On The Road @kathud13 - Tumblr Blog

On the Road

May 2017

My road went west a few miles to Roddy Tree outside of Ingram on Highway 37. The Sunday afternoon series with Jr. Pruneda and friends began on Easter Weekend, and I was there. I heard my favorite country classic, but better than that I spent time with musicians who have deep roots in Texas music. Jr. Pruneda, an octogenarian who has played with Bob Wills, Hank Thompson and many more, was joined by Fritz Morquecho, another octogenarian who grew up with Jr. in Kerrville, on accordion. Both men are interviews and chapters in a book manuscript I am working on, a collection of stories on Tejano, Tex/Mex, Latino and Hispanic voices in Texas music. Seemed fitting to be there at the first Sunday and to be there on Easter weekend. My heart was warmed when Bobbie Pruneda, Jr.’s wife, got up to sing. Her beauty both in spirit and song added to this special day. Also on stage were Sticks (on drums), David Spangler and Dow Patterson. The Sunday series runs all summer so don’t miss out on this local treasure.

Head a little further west to the Hunt Store. Another venue for great music and food, The Hunt Store has featured many Texas musicians, and on May 19, Charlie Robison will be playing. A songwriter from Bandera, then Nashville, now the world, Charlie brings his authentic rowdy perspective to songs that have become classics in Texas music. Yes, I am a Charlie fan!

Head south on Highway 16 to Quiet Valley Ranch for the Annual Kerrville Folk Festival, 18 days of workshops, performances, song circles, and special events. I have attended each year since 1973 (when it took place in town at the municipal center then moved to Schreiner campus at the Arts and Craft Fair), and I moved to Kerrville in 1984 to work with founder Rod Kennedy on his songwriters foundation. I am looking forward to too many performances to list here, but don’t miss out! Jimmy LaFave plays the first Friday, and Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines are followed by the rocking Peterson Brothers on the first Sunday night. Peter Yarrow has a weeknight show to himself. Great to have that focus.

And now for an April story. I headed to Austin on Friday, April 21, to hear a show at Threadgill’s with Jimmy LaFave. My sister and Rod Kennedy hired him as a surprise at my 60th birthday party. I was a longtime fan. At the Merle Haggard Tribute at Threadgill’s in April Jimmie and I talked. “I have about 3 months to live,” he shared. That story came out in the paper before the April 21 show so the venue was sold out. Of course. He is scheduled to play May 26 at the Kerrville Folk Festival. Many of you have discovered him there, with Bobby on drums and wild Radislov on keyboard. April 21 the state included Sergio and Rad on Keyboards, Jon Inmon on guitar, Bobby Kallus on drums, Eliza Gilkyson, Larry Wilson (on bass), Slaid Cleaves, Sam Baker, and a host of other friends. What an emotional night, as many had just read the story. He was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, fought the battle well, and was now giving us all he had. “There’s nothing new to try. I’m doomed.”

We heard Dylan songs (of course) and Woody songs (Kathy Guthrie was on stage), and he started the evening with his own song, ”There never is a moment when you are not on my mind.” Ah, Jimmy sang my own dreams. May 18 a large group of friends are gathering at the Paramount to pay tribute to Jimmy. As I write this, I realize he may not be there. We heard “I ain’t got no home in this world anymore.” All we have now is tears. Eliza sang the first Dylan, “My love speaks like silence.” Sam Baker and Raina Rose sang the words, “Hard times come again no more.” Jimmy sang another Dylan, “You’re gonna make me lonesome when you go.” I thought of my world literature class, also reading Chronicles by Dylan, when he sang the line, “Relationships have all been bad. Like Verlaine and Rimbaud.” My students just studied their poetry too. We heard stories from the Woody Guthrie Tribute, and Slaid played a song taking some unpublished words of Woody from archives and added the music. Dylan has just donated his archives to the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa, Ok, and they are newly open to scholarship. Sam Baker added, “I’m crawling back down in the ditch today.” A poignant song.

Then Butch Hancock arrived and added his 7 minute song about Leo and Leona and a circle in the sand. I was struck with the heavy presence of the moment, realizing once again that all we have is NOW. What if we did approach each moment by embracing it? I was sitting with Harold Eggers, manager of Townes, and we talked after the show, reminiscing memories and embracing what we do have now.

Other guests included Abra Moore, Jamie Harris, Grace Pettis and Ray Bonneville. Then the sing along. Of course, Woody Guthrie. Dylan would approve, and I hope he learns about this wonderful tribute. “This Land is Your Land” became our anthem as we left Threadgill’s that night.

Remember, a $125 donation to our 30th anniversary will get you a unique, signed, Bill Worrell piece of art, a silver heart with a treble clef. First 100 donations. September 8, we will celebrate the birthday of Jimmie Rodgers at Blue Sage Hall in Ingram. July 24-26 we are putting together a songwriters workshop for young people (15-21) at Schreiner University. Contact the office at [email protected] for details on reserving a space. And September 29 is the annual Texas Heritage Music Day with an evening concert sponsored by HEB featuring Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines. Sept. 28 the Austin Songwriters Group will host jam at the YO Ranch Hotel. Mark those calendars.

Ils sont partis.

On the Road

My road has been rambling south again. The Magic Town Music in San Miguel de Allende featured Texas and Mexican artists. Wild Bill Stidham, an Austinite living in SMA, was emcee. And his spectacular pop art portraits of musicians adorned the stage and venue. I visited the gallery of Daniel Rueffert at 15 Aldama and took a lovely and dramatic street scene home with me. A Rueffert now joins the Carrie Cameron (Cock of the Walk Boot designs), William K. Stidham, David Leonardo (muralist) and Anjelica (David’s mom). I also have two paintings by Victor, an artist who used to live in my complex at 19 Callejon de San Antonio. Yes, when the road leads south, I go to Mexico. Sometimes by Ejecutivo bus at the Nuevo Laredo station.

