Randy Newman is an American treasure. Whether cynical or sentimental, his songs brilliantly capture the characters and moments that inhabit them. Here’s Newman, accompanied by Tom Petty, Jackson Browne, John Fogerty, and an all-star band performing his classic anthem “I Love L.A”. I wish they alternated the verses that Jackson Browne and John Fogerty sang […]
Monday Morning Video – ZZ Top
Set aside a catalog that is the envy of many a rock band, it’s hard to fathom a group that whose original line-up performed together for more than 50 years. Rest in peace, Dusty Hill. Your musical legacy is gonna keep us rockin’ for years to come.
Mayer’s Playlist for Summer 2021
Foregone Conclusion, Zach Schmidt (from the Boss Dawg Records release Raise a Banner) Zach Schmidt has been waiting awhile for the release of his sophomore full length album. Not Chinese Democracy long, but long enough. Schmidt recorded the album, backed by producer Sadler Vadan and the 400 Unit (yes, that one), then saw the album […]
Rodney Crowell Talks About Pawn Shop Drums and a Tour Bus Fire
Legendary singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell shares a few favorite Texas restaurants, talks about legislating music in the internet age, and declines to reveal a state secret.
Tylor and the Train Robbers -Non-Typical Find
Tylor and the Train Robbers are a family band that has toured relentlessly and been their own producers over two previous studio albums. Then, faster than you can say “pandemicâ€, things changed. Suddenly they were off the road and had a chance rethink their approach in their native Boise, Idaho. First hey jumped head first […]
Grayson Jenkins on Side Hustles, Handling Rejection, and “Vincent Van Goat”
Kentucky singer-songwriter Grayson Jenkins talks about the best investment that he’s ever made, working as a carpenter, and Krispy Krunchy chicken tenders.
Ray Benson on Tour Buses, Skipping Lunch, and “The Rodeo Song”
Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel talks about the only day job that he’s ever had and opening for Hot Tuna, Alice Cooper, and Stoneground in Washington D.C.
Monday Morning Video – More True Believers
Last week’s True Believers blast of rock and roll just wasn’t enough for me. Here’s a set from a band reunion at SXSW back in 2013. You better believe I was there in person to revel in the glorious wash of electric guitar. Well, make that guitars. I’ve queued it up for “Who Calls My […]
Monday Morning Video – True Believers
The feels like a week that calls out for rock and roll. One of the great shoulda been huge rock purveyors were Austin, Texas’s True Believers. Three singer-songwriters, three guitars, and a pounding rhythm section – it doesn’t get much better. Here’s a vintage clip of the group performing “The Rain Won’t Help You When […]
Quit Breaking My Heart – A Premiere from Chris J. Norwood
Chris J. Norwood has been known to tackle some serious and personal topics in his songs. He takes a slightly different tack on the latest single from his forthcoming I Am Not Cool. Well, sort of. “I Need You (To Quit Breaking My Heart)â€, a duet with his wife Carrie, captures the back and forth […]