The end of an era. George Strait, Rodney Crowell, and Emmylou Harris are the best known traditional country artists still touring. I remember in college when George had his first big hit with Unwound. #6 on the country charts in 81. He had three singles in the top 10 in 82 (Amarillo by Morning and "Marina del Rey are the other two). He got his first #1 with Fool Hearted Memory in 82. He’s had dozens of #1 hits since then. I’ve never seen him live, but listen to his albums regularly. Discography.
What a way to go out. Playing for 105,000 fans! Wow!
That’s a big crowd. But The Stones played to over 1 million people in Rio. (Let’s not dwell too long on the slightly-disturbing fact that Rod Stewart saw an audience of 3.5m on Copacabana).
I can’t believe I forgot to mention Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard are still touring. Both approaching eighty but still making great *traditional *country music.
George Strait is finished touring. He’s still got a deal to record some new albums.
In light of this success, any bets on when he comes out of retirement, and whether he will do it faster or slower than the Stones whenever they have a “final” tour? Or is he dying/going senile, like Glen Campbell? While “sick of touring” makes perfect sense to me, it doesn’t seem to last for performers.
You better check yourself while she’s dancing on the sand, you poster person!
This brings back a memory of when I moved to Houston back in 1985. My friend came home from work and and breathlessly proclaimed that she’d won two tickets to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which included admission to the George Strait concert.
Me: “Who’s George Strait?” Silly me.
Love his work. “Amarillo by Morning” will always be in my Top 10 favorite songs. He’s really an incredibly gifted singer. Phrasing, tone, emotion? Yeah, that man can sing. A tip of the ten gallon hat to you, sir.
Playing for 105,000 fans! Wow!