In and around Chicago in the early 70's, there was an odd combination of bars/coffee houses that I got started in; these were the "folk clubs" that you just don't seem to find around anymore. I was too young for places like the Gate O Horn. The Barbarossa, the Saddle Club, Orphans, Minstrels, the Bulls all had local musicians and gave newcomers a chance. The Quiet Knight had the very best national and international acts, as well as local artists who had proven themselves. The Earl of Old Town, where I went to hear Bob Gibson and was introduced to a "new kid in town" who sang his latest song "City of New Orleans. Within a month everyone was singing Steve Goodman songs.

Two places that were truly unique were the Ranch in downtown Chicago and Durty Nellies in suburban Palatine. The Ranch ran music from 7:00 until 4:00 AM. They had a "Sons of the Pioneers" style western band playing forty minute sets and usually someone with an acoustic playing the twenty minute breaks. I got to do the breaks for a short time and it was like going to country music grad school. The regular band (The Sundowners)played there six nights a week for thirty years. They were a full volume set of the encyclopedia of country music, and with forty minutes between sets, you did nothing but eat the chili, listen and learn. This place was in the basement of an office building right by the Greyhound bus station and got a weird mix of business men, "ladies" and sailors coming in or going out of Great Lakes Naval Training Center. The first time I sang "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" and the dance floor filled up, I knew I had to be doing something right.

There are still a few of the old coffeehouses around the Chicago area. No Exit is still running. The Two Way Street Coffeehouse in Downers Grove just celebrated 30 years and is going strong. I get to play a night there March 30th and I'm thrilled.