Songwriter and author Wesley Stace talks about the freedom of touring in his car and starting his career as a busker covering Loudon Wainwright, John Prine, Steve Goodman and John Hiatt songs.
Bob Schneider on Love Shoes and the Value of Having a Good Name
Singer-songwriter Bob Schneider talks about weekly rehearsals at Austin’s Saxon Pub, Holiday Inn Express breakfasts, and working at a t-shirt shop.
Bonus Monday Video – Tom T. Hall & Don Everly
We lost two giants in the past few days – Tom T. Hall and Don Everly. Let’s celebrate their legacies in video fashion. First, a 1970 Everly Brothers tv appearance. The segment is a bit hokey but it speaks to the depth of the talent that Don and his late brother Phil possessed. Then, Tom […]
Darrin Bradbury on “Chevy Van Halen” and Why He Doesn’t Look Back
Singer-songwriter Darrin Bradbury talks about the NJ open mic scene, delivering antique furniture, and why expectations are like assumptions.
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.
Mayer’s Picks – The Best of 2021 (So Far), the Songs
Breaking a Heart/The Wind’s Just Gonna Blow, Jack Ingram, Miranda Lambert, and Jon Randall (from the Sony Music Nashville release The Marfa Tapes) If you thought their song “Tin Man” was achingly beautiful, they’ve got a few more from their time in Marfa that just might make your eyes a little misty. I couldn’t decide […]
Mayer’s Picks – the Best of 2021 (So Far), the Albums
J.T. by Steve Earle & The Dukes Steve Earle’s moving tribute to his late son Justin Townes Earle is an emotional gut punch. Yet beyond the tragedy of the younger Earle’s passing, the elder Earle’s performances of his son’s songs highlight their shared gift of songwriting and storytelling mastery. Be warned, though, that the closing […]
Bhi Bhiman on Rudyard Kipling, Caddyshack, and a Band Named “Hippie Grenade”
Singer-songwriter Bhi Bhiman talks about breaking in new guitar strings and finding a more reliable income stream.
Monday Morning Video – Ben de la Cour
Ben de la Cour’s 2020 album Shadowland overflowed with stark tales and flawed characters, none the more so than “Anderson’s Small Ritual”. De la Cour has just announced a planned follow-up, no doubt as dark – and wonderful – as the last. Learn more about the album here.