Robert Earl Keen Talks About the Importance of a Good Audience, Being a Legend, Songwriting + More in an Exclusive Interview

Robert Earl Keen's contribution to music has been immeasurable over his 30-year career. His own music has earned the Houston-native and Texas Aggie legendary status all by itself, but his influence on the current generation of musicians makes Keen an icon. With a long-overdue visit to Abilene later this week (7/5), Robert took time to visit with the KEAN Afternoon Show to talk about the show, his music, writing, and pretty much anything else.

The first portion of my conversation with REK discussed his first visit to the Abilene area in "It seems like a coon's age, as they say...I have some really good friends (in Abilene) and some of them are coming out to see me...I do like the idea of catching up with old friends and family." He talked about his latest CD, 'Ready For Confetti' and how he's glad with its success. "It did really well", says Keen, "particularly the song 'I Gotta Go' was picked up by numerous people and it's one of those songs that I can play from Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon and as soon as you start it, everybody knows it and starts singing along...That song, in my world, would be considered a smash hit.". Take a listen:

Part two of my interview with Robert addressed his comfort level when he's called a "legend". He states, "I think in terms of legends as pretty iconic, almost untouchable people. I'd like to think of myself a little bit more of a man of the people, but I certainly appreciate it.". Keen also talked about the process he goes through when he goes to writing songs for a new album, including a visit to a place known as 'The Scriptorium'.

The final portion of my interview with REK included talking about his work ethic and the effect he has had on showing the next generation that hard work can pay off. He states, "I believe that music is a true vocation and that you need to work at it. There's a big, big, big big 'luck factor' in success in music, but there's also a real solid groundswell of an ability to make a real good living at music and really enjoy it at the same time.". Keen also managed to humor the clown interviewing him, by proudly admitted that the road does indeed go on forever, and the party truly does never end. Check out part 3 of my conversation with Robert Earl Keen:

After 30 years in the business, Robert Earl Keen has my attention as much as ever, and I can't wait to hear whatever new songs he comes up with in the 'Scriptorium' next! Come to find out, he's also a terrific guy to have a conversation with, and someone you need to see in concert at least once in your lifetime.