It Might Kill Me

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. I've been busy taking this show on the road, demo-ing new hits and trying to keep my secret life from spiraling out of control.

In the meantime, please feel free to follow me on Facebook.

Or check out my Instagram. It's like porn for people who like cats. And for people who like porn.

Merry Christmas.

Linda Ronstadt

2011-08-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

Historically, women have had a really tough time in this world compared to their male counterparts.

They've been treated like second-class citizens, exploited, objectified, oppressed and misunderstood.

Unless of course we're talking about beautiful women. In that case the world is their oyster and they get whatever they want handed to them on a silver platter and all they have to do is cry or pout to get their way.

Then there's women like Linda Ronstadt. Not exactly beautiful. But talented, hard-working, intelligent and still good-looking enough to not scare off small children.

Linda Ronstadt came from country/folk roots and worked w/ Eagles before they were Eagles. She was smart enough to sing songs written by the best songwriters of the 70s: Jackson Browne, Warren Zevon and Neil Young.

And most importantly, when country music went from bad to worse in the 1980s, she jumped ship and swam to Pop Island. Where the cocaine flows like wine and the hits grow on palm trees. Cocaine palm trees.

Here she is sounding/looking good - a stark reminder that although women should not be allowed to vote, they should be allowed to sing if they can sing.

(sexist)

"New" Hank Williams album

2011-08-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

Bob Dylan - who can barely sing/move anymore, and Jack White - who is perfect in every way, are contributing to this new Hank Williams project.

The concept is simple: Unfinished Hank Williams songs/lyrics, found in Hank's briefcase when he died, will be completed by people who are (mostly) still alive.

Kinda reminds me of Mermaid Avenue.

Also cool that my girlfriend Norah Jones is also helping out, but definitely a little weird that I first hear about this news on the internet when Norah could just talk to me.

I'm right here baby.

Let's talk.

Which song should I cover?

2011-07-25T23:21:00.000-07:00

The thing about a classic is that you can't really improve upon it.

But if I was shooting for excellence I would have stuck w/ modeling, like Cowboy Kate.

Louvin Brothers - What Is Home Without Love?

Bobby Bare - Streets Of Baltimore

George Jones - Just One More

Conway Twitty - I See The Want (To) In Your Eyes

(Sang by) Merle Haggard - You Take Me For Granted

You can now buy the CD

2011-07-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

Right here. Five country hits for five bucks.

(If you can't afford it, just email President Barack Obama and I'm sure he'll take care of you.)

New EP, More Shows and a Message to all the little people

2011-07-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

God knows no one else is going to talk about my music, so I'm going to do something Americans used to believe in: Take Responsibility For Myself.

My new 5-song EP It Might Kill Me is available for download on iTunes and Bandcamp.

The album was produced by myself and Matt Wignall and recorded (mostly) live to analog tape.

If you're into physical discs - CDs are available at my local record store - Fingerprints Music in Long Beach, CA.

I'll also have CDs for sale at my upcoming shows, including a "gig" at Pappy & Harriet's in September. Full schedule is right over there. -->

And for those of you who don't/won't download music, can't/shan't make it to my shows or simply enjoy the buzz of receiving mail, I'll soon have a little store set up where you can order the CD for delivery. (UPDATE : The CD is available for order!)

Lastly, I'd like to say how thankful I am for the all the folks that performed on these recordings and that I couldn't have done it without you.

I'd also like to remind those same people that you couldn't have done it without me. So it's not like I owe you or something. I wrote all the songs and I'm the lead singer.

And when I inevitably rise from obscurity to stardom, I won't forget all the little people I used to call "friends". I will also do my best to remember your names and pretend to recognize you if we ever bump into each other. I'll even try to be 'cool about it' when you have to prove to some girl that you know the famous Sam Outlaw by calling me from your cell phone and putting her ear up to the phone and having me sing a few lines from one of my hits as she listens and giggles with delight.

I'll be honest - that's a pretty lame way to get a girl, but I get it.

xo

PS - That's Greg Leisz in the top pic. He was kind enough to play pedal steel on my EP and proved once again that he's the reigning king. (If you look closely at the background you can see my mind being blown.)

The Jayhawks

2011-06-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Jayhawks is an alt-country / folk-rock band that was born in the 80s, but flourished in the 90s when similar bands like Uncle Tupelo (pre-Wilco Jeff Tweedy) and Whiskeytown (pre-Ryan Adams Ryan Adams) were also making delicious country-influenced rock.

The band was led by Gary Louris and Mark Olson - two guys who can both write great songs and sing like angels.

I like The Jayhawks because they produced beautiful/catchy music that never want off the Pop Music deep end.

Probably the worst thing I could say about The Jawhawks is that most of the time they sound exactly like The Byrds, but that's hardly something to complain about.

When Mark Olson left the band he continued to make quality music w/ his new band The Creekdippers - a folk band that included his then-wife psych-folker Victoria Williams.

Gary Louris replaced Olson w/ some guy no one cares about and the band pushed on for a while. Now Louris plays solo and as a member of (don't call it a) supergroup, Golden Smog.

I was lucky enough to see a Jayhawks reunion of sorts at SXSW a few years back - Mark and Gary on stage, singing Jayhawks songs together. They looked like old men but sounded no worse for the wear.

And perhaps the same could be said for me.

Sure, I'm a little older than I used to be. But each new line in my complexion holds a beautiful story. Each grey hair tells of a life lived w/out fear.

For I am eternal.

I am a SOUL.

P-A-A-A-R-T-Y

2011-06-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

Jack White is getting divorced from his model/singer wife whatever-her-name-is-who-cares. And they're having a party to show everyone how cool they are.

Obviously this is 100% great for Jack, but it's not totally bad for the woman he's leaving behind. She can alway say that she was married to Jack White.

And she will say that. A lot.

It's probably the only thing people will ever hear from her. Because she's a middle-aged woman that no one's ever heard of. What else is she going to talk about?

Willie Nelson

2011-05-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Gosh it's been too long since I've posted something on here for my 7 - 8 fans (if you include my Mom and Myself.)

Let's get back in the swing of things w/ a little Willie Nelson.

Willie Nelson wrote a trazillion country hits in Nashville for other country singers in the 60s. Then he moved to Austin, Texas and launched what became known as "Outlaw Country" in the early/mid 70s.

His voice is the voice of America and if you don't know your Willie, I suggest you start w/ Shotgun Willie.

And similar to the way the Hewbrews listened to Moses because Moses listened to God, you should listen to me.

And Moses said unto them, Have ye saved all the women alive? Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD. Now therefore kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman that hath known man by lying with him. But all the women children, that have not known a man by lying with him, keep alive for yourselves. (Numbers 31:15-18)

Wait... WHAT? Really Moses?? Kill every non-Virgin and de-v the rest of them?????

Well you're our leader so I guess we'll just go along w/ it...

But jeeze man.

Alright let's split up and get to work.

Bright lights, no smoke (and reasonably loud music)

2011-04-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

If you're in San Diego this Sunday night then please come to Lestat's for some country hits by me, Sam Outlaw, and some other music by some girl singers.

And as weird as it may be - this show is not at a bar. I repeat: Lestat's is not a bar. No booze will be served. You'll have to bring a flask or get drunk beforehand.

On the bright side, the show is all ages, which means you can finally bring that cute 19-year-old you've been sneaking around with. What a treat for you.

Bonnie Prince Billy

2011-03-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

Since everybody's a critic and I love Country Music, I pretend that my opinion about this music category is meaningful.

And while I'm busy kidding myself, I may as well spend more time talking about the stuff I like then the stuff that sucks. Besides, you probably know a shit band when you hear it.

So without further ado, I really like Bonnie 'Prince' Billy.

Feel free to get to know the man, then cozy up to his music.

Lastly in conclusion, here he is covering a Sufjan Stevens song for charity. (Rest easy, Japan. The ever-profitable indie music industry is here to help!)

Country Music + Hooters = stealing my ideas.

2011-03-21T12:23:00.000-07:00

Because I'm a classic narcissist, I assume people are always stealing my ideas - even when that conclusion is highly implausible. Whether it's a cool new invention, a song, or just a guitar riff, I know that I was the first to think of it.

So this announcement really hurt.

How could you, Kenny Chesney? Selling country hits to restaurants full of drunk white trash is my idea! I told my cat about it like two years ago.

Speaking of drunk, SXSW was really fun and sometimes really boring.

One of the fun parts included hearing this rock/country/country/rock band from Austin: Crooks. They wear cowboy hats and everything.

