Lubbock on Everything: The Evocation of Place in Popular Music (A West Texas Example)

Abstract

Much has been written about the important role place can play in literature, the visual arts, and film, and the ways in which creative works can shape our views of particular places. Comparatively, however, little analysis has been conducted on the equally significant role geography can play in music. This study uses the recordings of three contemporary performers from West Texas-Joe Ely, Butch Hancock, and Terry Allen-as an example of the influence geography can have on music, and the ability of song to create strong images of place.