Well, he was in great spirits when I spoke to him before the performance. His speaking voice was as I remembered it. His singing voice, he said, was unpredictable. He could start off in one key and in the middle of a song, his voice would change to another key.

So he gets on stage. Sitting on a stool with that big guitar on his lap, he starts off with "I Just Don't Look Good Naked Anymore." Did a credible job. Told a joke and then informed the crowd that he had a drinking problem as he pulled out a water bottle and took a long drag on it. The problem it seems is that he has been reduced to drinking water.

From that point on, I am sorry to say, It was all downhill. I think it was after the fourth song his voice was gone and he had to give it up and let his backup performer finish the set, but by golly, he gave it all he had. The audience gave him a tremendous ovation. What a great trooper.

Joe

PS The above occurred last night at White's Beach Bluegrass Festival in Brunswick, Maine.