Be HIP

“My students and others often ask me what Americana music is. To me, it’s a beautiful reflection of each artist’s unique personality in music… emotions that cry out from the deepest part of someone’s soul… never contrived… free and authentic in every way. But even that doesn’t really explain it. You have to experience it to understand.” — Chuck Whiting (Every time I attend an event at the Americana Fest, I can describ e the meaning of Americana music a little bit better. But I still fall short. That’s because an understanding of this refreshingly real and emotional art form is beyond words. Last night, my fellow writer and I had the opportunity to take in five musical sets in a row at the Hutton. It was very cold in the lounge, and our bodies wanted to leave by the end of the third act. But the incredible performances kept us glued to our seats… shivering, but grooving, too. There were acoustic sets and full-band sets; thought-provoking balladeers; an upbeat band that bordered on rock;...