Lucinda Williams - Full Performance (Live on KEXP)

KEXP.ORG presents Lucinda Williams performing live in the KEXP studio. Recorded February 11, 2015.
Songs:
East Side Of Town
West Memphis
Protection
It's Gonna Rain
Host: Kevin Cole
Audio Engineers: Cory Stone & Kevin Suggs
Cameras: Jim Beckmann, Shelly Corbett & Luke Knecht
Director: Justin Wilmore
Editor: Jim Beckmann
Photo thumbnail by Amber Knecht
kexp.org
lucindawilliams.com

[@GoffyDylan]

Once you get Lucinda Williams, you can't get enough Lucinda Williams. Sweet Old World is one of many places where you might start.

[@rustyfalcon1414]

When she talks she reminds me of Petty and Dylan. When she sings I just listen. Amazing artist.

[@jamesbradshaw3389]

How could you say something like that, But you are completely correct, I fully agree with you

[@StealthParrot]

Best songwriter on the planet. I can't imagine life without the songs of Lucinda Williams. Thank you Lucinda.

[@keithlacey9221]

I've been a huge fan for almost 40 years and I agree...with the exception that Jason Isbell has taken over that title.

[@StealthParrot]

@@keithlacey9221 Okay, I am not familiar with Jason Isbell, but that comment has definitely got my attention. Will check out.

[@keithlacey9221]

@@StealthParrot You wont regret it...he is incredible His 2013 album Southeastern is a masterpiece. His new album Reunions comes out Friday and promises to be just as good.

[@billgardner8297]

When I heard “Did an angel whisper in your ear And hold you close and take away your fear In those long last moments…” I knew, she’s got IT! What an amazing talent!

[@GoAway-lj7dj]

I can't argue with that. I bet almost no other songwriters would either.

[@deeann9066]

Lucinda, my sweet man went home about 6 years ago! Your music was so much apart of our love and life together! We lived in LA and traveled back and forth from LA to Phoenix many times to visit our family.......and it was Lucinda all the way there and back! Thank you for the best memories ever❤️

[@solarnaut]

:-) thanks for sharing that … bittersweet is sweet.

[@lastnamefirst4035]

That drive on I10 is so flat, straight and dull. Helps alot to have good music on the trip

[@gailremp8389]

Those of us that love Lucinda Williams know Lucinda Williams loves that we love her. Sometimes the real real popular people aren't that good. And sometimes the quiet ones are just fucking fantastic. I love this.

[@peteralmquist2806]

First saw Lucinda in 88, still in love.

[@sassafraspaul7528]

Love her voice. She definitely touches my soul!!

[@steveclinton4084]

Hello Paul how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@lastrada52]

Hey, all you female diva vocalists out there who all sound the same despite great voices and need fifty dancers surrounding them -- this is what someone who is a total original, doesn't sing absolutely perfectly but has that reality in her voice, sounds like. This is not a singer...this is an extraordinary artist. No lasers, no smoke machines, just musicians who can play excellently. That's all Lucinda ever needs and she does the rest. She keeps the tradition of what rock represents as an exciting genre. And in her hands -- it's alive and well. Thanks, KEXP -- great showcase.

[@keepitsimple947]

John LaStrada lighten up, it’s entertainment for goodness sake...it’s not religion.

[@billhunt4539]

Well said sir...

[@andyskiles9542]

Actually, for some people it is religion. Why don't you heavy up and look at it through that lens...for goodness sake.

[@monicasojka2738]

Exactly!!!

[@keithmarch980]

yeah shut it ted @@monicasojka2738

[@MegaFrank41]

saw her in Ann Arbor... she and the band were super.... great sound; great choice of songs; at 63 she is just hammering it for 3 1/2 hours.... incredible... I love her... always have; always will.... poet at heart... songwriter in her blood; put one hell of a show together with just 3 other band members.... would see her and her band every night if I could....

[@charlotteburger7479]

She's so f+++ing awesome. Her career is amazing...super prolific artist. She's completely amazing. Thanks Lucinda for contributing so much of yourself through the years.

[@jungle.jezebel]

So prolific!!! Incredible.

[@jamesbradshaw3389]

Stop fecking swearing, but yes you are completely fecking right

[@MarkS5588]

Lucinda is so special. Never fails to amaze me with her voice/lyrics/music and just a rarified coolness.

