From Texas Playboys to Nashville: The Musical Journey of Amanda Shires

Texas-born singer-songwriter Amanda Shires' newest album, "Loving You," pays homage to the rich heritage of Texas music.

The album features classic covers recorded with the late Bobbie Nelson, sister to Willie Nelson.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Now living in Nashville with her family, Shires feels a solid obligation to conserve the traditional music of Texas.

Given their limited presence on modern streaming platforms, she fears many of these older tunes might be forgotten without updated recordings.

Shires' roots in music extend back to her early years when she played the fiddle for the Texas Playboys, a renowned Texas Swing band. She performs in her husband Jason Isbell's band and is a co-founder of the country supergroup, The Highwomen.

Her latest album, "Loving You," was finished following the passing of Nelson at age 91, a process that presented both an honor and a challenge for Shires.

Additionally, she stars in an HBO documentary that follows her husband's production of the album "Reunions," detailing their life during the COVID-19 pandemic and their intricate marriage dynamics.

Moreover, Shires is an accomplished poet, with a master's degree in poetry from Sewanee.

She also doesn't shy away from expressing her support for abortion rights, urging her colleagues in Nashville to voice their stance on the topic.

Her concise review for her own album states, "Heartbreaking. Hopeful. Three tequilas. Master pianist."

Let me know what you think at nico@klaq.com