Lyle Lovett And Leo Kottke: In Conversation And Song

Doors: 6:00PM | Show: 7:00PM

Make plans for a night you’ll never forget when Lyle Lovett stops by the Kalamazoo State Theatre with special guest Leo Kottke for an evening of conversation and song on Wednesday, October 25.

About Lyle Lovett:

Lyle Lovett, an heir to Texas troubadours like Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt, made a profound impact on alternative country and Americana music. With his debut album in 1986 and its successor in 1987, Lovett showcased his incisive character studies, lyrical ballads, and dry wit, garnering critical acclaim and attracting a diverse audience beyond country music. His exploration of genres extended with the release of “Lyle Lovett & His Large Band” in 1989, where he incorporated swing and jump blues. Lovett’s popularity soared in the ’90s, crossing over to the adult-oriented pop realm with albums like “Joshua Judges Ruth” and “I Love Everybody,” while still maintaining a significant presence in the Americana and Texas country scenes.

Born and raised in Klein, Texas, Lovett discovered his passion for music while studying journalism and German at Texas A&M University. He performed at local folk festivals and clubs, gradually gaining recognition. His breakthrough came when Nanci Griffith recorded his song “If I Were the Woman You Wanted” in 1984. Signing with MCA/Curb, Lovett released his eponymous debut album in 1986, and his eclectic sound, blending jazz, folk, and pop elements with a country foundation, captivated listeners. Despite his shifting fan base, Lovett continued to push musical boundaries with albums like “Pontiac” and “Lyle Lovett and His Large Band,” solidifying his reputation as a singer/songwriter and earning accolades for his distinctive style. From collaborations and acting endeavors to a Grammy-winning country album and a recent reunion with His Large Band, Lovett’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of music.

About Leo Kottke:

Leo Kottke, the acclaimed acoustic guitarist, embarked on a musical journey shaped by a nomadic childhood across 12 different states. His early exposure to a diverse range of music, from classical to country-blues, led him to pick up the guitar at the age of 11, forsaking other instruments. After a stint in the Navy, Kottke settled in the Twin Cities area, where he found his place among renowned artists at Minneapolis’ Scholar Coffeehouse. His recording debut in 1968 with “Twelve String Blues” marked the beginning of a fruitful career.

Signing with John Fahey’s Takoma label, Kottke’s instrumental prowess earned him recognition and a deal with Capitol Records. Despite some clashes with label executives, he thrived during his tenure on Capitol, releasing albums like “Greenhouse” and “My Feet Are Smiling.” Kottke’s captivating guitar technique and collaborations with artists like Phish bassist Mike Gordon further solidified his reputation, attracting a devoted international following. With Grammy nominations and honors from prestigious institutions, Leo Kottke’s contributions to the world of music have left an indelible mark on the acoustic guitar landscape.