Traveling troubadours and wandering minstrels are alive and well and entertaining appreciative audiences all over these United States, thanks to the rebirth of House Concerts in the late 20th century. The difference is that today they are called singer-songwriters and then—you have to know where to find them. One such venue is NB House Concerts (New Braunfels for those not in the know) where Michael and I sit and listen to Johnsmith, telling his stories and singing his songs, while sipping on a BYOB of delicious cabernet sauvignon.
I never knew about House Concerts when I lived in the city. It wasn’t until I moved to the Texas Hills that I fell into this wonderful world of musical discovery—everywhere! All of the time.
Johnsmith
His Music
An Eagle
Watching Johnsmith I am charmed by his demeanor. He is a gentle soul who loves the simple things in life and appreciates and acknowledges magic when it appears on his doorstep—a tail feather of a bald eagle. The second one gifted to him, both by a mom and dad eagle who built their nest 6 feet from his doorstep and 50 feet above his head where the eagles hatched and nurtured two baby eaglets until they flew from the safety of their nest. It was a sad day for Johnsmith and his wife when the eaglets left the nest, but the departing gift of a tailfeather remains a fond memory—and a song.
And Elder Tree
This is just one of so many of Johnsmith’s stories that touched his heart, taking root in his soul, and evolving into a melody that touches the souls of others. His songs come from nowhere and everywhere. Walking out his front door is inspiration—a Box Elder inspires him. Box Elders are an invasive species of trees that are probably cursed as much in the areas they flourish as cedar trees are cursed in Texas. Yet Johnsmith plaintively sings, “…though I know you are guilty of nothing, but a strong will to live in the light…” And that one phrase really makes you stop and think—about a lot of things.
Dave Carter
And he acknowledges the talent of others and writes a song singing the praise of one who died too young—his talent sorely missed. And I listen. “His songs were a mouthful of blackberries oozing down your chin full and ripe and sweet as all of sin…” And I think—these could be words written about him.
Ireland
Johnsmith not only has music in his soul,
NB House Concerts
Elaine Hayden has been hosting House concerts in her lovely home for the past 11 years. Johnsmith is just one of so many talented songbirds and poets that inhabit this land. Elaine always finds the best and shares their talent with the lucky individuals who are able to secure tickets.
Each time I make reservations to go to a House Concert, I never do research on the artist beforehand. I always wait. I want to be surprised, remembering the famous line from Forest Gump, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you are going to get.” So are House Concerts. I never know, but I am always delighted.
To learn more Elaine Hayden’s NB House Concerts and other artists, click on the following links.
Music – NB House Concerts with Tracy Grammer
Music – Billy Crockett A Man and His Music
Then be sure to click on the link below to the NB House Concerts website and secure tickets for future events!
http://nbhouseconcerts.haydencenter.com/
Johnsmith
I love the words and music coming from Johnsmith’s soul. Listen for yourself and buy a CD to be able to listen again–anywhere. His music will warm your heart.
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