Born March 7, 1944, Townes Van Zandt was an influential singer-songwriter with a great love for the state of Texas. Among his most famous compositions, titled "Pancho and Lefty," was made popular in two significant versions, one a duet by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, which hit No. 1 on the Country charts, and another by Emmylou Harris. Battling alcoholism and herion addiction much of his adult life, Van Zandt died on January 1, 1997 -- 24 years to the day after the death of honky-tonk great Hank Williams. During his lifetime, Van Zandt was a close and dear friend to many famous country and western singers and songwriters, including Mr. Nelson, Mr. Haggard, Ms. Harris, Guy Clark, and Steve Earle. Rising country crossover singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle, the son of Mr. Earle, was given his middle name in honor of Townes Van Zandt.
Significance
Van Zandt was pioneer of the Alt. Country sub-genre. Many of his records were out of print at the time of his death. Yet interest in his music has increased since his passing. Acclaimed, award-winning artists beside who have covered songs written by Van Zandt are numerous, including Merle Haggard Willie Nelson Emmylou Harris Steve Earle, Cowboy Junkies, Nanci Griffith, and Ryan Adams.
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References
Fast Facts
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Birthname
John Townes Van Zandt
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Date of Birth
March 7, 1944, in Fort Worth, Texas
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Date of Death
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Active
1965-1996
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Record Label
Sugar Hill Records
