Shake Russell at Susanna’s Kitchen

Troubadours Shake Russell and Michael Hearne have entertained listeners for more than five decades. In recent years, the two have often teamed up for songwriting and concerts. They bring their unique talents and craftmanship to Susanna’s Kitchen on September 19.

A Texas-based songwriter, Shake has written or co-written hundreds of tunes. Songs of his have been used in film soundtracks and recorded by Ricky Scaggs, Clint Black, and Waylon Jennings among others. Weaving evocative lyrics and harmonies with deft word-smithing in a folkrock style uniquely his, the warmth and richness of Shake Russell’s voice brings its own magic to an evening of music. Legendary bassist Chad Watson said of him, “Shake Russell, like Mark Twain or Guy Clark, has the gift of making us think and feel deeply at the same time.”

Hearne, a songwriter, picker, and performer, is based out of his adopted home of Taos, New Mexico. During the ‘80s Hearne’s musical talents led to touring and recording in Michael Martin Murphey’s band. He has penned songs for Jerry Jeff Walker, Gary P. Nunn, country music legend Johnny Rodriguez, and his aunt and uncle Bill and Bonnie Hearne. He has also co-written songs with many others and has recorded numerous albums both with his band South by Southwest (a band name that pre-dated the annual Austin event of the same name), with family and friends, and as a solo artist.

With many miles behind him and countless stages beneath his feet, it is his signature soundon the guitar and what Eliza Gilkyson described as a “whiskey velvet voice” that has amassed him a dedicated and ever-growing fan base. Since 2003, Hearne has been hosting his Big Barn Dance Music Festival in Taos, now a three-day event drawing musicians and music lovers from across the country each year.

Last year the two artists released a live album they recorded at the Wildflower Arts and Music Festival in Richardson, TX, Shake Russell & Michael Hearne with Mike Roberts: LIVE (2018). An earlier collaboration, Only As Strong As Your Dreams, was released in 2016.

Don’t miss Shake Russell and Michael Hearne September 19 at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, located at Wimberley United Methodist Church (corner RR 12 & CR 1492). The concert starts at 7:30, and doors open by 7:00 p.m. Pizza, tamales, pie, coffee, and soft drinks are available. Tickets are sold at the door ($25 for adults’ admission, $5 for kids (under 18). Proceeds benefit The Barnabas Connection, Operation Good Shepherd, Camp Good Sam Wimberley, and Bright Beginnings Preschool.