Happy Father's Day! As I move into a new abode, I am spending a lot of time thinking about my husband Robert, the father of my son, who passed three years ago. I am living with rich memories which seem to bombard me more this time of year. It reminds me of when we met in LA, where he was perpetually in shorts with tan legs in the sunshine. He was a guy with a big heart who would do anything to help others. There is the expectation of fearlessness to being a man in our society. The protector, the explorer, the anchor; whether one feels these things, or has to dig down deep to bring them forth. Men just bite the bullet and get it done.
Justin Rutledge's fourth CD, The Early Widows, just came out a few weeks ago. On it, he pulls the curtain back a bit on the emotional terrain, peering into the dark corners. Justin is resolute in his songwriting and delivery, this is moody stuff, sparse and haunting. We bring you the song "Be a Man." It's an interesting documentary-style video, in which the events leading up to his performance provide punctuation to the song. Conquer your fears and drink deep.
This Father's Day we wish you a long, healthy, and happy life with your family.
- Jessie Scott