The celebrated singer-songwriter talks with us about the calming benefits of Tai Chi and the traditional country sound of his new album.
For Jim Lauderdale, the much-admired master of country, bluegrass and Americana, some Tai Chi each day keeps the stress and blues away. And, better still, nourishes his creative spirit.
The celebrated singer-songwriter enjoyed several moments of zen when he warmed up for his latest album — his 35th! — by going to a songwriting retreat in Louisiana. He feels the preparation helped contribute to the more traditional country sound of Game Changer, which will be available Friday everywhere you buy, stream or download music.
The delectable mix of Lauderdale’s smooth vocals, Telecaster riffs, steel pedal guitar and other tasty ingredients can be savored here on two outstanding cuts from Game Changer: “Friends Again” and “That Kind of Life (That Kind of Day).”
Lauderdale — whose songs have been recorded by such notables as George Strait, Blake Shelton, Patty Loveless and Elvis Costello — recently visited with us in the C&I Studio to talk about the release of Game Changer, his upcoming umpteenth appearance at the Grand Ole Opry, and how we all might benefit if we started listening to each other.