Telluride. The word conjures up clean, breathable air, and pine trees majestically towering over the steep terrain. You gotta remember, I live in Texas now, and summer has descended upon us in a big way! Telluride also has this amazing Americana commitment. There are festivals planned all summer long. First up is the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, which starts on June 17th. Then on August 13th, you have the Rocky Mt. Folks Festival.

Smack dab in the middle, July 21st to 24th, it's the Americana Music Weekend at the Historic Sheridan Opera House in Telluride. You might have noticed their ad on our website. If you haven't clicked on it, then you don't know 'bout this sweet deal! And there is an added bonus, now, as the Telluride Mountain Village Owners Association, which puts on free Sunset Concerts in the Mountain Village on Wednesday evenings in the summer, has announced that its July 21st guest will be Corey Harris. That will be immediately followed by the VIP party with Darden Smith. Then, on Thursday, July 22nd, it's a Song Swap featuring Amanda Shires, Rod Picott, Stacey Earle, and Mark Stuart. Friday, July 23rd brings you Jason Eady and The Band of Heathens, and on Saturday, July 24th it's Sam Baker and Joe Ely. Beans and I are going! You should too! We can caucus in the high mountain air for some sweet times with great music. Summer camp, indeed.

So let's get you some Joe Ely, as inspiration!!! This is Billy Joe's "Live Forever" recorded in front of an avid audience at Threadgill's during SXSW in March. I am counting the days 'til Telluride!

- Jessie Scott