Townes Van Zandt
Townes Van Zandt (1944-1997) was a country-folk singer-songwriter and poet and is considered by many to have been one of the best singer-songwriters ever. His songs have been covered by many famous artists, including Willy Nelson and Merle Haggard, Norah Jones, Lyle Lovett, EmmeLou Harris, Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams, Nanci Griffith, Steve Earle, Gillian Welch, Cowboy Junkies, John Prine, Guy Clark, and Wrecks Bell, among others. Although he never attained great fame with the general public, he is regarded with high esteem in the music industry and with songwriters in particular, and his lyrics continue to inspire many songwriters today. His song lyrics are often bittersweet and filled with crushing dispare. A documentary about Townes' life titled "Be Here to Love Me: A Film About Townes Van Zandt" was released in 2006.
Biography
Born the third great-grandson of Isaac Van Zandt, a prominent figure of the Republic of Texas, Townes was groomed for political office. He was known for both his intellect and his athletic prowess. After being diagnosed as a manic-depressive, he was subjected to insulin shock therapy which removed most of his memories. This caused a marked change in Townes' personality, leading him to be more reclusive and drop all athletic endeavors. His interests in singer-songwriters lead him to drop out college and abandon politics.
Songs of Townes Van Zandt Covered by Other Artists
| Artist | Song Titles |
|---|---|
| Wiily Nelson & Merle Haggard | Pancho and Lefty |
| Norah Jones | Be Here to Love Me |
| EmmyLou Harris | If I Needed You |
| Lyle Lovett | Flyin' Shoes, Be Here to Love Me |
| Guy Clark | Don't You Take It Too Bad |
| Nanci Griffith | Tecumseh Valley |
The Old Quarter (Houston)
The Old Quarter Accoustic Cafe (Galveston) - Annual Townes Van Zandt Wake
An annual Townes Van Zandt Wake is held every year on the evening of January 1rst at the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe, in Galveston Texas, as a musical tribute to Townes' songs. Musicians from Texas, the US and Europe congregate for an evening of Townes' music, played by amateurs and professional musicians alike. Rex Bell, the proprietor, always sings the first and last songs of the evening. Traditionally, a bottle of vodka, Townes' favorite drink, is set before the stage for all to share.
The Hemmeridge Mountain Boys
The Hemmeridge Mountain Boys served as Townes' band for many years and consisted of Rex (Wrecks) Bell, the namesake for the song "Rex's Blues", on bass guitar and Mickey White on lead guitar. Mickey went on to become a teacher while Rex became a solo artist with several albums to his credit. Rex and J.T. Van Zandt, Townes' son, released an album together titled "Live at the Old Quarter Accoustic Cafe". Rex Bell also played bass for Lightnin' Hopkins, one of Townes' influences.