I've written maybe 100 songs in my life, most of which won't see the light of day outside my front porch or living room.
Some of them are inspired by spiritual themes, some environmental, some biblical, some by my good friend jw harding [intotheboneyard@yahoo.com]) who is an excellent poet living in Silver City, and some by other writers. I will attach a couple of lyrics.

I can get a cd to you that has these songs plus some other originals on it. The first is Mattie Chatham, based on a couple of short pieces from Wendell Berry's book, "Jayber Crow". The second, for which I've given co-writing credit to jw harding, is based on the struggle of the Zuni Pueblo to thwart mining near their sacred Salt Lake. Serendipitously, shortly after this song was written, a stay was granted by the courts to stop the mining operation. (not sure that is the technical legal jargon as to what happened, but the mining has not gone forward and the courts were involved, along with some bureaucrats who seemed to actually do the "right" thing this time... At least for now.)

I write songs because I need to. They are a journal of sorts - a means to sort out what something means to me - but also sometimes just for fun for me, Back Porch Band members, and any who may show up at a gig wanting to dance and/or feel good. I don't have much formal musical training other than a mother who sang a lot in choirs and small groups and around the house, plus about 5 years playing trumpet. I love music and have been inspired by many other songwriters including John Prine, Lyle Lovett, Tim O'Brien, and Darrel Scott. I've never entered any songwriting contests or put out a formal cd... But have been working with Don Grieser and Ramon Chavez on producing one.

Backporch Band - Karl Herr 505 488 5945 snksherr@osogrande.com