Artist · EveryDisc catalogue

Townes Van Zandt

Townes Van Zandt (John Townes Van Zandt, March 7, 1944 — January 1, 1997) is an American country and folk singer-songwriter. As a performer, Van Zandt had limited success — he never hit the Billboard charts, was published on small labels, and performed in modest clubs and coffee shops accompanied by his own guitar. Throughout his career, he was also accompanied by personal problems — the artist battled depression, alcohol, and drug addiction. At the same time, he was widely recognized as one of the best country and folk performers of his generation. Continuing the traditions of traveling musicians like Woody Guthrie and Ramblin' Jack Elliott, he led a nomadic lifestyle, but had the status of a cult figure and unquestionable authority among other songwriters. His strong influence on their own work was emphasized by Guy Clark, Lyle Lovett, Steve Earle, Rodney Crowell, Nanci Griffith, and many others.