Hey, Woody. In My Heart I Hear You Sing Again!
Guthrie’s is a simple, uncomplicated venue that has graced Second Life since late 2008. It provides the best of folk, blues, country, rock ballads, Celtic, pop, classic rock, and singer songwriters. There are no DJs, backing tracks, or karaoke. It’s just 100% live music all the time.
Guthrie’s pays tribute to American singer-songwriter and social activist Woody Guthrie, who inspired countless musicians the likes of Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and his own son Arlo Guthrie, all of whom created the music of a generation. John Steinbeck said of Woody’s voice, “there is nothing sweet about the songs he sings. But there is something more important for those who still listen. There is the will of a people to endure and fight against oppression.” That spirit lives on at Guthrie’s. Well in keeping with its namesake’s social justice focus, Guthrie’s has donation kiosks for Amnesty International and Feed a Smile, a charity that provides food for children in Kenya.
On a recent visit, I watched a set by Russell Eponym, the “Music Whisperer,” with his softly mellow folk voice, singing classic John Denver, Paul Simon, Cliff Richards and early Donovan, as well as historic folk songs from the UK and US, songs like “Scarborough Fair” and “Greensleeves.” Eponym logs in from North Wales and accompanies his singing on a Breedlove guitar, occasionally adding a haunting harmonica. He plays every Sunday at Guthrie’s.
If you are of an age, a place like this will take you back to the coffee houses of the 60s in cities like Boston and San Francisco and countless college towns. Distressed red brick walls with photos of Woody Guthrie, his son Arlo, and several dozen other musicians give the venue warmth and character. There is a genuine sense of community here, with regulars among the musicians and audience; it’s almost a family. Guthrie’s is usually packed, with people showing up all the time -- over 30 for this show and others listening to Russell’s live stream.
Another Brit singer-guitarist, Dew Wopat, followed Russell Eponym, doing covers of Abba, the Eagles, Tears for Fears, and Moody Blues. Back-to-back performances are the order at Guthrie’s, which is often the debut venue for musicians new to Second Life. They are expected to audition. There are 6-7 shows scheduled every day. When you enter the venue, expect to be greeted by Woodrow, the adorable VKC Bichon Frise mascot.
If you want some good music and a relaxing, gentle day or evening, make Guthrie’s your go-to destination. As Woody Guthrie said “Any fool can make something complicated. It takes a genius to make it simple.” Guthrie’s is a little bit of Second Life genius.
