Robert Earl Keen Honors Todd Snider with Poignant ‘Train Song’ Encore in Austin

Americana legend Robert Earl Keen paid a moving tribute to the late singer-songwriter Todd Snider. He performed a cover of Snider’s “Play a Train Song” at his concert in Austin, Texas. The heartfelt moment occurred on Friday night at the Moody Theater.

Keen’s performance served as the show’s encore. It was a direct homage to his friend and fellow musician who passed away last month. The act underscored the deep respect and camaraderie within the songwriting community.

A Ragged But Right Tribute to a Brilliant Friend

Robert Earl Keen introduced the song with personal remarks about Snider. He called him one of the funniest and most brilliant people he ever met. Keen stated he thinks about Snider often.

He delivered a raw, passionate version of the classic track. The song comes from Snider’s 2004 album “East Nashville Skyline.” Keen had previously recorded it for his own 2011 album “Ready for Confetti.”

The performance was captured on video and shared online. It shows Keen and his band fully embracing the song’s spirit. The audience responded with strong enthusiasm to the tribute.

Snider’s Enduring Legacy in Americana Music

Todd Snider’s passing on November 14 prompted an outpouring from the music world. Many artists have shared memories and covered his songs. This trend highlights his significant influence on the Americana and folk scenes.

According to Rolling Stone, artists like Elizabeth Cook and Aaron Lee Tasjan have celebrated Snider’s legacy. The band Turnpike Troubadours also recently recorded a version of his song “Just Like Old Times.” These acts show how widely Snider’s work is admired.

His song “Play a Train Song” itself has a rich backstory. Snider wrote it about a well-known East Nashville character named Skip Litz. Litz was famous for requesting train songs from performers.

Robert Earl Keen’s tribute ensured Todd Snider’s music filled a Texas room once more. This live homage perfectly captured the communal spirit Snider championed. It was a fitting salute from one storied songwriter to another.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did Robert Earl Keen cover this specific Todd Snider song?

Keen had a personal connection to “Play a Train Song,” having recorded it himself over a decade ago. He chose it as a direct and familiar way to honor his friend’s memory and songwriting legacy on stage.

What was the significance of “Play a Train Song” to Todd Snider?

The song is a fan favorite from his 2004 album “East Nashville Skyline.” It was written about a local fixture, Skip Litz, who famously asked musicians to play songs about trains.

How have other artists reacted to Todd Snider’s passing?

Many in the Americana and country communities have paid tribute. This includes sharing stories online and covering his songs in their own concerts, as reported by Rolling Stone.

Where was Robert Earl Keen’s tribute performance?

The performance happened at the Moody Theater in Austin, Texas. It was part of Keen’s annual holiday tour stop in the city.

What is Robert Earl Keen’s touring schedule now?

Following his holiday shows, Keen is set to open for the Turnpike Troubadours on several dates in February. His next performance was scheduled for Houston’s House of Blues.