www.montereycountynow.com JULY 10-16, 2025 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 31 MUSIC On Monday following the Fourth of July weekend, Robert Earl Keen was on the road somewhere in the desolate stretches of New Mexico or Colorado, mostly out of cell phone reach. The veteran singer-songwriter is putting the finishing touches on a new album, his 20th since the 1984 debut, No Kinda Dancer. He is also in the midst of a tour with shows almost daily: July 5 and 6 in New Mexico, then on to Fort Collins and Colorado Springs, continuing through a July 15 stop in Monterey. But it is the lone appearance that was canceled that occupies Keen’s mind, a holiday festival known as the 4th on the River. “As most of you know, the Texas Hill Country—and namely my hometown of Kerrville—has been crippled by unprecedented flooding on the Fourth of July,” he said in a somber tone. From the road in New Mexico, Keen issued a statement on Instagram. As he spoke, officials had confirmed 84 dead, with dozens missing, including young girls at Camp Mystic outside of Kerrville. The toll of horror reverberated through fond memories. Mystic, he continued, “holds a special place in mine and my family’s hearts, as both of my daughters attended summer camp there.” Keen made three decisions over that weekend. He will donate 100 percent of merchandise sales on the current tour to aid flood victims. He also began organizing a benefit concert. The tour—that continues. Keen’s live performances are legendary, although not necessarily for his vocal range. Keen’s gripping lyrical narratives have often been marked by tragic turns. His characters become very real to the imagination. The stories, rather than the presentation, captivate audiences. Songs “The Rose Hotel,” “Whenever Kindness Fails” and “The Road Goes on Forever” resonate with a three-chords-and-thetruth depth. Keen tried to quit the road once. In 2022 he announced a farewell tour, but proceeded back on the road the next year. But this time Keen asks something of his audiences. “Please support those in need via the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country,” he said. Robert Earl Keen performs 8pm Tuesday, July 15. Golden State Theatre, 417 Alvarado St., Monterey. $48- $107. 649-1070, goldenstatetheatre.com. Donate to flood relief at tinyurl.com/KerrFloodRelief. ERIKA GOLDRING Helping Out When tragedy swept through his hometown, Robert Earl Keen changed the purpose of his tour. By Dave Faries Robert Earl Keen puts nothing on hold. While on tour and releasing an album, he is planning a benefit in aid of Texas flood victims. 53rd Visit Moss Landing. Your Destination for Fun! This small, quaint historic village is full of hidden treasures and enjoyable activities: delightful restaurants, fresh fish and seafood, historic buildings, collectibles and memorabilia, natural wildlife reserve and wetlands, marine sanctuary, whale watching, birdwatching, sport fishing, beachcombing, sandy beaches, surfing, boating amd harbor activities, lodging, wildlife tours, marine services and more... Half way between Monterey and Santa Cruz on Hwy 1 Contributing Sponsors: Monterey County Weekly • The Monterey County Herald Santa Cruz Sentinel • Foolish Times • Bright Future Solar Energy Info: 831.633.4501 mosslandingchamber.com Sunday, July 27 8am-4pm Nearly 200 Antique, Vintage & Artisan Booths BREAKFAST LUNCH Admission $5 All Day *Kids Under 12 Free* FREE PARKING! Sorry, No Dogs Allowed
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