Strange Things Afoot at Texas Concerts

I'm finally getting around to sharing with you that Daniel and I accomplished one of our goals for the year. And, to think, we did it in April! That's pretty early in the year for a yearly goal! 

We spent a Sunday afternoon in April at a concert. I know, you're thinking, "big deal." But, that was a big deal to us. Here in Texas, and especially in Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World, we take our music seriously. And, our geographic locations over the past eight years have not allowed us to keep up with our live music desires. Yes, in San Diego, we did get to see Pat Green as well as Jack Johnson. But, while in Hawaii and Charleston, the opportunity for live music was slim. Now, we've been back in Texas since the fall, and have missed oh, so many live music opportunities. When my dad brought the Reckless Kelly First Annual Celebrity Softball Jam to my attention, I knew we couldn't pass this one up. It was inexpensive, during the day (1-8 p.m.), outdoors and not at a smoky bar, and at the baseball stadium within walking distance from our house! And, it was a blast! 

The softball game was slightly entertaining. It was mostly Texas country musicians like Ray Benson (Asleep at the Wheel) and a few Major League players like Greg Swindell (of UT fame). Kyle Petty took a turn at coaching first base in front of us, but he also took a turn with his guitar as a singer/songwriter during the Jam. Who knew Kyle Petty was an aspiring musician? Not me.

While I enjoyed the music, I couldn't help but snap some pics to share with you fine folks the beauty of live music. It always brings out a cacophony of people who are unique and entertaining in their own way.

This women seated near us was wearing a "Beer, Bait & Ammo" do-rag or kerchief on her head. Don't miss the lovely tattoo behind her ear that is highlighted by how she has her hair pulled back with that classy do-rag.

This gentleman apparantly wanted to show his appreciation to the Beatles or Coldplay. I'm not sure which group's get-up he was trying to emulate, but I don't think he pulled it off. Plus, it was stinkin' hot out there. I'm sure he stunk that jacket up to high heaven!

This woman (with the large tattoo on her arm) doesn't look amusing, she just annoyed me, and I want to warn you about her. She is Paula Nelson, Willie Nelson's daughter. If you know me, you know that I absolutely adore Willie. I dressed up as him for Halloween one year as a child and even attended one of his concerts as the celebration for my bachelorette party. So, please know that I mean no disrespect for Willie. But, Paula performed a few of her own songs at the Jam, and she was horrendous. Oh, I was embarassed for Willie. I don't know if he has sanctioned her using his name, but he shouldn't. She's just awful so watch out for her!

This gentleman wore this rice field hat all day. I'm not sure if he was just trying to shield himself from the sun and skin cancer or if he thought the ladies would be attracted to his hat. Either way, we got a good laugh out of him every time he walked by us.

This group of men all wore the same odd black hats adorned with medals and pins. I'm not sure what their gig was, but it was odd.

All oddities aside, the music was great. Reckless Kelly performed here with one of my favorites, Charlie Robinson.

 

The show ended with almost all of the performers playing together. I think you can see Reckless Kelly, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Kevin Fowler, Ray Benson, Randy Rogers, Roger Craeger, Micky and the Motorcars, Jason Boland, Dale Watson and Cory Morrow all on the stage in this final jam.

Hopefully this won't be the only live show we see this year. If anyone wants to offer up free babysitting, I'm sure we could find a show to see on any given night around here. Any takers?