

Dan Baird has a song called "Cumberland River" about Nashville: "They'll lock you up for a guitar and tin cup since they opened that Hard Rock Cafe!". Hell, that song's 25 years old!

[@theunveileressreginaecaeli5772]

What an amazing individual. We need more like her. The world would be a better place.

[@mallory7142]

I just discovered The Spoon Lady late tonight, and now I can't go to bed because I'm watching all the videos.Love you Abby! It's so much fun watching you play the spoons. Thanks you for keeping street performance alive, and for being so real.

[@daisyscott2387]

Me too!

[@Dionydejesus]

We don't deserve people like her! The world is blessed if we can find at least 5 people like her in our country.💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@robertmashburn8330]

This Lady, is amazingly fresh, and very real. It’s always awesome to meet people like her. What you see is what you get! I think She’s Beautiful, inside out!! Would Love to meet her some day.

[@pavelsmom1089]

A whole lot of talent, personality and compassion packed into one little lady! GOD Bless you Abby!! ❤

[@aghauler1964]

Hi Abby. We can never be homeless, Just Houseless. Safe travels, Ill be watching for your new bus. (Trucker Mac)

[@xxeh]

Wherever I've laid my hat was my home, not so long ago.

[@nadiahill4928]

Wonderful talented lady; can't stop smiling when you play. Thank you for sharing your story xx

[@RobinJayneArtTickles]

I love you Abby! Your playing is amazing. I live in NC not too far from Chapel Hill. I feel honored that you were close at one time. I wish you the best life has to offer, keep playing, you are a shining star in this old world. Good luck always and I'll be watching for you!

[@newchannel-dv8pc]

You remind me of the quality of voice my grandfather had. The voice quality that compels one to listen. Very pleasant, soothing and I love it!!

[@jessicabennett7759]

I've been hooked since yesterday when I watched your video about self image. You. Are. Amazeballs. I like get entranced watching you.

[@charactermeringue]

Why does KZbin only have a thumbs up for like and not a heart for love.

[@haveaniceday7767]

❤️❤️❤️

[@onedickhead]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@Nipa10]

Good ❓

[@rebaperkins8128]

What an interesting life youve led...character girl thats what u got....i feel like youre gonna be remembered for years to come musically!

[@adfgfds]

One of the best stories I've heard in a long time. I look forward to more of your videos and updates on your life :)

[@JLtortoise]

For one reason or another your videos always leave me smiling. That is a valuable thing in this world. Thank you.

[@meganlovesdisneyandcrafts4780]

You are an incredible woman!😊 You are truly LIVING LIFE, and striving to make a change! I really hope people look past appearance and take time to truly listen. ❤️

[@troyhagen587]

God Bless You, LOVE Your Stories. STAY SAFE.

[@troyhagen587]

@@nimoeuristides Yes grow up with horse's.

[@jameswoods7551]

Such an inspiring performing lady..the world needs more of you

[@jeanetteconway6058]

Yes,!!!!

[@tomgrafstrom3019]

You're such an inspiration to people who have been through some hard times

[@robertc2204]

You are so inspiring and amazing. You literally been there done that. Love you so much!!

[@thepeople980]

True diamond in the rough and a blessing to listen to. Thank you!

[@Buckle02]

She's definitely a diamond that wanted to stay coal!! May appear rough around the edges but beautiful all the way through

[@andrea439]

Trent Zimmer Agreed. She is her own person!

[@Eibmozluver]

I just hope some day I have the pleasure of watching you play in person. You are such an amazing woman. I could listen to your stories all day. ❤️

[@cram9300]

Listening to you, i cant help but think how awesome you are and your path. You are trying to save part of our culture. Thank you for being who you are and sharing it!