Closer to home is a road that leads west of Kerrville to Blue Sage Hall. Randy Palmer has created a spectacular music series, and I am taking some students April 7 to hear Radney Foster. He also plays the Kerrville Folk Festival on June 11. The venue is comfortable for artist and audience. Randy opens with some songs. We have free nachos and chili. BYOB. Ahead is a lineup including Dale Watson, Shake Russell, Michael Hearne, Bill Hearne Trio, Bob Livingston, The Renfrees, Susan Gibson, Billy Crockett, Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines. Wow. www.bluesagehall.com The Troubadour Night Music Series.

I am teaching world literature and creative writing this semester at Schreiner. April 4 is the coffeehouse produced by the English Dept. and my non-profit, THMF. We are showcasing the English and music departments, spoken word, and Thom Moon Poet from Austin. All art is a form of self-expression, and I have chosen a life that honors that above all else. Whether in my classroom, the theatre (March 23 at VK Garage with David McGuff), music events, coffeehouse setting, my houses, or both artistic communities where I live (Kerrville and San Miguel de Allende), I am the one saying, “This matters.” We all have our calling, and I have found mine. In fact, I have known mine since I was four years old playing school with my siblings. One-day mom, Annabel Lee, came in and asked why I had a classroom set up but my siblings were all sitting on the stairs. “They’re waiting for the bus,” was my answer. An ongoing family story among us.

On the road is also the title of a novel that changed the course of American fiction. Watching a Bob Dylan interview, he talked about Jack Kerouac some, and he also said that Woody Guthrie was a major influence. April 25 the annual Texas Writers’ Conference will feature Dylan scholar, and Dr. David Gaines, from Southwestern University in Georgetown. My students are getting prepared. YouTube has opened up teaching to a visual approach, and we listened to an interview with Bob as well as a great talk by Patti Smith. Gaines went to Sweden knowing Dylan would not be there to receive the Nobel Award, but he did compare coats with Patti Smith who went to sing the Dylan song, “Chimes of Freedom.” Everything connects.

March 24 the Texmaniacs took over Luckenbach again. The venue is perfect for their high energy. Hondo Crouch did love singing in Spanish and dancing in the rain. The Texmaniacs carry this same spirit. The Imagineer is always nearby in spirit. Great to see Hondo’s daughter, a chip off that old block, Becky Patterson. Her life is a work of art with both visual and literary.

T.S. Eliot said, “April is the cruelest month.” Something to ponder. My schedule for April includes the coffeehouse on April 4, a student trip to Blue Sage Hall on April 7 to hear Radney Foster, a Terri Hendrix songwriting residency at Schreiner April 17-20 and the Texas Writers’ Conference on April 25. Yes, I teach 4 classes a semester too. April 18 is the official opening of a new music building/concert hall at Schreiner. Everything connects…. English and music.

Hope to see you down the road. Again, at the coffeehouse, tell me you read this for your THMF t-shirt. We celebrate 30 years, check out our website for an upcoming limited edition piece of art, donated by Bill Worrell, to help us celebrate. A signed silver heart.

Ils Sont Partis.

On The Road

March 2017

My road took me to San Miguel de Allende. I was faculty and patron at the 12th Annual Literary Conference in February. I heard Mary Karr knock our lights out with her stories of growing up in East Texas. I was moved to new understandings with the poetry of Billy Collins. David Ebershoff told us the story of The Danish Girl, and I cried. Beautiful. I attended a workshop with Martha Barnette, co-producer of A Way With Words, and I practiced some improv techniques that also helped the writer within. I gave a workshop on creativity and writing: expanding our horizons. I studied with poets and played with language. I ate great meals, reveled in the fiesta experience at the Instituto de Allende, and loved the conference site, The Hotel Real Minos….near my own apartment in Colonia San Antonio. Put February on your calendar for this rich literary and life-bringing experience.

I attended a songwriting workshop with Stephanie Urbina Jones and Scott Boland. Steph also opened the evening with a song, honoring the conference, Mexico and Judy Collins! We all joined hearts with “Revolucion en mi Corazon.” Judy had us singing together on both “Suzanne” and on the final of “Amazing Grace.” Pure folk. Judy’s version of “Suzanne” was my introduction to Leonard Cohen. She told a story about Leonard bringing her the song, saying, “I am not sure this is a song. I can’t sing. Would you give it a try?” Well, she did! We also heard about her challenges with addiction along the way. Her beautiful clear blue eyes captivated us, and I was thrilled to be a patron in the second row. I also had dinner with Billy Collins at the special reception, and learned more of his stories. Now I teach his poetry in my classes at Schreiner. “Aimless Love” may be my favorite.

I participated in a shamanic journey workshop with Jeremy Pajer, the husband of Stephanie. They were heading off with 27 people on a journey to the pyramids and a dreaming ceremony after this conference. Steph is also appearing at the Shamanic Gathering in Sedona with Don Ruiz in April. This Texas songwriting is bringing real light to this world! My foundation was proud to sponsor her trip to Mexico this February.

I have studied with Tom Robbins at this conference, heard Cheryl Strayed and Barbara Kingsolver; they inspire me, and reveled in the work of many writers. I was there at the beginning, and the growth has been as organic as an orchid blooming.

AND Magic Town Music explodes on the San Miguel scene again on March 11. Raising money for Casa de los Angeles, the event is rich with Texas musicians, two from Austin. Malford Milligan and Red Young (both performers at the 290Texas series for THMF) are featured along with a women from North Texas signing the blues. I am returning for this! And THMF is a sponsor, writing our check out to Casa de Los Angeles.

