How quickly time passes. A little less than a year ago I made my first trip back to Nashville in nine years, that time with a different purpose. Now, a little less than a year later, I'm back in town to attend my second Americana Music Festival and Conference with the hope of building on the relationships I made over the past year and share more of this great music with the world as best as I can.
Over the past year, I have had the great fortune to meet (via e-mail at least) some really wonderful people in the music business. It's an honour and pleasure for me to have them include me on their distribution list, as well as sharing this space with their artists and fan base. These good folks are far more involved in the music business than I am (at least at this point in my venture), and I deeply appreciate the time they take from their busy schedule to consider writing, conversing and working with me on this space.
I would like to make a quick note to say there is a wonderful international contingent here this week, as we have fellow Canadian artists Whitehorse, The Deep Dark Woods and Belle Starr all playing here at various times, as well as Aussie/Canadian Chris Altmann participating in several showcases featuring a whole stable of Australian artists. Stay tuned as the week wears on for a daily update of the happenings in Nashville, as the 12th Americana Music Festival and Conference gets officially underway tomorrow.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
The Rise of Blackberry Smoke
I have to admit I feel a certain kinship toward Blackberry Smoke. I came to be aware of this band shortly after I started writing this blog two years ago. Blackberry Smoke were the subjects of the first ever concert review that was posted on this site. Looking back on that review and as I read it now, I think it's safe to say that a lot of growth has taken place over the course of those two years, for both parties.
The progression of Blackberry Smoke's career is a pleasant one to see. From their first releases of "Bad Luck Ain't No Crime" and "Honky Tonk Bootlegs", this Georgia band has been working hard to bring that classic southern rock sound that has been missing for nearly a generation. Not since the days of Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Marshall Tucker Band, the Outlaws and the Allman Brothers has a band this talented and versatile hit the national stage. "Good One Comin' On" and "Shake Your Magnolia", from their album "Little Piece of Dixie" should be mandatory listening at 5:00 on your way home from work. They are anthems to welcome the weekend, especially on a Friday night.
However, even with their more rockin' leanings, they still caught the attention of two of the most classic voices in country music and had these voices join them in studio to record a country music classic. In turn, this version became a country classic all over again. "Yesterday's Wine" is widely recognized as one of the biggest hits in George Jones' career. Blackberry Smoke received the equivalent of a blessing from the Pope when Jamey Johnson and George Jones himself performed on the track which appears on the deluxe version of "Little Piece of Dixie." It is a brilliant piece of art, and one which captures the musical genius of all three artists.
I suppose it was then inevitable that perhaps the most musically open individual in country music, Zac Brown, would catch on to the little southern rock outfit from his own home state of Georgia. Adding Blackberry Smoke to the roster of artists on Brown's Souther Ground record label is a natural fit. There is no hotter artist in music right now than the Zac Brown Band. And in my mind, there is no smarter business man/artist than Zac Brown. He knows a good thing when he sees it. And he knows how to promote. The effects on Blackberry Smoke's career have been immediate. Appearances and television specials on CMT. Bookings at major country music festivals such as Jamboree in the Hills and the Havelock Jamboree (their first foray into Canada, I believe). All this has ultimately paid off with their highest debuting album on the Billboard Country Album Chart, as their latest release "The Whipoorwhill" debuted at number 8 last week.
The alliance Blackberry Smoke has forged with Zac Brown I believe is only scratching the surface. I also believe they have found their natural recording home on Brown's label, Southern Ground Artists. He won't ask them to change their sound to conform to radio airplay. They've come this far with their current sound and no radio hits, it's only a matter of taking their music to the masses now. Brown's high profile will do that, without compromising the music. It is a beautiful arrangement, and the fruits of that labour are only beginning to be realized. The bounty is still to come.
Click here to learn more about Blackberry Smoke
Click here to purchase a copy of "The Whipoorwhill" and "Little Piece of Dixie"
Click here to listen to "Yesterday's Wine" and view other videos
The progression of Blackberry Smoke's career is a pleasant one to see. From their first releases of "Bad Luck Ain't No Crime" and "Honky Tonk Bootlegs", this Georgia band has been working hard to bring that classic southern rock sound that has been missing for nearly a generation. Not since the days of Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Marshall Tucker Band, the Outlaws and the Allman Brothers has a band this talented and versatile hit the national stage. "Good One Comin' On" and "Shake Your Magnolia", from their album "Little Piece of Dixie" should be mandatory listening at 5:00 on your way home from work. They are anthems to welcome the weekend, especially on a Friday night.
