Journal

Did I Already Give You This Townes Cover?  You can listen for free on my PATREON PAGE 

I wouldn't be surprised if I did. I was just doing some laptop clean up when I found it. I recorded this at Alex The Great around 2002 with Miles Loretta on drums and Keith Hanna on bass and slide guitar. I think it was for a film score. Not sure if it ever came out or not. I was just in Galveston playing The Old Quarter which is a legendary club amongst the troubadours of planet Earth. Back in the day it was in Houston and not only did Townes record his greatest double live album there--an absolute blueprint for all troubadours--but Lightnin' Hopkins himself used to play the joint.

I had an enjoyable and unique show there just a few nights ago. This was my second time there and on this occasion I was able to jump in the Gulf Of Mexico and have a swim before the show, which was refreshing. The whole week in Texas was an educational experience for me as I played Kerville Folk Fest and absorbed some serious wisdom of the elders there. What an amazing festival full of folks who love songs.

WHERE I LEAD ME  is one of those tough guy Townes songs. It actually reflects a character type that I am stepping farther and farther away from as I tread the international waters of the traveling songwriting world. I visited Lightnin' Hopkins's grave as I passed through Houston. I had no idea that later that same night I would be playing a venue that used to be a location for him to get a haircut or gamble a bit. Camp Street Cafe in Crockett is certainly a magical place, and features a statue of Lightnin' across the street. The neighborhood used to be the African American business district back before WWII.

 Lightnin' had a huge effect on Townes, and therefore most of us troubadours out there. His blues was poetic and playful. Not strict. Weary, deep, sorrowful, and also joyous when he wanted. He was the master of his own path, and he encouraged Townes and others to find their own patch of grass along the way. 

I feel so lucky to be able to return to Texas and I really hope I get to do it again next year. As it is, I'll be in Ohio soon. Alaska in July and August, of course (!), and then a bit North America before heading to Spain in November. If there is anything you need, or would like to ask me a question, please send me a note by emailing me at Easton@TimEaston.com

Thanks so much for listening and may you have a great month of June.