Like us on Facebook. Join the organization to support this programming. Consider becoming a sponsor for our annual Texas Heritage Music Day on Sept. 29. Check out our website (student design) at www.texasheritagemusic.org Hats off to Bob Dylan who put out a tribute album to Jimmie Rodgers in 1997! Join us at the Blue Sage Hall in Ingram on Sept. 8 as we celebrate the birthday of the Father of Country music who lived in Kerrville From 1929-1931. Jimmie Dale Gilmore is our invited guest.

Ils Sont Partis

February 2017

February 1 is the first event of the THMF 30th anniversary year. Ric LeMon and Menagerie will play a tribute to Black History Month at the THMF coffeehouse held in the Lion’s Den at Schreiner University. Join us from 7-9. Open mike too. Lorraine LeMon, also performing, is the founder/director of Art2Heart, a local non-profit with a commitment to the arts as education. We share many goals. Come enjoy drawings, free books, and the chance to get coffee and food with Chartwell’s. This coffeehouse is co-sponsored by the Schreiner English Dept. Here we go, on the road. I am heading to Mexico (no wall to climb) to the San Miguel de Allende Literary Conference Feb. 14-20. I get to be faculty and teach a workshop on creativity and writing. Stephanie Urbina Jones is also part of the conference as she leads a workshop on songwriting and sings an opening to the Judy Collins presentation. And she will be playing a house concert on Feb. 11 in San Miguel de Allende. I return March 9 to attend Magic Town Music Festival featuring Malford Milligan (Austin) and Theresa Britt (Dallas) and some great local Mexican bands! I get to show my son, Anthony, and his family around as this is the beginning of spring break. CD’s adorn my car, desk, office and classroom. Not only am I teaching a Dylan unit in world literature, but I am introducing Texas music to my freshman writing class. My creative writing class will benefit from the April songwriting residency with Terri Hendrix. I will be in San Marcos on Feb. 2 at HER non-profit, called Own Your Own Universe. She is showcasing a voice of THMF, Max and Josh Baca of Texmaniac fame. Go to her website for tickets and a look at the OYOU schedule. The Texas Writers Conference at Schreiner on April 25 will feature Dr. David Gaines, a Dylan scholar, a workshop, and some student writing. For your calendar! Back to those CD’s: New one by Maria Moss and Jon Hogan, Keith Weber, Gurf Morlix, Stevie Tombstone, Jimbro, Penn Johnston, Red Young, Melissa Weatherly and Any Sunday Band, and more. Always more. I am actually thinking of a 30th year commemorative CD of Hill Country Voices. More on that later. Now for some CD highlights: Keith Weber has put together a melodic CD featuring the violin as one other voice. He includes a songs by Mike Blakely, Richard Dobson, and Guy Clark/Susanna Clark. “Cool Evening” might be my favorite as I am driving down the road. Or the rhythm of “Run, Run, Run.” Gurf Morlix in “The Soul & The Heal” takes us “Deeper Down,” is a song Townes Van Zandt could have written as well. Yep, he is in good company. He is definitely original as well as quirky and intense. My kind of music! Penn Johnson, a young songwriter I met at the ASG conference in January, has a CD out called “Experiencing Turbulence.” After meeting him, interviewing him, listening to him perform and participate in my creative writing workshop, I am willing to say he will give you a variety of songs to enjoy and experience. And what a voice for these songs. Again, my favorites seem to go down, “Down This Well.” Interesting them going here. Jon Hogan and Maria Moss have a new creation of love out, “In Dreams I Go Back Home.” Don’t we all. They are a voice for THMF in several of our programs, and they visit my classroom regularly. No favorites here as I love them all! This CD goes on the road with me. See JimbroFriends.com for information on this CD, “Handmade.” He not only creates bolas (art), but he creates a handmade CD each time you order one. Very interesting, and I met him at the ASG conference. (Austin Songwriters Group) BolaMan.com Stevie Tombstone CD came through a writer I know passing through Austin. A recommendation. He was right; I like the music. My kind of edgy voice and good songs. StevieTombstone.net and Cloverdalemusic.com I have only included some tidbits on the stack of CD’s growing on my desk and in my car. More to come!

Ils Sont Partis.

On the road

January 2017

Here I sit in San Miguel de Allende during another Christmas season, after lots of family time in Texas. The beauty of this culture and this city overwhelm me with nostalgia and memory. So many great moments here, and many are connected to music. Right now I am thinking of the Vamonos tour with Stephanie Urbina Jones. Her song and video are charting in Texas and getting attention on the international scene that loves Texas music. She is the perfect ambassador for sharing good will as she merges the passion of the Mexican culture, the history of Texas and Mexico, and the values of family that we cherish. See the THMF facebook page for ongoing details. Consider being a patron/sponsor by joining THMF at $100 or more and mark your membership for this project.

We just received a donation from Johnny Nicholas and 2016 Big Band Bash for $1500 to add to our funding for a songwriting school for young people. Stay tuned for details. yes, you can support that too. The THMF is a space for creative projects in Texas music and a space for people to show financial support to the power of the arts. Stories and songs make a difference in the world. Our board meets Jan. 9 to plan the next 5 years. For 2017 we are already working on a songwriting school to be held at Schreiner University.

I am excited about my new semester, one that includes world literature (And Dylan's book Chronicles), writing about Texas music, business communication and creative writing. Love planning for these courses then seeing what happens as each group of students is unique. I already miss my classes from last semester as we developed community in each one. January 6 I give a presentation at the Lilly Foundation conference in Austin on heart and technology in the classroom. Karen Sides, the creative guru at Schreiner, is co-presenting (it was her idea) and she did all the digital direction. January 12 is the second induction ceremony for the Austin Songwriters Group Legends Hall of Fame. I was privileged to be included in the first group in 2015. The ASG conference is Jan. 13-15. Not too late to sign up for all these great opportunities for writers, musicians, producers, and any interested in the music business. Go Lee Duffy, the founder and producer.

February 15-19 is the annual San Miguel Literary Conferfence, and I am privileged to be faculty teaching a course on creativity and writing. Check out the website for all the many opportunities. I am excited to see Judy Collins again and meet Billy Collins, former poet laureate of the US.

My road is calling, and the balance between going and coming is a dance for me. I love my life in Kerrville, my jobs, my home out west, and I love the call of the road to explore. The dance metaphor works for me. On the road I go...ils sont partis. KH

On The Road

December 2016

“On the road again, like a band of gypsies we go down the highway.” How many of you are already singing this with me? I had the privilege of hearing two nights of Willie and Family at the Majestic Theatre in San Antonio on November 22 and 23. The second night was a surprise gift from Bobbie Nelson, and my experience backstage introduced me to Willie’s bass player, Kevin Smith, a top musician in his own right and a man who had some great stories about a record collection he received and the history on Conjunto music these albums contained. The first night I received the gift of box tickets from Seref H. and his employer, John. Both nights were gifts, both nights were special.

I have been listening to Willie since I first heard him at Panther Hall in Ft. Worth in about 1963, my freshman year at TCU. These two nights at the Majestic are in the top 5 performances I have seen! He was sharp and strong, and the evening was all about expanding our hearts. Kevin told me, “Of course we love returning to the Majestic and playing to this great crowd. Their energy pulls the best out of us. We can feel them pulling for us.” I felt it too, and I wanted to be the one to tell Willie that Jimmie Rodgers opened that theater in 1929. I did not get to tell Willie, but I told many around him. He has one scheduled meetup with a man who worked with him in Europe. Otherwise, we were not to surround him as he entered or left the stage. Tuesday night, he walked across the front of the stage and signed and signed. Just like the old days. Wednesday, he walked out to the bus quickly.

From my place backstage on Wednesday, I could see his angel sister, Bobbie, as she took over the piano, taking leads on many songs. Amazed at those patent leather heels, I was intrigued with her peaceful energy. We will be having tea together when she is off the road. We developed this closeness during the interview I conducted at her house for my second book. She was cooking beans for Willie and grieving the loss of her small dog. We sat outside by his grave and talked. That interview is in the 2007 book published by UT Press, WOMEN IN TEXAS MUSIC; STORIES AND SONGS.

Willie’s show included his son, Micah, on percussion. I did not realize the Paul of “Me and Paul” turned 90? He was mentoring Micah and joining in while his brother Billy played drums. Except, of course, on “Me and Paul.” I wonder how Willie picks a set list? We heard the classics and some new ones and a few surprises. I always love “Still is Still Moving To Me.” Others on the list included “Georgia,” “Whiskey River,” “Beer For My Horses,” “Always On My Mind, “Goodbye Joe,” “George On A Fast Train,” “It’s All Going To Pot,” “Roll Me Up And Smoke Me When I Die,” “I’ll Fly Away,” “Circle be Unbroken,” and, of course, “On The road Again.” During many of the songs he invited the audience to fill in the words. And we knew those words! We heard his tribute to Waylon, Merle, Hank, and Billy Joe Shaver. Hey, Bob Dylan mentions listening to a Billy Joe Shaver song in one of his songs.

I also spent two nights in November at the Big Band Bash at the Hilltop Café with Johnny Nicholas. Another gift as we heard blues, Cajun, and more blues. The Texmaniacs added some spice, and Augie Meyers, Leroy Parnell and Jimmie Vaughan were the surprise guests. Not enough room to do those performances justice, but Johnny presented us with spectacular music with many moments dedicated to his late wife, Brenda, much loved by all! It was another family affair. I also spent time with Al Stahely, a Texas musician I met at Midem in Cannes about 25 years ago, and I am now looking forward to another gift. He will allow the THMF to use his beautiful Christmas song and video for our website. And we plan to present Al and his brother John at a 290Texas house concert.

A note from the grand finale of the BBB: Jimmie Vaughan said, “Even if you don’t know this song, you know it so sing along.” And we all sang “Hey Baby” by Bruce Channel. Other threads in this musical tapestry include Al Gomez on trumpet, Kaz Kazanoff on Sax, and John Mills on baritone sax

On Thursday night, November 17, I spent the evening rocking with Patricia Vonne and Robert LaRoche and Rick Del Castillo at Sam’s Burger Joint. Each time I am with Patricia, as she dances and turns the stage into theatre, I am clear that European audiences see her as a voice of Texas. And I see why. Glad my Turkish friend, Seref H. could join me with road warrior Janice Kennemer Ballard. Such fun to introduce the music I love to friends. And that is why I write, and that is why I teach at Schreiner. I get to point to what I love.

My road has taken me into beautiful places where hearts can expand. The November coffeehouse at Schreiner featured Schreiner students and a tribute to Leonard Peltier as I read his poetry and Joe Guzardo played Sax. I want to do more of that! Nov. 29 was Giving Tuesday, a chance to support no-profits in the community. 2017 is the 30th anniversary of the Texas Heritage Music Foundation, a non-profit I started in 1987 to preserve and perpetuate traditions in Texas music. Your membership supports our programs, many of which are in this community. www.texasheritagemusic.org The coffeehouse series at Schreiner is February, March and April. See our website and/or Facebook for details.

Ils Sont Partis.

Kathleen is the founder and executive director of the Texas Heritage Music Foundation. This episode, she tells us about the Bob Dylan concert she attended, and gives us some advance notice of some great upcoming Hill Country events. For a complete li

On The Road

November 2016

First my take on the October 19 Bob Dylan show in El Paso:

Let the tuning begin...as it did before each song at the Bob Dylan performance on Oct. 19, 2016 in El Paso, Texas, at the Abraham Chavez Theatre. Each instrument started up, one at a time, as we waited for Bob. The same seven big lights adorned a rather dark stage, scenes in my memory from two shows in Spain in 2015, and one in Austin. The news of his Nobel Prize in literature was fresh on my mind as were the memories of many Bob shows spanning the continent and including Montreux, Switzerland. I was in a center seat in the 4th row, number 22, a seat I purchased at the box office about 5:30 on the day of the show. I had been at the venue since 3:30 so I could glimpse the folks that gather at the bus. Two young men were there. One only wanted Charlie Sexton, Bob's lead guitar player from Austin, to sign an Archangels T-shirt. Small crowd for all the fences and security set up. We did have a "Bob" sighting as he walked into the theatre and back to the bus covered in a green hoodie and not looking around. We three just watched. Back to the stage: Bob walked in, dressed in a black dapper suit with white stiching on the arms and legs, sans white river gambler hat, new coiffed hair in place, took hold of the microphone, placed his left hand lightly on his hip, posed and sang, "Things Have Changed." Yes, Bob, we got that! The rest of the show, full of classics in new rhythms, was delivered as a message from Bob. I saw that from my new 4th row vantage point. I saw his eyes gleam, his mouth grin with whimsey, his stance at the piano, and his careful posing. Engaging in many ways, Bob delivered this set in ways new to me. I had seen him in Las Vegas several years ago in a small venue. I watched him invite Flaco to join him in Montreux, Switzerland, at the Jazz Festival, from the front row. I had a second row scalped ticket in Oakland when he was touring with Merle Haggard and Elana Fremerman was touring with him on violin. And this night in El Paso felt sweet. I am the kind of fan who loves ALL he does, and the fan who loves his voice and delivery. So for me to even feel a difference is interesting. Noticeable. The evening ended with an encore, of course. "Blowing in the Wind," with a new tune and rhythm as Bob played piano (no guitar in the show), and then the final message from Bob: "Don't Try to Change Me Now." Yes, my brain that sees patterns saw the word CHANGE as a set of bookends for a flawless show. I loved the atonal tuning before each song, sounds that slowly coalesced into a song. I loved the rock nature of the performance, and moved in my seat. Some rather unthoughtful people HAD to stand and dance on "Tangled Up In Blue," on the second row. I understood the urge, as I had it too, but did not appreciate the enthusiasm blocking my view. A rock version of this song had these two jumping out of their skin. Seemed the song was a special one for them. And the love songs! Again, a couple in front of me, both tall, had to kiss incessantly while Bob sang, "Make You Feel My Love." Maybe I was jealous, but they also blocked my view. This night on the border, where the Rio Grande separates two worlds I love, I heard and witnessed a performance by a man who deserves the Nobel prize in literature, a man who has documented our culture, influenced our society, and led us down paths exploring our inner world. KH Next, a look ahead at November in Texas music. Johnny Nicholas hosts his Big Band Bash at this Hilltop Cafe, the first Bash without his dear companion and wife, Brenda. And this is the third Bash where Johnny donates some of the proceeds to the THMF for a new songwriting school for young people. THMF celebrates 30 years in 2017, and the debut of the Jimmie Rodgers Songwriting School is an offering to the community, thanks to Johnny. See our website for details as the year approaches. The show at the Hilltop Cafe includes a great meal as well as the music and a mystery guest each night. I may have to be there all three nights this year. November 10-13. And November 13 I head to the Cactus Cafe in Austin to hear Tom Russell. Too many years since I have sat at the feet of that literary giant. His music and art are a thread in my own history, including the time we met in Frutigen, Switzerland, at the Songwriters Festival produced by Aschi Maurer. Gallo del Cielo is a small novel in song. My dear friend, Bill Worrell, called "El Paso" by Marty Robbins a novel in song so giving him credit for the phrase! Yes, my El Paso experience with Dylan also included a meal at Rosa's Cantina in honor of my dad, David Pillow, a man who loved that album, "Gunfighter Ballands." FLASH! Just in. The 4 Proches will play at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6, at the First Presbyterian Church in Kerrville as a fundraiser for the GA chapter of PEO, an organization dear to my mother's heart! And mine. Tickets at $20 for adults and $5 for under 12. Come to hear some very lively gospel, some originals, some classics. Everyone loves this band. They are part of our THMF 30th anniversary Heritage Music Day on September 29, 2017. Yes, we celebrate 30 years in 2017 so keep a heads up for events. Jeff Heyen is showcasing local and Texas music on his online radio show, wwww.tabc.com based at the Milagro Restaurant in Fredericksburg. Nautilus Bar in Kerrville has invited THMF to showcase performers there. 290Texas series is alive in Johnson City with Nov. 12 show on the website....290texas.com. The THMF coffeehouse series closes this Fall with a November 1 tribute to Schreiner music and English departments. Just alerting you to some new music scenes to try out. House concerts are flourishing. Friday nights at the Barbecue stand with Tonya in Ingram is hopping, and Mark Piper is playing a regular gig at the Wine Store in Ingram. Facebook also has most of the music information. This newsletter is a look at some behind the scenes views. Richard Dobson, a songwriter with years of great experience now living in Switzerland, will be in Texas touring, and he visits my class on Oct. 27. Students will be creating digital essays on Texas music for this class, and we will put some on the THMF website. The office is still looking for a part-time office manager. Single mom, student, or graduate of the Christian Women's Job Corp. An employment grant from the Cailloux Foundation. Good for all involved! Students and volunteers are now running the office. A fun circus for me and for them. Last but not least, Feb. 14 is a red letter date on the calendar: David Broza from Israel will host his documentary film, East Jerusalem/West Jerusalem produced by Steve Earle, and then play a coffeehouse set at Schreiner. PUT that on your calendar. Sponsors and volunteers needed. email [email protected] or call me at 830-377-3186. Interested in any sponsorship for the anniversary year? Coffeehouse, songwriting school, scholarship, fundraiser, Texas Heritage Music Day? Contact me before the end of the year. Planning in full swing.

ils sont partis.

