Steve Earle coming to Bend is one of the coolest, most intriguing bookings we've seen at the Tower Theatre (PDXchange not included) this year and that's probably why the show is sold out and has been for a while.
While there are almost 500 ticket holders who know plenty about Steve Earle and understand why they should see the politically minded country rocker, it's still worth noting (and celebrating) the fact that such a performer is playing in town. So, think of June 29 as Steve Earle Day in Bend - even if you didn't get a ticket in time.
Earle has long been a songwriting hero in the country, rock and folk worlds, first coming into the spotlight for the line of hits he penned in the late 1970s and early '80s, including tracks for Carl Perkins and Vince Gill, among plenty others. As he gradually shifted toward rock influences, he became a hero to another generation of music fans and after a stint in jail as a result of drug charges, Earle returned stronger than ever, rising to an even higher level of prominence.
Last year, Earle released Townes, an album of recordings written by country folkie Townes Van Zandt, who was a close friend of Earle's before passing away in 1997. The record, which includes memorable cuts like "Pancho and Lefty," is already considered one of the strongest tribute records of all time and even earned Earle a Grammy.
Although Earle has been known to appear with a full rock band, this show in Bend is a solo acoustic gig. But that's good - you'll be able to hear the songs better that way.
Steve Earle
8pm Tuesday, June 29. Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St. All ages. Sold out.
