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INTERVIEW
photo by George Hernandez
Jim Stricklan with Kokobilly Music Tshirt- photo by George Hernandez An interview with a Texas Treasure....

Before his 30+ albums and 4OO song writing credits, before the festivals and clubs and coffee house crowds, Jim Stricklan had his signature musical moment.

“I was eight years old. We were out in west Texas and my mother took me to a TV studio on a Saturday morning. They’d have local musicians come in and play and the kids in the audience would sing along. I’ve never forgotten it, I got to sing with Roy Orbison. He became one of my many music heroes.”


Not long after that, with a Truetone guitar from Western Auto, Jim began creating the music that would attract fans and friendship for decades. How would you describe your sound?

“It’s a gumbo of American music if you have to call it anything. I like to explore different styles. Texas is well known as a melting pot of nationalities and the cultures that go with it. It’s all Texas music.”

photo by Kelly Zant
Jim Stricklan with straw hat and denim shirt - photo by Kelly Zandt




You’re a prolific songwriter. Where do you get your inspirations?

“Music comes from a much higher place. It’s just coming through us, really. Sometimes I’ll wake up from a dream and have a whole chorus or a verse in my head. Those are the best songs. The ones that come quickly and seemingly from nowhere.”


After 35 years in the industry, what keeps you trying new things musically?

“It’s about reaching the potential of your soul and being able to express something that brings some joy into the world. I think there needs to be a lot more joy in the world. Songs are my children. I’ve raised calico cats and songs—some more well-behaved than others.”

For Jim Stricklan, the joy is in the journey. Come along with Jim and explore this original voice of Texas.