It’s summertime in Austin, and that means it’s time for some folk on this episode of the Austinot Music Podcast. That’s right. To me, Summer means folk music, road trips and bare feet. Those images personify an American summer in my mind.
Similarly, folk music personifies a few things as well. First, it personifies the stripped-down appeal of the Summer and a very American way of approaching problems. Historically speaking, folk music has provided a way for the everyman to comment on his society, religion or historical period. It’s a vital part of the American identity.
That’s why I am happy to feature a folk artist out of Round Rock, named Ron Kewin. Both his musicality and lyricism are deeply in the vein of American folk music. It’s just him and his guitar, simple words and straightforward opinions – just how I like folk music.
Ron Kewin moved to the Austin area five years ago. He spent much time ruminating about the various troubles that face today’s society. Perhaps it was Austin’s love affair with live music, but something put a flame beneath Ron and he began writing down his thoughts like a mad man. As of now, he has written over seventy songs and has played dozens upon dozens of live shows.
Ron’s music covers many different topics, most of which fall into the traditional genre of folk. He certainly has many things to say about politics and the state of our society. He also sings about religion as well. It’s not all heavy stuff, though. Ron Kewin’s voluminous work also covers simple things like animals, food and the great state of Texas.
Check out his ReverbNation page for some more music. If you like, send him an email and ask where you can purchase some of his music. Then simply kick off your shoes and hit the road for another long and hot Summer!
@DustyVegas asks:
What do you think of Ron’s music?
Want to be featured on an upcoming episode of the Austinot Music Podcast? Send Austinot Dusty a quick note using our Contact form.
Photo and music are property of Ron Kewin.
It is an honor to be featured on the Austinot music podcast!
I am continuing to write new songs, some just plain fun but others have a political and/or religious message – I’m thinking my music and style appeals mainly to people of my generation. I know there are mostly younger people on these websites and maybe a few who are older than me. I’m wondering if I could get some comments about how you are receiving and perceiving my music – no matter what you age – thanks.
@3c788441c17b001531324678ec9b25b5:disqus we are glad to have you on the Austinot and I love that you are doing what you are doing. I’d like to know who your musical influences have been.
Thanks Eric! In grade school I got hooked on the Beatles, but listened
to all kinds of music – country, classical, folk, and other rock. I was heavy into the Rolling Stones and similar stuff thru high school. In college I learned to play guitar, doing John Denver and Jim Croce mostly. I
was into reading a lot about history, and got interested in German folk
songs, and listening to much more classical music. Some of the
performers I liked during that time were Martin Mull (his humor and
music are great), Dave Rudolf (from northeast Illinois – similar to Mull
but more kid oriented). I had not played much guitar until many years
later when I moved to Texas. I went to the Kerrville Folk Festival and
discovered how folk music was large and inventive. I heard some
fantastic and jaw dropping music there on the ‘New Folk’ stage. So I’d
say that I have some rhythms and ‘looseness’ from the Beatles and Croce,
some ways to present my ideas from Mull and Denver. As I wrote songs I
discovered my musical style and ability fit into the folk genre. I came
up with my own style of playing and lyrics. I find the creative process
fascinating – always like to hear how other people come up with ideas and how they put them down on paper them play them. Thanks for the feedback!
It is an honor to be featured on the Austinot music podcast!
I am
continuing to write new songs, some just plain fun but others have a
political and/or religious message – I’m thinking my music and style
appeals mainly to people of my generation. I know there are mostly
younger people on these websites and maybe a few who are older than me.
I’m wondering if I could get some comments about how you are receiving
and perceiving my music – no matter what your age – thanks.