Wormy Dog Spring Jam

I love Texas Country. Its like comparing high school football to the pros. You actually know those people on stage, know their hometown because its yours or you've been there and actually driven the streets and know exactly where they are playing on Friday night when you here the game on the radio. I could still to this day drive blindfolded to Shotwell Stadium in Abilene because we lost almost every game in that stinking stadium. I know it well. I don't know where Tony Romo or Jason Whitten live, I'd probably pee in my pants if I walked into their house. I don't know where they came from or if his mom or dad cheers the loudest, but I knew those things about my team. I knew their stats every week, knew why one player was terrible after he lost girl, knew who was over and under rated, and so did almost everybody else in the crowd. It's so personal you feel like one huge wave of people rooting for the same thing, victory. Agreed, that's what the pros want, but they get money for winning, way too much money if you ask me.
I've never been to Nashville, would like to one day, but its seems like a far off place where a lot of people who sing the music never lived it. These bands live what they write. They are broke. They love their fans and they love their music and they love where they came from and are not quick to forget it. You play me almost any TX country song and I can tell you a moment from Lubbock that it takes me back too. From high school, to college, to love, to hate, to loving my town, to wanting to leave, to actually leaving and not being able to see the road through my tears. I can't explain anymore than that, some music is just so true that certain songs become a part of you, a part of your story that describe your life better than you can. Shannan back me up on this!

That said, I was thrilled to be able to see some of my favorite bands yesterday. The Josh Abbott Band actually played at our wedding and are quickly rising, thanks to a fabulous new fiddle player Preston. We had the opportunity to meet Preston's family by coincidence yesterday and there are not a better group of people than these guys. He's parents drove from CO to see their son play and we got to hear his whole life story almost. I am so excited they have this new talent, he really adds to the chemistry and personality of the band on stage. Amazing musician, great at fiddle and electric guitar. Interesting tidbit- the fiddle he now plays belonged to Garth Brooks fiddler. I love that they are sticking to the country sound and basing themselves on pure talent. Anyways - love these Red Raiders and Lubbockites and wish them well! Favorite song Taste-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMCQ_NWfqCA


Blue Edmonson STOP SCREWING UP YOUR VOICE! Apparently Austin is creating a new southern rock sound characterized by singing through the throat for a very scratchy, hoarse sound. New songs are not good for sing-along. Disappointed.

Eli Young Band- rocking show and still love the classics! Mike Eli has one of the most distinctive voices I've ever heard, he really sets them apart from everyone else. It's almost a spiritual experience to hear them play "When it Rains" live. They know its the song that made them and still revere it as such. Great when you are in a bad mood-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztHNs_b_sy0

Randy Rogers- sorry to say we left after sitting in the sun for 6 hours to grab a bite to eat. Made it back in time for a few favorites. We didn't go back inside, we walked to the bridge that went up right behind the stage. By that time it was dark and we had this incredible view of downtown. Must be great to play the songs you love and see that background. Danced to "Kiss me in the Dark" on the bridge, utterly romantic! Brownie points to Brian! Beware Viewers! I didn't watch the whole video but I know it shows some skin, so just minimize your screen while its playing :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoBlryfjlCc