…to the International Folk Alliance gathering in Memphis, home of Al Green and WC Handy – oh, and Elvis.  It’s a totally over-the-top festival (in mid February) where music and stories abound ’round the clock, and heros of the art form mix it up side by side with courageous, unheard of ones.  They all bring songs and let ‘em simmer there in a stew with about 400 other writers and modern troubadours.  Down on Beale Street you could get the notion that songs are essential – you eat ‘em for breakfast, you breathe them all day in and out of windows and doorways, you drink them like midnight elixir.  I have played some great music towns, and hung out with some remarkable talents, but this thing in Memphis is different.  It’s a kind of a vortex drawing odd souls together.  The point is to find some kind of dialogue among the muses, ghosts, and fresh spirits wandering the hallways of a downtown hotel.  And, yes, I know it’s a conference for songwriters, publishers, labels, publicists, and folks trying to figure out how to make this madness into something like a career.  God bless us every one.

I am happy to tell you that a young artist, Grace Pettis, whose new album I produced, will be showcasing in Memphis as well. Grace is getting some great national attention, winning awards, and is someone to keep your eye on.

Thanks for every bit of your kindness, emails, ideas, and engaged listening.  Always.