I also enjoyed a short/sweet set by Erin McLaughlin. Her live show is decidedly more folk/country than her first EP and I'm really looking forward to playing some shows with her in the near future.

And in conclusion, I ended up seated next to the very talented Leslie Stevens during the plane ride home. Although we have lots of mutual friends, I hadn't actually met her till yesterday. She was a really nice gal and it was wonderfully refreshing to talk to someone about good country music. If you haven't already checked out her band Leslie Stevens and The Badgers, then use Google to find her music.

Loretta calls Garth a "booger"

2011-03-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

And she also talks about how a lot of modern country music isn't really country music.

I can only assume she's being sarcastic, because of course most modern country music is total nonsense.

Anyway, I'm headed out to Austin, TX today for the annual SXSW music fest so you'll have to keep up on country music stuff on your own for a while.

Texas is always a good time, but I think I'll leave my cowboy hat at home this year. I don't wanna get my ass kicked when they find out I'm from Long Beach and drive a Volvo.

Poco

2011-03-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

Have I talked about Poco on here yet?

Poco is the country-rock band that formed when Buffalo Springfield split up.

Stills and Young went one way while Richie Furay (vocals/guitar) and Jim Messina (bass) went another way.

Poco didn't hit like Eagles but I find their albums to be more consistently high quality and true to the genre.

I might also argue that Poco's debut album, Pickin' Up The Pieces is the first real country-ROCK album, since Sweetheart Of The Rodeo was really a traditional country album voiced by rock musicians.

So yeah, I disagree w/ AllMusic.com's definition of Country Rock, but you're a big kid and can make your own boring decisions about this stuff. Maybe you think the first country rock album was this little masterpiece?

And while you're at it, try to stay away from most of today's "Country Rock" bands. Just because some bonehead dresses like it's 1969 and name-checks Gram Parsons doesn't mean the music is anywhere close to Country.

Now heeeeeeere's Poco!

PS - Who's the sweet little baby doll singing backup?

PS 2 - Please God let me re-create this music video.

Commander Cody

2011-03-09T13:45:00.000-08:00

Let's talk about Commander Cody (And His Lost Planet Airmen).

Their albums strike me as a grab bag of different styles, but they recorded some fantastic Western Swing and Honky Tonk country songs.

Chances are you're most familiar w/ the tune "Seeds and Stems", but don't stop there.

The band's only "hit" was a cover of an old old song called Hot Rod Lincoln, but I prefer the Asleep At The Wheel take.

Lastly, I'd like to say a special thanks to everyone who made it out to the show at Prospector last night. I had a lot of fun and really enjoyed hearing some new songs from The Fling. Make sure you check out their new Daytrotter session and catch their shows at SXSW.

And an extra special thanks to all the young ladies who participated in the wet t-shirt contest. Such fantastic work all around it was almost too bad there had to be a "winner", but rules are rules.

Sam Outlaw w/ The Fling tonight @ Prospector. 9 pm.

2011-03-08T10:07:00.000-08:00

If I've said it once, I've said it 69 times.

The Fling is the best band in town.

They started from scratch and have built a solid following by writing/recording fantastic (Beatles-esque) songs and touring the country. A novel strategy in a time when too many bands put their best effort into name-dropping, ass-kissing, fad-grabbing and tub-thumping.

But unlike so many dorky bands out in bandland, The Fling are the real deal.

So lucky me to get to open for them tonight at my favorite Long Beach saloon.

Make sure you arrive early since Prospector's max occupancy is somewhere between 68 and 70.

(69)

Gawn Country: Ween

2011-02-26T11:14:00.000-08:00

Did you know that the 90s alt-rock duo Ween recorded a *country album in 1996?

Well they did. And it's pretty good.

The songs are solid/weird and the players include session legends such as the Jordanaires (backup vocals) and Buddy Spicher (fiddle).

Relatedly, did you know that it's possible to have an erection after death? Well it's true.

*Thanks to Anthony Arvizu for the tip.

So Bad It's Good, starring Joe Nichols

2011-02-25T14:52:00.000-08:00

Part of the reason I use this blog to talk about Good Country Music is because most of today's "country music" is trash and it tends to give the whole genre a bad name. Poopy by association, etc.

But sometimes bad can be so bad that it's really good. And that's exactly what we've got right here.

So sit back, relax and enjoy a sweet little ditty that warns women (of all ages) of the dangers inherent in middle-shelf tequila.

TGIMFF

Michael Hurley

2011-02-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

I've always found it kinda hard to find great country music released after 1975 or so. Eagles hit the scene so big that they forever changed the pop/country genre and a lot of the old-timers just got too old.

And then disco came along and everyone started enjoying cocaine and having a great time and who the hell wants to listen to a whole bunch of country sad music in a disco club?

So when I listen to Michael Hurley's best albums, Long Journey and Snockgrass, I'm surprised to find that I'm listening to albums from 1977 and 1980, respectively.

Hurley is not one hundred percent pure country, but songs like O My Stars remind me of my favorite alt country gems from the likes of Whiskeytown, Bonnie "Prince Billy" and Jayhawks. Plus, he has more than one song about monkeys.

So sort out a line and take a quick hit. There's plenty more where this came from.

Isn't It Strange?

2011-02-24T14:17:00.000-08:00

My precious and wonderful-in-every-way grandmother sent me an email 'forward' the other day. As you can see from the above sample, this particular email had a whole bunch of questions that are intended to make you feel guilty for not liking church as much as you like other things.

But I don't feel too guilty, since church pretty much sucks.

That said, Grandma is not one to be tangled with, so let's get our butts out of bed, put on our Sunday best and enjoy these selections of my favorite country gospel songs. (Followed by my answers to some hard-hitting soul-searching questions.)

Answer: No, it's not strange. $20 dollars is a lot of money in church because God exists outside of time/space, so he's not subject to inflation.When we give "back" $20 bucks, it's like funding a whole new Garden of Eden.

Answer: No, it's not strange. Church is usually boring and there's no 'previews' to help you decide if you want to see it or not. At least when I spend 120 minutes in a movie theater I've had a chance to sample the plot.

Answer: Not really. The stories in the Bible are totally insane. The News isn't much better, but at least they occasionally provide video coverage to corroborate their claims.

Answer: I think this one kind of answers its own question. Reading the Bible is boring. 100 pages would feel like a lifetime. Kinda like spending 5 minutes in a retirement home or 10 minutes w/ a blind date who turns out be an evangelical Christian.

The Real Housewives of Country Music

2011-02-23T16:26:00.000-08:00

Maybelle Carter was the Mother of Country Music and Kitty Wells was the Queen of Country Music. But betwixt the monarch and the matriarch came a few young ladies that deserve a salute.

Women like Patsy Montana, Jenny Carson and Skeeter Davis were the real deal. They could sing like angels, write hit songs, play instruments and look a hell of a lot better than their dusty male counterparts.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Sam, this is all well and good, but could they cook, clean, pick up around the house and clean??"

Well, I assume so. But unfortunately there's no real solid data to support my theory.

So at the end of the day, we just have to hope that all their success didn't distract them from their daily chores. Dinner's never been able to cook itself and automatic dishwashers weren't a common household appliance until well into the 1970s.

Enjoy.

Patsy Montana

Jenny Lou Carson

The Girls of the Golden West

Cindy Walker

Coon Creek Girls

The Davis Sisters

(BIG thanks to Andie for providing the research for this post.)

Johnny Gimble and Western Swing

2011-02-23T11:08:00.000-08:00

We had a fiddle player in our band the other night, and it got me (ta) thinkin' about Johnny Gimble.

Johnny Gimble is one of the best country fiddle players of all time. He was born a few years before the start of the first Great Depression and he's still alive. Which means he's likely going to die right smack dab in the middle of another depression.

But between Depressions, Johnny Gimble played in a ton of great country bands and further distinguished his sound by adding a fifth string to his fiddle.

One of his best gigs was playing w/ Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys in the 40s and 50s. Bob Wills basically invented the Western Swing style, which was later revived in the 70s by the unspeakably talented band Asleep At The Wheel.

On a personal note, I did not grow up listening to country music except for Asleep At The Wheel. My dad loved this band so they provided the soundtrack to countless hours of family road trips and holidays. I've also now had the pleasure of seeing them live a couple times, and boy are they something.

Any shit, let's take a YouTube journey through the wonderful world of Western Swing and Johnny Gimble. And let's all keep Ferris Bueller in our prayers. Apparently he's really sick or something??

