Album of the Day

Born in Kentucky on this day in 1956, Dwight Yoakam channels the spirit of Bakersfield on his major label debut GUITARS, CADILLACS, ETC., ETC. Produced by Pete Anderson, the Reprise collection reveals Yoakam to be both a brilliant writer and interpreter; given heartfelt performances, the originals (“I'll Be Gone,” "It Won't Hurt") and covers (“Honky Tonk Man,” “Ring Of Fire”) mesh seamlessly. At a time when Nashville's slickest and safest ruled the Billboard Country chart, this superb album went to No.1, leading the way for a host of “new traditionalists” (the presence of rocker Maria McKee of Lone Justice on a track offers further proof of Yoakam's maverick spirit). Originally released in 1986, GUITARS, CADILLACS, ETC., ETC. delivers a no-nonsense brand of country that remains ageless.