Legendary Americana singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen is on tour in support of his latest release, the bluegrass compilation Happy Prisoner: The Bluegrass Sessions (Dualtone Records). Thirty years since his debut No Kinda Dancer, and twenty-six after taking the roots genre by storm on West Textures, Robert Earl pays tribute to his favorite music and artists with amazing interpretations of bluegrass standards. Joined by the likes of Sara Watkins, Natalie Maynes, Lyle Lovett Robert Earl is in good company on his 12th studio record.

Robert Earl talks with The Backstage Beat about cooking up the title for the album, recording outside of songwriting, advocating for fair artist compensation, his appearance on the Texas Monthly cover with Lyle Lovett, and more.

Be sure to see Robert Earl Keen in concert when he stops by Atlanta’s Variety Playhouse this Saturday, July 18. He’ll be joined by Ruston Kelly as well! Get your tickets here.

Doors: 7:00pm / Show: 8:00 pm
Cost: $25 Adv/ $27.50 Day Of Show

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Today, we bring you a delightful interview with James Casto, creator of songwriter concert series Home by Dark. A regular fixture at Chukkar Farms in Alpharetta, Home by Dark will embark on a new series at the Gwinnett Center for Performing Arts on June 13 to bring the best and brightest in engaging performers to music lovers in an intimate, homey setting. James communicates the Home by Dark experience so eloquently, and it’s a great comfort to know that the music world has such a series to further bridge the gap between performer and audience.

The upcoming show at Gwinnett Center features artists JP Williams and James David Carter, both of whom James sings the praises of as brilliant, captivating talents.

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When: Saturday, June 13 at 8 p.m.

Where: Gwinnett Performing Arts Center