James McMurtry "We Can't Make It Here"

musicfog.com James McMurtry performs a song that my be even more relevant now than when he wrote it years ago. Filmed at Threadgill's WHQ in Austin, Texas during the Music Fog Marathon in March, 2012.

[@Spicelife59]

This guy is so on target with his lyrics. The modern Dylan, but hey, he's been around a long time. This is the kind of music that SHOULD be played on the airwaves today.

[@georgebarry3153]

call them...make em play it.

[@ytukike]

the airwaves are owned by the neocons, not in their interest.

[@joannehack7588]

Yep

[@craigbfolksinger]

His father was an great writer also

[@williamwardell8731]

Man why do people compare mcmurtry or gil scott-heron to Bob Dylan so often? James and gil can sing and play an instrument.

[@kelliesalome1115]

“James McMurtry may be the truest, fiercest songwriter of his generation” - Stephen King

[@SteveninTune]

Stephen has an ear for truth 😊

[@lusoverse8710]

"High on Jesus and hooked on dope". What a songwriter.

[@bryanmarshall5767]

This should be replacing all the Shitty songs you hear on the radio today. Makes me cry how truthful it is, and how little people understand. I struggle everyday, and this guy knows it, thanks James.

[@emzyking5847]

Bryan Marshall amen

[@bcaye]

I don't know all the details but it seems hard to believe that he understands exactly how it feels considering that his dad is a millionaire. I freely admit that in my current situation I know I have that safety net. My folks aren't Larry Mcmurtry rich, but enough that I will never be homeless.

[@dennisrounds1996]

Because despite any money which he may or may not have he is one of U.S. He moved around the country living between his Mother and Father and experienced life and turmoil among many different groups of people in this Nation.

[@SteveninTune]

I never listen to modern garbage Auto Tune crap

[@SteveninTune]

​@bcaye google Empathy something 99% of which is void in rich people just like you. But their is that 1% true heart like James ❤

[@wespuckdog3897]

America's best unknown singer-songwriter.

[@Booklover32]

I never would've known of this guy if it weren't for his father Larry McMurtry, writer of Lonesome Dove. On that note, I'm a fan already just from him being the offspring.

[@BirdDawg-l5s]

Speak for yourself bud lol

[@hermanmunster714]

Dangerous Song even in 2024. Thanks brother.

[@expatlar]

That is one hell of a live music performance. I feel bad for anyone who put this on but didn't watch him play the guitar and look at his face when he was singin' those words. So powerful and unfortunately still so damned current.

[@gregeverett7686]

Continental club brothers

[@willywonkalol2433]

There is a Country music artist that purports to know small town America. This song is way more truthful than that other one.

[@franosborne8198]

Wow. 2022 and nothing has changed. Powerful lyrics.

[@mmiller1188]

Nearly 20 years later and this song is more relevant than it was when he released it.

[@judykettenhofen1700]

@@mmiller1188 um... maybe check your math?

[@emzyking5847]

Everything has only gotten worse.

[@FalconMidget]

The system is working as intended

[@chucklutter7399]

2024

[@paulj312002]

should be the new national anthem for USA

[@caitlinboskey6466]

The first time I saw this, I said the same thing!

[@Firebird1967SS]

Hell yeah brother

[@lauratarver8466]

James McMurtry! What a great song! You are on my everyday listening playlist. A most relevant song 12 years later.

[@danielmargrain6289]

Masterpiece of storytelling - more relevant now than ever.

[@Desertcat50]

An arrow straight to the heart and soul of this country. Well done!!

[@murraykenney4152]

I first heard him singing Choctaw Bingo. He’s outstanding.

[@drsmainemusic]

Shout out to 100.3 WKIT out of Bangor, Maine! "Stephen King's rock station." My childhood rock station... Played this at least weekly back in the day. James is a huge inspiration on my own songwriting now as a 30 year old metalhead just trying to live life. 🤘 This is such a killer performance

[@57jmahoney]

A unacknowledged genius- Better than Bob Dylan in the 60's - as they say if your not outraged, your not paying attention. Thanks

[@samlsmithmusic]

I can only describe this song as “real.” A real person using his real voice, real language, singing about reality, with real anger and real feeling. Must be what hearing Dylan was first like.

[@petercelle1796]

“You don’t come down here anymore, unless you’re trying to score….” So sad, so scary, so true, so many places.

