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  Willie Watson

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Soon before Willie Watson turned 18, he met God in an apple orchard. Or at the very least, he met there a man named Ruby Love, the older friend of a high-school buddy who had an enormous Martin guitar and a seemingly bigger understanding of the American folk songbook. Watson was existentially thirsty: A high-school dropout from upstate New Yorks Finger Lakes, he was fast on his way to his first heartbreak and in a first band that didnt take itself seriously enough. But that night in an apple orchard that had always seemed magical, at a graduation party for one of his bandmates and best friends, Watson and Love sang a few of those old songs togetherWorried Man Blues and Tennessee Waltz. It was the first time Watson had cried while singing, the first time he had made the connection between making music and making sense of his life. He never saw Ruby Love again, but within months of that foundational 1997 rendezvous, he met the musicians with whom hed soon start Old Crow Medicine Show. Call it revelation, fate, resurrection, whatever you will; for Watson, more than a quarter-century later, it was a duet with the divine.As told in the talking-gospel masterpiece Reap em in the Valley, that scene is the transfixing finale of Watsons self-titled debut as a songwriter and as a human at last making music to make sense of his life. Yes, Watson has released two albums since he left Old Crow Medicine Show a dozen years ago and since his long-term collaborations with David Rawlings and Gillian Welch. But those records, both titled Folk Singer, were sets of tunes he knew, interpretations of the songbook he has diligently mined since even before that night in the apple orchard. At 44, however, he feels that Willie Watson is his first-ever true album, having finally lived and lost and simply witnessed enough to know he has something to sing with his exquisite rural tenor. Watson has not abandoned those old songs entirely. He dazzles during a robust take on the forever-curious Mole in the Ground and treats Harris and the Mare, the standard of tragic Canadian singer Stan Rogers, with total tenderness. But by and large, these are his stories of heartbreak and hurt, backlit by the corona of hope that only growth can provide.Every memory, Watson likes to say, is surrounded by a shroud of sadness, whether its good or bad. And there are lots of memories in a life, all mixed: Though the band he started soon after that night with Ruby Love long gave him a purpose and career, it conscripted him into a role as an old-fashioned folkie, forever stuck playing a part that got tiring. Marriage and fatherhood became boons in their own time, but they kept him bound to Los Angeles, its sprawl and selfishness causing a country boy like Watson to lose himself again. And there was the stereotypical excess of it all, too, the habits of hard living nearly breaking Watson in his 30s.

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About Willie Watson

Willie Watson is a highly acclaimed American folk musician known for his soulful and captivating performances. With a career spanning over two decades, Watson has established himself as a prominent figure in the contemporary folk music scene. Born and raised in Watkins Glen, New York, Willie Watson developed a deep passion for music at an early age. Influenced by traditional folk, blues, and country artists, he honed his skills as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Watson's distinctive voice, characterized by its raw and emotive quality, has become his trademark, captivating audiences worldwide. As a founding member of the renowned folk band Old Crow Medicine Show, Watson gained widespread recognition for his contributions to their Grammy-winning album "O.C.M.S." His departure from the band in 2011 marked the beginning of his solo career, allowing him to explore his own musical style and artistic vision. Watson's solo work showcases his mastery of various instruments, including the guitar, banjo, and harmonica. His performances often feature a blend of traditional folk tunes, original compositions, and reinterpretations of classic songs. Watson's ability to breathe new life into old melodies while staying true to their roots has garnered him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. In addition to his solo endeavors, Watson has collaborated with numerous renowned artists, including Gillian Welch, Dave Rawlings, and The Punch Brothers. These collaborations have further solidified his reputation as a versatile and highly sought-after musician. Fans of Willie Watson eagerly anticipate his live performances, which are known for their intimate and captivating atmosphere. Whether performing in small venues or at major music festivals, Watson's stage presence and heartfelt delivery create an unforgettable experience for his audience. With his rich musical heritage and unwavering dedication to his craft, Willie Watson continues to push the boundaries of folk music. His soul-stirring performances and timeless sound have made him a beloved figure in the industry, captivating listeners with his authenticity and passion. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, Willie Watson's artistry is sure to leave a lasting impression. Experience the magic of his music and immerse yourself in the world of this extraordinary folk musician.