Jan Potrykus, mother of Sam Potrykus (Boston Compass/Boston Hassle)

Wow. Having a kid for a musician is really exciting. I think I had far more fun and continue to have more fun than any soccer mom in America. Sam started playing rock shows when he was 12 or 13 and that’s what we’ve done for year. We absolutely love it!

Have you seen the commercial where the dad is doing something that the mom wouldn’t approve of and the phrase gets repeated, “Don’t tell mom,” have you seen that? I think Sam was the originator of that phrase. When he and his brother were out a couple of times, I know there was an occasion where they were trying to outrun a tornado and of course they told dad but said, “Don’t tell mom.” I learned then and there, never ask what’s happening on tour. Years down the road when everyone is safe and sound, they tell me these things. Had I known at the time I’m sure I would have lost years off of my life. I think as a musician, that was the one thing that Sam did to this day still gives me chills. Every time they go on tour I’m just on edge, I’m always really glad when it’s over and they are home.

Touring is just one of Sam’s favorite thing to do and I always hope he comes through this way because we have had so many bands come through and stay with us. It’s really fun! Just last month, I think it was Guerilla Toss, they were all going to come through and stay at our house. We know all of them, we were excited! Then just about two o’clock in the morning, Sam calls me to say another band was coming to stay. The next thing I knew I had eleven musicians all over my house! And we had a great time! I think that was the most we’ve ever had at one time and we took a commemorative photo of all of them on my front steps and Sam posted it to Facebook saying, “Bringing 11 hippies home to Mom, always a highlight of tour.” It sort of sums up being the mom of a rockstar. The best part is that the fun doesn’t stop. Music is forever, music is for your whole life!