[@eddiewebb7206]

Im just down the road from you. I live in Rockingham, NC. You may have come through the town of Hamlet on your travels which is a neighboring city. A couple hours south from Chappell Hill. Im retired and play a little music myself. I love your stories. Please look me up if ever in the neighborhood. My name is Eddie, most everyone knows of me here. If you ever need a place to drop-in you know that you are welcome. Keep on keeping on...

[@Jennifer-zb4dq]

Her voice is so soothing. Love her vibe.

[@thomaslang7634]

I lived in Asheville for a year. There's awesome people beautiful scenery. I love what you guys are doing. Keep up the good fight and work.

[@PaulaCWard]

I've lived in Asheville for 20 years and street performers are the life blood of downtown. Thank you! I hope we see you back soon! Please keep us posted on your travels and music!

[@todyoung6858]

Miss Abby, you are such a wonderful blessing. I'm so glad I found this page.

[@angelaglenn3664]

just amazing. i love angels in heaven. i hope to see so much more of you Abby. i feel young folks have no idea what true music is anymore. you are where it comes from. the sound.

[@brendawillard6059]

Come to Salem Missouri

[@halfpint673]

Abby! Your such a inspiration! My daughter traveled on and off as you did.Such a great way to meet unique people. Thanks for sharing! :)

[@catherinebartonn]

I met you at a party in Asheville and you were great! Your story is so interesting and I love to hear it! It is very inspiring and I hope you are doing well. It was so cool to sit down and tak to you.

[@MH-dm4qc]

You’re such a sweet and beautiful soul ❤️❤️ Im so thankful that you’re willing to share your story and experiences with us❤️ may you be blessed with happiness and health

[@LouiseFranksArt]

My grandma taught me how to play the spoons when I was a kid. I loved it - such a simple instrument, but so captivating too, when it's played well like you do. You have a beautiful soul, don't ever give up!

[@aldeal9037]

Abby you go girl love your music and stories everyone needs to take folks for what they are not what they think they should be !

[@wailelealoha]

LOVED hearing this story from your journeys in life! Wonderful that you made a difference in the ability for musicians in Asheville to perform--thus blessing others and making a way for your/themselves! Hope to hear more from you!

[@sevalso]

I'm so glad that I discovered your channel a few days ago . I wish you all of the Best Energy on your future travels , and hope to meet you some day

[@crissiesummerlin386]

Don’t wait too long to tell the story about your first crowd. I’m waiting and anticipating!

[@rshock]

I have been homeless, street performers have often lifted my spirits during that time and still do. I live in Denver which is a great place for street performers. Thank you for posting!

[@thomassmith1655]

Sounds amazing, wish I could have walked with you on that journey. Very few things work out the way we plan, but the things that happen instead....that's the good stuff. Love you Abby. Stay free spirited.

[@gkhooya4520]

I was immediately spellbound by your presence, a precious gift you share, beside your skills as a musician. I guess that comes, when you follow only your rhythm and do not follow so much the rules of others. You tell a lot without telling a story. Hardships and the sweet taste of freedom.

[@discerninglight1998]

Very cool! I wholeheartedly support you in this endeavor! I remember watching street performers in Venice beach while growing up in California! Still living here 50 years later. Street performers inspired me as a child to be creative and express myself through performance anyway I chose! I used to create shows for my neighbors with my wagon full of items. As an adult I traveled through Europe staying in hostels and earning money in the streets as we traveled. It was a great way to meet locals and make friendships. Bless you for your passion and activism for protecting this beautiful expression for our communities!💖

[@felicias9265]

You are one azing woman Abby❣️ Im so glad that i found you here on KZbin. You brighten my day. Oh how i wish you came to Swede🇸🇪 xx

[@3n0ugh]

Love how you let us in, you're such a neat lady! I wish I was closer and we could sit and chat. You're such a free spirit! Stay free

[@lawrenceoleary4589]

Can you imagine being so resourceful that you teach yourself to play spoons and make money. However, she is beyond gifted. No matter what she would have taught herself to play, she would have excelled. I love her story...Absolutely, there has to be a movie about her Please

[@billbush1270]

I'd enjoyed your music for a couple of years when I ran up on your discussion videos last night. Your heart is big, your mind is sharp, and I hope you can continue to enrich our lives across the country. One of my former students has a degree in classical guitar, now has 4 music jobs and a part-time academic gig, and is happy to be able to play. I'm going to recommend he watch your videos to reinforce his happiness from music in his chosen life.

