My SXSW

Got into town late Wednesday night on a flight from Nashville. As usual, I could hardly sleep. The first 18 times I did South by Southwest, having trouble sleeping was out of nerves for the shows. This time it wasn't nerves, but excitement. And I guess out of habit. Just looking at the Chronicle and seeing all that was going on made me thrilled to be here in the company of many of the world's greatest musicians.

Driving from the airport to the hotel brought up so many memories of why I love Austin. There's no place like it and I knew I'd see so many friends and get my mind blown by so much great music.

This morning, Thursday, I got out of bed, did my morning tai chi, and prepared for the first gig of the day at the New West Records party at Threadgill's. I'm here playing with Buddy Miller, promoting our new record Buddy and Jim, which was recently put out by New West. They have a great roster at the label showcase tonight, and today I got to see most of it: Richard Thompson, John Hiatt, Corb Lund, Daniel Romano (who I've never seen), and Max Gomez, who recently toured with us.

Looking forward to playing the Americana Music Association showcase to close out Thursday night.

Friday, they have us busy! We start at noon with a party for Paste magazine and then at 4pm we're playing at Hotel San Jose, where I will also sit in with my friends the North Mississippi Allstars, who I recorded an album with recently to come out hopefully in the fall. Aside from the amazing music around town, I'm making sure I also get time to enjoy one thing in particular:

Some amazing food!

9pm, New West Records Showcase, Parish