Happy Birthday, George

2011-02-21T12:00:00.000-08:00

Today is Presidents' Day / the celebration of George Washington's birthday - one of America's greatest leaders and one of the few American Presidents that worked to uphold our Constitution and preserve citizen's individual rights.

And although the government is taking the day off, I'm happy to be working because this is how George would have wanted it. Hell, if he knew how bad our economy is, he'd probably want us all working double-shifts.

So in honor of George and the handful of good men that have effectively led the still-most-free nation in the world, here are a few words from my other favorite George.

George Jones.

Gawn Country: Beck

2011-02-18T17:29:00.000-08:00

A lot of non-country folks have made (good) country music, so I think I'm going to feature them from time to time.

First up is Beck. Beck rules. And he's made a trillion good albums and none of them really sound the same. Here he is covering George Jone's classic hit "She Thinks I Still Care".

(He kinda effs up the lyrics a bit, and doesn't appear to really know the name of the song, but all's well that ends well.)

Here's King George:

The Cold Hard Facts Of Life

2011-02-17T16:13:00.000-08:00

I watched the documentary Waiting For Superman last night. And boy does this film tell a surprising story.

Sounds like public programs aren't as effective as private ventures? And teachers being under-paid and un-firable is bad?? And unions stifle progress???

I tell ya, this movie had so many twists and turns it was like one long M. Night Shyamalan movie-ending.

So while I catch my breath, why don't you take a look/listen at another surprising story. (And don't be scared. Unlike Waiting For Superman, this horror story is juuust a story.)

A good music video from Delta Spirit

2011-02-16T14:53:00.000-08:00

I really love this song because it's catchy. And although you wouldn't know it by the shitty indie rock being crapped out by most every band these days, music is supposed to be catchy.

But don't take my word for it - just ask your mom. And tell her I said 'hi'.

Editor's Note - America's roads stretch wayyy more than a thousand miles. So I don't think Matt's lyrics are meant to be taken totally literally in this song. Kinda like those parts in the Bible about Noah fitting millions of species of animals into a single boat, the existence of Hell and the entire Book of Genesis.

Country "Hot"

2011-02-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Well, here they are. Maxim's "Hottest" Women of Country Music. And never have I so passionately used "quotes" to denote irony.

Based on the two seconds I spent perusing these airbrushed faces, I'm pretty sure we've got better lookin' ladies at my local coffee shop. Even if you count the rasta lesbians.

Which begs the question - why don't these baristas ever ask me out? It's obvious they're in love with me. Let's take a look at the facts. They always:

Remember my name
Remember my order
Say "good morning"
Are courteous

Soooo c'mon girls. It's painfully clear you're flirting with me. You wouldn't treat any guy like this. Why not just take a chance and tell me how you feel?

Anyway. Here are some country stars that deserve to be called hot. No quotes.

Thank God

2011-02-12T10:44:00.000-08:00

Another great opinion article from Wall Street Journal - this time highlighting celebrities that believe it's "God's will" for them to be super duper famous.

It's their destiny to succeed and it's God's plan to get them there.

And of course this all makes a lot of sense to me. Because if this is true - if God is really helping all these celebrities become celebrities - then that would explain a lot about all the needless suffering in the world.

God's just a tad too busy to heal AIDS babies, end draughts and hold earthquakes... Diddy's got a new album coming out!!!!!

Seatrain

2011-02-08T14:48:00.000-08:00

Do you like good country music?

Of course you do. But that's not what we're talking about right now so put your hand down.

We're talkin' 'bout Seatrain. And they're only kinda sorta country. Sometimes.

Everybody's gettin' all old-timey

2011-02-07T12:00:00.000-08:00

Few cities have such a distinctly clear vision of our nation's transcendent ethos as Seattle, WA.

Home of the Space Needle, one trillion coffee shops and the Space Needle, Seattle can see just a little further/farther down the road then/than the rest of us. (Because of the really good view from the Space Needle.)

So you just have to take their word for it when they say that "Country has never been cooler".

No really - you just have to take their word for it. Their only evidence is that Hollywood recently released two (2!!) movies that had 'country themes', and because some hip morons in NYC are drinking 'moonshine' instead of a type of whiskey that doesn't taste like barf.

So you see? America is gettin' back to its roots! America is all in love w/ America!!! Again!

And just so you can prepare, here's a little sneak peek into our not-too-distant future:

Ian Matthews

2011-02-04T12:01:00.000-08:00

Maybe you've heard of him, maybe not. But I love him and I'm going to brag about him a little.

Ian Matthews is a British singer/songwriter who had a few great bands in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He created several fantastic country/rock albums w/ his bands Plainsong and Matthews Southern Comfort and his solo albums aren't too shabby either.

Like most country music lovers - at one point Ian Matthews was into Folk Music. Which is kind of Country Music's wimpy little sister who always has a runny nose but your'e not sure if it's always runny because of allergies or because she cries a lot or because she just doesn't do a good job blowing her nose.

But eventually Matthews saw the light, left his folk band and moved to THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA to start making country music, in various forms.

Some of his songs are more traditional country/bluegrass and some of his songs are more '70s soft rock'. But 70s soft rock is the best, so listen up my chunky little chicken nuggets:

Goodnight Loving Trail

This is a Utah Phillips song that Plainsong covered. Along with lots of other folks like Tom Waits and this guy that no one's ever heard of. But since I can't find the Plainsong version on YouTube, we'll just stick w/ guy no one's ever heard of.

Even The Guiding Light

If you still think it's cool to "hate on" Eagles, then at least let yourself enjoy the best pre-Eagles Eagles music money can buy.

For The Second Time

Remember what I said about some songs being a little on the '70s soft rock' side?

If you've made it this far and want to do the right thing, just order this Plainsong double disc.

And would you mind asking the woman sitting next to me in the coffee shop to stop crying? Seriously, lady. This isn't your therapist's office.

Jack White is awesome

2011-02-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

And obviously Meg was never more than an OK drummer that had the incredible fortune of making music w/ one of the most talented songwriter-musicians in the universe.

Now that The White Stripes are 'done', Jack can make music w/out Meg dragging him down.

It Might Get Good.

STRANGE BUT TRUE UPDATE: Last night I had a dream that I was hanging out w/ The White Stripes. Jack was being pretty lame but Meg was totally cool and nice. Now don't I look foolish? Sorry Meg.

Brokeback Fountain

2011-02-02T13:38:00.000-08:00

Ever since I found out Hollywood is planning a 'girls' version of The Hangover, I've been losing sleep thinking about other movies that could use a feminine touch.

At the top of my list is a super ~~unrealistic~~ sexy, girls-only version of Brokeback Mountain.

And while I'm certainly not the first person to think of this clever premise - my movie would be "based on a true story". Just with way hotter chicks. And all artsy and in b&w, etc.

So now that I've got a blockbuster that will also appeal to the indie kids, the next step is putting together the cast. Let's say Mila Kunis and... I don't know, just shooting from the hip here... Mila Kunis again? Do we have the technology for that??

I've already got the soundtrack sorted out.

Soft Rock is back! (Kinda/not really)

2011-02-01T14:28:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles Times music blog just posted a cute little photo gallery comparing icons of 70s 'soft rock' to some of today's musicians.

The goal of this exercise is to point out the similarities between yesterday's soft rock heros and today's artists, and to illustrate how the genre is enjoying a resurgence. Which is all well and good, if it were only true.

But apparently the LA Times blogger has never listened to most of these bands, because Fleet Foxes sound nothing like America and Band of Horses sound nothing like Bread. And I'm pretty sure James Blunt is no longer legally categorized as 'music'. (Though maybe that was overturned??)

Anyway, in honor of 70s soft rock being kinda gay yet totally awesome and Fleet Foxes being just kinda gay, here's one of my favorite soft rock hits.

And if you prefer 21st Century (sped-up) Fleetwood Mac, The Belle Brigade got you covered.

The Fling @ The Satellite (Spaceland)

2011-01-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

The Fling have been entertaining Silverlake every Monday night this month, and you've still got one more chance to see them for free w/ Belle Brigade during their January residency.

Here's what they looked like (and what they sorta sounded like) on Monday, January 24th.

As you can see, Dustin really loves that red flannel shirt.

Charlie Louvin, 29 B.C. - 2011 A.D.

2011-01-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

It's no coincidence that Charlie Louvin died promptly after President Obama's State Of The Union Address.

