Am I the only one who finds that their music selections are heavily influenced by the seasons?
Something about the fall makes me want to listen to country or alt-country, or just anything where the acoustic guitar is used.
As of late, I've been on a big Gram Parsons kick. This happens a few times a year and it's always a welcomed mood.
What I love about Parsons is the selections you have. From his work with, the International Submarine Band, the Byrds, the Flying Burrito Brothers (which coincidentally is the best name for a band ever), or his solo albums. Each is a little different than the other yet still maintains his style of songwriting and his country influence.
You'll always see him referenced as being a founder or main influence of country rock. And many times people will say he was a huge influence on the Stones during the Exile recording. All I know is that, to me his music sounds like an old friend...And by that I mean the old friend that when you see them, you end up drinking all night long and playing air guitar at multiple times.
Obviously the most tragic thing about Parson's music is that there isn't more out there. Like many rock stars of that era, Gram died young of a drug overdose.
The story of his life is one that sounds like it could have been made up; heir to a large fruit grove and shipping company, had a father named "Coon Dog", enrolled and dropped out of Harvard, went to L.A. to become a famous musician, became friends with the Rolling Stones, and finally, burnt out before he faded away.
For those of you that like alt country, country, classic rock, or just music in general you need to listen to his music. And might I add that you should drink a can of Coors when you do....
Be sure to check out these tracks when you do:
$1000 Wedding
Hot Burrito # 1
Six Days on the Road
Sin City
Dark End of the Street
A Song for You
Kiss the Children
Wheels
Hickory Wind
