Episode 12 – Steve Earle

Steve Earle was born in Fort Monroe, Virginia, where his father, Jack Earle, was stationed as an air traffic controller. The family returned to Texas before Earle’s second birthday. Earle began learning the guitar at the age of 11 and was placed in a talent contest at his school at age 13. He is reported to have run away from home at age 14 to follow his idol, singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt, around Texas. Earle was rebellious as a youngster and dropped out of school at the age of 16. He moved to Houston with his 19-year-old uncle, who was also a musician, where he married and worked odd jobs. While in Houston Earle met Van Zandt, who became his hero and role model.

Still interested? Visit the artist’s official website or Wikipedia entry to learn more about this episode’s guest.