Almanac Music: Robert Earl Keen – ‘The Road Goes On And On’
Robert Earl Keen is a Texan singer-songwriter who has recorded 18 albums since his debut in 1984.
REK first came to my notice with his 2011 fantastic album Ready For Confetti featuring many songs of note but in particular I was drawn to the very catchy ‘The Road Goes On And On’ which I soon realised is the best put down song since ‘Positively 4th Street’ by Bob. Keen was not overly amused by a Toby Keith song which REK alleged Keith ripped off from one of his. Rather than spending a lot time and money in courts pursuing the issue with Keith he decided the best payback was a song, and what a ripper.
You can read all about the tiff between the two artists in these magazine reports Here and Here,
Ready For Confetti is one of my favourite albums from the past ten years or so. It is a cracker and not a filler amongst the tracks. Enjoy listening to the album below.
Here is a Spotify playlist of some of Robert Earl Keen‘s most popular songs.
After 41 years on the road, Keen has announced this will be his final year touring. I’m pleased I had the opportunity to see him perform at JazzFest on the Fais Do Do Stage a few years ago.
Check out the website of Robert Earl Keen Here
More from Col Ritchie can be read Here
Read more stories from Almanac Music HERE
If you would like to receive the Almanac Music and Poetry newsletter we will add you to the list. Please email us: [email protected]
To return to the www.footyalmanac.com.au home page click HERE
Our writers are independent contributors. The opinions expressed in their articles are their own. They are not the views, nor do they reflect the views, of Malarkey Publications.
Do you enjoy the Almanac concept?
And want to ensure it continues in its current form, and better? To help keep things ticking over please consider making your own contribution.
Become an Almanac (annual) member – CLICK HERE
One-off financial contribution – CLICK HERE
Regular financial contribution (monthly EFT) – CLICK HERE
About Colin Ritchie
Retired teacher who enjoys following the Bombers, listening to music especially Bob Dylan, reading, and swimming.
Thanks Col. You do keep them coming!
The Road Goes On and On. Great put-down song. Terrific lyrics and swooping pedal steel guitar.
I can think of a number people to whom the lyrics could be directed.
“You’ll have to Google that”. I wondered where Adam Bandt got that line.
Another road song of his, probably his signature tune, The Road Goes On Forever, is a great narrative song about two misfits.
In similar vein to Steve Earle’s Billy and Bonnie.
And Robert Earl Keen’s Merry Christmas From The Family is high on my Christmas playlist.