But on the bright side, Charlie (he's the short one) lived a very full and creative life as exactly one half of The Louvin Brothers - arguably the best country duet team of all time.

There's far too much I want to say about this man and the beautiful music he made w/ his brother Ira, but I'm a talentless nobody who doesn't deserve to edit his Wikipedia page, so I'm going to just keep quiet and focus your attention to a few of my favorite Louvin Brothers songs.

Knoxville Girl

This is an old murder ballad that the Louvin Brothers introduced to the states, with slightly different lyrics than the original. As Charlie explains in the below interview (about the 5:18 mark), this song is about a man who kills a woman because he can't have her.

And I think Charlie says it best when he remarks, "There's still those idiots out there, who say, If I can't have you, no one can."

If I Could Only Win Your Love

This impossibly perfect tune enjoyed new life when Emmylou Harris turned it into a hit in 1975.

While You're Cheatin' On Me

Pretty simple stuff here. The guy knows his gal is unfaithful, but instead of getting all crazy about it, he just waits and prays w/ God on his side. And why is he so gracious? Well because he used to cheat on her. Duh.

Now watch this interview.

PS - Sam Outlaw is up to 100 'fans' on Facebook. Which begs the quesiton: Who the hell are all you people? My mom can only "like" me once, right?

PSS - When my fan count gets back down to 69, I'll do one of those special/intimate shows where I tell stories about the songs and talk about myself. No idea how I missed that milestone the first time around.

Spotlight On Myself - Humility

2011-01-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've talked about my work in that self-important way that only "artists" and aid workers can enjoy. So without further ado, let's dive right in to another Sam Outlaw hit.

The song "Humility" is about that violent slap in the face that wakes me up from the warm and cozy coma of Pride.

Pride takes many shapes in a young man's life, but symptoms typically include: judging others, unforgiveness, drunkenness, cynicism, cowboy-hat-no-longer-fits, and severe sinus pressure.

Getting put back on the right path might not feel good at first, but with humility comes the ever important lesson to not judge others and mind my own business. It's hard enough knowing myself and I sure as hell can't figure out other peoples' lives.

That said, you really need to break up with your boyfriend. I'm sure none of your other friends will be this honest, but he's just not that into you.

Saturday, 1/15 - Sam Outlaw @ Prospector Saloon

2011-01-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

Modern Family is a fantastic show. It makes America laugh, and teaches an important lesson about family:

As long as you have ~~plenty of money~~ a beautiful wife that enjoys regular exercise and never leaves the house wearing pajamas, everything else just sorta works itself out.

And the best part is that the show's moms are real live moms. The character of Claire is played by an actual 40 year old woman who's had three of her own children. Three! Yet she looks fantastic. How does she do it, ladies??

(Regular exercise and the careful application of makeup.)

Similarly, Gloria is played by a Columbian woman who is nearly 40 years old and has also birthed a child. She was born into brothels and yet she found a way to get to the promised land and keep it together.

How can this be, moms of America!???

And what does any of this have to do w/ my upcoming show at The Prospector?

Well that's for you to figure out. I can't hold your hand through all of life's big questions.

Allergic to twang

2011-01-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

Similar to the way I'm allergic to awful movies, the music supervisor for the new "film", Country Strong, has an aversion to the country vocal 'twang'.

And that's understandable. Today's country singers over-do the twang, and it rarely sounds authentic and natural, like the OGs: Hank, Lefty, George, etc.

So in honor of the real thing, here's some twang that won't give you hives.

Oh here we go

2011-01-07T14:04:00.000-08:00

I love it when musicians try to add credibility to their chosen careers by citing their "roots".

Blues singers grew up in the Delta - that's why they play blues. Rap stars grew up in the ghetto - that's why they rap. Indie rockers grew up in a wealthy white family and their parents split up when they were in 5th grade, etc.

And country stars grew up in the dirt.

The latest bozo to prove his country-ness by such means is some guy I've never heard of who stars in a movie I'll never see. And why was he perfect for his role as a young country star? Because he grew up on a farm in Minnesota.

Of course he did.

He goes on to say, "Our only radio station played only country music... I love old-school [artists like] Townes Van Zandt, a lot of the great singer/songwriters that have a lot of these great lyrics and these great stories and beautiful, sad stories."

So there you have it. Well done name-dropping Townes and knowing only one 'great' adjective.

Only, shouldn't this actor have had access to all kinds of music as a kid, since he grew up w/ the internet and television, just like me?

For instance, I believed country music sucked for most of my life because all I ever heard was New Country from the radio. But one day I was sitting around my crappy condo in Newport Beach - 22 years old or so - and I stumbled upon CMT's "Top 100 Country Singers" program. I got there just in time for the Top 10, which included George Jones, Porter Wagoner, Buck Owens, Emmylou Harris, etc.

It totally blew my mind. Thanks to that dumb channel, I went out and bought/downloaded albums by all the greatest country singers and discovered that real country music is the best music ever.

It's like, got all this great sounding stuff w/ great instruments and great things and great greatness, you know?

So now you know my story. What a weight off your shoulders.

Now one can only hope that some day we'll have a solid explanation for how Miley Cyrus became a stripper.

"Hey y'all!" - Dolly Parton

2010-12-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

Dolly Parton is the best.

And the knuckleheads over at The Grammys paused their new Nickleback CD just long enough to do something useful this year.

They're giving Dolly the lifetime somethinorother, and it's well deserved.

And, Also, In other news, I'm going to stop hanging out with my cat just long enough to spend time with my family and friends this holiday season. It's going to look ~~something like~~ exactly like this:

Lefty Frizzell

2010-12-22T13:24:00.000-08:00

Last night I got a text from an old friend who hails from Texas - the best state in the best country in the world.

And this got me thinking about native Texan, Lefty Frizzell - arguably the best country singer to come out of the best state in the best country.

So let's take a look at a Lefty and a few of the best things about the best country singer to come out of the best state in the best country:

Lefty was perhaps more influential than Hank Williams, though not as popular in his day. (Hank died young, which boosted his legend, and he had more radio hits, like Shania Twain.)

Lefty was called 'Sonny' as a child, but earned his new nickname when he won a schoolyard fight at age 14.

Lefty had tons of country hits, like "I Love You A Thousand Ways". And apparently one of those ways was a tad illegal - Lefty spent time in jail for statutory rape. (Though everyone agrees that the victim totally looked way older and was super hot and kinda slutty, etc.)

Lefty made a lot of money, and spent a lot of money. Which is what money is for.

Lefty was an alcoholic for a long time but died of a stroke at age 47, in 1975. Which is right about when Country Music started getting awful. Coincidence?

So there you go. Lefty was the perfect country singer and more. Lefty was a total badass. Just like Texas and America used to be.

Now watch these videos and realize that you actually love country music:

"Seriously. I'm the worst." - Gwyneth Paltrow

2010-12-21T12:22:00.000-08:00

More poop coming from Gwyneth Paltrow.

This time, she's pointing out that she prefers fans who spend lots and lots of money on her image, compared to fans who spend only some money.

And this extraordinary cash flow makes these patrons her "family".

Which is just like, totally true, you know?

For instance, I used to think I was an orphan. But now it's easy to identify who my real family is: Every month I tally up the revenue from my most dedicated fans to determine who's the most related to me. The top spending guy is of course, my dad, and the top spending girl gets to be my mom or my sister or something.

It's like that old saying, "Family spends tons of money on you so you can afford to buy another mansion and cover your bedroom walls with mirrors and stare at yourself all day until your business manager calls and invites you to a posh restaurant in Beverly Hills but you can't go because your internationally famous rockstar husband wants you to join him for a hot air balloon ride to the secret Starbucks located in President Obama's private movie theater."

Merry Christmas from Sam Outlaw!

2010-12-20T16:43:00.000-08:00

Here's the completed 'Country Christmas' session we filmed for Pilgrim Treehouse.

Hope you enjoy.

And don't forget - Jesus Christ is born! So go on out and have a Merry Christmas! (and none of the other 'wanna-be-Christmas' holidays)

PS - If you're not watching the HD versions of these videos, the compressed audio gets a little wonky, but we'll have crystal clear mp3s available soon. For the one of you who cares. (My mom.)

PSS - My mom doesn't care either. :-(((

Sell your soul. I bet you still couldn't write a hit.

2010-12-17T11:56:00.000-08:00

NPR's music blog asks, "Do you have to sell your soul to write a hit?".

The implication being that selling your soul (read: playing by pop radio rules) could be enough to give you a hit.