However, even with their more rockin' leanings, they still caught the attention of two of the most classic voices in country music and had these voices join them in studio to record a country music classic. In turn, this version became a country classic all over again. "Yesterday's Wine" is widely recognized as one of the biggest hits in George Jones' career. Blackberry Smoke received the equivalent of a blessing from the Pope when Jamey Johnson and George Jones himself performed on the track which appears on the deluxe version of "Little Piece of Dixie." It is a brilliant piece of art, and one which captures the musical genius of all three artists.
I suppose it was then inevitable that perhaps the most musically open individual in country music, Zac Brown, would catch on to the little southern rock outfit from his own home state of Georgia. Adding Blackberry Smoke to the roster of artists on Brown's Souther Ground record label is a natural fit. There is no hotter artist in music right now than the Zac Brown Band. And in my mind, there is no smarter business man/artist than Zac Brown. He knows a good thing when he sees it. And he knows how to promote. The effects on Blackberry Smoke's career have been immediate. Appearances and television specials on CMT. Bookings at major country music festivals such as Jamboree in the Hills and the Havelock Jamboree (their first foray into Canada, I believe). All this has ultimately paid off with their highest debuting album on the Billboard Country Album Chart, as their latest release "The Whipoorwhill" debuted at number 8 last week.
The alliance Blackberry Smoke has forged with Zac Brown I believe is only scratching the surface. I also believe they have found their natural recording home on Brown's label, Southern Ground Artists. He won't ask them to change their sound to conform to radio airplay. They've come this far with their current sound and no radio hits, it's only a matter of taking their music to the masses now. Brown's high profile will do that, without compromising the music. It is a beautiful arrangement, and the fruits of that labour are only beginning to be realized. The bounty is still to come.
Click here to learn more about Blackberry Smoke
Click here to purchase a copy of "The Whipoorwhill" and "Little Piece of Dixie"
Click here to listen to "Yesterday's Wine" and view other videos
Friday, August 10, 2012
Say a Prayer or Two for Randy
As a kid who spent most of his teen years in the 1980's, it was out of the ordinary (or so it seemed) to be a country music fan at such a young age. While most kids my age were rockin' out to the hair bands of the day (think Poison, Twisted Sister, and the like), I was happy listening to Conway Twitty, Eddie Rabbitt, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton and George Jones. If I wanted to put some rock in to my life, I would fire up the Alabama records. Country music seemed to be on the fringe of popularity at that time, at least in my opinion, as I look back upon those days. But in 1986, things were about to change, and this change led directly to the next step that brought country music to the world conscience, and it remains there to this day.
If Ricky Scaggs opened the door just a crack in the early 1980's for a newcomer to start making some headway in Nashville, Randy Travis left the door splintered as he stormed through in 1986. Randy was seemlingly what Nashville wanted at the time -- good looking and talented, with a pure, soulful country singer voice and best of all, he was YOUNG. The country music industry hadn't experienced as youthful a country singer in nearly a generation and it was time to work their magic and make young Randy Travis a star. And it worked. It worked in spades.
With the top ten success of his second single, "1982", Randy Travis quickly went from unknown newcomer, to country music's biggest superstar seemingly overnight. His debut album, "Storms of Life", was honored as album of the year at the annual Country Music Association awards and the Academy of Country Music in 1986 and 1987 respectively. His follow-up album, "Always and Forever", afforded even bigger hits and bigger album sales. Most importantly, at least for the Nashville music industry, they now had their superstar that transcended generations. Kids my age, seemingly everyone, knew the name and music of Randy Travis. Superstar status, indeed. His face and music was everywhere. Travis' initial breakthrough led to the ultimate breakthrough of talent three short years later, with the infamous Class of '89. In case you aren't familiar with that group, the Class of '89 yielded the following talent: Clint Black, Travis Tritt, Vince Gill, Lorrie Morgan, Alan Jackson and the newest inductee to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Garth Brooks. I don't think I need to elaborate on the influence these artists have had on music over the last 20 plus years.
When considering all of this and the influence Randy Travis has had on modern country music, I find the events of his recent personal life very sad and troubling. It's one thing to get caught being intoxicated in public, it's quite another when one is walking around intoxicated in public naked. This speaks to something far greater than a problem with alcohol. This is a cry for help.
There will be many questions as to what's happening with Randy Travis in the coming days, weeks and months, and hopefully we'll find out some answers. One has to wonder what has precipitated this obvious downfall. Recent success with the Carrie Underwood cover of one of Travis' biggest hits, "I Told You So", of which Randy had more than a guest vocal on, seemd to bring Randy Travis back in the spotlight. Carrie even brought Randy with her for an appearance on American Idol, which introduced Travis to a whole new generation of fans. Perhaps the downfall can be traced to events shortly after that appearance. His long-time marriage ended ubruptly and not without bitterness. His recent 25 year anniversary album, and this is an uneducated guess, I don't believe has sold particulary well ... even though it's a great album. You would like to think that one could rise above these tough life events. But it can be very tough for some people.