On The Road

October 2016

The 2016 Texas Heritage Music Day was a wild success for about 1200 people, including 900 students and teachers. I say “wild success” because I watched the students interact with stories and songs in ways I know make a huge difference, because I watched performers glow with the interaction, because I love having a chance to tell my story to others. We are already planning for 2017, the last Friday in September AND a separate fundraiser for the THMF and our Kennemer Scholarship Fund.

Some highlights from the weekend, my birthday weekend too, include the following: Max Baca, Josh Baca and Noel Hernandez kicking off the tribute to our Tex/Mex heritage; Joseph Fagenbush leading the Gospel music tribute; President Summerlin of Schreiner singing “Dreaming With Tears In My Eyes,” during the noon tribute to Jimmie Rodgers; Stephanie Urbina Jones and Florin Sanchez performing together (Florin being a first time scholarship recipient); and all the presenters out on the grounds. Seeing groups of students gathered around various demonstrations on Texas history and Texas music made my heart sing. Most of the performers are now THMF family, and we do this together.

The next three months are time to plan for 2017! If you want to be on a team, let me know. Volunteers and sponsors! [email protected] or 830-377-3186. Spread the word and BE the street team for 2017.

Focus on the future: Oct. 5 is our coffeehouse featuring Kim Meeks and Her Bad Habits. Expect pure Americano music from this strong woman celebrating Texas music Month. Oct. 15 is our annual Past is Prologue workshop at Schreiner, using Native American stories as another way of learning. Curious? Sign up. AND Nov. 10 -12 is the Johnny Nicholas Big Band Bash at the Hilltop Café on the Mason Highway. He is donating some of the proceeds to a new THMF project, a songwriting school for young people.

I must say something here about working with Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines. I watched them perform at the Kroc Center for an after school program on Thursday, Sept. 29. Both were totally engaged AND they engaged all the kids. I was told by their program leaders, “This performance engaged more kids than any.” Terri has shared her huge heart with many over the years, and I was moved to witness this. Her own foundation, OYOU, is hosting a series for people with diagnosed seizure disorders in San Marcos, and she just gave a women’s retreat in August. And she performs for house concerts, festivals, and I use her book in my writing class. On Friday, Sept. 30, I was witness to her interaction with students before her evening concert. As she shared her advice to stay authentic, we witness her own authenticity! I will be heading back to class tomorrow, Oct. 4, to host a visit from Buddy Mondlock, another songwriter who stays authentic. My students are writing papers on Texas music and gathering information from songwriters.

My column can be found in Hill Country Happenings starting in their Nov/Dec issue. That magazine has been through some changes, and the new version is out on the streets. I also write for Greg Forest and Texas Heart Beat, a quarterly magazine. My column there focuses on the women in Texas music.

Ils sont partis.

Spend a few minutes with Kathleen Hudson, founder and Executive Director of the Texas Heritage Music Foundation. If anyone knows Hill Country music and events, it's Kathleen. She'll tell you about the Texas Heritage Music Day coming up on Sept. 30. Y

Kathleen Hudson is the founder and Executive Director of the Texas Heritage Music Foundation based in Kerrville. Today, she shares a few of the awesome events coming up in the Hill Country this month. As you watch this video, be sure to have your cal

On The Road

September 2016

Stayed a little closer to the home place this August. Enjoying new horse energy at the Dancing Star Ranchita. Nietzshe said “Chaos gives birth to dancing stars.” I like that. Missing my summer trip to San Miguel de Allende but looking ahead to another trip soon. I am faculty in February at the San Miguel de Allende Literary Conference, a stellar event that I would not miss even if not faculty! I once studied with Tom Robbins there, and then heard Barbara Kingsolver stun us with her perspective on writing. Cheryl Strayed told us her story there before we watched the movie. Wild. And lest you think I have gone on a wild tangent, Texas music has created a space in San Miguel de Allende. Delbert McClinton has a home there; Marcia Ball visits regularly; and Carrie Cameron has been producing Magic Town Music showcasing some great Texas music. Yes, Texas and Mexico. Sisters!

Now back to my road across Texas. I spent an intimate evening with Mike Blakely at the 290texas series in Johnson City. Stories and songs entertained us in the spacious living room of Steve and Gail Bartlett. The essence of this series is intimate performances. Sept. 19 we return to Johnson City with Jon Hogan and Maria Moss and Scorch Folk. That means Jimmie Rodgers tribute and some great information on the Carter Family.

I also gave a workshop at the women’s retreat hosted by Terri Hendrix and her non-profit, Own Your Own Universe. I also donated a scholarship in the name of Katherine “Peanut” Burton, a dear creative young woman who left us too early. I was moved by this group of women exploring many aspects of creativity, and met a songwriter from East Texas names Heather Little. Seems she had a few cuts by Miranda Lambert! Her story, so humble, inspired me as I led the women through some writing exercises. And my story on Heather ended up in Texas Heartbeat magazine published by Greg Forest and Karen Utterback. The Fall issue. Pick one up in the Hill Country.

The Kerrville Wine and Music Festival is labor day weekend, just missing this deadline. It is always great, always has a few surprises for even the veterans, and always opens up my heart a little more. Ray Wylie Hubbard plays on Sunday.

Los Texmaniacs had a surprise concert weekend at Roddy Tree in August, showcasing Flaco Jimenez Jr.! Pruneda plays there each Sunday, but the season is coming to an end. History keeps being made at that special Hill Country venue.