[@lindarichmond3199]

5 minutes ago I saw you on television and 3 minutes later I went on KZbin to find you I think you are absolutely amazing and fascinating and I think you're beautiful what a talent you are🤗🤗🤗

[@sarahjane9008]

Just discovered you on KZbin, your so incredibly talented, beautiful and interesting. Keep being amazing!❤🥄❤🥄❤🥄❤🥄❤

[@steveguernseyii7323]

Such a amazing artist. Inspiring story. I always have enjoyed the sound of spoons being played. Very underrated and fading art that should be enjoyed by all. Love and respect. Keep doing what you love.

[@rondurawood757]

You are so amazing .no worries .I really enjoy your videos .keep on doing what you do...

[@wade5941]

Never thought I'd fall in love with a "spoon lady". You are AWESOME and are the epitome of the human spirit.

[@tiegrsidesignsandstudio4794]

Thank you for your effort for keeping street performances legal. I am on the other aide of the state, but we hope to travel back to the mountains again next year and spend some time in Asheville. Growing up near Woodstock, NY really helped me appreciate street performances - I even participated in some drum circles there before they paved "The Green". I'd love to see what Asheville has to offer.

[@MisplacedPixie]

I gave up on having heros years ago when I matured enough to realize they were almost rotten with fakery through and through and were nothing but a hollow handpuppet personality that had zero to do with who or what they really were but here, in you, I do see a hero I can look up to and be awed by and strive to be more like. Here in later years of my life I am able to see the true diamonds that have gone through extreme pressures and at times buried deep in murky areas only to come out into the light as a shimmering beacon as strong and true on the inside as the out side and I thank you so much for that! I have felt such despair as to have quit having simple dreams and simpler daydreams but you have brought some of that back for me. Bless you sister!

[@gc1914]

😊 👍💯°

[@theDeitz]

I'm with you ..... Frank Zappa has a song about the Hollywood type @ kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnWxZXl9jtaCrc0

[@HigherWaysWoman]

best Hero to believe in & hold dear is "You". Be Your Own Hero. I know it is a very lonely spot....in 2015 I was slammed very hard by the evil that surrounds Me...they who prey on children & women to constantly be mouthing body parts. Seems one must go outside from where they live in order to find the ppl that existed in the 60's n 70's...you know that mentality where we knew we were on our own & ppl respected & helped each other. What is happening now is such a shame...I quit dating several yrs ago...after a long time I gave it another try..it was brief....seemed all the guys are looking for is a servant...no real life partner. I was moved by your words...relate well & was deeply moved. Bless You, Brother....may you have what you seek & be blessed by all you meet...are able to have what you need & where ever you go always plant &/or leave some of your own seeds.

[@marcogil6665]

@@HigherWaysWoman I cannot find words to express my appreciation and thanks for your comment,it wasn't directed for me and still it helped me see life in a different way, i am going through a hard time and i believe i will eventually be at peace with my mind. Thanks! virtual hugs.

[@goodshepherd3438]

I love you You are so smart the way u speak from a 75years old lady. I just love way u play with the spoon. My dad who pass away in 1986 sang and play with spoon

[@donnacalamaro9824]

Not only have I fallen in love with ur ethics history and music but I'd love to see how you renovated ur bus!! Love n light be urs spoons

[@TRae-hw2gn]

You are INCREDIBLE

[@sarahrickman6609]

I like you. Your a cool lady. I played the Tambourine, The Uke, today picked up the washboard. Soon gonna be some spoons. You've inspired me musically.

