West Texas Blues

Once upon a time, there was a rowdy bar in Juarez called the Lobby. As you might imagine, the place was completely populated by Texans. One of them was swinging from the rafters while he played his Stratocaster. Let me introduce you to a real live West Texas Legend.

My first encounter with Long John Hunter was at the Ector county fair. My parents let me play hookie on the opening day of the fair so I could help set up the booth. It was early and I was the only kid around. I was ten years old and he was playing that evening. I walked up to a radio station booth. He was sitting in the shade under the awning with the strat in his lap and a smile on his face. He motioned for me to come over. “Boy, do you know your chords?” I nodded and said, “Some.” He smiled, put my hand on the neck and said, “Show me G.” I held the chord while he strummed and riffed down in the high frets.

Echo saw him first on my college campus. I remember the looks of amazement and joy on her face. Watching somebody discover live blues is a truly fantastic experience. Long John was fantastic that night. I took some wonderful photos. I’ll publish them once I have digitized them.

Buy Long John Hunter Music.

Choice Lyrics from Ride with Me.

I think I’ll ride on into Dallas
Just get my carburetor clean
Oh yes, I’ll ride on into Dallas
Just to get my carburetor clean
‘Cause you Fort Worth women
You dirty up my gasoline

I think I’ll ride on down to Houston
To Galveston the sea shore town
Oh yes, I’ll ride on down to Houston
To Galveston the sea shore town
Or maybe stay out here in West Texas
Where the BIG LEG women can be found