Dwight Yoakam, a pivotal force in the rockabilly revival and a defining voice in country music, is celebrating his illustrious early career with a special RSD release from Rhino Records that encapsulates his formative years. The new limited edition box set, titled The Beginnings And Then Some: The Albums of The ’80s, features his first three groundbreaking albums, including his career-defining debut Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc. This meticulously curated collection not only presents the original albums on both vinyl and CD but also enriches Yoakam’s musical narrative with thirteen rarities and demos from the 1980s. Each track in this collection tells a part of the story of how Yoakam evolved from a fresh-faced musician into a country music legend, offering fans and newcomers alike a detailed map of his rise to stardom.
Dwight Yoakam’s debut album Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc. released in 1986, stands as a seminal piece in the neo-traditionalist movement of country music. The album opens with the twang of the title track “Honky Tonk Man,” which sets the tone for a collection that skillfully blends elements of honky-tonk and bluegrass with Yoakam’s smooth, emotive vocals. Each track resonates with a heartfelt nostalgia and a defiant appreciation for classic country sounds, making it clear that Yoakam was not just revisiting the past but revitalizing it with his unique style. The album also showcases Yoakam’s depth as a songwriter and a musician. Songs like “Heartaches by the Number” and “It Won’t Hurt” are meticulously crafted, featuring compelling lyrics that paint vivid stories of love and loss, while the cover of Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” is both a tribute and a fresh, distinctive take. Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc. not only launched Yoakam’s career but also helped reinvigorate traditional country music, appealing to both purists and a new generation of listeners looking for authenticity in a rapidly evolving musical landscape. This debut remains a powerful testament to Yoakam’s enduring influence in the genre.
Dwight Yoakam’s second studio album, Hillbilly Deluxe, released in 1987, solidifies his role as a torchbearer of honky-tonk music while expanding his reach into the heart of country rock. Hit singles like “Little Ways” and “Little Sister” pulsate with a raw energy that captures the essence of country’s golden age, yet are delivered with a modern flair that was particularly resonant during the late 80s. What sets Hillbilly Deluxe apart is not just its sonic quality but also its lyrical depth. Yoakam explores themes of love, loneliness, and escapism with an authenticity that resonates deeply with the listener. The standout track, “Please, Please Baby,” combines heartfelt lyrics with an upbeat tempo, creating a paradoxically cheerful backdrop to tales of romantic strife. Throughout the album, Yoakam maintains a fine balance between up-tempo tracks and poignant ballads, crafting a work that appeals to both the feet and the heart. Hillbilly Deluxe is a testament to Yoakam’s skill as a musician and a songwriter, marking a pivotal moment in his career and in the evolution of contemporary country music.
Buenas Noches From a Lonely Room, released in 1988, is one of Dwight Yoakam’s most poignant and artistically rich albums. This record dives deep into the darker corners of heartache and revenge, with Yoakam’s evocative storytelling taking center stage. The album is famously known for its raw, emotional intensity, particularly exemplified in songs like the haunting title track and the chilling murder ballad “Streets of Bakersfield,” where Yoakam duets with his idol, Buck Owens. The album’s narrative prowess is matched by its musical excellence. Tracks like “I Sang Dixie” and “Hold On to God” showcase his ability to convey profound sorrow and resilience, making the listener not only hear but feel the stories being told. The instrumentation, featuring fiddles, pedal steel, and acoustic guitars, complements Yoakam’s sharp, twangy vocals, creating a rich, textured soundscape. Buenas Noches From a Lonely Room captures the essence of traditional country while proving Yoakam’s versatility and depth as an artist, making it a landmark album in his career and in the genre.
The fourth LP in the box is titled So Forth & So On and mainly consists of demo versions of songs from 1981 that were included in the expanded edition of Guitar, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc. released in 2006. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the early creative process of an artist poised to redefine the country music landscape. These demos, characterized by their raw and unpolished feel, highlight Yoakam’s authentic sound and the foundational elements that would later be refined into the polished tracks of the original album. The stripped-back arrangements and less produced sound provide a more intimate listening experience, where Yoakam’s distinctive voice and guitar work take center stage. There’s a palpable sense of immediacy and urgency in these recordings, as if Yoakam is exploring and discovering the emotional and musical contours of his work in real-time. The demos not only underscore his talents as a songwriter but also as a performer capable of conveying deep emotion even in a rough format.
The Beginnings And Then Some: The Albums of The ’80s offers both longtime fans and new listeners a unique opportunity to experience the early brilliance of Dwight Yoakam. This box set not only showcases the raw talent and innovative spirit that Yoakam brought to the music scene but also provides a deeper understanding of his artistic development through rare demos and tracks. As listeners journey through these seminal albums and unearthed gems, they will gain a richer appreciation for Yoakam’s contributions to country music and his enduring influence on the genre. This collection is a testament to a legendary career that began in the vibrant musical landscape of the 1980s, making it an essential addition to any music enthusiast’s library.