[@cyoungso]

You're a great speaker. You should do a TEd talk

[@joemelton81]

It would be the best TED talk! Love you Abby!

[@Gherkinlife]

Yes!

[@LaIndia1717]

Omg yaaaasss!!

[@ginger8655]

She's not a NWO shill. Shut up.

[@ProctorsGamble]

Definitely

[@jackandthebeanstalk4542]

Wow, that was such an inspiring talk you just gave. I'm touched by what you had to say. I come across you by chance and love the way you say things from such a real perspective. Thank you sincerely.

[@3234MRDV]

I just love how you look while you're playing those spoons. I can tell that you play from the heart. Keep spreading happiness Abby! Thank you for what you do. You are beautiful, and talented to boot!

[@melissanorman0707]

You are a captivating storyteller! I would pay to hear you tell a tale from your life, I'm sure you've seen rough times, yet you still have an inner shine that's absolutely beautiful.

[@13BUDSTER]

I think you are out of this world. I have known about spoon playing since the 1970's, I don't ever see it around much. You made me raid the utensil drawer for a pair, I taped the handles together after fumbling for a while and I am super proud about how they sound and work, (they got a perfect curve in them). Now I need to learn rythmn, you have it in spades. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@miafarrin7919]

Thanks for sharing! I love learning about people, all of us interesting in our own unique way. You must have witnessed quite a lot and I’d imagine, not all of them, very pleasant encounters. Wishing you happiness and great interactions as you journey on into your next life adventure! Let me know if you’re going to be anywhere in the northeast, would love to see and hear you! Much love ❤️

[@GodsVibes]

You are a real Inspiring Spirit Abby, love your Energy.

[@jasonmorris7433]

Love your 🎶 such cool soul ...peace

[@ssanchez7195]

Gawd I wish I could meet you. Your heart is soooo pure. Thank you for being YOU! Phenomenal✨

[@brianwright7580]

Sounds like you've had a very interesting life Abby, I just subscribed to your channel I can't wait to hear more about what you've been through. Have a good day 😊💛

[@kms437]

Abby needs a movie type documentary made about her. I bet if u write it Abby someone out there will produce it. Maybe a college. But a full length story would be great. We love you Abby

[@mistybowling7284]

You sound like a very interesting, inspiring, genuine & brave person. I would be frightened to just take off cross country by myself. You go girl 💪

[@JEsusCHriSTamen666]

Hello ma'am I love the way you play the spoons, amazing and rare talent and very inspiring. I am your big fan, love from India❤❤

[@ProctorsGamble]

A thumbs up from the other side of the world!

[@enriquepequeno4328]

By

[@joechavez3477]

You’re a great performer! I would like to see more videos about your life and adventures!

[@Nantosuelta]

You should write a book about your experiences traveling, would be really interesting

[@juliewerner9592]

I love the quilts in your backgrounds so much…..bet they have some great stories to tell as well ❣️

[@cherylkruisheer3365]

Was thinking the same thing.

[@kellymeyer667]

Sending lots of love and appreciation for you and your talent... Safe travels!

[@J.A.7]

YOUR TALENT IS AMAZING AND YOUR VOICE IS SO SOOTHING AND CALMING!! 💖💖MUCH LOVE FROM ALABAMA.💖💖

[@redflower1000]

Such an inspersation to so many, can't wait to see where your bus takes ya!

[@call_me_cooper]

I’m not entirely sure how this will come across, but I mean it in the most sincere way. - You strongly resemble my youngest sister who passed away on Thanksgiving of 2017. Man. I loved listening to your story, but I also felt so much emotion, and couldn’t help but think of Melissa. I have no idea why the internet decided to randomly toss in a video of yours, but I’m so, very glad that it did. Thank you for sharing your story and your talent. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll randomly find myself waking down a street that you’re busking! That would be insanely wonderful! I’d do my best not to make it awkward, but I’d probably ask for a hug!