Serendipity often leads us to the most memorable places. Following a recent article highlighting Jerry Jeff Walker’s iconic album ¡Viva Terlingua!, recorded at the legendary Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall, we received a note from our contributing photographer, Kevin Smith. Kevin, who previously shared his lens on the Nashville Boogie, had his own Luckenbach stories and photos waiting to be told. This week, we delve into the charm and enduring spirit of Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall through Kevin’s experiences.
Kevin Smith is a familiar name to No Depression readers, known for his insightful coverage of Americana and roots music events. His previous contributions include a captivating look at the 2019 Nashville Boogie, and he is also a regular contributor to Blue Suede News and Saving Country Music. Continuing our exploration of significant music locations, we present Kevin’s personal journey to Luckenbach, Texas, through his words and photographs.
The Enduring Legacy of Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall
Today, the Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall stands as a vibrant hub for live music and dancing, drawing visitors from across the globe. Its popularity is significantly boosted by the timeless hit song “Luckenbach Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” penned by Bobby Emmons and Chips Moman and made famous by Waylon Jennings. Interestingly, while Willie Nelson is a frequent performer at Luckenbach, Waylon Jennings graced its stage only once. The original dance hall remains remarkably unchanged, a testament to its historical significance. A banner proudly displaying Jerry Jeff Walker’s name is positioned stage right, a nod to his deep connection with the venue. Luckenbach continues to host a stellar lineup of artists, including Willie Nelson, Dale Watson, and Asleep at the Wheel. Dale Watson even penned a song celebrating its unique atmosphere, “Everybody’s Somebody in Luckenbach, Texas.” Beyond scheduled concerts, impromptu jam sessions are a daily occurrence, with musicians gathering outside to play, creating a constant soundtrack of authentic Texas music.
In a fitting tribute to its cultural importance, the Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall was honored as Venue of the Year at the 2020 Ameripolitan Music Awards. Owner Cris Graham accepted the award, a recognition of her dedication to preserving and promoting this iconic Texas landmark.
A Personal Connection: Cris Graham and Jerry Jeff Walker
Kevin’s encounter with Cris Graham, daughter of Dance Hall founder Hondo Crouch, began at the 2019 Ameripolitan Music Awards. Backstage, while photographing artists, Cris noticed Kevin’s Luckenbach Texas shirt. “Hey, thanks for wearing my shirt!” she exclaimed. Kevin, initially confused, soon learned he was speaking with the owner of Luckenbach.
Their conversation blossomed, with Kevin sharing his recent visit to Luckenbach and his experience photographing Jerry Jeff Walker at the Nashville Boogie. Cris, intrigued, shared a heartwarming story about Jerry Jeff. She recounted Jerry Jeff Walker’s battle with throat cancer and the serious surgery he underwent in 2018. Walker’s plea to his surgeon was simple: “Doc, I just want to sing again.” The surgeon’s optimistic prognosis not only promised a successful surgery but practically guaranteed the preservation of Walker’s singing voice.
The surgery was indeed a success, enabling Walker to continue singing and even record a new album. Adding a remarkable twist to the story, the surgeon revealed he had been present at the Luckenbach Dance Hall in 1973 during the recording of ¡Viva Terlingua!. The man who saved Jerry Jeff Walker’s voice was also a fan of the music born at Luckenbach.
Nashville Boogie and Luckenbach Legends: Jerry Jeff Walker, Bobby Bare, and Gary P. Nunn
Kevin had previously photographed Jerry Jeff Walker in 2017 when he headlined the Nashville Boogie at the Grand Ole Opry. Despite being seated for much of his performance, Walker was in excellent form, captivating the audience with classics like Guy Clark’s “LA Freeway,” Ray Wylie Hubbard’s “Up Against The Wall Redneck Mother,” and his own beloved songs, “Mr. Bojangles,” and “Trashy Women.” He shared stories and paid tribute to departed friends, notably with a poignant rendition of Guy Clark’s tribute to his wife Suzanne, “My Favorite Picture of You.” The evening concluded with Gary P. Nunn’s “London Homesick Blues,” famously known as the Austin City Limits theme song, bringing a touch of Texas to Nashville.
Opening for Walker that night was Bobby Bare, a legend in his own right with a 50+ year career and a profound influence on countless artists. Bare delivered a set of his hits, including “Detroit City,” “Streets of Baltimore,” and “The Winner,” setting the stage perfectly for Walker.
That same evening, Kevin also photographed Texas outlaw music icon Gary P. Nunn. Nunn, who contributed to six Jerry Jeff Walker albums as a member of the Lost Gonzo Band, established himself as a prominent figure in Texas music. The Lost Gonzo Band also backed Cosmic Cowboy Michael Martin Murphey, and Nunn further solidified his reputation as a successful songwriter. His songs have been recorded by artists like David Allan Coe, Willie Nelson, and Chris Stapleton, and he remains a beloved performer in Texas and beyond.
Explore Kevin’s photographs below, capturing the essence of the Dance Hall, Jerry Jeff Walker, Bobby Bare, Gary P. Nunn, and other artists from the Ameripolitan Music Awards, including Tanya Tucker, Whitney Rose, Charley Crockett, and Cris Graham.
Cris Graham, owner of Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall, at the Ameripolitan Music Awards.
Cris Graham, owner of Luckenbach Texas Dance Hall, at the Ameripolitan Music Awards.
Bobby Bare performing at Nashville Boogie, an influential artist across generations.
Bobby Bare performing at Nashville Boogie, an influential artist across generations.