[@gregeverett7686]

We are fortunate to have him @ continental club...rockit James from ATX

[@sarge27271]

This should be on the air, on social media, everywhere!!!!! James, you nailed it! Kudos.

[@wiscgaloot]

It plays regularly on KPIG in Freeedom CA, but KPIG is pretty much unique.

[@ozozerene]

This song writing talent is humbling, it blows me away and hits the spot. Thank you.

[@johnfkarr]

21st Century Woody Guthrie!

[@tdb517]

+johnny B Why do you think so? I really don't see the link between them 2...

[@johnfkarr]

+K GB Guthrie sang songs that told the truth about the American society and life in the days he lived. I haven't heard truth like his until McMurtry wrote about the underside of our society. He hits the nail on the head.

[@seanmcglynn3638]

What I absolutely love about this song is that you know he has sung it tens of thousands times since 1989 and he is still intense believes it love James see him every year he comes thru the bay area...one of the greatest songwriters making music...support him

[@Grizzly406]

One of the best there is. James and his lyrical talent is top tier and so true. The musician part is at the top also. I’ll be going to his show in Whitefish Montana October 22nd 🙌

[@SamWhitlock]

Seeing him in Seattle on Thursday! Seriously so damn excited to see this show!

[@chriscarney3892]

Brilliance. Thank God there’s still protesters 💜

[@bruceschorr3926]

This is spot on. Needs to be played every day across every station

[@TheSidFang]

Years on, this song still makes me weep.

[@debrahobson2208]

One of the best songs of all time. Have loved this guy for many many years.

[@robertgibson7141]

Taps directly into the great underbelly of American society that the MSM refuse to acknowledge. Tonya's Dad.

[@anitanash7777]

EVERYONE should listen to this powerful song❤️🙏✌️... thank you from NSW Aus... Does anyone else see the Billy Connolly resemblance?!😆

[@Rumtoad1]

Ha! Now that you mention it, yes!

[@nickabbott8453]

This guy is so good! We went to hear him live awhile back and enjoyed the hell out of it. He's a real nice guy too.

[@califbozo]

NOT MANY GUYS CAN ENTERTAIN LIKE THIS WITH JUST A VOICE AND GUITAR~~~~~~

[@Sjyoutheman]

Damn striget

[@Steven-c3n3m]

Wow, what a Visionary poet still as relevant 35 years later. Great Music, great Man, made in America. Brilliant ! Thank you for sharing your Music James !

[@glenchase1294]

Found this guy in 08 , been a huge fan since. Got a chance to see him at The Belly Up in San Diego. Got a chance to talk with him for a few minutes. I was amazed at his intelligence. He makes art from Americana and it flows like wine....

[@lawnboyfromhell]

True as gospel and tragic as Hell! Awesome tune brother, you are a visionary!

[@jonathanjames8321]

Yes this song is right on point! Love these lyrics even though it’s a sad story where our country has lost our pride. We can only hope people in power wake the hell up!

[@wingingitmusic]

amazed by his ability to hold the audience - all with some good lyrics and 12 string mastery!

[@chucklutter7399]

February 29, 2024. Google maps just mistakenly led me to a hospital that closed. Needed to hear this song. Fantastic man, writer, singer and songwriter! BEST AND PEACE

[@vinvin9729]

This is truthful, meaningful; this is music. His voice, the lyrics, and the guitar are true American music. Music is not that good ANYMORE 😢

[@kennewicksheri]

" Vietnam Vet with a cardboard sign Sitting there by the left turn line Flag on the wheelchair flapping in the breeze One leg missing, both hands free No one's paying much mind to him The V.A. budget's stretched so thin And there's more comin' home from the Mideast war We can't make it here anymore ...."

[@jimwontshutup1]

powerful as hell

[@drill586]

Love his music......musta got lost in the back yard when I went out to play...

[@musicloverkathy]

A particularly powerful version of this song. We need this voice now more than ever.

[@paulelliott3220]

James is frankly wonderful Every album an absolute treat Great great great

[@heinzjurgen8016]

This helps me when I'm down sometimes. Just listen to this masterpiece and forget all your worries!

[@alien4fish]

Best Video of this song EVER!!

[@1953mel]

I can't quit watching this...me and the wife both...every word rings too true...

