Whiskeytown's Long and Winding Road: A Loser's Tale in American Music

Ryan Adams: Losering, a Story of Whiskeytown (American Music Series)

by David Menconi

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1188 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Whiskeytown's story is a fascinating one, filled with both promise and heartbreak. The band's music was critically acclaimed, but they never achieved commercial success. They broke up in 1999, but reunited in 2013. This article explores Whiskeytown's history, their music, and their legacy.

The Early Years

Whiskeytown was formed in 1994 in Raleigh, North Carolina. The band's original lineup consisted of Ryan Adams (vocals, guitar),Caitlin Cary (vocals, guitar),Phil Wandscher (bass),and Eric "Skillet" Gilmore (drums). Adams and Cary were the main songwriters, and their music was a mix of alt-country, Americana, and rock.

Whiskeytown's debut album, Faithless Street, was released in 1995. The album was a critical success, and it was named one of the best albums of the year by several publications. However, the album did not sell well, and Whiskeytown remained a relatively obscure band.

Broken Arrow

Whiskeytown's second album, Broken Arrow, was released in 1998. The album was even more critically acclaimed than Faithless Street, and it was nominated for a Grammy Award. However, the album again failed to sell well, and Whiskeytown's commercial prospects seemed bleak.

In 1999, Whiskeytown broke up. Adams went on to have a successful solo career, while Cary and Wandscher formed the band The Cardinals. Gilmore continued to play drums for various artists.

Reunion

In 2013, Whiskeytown reunited for a series of shows. The reunion lineup consisted of Adams, Cary, Wandscher, and Gilmore, as well as new member Amy Dolenz (violin, vocals). The band toured extensively in 2013 and 2014, and they released a new album, Phonograph, in 2015.

Legacy

Whiskeytown's legacy is complex. They were a critically acclaimed band who never achieved commercial success. However, their music has had a lasting impact on American music. Adams went on to have a successful solo career, and his music has been praised by critics and fans alike. Cary and Wandscher have also had successful careers in music, and Gilmore has continued to be a sought-after drummer.

Whiskeytown's story is a reminder that commercial success is not always a measure of an artist's worth. The band's music is still loved by many fans, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

Recommended Listening

• "16 Days"
• "Horse Heaven"
• "Jacksonville City Nights"
• "Broken Arrow"
• "Somebody Remembers the Rose"

Ryan Adams: Losering, a Story of Whiskeytown (American Music Series)

by David Menconi

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1188 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE