Dwight Yoakam Talks 'Guitars, Cadillacs' | The Big Interview

Dwight Yoakam talks with Dan Rather about his experience in the country rock scene, why he gravitated more toward Los Angeles than Nashville, the origin of his hit song "Guitars, Cadillacs," and more on The Big Interview.

[cgdguvf]

I grew up in Texas in the 70s and 80s and was mostly a rocker - hard rock, metal, etc, but there was no escaping Country music back then - it was just part of the fabric of life in Texas - and it got just in my blood without me much realizing it. When "Guitars and Cadillacs" came out, I somehow had the wherewithal to recognize what an amazing new talent Dwight was and what a kickass new form of Country music he was bringing to the national table. I look back and I am kind of amazed that I caught it and bought the record, being a long haired rocker and all, but his talent was so great that it was undeniable.
Modern Country music lives in Dwight's shadow probably more than any other single artist and although everyone knows he is a great, I don't think he gets the credit for revolutionizing and revitalizing Country music like he did in the early 80s and his impact is still being felt today

[DV-olvt]

One of my favorite singers and a great actor.

[peaceband]

I started playing his music a few years back. As time goes by, I enjoy him so much. A 1000 Miles From Know where is a prime example. When asked to put it in a set list, I thought it redundant with the chorus. But as I learned it, I found it quite different in its composition. We played it a couple weeks ago to a roaring audience. Thanks so much Dwight.

[Shay_What]

"whatchu gonna do with that lawnmower blade Carl?" Such a great performnace!

[SuperMcgenius]

Back in the early 80’s as a punk rocker, I loved this album, raw and thoughtful. Same for Johnny Cash and hank . Shout out to rank and file, John Doe from X and many cow punk artists.

[rdive]

Wow, he really nails it. I’m the way I am because of my childhood experiences

[losthighway]

Have loved your music from the start bought Guitars, Cadillacs as soon as it hit the music stores and you will forever be Doyle Hartgrave one of my favorite characters in one of my favorite movies!!!

[sethshippee]

This man's music was my child hood

[brushstroke]

Dwight seems like a genuine humble guy. I wish we would all offer our best to the world as he has done. We can do more by being out authentic selves and making every day count.

[GuitarlosCarlos]

I CONSIDER DWIGHT A FRIEND

I MET HIM ONE DAY IN 1984 WHEN HE WAS HANGING OUT WITH THE GREAT GUITARIST BILL CAMPBELL

HE DID GIGS WITH MY BAND
TOP JIMMY & the RHYTHM PIGS

I STARTED PLAYING IN 1960 & THE LATE 70s EARLY 80s WAS ANOTHER GREAT TIME FOR MUSIC IN LA

CARLOS GUITARLOS 90042 USA

[stevenholquin]

The Most Underrated Country
Honky Tonker is
Dale Watson
This Guy Is The Best Yet
He Is In The Background Of
Country Music 🎶 For
Some Folks It’s Hard To
Understand
Country Music
Dale Watson Helps You
Understand What Good O’ld
Country Music 🎼 is All About

[stealthfighter]

Dang, he’s very knowledgeable about music history.

[joanneganon]

Thank you Dan and Dwight!
JO JO IN VT 💞

[Piwork]

California has rich history of rural ranches and their no-nonsense, gruff owners—even in Southern CA. As a kid in the 70’s you would still see remaining barns and avocado patches intermingled with tract home neighborhoods. All that is gone now.

[RDC_Autosports]

🎶 guitars & cadillacs…… hillbilly muuuusic 🎶 this song and 1000 miles from nowhere, towards the end of the song the guitar solos… one with a slide … love it!! 😎👍👍

[jmowiscoproud]

Guitars, Cadillac, Hillbilly music! The only lonely streets that I call home!

[stevenholquin]

Cal Punk
I Remember
Tex and The Horse Heads
With Texacala Jones
or Blood on The Saddle
These Bands Practiced at
Hully Gully on
Fletcher Drive and
Yes Dwight Was There

[Sayres]

I thought Dwight was funny as hell as that preacher In Four Christmases . Multi talented

[mistychenoweth]

Saw his hat in concert. He never looked up, never spoke to the audience.

[dezyote]

Chris Hillman yes, but don't forget as he is often, Gram Parson . He was the one that introduced the Byrds to Country . I disagree with Dwight.