2023 was a good year for new records. It seemed like themes and topics were no longer dominated by pandemic-induced experiences, and writers felt free to explore the entirety of their experience again. There was a good mix of new and old, both in terms of songs and artists. There’s the usual caveat that what […]
Monday Morning Video – “Fairytale of New York”
This holiday classic takes on extra meaning this year given the recent passing of songwriter Shane MacGowan. Glen Hasard and Lisa O’Neill led this beautiful performance at MacGowan’s funeral a few weeks ago.
Tom’s Faves: 2023
Best Album of 2023: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit – Weathervanes I really didn’t want to do it. It’s just too easy. Jason Isbell has come out on top time after time in Twangville’s Best of Year lists. Yet, here I am again. At first, it was a tough call. Chris Stapleton is always […]
Monday Morning Video – Shane MacGowan
Last week brought the news that Shane MacGowan, co-founder and singer-songwriter for Ireland’s legendary the Pogues, had passed away. MacGowan’s songs, not to mention his interpretations of other folk songs, were as stirring as his life was complex. Even though he had only performed sporadically over the last decade, the impact of his music has […]
Americana 2023, Say What?!
One of my favorite things about attending music conferences and festivals are the crazy comments that you hear along the way. Here are a few choice selections from this year’s Americana Festival. THE SHOW EXPERIENCE No one told me it was being filmed, wish I wasn’t wearing this shirt right now. William Prince improvising a […]
Americana 2023, Mayer’s Picks (Part 2)
Every fall, The Americana Music Association gathers members, artists and music fans together in Nashville for its annual conference. Starting with the Americana Music Awards and continuing through several days of showcases and panel discussions, it is a tremendous celebration of Americana music. Here are but a few of my favorite performers and performances from […]
Americana 2023, Mayer’s Picks (Part 1)
Every fall, The Americana Music Association gathers members, artists and music fans together in Nashville for its annual conference. Starting with the Americana Music Awards and continuing through several days of showcases and panel discussions, it is a tremendous celebration of Americana music. Here are but a few of my favorite performers and performances from […]
AmericanaFest 2023 – Shawn’s Favorites
AmericanaFest is part music festival, part industry conference, and part social meet-up. You can hear intimate interviews with some of the biggest names in the business, learn how to better run your business as an artist, or get tips on how to be a better performer. Not surprisingly, it all revolves around musical showcases, both […]
2023 Americana Music Awards
For the 22nd time, fans, musicians, and industry personnel gathered in Nashville on the 3rd weekend in September for the AmericanaFest. Part music festival, part industry conference, the event now stretches across most of the week. Regardless of when individual organized meetings and events start, the real premiere is the Americana Music Awards show at […]
Monday Morning Video – Jimmy Buffett
We lost another legend this weekend with the passing of Jimmy Buffett. Buffett’s legacy stretches beyond music that is revered by countless fans. He also helped shape the business of music, creating an empire that made him a cultural icon. It’s hard to pick just one classic from a catalog that is filled with them. […]