Thursday, August 20, 2009

Late Greats

Townes Van Zandt
One of the greatest country and folk artists of his generation
March 7, 1944 – January 1, 1997


Townes used to say, "Man, I could have been a Poet but this stupid music keeps coming with it." Townes was a funny guy.

He wrote some of the most stunningly introspective songs of our time. His songs evoke imagery and visions of otherworldly places and beauty. His songs reach a place in your soul few writers ever enter. The characters in Townes songs are usually the downtrodden, derelicts, drifters, whores and those less fortunate than most of us, though we can all identify with their "humanity" through Townes' words. He's gone to those dark places, so we don't have to. A Texan by birth and a traveler by nature, Townes Van Zandt’s dark country and folk ballads mirrored his own life of haunting truths Take a minute to pay homage to this late great. Take a lifetime even. I've always felt that life can be a dear friend or a worst enemy. Maybe we just live, learn and relate. Enjoy the remarkable documentary 'Be Here To Love Me' depicting this man's heartfelt life and times here and be sure to expand your music library with his great music.