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Justin Townes Earle performs in The Current studios

Justin Townes Earle
Justin Townes EarleMPR Photo / Nate Ryan
  Play Now [21:13]

by Bill DeVille and Justin Townes Earle

February 18, 2011

Singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle--son of Steve Earle, stepson of Alison Moorer, named after Townes van Zandt--might as well be alt-country royalty. However, Earle has blazed a distinct path from his biological and musical forbears, often incorporating more traditional country, folk and Americana elements into his sound and forging a unique lyrical voice.

Although he's only 29 years old, Earle has toured extensively, performed at several prominent festivals as well as many legendary folk and country venues, played alongside some of the biggest names in Americana and released four albums on the Chicago indie label Bloodshot records. His most recent, "Harlem River Blues," was released last fall.

Songs performed: "Harlem River Blues," "Automobile Blues" and "Slippin' And Slidin'."