Steve Earle - John Walker's Blues

[cantecleer]

I remember when this song came out. I was living abroad, but made trips home to visit family during the holidays. There were all kinds of sensationalist reports about this, but abroad the song got fair press coverage.

The thing that struck me most is a clip that I saw of Earle talking about the song. If I remember correctly, he cited the importance of the song as a way for this American would-be jihadist to have his story told, given the media bia surrounding the case. Historical stuff.

[darlincommitme]

@cantecleer

Steve has also said that when he saw the pictures of Walker, his first thought was "My God, that kid must have parents who are worried sick." JWL and Steve's son Justin are about the same age, and Justin was strung out on dope at the time, and tall and thin like JWL. I think Steve empathized with the family and just wanted to humanize JWL.

[Adnamira]

Sound is pretty good in this for a live recording.

[TheLeftyGrove]

Steve has every critical aspect of a great artist. Talent, intelligence, and courage.

Beautiful song about perspective and justice.

[GalwayGirl44]

wow. steve rarely does this one anymore... very cool!