Glue. An adhesive substance used for sticking objects or materials together.
The Texas Music scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of countless talented artists. But amidst this diverse landscape, there's one figure who stands out as a true unifier: Wade Bowen. More than just a singer-songwriter, Bowen serves as the glue that binds this community together, offering guidance, support, and genuine friendship to his fellow Texans.
Wade Bowen isn’t a substance, rather a kindred spirit that holds people together. Fans, musicians, media types, corporate donors, charity foundation organizers…humans. Several times I’ve referred to Wade as the uncle or glue of the scene. He is a bridge between eras, a friend to all. Turned on to this music by Robert Earl Keen as a teenager, inspired by Pat Green as a college kid, to paving his own way that others now emulate. He’s been in the trenches and he’s been a major label country star on national television, but never changed who he is at his principled core. Wade is the type of guy that everyone calls for advice. The guy that many people consider their best friend in the industry. The one that his peers turn to when they aren’t sure how to navigate a situation. They might not follow his advice to the letter, but they damn sure take it to heart.
He’s as comfortable with only his guitar and voice in front of a microphone all by himself as he is orchestrating a 35 person impromptu jam to close a festival show. His contacts list includes the local open mic kid and athletes in the hall of fame. Record label execs and that one bartender out in Midland. He’s a worker. He’s a uniter. He’s a leader. The most respected voice in the room. Everyone stops down to listen to him.
I have many personal anecdotes that relate to this phenomenon, but one that stands out above the others has to do with raising money for charity after immeasurable heartache and tragedy. After the fertilizer plant explosion in West, TX, minutes from where Wade grew up in Waco, tributes and benefit concerts sprung up all over the place. Here at Galleywinter, we were involved in one. Wade called me and hatched a plan to get everyone on the same page and turn all the little shows into one giant one. He decided that all the money made at that year’s Bowen Classic, which was just a couple weeks away from taking place, would benefit the West folks. He didn’t ask anyone. He just said it. And he got all the stakeholders to buy in in a matter of a few phone calls.
The benefit came, and John Dempsy who helped rescue my grandmother from the wreckage of her West, TX nursing home was onstage singing his song “Heroes and Angels” that he wrote about the experience of being on the scene that April night in West. Who did Wade ask to introduce JD’s appearance? Me. As I walked off stage from my emcee duties, I passed Billy Joe Shaver who told me “Good job kid.” Soon enough we were in a long conversation. Me and Billy Joe Shaver. A young cowboy walked up. He joined the conversation and stuck his hand out. He told me his name was Cody and thanked me for writing about his music.
The young cowboy, Cody, began talking with Billy Joe and I excused myself from the scene to go chat with some friends. Billy Joe Shaver was onstage after JD. Then, some kid named Cody Johnson took the stage at some point. He made a comment about the song John Dempsy had written about West. The world is crazy sometimes. In one fell swoop, Wade coordinated efforts to raise a ton of money for people who needed it. Exposed a talented young songwriter and by proxy, a Texas Music blog/community to thousands of people who were previously unfamiliar with either entity. On a selfish level, he provided me with a substantive interfacing with a legend and a future superstar. All because he brought everyone together for the same cause. That little story is indicative of thousands of moments that Wade Bowen has created.
Wade Bowen's influence extends far beyond his own impressive canon of songwriting, production and performance. He's a mentor, a confidante, and a constant source of encouragement for emerging artists. Whether it's offering advice on navigating the industry, sharing the stage with up-and-comers, or simply lending a listening ear, Bowen consistently demonstrates a genuine desire to uplift those around him.
This isn't merely a professional courtesy; it's a reflection of Bowen's character. He's known for his humility, his down-to-earth demeanor, and his unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of camaraderie within the Texas Music scene. He understands that the strength of the community lies in its collective success, and he actively works to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Bowen's impact transcends individual artists. His presence at festivals and shows creates a palpable sense of unity, bringing together fans, musicians, and industry professionals in a shared celebration of Texas music. He's a living embodiment of the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect that defines this vibrant scene. Much like Willie, the life he loves is making music with his friends. And it shows.
In an industry that can often feel competitive and cutthroat, Wade Bowen stands as a beacon of collaboration and genuine human connection. He's a testament to the power of kindness, mentorship, and perhaps most importantly a shared love for music. At his core, he’s a bigger fan of music than just about everyone. It gets him as excited as the biggest fan. As the Texas Music scene continues to evolve, it's crucial for folks like Wade Bowen to continue to provide the unwavering support and undisputed friendship that serve as the bedrock of our music scene.
Uncle Wade. The glue that binds the heart of Texas Music together. He’ll be at it next week in Key West at Mile 0. And he flies back on Saturday to play a charity benefit in Waco. The week after that he’ll probably be giving advice to some kid with some songs and a dream.
Glue. An adhesive substance used for sticking objects or materials together.