Ryan Bingham’s music has been able to reach a much larger audience through his role in Yellowstone, but he had already solidified himself as one of the musical greats long before the masses knew him as Walker.
There is a distinct aura emitted by Bingham’s music and style that surrounds him. While it doesn’t take a deep dive into his music to realize his deft songwriting ability and diverse sounds, Bingham’s extensive catalog of six albums, multiple live albums, and several singles makes a deep dive well worth the time and effort.
Perhaps one of the best things about Bingham’s music is the authenticity.
If he’s writing about it, chances are he’s been there and experienced it. A native of Hobbs, New Mexico, Bingham grew up a cowboy and never stayed in one place too long. He was forced to grow up at a young age, and it shows in his music.
He first began playing guitar and writing songs while on a bull riding circuit during his teenage years, and people quickly took note of his raw talent. The rest is history.
Back in 2019, while on a European tour to promote his album American Love Song, Bingham sat down with The Blues Kitchen to talk a little bit about his background and the album, and it is a must watch video for any Ryan Bingham fan.
Eventually, the conversation turns to speaking on some of Bingham’s favorite musical talents such as Steve Earle, Terri Allen, Joe Ely, and of course, Guy Clark. Clark, in my opinion, is one of the greatest songwriters of all time, and it’s pretty cool to hear how Bingham met him and was influenced by his music.
Clark, a West Texas native and prolific songwriter, penned songs throughout his career that have been recorded by everyone from Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson to Chris Stapleton and Kenny Chesney.
He is known for his own songs like “L.A. Freeway,” “The Guitar,” “and most notably, “Dublin Blues,” the title track on his 1995 album Dublin Blues.
In an intimate acoustic setting, Bingham delivers an incredible rendition of Clark’s “Dublin Blues” at the end of Conversation with The Blues Kitchen.
Check out the full video here:
While you’re at it, watch this video of Guy Clark playing “Dublin Blues” himself live from Austin City Limits in 2008.
