Beginner's Guide to Texas Cosmic Country & Progressive Roots

Step 1: The party

• 'London Homesick Blues' — Gary P. Nunn with Jerry Jeff Walker
• 'Up Against the Wall, Redneck Mother' — Jerry Jeff Walker
• 'Shotgun Willie' — Willie Nelson

Step 2: The songwriters

• 'Desperados Waiting for a Train' — Guy Clark
• 'Spider John' — Willis Alan Ramsey
• 'Geronimo's Cadillac' — Michael Martin Murphey
• 'Pancho and Lefty' — Townes Van Zandt

Step 3: The band

Play The Lost Gonzo Band's 1975 debut start to finish. Our discography explains what to listen for.

Step 4: Go wide

Move on to Western swing with Asleep at the Wheel and Tex-Mex with Doug Sahm, then pick from our 15 essential albums. If a term confuses you, check the glossary.