But when you look at the huge number of struggling writers in LA and Nashville and the very small number of hits, methinks soul-selling isn't enough.

You must have talent. And the heart of a champion. And like this guy I've never heard of points out, if you want to see the sun, you can't look directly into the light. (Focusing too much on the 'hit-ness' of your song will kill the inspiration that makes a good song great.)

And of course this topic is of interest to me because I only write hits.

I may not "get paid" for my hits because I make plenty of money modeling and don't want to donate any more income to the IRS. But that doesn't mitigate my skillz or their ability to pay the muthafuckin billz.

So which mountain will I climb next? Well, I'm going to write hits that are too hot for radio.

Class dismissed.

Photos from Pilgrim Treehouse 'Country Christmas' session

2010-12-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

Pilgrim Treehouse is a mythical land of sexually charged musical expressionism fueled by unbridled creativity and heavy heavy drug use.

Nah, just kidding.

Pilgrim Treehouse is a new online music brand that features live performances from independent musicians. Think Daytrotter, TheLiveBuzz, Pitchfork.tv, Anchor Tapes, etc.

Evan Trine is the budding renaissance man who founded PT to capture quality live musical performances filmed in original locations, and so far he's not screwing it up.

He's already featured a couple of my favorite local groups, and very soon he'll feature my most favorite local group.

Me.

The videos from Sam Outlaw's Country Christmas will be edited and up soon, but until then, feel free to take a look at these static images.

Most of these photographs are pretty good, and one of them features me with my shirt off.

Gee I wonder which picture all the ladies are going to look at first? (This one - the one where my shirt is off.)

Take it easy girls. No point in breaking your clicker finger over this.

Freedom Fighters

2010-12-07T10:33:00.000-08:00

These days, you have to look a little harder to find Americans fighting for freedom for Americans.

We've got plenty of troops dedicated to the citizens of other countries, but who's still dedicated to freedom in the USA?

Snoop Dogg.

And Katy Perry.

If God won't bless America, someone has to.

Here's Bob Dylan

2010-12-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

Wall Street Journal asks, should Bob Dylan stop performing?

Well, yes, he should stop performing. I saw him several years back and it totally totally sucked.

But on the bright side, Bob Dylan used to be totally totally awesome. And although I haven't listened to him much since I was 20 years old and knew everything, I'll always love his folk/country country/folk country/rock 1969 masterpiece, Nashville Skyline.

Here's a hot track from that album, complete with Dylan-esque stuff and Dylan-y things:

Chapter 1: You could have a boyfriend too

2010-12-01T12:50:00.000-08:00

Dear young ladies,

Unless you've been living in a cave all your life, or were raised by a loving/supportive father, you probably already know that men mostly date women for their looks.

That's why it's no surprise that once Taylor Swift got new bangs, she also got a new boyfriend.

And even though Jake Gyllenhall is a total pansy (remember that cowboy movie???), I think Ms. Swift is setting a strong example for young ladies everywhere.

Don't wait for your wedding to put on a dress. Don't wait till you're twenty nine to try the moving part of a treadmill.

Pursue beauty and make the most of the face God gave you.

And if your face is kinda weird looking like Taylor Swift, cover that thing up with some bangs and slap on a little makeup.

In Chapter 2: Dangerous Myths and Old Wives Tales, I'll explore the concept of "Inner Beauty".

Time for a new 'relationship status'

2010-11-30T15:48:00.000-08:00

Like good music, love is an endangered species.

But instead of sitting at home alone with your cat(s) tonight, why not come out to Prospector Saloon for some live entertainment and shot at true love? You never know when you might meet a sexy single who has just enough insecurity to not know they're way out of your league.

The party starts at 9:30 and you can RSVP right here.

Outlaw Country

2010-11-23T12:13:00.000-08:00

Since I'm sarcastic a lot and lie all the time, some folks don't believe me when I tell them that my mother's maiden name is Outlaw.

But it's true.

And did you also know that in the 1970s, there emerged a sub genre of Country Music called Outlaw Country?

Because that's also true.

And one last boring fact: I'm not that into Outlaw Country.

The main stars of the genre just don't do it for me. Waylon, Kris, Hank Jr., etc. All these dudes have some great tunes, but I don't connect w/ their style as much as other forms of Country.

But before you throw the baby out with the bathwater and go to prison for the rest of your life for killing an infant, you should check out some notable bright spots in Outlaw Country that are worth a good look/listen.

Here are some of my favorites for you to be read about while you listen to Kanye West's new album, which scored a perfect ten point zee-row on Pitchfork dot com.

(And good thing too. That guy really needs a taste of fame before he just throws in the towel and goes back to college to finish what he started.)

Mickey Newbury
Jerry Jeff Walker
The Flatlanders (w/ Jimmie Dale Gilmore)
Willie Nelson
Guy Clark

Freedom is out, Bangs are in!

2010-11-22T15:51:00.000-08:00

As the TSA explores new ways to ~~fight terrorism~~ discourage Americans from traveling more than a few miles to visit their loved ones over the holidays, Colorado is doing their part to invade the privacy of law abiding citizens.

Among many other insane requirements, Colorado would please like a copy of your COLLEGE DIPLOMA before letting you run your perfectly legal medical marijuana business.

No big deal. This is totally normal.

Which reminds me, I've got to get my tires rotated today. So I can't forget my latest urine samples and blood samples and love letters I wrote to my high school girlfriend.

(I know it's strict, but Goodyear doesn't make the rules, you know?)

BTW - when an award show sucks so bad that the big news is Taylor Swift's new bangs, what's the...

Hang on... Wait just a minute... She really does look good. I mean she was always pretty and all but wow!!! Look at those bangs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Daniel Craig kinda copied my vibe

2010-11-17T20:19:00.000-08:00

But that's forgivable, because this movie is going to be super super super awesome.

All my girlfriends are gettin' married

2010-11-17T10:52:00.000-08:00

Even though Lincoln freed the slaves way back in the 19th century, marriage is still legal in many states.

But let's look on the bright side: Some people are profiting off this cult/sub culture.

Like this fun girl I just met on the internet. Joanna Smith.

She's got a new "country" hit called Gettin' Married - a fun song about a fun girl who just wants to have fun. She can't relate to all her dumb girlfriends who are all gettin' hitched and havin' sex and poppin' out babies.

In fact, this song gets me feelin' so fun I just wanna drop every 'g' from my present participles, crack open a Coors Light and re-watch the season premier of Sarah Palin's Alaska.

Check out the video!

Gwyneth Paltrow learns to play guitar once a month

2010-11-16T10:35:00.000-08:00

Gwyneth "absolutely awful in every way" Paltrow had to learn how to play simple chords on an acoustic guitar to prepare for her new movie role in Country Strong.

And since GP is as country-strong in real life as any other beautiful celebrity resting softly in the lap of luxury, she claims that learning to play guitar was a "painful and emotional" experience.

That included "bleeding and cramping".

You know, I was only a doctor for a few years in college, but those symptoms kinda remind me of something else most women experience.

Either way, Gwyneth Paltrow just became my new favorite non-country country star. Move over Ryan Bingham!!!!!!

Iris DeMent

2010-11-13T12:11:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those days where I find myself looking on the bright side and feeling very good.

Part of the reason I'm in a good mood is because Seth is hosting another hootenanny. A joyous occasion where I get the pleasure of enjoying country and bluegrass music with good men and women - some players - some listeners. Everyone walks in one way and walks out a little different.

I'm also thankful for this beautiful country album from Iris DeMent. These songs are about family and love and forgiveness. And even more impressive to learn that it was her debut.

But before I ruin the experience for you by trying to explain why I think it all works so good, take a look/listen for yourself:

So there you go. No sarcasm or tom foolery today. Happy Saturday.

I watched some of the Country Music Awards

2010-11-11T10:29:00.000-08:00

And holy cow was that stuff bad. Like, even worse than the Grammys and the MTV award shows.

Basically looked like a Saturday Night Live skit meant to parody all the worst of the worst from 80s and 90s rock radio.

Except for maybe one performance... which I must humbly concede as "decent":

Gwyneth Paltrow sang her new movie song, Country Strong. And after all the crap I've slung at Gwyneth Paltrow for totally sucking in every way, I thought she sang her tune pretty good.

For a girl. And for a movie actor. And for someone who totally sucks in every way.

So there's my rant. If you've made it this far, you need to look for a new job where you have less free time.

