The Ghosts of Highway 20

Album: The Ghosts of Highway 20 (2016)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Lucinda Williams' 12th studio album is named after a stretch of Interstate 20 that runs in part from Texas to South Carolina. The highway hits the northern part of Williams' home state of Louisiana, as well as cities she has resided in (Atlanta, and Macon), has family ties to (Shreveport, Monroe) or has previously written about (Jackson, Vicksburg).
  • Williams spent many of her formative years growing up in the towns that line up the long highway stretch, and the road is a common thread woven throughout. A press statement reveals that "12 of the 14 songs were inspired by various periods and experiences throughout Williams' life that all tie into Highway 20."
  • Williams explained why she named the album after the highway. "It has played a big part of my life, from when I started school in Macon, Georgia," she told UK newspaper The Sun. My brother was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, my sister was born in Jackson, Mississippi and my mother was buried in, Louisiana."

    "I have been going up and down is now Interstate 20 for my entire life," Williams continued. "From riding in the back of my dad's car at 4 years old to riding on the tour buses, 60 years later."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Spooner Oldham

Spooner OldhamSongwriter Interviews

His keyboard work helped define the Muscle Shoals sound and make him an integral part of many Neil Young recordings. Spooner is also an accomplished songwriter, whose hits include "I'm Your Puppet" and "Cry Like A Baby."

Hawksley Workman

Hawksley WorkmanSongwriter Interviews

One of Canada's most popular and eclectic performers, Hawksley tells stories about his oldest songs, his plentiful side projects, and the ways that he keeps his songwriting fresh.

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo Lyric

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo LyricMusic Quiz

In this quiz, spot the artist who put Romeo into a song lyric.

Jon Anderson of Yes

Jon Anderson of YesSongwriter Interviews

From the lake in "Roundabout" to Sister Bluebird in "Starship Trooper," Jon Anderson talks about how nature and spirituality play into his lyrics for Yes.

Stan Ridgway

Stan RidgwaySongwriter Interviews

Go beyond the Wall of Voodoo with this cinematic songwriter.

The Real Nick Drake

The Real Nick DrakeSong Writing

The head of Drake's estate shares his insights on the late folk singer's life and music.