[@matthewlacey5307]

she's as cool as fuck

[@MrDuboce]

she;s spectacular

[@king-bb6236]

She has a rock soul...I think.

[@shadeydude6678]

She’s a true, true, true artist....

[@sbingham1979]

God. These musicians are so ON IT. Add to that the undeniable wonder of Lucinda Williams' heartfelt singing and songwriting. This is superb.

[@BuckRogers2000]

To me, Lucinda is one of the greats!!

[@Dirtydan23]

Wow her band is insane

[@squirrelcovers6340]

Tight

[@arlenesheffield1136]

You know it Dirtydan23.

[@waynej2608]

The acoustics seem conducive to good sound. But, yeah, they're real impressive. 👍

[@mtease9247]

Who would think I’d hear such musical talent along with conversation about Lucinda’s family & friends which influenced her music. Didn’t think I could ever be part of her speaking of influences. Thanks Lucinda, her band mates, and KXP Seattle from an avid fan who loves & listens to her music almost daily. Seeing her smile when conversing with the interviewer as he mentioned her accolades/ achievements made me smile & I feel as though I got to know her a bit too! ❤ Such raw talent she & her band have 🎶🎤🎸🥁🪇

[@delewan]

Lucinda, you're a treasure.

[@andymelendez9757]

Lucinda is sooo GREAT. In the 90s she and her friends would show up at the restaurant just before closing. We HAD to serve them! Seriously how could we not…..

[@Audfile]

holy shit this great.

[@timlashley5770]

lucinda is all about the soul of life thanks for the great music

[@daveco1270]

Love Lucinda, she sounds great. That drummer is amazing. I remember when he started out back in the day with The Eels.

[@LiberTBo]

Lucinda's had the hard pack of songwriting for a dozen and a half years now.I'veloved her best since "Car wheels on a gravel road" back in 1998..!!!

[@rosiefisher9904]

Lucinda has gotten me through some good and horribly bad times times in my life. She's one of the greatest out there, writer, singer, and her presence is just incredible. Thanks, Lu for everything 🌹

[@jamesbowie2703]

I know what you are saying! the lady rocks!!

[@kathrynmccreary5703]

Oh, Lucinda, thank you again. You have been the artist I love to hear for years. This morning I was in a cafe, raining outside, and a dim sound from the speakers brought your wonderful voice to me. I wanted the volume up, but even though it was so dim I knew the song and could hear your singing in my mind. I never tire of your work.

[@steveclinton4084]

Hello Kathy how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@nancystark9286]

@@steveclinton4084 Dude. you're an a-hole. These personal messages to people you don't even know are totally inappropriate.

[@kristinannetaylor]

This is so fabulous, what a great find! I saw her the week before up here in Portland with this lineup. She is so endearing, so insightful, so humble. God I love Lu. And WOW, what a band. xoxoxox

[@williamrolls4504]

Hello friend, how are you doing today?

[@steveclinton4084]

Hello Kristina how are you doing hope you having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@benmercadante5774]

She maintains that level of artistry few ever see...

[@rebeccamay6046]

What's so great about her? Character! Personality! On top of her unique voice and skills, the latter being gifts; she nonetheless deserves so much credit for her dedication and work, still coming across as modest and grateful to her audiences. Still more to admire!

[@steveclinton4084]

Hello Rebecca how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@steveedwards7984]

Nobody reaches down into those crevices of the soul like Lucinda.

[@percettecarl]

Great choice asking her to sing "Protection" Kevin !

[@williamrolls4504]

Hello friend, how are you doing today?

[@gailremp8389]

I had never heard protection. This CD came out at about the time my mom died. And I was up to my butt in all things that have to do with when your mom dies. I have the poster that I got at Park Ave., CDs of the spirit which is the brown pair but I never bought the CD. But now I will have to. Everyone take care of yourselves. We have to fight the enemy of rock 'n' roll and the enemy of soul. And that doesn't even count all the other enemies. Gail in Central Florida Sunday, June 27, 2021

[@BigRapDaddy]

Glad I stayed home on a snowy MA night and found this sound and music.

[@DanielinLaTuna]

Lucinda, the songs you sing, the voice that carries so much emotion, makes me want to hold you and comfort you; but the sadness that you carry makes me want to flee. I don't think I could bear the weight. Blessings

[@meldchislett8588]

Lucinda...you grow on us like a fine wine. Love your songs and your style.