Hans Bauer, photographer, is working on a series of portraits of working Hill Country musicians. I watched him in action at Luckenbach, and I must say he creates the art right in front of us and adds to it as he publishes the portrait on facebook in about 24 hours. I am amazed, and the work is splendid. Looking forward to the day the THMF can showcase a photo exhibit for him. In the future.

Ahead: Sept. 27 at Rivers Edge Gallery Jon Hogan and Maria Moss will provide a preview of the Heritage Music Day for the students I have and the public. Join us at 5 p.m. that day. Tuesday.

September 30 is a big day with over 50 performers spread out around the Robbins Lewis Pavilion on the Schreiner campus. Some highlights include a gospel hour at 9, a tribute to Hispanic heritage with Max Baca y Los Texmaniacs at 10. Florin Sanchez and Stephanie Urbina Jones will join us. George Ensle will emcee the songwriters and tribute to Jimmie Rodgers at noon. Join us. Volunteer? Find new sponsors? Remember…we are already working on the 30th anniversary in 2017

Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines are our special evening concert on Sept. 30 with a reception hosted by sponsor TPR at 6:30. Admission by donation so join us! Cailloux Student Center on the Schreiner campus. Be sure and check out the new nonprofit…Own Your Own Universe. Terri is doing great things with only 3 years of history. I have invited her to be our songwriter in residency next April at Schreiner. See our website for details at the beginning of the year. A heads up.

Thursday, Sept. 29, Lee Duffy and the Austin Songwriters Group will host a tribute to Merle and Jimmie at the YO Hotel bar. 7 p.m. Join us! Lee is a songwriter, director of the ASG, and has some great Merle stories!

Dylan plays El Paso on Oct. 19 and Lubbock Oct. 20. Road trip?? Tickets are outrageous, but the experience seems worth it to me. Dylan, Texas and Jimmie Rodgers. A triangle of influences.

Just too much to talk about.

ILS SONT PARTIS

Kathleen is the founder and Executive Director of the Texas Heritage Music Foundation based in Kerrville in the Heart of the Hill Country. There's some really cool stuff on the way to the Hill Country. Watch the video and find out all about it.For mo

On The Road Aug. 2016

On The Road

August 2016

Looking ahead to August the THMF has our monthly 290Texas house concert featuring Mike Blakely on Aug. 6. RSVP at 290texas.com for directions and instructions. If you receive this newsletter, you are invited. Mike, author of over 15 Western novels, recipient of many writing and performing awards, brings his own style to a concert that focuses on the song! The monthly Sunday afternoon at Roddy Tree in Ingram continues at 4 p.m. with Jr. Pruneda and friends. Classic Western Swing and country music from an award-winning octogenarian performer. Dancing invited.

My July stories are numerous: Becky Patterson and I have been enjoying the Thursday nights at the Double D in Comfort. Stew Crawford and Fritz Morquecho hold down the fort with authentic country and Tex/Mex music. Albert Flores and Gary too. 7-9 each Thursday night. And musicians jam old time music from 12:30-1:30 on Thursdays at Dietert Center in Kerrville.

First, July 4 in Louise Hayes Park in Kerrville. The Seth Kendrick Band rocked the stage and Robert Earl Keen brought it home with his strong songs and his intimate performance. Yes, Keen in his hometown always feels intimate, even with the huge 4th crowd. Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis added some great music including “Traveling Soldier,” a poignant tribute.

A newly named club, The Squeezebox, on N. St. Mary’s in San Antonio is providing a place for the authentic San Antonio sound. I went over for Esteban Jordan III and for the Texmaniacs. Too crowded, and hot inside, but the patio out back with the sound blasting is a good place to listen. Am I showing age? I did go over 5 days after surgery so a little stressful on me. Haha.

I have some great photos on Facebook to prove the experience was worth it…and colorful. Yes, check out my own Facebook page, the Texas Heritage Music Foundation page and group, and my own author page. Two websites too….www.kathleenhudson.net and wwww.texasheritagemusic.org

July 13 I headed to Antone’s in Austin to hear Marcia Ball, Angela Strehli and Lou Ann Barton, a reunion. Two of the women are in my first book, and Lou Ann, “Hip Shake,” is part of my Ft. Worth history as well as a spectacular trip to the Montreux Jazz Festival where Claude Nobs asked me to go get her to perform with him. He was the producer and playing harmonica. What a show. Denny Freeman, a piece of the Antone’s story, was onstage and Johnny Moeller joined on guitar too. I was overcome with memories as I remembered that my first time at Antone’s on Guadalupe Street was in 1984. Yes, I was late to join that scene.

The music at Antone’s took me back to my own beginning following music. Antone’s club on Guadalupe where Clifford invited me in and encouraged me to interview performers. Thanks, Clifford. Young Eve Monsees, who I first heard with Gary Clark Jr. (now co-owner of Antone’s) killed it on guitar and a performer new to me, Jai Melano, delivered the blues, “Rock Me Baby,” opening the evening for the women. Strong performance.

July 16 290Texas showcased Will Owen Gage in the park in Johnson City. A birthday celebration for Paul Sumrall, the event also raised over $2,000 for the Kennemer Scholarship Fund. Thanks Paul! And the night of music was hot. First, with Frank Rodarte on Sax, we got some schooling on the history of San Antonio music. Then we heard a Steve Ray Vaughan song and several by Jimi Hendrix. Signature pieces for this young performer, and we had to hear them! He is on tour now with Two Tons of Steel, and they play Gruene Hall on Tuesdays for a while. Check them out.

I had the privilege of being in the Blue Cat Studio with Stephanie Urbina Jones, Joe Trevino (owner) and Michael Guerra (on accordion) as Stephanie added some accordion tracks to a new recording she is finishing. A tribute to some classic country performed with Mariachis she used from El Paso while recording in Santa Fe. Yes, a very creative project.