What seems to be happening with Randy Travis is something larger, something bigger than the music. This is a man's life that is at stake. A lot of websites are discussing and reporting on these recent events, and the comments at the bottom of the story are what you would typically expect from certain elements of the public. You won't find comments like that here, at least not from me. It's the same reason I won't publish a negative album or concert review. I don't believe writing blog posts such as that are productive. Negativity only breeds more negativity. Instead, I will only write that I wish Randy Travis the best. I hope that he can get the help he needs, the help that he is crying out for. I hope he finds the support from his friends, fans and peers in the music industry that can help him get through whatever issues he's facing right now. And yes, I will be saying a prayer for him. Whether you love or hate his music, let's all hope he can turn his life around becaue after all, we're talking about a persons life.
If Ricky Scaggs opened the door just a crack in the early 1980's for a newcomer to start making some headway in Nashville, Randy Travis left the door splintered as he stormed through in 1986. Randy was seemlingly what Nashville wanted at the time -- good looking and talented, with a pure, soulful country singer voice and best of all, he was YOUNG. The country music industry hadn't experienced as youthful a country singer in nearly a generation and it was time to work their magic and make young Randy Travis a star. And it worked. It worked in spades.
With the top ten success of his second single, "1982", Randy Travis quickly went from unknown newcomer, to country music's biggest superstar seemingly overnight. His debut album, "Storms of Life", was honored as album of the year at the annual Country Music Association awards and the Academy of Country Music in 1986 and 1987 respectively. His follow-up album, "Always and Forever", afforded even bigger hits and bigger album sales. Most importantly, at least for the Nashville music industry, they now had their superstar that transcended generations. Kids my age, seemingly everyone, knew the name and music of Randy Travis. Superstar status, indeed. His face and music was everywhere. Travis' initial breakthrough led to the ultimate breakthrough of talent three short years later, with the infamous Class of '89. In case you aren't familiar with that group, the Class of '89 yielded the following talent: Clint Black, Travis Tritt, Vince Gill, Lorrie Morgan, Alan Jackson and the newest inductee to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Garth Brooks. I don't think I need to elaborate on the influence these artists have had on music over the last 20 plus years.
When considering all of this and the influence Randy Travis has had on modern country music, I find the events of his recent personal life very sad and troubling. It's one thing to get caught being intoxicated in public, it's quite another when one is walking around intoxicated in public naked. This speaks to something far greater than a problem with alcohol. This is a cry for help.
There will be many questions as to what's happening with Randy Travis in the coming days, weeks and months, and hopefully we'll find out some answers. One has to wonder what has precipitated this obvious downfall. Recent success with the Carrie Underwood cover of one of Travis' biggest hits, "I Told You So", of which Randy had more than a guest vocal on, seemd to bring Randy Travis back in the spotlight. Carrie even brought Randy with her for an appearance on American Idol, which introduced Travis to a whole new generation of fans. Perhaps the downfall can be traced to events shortly after that appearance. His long-time marriage ended ubruptly and not without bitterness. His recent 25 year anniversary album, and this is an uneducated guess, I don't believe has sold particulary well ... even though it's a great album. You would like to think that one could rise above these tough life events. But it can be very tough for some people.
What seems to be happening with Randy Travis is something larger, something bigger than the music. This is a man's life that is at stake. A lot of websites are discussing and reporting on these recent events, and the comments at the bottom of the story are what you would typically expect from certain elements of the public. You won't find comments like that here, at least not from me. It's the same reason I won't publish a negative album or concert review. I don't believe writing blog posts such as that are productive. Negativity only breeds more negativity. Instead, I will only write that I wish Randy Travis the best. I hope that he can get the help he needs, the help that he is crying out for. I hope he finds the support from his friends, fans and peers in the music industry that can help him get through whatever issues he's facing right now. And yes, I will be saying a prayer for him. Whether you love or hate his music, let's all hope he can turn his life around becaue after all, we're talking about a persons life.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
EP Preview: Buxter Hoot'n, "NA NA NA"
I've written several times in this space about how great it is to be involved in the Americana music community, even if it is in the somewhat limited capacity that is my involvement (at least for the moment). The connections you can make, whether it's personal or just a simple e-mail, is second to none in my opinion. The Americana movement is a grassroots movement, and there is a feeling of camaraderie that's electrifying. It's a feeling of how we're all in this together and we're all pulling for each other to be successful.
I think of these things when I receive messages like the one I did roughly a month or so ago. Randy Alexander, President and CEO of Randex Communications sent an e-copy of the soon-to-be-released album by emerging Americana band Buxter Hoot'n. It may not be fair to call this San Francisco-based band emerging, but this group is poised for a breakthrough with this stellar release.