Besides, everyone knows that country songs should be about drinking and life lessons and be accompanied by cute little kittens dressed up in cowboy gear:

Who cares about Laurel Canyon?

2010-11-10T11:39:00.000-08:00

I do. And so do a whole bunch of scholarly nerds in England.

Normally I would recommend reading this book on the Laurel Canyon "scene" in the 60s and 70s, but now BBC has created an effective teaching tool for all you visual learners:

A wonderfully produced video series!

Enjoy, and make sure you pee right after.

PS - "Ten million girls and two thousand bumps down the line, you don't know who you are anymore."

Spotlight On Myself - Leavin' On Her Mind

2010-11-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

Who really wants to hear about my stupid country songs when we've got all this exciting political stuff to talk about???

If my calculations are correct, we Americans have very wisely put Republicans back in power.

And since there are only two political parties in the universe, I've got a sneaking suspicion that in due time, we'll very wisely give power back to the Democrats. And then right back to those tricky Republicans. And then, surprise! Here come the Dems!!

And this mind numbing drama will be played out forever and ever and ever like a slow and creaky seesaw on the darkening stage of American ~~leadership~~ lethargy.

But what else could you want? Two options is plenty to choose from. There are no other political ideologies that could effectively govern this country. So just drop it, ok?

And listen to this country song I wrote.

Spotlight On Myself - Lonely Man

2010-11-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

Townes Van Zandt deftly pointed out that, "Aloneness is a state of being, whereas loneliness is a state of feeling."

And then he probably sniffed a whole tube of glue and wandered around with his dog for 6 hours.

Jon Stewart to run from President

2010-11-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

I hope you vote tomorrow, as long as you agree with me about all the issues. I most closely identify with the Libertarian party, but I'm sure that doesn't quite cover it. For instance, I don't think women should be allowed to vote and I think white people should get a separate line at airport security.

And while politicians are doing everything in their power to get your support, Jon Stewart is doing his part to prepare Americans for the 2010 Midterm Elections by throwing a big, gaudy, self-aware event in Washington.

Now that Obama has stopped believing in himself, I guess somebody needs to carry the lofty rhetoric flag.

And who better for the task? Just like our President, Stewart is an impressive celebrity who gets paid for having perfect hindsight and a charming sense of humor.

Doug Sahm

2010-11-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

Doug Sahm was a music prodigy and explored a wonderful variety of country music styles in the 60s and 70s.

His band The Sir Douglas Quintet basically owned the Tex-Mex genre.

So, check out this video of Doug doing his thing.

I'm tempted to add my own thoughts to this performance, but methinks "bobo420TX" says it most eloquently in the YouTube comments:

"Doug Sahm and dancing Austin hippie chicks, it don't get any better than that !!"

Thank you, bobo. Your scintillating words pierce my country soul.

Spotlight On Myself - Hard To Get Rid Of

2010-10-28T11:16:00.000-07:00

The only thing talented artist types like me enjoy more than making art is talking about making art.

There is nothing is more important in the whole world than our art and therefore special/creative-y people like me are basically God's gift to normal/boring people.

And today I'd like to single out my new country song, Hard To Get Rid Of, and talk about it.

This song offers a different take on the old "hard to get" scenario: Instead of someone playing coy and fanning the flame of lust, this strange subject waited till it was too late to turn on the charm.

I wrote this tune after a painful breakup with a really sweet boy I was "seeing" off and on for a couple years. He basically broke my heart. And now apparently he's "married". Whatever.

Ryan's gender has been changed to protect gay people.

Feel free to play the song using the player below, and then watch a video of the guy I ripped off to write the melodies.

And then.. I don't know. Do whatever you want. You're not a little kid anymore and it's time you started figuring some things out on your own.

Spotlight On Myself - It Might Kill Me

2010-10-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a song writer writes a song so good, he names his own blog after it.

Now let's dive deeper.

It Might Kill Me is my reaction to the old saying "if it doesn't kill you it makes you stronger".

Every idiot has said it at some point, and they've probably said it in some bankrupt attempt at cheering someone up.

But when I hear that something might kill me, I don't feel at ease. I actually ask some followup questions, like, "what's the likelihood that it'll kill me?", and "is there a safe way of doing this that won't kill me?".

So if you find yourself in a situation that presents a fair chance of untimely death, do what I did:

Write a hit effing song about it and let the money fall from heaven.

(But don't let the fame go to your head. No one likes a self righteous power crazed celebrity.)

Wedding Bells Are Bingham-ing

2010-10-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

Ryan Bingham is a total dream boat, but now he's also ~~legally chained~~ wed to a ~~beautiful~~ lucky young lady.

Here are the wedding pics to prove it.

And while these pictures tell us a lot about Ryan's big day, a few important questions remain unanswered:

1. Did Ryan and his new bride drive the tour van from the wedding to the honeymoon? (Did they take turns driving?)

2. Did Ryan ask for a "country" themed wedding, or a "not-country" themed wedding?

3. Did any unsuspecting guests gaze too deeply into Ryan's eyes, fall in love with him, and then object to the union in the name of truer true love??

And out of personal interest - I'd like to know who leaked the big secret about marriage to this knucklehead.

The one rule of married club is that you don't talk about married club. We don't want every dork in town finding out what a lifetime of romantic bliss feels like.

Spotlight On Myself - Country Love Song

2010-10-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

I just posted some new home recordings (music player to the right -->) but now I'd like to single out some of these hits and talk about them. As a way of delving deeper into my art and thus drawing more attention to myself.

This is a segment I call "Spotlight On Myself".

Today's song is Country Love Song.

I like this song because it's really more of a folk song than a country song and it's about writing a country song.

It'd be like if a painter drew a drawing about painting.

...

Now let that concept slowly sink in and blow your mind while you read this.

The best news story about country music since this.

<a href="http://samoutlaw.bandcamp.com/track/country-love-song">Country Love Song by Sam Outlaw</a>

New Country Hits

2010-10-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

The band circled up in a small/cramped bedroom last month and tracked these songs.

(Music player below and to the right ----->)

Some of these songs are brand new and some are merely different/sexier versions of the Sam Outlaw classics you've been overplaying for months.

And since you're almost definitely curious about the details of these recordings:

Each song was recorded live. No overdubs or any of that fancy stuff. So if you're looking for fancy you can look elsewhere.

Luke Barber engineered and mixed. The players include Dan Richardson on dobro/resonator and mandolin, Kyle Zantos on banjo, Bret Hendry on pedal steel, Seth Richardson on double bass, Crystal Gray on harmony vocals, and of course Me on ego.

So here you go.

I hope you're more sober when you enjoy these hits then we were when we recorded them.

Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!

<a href="http://samoutlaw.bandcamp.com/album/more-home-recordings">More home recordings by Sam Outlaw</a>

There is no condemnation in Christ

2010-10-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

Just in his churches. Which is why plenty of Christ's disciples choose to sleep in on Sundays. (And because I'm lazy.)

Similarly, the corporate music industry does not accurately reflect the creators they claim to represent. More and more talented musicians would rather go it alone. They're happy to risk the loss of profits for the satisfaction of authenticity.

So, you see, there is a connection between today's music industry and today's soul industry. Do you see how I connected the two?

And also therefore,

(That's why) it's no surprise to see superior writers like Sufjan Stevens making good music (and good money) releasing music on his own label.

Sufjan's new album came out today and someone no one cares about interviewed him about his music. And about God.

And speaking of God, Pitchfork dot com reviewed the album. Which is a huge relief.

How else would we know if it's a good album or a pile of crap?

<a href="http://sufjanstevens.bandcamp.com/track/too-much">Too Much by Sufjan Stevens</a>

Sunday morning coming down

2010-10-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

The LA Times music blog is a clever little rascal.

Since today is 10/10/10 they've put together a list of the best songs about drinking.

And how many songs are in their list???

You'll have to click here to find out!

The Fall

2010-10-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here's one guy's take on the downfall of country music. (Hint - he blames the '80s.)

And since he wrote this article for his blog/website, he keeps it short and sweet. This way the general public can more easily digest his work.

Why bother with fancy "sources" and "facts"?

Everybody knows that blogs are to blame for the downfall of good writing.

Ryan Bingham still not making country music, still tours in a van

2010-10-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

Mainstream Country Radio continues to shun non-country Ryan Bingham because his music is slightly left of 'totally sucky'. No surprise there.

But what's news to me is that this guy still makes his band tour in a van.

I mean he's not playing arenas, bu c'mon. The guy won an Oscar. He's doing alright.

