Americana, country-punk, No Depression, alt-country. Whatever you want to call this twangy-ish sort of music it’s been a part of my life since the early 80’s. Nope, not after the scene exploded with Uncle Tupelo. The country influence has always been a part of college rock, which is the first half of this week’s look at my favorite songs of all time.

The second half does kick off with Uncle Tupelo and the wonderful spinoffs Wilco and Son Volt, along with quite a few fantastic singer/songwriters and revved up Gram Parsons acolytes. Actually, acolyltes of both Parsons AND The Replacements!

After listening, please go purchase those tracks you enjoy! These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely helps not only pay their bills but fund their next set of wonderful songs.