Jim White

Jim White is a Southern American singer-songwriter and guitarist. His music can be described as whacked out alternative country with an experimental feel.  White grew up in Florida surrounded by gospel music.  According to various sources, he has been a comedian, a fashion model, a boxer, a preacher, a professional surfer, and a New York cab driver. Before embarking on a music career, White attended film school.

He went through a period of depression and poverty after a bandsaw accident, which resulted in a maimed left hand, seemed to end White's hopes as a musician.  At a party organized by film school friends, White began to perform again.  After writing a collection of simple songs on his guitar, a friend convinced him to record a demo.

His live performances are often off-beat, blending his playlist with open discussion with the audience.  He is known for his insightful storytelling and humourous anecdotes.

He has collaborated with artists including Victoria Williams, Aimee Mann, Barenaked Ladies, and jazz guitarist Bill Frisell among others. 

Searching for the Wrong-Eyed Jesus is a 2004  documentary in which Jim White describes his idea of the rural South, where country music meets Christianity. This journey takes you through a very real contemporary Southern US, a world of marginalized white people and their unique and home-made culture.  He encounters like-minded musicians such as David Johansen, Lee Sexton, The Handsome Family, David Eugene Edwards of 16 Horsepower and  Johnny Dowd as well as some gospel churches.  Jim will be screening Searching for the Wrong-Eyed Jesus at the Calgary Folk Music Festival Boot Camp at the Plaza Theatre on July 27, 2012.  He will be in attendance for a live acoustic performance and Q & A.

Jim is also a visual artist with some whimsical and cynical pieces.

White continues to create extraordinary, eclectic music with Where It Hits You, released earlier this year.  Here he talks about some of the songs.

OK, here I go.

OK, here I go.  This is going to be a music blog.  I have been following new music for years and hopefully, this will help me document and organize my ears.  The name "Diamonds To Coal" was pinched from a Jim White record, "Transnormal Skiperoo".  Jim has been on my mind because he is appearing at the 2012 Calgary Folk Music Festival.  In fact, not only is he appearing, but he is doing a special lecture at the Folk Boot Camp, held at the National Music Centre (formerly Cantos) space on 11th Ave SE in Calgary from July 24 - 26.

Actually, the Calgary Folk Music Festival is a good place to start.  Let's talk about the bands slated to appear this summer.  The festival runs from July 26 - 29, 2012.  There are 67 acts ranging from solo performers to large ensembles.  Don't let the word "folk" put you off.  This is world class music of many different genres which has a very broad appeal.  There is support for local musicians and the festival draws performers from around the world.  At times during this festival, 6 stages are happening simultaneously so the more informed you are, the better you can choose.

Here is Jim White.

Next post:  On to the music!