And even if he's not, couldn't he sell the trophy and buy a fleet of buses?

His players gotta be getting suspicious at this point.

Poor guys are still taking turns driving and crashing at their ex-girlfriend's mom's new step-dad's house. While perfect-little-pouty-lips Ryan stays at a non-country five diamond so he can get enough sleep for his next modeling shoot.

Guess it just goes to show ya. Not every bandleader is as classy as me.

Just the other night we played a show and I let each of my bandmates have a drink ticket. Even though I write all the songs and have all the looks and bring all the ladies and all that.

My reward will be in heaven.

Ne-Yo / GaGa to 'go country'

2010-10-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

Which could be super awesome.

And makes me wonder - will any of today's Country Stars one day 'go country'?

Prolly not. There's no money in it.

But don't worry. New Sam Outlaw songs are just around the corner.

And just like sex in ~~Los Angeles~~ Echo Park, these tracks will be somewhat dirty, depressing and available completely free of charge.

Waka waka.

Ben White

2010-10-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

I'm playing a show with Ben White at some place called The Farm on Saturday.

But until then, you can find him right here.

Way over yonder in the minor key.

Ben White - Leaves from Pilgrim Treehouse on Vimeo.

It's gonna hurt the first time. And the next couple times as well.

2010-10-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

But let's go back in time to when people cared about banjo.

American people like The Byrds. British "people" like The Kinks.

And sweet blind angels like Doc Watson.

Kyle Zantos, 2009 - 2010

2010-10-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night's show at The Prospector is a special one. It will be country band's last show w/ Kyle Zantos - our very talented young banjoist.

Kyle is leaving the anti-country and waveless shores of Long Beach to try his luck in Seattle. Where people care even less about country music.

But before we get all focused on Kyle's wealth of musical ability and bankrupt decision making skills, let's bring it back to me.

When I was a kid, I loved the Andy Griffith Show. I liked it because my dad liked it, and because whistling is awesome.

But also because the show featured regular performances from one of my favorite bluegrass bands, The Dillards. (Doug Dillard is the banjo player in the group who later went on to form Dillard & Clark w/ Gene Clark.)

Here's a clip of The Dillards (called The Darlings on the show) performing a sweet sweet tune with Andy. And despite the fact that you can hear a banjo during the entire song, it still sounds pretty good.

Good luck, Kyle. I'm actually going to miss you.

The Mother's Best recordings

2010-10-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

Hank Williams was a hick and a drunk. He died at the very young age of 29 and still probably lived longer than he should have.

But before he died he took the time to record some of the greatest country songs of all time.

And in the same way a good woman knows to keep herself looking good, Hank had the good sense to keep his balance sheet in the black whenever possible. So he spent many an early morning performing radio shows for "Mother's Best" flower and farm feed .

These sponsored radio shows helped pay the bills, pay the bartender and pay for all the ridiculous crap him and his hick wife wasted their money on. These shows also captured the 'real' Hank Williams.

Industrious. Hung over. Funny. Sad. The perfect country singer.

And now these recordings are available to the public. (That's us.)

After spending some time with the promotional disc I can certainly recommend it to Hank fans. I would not however recommend it to casual fans, professional golfers or homosexuals born in the 70s. Just take my word for it.

PS - Happy Birthday, Mom.

Sam's outlaw women

2010-09-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

Hi.

I don't know what the hell this is but The Fling emailed it to me. (Flung it to me?) ((Flang it at me??))

Dear girl in this video,

I like to get high and listen to The Band, too.

Yours truly,

Sam

It might kill me

2010-09-29T15:48:00.000-07:00

Some days are just so filled with sunshine that it feels like I might burst.

But I must have used up all of those days in the eighties.

On days like today, I turn to country music. And recreational drugs.

And if it gets worse I'll turn to Jesus. But that's suuuuper last resort kinda stuff.

"I'm soaking wet." ... "Me too, that's so weird!"

2010-09-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Bobby Bare is one of the greatest country singers of all time.

His son, Bobby Bare Jr. is the son of one of the greatest country singers of all time.

And while I've never heard his tunes, I don't hate this interview. It gets off to a super wet/rocky start, and then just gets awkward-er.

A song to shelter you from the cold

2010-09-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

It's been a bit of a "drought" here at It Might Kill Me dot com, but I'm going to start posting stuff again starting now.

And speaking of droughts - it's one hundred eight degrees here in Los Angeles. Too hot for most lizards, cactuses and clocks, yet we must all carry on.

We must all carry on as soon as we figure out who's to blame for this heat. I want heads to roll.

Do we blame Al Gore, since he invented Global Warming?

Or perhaps we blame illegal immigrants since they're to blame for everything??

Or maybe we should just stop pointing our racist/ignorant little fingers everywhere and snuggle up next to an exceptionally hot young babe and sing country hits???

Like the super awesome Hoyt Axton did way back when with the super babe-esque Linda Ronstadt:

(Dang. Linda Ronstadt. Am I right, guys?)

Fashion Party w/ The Texas Troubadours

2010-09-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

Classic country music is one of those rare genres where one's musical skill is a factor in their musical success.

Fashion is important, but talent is even more important.

So while these guys have great hats, they also know how to rip-shred on their instruments like I imagine Jesus performs country music in heaven.

Perfectly.

Thanks to Bret "Tall Boy" Hendry for finding this clip. (He plays pedal steel pretty good I guess, but it would it kill him to find a good hat???)

Man arrested for having good music taste, Sam Outlaw still not getting played on TV, and other news

2010-09-21T10:58:00.000-07:00

A "man" was arrested in some city no one cares about for refusing to pay his cab fare. And why did he refuse to pay his cab fare?

Because the driver refused to play country music.

Seems logical. One good refusal deserves another.

And in other super important country music news: I've been demo-ing new tunes. That's right. New country hits for you and your mom to sing along to.

But don't expect any sunny songs about the power of love and inner strength. Things have been kinda up and down and vomit-y lately. Thankfully I've got great people in my life to cheer me up.

Just yesterday my cat gave me a copy of "Chicken Soup for the Lesbian Soul". She's got a great sense of humor!

Lastly, it appears Carrie Underwood has become quite the role model for health-conscious Americans. But she's no hero. She just loves taking care of herself.

In an interview w/ USA Today, she very scientifically pointed out, "We only have one body apiece and it's going to expire sometime, and I'm going to make sure it's a long, long time from now."

Then Carrie quietly stole away from the interview, and finding herself alone, pulled out a phillips screwdriver, opened up the front panel of her metal 'body', and made a few quick turns to adjust her skin pigmentation.

"Yes...," she whispered. "I'm going to live forever." Beep beep ba beep.

Tammy Whynot

2010-09-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

I love her. And she's really on my mind today.

And in a strange way, I even love this. (Call me, ladies.)

Kanye goes country

2010-09-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

Seriously this time.

No big deal, but I called this a few months ago.

My next surprising prediction: An American President will get all super creative and genius-y and increase taxes.

Breakfast is the most important whiskey of the day

2010-09-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

In case you missed it, here's an interesting article on the relationship between drinking and living.

These new discoveries might really change your mind about booze.

If you're like me, you've always assumed that heavy drinking is super good for you. But it turns out that moderate drinking might be even better for you. And non-drinking is just flat out dangerous.

I guess it makes sense when you think about it. Unlike the "art" in coffee shops. How is it always so bad?

Some cute stuff and some other stuff

2010-09-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

If you're fortunate enough to live in Long Beach, there's a chance you attended Buskerfest on Saturday.

Buskerfest is an outdoor event involving a whole bunch of bands on a whole bunch of small stages trying to play their guts out for small wooden nickels. They can't plug into a power source, so must find creative ways to amplify their sound.

And if audiences throw enough wooden nickels at them, they get to record music in a real recording studio.

Korey Dane won the event, and deservingly so.

But myself and country band were a bit disappointed to find that the contest wasn't based on 'looks' - in fact 'looks' weren't even factored into the final tally. Smells like bull shit to me, but whatever.

We graciously accepted our award for 'best performance relative to expectations' and had a blast watching some ~~homeless guy~~ Ace Ventura impersonator fill in for Matt Vasquez of Delta Spirit. And then there was this dance party.

Lastly, this happened last night in some place called Fresno. Congrats to The Fling for not taking 'headliner no-show and you've got a flat tire' for an answer.

(Thanks Jenny)

KPCC knows the true meaning of America

2010-08-31T10:17:00.000-07:00

Local radio station, 89.3 (KPCC) has chosen the theme 'Country Music' to take us into Labor Day Weekend.

