Last night, Robert Earl Keen, Jr. played at Concrete Street Amphitheater in Corpus Christi.
It was the final time we got to hear the song "Corpus Christi Bay" sung, well, near the Corpus Christi Bay.
I have long been a fan of Robert Earl Keen. First introduced to his music by a friend in the 1990s, I was captivated by his story telling. He really is I think the best at that, though he would say otherwise I'm sure. Who else could have done a song like this about Boquillas near Big Bend National Park?
I've driven a many a mile listening to his music. I have been blessed to have seen him in concert numerous times. I have had the chance to interview him on the radio. I've met him a few times, but only had the chance to casually visit with him one time, and that was enjoyable. Thank you Robert Earl Keen for all the years, shows and music!
Robert Earl Keen announced earlier this year that he is retiring from touring. He said in part:
“It is with a mysterious concoction of joy and sadness that I want to tell you as of September 4th, 2022, I will no longer tour or perform publicly. I plan to continue to write songs, interview a wide variety of celebrities and contributors for our Americana podcast. I also embrace this as an opportunity to further support the music community, and the ever-expanding body of young talent on our horizon.”
“I’m not sick, or experiencing some existential crisis,” he assures, “I feel that making a decision, and quitting the road while I still love it is the way I want to leave it.”