Buxter Hoot'n is one of the most unique bands I've heard in a long time. The title track contains soaring harmonies with a beautifully haunting arrangement as its backdrop. The combination immediately hooked this listener. "Kids These Days" is the perfect blend of roots mixed with elements of rap and the combination is brilliant. My personal favorite of the EP is "Haunted House", which starts out with a soft lead guitar and understated vocal, but reaches a beautiful creshendo roughly two-thirds of the way through the track. Elements of southern rock in the Skynyrd/Allman Brothers tradition find its way on the album with a rocker called "Hung Up" that fills out the album nicely.
The press trailer for Buxter Hoot'n describes their sound as "psychedelic Americana", and I would have to agree. After listening to the preview link of "Na Na Na", which appears below, I can honestly say that I have not heard a band that produces a sound like this before. The haunting arrangements mixed with strong lyrics make for a potent concoction that makes it a pleasure to both listen and enjoy. When this record hits the stores in the coming weeks, put Buxter Hoot'n's "Na Na Na" at the top of your wish list.
Click here to stream Buxest Hoot'n, "Na Na Na"
I think of these things when I receive messages like the one I did roughly a month or so ago. Randy Alexander, President and CEO of Randex Communications sent an e-copy of the soon-to-be-released album by emerging Americana band Buxter Hoot'n. It may not be fair to call this San Francisco-based band emerging, but this group is poised for a breakthrough with this stellar release.
Buxter Hoot'n is one of the most unique bands I've heard in a long time. The title track contains soaring harmonies with a beautifully haunting arrangement as its backdrop. The combination immediately hooked this listener. "Kids These Days" is the perfect blend of roots mixed with elements of rap and the combination is brilliant. My personal favorite of the EP is "Haunted House", which starts out with a soft lead guitar and understated vocal, but reaches a beautiful creshendo roughly two-thirds of the way through the track. Elements of southern rock in the Skynyrd/Allman Brothers tradition find its way on the album with a rocker called "Hung Up" that fills out the album nicely.
The press trailer for Buxter Hoot'n describes their sound as "psychedelic Americana", and I would have to agree. After listening to the preview link of "Na Na Na", which appears below, I can honestly say that I have not heard a band that produces a sound like this before. The haunting arrangements mixed with strong lyrics make for a potent concoction that makes it a pleasure to both listen and enjoy. When this record hits the stores in the coming weeks, put Buxter Hoot'n's "Na Na Na" at the top of your wish list.
Click here to stream Buxest Hoot'n, "Na Na Na"
Monday, July 16, 2012
Family Ties That Bind
Country music has long been a staple in my life. I grew up listening to it, I grew up reading about it, I grew up watching it on TV. It's been in my family for many generations and as such, I've recently felt a kinship of sorts to the families that have been making country music for generations, even before it was officially known as "country music."
The Carter Family is widely regarded as the First Family of Country Music. It was their origninal sound created in the backwoods of the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and first recorded on August 2, 1927 in Bristol, Tennessee that initiated arguably the most influential music career in history. Songs such as "Keep on the Sunny Side", "Meet Me in the Moonlight Alone", "Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone" and the seminal "Will The Circle Be Unbroken?" are cornerstones of the country music, and subsequently, folk and Americana genres. The writings and recordings of A.P., Sara and Maybelle Carter have stood the test of time and have earned them their rightful place in both the Rock and Roll and Country Music Halls of Fame.
The second generation of the Carter Family is perhaps better known in the mainstream. When the "Original" Carter Family of A.P., Sara and Maybelle ceased recording in the 1940's, Maybelle began recording with her daughters June, Helen and Anita. It was this incarnation of the Carter Family that toured for many years with Johnny Cash. It was only until watching a recent episode of Austin City Limits that I realized how important this chain of events has become.
Setting up the performance of her next song, Johnny's daughter from a previous marriage, the incomparable Roseanne Cash was telling a story about touring with her father's show at age 18. It was during this time that the Carter Family was a staple of the Johnny Cash Show as they toured the world. Roseanne had mentioned that during this time as she was finding her way as a singer-songwriter, she had the opportunity to learn how to play the guitar from one of the masters, Helen Carter. It was during this time that seemingly a torch had been passed. As Roseanne stated, Helen Carter more or less taught her "the entire Carter Family lexicon." If you think of that statement and realize that there are only a few people left in the world who can say in all honestly that they learned to play guitar from a member of the Carter Family, that becomes an enormous statement.
In recent years, Roseanne Cash has stated that she is now at a place in her life where she is prepared to accept, and indeed accepting, of her musical and family legacy. She seems to have a new purpose where there is a commitment to ensuring the history of her family and their music is front and centre. She seems to have a new appreciation for her relationship with her iconic father and the influence he has played in her career. With her hits at radio behind her (and there were a lot of them), and the long held desire to make the music she believes in making, we are all the better for it. A new generation will benefit greatly from another legendary extension of the Carter family as she takes us on her journey of musical and family discovery.
