And now, for a little singing & strumming.🎸

Audio essay: Silver Wings, by Merle Haggard (©1969)

Every time I start to feel a tad self-conscious about sharing my strumming and singing with the general public, I hear the voice of Bob Dylan in my ear (you know, sort of off key and raspy—like a hacksaw cutting rusty sheet metal?).

“Hey, man, don’t sweat it! It ain’t the singer. It’s the song.”

And suddenly, I feel a tad better.

I’ve always loved Merle’s Silver Wings. Yes, it’s a (beautifully simple) heartbreaker from the classic country catalog. But to me, that’s what makes it so universally appealing, since nobody—regardless of race, creed, color or shoe size—is immune from loss.

So, without further ado…

Next time, something a little more hopeful/encouraging (from the Adkins catalog): Beyond the Sun.

As always, I appreciate your readership (listenership?) and support!

Peace & Love,

Mark