Courtenay’s Cuts: Session 3

I’m going to borrow a line from the Misfits this week and say “Texas is the reason!” All my selections for this week come to us courtesy of musicians from this very great state.

OLD
Janis Joplin – Cry Baby (1971)

Hailing from Port Arthur, Janis is not only one of the best in Texas but arguably one of the best American artists. You can hate her voice, but you can’t deny it is unique. As always, I’m a sucker for the blues, and this gem from her 1971 album Pearl is blues city. Check it out.

NEW
John David Kent and the Dumb Angels – My Girl (2009)

I can honestly say this song finally got me to dabble in the Texas country scene of today. And I’m glad I did! John David Kent comes from Celeste. Some trivia for you Ben Kweller fans out there (another Texan worth mentioning): JDK was the drummer in Radish, a band of which BK was also a member of. All I can say is listen to this song! You’ll love it. Then you can go check JDK and the Dumb Angels and Somebody’s Darling out at Granada this Saturday (9/12). It’s gonna be a fun time – those who buy tickets get the new Somebody’s Darling CD for free! Talk about recession fun.

BORROWED
Buddy Holly – I’m Looking for Someone to Love (1957)

Buddy Holly is in this category not for what he has borrowed, but for what his very influential place in the history of rock and roll. So he’s not the borrower, but the lender. I know it’s a stretch, but just go with it! A Texas list would not be complete without Lubbock-born Buddy Holly. This is a fun little ditty.

BLUE
Blind Lemon Jefferson – See That My Grave is Kept Clean (1927)

Does it get anymore classic blues than Blind Lemon Jefferson? Listening to this song gives me chills – there’s nothing bluer than death. This one really hits home for me. I suppose his mysterious death only 2 years after the release of this song may something to do with that as well. This song has been covered by many different artist, including Bob Dylan, but my favorite is still the original.

by Courtenay Paris