Another collaborative project with THMF is the October 8 Squeezebox Festival in Austin, hosted by Joel Guzman and Sarah Fox. Joel has dreams of this becoming an international festival featuring the accordion. He teaches, performs and most recently went on tour with Paul Simon. He has also played events for the THMF. Put the date on your calendar and consider sponsorship activities. Donations can be sent to the THMF office or through the website, marked Squeezebox.

The last two weeks of July I had surgery and rested….some. Actually, I was driving two days after my return home so all went well. Met a sculptor, Miracle, who is working on a Merle statue. We planted some seeds for THMF collaboration. On Saturday, July 30, I accompanied photographer and artist Hans Bauer to Luckenbach, watching him take photos for his American Pickers Series. We heard Whitney Rose with Lisa Pankratz on drums and Dennis Fellon on guitar. Whitney is on tour with some classic country, a strong voice and a very very young appearance. Aha…there that age thing goes again. Maybe. See Bauer art on facebook for some striking images photographed at Luckenbach, including Mike Blakely.

I am getting ready to start school. The music office is looking for our next production/office assistant. Nicole Wilkins returns to school Aug. 18. Know anyone? Alyssa Cole has done a great job as summer intern. Taryn Gobyn has been a volunteer at the office, along with a few others. Taryn moves into work-study to handle the coffeehouse September 7 we feature Max Baca y Los Texmaniacs. 7-9 in the Lion’s Den. A 4:30 meet and greet with students and fans. He returns for the Texas Heritage Music Day on Sept. 30. We are looking for sponsors for his double appearance in Kerrville. A grammy award-winning performer who has recorded for the Smithsonian Folkway Label. Contact the office if interested. AND we still need sponsors for Sept. 30. [email protected] or 830-792-1945.

Ils sont partis.

Kathleen is the founder and Executive Director of the Texas Heritage Music Foundation. In this edition, she fills us in on some exciting stories and some really cool venues. Be sure to check it out. For a complete listing of Hill Country music and ev

On the Road - July 2016

I have just returned from my annual journey to the West Coast. I experience a literary calling from that coast, and the Young Rhetorician’s Conference in Monterey is an important part of my journey in life. I went there first to find my mentor Gabriele Rico. After some years, I became a co-chair with her friend Sterling Warner. Then she left this earth, and I carry her message about writing with me. Using both clustering and the feeling flow, I am able to honor different parts of my brain and uncover what I want to say. And I share this with students

What I want to say this month includes an invitation to the free Robert Earl Keen concert in Louise Hayes Park in Kerrville on July 4. Gates open at noon, music begins at 4 with REK playing at 8 followed by fireworks. David Vincent and Danny B. Harvey play at 4:30, Sean Kendricks Band (local and rocking) play at 5:15, Bruce Robison plays at 6:30. Local business sponsors make this happen each year. I also invite you to the THMF/290Texas concert to be held in the park in Johnson City on July 16 featuring Will Owen Gage. Like that good Texas guitar? Want to be with some real blues? Will Owen is the man. This concert will be a birthday celebration for 290 founder Paul Sumrall, and he is requesting donations for the THMF at his party! Good gifts I say. See the schedule on 290texas.com for future house concerts. Mike Blakely coming up!

I have too many stories to share from the Kerrville Folk Festival 45th anniversary, but I will include some highlights: Peter Rowan and Rex Foster sharing an evening with surprise guest, REK; Peter Yarrow talking to us about music activism and bullying; Terri Hendrix, Lloyd Maines, Ruthie Foster and Mary Gauthier playing a fest of hugs and love; David Amram bringing his 80 years of experience to the stage once again, memories of Jack Kerouac; David Broza from Israel hosting a film called East Jerusalem, West Jerusalem and giving us a full concert (I have invited him to Schreiner on Feb. 14!); New Folk concerts revealing the top six (out of about 800 entries); and more and more. My life is changed once again because of this festival. My heart is larger and my eyes see further. Thank you KFF. Mary Muse, director, and Dalis Allen, producer, are a team to draw to.

I am enjoying my bi-monthly video blog with Jim Leavell. My pal Velanne Howell is managing the calendar now, so expect it to be good. www.thehillcountrycalendar.com

I am researching for my third oral history, and my recent interview with Rick Del Castillo in his Kyle studio is a source of inspiration for me. Latin, Hispanic, and Tejano voices are featured in this book. Ahead is a talk with Alejandro Escovedo, Joel Guzman, Al Gomez, Gina Chavez, Sister Morales and more. I already have 20 interviews collected. Listen to the wild passion of Del Castillo, my new favorite for now. Alex Ruiz is singing and the Castillo brothers are both on flamenco/rock/rhythmic guitar. When they play with film director Robert Rodriquez, the band is Chingon. Perfect. Yes, I love those movies set in Mexico. Robert uses his sisters’ music as well, “Traeme Paz,” is one of the songs in Once Upon a Time in Mexico. Oh the stories I have collected!

Max Baca y Los Texmaniacs was the first interview, and they return Sept. 7 for the THMF coffeehouse at Schreiner and Sept. 30 for the Texas Heritage Music Day. Special interview on Sept. 7 at 4:30 with students and community. Consider joining THMF at www.texasheritagemusic.org and like us on facebook! We do need volunteers and sponsors for the event. Want to showcase your business? Contact me at [email protected] Want to join us in a free educational program singing songs and telling stories. Join the team by contacting the office. Performers needed as well. Thursday night, Sept. 29, Lee Duffy and the Austin Songwriters Group (ASG) will host a tribute to both Merle and Jimmie in the bar of the YO Ranch Hotel. 7 p.m. Join us there. Ils sont partis.

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