[@SkiFastBadly]

Ok first things first, beautifully photographed. Second, not for nothing, but he looks seriously pissed off. Which is appropriate. Well done, thanks for posting.

[@3dayrain282]

He is pissed! True singer Songwriter.

[@typacsk]

Reminds me of that bumper sticker--"If you're not outraged, you're not paying attention"

[@edjoyce6217]

So good

[@batpappy]

3 chords and the truth

[@dgpage1]

Wow

[@elrod1240]

hell yes!!!!!

[@richardnotman787]

I will take your word on how many chords, but he is singing God's honest truth.

[@willschumann]

Jason isbell

[@matcotech]

Now THAT'S folk music!

[@JohnRoberts74]

A Realists Song.....No hiding words right to the point...Couldn't ask for anything more...Great Song.

[@ringo12112]

Beautiful song and very true full lyrics.

[@georgecraig7019]

Fredo Marinela you are so true

[@boboften9952]

We Can't Make It Here Song by James McMurtry Lyrics There's a Vietnam vet with a cardboard sign Sitting there by the left turn line The flag on his wheelchair flapping in the breeze One leg missing and both hands free No one's paying much mind to him The V.A. budget's just stretched so thin And now there' s more coming back from the Mideast war We can't make it here anymore And that big ol' building was the textile mill That fed our kids and it paid our bills But they turned us out and they closed the doors 'Cause we can' t make it here anymore You see those pallets piled up on the loading dock They're just gonna sit there 'til they rot 'Cause there's nothing to ship, nothing to pack Just busted concrete and rusted tracks Empty storefronts around the square There's a needle in the gutter and glass everywhere You don't come down here unless you're looking to score We can't make it here anymore The bar's still open but man it' s slow The tip jar's light and the register' s low The bartender don't have much to say The regular crowd gets thinner each day Some have maxed out all their credit cards Some are working two jobs and living in cars Minimum wage won't pay for a roof, won't pay for a drink If you gotta have proof just try it yourself, Mr. CEO See how far seven and a quarter will go Take a part time job at one your stores I bet you can't make it here anymore There's a high school girl with a bourgeois dream Just like the pictures in the magazine She found on the floor of the laundromat A woman with kids can forget all that If she comes up pregnant what'll she do Forget the career and forget about school Can she live on faith? Live on hope? High on Jesus or hooked on dope When it's way too late to just say no You can't make it here anymore Now I'm stocking shirts in the Wal-Mart store Just like the ones we made before 'Cept this one came from Singapore I guess we can't make it here anymore Should I hate a people for the shade of their skin Or the shape of their eyes or the shape I'm in Should I hate 'em for having our jobs today No, I hate the men sent the jobs away I can see them all now, they haunt my dreams All lily white and squeaky clean They've never known want, they'll never know need Their shit don't stink and their kids won't bleed Their kids won't bleed in their damn little war And we can't make it here anymore Will work for food, will die for oil Will kill for power, and to us the spoils The billionaires get to pay less tax The working poor get to fall through the cracks So let 'em eat jellybeans let 'em eat cake Let 'em eat shit, whatever it takes They can join the Air Force or join the Corps If they can't make it here anymore So that's how it is, that's what we got If the president wants to admit it or not You can read it in the paper, read it on the wall Hear it on the wind if you're listening at all Get out of that limo, look us in the eye Call us on the cell phone, tell us all why In Dayton, Ohio or Portland, Maine Or a cotton gin out on the great high plains That's done closed down, along with the school And the hospital, and the swimming pool Dust devils dance in the noonday heat There's rats in the alley and trash in the street Gang graffiti on a boxcar door We can't make it here anymore Songwriters: James Mcmurtry We Can't Make It Here lyrics © Short Trip Music

[@TXmuseic]

Thanks for this. Sad saga, still too true.

[@harryhusbands6408]

First I've heard of James and damn... just, damn... thank you.

[@lysergicdancing]

Looking forward to seeing James live this Friday.Been a fan since I got turned on to his music back in the mid-nineties.

[@LongBeachHuntington]

A true American Artist.

[@CheapWineVideo]

Really great! This song is great! Thank you James

[@c.b.-11]

"2023" we aren't making it, we're taking it. Got to change

[@auntdonnamarie]

Thank YOU James, spot on.

[@Queenie9671]

Love Love Love! Sad but truth wrote & sang by an extraordinary man. P.B.F.H.

[@Levenstone132]

Says it all.

