From a Small Town in Illinois

I've always been a sucker for singer/songwriters. I'm sure this comes from rummaging through my parent's old records when I was a kid, and even though I had no way to play them (yet), I still loved looking at them. That's when I first came across Bob Dylan, Neil Young and the true greats, which led me to seek them out on my own. I've been thinking a lot lately about the state of music, and the ever-changing industry. I wonder if the way we hear and discover music has changed so drastically that the amount of exposure given to a truly great songwriter is dwindling, and I'm not sure whether this is detrimental or liberating (probably both). Am I thinking too much? Am I thinking? Am I? All this rambling has a point. I promise.

This past weekend I saw Chicago Farmer for the fourth time, and it was once again a breath of fresh air. His performances and albums give hope that the songwriting craft is alive and well. You may just have to dig a little harder to find it. Chicago Farmer (real name Cody Diekhoff) grew up in the small town of Delavan, Illinois, eventually ending up in Chicago for a while (hence the name). I know comparisons to other artists can be like beating a dead horse, but his lyrics have the heartfelt, working man intelligence of Woody Guthrie, but you can't mistake his unique play on words that's all his own. Then there is his live show. One of those special experiences where the connection between performer and audience happens at the first stomp of Cody's boot (AKA immediately). You're either singing along and laughing, or sitting in silence listening to a slow, gentle song that can bring you to tears. Not to mention he's one of the most down to earth, genuine people you could hope to meet.

This clip is from the recent Chicago Farmer documentary, which I highly recommend watching if you get the chance. Or better yet, buy it.

Cody usually begins this next song by telling the story of how it's about his time working at Caterpillar..."I worked there five days. Never got a paycheck, but I got this song..."

And last, but not least. Here's a cover of one of my favorite Neil Young songs.

 

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