March 5, 2012

• Second Time Around

  The first time my Mom and I went to see Willie was about 10 years ago. It was a fraternity concert that included Jerry Jeff Walker. I got floor tickets and we got there early. We settled ourselves front and center on the guard rail. It got really crowded and people where pushing us from all sides trying to get up front. I’m a little claustrophobic when it comes to being surrounded by large crowds and large drunken crowds are the worst. My Mom actually pointed me out to security at one point, telling them to “watch her.” I’m pretty sure that was after I threatened to punch a guy behind me. It was a total party atmosphere. Anyhow, Mom had to take a break from the insanity a little bit before Willie came on. She ended up going out the wrong door and found herself locked out of the concert. In the meantime, I held tight to the guard rail and cried big salty tears when Willie came out. I cried partly because his look and sound reminded me of my Pawpaw and because here was this man whose music I had listened to my entire life right before me. I could see every name carved into Trigger. I made contact with his brown beady eyes several times. I told him how beautiful his playing was and he smiled so sweetly and nodded. I was on cloud nine, well I was until I got to the truck. I found Mom had been locked out and listening to Willie cds and crying for a whole different reason. I felt so guilty. I didn’t think we’d ever have a chance to see Willie up close and personal again.

  A week ago, I randomly saw a tv commercial for an upcoming concert in Lubbock. I was happy to see that the concert was in the auditorium which has assigned seating. I decided to check and see if there were any decent seats left. To my surprise, I was able to get third row center seats at a very reasonable price. And last night, my Mom and I both enjoyed Willie’s music. I cried again. Again, because it is so surreal to see him and hear him play in person. His voice and music are so familiar to me. Willie’s music is definitely featured on the soundtrack of my life. The sound of his voice and his guitar touch me on such a deep level. I have so many memories that are conjured up by his music. I think what really got me though, was when he played “Funny How Time Slips Away.” I was struck by how old Willie has gotten in the 10 years since I saw him last. I began reflect upon how much life has happened in the past 10 years, how much older I’ve become, how in 10 years he won’t be touring. Time, it surely does slip away. He played many of my favorite songs and I sat and let the music soak in. I marveled at what an amazing guitarist he is. I said it a million times last night, he is a true artist. I would pay good money just to sit and listen to him play the guitar. Last night’s concert was much more low-key and intimate. Willie wasn’t partying like before, he was simply performing. We didn’t drink beer like some other concert goers. At the end of the concert, he played several gospel songs including Amazing Grace. I told Mom I was sure glad I wasn’t holding a beer. He worked hard and the 90+ minutes of music was over all too soon. Even though I made no connection with Willie last night, this concert was so much better. I didn’t have to fight for my spot, he played my favorite songs, and most importantly I enjoyed it with my Mom right by my side. It was peaceful and good. It’s funny how things have a way of working out in the end.

  Here’s a link to a recent concert rendition of Funny How Time Slips Away…it’s just so much more beautiful in person.

  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhDLiJQ_dGg

  • 12:27 pm
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