Click here to see Roseanne Cash performing "Bury Me Beneath The Weeping Willow"
The Carter Family is widely regarded as the First Family of Country Music. It was their origninal sound created in the backwoods of the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and first recorded on August 2, 1927 in Bristol, Tennessee that initiated arguably the most influential music career in history. Songs such as "Keep on the Sunny Side", "Meet Me in the Moonlight Alone", "Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone" and the seminal "Will The Circle Be Unbroken?" are cornerstones of the country music, and subsequently, folk and Americana genres. The writings and recordings of A.P., Sara and Maybelle Carter have stood the test of time and have earned them their rightful place in both the Rock and Roll and Country Music Halls of Fame.
The second generation of the Carter Family is perhaps better known in the mainstream. When the "Original" Carter Family of A.P., Sara and Maybelle ceased recording in the 1940's, Maybelle began recording with her daughters June, Helen and Anita. It was this incarnation of the Carter Family that toured for many years with Johnny Cash. It was only until watching a recent episode of Austin City Limits that I realized how important this chain of events has become.
Setting up the performance of her next song, Johnny's daughter from a previous marriage, the incomparable Roseanne Cash was telling a story about touring with her father's show at age 18. It was during this time that the Carter Family was a staple of the Johnny Cash Show as they toured the world. Roseanne had mentioned that during this time as she was finding her way as a singer-songwriter, she had the opportunity to learn how to play the guitar from one of the masters, Helen Carter. It was during this time that seemingly a torch had been passed. As Roseanne stated, Helen Carter more or less taught her "the entire Carter Family lexicon." If you think of that statement and realize that there are only a few people left in the world who can say in all honestly that they learned to play guitar from a member of the Carter Family, that becomes an enormous statement.
In recent years, Roseanne Cash has stated that she is now at a place in her life where she is prepared to accept, and indeed accepting, of her musical and family legacy. She seems to have a new purpose where there is a commitment to ensuring the history of her family and their music is front and centre. She seems to have a new appreciation for her relationship with her iconic father and the influence he has played in her career. With her hits at radio behind her (and there were a lot of them), and the long held desire to make the music she believes in making, we are all the better for it. A new generation will benefit greatly from another legendary extension of the Carter family as she takes us on her journey of musical and family discovery.
Click here to see Roseanne Cash performing "Bury Me Beneath The Weeping Willow"
Friday, July 13, 2012
Celebrating John Denver -- Little Lake Music Festival, Peterborough, Ontario
On several occasions in this space, I've written about the abundance of musical talent that exists in the Peterborough region of Ontario. To be quite frank, it's not an understatemetn to call it an embarassment of riches, if you want the honest truth. Nights like this past Wednesday July 11 at the Little Lake Music Festival was a perfect example of how fertile the music scene is in this region.
This night was set aside to pay homage to an artist that I believe tends to get overlooked when people refer to influential singer/songwriters with respect to modern day country/folk/Americana music. John Denver was a singer, songwriter, poet, actor, environmentalist, activist and philanthropist who was one of the biggest stars of the 1970's and 1980's. His legacy is strong and resonates to this day, many years after his sudden death in a plane crash off the California coast.
It was a night for local musicians to take centre stage at Little Lake to pay remind all of us why John Denver was so important to the history of modern music. Opening with a wonderful rendition of "Sweet Surrender", the band seemlessly moved from one Denver classic to another with an amazing cast of homegrown talent. Mark Edwards was tasked with performing three of Denvers' biggest and most recognizable hits "Thank God I'm a Country Boy", "Rocky Mountain High", and "Back Home Again", and he did a fantastic job on all three. The first clap-along of the night came with Warren Chambers' rendition of the fun-favourite "Grandma's Feather Bed", while John Boyco kicked off his three song set with a beautiful version of "Some Days Are Diamonds."
As good as the guys were, perhaps the most beautiful and most telling story about the enduring legacy of John Denver and his music were the three young ladies that were invited to perform. Recent high school graduate, Cherise Billings, performed at the behest of her music teacher, who also happened to be the piano player in the band. Cherise opened up her set with "Leaving on a Jet Plane", with her voice bringing a real sense to the poetry that this song really is. Twelve year old Elizabeth did a fantastic job with her booming voice doing an excellent pseudo-reggae version of "Follow Me." The final performer of the evening was Mary Kate Bronson, daughter of the band leader, whose angelic voice soared through her set of "Sunshine on my Shoulder", "Annie's Song" and the seminal "Calypso." Hearing these three young ladies perform Denver's classics brought to mind the poetry and cross-generational appeal of his body of work. Denver was writing about issues that are still relevant to this day, such as the environment, nature and landscape. Having three singers ranging in age from pre-teen to early twenties and singing them with passion and conviction, shows the importance of Denver's writing and influence.
