If there’s anything to see in Austin during what has become of SXSW, it’s the Luck Reunion. In fact, as far as I’m concerned, it’s probably the only thing to see. A safe distance from town at Willie Nelson‘s ranch, it’s a one-day festival that spotlights some of our favorite Nashville artists, like Erin Rae, Margo Price, Andrew Combs, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Kelsey Waldon, Parker Millsap and so many others (like Nelson himself, and Conor Oberst). We asked Erin to share the experience with us through this exclusive photo diary – click through and spend some virtual time on the ranch.
We made it to Springleaf, TX just in time to play an intimate set at The Secret Barn, a stage modeled after last year’s gully-washer. Was such a special set for us. It created the opportunity to connect on a more personal level. Loved it! (Photo by Laura Partain)
Both times I’ve been to SXSW my favorite memories have come from this magical place south of town called Sam’s Town Point, now run by Ramsay Midwood and members of Mike & the Moonpies. It’s like stepping into a movie. Huge dance floor, amazing food, and bring your own liquor. Here is my favorite band, The Kernal, out of Jackson, TN playing Saturday night. Check out his new album, “Light Country”!
Blackspot Tattoo Shop from Lufkin, Texas came up to Austin, and Margo & crew let me join them in their hotel for hand poke tattoos. Katie is a PRO and if you get the chance to work with them, make it happen! Doesn’t even hurt. Momma, it was totally sterile and safe, I swears!
There he is! The man himself, Mr. Willie Nelson! He sounds just like his records. This was my first time seeing him play, and it was so incredible. His voice is so perfect, I couldn’t believe it.
Traipsing through the main drag, headed to the main stage. That sky!
Miss Margo Price in her custom Ft. Lonesome “Good & Evil” denim outfit playing an amazing set to a great crowd. The gals from Ft. Lonesome were set up all day, working hard to customize jackets for the artists. So much amazing work behind the scenes at Luck. The list goes on and on.
I had the pleasure of opening for Andrew Combs on the way down to Texas this year, and I got to see them play songs from his new record each night. Here they are at one of the most fun parties we got to play, Brooklyn Country Cantina @ Lichas. The BEST food, and amazing bands on the front and back stages. Michaela Anne played with her four piece band just before us and put on such a great show.
My personal favorite Luck Reunion photographer, working her butt off for the sake of the shot, Miss Laura Partain. She is one of Nashville’s finest treasures, and a true artist. Hope to make a habit out of getting to experience this day. Loved every minute.
Here we have Miss Kelsey Waldon, Kentuckian by way of Nashville on the Chapel Stage. Her band ripped it up, and that drummer was f*n groovin. She went from her song “The Heartbreak” right into “Heartbreak Road” by Bill Withers, and sang the hell out of it.
Andrew Combs on the Chapel Stage, playing to a packed room. This was my favorite spot I think, such a sucker for an old chapel.
The best part of Luck Reunion was being surrounded by so many good friends and getting to celebrate their music and see them do their thing in such a picturesque setting. Got to hang out with two of my favorite Nashville gals on the roof while we waited for Willie to start playing, Kelsey Waldon (L) and Michaela Anne (R).
Lockeland Springsteen 