[@funwithFred]

You are wonderful, Lucinda!!! Wonderful! So talented.....

[@CCPAGAL]

Lucinda Loved you from the first time I heard you and I survive on Happy Women Blues!

[@MichaelSeanHarrell]

she started singing...I began weeping...in a good way.

[@celticwitan]

She is so great

[@melissawells3460]

I love her music. She took & did what she wanted with her music. She’s played with some big ppl🌹🌹🌹

[@jacquelineelsner2146]

When Tom Petty does a cover of her song - that speaks volumes.

[@steveclinton4084]

Hello Melissa how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@marcelwave1158]

Big people have played with her!

[@geetoad7726]

Love this woman's voice; she's a real angel! First heard her sing: "Gentle on my Mind"... definitely worth it!

[@DrewTownson66]

How does she just keep getting better and better? Amazing. Love that SG Special, too.

[@christopherosse9176]

This is where the "Holy" meets the "Spirit" and lets the "Angel"sing ..........Lucinda at her majestic best .....

[@rubi.1981]

I found Lucinda by a chance watching a movie Free State of Jones and fell in love with her right alway!!! The lirycs, music, voice, band are so fresh and amazing! I'm a new fan.

[@kristienmariepetersen]

My favorite for many years.

[@ogenmatic]

She continues to make beautiful music... Excellent band - good job, KEXP

[@danarzechula3769]

I like the host

[@joncourt6179]

So excited to see her in Portsmouth this summer!! Lucinda is Rock and Roll to the bone.

[@2020NTG]

Thanks Lucinda & KEXP. That was special!

[@joselitosiqueiradesouza2696]

Simply the best, love

[@roykennethlande3171]

Tnx for the voice of America ,the best out there

[@allenhadden1097]

Saw her opening for Neil Young back in 04' in Lowell,Mass.Became an INSTANT fan,Have loved and treasured her EVER since!How could you not????

[@sharpedgedguy]

Wow. Standing on the edge of darkness ..., it's gonna rain. Glad to have someone get dismally depressed for me, so I don't have to. Great music Lucinda !

[@devinmillermedia]

She is an American treasure. Not too many people you can say that about. Love you, Lucinda!

[@barryspeight6109]

A great artist that I'm just discovering. I thought I knew most of them at 63. Where was I. That double album she's talking about is superb. Her music is amazing. I always thought she was very sultry and sexy. A deep soul. Her singing and phrasing are an instrument in itself.

[@kevinkeller8844]

Omg is that good. Lucinda at her best and the band is really good.

[@marknapiewocki8372]

I also saw her both nights in Ann Arbor. WOW is all I can say.

[@irisgarza1981]

One of my favorites. Greatly talented lady. It's like she's my little secret and every once and a while someone proves themselves worthy and I share her music with them. Love her voice. A genuine talent.

[@j1thom]

Just saw them last night in St. Paul. Stunning show. 3+ hours of pure bliss.

[@molonlabe28]

I'm seeing her in concert tomorrow night.Can't wait.

[@vlewin1844]

Just discovered Lucinda recently. Where have I been????? She is amazing. Just bought 4 CDs and more to come. Going to see her on May 27 at Strawberry Music Festival in Grass Valley, CA. Thrilled!!!!!

[@WGBHMusic]

This is the real McCoy. Good stuff

[@billysaraod]

I started tonight listening to Nine Inch Nails, nirvana, Rammstein but yet again I find myself close to tears listening to t he stunning Lucinda williams

[@smwrbd]

Amazing isnt it?

[@morebsnstuf]

Lu is more Metal than most Metal. Fking treasure. 🤘🏽🖤🤘🏿

[@lastnickeldrifter]

One does have to wonder, just who are the total lemons who thumb down fabulous stuff like this??

[@anthonysalvati5868]

lastnickeldrifter Just what you said, total lemons. Lucinda is not everyone's cup of tea for sure, but if she isn't your cup, why bother to come here and comment. She sounds fantastic, going to see her tonight at a free concert on the New Haven Green in Connecticut, what a gift.

[@mikehooper2188]

lastnickeldrifter Most of the time I listen to Bluegrass music, I found this a couple weeks ago and have listened to EVERYTHING I can find on here of Lucinda at least twice. But if I had not liked for some reason I would have moved on and kept my opinion to my self.

