Shiner Sunday Monday – Billy Joe Shaver

Shiner Sundays at Love and War in Texas, Plano is one of the great Texas traditions.  It merges Texas food, music, drink (even the rootbeer is brewed in Austin), and weather.  Yesterday, the Missus and I experienced them all as we got there early to eat, and have a good spot for the original gangsta, Billy Joe Shaver.  After the opening act successfully navigated their way through a mix of covers and originals, the large crowd (that might have needed this) was clearly ready for Mr Shaver.  I spoke with the outlaw before the concert, and he said “its good to be here, actually its good to be anywhere, really”.  The themes of gratitude and the uncertainty of life mixed with humor was a constant one throughout his set.  He spoke often of his affection of Jesus Christ and the USA, as well as his sadness over the loss of his son to the abuse of heroin.  Each song, from “I’m gonna live forever” to “Honky Tonk Heroes” to “That’s what you said last night” showcased his range of tempo and sensibility.  As a veteran of many Shiner Sundays, I have seen many great artists give amazing performances for this well-informed and expressive crowd, on Sunday however, we were the students to Mr Shavers wise, old, well-traveled shaman of a teacher.