While hiking on trails at Sedona, Arizona, I broke into song. My sister hadn't heard of Bonnie Raitt, nor of her recent album, and listened intently. My song rang through the red rock and prayer circles... "Nick Of Time", sung as an offering to the Gods. Almost as a plea.
"You done?" my sister asked.
"Yes, thank you. I feel much better." I answered.
"Good. You've scared the tourists, and my feet hurt."
We left. But I can still remember how it felt. I was free — free in more ways than one. Probably in more ways than I wanted at the time.
Hearing that album still brings back the memories of that trip to Arizona in my sister's crappy jeep. Veering off the road onto the shoulder, shooting gravel into the air and small animals, stopping to pee every five minutes and singing to the Heavens while my sister rolled her eyes. The perfect road trip.
Article comments
1 - Eric Olsen
Happy 40th Chari! It's not so bad (from 44). Nice job - thanks.
2 - Kenan Hebert
Very nice. You reminded me of how much I like that song. While I would probably not buy the album again (I think I did own it for a brief period when I was about 16 -- I didn't relate, as you can imagine), I'm happy to live in a world where fast internet connections and p2p programs make it possible for me to give a long forgotten favorite an earnest listen in the dark, in the middle of the night.
Bless you, and bless Bonnie Raitt, and bless the Grand Canyon.
3 - Chari Daignault
Thanks, Kenan, I'm glad you were able to enjoy it once again... but 16??!! :)
I think the BeeGees were doing "Saturday Night Fever" when I was 16. Hmmm... I may have to write a piece on that!
4 - Eric Olsen
Well, when I was 16 it was Mott the Hoople, David Bowie, and Roxy Music. The Bee Gees were not yet funky.
5 - Kenan Hebert
Hm. Now I feel old, too. It didn't seem so long ago that I was listening to the Pixies, but... my how time flies. I can't believe I'm pushing 30.