Steve Earle & The Dukes - 'Harlem River Blues' [Audio Only]

On the forthcoming album, J.T., Steve Earle & The Dukes pay tribute to Steve’s late son, Justin Townes Earle (J.T.), who passed away on August 20, 2020 in Nashville. The album will be released digitally on what would have been Justin’s 39th birthday, January 4, 2021, via New West Records.

J.T. finds Steve Earle & The Dukes covering 10 of Justin’s songs – from “I Don’t Care,” which appeared on his 2007 debut EP, Yuma, and a trio of selections from his full-length debut album, The Good Life (“Ain’t Glad I’m Leaving,” “Far Away In Another Town” and “Lone Pine Hill”) to later compositions like 2017’s “Champagne Corolla” and 2019’s “The Saint Of Lost Causes,” which was the title track of Justin’s eighth and final studio album. J.T. closes with “Last Words,” a song Steve wrote for Justin.

100% of the artist advances and royalties from J.T. will be donated to a trust for Etta St. James Earle, the three-year-old daughter of Justin and Jenn Earle. While somber in parts, the album is ultimately a rousing celebration of a life lived with passion and purpose. The recording features the latest incarnation of Steve’s backing band, The Dukes – Chris Masterson on guitar, Eleanor Whitmore on fiddle & vocals, Ricky Ray Jackson on pedal steel, guitar & dobro, Brad Pemberton on drums & percussion, and Jeff Hill on acoustic & electric bass.

[edb]

The father paying tribute and celebrating his son's artistry is a poignant and powerful expression of his grief. More than that, it is a pathway toward healing, not only for the family but for those whose lives were touched by Justin's music.

The choir at the end is so fitting.

Thank you Steve and Justin.

[rossedwardmiller]

Anyone else think it’s incredibly heart-warming/breaking that he changed “father” to “daddy”???

[greydawg]

anybody else get all misty listening to this the first time?

[ernieme]

youtube needs a heart icon for this, thumbs up just doesn't express how much i love this .

[markwhalley]

What a wonderful thing to do. How can one song be so happy and yet so crushingly sad at the same time? Steve, your strength to do this is inspiring.

[keithwilsonx]

I miss Justin and all the new music he would have written. RIP JTE

[Takkio]

This was my favorite song by JTE, such a loss😊

[ezelife]

Tears rolling down my face as I listen to this, beautiful. One of my favorite JTE songs, and a perfect tribute. I’m so sorry for your loss Steve and the whole Earle family. 🖤

[markduncan]

This song means a lot to me personally. Great job Steve. RIP Justin

[rickjohnston]

I was aware of Justin Townes Earle from a track on one of his Dad's CD's and their collaboration on "Avalon Blues, " a compilation of Mississippi John Hurt songs. Then when I saw him play this masterpiece on David Letterman it just blew me away and I became a fan. I'm really glad that Steve and the Dukes did this.

[bobot]

Wonderful tribute. With the proceeds going to help JTE's daughter, it's a beautiful thing, Steve. Sorry for your loss with the passing of Justin.

[stevethibodeau]

Fuck 2020, was still reeling from John Prine when JT passed, here's hoping 2021 gives us all a reason to smile. Forever a part of the soundtrack of my life JT and his ole man.

[eibaby]

What a FABULOUS song and an even better tribute to Justin Townes. Dancing!!!

[garrettgoesfishin]

This made me cry. I know your pain and that empty hole that will always exist now. Every other day it seems someone I know dies

[LeahSugarB]

I can't wait to until January 4th to get my copy. Finally, something good to look forward to in the new year. Your son would have loved this, Steve. RIP JTE 💚

[martinfraser]

Very sad loss and a fitting tribute. Saw JTE and band play a blistering set at St Bonn's in Bristol UK a few years back. Awesome.

[Kickstart]

Love that you’re doing this project.. truly hate that you’re doing this project

[xvola]

Nice one Steve you sprinkled a bit of your magic on this already great song RIP Justin and god bless you all.

[geraldnulischjr]

I just found out bout justin townes earle
I'm so sorry for your lost
My prayers r with u
He was a great singer songwriter
Loved this song
Thank u Steve for ur music u shared with us
God bless my friend

[mairianncullen]

I love the beautiful art work on the cover. As well as this cover of Justin's wonderful song. ❤❤