They're running stories, interviews and performances from some of country's greatest greats.

And I couldn't think of a better guy to talk to than Jimmie Dale Gilmore.

He's an iconic Texas country singer and founding member of The Flatlanders. He also has a brief/memorable moment in the Coen Brother's hit film, The Big Labowski.

If you aren't familiar with a band called The Flatlanders, it's because they're more a legend than a band.

Any crap, please enjoy this interview and live performance.

(Thanks to Katie Raines for hearing the phrase 'country music' spoken on the radio and instantly notifying me.)

Ryan Bingham and I finally agree

2010-08-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

Ryan Bingham doesn't call his music Country Music.

Although he does everything in his power to look like a country singer, he's not even fooling himself.

Very brave step, Ryan. It's a bit of a fashion show out there and nobody's safe.

(If only more musicians could see through their own costumes.)

For instance, when I was a kid I used to dress up as Batman. But at the end of the day, I knew I wasn't actually Batman.

I knew I was just a kid with special powers. And the only question that remains is whether I'll use my strength for evil or for good.

Or some sexy combination of the two. (??)

Tune in again next week. Same late night dip in the jacuzzi. Same whatever.

The Fling album release @ Spaceland, this Friday

2010-08-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

This show is going to be really special and I feel genuinely lucky to be part of it.

Country band kicks off the night at 9 pm (sharp), so you'll want to choose your outfit tonight lest you're running late tomorrow.

And bring a friend. You want to appear single but not too single, ya know?

xoxoxoxxx

Kitty Wells

2010-08-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

This little baby doll had a string of hits in the 50s and 60s.

She also had the wisdom to point out that men are scoundrels and the good sense to re-name herself "Kitty".

But it's not her brains I'd like to focus on here. It's her body... (wait for it) ... of work.

Her body of work.

Here are a couple good'ns that make me reconsider my sinful ways. And then blame my sinful ways on women.

Skaggs puts faith in God, not exercise

2010-08-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

Ricky Skaggs is one of the all-time greatest bluegrass players.

He completely rules at every bluegrass instrument and sings like a bird.

And he was just a kid when he started playing w/ Flatt & Scruggs on their legendary TV show and he was only a teenager when he joined Ralph Stanley's band.

Which is totally totally unreal.

So with such unparalleled accomplishments behind him, I guess it makes sense that his new project goes where no Country Stars have gone before: The Christian Album.

And as Ricky points out in this Wall Street Journal interview, this is quite the risky move.

How will country music lovers in Middle America respond to country songs about faith and God and Jesus and stuff?

Is America ready for this kind of musical REVOLUTION!?!!

(!!!!!!)

I really don't know. But I'm pretty sure that if he doesn't stop eating soon he's going to meet God in person. (If God can spare enough angels to hoist him up to heaven.)

..............

In other news, I really had a blast playing w/ Marika Dahlin and Korey Dane at Clancy's last night.

Though the venue did everything in its power to stop us from putting on a show:

1. An improperly installed sound system

2. No sound guy

3. A beautiful, young staff member whose chief concern was keeping our music gear away from the ladies' room, which was basically located on "stage"

But at some point I stopped whining like a little baby and everything just worked out. Everyone played well and drank well and had a good time.

So what have we learned here?

When life gives you lemons, you bend life over your knee and spank it with some country hits. And then you explain to life that you only do this because you love it. Its totally ok to hit people you love but it's not ok to hit other people.

Go and sin no more.

THE END.

Cool as folk

2010-08-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

(Get it???)

I'm fortunate to be super talented and popular, so I get to play shows with other exceptionally talented artists.

And by artists, I mean musicians.

Take Marika Dahlin and Korey Dane, for instance. They'll both be joining me tonight in Long Beach.

Show starts tonight at 9 pm, so get there at 9 pm, when it starts.

And please don't dress all lame like last time. It might be nothing to you, but I actually care about 'looks'.

New Sam Outlaw merch

2010-08-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

Fans of Soof-yawn Stevens got a nice little treat today.

So far it kinda reminds me of these guys.

Fans of Sam Outlaw also have reason to rejoice. May your three voices combine in the heavens to sound like the roaring thunder of a DOZEN PEOPLE!!!!!!

Lastly, fans of awesomeness finally have a hero. I took this picture last night.

And now I know what the Sam Outlaw t-shirt is gonna look like.

See you Monday.

New Demo #5

2010-08-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

This little folk song goes out to all my dear friends who just returned from tour - living life on the road of joys and sorrows and merch sales.

Glad to have you home, albeit briefly, before you leave on yet another tour.

And then another. And another. And still more. On and on and on and on and on.

Forever.

Good luck out there, knuckle heads.

<a href="http://samoutlaw.bandcamp.com/track/everyones-lookin-for-home">Everyone's Lookin' For Home by Sam Outlaw</a>

Get Flung

2010-08-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that my favorite local band is The Fling.

They're not country, but they manage to write consistently catchy rock songs that remind me of my younger years - holed up in my bedroom, trying to learn every Beatles song I could find tabs for on Harmony Central.

And now The Fling have their first LP ready for the world (it plays more like a 'greatest hits' collection than a debut album), a whole slop of new tour dates, and local fame.

So with all this lined up, it's a wonder why The Fling still feel the need to ride my dangerously long coattails into the glamorous spotlight of the mainstream...

Here they are again, name-dropping 'Sam Outlaw' during some blogger's interrogation about their "influences" and "who plays what in the band".

But it's cool. No harm done.

I guess I should just be happy for The Fling and stop worrying about who's using me to climb the WORLD FAMOUS (Walgreens-sponsored) ladder up to KROQ.

Afterall, it wasn't too long ago that I was just a spud, opening for bands at Spaceland. Cutting my teeth on the small and shitty stage of humility.

The Fling - "When The Madhouses Appear" Album Teaser from The Fling on Vimeo.

The Last Picture Show

2010-08-09T16:55:00.000-07:00

If you like Hank Williams, Small Towns and Terribly Insecure Virgins, then you'll love The Last Picture Show.

It's a beautiful black and white film about the dust-covered life (and death) of a very messed-with Texas.

Kinda makes me wonder what my life would be like if I wouldn't have left my hometown in South Dakota to be "discovered" in Hollywood.

But then again, who cares? Now that I'm a big star I can put all of my pesky friends and family behind me and just stare at myself in the mirror all day.

I'll be young forever.

A real outlaw

2010-08-04T12:51:00.000-07:00

Merle Haggard is a bonafide mama-proof outlaw, but he is also one of the greatest country singers of all time.

And while I try to keep up with Country Music, I don't read Vanity Fair magazine (or kiss boys and stuff), so I almost missed this Vanity Fair interview with Merle.

The interview is pretty good because it talks about prison, taking drugs, "20 year old groupie ass" and other cool stuff. So go read it.

Unless you're more of a GQ guy??

You dirty dog.

"Long Beach has such a great music scene..." - Long Beach

2010-07-29T11:33:00.000-07:00

Long Beach's music community continues to outspokenly compliment itself.

And I have to agree.

After all, "I think we're great." - Us

R.I.P., Country Cat

2010-07-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

In a strange twist of fate, Country Cat has passed away on the anniversary of my birth.

Methinks this was the deadly blow that made Country Cat update his/her Facebook status with "deceased". Something called "MTV", reports:

Esoteric pop star Ke$ha, discussing her inspirations and the possible future she may have in country music. She told Papermagazine that though she adores old Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash albums and think she will dabble in country music eventually, she is enjoying her current place in the pop music landscape.

For my money, Ks$ha is a solid investment. She's super unattractive and alcoholic-y, but she ~~writes~~ performs songs about boyz being all about her. And it's just that opportunity for public deception that got me started writing hits.

Coming soon to the cover of Rolling Stone:

$am Outlaw - the man inside me.

And don't cry about Country Cat...

Cat's have nine lives!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Country Cat just pooped, whatever that means

2010-07-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

Someone must have noticed that today's Country Music is getting further and further from its traditional roots. Now more than ever, we need a country singer who can restore the genre to it's authentic best.

So which cocaine-skinny millionaire actress will swoop in and save the day???

Gwyneth Paltrow.

Gwyneth Paltrow.

Gwyneth Paltrow will play a country singer in the upcoming film, Country Strong.

She sings and everything.

I think this makes me sad but I'm not going to let you see me cry. Because I'm Country Strong.

And because I'm also Country Smart, here's something that makes me happy.