Austin, TX
September 29, 2002
~ Brandi
It was Day 2 of the ACL Festival, and I seemed to be on some kind of little fluffy cloud. We ran into a friend and family member strolling out of the gates as we walked in—proof positive of why I love this little town. No matter how much it grows, the Community of it is still small enough.
After checking out the label, I realized what a great fit this was. I admit, I have much to learn about The Business Side of music. I myself aspire to such dreams that any artist hopes to realize. Not that of money or fame, but for more folks to hear the voice of the soul, and to leave some kind of mark. Each person is different than any that have come before, and any that will come after. But, Sugar Hill seems to be such a well-rounded group with the Famous and Not So Famous, and that makes me feel good. They have a similar philosophy as I when it comes to music. People often ask me, “So, Brandi, what kind of music do you like?” My universal response: “I like GOOD music.”
I kept turning to my friend Sarah during the show and saying, “You know- I’m sad that they might have to leave us and really head out into The World. But, I cannot take away from the excitement they must be feeling right now. I couldn’t be happier for them. I’ve never followed a group of people this far on their journey.”
One part of their performance will forever stand out in my mind…. “If you walk out on me now…” It really rings in my ears. I finally understand the depth of the words. Look here: I believe in what we’re doing. I know we are on the right path. If you want to try and thwart our efforts- fine. But, I know our destination is true.
After it was all over and the gear was broken down, I caught a glimpse of the complexities that lie ahead. From stage left, I saw Willy standing on the hill alone by a tree atop one of the small hills in Zilker Park. It’s a long journey ahead. And it may be lonely at times. He stood between the stage on which Reckless Kelly performed and that stage upon which Emmylou Harris was winding down her show… What lay ahead? Cherish this quiet moment, for I know not how many more I may get.
Or, perhaps he was simply enjoying the beauty that is Emmylou.
GOOD music……
A day wiser, and a little bit cooler, we meandered over to the stage to settle in and take in Cross Canadian Ragweed. I had never heard them before (I know- and I’m not proud of it), and I was happy to finally personally know of their art. But, it was Reckless Kelly that I came to see. It was only hours before that I learned of their signing with Sugar Hill. I heard rumors that this was coming down the pipeline.
So, as we moved more center stage during the final sound-check, I couldn’t help but get just a bit excited. With beverage in hand, I vocalized my joy as RK took the stage.
Yes, I admit, I’m no music critic… just a fan. I can’t recall the exact song order (save the occasional set list to eyeball -- You can check out the larger set list image here.
), but I do know the energy. I even called Tracy in the middle of the show hoping to spread the joy.
Time and again during the show, I let my vision pan the crowd, and I felt humanity from those around me. It felt good. And that’s still what it’s all about- no matter what.