[@lastnickeldrifter]

Indeed, well said there Michael.

[@FullFlavah]

Mike Hooper Lucinda Williams is sooo good. Nice to hear about someone just discover her. Car Wheels on a Gravel Road is one of my top 10 albums of all time.

[@Ldale11]

lastnickeldrifter Just a bunch of young jerkoffs who refuse to admit they enjoy someone of her age. They still think the best music is always made by their peer age group or a bit older. They probably listened to 10 seconds of one song and that was enough for their ADD generation to make an assessment.

[@jsnell126]

tight band! this is what country music should be.

[@sharylc]

I wouldn't call her necessarily country. Far mar than just one genre.

[@sealevelbear]

Southern music 🤠

[@patriciabannister2721]

Genre =Americana !

[@morebsnstuf]

This is Americana. The best of who we are. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@tonpol8628]

it's americana

[@billybobb7252]

Yeah she had me at Essence >>>

[@hapuna71]

Lucinda, you sing what reaches the heart of things. Thank you all so very much. I particularly loved “Its gonna rain”, it was perfect. Three acoustic/electric stringed instruments and great drumming. I especially love the hollow bodied bass guitar though. Resonant

[@kahunawife1]

She touches my soul, just saw her in concert again at Red Rocks last weekend...heaven on earth!

[@djroeable11]

Strong Songs, Real music , Great sounds ! Thanks you.. Lucinda and band

[@jacquiclark7417]

One of my favorite sets to watch of hers. Incredible talent across the band and Lucinda is surperitivley genuine and beautifully raw . So honest..such a rare thing these days ❤

[@scottgarvey3253]

Double album ?! We could have used a dozen and knowing Lucinda every track would have been stellar!

[@nov20five]

I come back to this every few months and never question myself on my choice...just an awesome performance that needs to be watched again and again.

[@wendymartin5816]

Yes, I so appreciate this. It's given me back my talent, to write songs, poetry. Just seeing this is a real inspiration to me and has giving me back my hope. Thanks so much for showing these amazing musicians and of course, Lucinda, what a great gift that she is in this life. Even with all the suffering, even with all the disappointments, in life, at least we have her, people like her, to carry on the tradition of truth, even in spite of all the rest. Blessings, hope, love, Windy Star from Apple Valley, CA

[@rootindogg]

She's a sweetheart

[@SPEEDBOATMANIAC410]

** They used to play her records 13-15 years ago all the time on our Annapolis (kinda underground) station and I always found myself drifting off to wherever she was in a lyric right friggin there. Awesome ! ... GOD Bless

[@76006linda]

Wow! Just hearing this band. I love Lucinda's voice and the band sounds so awesome. Love it

[@dwainfontenot8063]

She's great! She's from my hometown of Lake Charles La. She wrote and sang a song by that name that's really good! It's about a man She fell in love with long ago that loved this area and was from just across the border in Nacogdoches TX., but he told people he was from here because it felt like home to him! Years later he was in L.A. and took I'll and was in the Hospital and she heard about him and she hurried to L.A., but sadly he passed before she got to the Hospital! So sad!

[@hummkarr]

She's the realest deal since the last legendary Williams -- Hank.

[@pdquinlan]

Thanks KEXP for hosting this performance by my new favorite female songwriter singer.

[@mjones410]

Lucinda had me hooked when she covered the Schramms "Side of the Road" in 1989, and she is still just as great, thanks KEXP

[@rebeccahill9818]

+matt jones She wrote that song. They covered it.

[@ZGrrrl8]

+Rebecca Hill You know it's amazing how many songs of hers were played on the radio but...without her. I didn't discover Lucinda till 89/90 and bought her self-titled album, I think, w/ Passionate Kisses and a few days later I recognized it on the radio but the voice just did not sound like Lucinda. Of course, it wasn't. She wasn't popular enough for radio; I think it was a country singer who they played on pop radio. Anyway, yeah....SO MANY of her songs have been covered. (Sorry, didh't mean to ramble.) I just love Lucinda Williams. She's Amazing!

[@davidadams2395]

+Natalie Ogburn It was Mary Chapin Carter whom you heard on the radio. I also had Lucinda's debut and wondered why hers wasn't the version on the radio.

[@LiberTBo]

+David Adams That's Mary Chapin Carpenter brother!!!

