Townes Van Zandt is widely considered one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 20th century. His 1971 album, “Flying Shoes,” is often cited as one of his most iconic works. But when was “Flying Shoes” released? In this article, we’ll answer this question and explore the legacy of this timeless classic. So, let’s take a look back in time to explore the release of Townes Van Zandt’s “Flying Shoes.”
Townes Van Zandt’s Flying Shoes
Flying Shoes is a studio album by American singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt, released in 1974. It was his fifth studio album and the second album he released on Poppy Records. The album consists of twelve tracks, all of which were written and composed by Townes Van Zandt. The album showcases Van Zandt’s storytelling style, which has been described as “painfully honest and introspective”.
Track Listings
Flying Shoes features the following tracks:
1. “Lungs”
2. “Flying Shoes”
3. “White Freightliner Blues”
4. “None But the Rain”
5. “Two Hands”
6. “Tower Song”
7. “The Catfish Song”
8. “Quicksilver Daydreams of Maria”
9. “Loretta”
10. “Rex’s Blues”
11. “Snake Mountain Blues”
12. “Tecumseh Valley”
When Was Flying Shoes Released?
Flying Shoes was released on April 16, 1974. The album was recorded in Austin, Texas over a period of two days. It was produced by Poppy Records producer John T. Davis and was released to critical acclaim. The album has since been re-released several times, most recently in 2008 as part of the Townes Van Zandt Deluxe Edition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Was Flying Shoes by Townes Van Zandt Released?
Answer: Flying Shoes by Townes Van Zandt was released on September 15, 1994. The album was released by Sugar Hill Records, a Nashville-based record label. The album was Van Zandt’s twelfth studio album and was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee.
What Was the Genre of the Album?
Answer: Flying Shoes by Townes Van Zandt was a folk-rock album. It featured a variety of musical styles, including country, blues, and traditional folk music. The album was well-received by critics and fans alike, and was praised for its intricate songwriting and Van Zandt’s powerful, emotive delivery.
Who Produced the Album?
Answer: The album was produced by Lloyd Maines, a producer and musician from Lubbock, Texas. Maines had previously worked with Van Zandt on his previous album, No Deeper Blue, and had also worked with other notable artists such as the Dixie Chicks, Guy Clark, and Robert Earl Keen.
What Was the Lead Single from the Album?
Answer: The lead single from the album was “No Place To Fall”, which was released on August 8, 1994. The song was a mid-tempo folk-rock track with a memorable chorus. The song was praised by critics and was a minor hit on college radio.
Who Played on the Album?
Answer: The album featured a variety of artists, including Lloyd Maines on steel guitar and electric guitar, Tommy Spurlock on pedal steel guitar, and Lloyd Green on dobro. Other musicians featured on the album included Van Zandt’s long-time collaborators Butch Hancock and Joe Ely, as well as legendary musicians such as Willie Nelson and Emmylou Harris.
What Was the Last Track on the Album?
Answer: The last track on the album was “Snowin’ on Raton”, a traditional folk-style ballad. The song was a pensive and melancholic track, with Van Zandt’s emotive delivery and the accompaniment of finger-style guitar and subtle strings. The song is considered one of the highlights of the album.
Flying Shoes by Townes Van Zandt was an incredible album that has become an essential part of the American music canon. This landmark album was released in 1973 and has been revered by music fans ever since. From its innovative lyrics to its timeless melodies, it has made an undeniable impact on the musical landscape. Whether you are a fan of Townes Van Zandt or just a lover of great music, Flying Shoes is an album that should be on everyone’s playlist.