A John Denver tribute would not be complete without a grand finale, and what better finale than to have all the artists gather on stage for a stellar rendition of "Country Roads." Indeed, a fitting end to a wonderful night. There is no doubt in my mind that the spirit of John Denver is alive and well. His legacy was served well and served proud by all the artists participating in this show on Wednesday.
This night was set aside to pay homage to an artist that I believe tends to get overlooked when people refer to influential singer/songwriters with respect to modern day country/folk/Americana music. John Denver was a singer, songwriter, poet, actor, environmentalist, activist and philanthropist who was one of the biggest stars of the 1970's and 1980's. His legacy is strong and resonates to this day, many years after his sudden death in a plane crash off the California coast.
It was a night for local musicians to take centre stage at Little Lake to pay remind all of us why John Denver was so important to the history of modern music. Opening with a wonderful rendition of "Sweet Surrender", the band seemlessly moved from one Denver classic to another with an amazing cast of homegrown talent. Mark Edwards was tasked with performing three of Denvers' biggest and most recognizable hits "Thank God I'm a Country Boy", "Rocky Mountain High", and "Back Home Again", and he did a fantastic job on all three. The first clap-along of the night came with Warren Chambers' rendition of the fun-favourite "Grandma's Feather Bed", while John Boyco kicked off his three song set with a beautiful version of "Some Days Are Diamonds."
As good as the guys were, perhaps the most beautiful and most telling story about the enduring legacy of John Denver and his music were the three young ladies that were invited to perform. Recent high school graduate, Cherise Billings, performed at the behest of her music teacher, who also happened to be the piano player in the band. Cherise opened up her set with "Leaving on a Jet Plane", with her voice bringing a real sense to the poetry that this song really is. Twelve year old Elizabeth did a fantastic job with her booming voice doing an excellent pseudo-reggae version of "Follow Me." The final performer of the evening was Mary Kate Bronson, daughter of the band leader, whose angelic voice soared through her set of "Sunshine on my Shoulder", "Annie's Song" and the seminal "Calypso." Hearing these three young ladies perform Denver's classics brought to mind the poetry and cross-generational appeal of his body of work. Denver was writing about issues that are still relevant to this day, such as the environment, nature and landscape. Having three singers ranging in age from pre-teen to early twenties and singing them with passion and conviction, shows the importance of Denver's writing and influence.
A John Denver tribute would not be complete without a grand finale, and what better finale than to have all the artists gather on stage for a stellar rendition of "Country Roads." Indeed, a fitting end to a wonderful night. There is no doubt in my mind that the spirit of John Denver is alive and well. His legacy was served well and served proud by all the artists participating in this show on Wednesday.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Summer Road Trippin'
Summer may have officially arrived on June 20, but with the kids wrapping up their school year this week, we can now say summer is officially here. It's a holiday weekend in my native Canada, as we celebrate the birth of our nation on July 1. With this long weekend, comes the annual rite of summer passage for many of us out there, and that's the summer road trip.
Many of us won't be taking that summer road trip this weekend, but trust me, there will be millions of people more than willing to fill our spots on the highways and byways of North America. If you're like me and won't be hitting the trail this weekend, don't despair and don't feel like there's nothing to do later this summer. With summer season of course comes festival season, and there are plenty of music festivals out there over the next few months that will make for some great road trips and create more than a few memories. Here are just a few of the many wonderful music festivals that are taking place around the United States and Canada.
July 6, 7, 8 -- The Great Blue Heron Festival, Sherman, New York. Located about an hour southwest of Buffalo, New York and Erie, Pennsylvania, this festival features camping and music that ranges anywhere from country to bluegrass, to blues and cajun zydeco. Passes for all three days are $75 ($85 at the gate) making it a fairly cheap weekend of entertainment.
July 6 and 7 -- Jam in the Valley, Varysburg, New York. Located an hour south of Buffalo, New York, this festival has been growing in stature over the last three years. Modeled after the larger festival I'll highlight next, this festival has become a 4th of July weekend celebration in Western New York that's not to be missed. This year's show features headliners Miranda Lambert and Jerrod Niemann on Friday July 7, with Randy Houser, Justin Moore and Lynyrd Skynyrd headlining on July 8. Another exciting feature to this festival is the focus placed on many of the wonderful local acts of this region. Campgrounds open for load in on June 30 for large groups, Thursday July 5 for everyone else.