[@davidadams2395]

+Terrance Hill My bad. I wasn't watching my typing carefully.

[@hwinc]

What a beautiful performance with great audio. Love, Lucinda, and -- hey, the bass player has on a Cain's Ballroom t-shirt -- my favorite venue in Tulsa, Oklahoma!

[@williamrolls4504]

Hello friend, how are you doing today?

[@steveclinton4084]

Hello gorgeous how are you doing hope you’re having a great time with your family may God bless you and your family

[@VoxJ]

Great guitar player.... and musicians!

[@sisteramator]

Robert Johnson III I been digging the musicians here, too! Very much.

[@eliadespastor4305]

Robert Johnson III Yes lets hear it for Stuart Mathis !!

[@honesty1234]

The the guitar player is a musician goofball

[@s.g.1639]

Where have I been... just discovered Lucinda Williams! song.. Sweet Side brought me here..

[@margaretdennis3025]

you've got some catching up to do

[@JoeyMayo]

I met her after a show in a NYC park with Roseanne Cash. I asked her if I could get a hug and she said "sure" so I gave her a squeeze. A real sweet and intelligent woman.😊

[@akumwalling]

Just Amazing! great songs and wonderful performance

[@jeromepudwill]

Whatta tight band! Big tip of the hat to Stuart Mathis on lead guitar - nothing flashy, just deadly, slinky, glorious riffs. Killer stuff.

[@ValveWrench]

Lucinda is the bomb....Righteous Reality and soul purveyor every time.

[@tchrisou812]

What a talent in so many ways

[@LynnHenderson]

Genius with her very own Genre. Would SO love to see her live.

[@margaretdennis3025]

she's great

[@DateTwoRelate]

So right. Saw her 2x in the last 20 years. Find her and see her. Make a difference in your life!

[@peacetrain3320]

Love you, Lucinda. Loved watching and listening since the early ‘80s.

[@francitron_art_3]

I just Love her music forever :)

[@Whatsthedealman]

AUTHENTIC! Music and person herself. Truly a gift for the soul.

[@benjaminthompson5747]

it rained sweet water down my cheeks. Grateful that this set was a free experience

[@plunka5]

Lucinda and her band....great as always, how could you not love her music and words??? :)

[@WurTheDopeAtBoy]

this is a great performance by a relatively under appreciated artist. people who are into classic country will know who she is but music like this is completely lost with the modern country music crowd. a real shame.. but oh well it's their loss!

[@michellerjackson5776]

Andrew Southern Agree!!

[@patriciabannister2721]

This genre is Americana. Like Tom Waitts and John Prine.

[@sirdouglas2010]

One of the very best! Love you Lucinda. Check out her interview with Marc Maron's WTF podcast. He gets her giggling and it's so sweet.

[@MarkJVSomers]

love the drummer !

[@bjmurr6309]

This gal sings the truth of life.

[@kennethohmert3128]

I don't know where I've been, but I'm a new fan. What an excellent vocalist and song writer. I use to love music, but stopped listening for years.... Heard a song by her in a movie and I was compelled to search her out.

[@edsonbrock8502]

Saw you at the Varsity in Baton Rouge about 20 years ago. Been lovin' you ever since. Please come back! Thanks KEXP for this.

[@tommythompsonsurfer]

DAMN GREAT......LIFE IS COURAGE AND A PHYSICAL BEATING!!!! LUCINDA...PLEASE LAST AS I CAN SEE YOU !!!! MUSIC SPECIALS......BLESSINGS!!

[@lastname6584]

Have been lucky to see Lucinda and band several times. The guitar player is in the top 98 percentile of players I've seen.

[@georgegoldberg4211]

I'm reading her autobiography. It is just amazing. 😊

[@michaelwhite8849]

been waiting to see lucinda for over 20 years..never been close..finally May 2nd 2017 Victoria Theatre Dayton Ohio..can not wait! missed her with Amos Lee in Cincy..another amazing singer songwriter

[@christophercasey6775]

Imagine Lucinda meets up with Robert Pollard. That would be epic.

[@chrislrenaud]

Great low-key performaces, tasty guitar. It's great to see a the Gibson SG in a country context.

[@kristinannetaylor]

+Aud film Very tasty guitar...I don't really classify Lucinda as country, although there is certainly that influence. Blues, rock, all of it!