Emma & James Wrap Up a Memorable Run at the Pinal County Fair in Casa Grande

We just wrapped up an unforgettable run at the Pinal County Fair at the Casa Grande Fairgrounds—and wow, did Casa Grande show up for us.

James and I performed three days at the fair: Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. We were also joined by some incredibly talented friends on stage—Nathan Littell on drums and Mike Rothra on bass. Having them with us brought a whole new level of energy to the set, and we’re so grateful they jumped in.

Now let’s talk about the heat. It was HOTTTTT. Sure, we like to think we “heated the place up,” but the actual temperature hit 109 degrees. By Sunday, it had “cooled down” to a breezy 103, and we even got some cloud cover—perfect timing for our videographer, Clayton Lindley, who came out to film and help us capture the day.

But honestly, what stood out most wasn’t the weather. It was the people.

Casa Grande is my hometown, and it’s also where James and I first started finding our footing in the local music scene. That same supportive spirit was everywhere at the fair. Even in triple-digit heat, the people of Pinal County showed up with so much kindness and encouragement.

A huge part of that local music community comes from Tiffany Thomas, who runs YRHAP (Your Healing Arts Project) Open Mix in Casa Grande every second Saturday. In our opinion, it’s one of the best open mics around—super welcoming, non-intimidating, and supportive for both beginners and seasoned performers. Tiffany has a gift for creating an environment where people feel comfortable, encouraged, and like they truly belong.

That spirit of community means a lot to us, and it was felt all throughout the fair.

Pinal County Fair Casa Grande Surprise Guest

We also want to give a special shoutout to our good friend and photographer, Mark Nowicki, who brought his friend Kristen all the way down from Scottsdale to see us on Sunday, March 22. Mark told us, “We wanted to swing by while we were in the area,” which still makes us laugh. That’s real support, and we love you, Mark.

Thank you to everyone who came out, braved the heat, supported live music, and reminded us why we do this. Casa Grande will always have our hearts.

About the Author of this Post

Emma – vocalist, lyricist, and co-creator of Emma & James Music. Classically trained, emotionally grounded.

Emma is the vocalist and lyricist behind Emma & James Music.

Classically trained 20+ years in piano and dance, she blends structure and soul to create lyrics that hit home. Emma thoroughly enjoying the realm of vocal work for 4 years, courtesy of James.

When she’s not writing songs, Emma works as both an online holistic personal trainer through Emma Mattison Fitness, as well as a mentor for other trainers and health coaches in the online space, through this husband and wife team's Academy of Superior Online Coaching (ASOC).

Outside of work and music? She’s probably working out, brainstorming, or carrying around her precious ferret, Bruce.