I’ve been putting off telling this story, but as we’re very close to time, and new horrors have occurred, the time to tell is now.
So, a few months back I realized that the lovely, wonderful Gillian Welch was coming to the Ryman in Nashville. This particular performance was in support of the always-interesting Connor Oberst and whatever supporting people he’s calling Bright Eyes. I’m generally a fan of the Bright Eyes and dig the idea of catching them live, but let’s be honest here, it was Gillian at the Ryman. I was so there.
Me, the wife, and my newfound friend Holly procured tickets faster than you can say, “Slap me silly with a ping-pong table.”
Those who know me know my undying love for the lovely, wonderful Gillian Welch and that I have unfortunately missed her last two performances in Bloomington. My soul weeps to this very day due to this fact. I swore a blood oath that I would never miss another Gillian Welch concert. I’d gouge out my eyes rather than do such a thing.
Fast forward a few weeks and I get an e-mail from the good people at the Kentucky Center in Louisville of upcoming events. Turns out a local radio station is doing a listener appreciation thing with Charlie Louvin, Suzanne Vega, Paula Cole, and Ryan freaking Adams. Tickets are $20.
I don’t think, I don’t breathe, I call and purchase three tickets. I anticipate the excitement from Holly who will totally freak out and worship me for days.
As the ticket seller is wrapping up, I get a funny feeling in my belly. The show date is May 19, which suddenly sounds familiar. When are we to see Gillian at the Ryman?
May 19.
No. Freaking. Way.
I have now just purchased tickets (ahem, three tickets) to see Ryan Adams in Louisville on the same date I have tickets to see Gillian in Nashville.
The wife is called in, and the phone is called to Holly. We all cry out.
After days and weeks, we finally decide to see Ryan. Frankly, I was outnumbered, but the consolidation was that Gillian lives in Nashville. Holly lives in Nashville. We’ll catch her some other time.
I’m sorry Gillian. Truly, truly I am. The eyes are being gouged this very second.
Breathe. Feel bad for a moment. Stop listening to Gillian and throw in a little Heartbreaker followed by Gold followed by Cold Roses.
Ryan Adams, here we come!
An interesting, heartbreaking addendum just occurred to this story. Holly sends me an e-mail explaining that the White Stripes will be playing a fairly limited (though she can get tickets) show in Nashville the Friday before Gillian/Bright Eyes/Ryan.
I know it’s you, Gillian, teaching me a lesson. I have learned. Please forgive.
Another heartbreaking newsflash just happened. Ryan has apparently hurt his arm and cannot play guitar for our show. Gillian, I said I had learned, please stop tormenting me!
themidnightcafe.org 
Sorry, Mat, I’d have picked Nashville if I’d been you. Still, have a good trip and a great concert.
Do you know Spooked, the album Gillian made with the divine Robyn Hitchcock? I know it’s more Robyn than Gillian, but still a very satisfying bit o’ music.
I’m just catching up here — you’re in Bloomington? I’ve done time in Bloomington…
Ok, see I was out numbered. The other Holly is a die hard Ryan Adams fan. Seriously, the girl is nut-so about him. Then the wife chimed in that she’d rather not have such a long drive to Nashville. I tried to preach Gillian but they had nothing of it.
Actually it was a long debate, but ultimately I lost out. Now with the Stripes, and just learning Ryan hurt his arm and can’t play guitar, I think Gillian has cursed me.
Yes, I am in Bloomington, though not originally, and hopefully for not much longer.
PS I dig your writing and your blog. I know I’m a terrible commenter, but I do read and enjoy.
Pingback: PressPosts / User / sigridandemil / Submitted