I know, I know — our website offers “tips and information for Airstream / RV travelers.”
SO HERE’S TODAY’S TIP: support your local musicians!
Honestly, I get more enjoyment from local independent musicians than the glossy pre-packaged fluff that record companies attempt to shove down our throats. I’d rather see a really talented solo artist (like the fellow in our video) in an intimate venue than watch the Boy Band Du Jour from Section ZZ Row 52 Seat 24.
Ever heard of Robert Johnson? Born in Mississippi in 1911, Johnson recorded his music in a smattering of 1936 sessions. One of the peculiarities of Johnson is the format — one man, one acoustic guitar — both singing the blues.
If you’ve never heard Robert Johnson, his recordings range from thumping and rowdy to haunting and surreal. They also have been enormously influential, inspiring artists such as Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, and the Rolling Stones.
Intrinsic to the Robert Johnson mythos is the story of how he suddenly acquired his immense talents (a deal with the devil struck at a certain crossroads) and how he suddenly died (poisoned at the age of 27 by a jealous husband). Song such as “Crossroads,” “Me and the Devil Blues,” and “Hellhound on My Trail” helped to solidify the myth. (I dare you to listen to these songs without getting goosebumps on your skin!)
In the early 1990s, I was delighted to discover a modern day artist who was carrying forward the Delta Blues that Robert Johnson pioneered. Kent DuChaine performs solo with his weathered guitar.
Kent DuChaine has traveled the globe for over 40 years along with “Leadbessie,” his duct-taped 1934 National Steel Guitar.
In addition to frequent appearances in the American South, he’s toured Europe more than 50 times. His stage show was once hailed by The London Times as “one of the five best concerts in the U.K.” In fact, he just returned from a four-month tour of England, where he is enormously popular.
It’s more than a bit ironic that English and European audiences appreciate this celebration of American culture, while modern American audiences tend to glorify musical artists who can’t sing, play instruments, or write music. Hmmmm.
For more info on Ken DuChaine, check out his website at http://KentDuChaine.com.