[@cyruscrawford4981]

2021(22 almost) and it's still Relevant!

[@mc98smusicmoviereviews93]

Basedest song ever.

[@yellolab09]

WOW. Thank you Thank you

[@JeffLemmon-kh4nm]

One of the best!

[@seagullpie]

absolutely outstanding!

[@TheSidFang]

Awesome video and performance. I've seen other videos, and seen him play it live a couple of times, but this one is the best rendition I've seen.

[@garysnow5054]

This is so profound. The media today would shit themselves, if it got played on the airwaves in today’s time.

[@kimsings]

Excellent indeed!!! Right on!! Sad, but so true.

[@mcclainmoredock4563]

James is a prophetic poet.

[@1953mel]

watching this again....

[@SUFFICIENCYtoLIBERTY]

Nod of approval, from deed in the Appalachia rust belt.

[@kdbadk]

masterpiece

[@jharv813]

Great tune bangin on the big fear...as I was studying geology it was stressed early on by a professor-"three things you can always count on--Death, Taxes, and Change..." Live in hopes lest ye die in despair...

[@leitatallman216]

If I wasn't already grown up & beaten down by life, I would aspire to testify like jmcmurtry...

[@AnastasiaKay1993]

Right on!

[@bobnpvine]

TRUTH to POWER... Great that there are singer-songwriters out there paying attention and recording (literally) what they are seeing... Glad to have met James some 25 years ago in a little know town of Waterford, Va, where he lived for a while... Wished I had more time to talk with him... No matter... Great to see folks writing about the real world... I'd recommend Mark Germino's "Rat and the Snake" (might be "Economics") for other songwriters who are standing up to the f'd up deal that most of us are suffering from... Bob

[@Lion862]

Very Nice. This is my own "personal" Occupy Anthem for me.

[@Evierambin]

That’s a tune right there, boys.

[@davidwhardinglll3568]

Man you nailed it Brother!

[@patricklabbe7888]

GREAT SONG!!!!

[@exploder69]

Part of me has felt like simple old folk music is tired, and then a song like this comes along, pierces me to the core, and shines a brighter light into the darkness than most anything I've heard in a awfully long time. Thank you James, you stoke a fire that needs to become an inferno.

[@SuperStrongbow1]

I know this is about the state of the great USA but here in the UK it's just as relevant, powerful thought provoking stuff, hats off.

[@georgebarry3153]

same policies

[@imarocka100]

love this guy, delivering the gritty shitty truth, through gritted angry teeth, "i can see 'em now they haunt my dreams all lilly white and squeeky clean.......even i get it and im in the uk

[@davidwhardinglll3568]

Punched me in the gut with that one brother....Some fucking gut level truth. Brutally honest, NO BULLSHIT. I fucking love it. Wake us all up. The plight of the American class that most of us are!

[@tonewall1]

great song and a damn good soundin 12 string...

[@hottunatony]

love this song! so true!!

[@chrisharrison9122]

brilliant!

[@bighouse6120]

Powerful stuff

[@mystmag7]

I propose that this be the new national anthem.

[@pugzig4me]

I "hate the men that sent our jobs away" too....great song.......

[@WhiteLakeDan]

Alternate title to this brutally lucid song: “The Death of the American Empire”.

[@Bert2368]

Sometimes the only thing that can tell the truth is a guitar. Woody knew that-

[@gogan3429]

What a great storyteller

[@alphapennsylvania9439]

Couldn't describe Altoona Pennsylvania and Tyrone Pennsylvania any better.

[@lumaz71]

straight to the heart....

[@deanswanton8727]

Can't wait for the show this Friday at the Biltmore in Vancouver. Sadly I don't think it's a given that he will play this song.

[@finepopmusic]

outstanding!

[@robertmcmurtry562]

I swear we’re related I have your last name, my father served in ww2 with his brother, there father my grandpa, who I never met served in ww1. And it took me a long time to wake up but know I see. And I’m willing to die for my faith in Jesus, and my family and this country. If it be Gods will.

[@sabretooth1hamster]

not at all what this song is about

[@stephenclarke6317]

James is pure class.Along with Chris Knight,Mary Gauthier,Chelle Rose.America is so lucky.

[@epistte]

This song should be played at noon on Labor Day the say they play Alice's restaurant on Thanksgiving day.

[@Dirtybird4life84]

Great song