Hat tip to NPR and their current fundraising drive for reminding me of Roy Orbison’s greatness. Just take a look at the artists who came together to honor Orbison back in 1988. The background vocalists included Bonnie Raitt, kd lang, and J.D. Souther. The band included Tom Waits, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, and T Bone […]
Sarah Gayle Meech – Easin’ On
I am not a fan of Nashville’s Lower Broadway. While authentic country music may be the claim, drunken bridesmaids are in much greater abundance and are what’s setting the atmosphere. Every rule has an exception, though, and Robert’s Western World fits the bill here. On a recent trip to Music City, a pitstop at Robert’s […]
Anders Osborne on Early Song Titles and Setting Career Intentions
New Orleans songwriter and guitarist Anders Osborne recalls his first gig – at age 9 – and the tour vans he has owned over the course of his career.
Monday Morning Video – Preview Our Upcoming Dallas House Show
Twangville invites you to join us for the next edition of our backyard concert series in Dallas, TX on 28 April. Details and RSVP here. Yeah, we’re biased – but it’s a great one. We’ve got three incredible artists converging on our stage in Dallas to swap songs and stories. It will be something special. […]
Bridget Kearney on Macrobars, Paul McCartney, and Working at Fenway Park
Bridget Kearney, solo artist and founding member of Lake Street Dive, talks about a good omen ahead of her band’s first show at Madison Square Garden, her evolving view on making music videos, and the time she broke the windshield of a taxi in Shanghai, China.
Ruston Kelly on “Golden Snow” and Developing Thick Skin
Singer-songwriter Ruston Kelly talks about rehearsing at home, working at a chicken plant when he was 20, and the time that his tour bus caught on fire.
Monday Morning Video – Three from Allen Toussaint
I got sucked down the Toussaint rabbit hole this weekend. And what a rabbit hole it is. The legendary New Orleans songwriter, producer, and musician has influenced so many during his illustrious career. Here are a trio of Toussaint compositions that became staples for other artists: “What Do You Want the Girl to Do” (Bonnie […]
SXSW 2024: The Sounds, Part 3
The Lottery Winners My last official SXSW set was delivered by one of my fave new artist discoveries – England’s The Lottery Winners. The band’s energy, combined with the positivity of their songs, made for a cathartic experience. Ben Kweller Kweller treated a Friday night crowd to a set filled with rockin’ fan favorites. Power […]
SXSW 2024: The Sounds, Part 1
Kathleen Edwards I don’t recall this ever happening before, but this year I kicked off SXSW with one of my favorite sets of the week. Kathleen Edwards performed solo (save a brief appearance by Lauren Morrow on harmony vocals), highlighting songs from throughout her illustrious career plus a new one. Attitude, charm, and great music. […]
Monday Morning Video – Allison Russell
Allison Russell has firmly established herself as one of today’s most dynamic artists. From the profoundness of her songwriting to the fervor of her performances, she is clearly fueled by a creative ambition that inspires audiences and fellow artists alike. Here she performs the title track from last year’s outstanding The Returner.