July 19 to 22 -- Jamboree in the Hills, St. Clairsville, Ohio -- While this isn't an Americana music festival, this is the biggest party of the summer. I have experienced JITH a dozen times and love it each year. I won't be attending this year, which is a bit of a downer, but I know the many friends I have made over the years at JITH are in for a major, major treat. Over 100,000 people, solid food selections, the option to bring in your own beverages (yes, I am referring to alcohol), local hotels, and the largest campgrounds I have ever seen. St. Clairsville is located about an hour west of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Interstate 70. JITH is easily accessible from I-70 as well, just follow the signs. Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackberry Smoke, Ronnie Dunn, Jason Aldean, Neal McCoy, Tracy Lawrence and Jamey Johnson are but a small sample of the many stars performing on this weekend. Helpful hint if you're going: bring lots of water with you.
July 28 and 29 -- Newport Folk Festival, Newport, Rhode Island -- Perhaps the granddaddy of all Americana/folk music festivals, the Newport Folk Festival has been an annual east coast celebration of American music since 1959. It's rich history has seen such luminaries as Joan Baez, Arlo Guthrie, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, Justin Townes Earle, Steve Earle and so many others it is really impossible to list them all here. An interesting fact about Newport, according to their web site, Joan Baez's 1963 performance at the Newport Folk Festival also marked the debut national of a gentleman who would go on to influence modern music in more ways than we can imagine, and he still does to this day. That performer making his national debut, as a guest during Joan Baez's set, was Bob Dylan.
August 17 to 19, Philadelphia Folk Festival, Schwenksville, Pennsylvania -- Celebrating it's 51st year in 2012, this suburban Philadelphia festival is playing host to such Americana mainstays as Pokey Lafarge and the South City Three, Steve Earle and the Dukes, John Hiatt, Lucinda Williams, Mary Gautier and Mary Chapin Carpenter. There are many hotels within the region for this festival, but rooms are booking up fast. 12,000 people attend this festival each day, making it one of the most well attended festivals of it's kind.
September 6 to 10, Ottawa Folk Festival, Ottawa, Ontario -- Expanding to 5 days, this festival is a key part of the late Ottawa summer. I attended the festival last year on the last day, which turned out to be a rather special day. In my review posted on this site, I wrote about Hayes Carll, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis, Sean McCann and Jimmy Rankin. However, on the main stage and the act I did not write about (simply because I felt these other artists were due some exposure), was the Levon Helm Band. Levon Helm was a wonderful friend to the Ottawa Folk Festival. His 2011 performance as it would turn out, sadly was his last at Ottawa. Included in this year's stacked lineup, is his daughter Amy Helm, along with Danny Michel, The Abrams Brothers, Corb Lund, on his own from Fleetwood Mac Lindsey Buckingham, and the always incredible Great Big Sea.
September 12 to 15, Americana Music Association Conference and Festival, Nashville, Tennessee -- I would be remiss if I did not include this in the list of road trips. Nashville, Tennessee is honest to God, one of my favorite places to be in the world. It is music and friendly people everywhere. The history of North American music just overflows in this town. In September, Nashville plays host to the 12 edition of the Americana Music Association Conference and Festival. It's apex is the annual presentation of the Americana Music Association Awards held at the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman Auditorium. Nightly showcases featuring the best in Americana take place at several venues around town. Tickets are available for both the conference and the showcases. I would suggest that if you're not in the industry, you are safer in purchasing the much cheaper wristband ($50) which is good for all four nights of showcases and will get you in to all of the venues. Artists announced for the showcases are Rodney Crowell, Brandi Carlisle, Reckless Kelly, Mary Gautier, John Hiatt, the Punch Brothers, The Deep Dark Woods, Eileen Jewell, Billy Joe Shaver and many more. This is a great way to close out the summer.
Clearly this is not a comprehensive list, I would say this barely scratches the surface. But I think it does highlight all of the great music that is available to us and within a short drive from just about anywhere (at least in the eastern United States and Canada). Regardless of where you may end up, enjoy yourselves and may you have the best summer you've ever had in 2012. Travel safe everyone!
Many of us won't be taking that summer road trip this weekend, but trust me, there will be millions of people more than willing to fill our spots on the highways and byways of North America. If you're like me and won't be hitting the trail this weekend, don't despair and don't feel like there's nothing to do later this summer. With summer season of course comes festival season, and there are plenty of music festivals out there over the next few months that will make for some great road trips and create more than a few memories. Here are just a few of the many wonderful music festivals that are taking place around the United States and Canada.
July 6, 7, 8 -- The Great Blue Heron Festival, Sherman, New York. Located about an hour southwest of Buffalo, New York and Erie, Pennsylvania, this festival features camping and music that ranges anywhere from country to bluegrass, to blues and cajun zydeco. Passes for all three days are $75 ($85 at the gate) making it a fairly cheap weekend of entertainment.
