Recently, I took a trip to Memphis to check out Beale Street for the first time in 35 years. I was very disappointed. I wrote an essay and posted a video about how the South has lost its musical soul. Maybe I was wrong.
First, as a longtime original songwriter and poet, I’m not taking anything back about Beale Street and Lower Broad. As far as I can see, they’ve completely sold out.
Second, I’m not taking anything back about the state of the commercial music industry in the South, or anywhere in America for that matter. It sucks.
But there are still a lot of great musicians and songwriters in the South that play and write from the heart. In fact, the majority of independent musicians in America are still holding onto their souls. The problem is, if they have some musical integrity, the likelihood of gaining entrance into the commercial industry is minimal.
Last week, I saw two of my favorite living songwriters: Bill Callahan and Rodney Crowell. Guess what? They’re both from the South, Texas to be exact. And they are both unique and soulful voices in the world of music.
Bill Callahan breaks so many boundaries with his unique style that he would never be picked up by any major label. Rodney Crowell had his day as a hit songwriter. He’s still writing great songs. But he’s also sharing the stage with new musicians and spotlighting their talents.
So, is it the South? No. It’s the industry. It’s kind of like America in general.
One percent of Americans hold 99% of the wealth. The rest of us are just trying to get by. It’s the same with music. One percent of musicians get highlighted by fighting or buying their way into the commercial industry. The other 99% are playing dive bars and living rooms.
Let’s stay in touch. – dse
