We lost Jesse Winchester earlier this spring. The Louisiana-born singer-songwriter had a gentle soul that shone brightly in his magical songs. Here are Shannon McNally and Charlie Sexton performing his 1970’s classic “Biloxi.”
Wednesday Morning Video: SXSW 2013 Highlights, Part 3
We wrap up our SXSW 2013 coverage with a final set of videos. This collection features several up-and-comers that we’ll be hearing great things from in the years to come. Dawes performing their brilliant song “When My Time Comes” You Won’t playing a song whose title I don’t know (can someone help me and Shazam […]
SXSW 2013: The Sounds, Part 1
Patty Griffin One listen to a Patty Griffin song and you’ll understand why she has developed an almost cultish following. She is, quite simply, an extraordinary songwriter. New West Records, her new record label, arranged a private showcase at a South Austin mansion called the Castle to celebrate her forthcoming release. It was an event […]
SXSW 2011: The Video Companion
I got a bit carried away with the videos, compiling 26 great videos captured live at SXSW. Not surprisingly, we kick things off with the performance that introduced me to Maxim Ludwig & the Santa Fe Seven. From there, a three-fer from Alejandro Escovedo’s special Sunday night gig at the legendary Continental Club. We’ve got […]
SXSW 2011: The Scene, Part 2
DAY PARTIES EVERYWHERE Unofficial day parties have exploded in the past several years to the point that they now outnumber the official showcases. By my count there were over 120 day parties taking place on Saturday and I know that my list wasn’t complete. With that many shows it takes some creativity to stand out, […]
Mayer’s Playlist from August 2010, a Video Companion
The video companion returns with a short but potent set from August’s playlist. We kick things off with Rich Pagano and SugarCane Cups ripping it up on “Change Your Mind.” Luke Doucet takes the baton with a solo performance of “Dirty Dirty Blonde” that rivals the recorded version. Paul Thorn slows us down a bit […]
The Legacy of Townes and Sir Douglas
Spring brings us two phenomenal releases honoring the legacy of Texas music pioneers Doug Sahm and Townes Van Zandt. The recently released Keep Your Soul: A Tribute to Doug Sahm (Vanguard Records) pays tribute to San Antonio native Doug Sahm. Sahm established himself in 1965 as leader of the Sir Douglas Quintet, a band whose […]