With rockabilly roots, a heartache-meets-honky-tonk voice, and extraordinary songwriting talent, Kelly Willis pioneered both Americana and the Texas young country scene with her debut album in 1990. Since then, Kelly has proven she can do it all, from contemporary to traditional and beyond, with finesse, smarts, and irresistible charm. As a new traditionalist singer-songwriter, her tunes effortlessly combine the storytelling and strings aspects of country music and the driving force of rock.
The New York Times wrote, “Kelly Willis looks back to country music before Nashville embraced power ballads and cute happily-ever-after songs. She has an old-fashioned country voice with a twang, a breathy quaver, a break or a throaty sob whenever she needs one.” Rolling Stone noted, “Willis’ Okie soprano still crackles like no other, and her control and phrasing make it more devastating than ever.” The solo and collaborative albums Kelly has made, which showcase her alluring voice and gifted songwriting, have only burnished her reputation as Austin’s reigning queen of Americana. Outlaw-era legend Ray Wylie Hubbard recently tweeted, “Kelly, you are the gold standard that I compare other artists to.”
Photo by Todd V. Wolfson
Tickets are $25 per person if purchased in advance and $30 at the door (cash only at the door). Tickets may be purchased below with a credit card or Paypal. All sales are final. Please note, tickets are NOT issued. Your receipt from PayPal is your ticket. Please print and bring with you or be able show receipt on your phone. Your name will appear on the WILL CALL list at the door.
NEW: Students 18 and under $10 at the door, if seats are available
For additional concert information and questions regarding reservations, email concerts@TheOdeonTheater.com.
Wine will be available for purchase by the glass and bottle from Pontotoc Vineyard.
Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Open seating.