Dale LeRoy Perry

Hell, I just turned 70. 

Born to work in a Midwest steel mill, which I did.

Met a harp players Malcolm Gibson and Mad Adam. Adios steel mill. Played around the Midwest.

Found Brownie and Lightnin' and John Hurt and had to do it like them.  One man with one acoustic guitar playing the blues, so pure. Set out to preserve the tradition which I did 

After hearing me play,  Brownie McGee gave me the right to sing the blues because, he said, I was never goin' home. Blind Lemon gave that right to Leadbelly who gave it to Brownie who gave it to me.

Went to college met these "Old Beats" who filled my head with "on the road " ala Koroack and Wolf. With my ax, 20 bucks  I headed out in my old chevy van, alone no dog.  

I eventually landed in Summit Co. Colorado where I lived in an old miners shack with no water or electric. I played the ski joints and got to get warm twice from chopping wood.  

While playing the Oxford Hotel in Denver I met 2 Dallas guys who invited be to play the Rubaiyat. After opening for Kenneth Threadgill (yep just like Jimmy Rodgers) I caught a ride with him to play the Saxon with Sonny and Brownie in Austin.

Got a job looking for oil (seismic) and traveling all around. 

In 1989 I returned to Austin to drive cab and play around town for 4 years. in cab and and album later those infamous folks encouraged me to go to Nashville. Which I did, and drove cab for 2 years. I met some really talented and successful songwriters through true songwriters open mics and showcases. The concept of crafting elevated my understanding of the art of songwriting. Every word counts. 10% inspiration, 90 % perspiration,  I think Hemingway said that.

After some success in "the music business" I fell pray to the evils of the street. Eventually I came back to Austin in full recovery mode.

Highways and hedges and borders  and bridges carried me I came back in 1999. 

I was playing the clubs when I developed serious physical issues that have taken several years to overcome. 

Now I'm back and have GONE ELECTRIC. I have been well received by some of the best blues men in Austin. Country blues has translated into a unique electric style. Birdleg Pittman called me ole timey and said I sang like his dad. I took it as a high compliment.

OK  It is my last chance to do something with this talent I have been given. The licks keep improving and new tunes are coming.  Music is all I have ever been about, but I have been leary of the business. 

I got tunes, guitar chops, a voice, pro gear. and good wheels.  Its time..... its time.. 

For my sweet wife I need to get out and do something with what I have been told is very special. I reckon it is now or never.

Hope to see y'all out there.