In the summer of 2018, I had the chance to hear alt-country singer Courtney Marie Andrews live at a small venue in Washington, DC. Andrews was touring to showcase her just released album May Your Kindness Remain, and I was impressed by the honesty of the lyrics, the soulful power of her vocals, and—perhaps most importantly—the defiance in the songs. It was a defiance that pushed back against melancholy. Against the struggles we all face.

The acoustic version of Took You Up is a good example of her work.

And the lyrics of May Your Kindness Remain speak to the connectivity she finds with people while living the life of the road musician.

You’re a good woman, and a good friend
You’ve got a good heart, even when it’s busted and bent
Lipstick and perfume, underground queen
Wearing loneliness like a costume, for the whole world to see
And if your money runs out, and your good looks fade
May your kindness remain

. . .

The richest of people aren’t rich with houses, cars, or fame
No, they’re not rich with something that can be bought, or arranged
No, it’s kindness that makes them beautiful
And a kind heart don’t cost a dime
It’s a gift that keeps giving, for the rest of your life
And if your money runs out, and your good looks fade
May your kindness remain

I love the thought of kindness being the thing that remains. After money, looks, fame are all gone—especially in this day and age—there’s a lot to be said for just being kind.

Kindness came back to Andrews recently, in a wonderful fashion. Brandi Carlile, one of Americana and country music’s most popular female performers—and a member of the super-group the Highwomen—is taking a stand on her stated intention to “open the door and hold it open for other female artists.” How is she doing that?

By serving as the opening act for Courtney Marie Andrews, among others.

And a kind heart don’t cost a dime
It’s a gift that keeps giving, for the rest of your life
And if your money runs out, and your good looks fade
May your kindness remain

What a wonderful gift.

More to come…

DJB

Image: “May Your Kindness Remain” album cover: Courtney Marie Andrews