I have a book to review for the University of North Texas Press called THE LIGHTCRUST DOUGHBOYS ARE ON THE AIR. The accompanying CD provides me with the sounds of another era, one that overlapped with the Jimmie Rodgers story. Now I see more to the picture. Walter Haily, a former emcee for the band and friend of Smokey Montgomery (Banjo), can tell us even more stories than the ones I read in the book. What a brilliant collection of interviews and memories. The author is also a longtime fan; what a combination! The scholarship is complete with a discography and appendix both rich with information. Author John Mark Dempsey has also written about the Jack Ruby Trial and lives in Denton.

I’m looking ahead to September 14 when Asleep and the Wheel brings more classic Texas music to town. The YO Social Club may be the biggest Texas party around, but they also have a sense of heritage and preservation. Held on the YO Ranch each September, this Texas-sized party includes several bands, lots of food, a chance to costume up and enjoy a Texas-sized place. Ray Bensen, bigger than Texas himself, is on of the good guys! His love for the music and the history are evident in his career, one that does far more than just perform on the road. I was surprised and pleased when I head him play a solo gig, unplugged, for the Center for Texas Music History at South by Southwest University in San Marcos.

I have heard a rumor (no press release yet) that he may also be in Louise Hays Park providing a benefit concert for the Kerrville Police Department.

We had a great show at Schreiner on September 4 with Steve Fromholz and Steve Young. Young’s visit to a classroom revealed even more hidden talent. His presence brings with it a strong story. And he shared his stories with us. Fromholz and Young shared the stage, after a rendition of “Waiting On A Train” by Tim Summerlin, accompanied by Tim Steele Steele and Eric Gerber also introduced us to some new songs.  

Also ahead, on Thursday, September 19, 7:00 p.m. at the Guadalupe River Club is the chance to hear a local boy on the rise. I had often heard of the songwriting of Owen Temple. I did not realize that Thompson Temple was his dad. Yes, Owen graduated from high school in Kerrville and attended the University of Texas in Austin. He had a budding career in music when he came to that proverbial fork in the road—security or the road. He finished school and took a job using his degree in finance. Now, at age 25, he’s ready to follow his bliss. His website is inventive and complete. www.owentemple.com There I read that Lloyd Maines (in town September 29, for the Literacy and Learning Concert with Terri Hendrix) produced his first album. His third album is out this year. The list of influences include James McMurtry, Townes Van Zandt, and Guy Clark. That list just might imply some strong writing!

Benny Pena started the Young Guns Concert Series several months ago. Bring a lawn chair and favorite beverage. Food and drink will also be available to purchase. Tickets are $10 with $8 cost to students and FSC members. Even though I’m working on a book on women in Texas music, I don’t want to miss this event, a chance to hear a young songwriter with roots in Kerrville. Join me there. And check out that website.

Mark September 27-29 on your calendar for a stint of great music and stories. October 2 Bett Butler will return to play the Texas Music Coffeehouse at Schreiner University. She brings a love of Billy Holiday, a great keyboard and a wonderful jazz presentation of many songs, some familiar to you all. Jack Fields holds his house concert with Shake Russell and Beth Williams on October 5. Not much time to stay home. Free Leonard and down the road.

Kathleen

Email Kathleen:  kat@maverickbbs.com

Visit the THMF website:  www.texasheritagemusic.org

Click here to return to the previous page