Lucinda Williams — a musician of depth and courage
Here’s something a little different, but as you will see, there is a thread of synergy with my recent posts.
I saw Lucinda Williams, one of the pioneers of Americana music, for at least the ninth time last night. The number could be higher. I may have forgotten a show or two.
This was the second time I’ve seen her since she suffered a stroke, and from my vantage point its impact was clearly evident. She limped on and off stage very slowly, and she stood nearly still when fronting her excellent band — she can barely move. And her voice sounds like you might expect from a 71-year-old woman contending with that kind of health challenge. But she’s powering through with sheer force of will and continues to deliver strong live performances for a grateful fan base that knows full well the clock is ticking. The fans last night cherished every moment, as did Lu. Before she departed she lingered on-stage to exchange pleasantries and clasp hands with well-wishers in the front row.
If you don’t happen to be familiar with Lucinda, she’s the daughter of acclaimed poet Miller Williams, who read his “Of History and Hope” at the second inauguration of Bill Clinton. Lucinda has embraced that heritage by bringing a poetic depth to her songwriting, with her father periodically editing her lyrics until his death in 2015.
The closing song last night—the final encore number—was Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” and its spot on the set list was no accident. Lucinda is a passionate Never-Trumper who delivered her message loud and clear in an anthem that brought the house down. I was moved to tears, and not for the first time.
Tears also welled-up during an obscure tune from her latest album — one that may already be my favorite among many unique and truly outstanding songs over a 45-year career. It’s called “Where the Song Will Find Me,” and it’s Lucinda’s way of expressing wonder at the magic that can happen during the creative process — that special time when one wonders just how that particular thing ended up in their head.
Here’s the song. It’s a long one that builds into an absolutely majestic piece of rock-and-roll, and it guts me every time I hear it.