Good of you to mention Steve Earle, Whistle. I'm surprised that I'm the first to mention one of Steve's greatest heroes, friends, mentors and influences: Townes Van Zandt.

But my money's on Guy Clark: Homegrown Tomatoes, L.A. Freeway, Rita Ballou, The Cape, Texas 1947, Desperadoes Waiting for a Train, Nickle for the Fiddler...great songs all.

Chris