Meet Stephanie Louise | Rhythm guitar (and sass!) for Ramblin Sweethearts

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Louise and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I definitely believe that a mix of my musical family roots and my upbringing inspired who I am today. I grew up in Kailua, HI back when it used to be a quiet little beach town. I was an only child until my mid-teens, and my single Mom worked multiple jobs, so I relied heavily on using my wild imagination and listening to music to entertain myself. By the time I was a teenager, I was really into punk rock music and became immersed in the local scene. I made pins and patches for the bands and would go to all the shows, but I always wanted to be the one playing the music too. I learned to play bass guitar from my Dad, who is an amazing bass player, well enough to practice with some friends… though it turned out that wasn’t the instrument for me. I stayed heavily involved in the music scenes; from punk, metal, rockabilly, etc, always faithfully supporting the bands and deep down still wanting to be a bigger part of it. It wasn’t until years later when I met my husband that I decided to pick up his guitar, purely out of boredom, when I instantly felt that fire ignite in my soul… I had decided at that moment to put my all into finally learning this instrument.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Thank you! What’s interesting is how our band was formed – it wasn’t something we’d ever talked about prior, it kind of just happened. I had been playing guitar for only a couple of years when my husband surprised me by calling me up onstage to perform in front of a VERY packed bar. I was terrified, but he knew it had always been a big goal of mine and he knew I was ready. From there, I began to perform with him and his band more until he said it was time we form a new band together, and there you have it! The Ramblin’ Sweethearts came to be.

What’s wild about it all, is to think… when I first picked up that guitar, I had no idea it would lead me to performing live regularly, writing music, recording and filming a music video in a well-known studio (Signature Sound studios)… it just blows my mind.

My take on all of this will sound cliche, but it’s true; just follow your heart and don’t be afraid to try something new. The payoff is very rewarding!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, so many! We try to cover at least a few of the following whenever someone visits, so here goes. Definitely have to check out Leo Carrillo Ranch, Old Town, Balboa Park, San Diego Harbor, Liberty Station, La Jolla Cove, Belmont Park, Gaslamp, Coronado… for food, we’re up in Carlsbad, and my favorites are Jeune Et Jolie, Campfire, Casa de Bandini, Gregorios, Stone Brewing, VG donuts, Better Buzz coffee, and Handles ice cream. If you’re into tiki bars, False Idol and Bali Hai are a must. Encinitas is great for night life and has a diverse range of bars/saloons; we’ve played some of our favorite gigs there! For shows, the Belly up and Casbah are cool venues and we’ve watched some of our favorite artists there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband! JP Hennessy; he is a very talented musician and has been my motivator in every way.

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