July 6 and 7 -- Jam in the Valley, Varysburg, New York. Located an hour south of Buffalo, New York, this festival has been growing in stature over the last three years. Modeled after the larger festival I'll highlight next, this festival has become a 4th of July weekend celebration in Western New York that's not to be missed. This year's show features headliners Miranda Lambert and Jerrod Niemann on Friday July 7, with Randy Houser, Justin Moore and Lynyrd Skynyrd headlining on July 8. Another exciting feature to this festival is the focus placed on many of the wonderful local acts of this region. Campgrounds open for load in on June 30 for large groups, Thursday July 5 for everyone else.
July 19 to 22 -- Jamboree in the Hills, St. Clairsville, Ohio -- While this isn't an Americana music festival, this is the biggest party of the summer. I have experienced JITH a dozen times and love it each year. I won't be attending this year, which is a bit of a downer, but I know the many friends I have made over the years at JITH are in for a major, major treat. Over 100,000 people, solid food selections, the option to bring in your own beverages (yes, I am referring to alcohol), local hotels, and the largest campgrounds I have ever seen. St. Clairsville is located about an hour west of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Interstate 70. JITH is easily accessible from I-70 as well, just follow the signs. Lynyrd Skynyrd, Blackberry Smoke, Ronnie Dunn, Jason Aldean, Neal McCoy, Tracy Lawrence and Jamey Johnson are but a small sample of the many stars performing on this weekend. Helpful hint if you're going: bring lots of water with you.
July 28 and 29 -- Newport Folk Festival, Newport, Rhode Island -- Perhaps the granddaddy of all Americana/folk music festivals, the Newport Folk Festival has been an annual east coast celebration of American music since 1959. It's rich history has seen such luminaries as Joan Baez, Arlo Guthrie, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, Justin Townes Earle, Steve Earle and so many others it is really impossible to list them all here. An interesting fact about Newport, according to their web site, Joan Baez's 1963 performance at the Newport Folk Festival also marked the debut national of a gentleman who would go on to influence modern music in more ways than we can imagine, and he still does to this day. That performer making his national debut, as a guest during Joan Baez's set, was Bob Dylan.
August 17 to 19, Philadelphia Folk Festival, Schwenksville, Pennsylvania -- Celebrating it's 51st year in 2012, this suburban Philadelphia festival is playing host to such Americana mainstays as Pokey Lafarge and the South City Three, Steve Earle and the Dukes, John Hiatt, Lucinda Williams, Mary Gautier and Mary Chapin Carpenter. There are many hotels within the region for this festival, but rooms are booking up fast. 12,000 people attend this festival each day, making it one of the most well attended festivals of it's kind.
September 6 to 10, Ottawa Folk Festival, Ottawa, Ontario -- Expanding to 5 days, this festival is a key part of the late Ottawa summer. I attended the festival last year on the last day, which turned out to be a rather special day. In my review posted on this site, I wrote about Hayes Carll, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis, Sean McCann and Jimmy Rankin. However, on the main stage and the act I did not write about (simply because I felt these other artists were due some exposure), was the Levon Helm Band. Levon Helm was a wonderful friend to the Ottawa Folk Festival. His 2011 performance as it would turn out, sadly was his last at Ottawa. Included in this year's stacked lineup, is his daughter Amy Helm, along with Danny Michel, The Abrams Brothers, Corb Lund, on his own from Fleetwood Mac Lindsey Buckingham, and the always incredible Great Big Sea.
September 12 to 15, Americana Music Association Conference and Festival, Nashville, Tennessee -- I would be remiss if I did not include this in the list of road trips. Nashville, Tennessee is honest to God, one of my favorite places to be in the world. It is music and friendly people everywhere. The history of North American music just overflows in this town. In September, Nashville plays host to the 12 edition of the Americana Music Association Conference and Festival. It's apex is the annual presentation of the Americana Music Association Awards held at the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman Auditorium. Nightly showcases featuring the best in Americana take place at several venues around town. Tickets are available for both the conference and the showcases. I would suggest that if you're not in the industry, you are safer in purchasing the much cheaper wristband ($50) which is good for all four nights of showcases and will get you in to all of the venues. Artists announced for the showcases are Rodney Crowell, Brandi Carlisle, Reckless Kelly, Mary Gautier, John Hiatt, the Punch Brothers, The Deep Dark Woods, Eileen Jewell, Billy Joe Shaver and many more. This is a great way to close out the summer.
Clearly this is not a comprehensive list, I would say this barely scratches the surface. But I think it does highlight all of the great music that is available to us and within a short drive from just about anywhere (at least in the eastern United States and Canada). Regardless of where you may end up, enjoy yourselves and may you have the best summer you've ever had in 2012. Travel safe everyone!
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