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Thursday, May 17, 2012

John Fullbright May Be Okemah, Okla.’s Next Musical Son

Musician John Fullbright at Here & Now studios at WBUR in Boston. (Jesse Costa/Here & Now)

Okemah, Okla., is the birthplace of folk legend Woody Guthrie. It’s also the hometown of singer-songwriter John Fullbright, who has been gathering critical acclaim for his debut studio album “From The Ground Up.”

Fullbright is just 24 years old, but critics are already comparing him to the likes of Randy Newman, Townes Van Zandt and Leon Russell for his blend of folk blues, gospel and Americana rock.

Musician Jimmy Webb says of his fellow Oklahoman: “I have no doubt that in a very short time John Fullbright will be a household name in American music.”

Guest:

  • John Fullbright, musician

We welcome comments from all of our listeners. Post below. Please stay on topic and be civil. Comments may be moderated by us, but you are solely responsible for the content of your comments.

  • Grant808

    I have discovered some of my favorite artists listening to NPR.  Thank you for another great discovery.

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Bridget-Kenyon-Meowma-Wood/659497995 Bridget Kenyon Meowma Wood

    I think this is very exciting! We love him and think he is one of the nicest people this could happen to!

  • Alynbro

    John fullbright is awesome!

  • Randy

    A true Okie. To hear him live is a treat.

  • Justbushwacking

    Been listening to his songs for 4-5 years now.  Saw him in Eureka Spring, Arkansas 2 or 3 years ago and was blown away by how young he was.  Great songwriter and musician and a real nice guy.  Glad to see him coming up

  • Deletenot

    Don’t miss John Fullbright.  Heard him in OKC.  Floored.

  • Fasteddie1257

    Outstanding!

  • MrAlwaysRight

    Just heard him on “A Prairie Home Companion” today- EXCELLENT- Loudon Wainrightish lyric to his voice, insightful prose way beyond his years…couldn’t help but wonder what some would sound like with Tom Waite singing a line or two with his gravelly voice, or Bob Dylan…it’s been too long since I heard someone so immediately enjoyable.

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