A Musician's Life: Justin Townes Earle

Series: A Musician's Life
From: WXPN
Length: 00:05:00

Justin Townes Earle talks about his childhood as the son of songwriter Steve Earle, his teenage infatuation with drugs and alcohol and why he prefers mountain music of yesteryear over popular music of today . Read the full description.
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Piece Description

At 25, Justin Townes Earle has just released his debut CD called "The Good Life". It's an ironic title given his life experience. Justin was raised by his mom in Nashville while his dad the songwriter Steve Earle toured the country playing music and struggling with drug addiction. Justin followed his father's footsteps. He discovered music at an early age, dropped out of school in the 8th grade and rapidly became addicted to drugs and alcohol. After a near death experience, Justin sobered up. He's been clean for four years. Justin Townes Earle's debut album has an old-timey feel but it's steeped in today's world.

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Review of A Musician's Life: Justin Townes Earle

Well produced! Sounds like a typical musician who grows up not liking his father, drinks, and does drugs. I liked the music, and the piece flowed. However, the message was not particulary inspiring-nor did it teach, or have any sort of lesson built in.

Broadcast History

Will be broadcast on WXPN in Philadelphia last week in October or first week in November. It is available as a podcast through NPR beginning week of September 29th, 2008

Timing and Cues

begins with about :02 theme music then dips "This is AML. I'm TT with Justin Townes Earle"...ends with "For AML, I'm TT" music quickly fades under and out at 5:00