Various Can't Steal My Fire - The Songs Of David Olney (2-LP)

(New West Records) 17 tracks, gatefold cover

This album features new versions of David Olney songs recorded by Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Willis Alan Ramsey, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Mary Gauthier, Jim Lauderdale and Buddy Miller, among others. The track list is also enriched by a never before released live recording by Townes Van Zandt.

Originally from Rhode Island, Olney moved to Nashville in the early '70s and joined a group of songwriters that included Townes Van Zandt, John Hiatt, Steve Earle, Guy Clark and Rodney Crowell. He toured relentlessly with his rock band David Olney & The X-Rays. He released a series of brilliant albums, and his songs were recorded by Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, Del McCoury, Linda Ronstadt and many others. But the bright lights of fame never shone on David, and he died as he lived: on stage in a club, far from home, singing a song.

This album brings together some of David's friends and colleagues to pay tribute to his unique vision. Many of these artists are legends in their own right; all are here because they deeply admire and respect the man and his songs.