Lacy J. Dalton A Legacy Revisited

Lacy J. Dalton: A Legacy Revisited, Still on the Road

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

Lacy J. Dalton. The name conjures images of a powerful voice, a touch of outlaw spirit, and a string of indelible country hits that defined a significant era in the genre. From the breakthrough success of “Crazy Blue Eyes” in 1979, Dalton carved a unique path through the 1980s with songs like the evocative “16th Avenue,” the easygoing charm of “Takin’ It Easy,” and the spirited anthem “Hillbilly Girl With The Blues.” Sharing stages with giants like Willie Nelson, Glen Campbell, and George Jones solidified her place in country music history, a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences who appreciate authenticity and a touch of grit.

Now, in a move that promises to delight longtime fans and introduce her enduring catalog to a new generation, Dalton is deepening her partnership with StarVista Music. This collaboration will see the re-release of three cherished albums – ‘The Last Wild Place Anthology,’ ‘Here’s To Hank,’ and ‘Scarecrow’ – alongside five independent singles: “Let ‘em Run,” “Wild Pony Lullaby Run,” “Mustang Run,” “Next To Me,” and “Horse Comin’.” With a remarkable career spanning nearly half a century and encompassing close to thirty albums, Lacy J. Dalton remains a vital and active force in music, showing no signs of slowing her creative journey. Alongside these reissues, she continues to connect with audiences across the United States through her ongoing tour schedule.

“It’s been such a great partnership with Starvista and I am happy we are able to continue it with a few more of my independent projects that I am extremely proud of,” Dalton shared, emphasizing the personal connection she feels to this material. “As a songwriter, these tracks bare my soul and hopefully, more people will get to hear them now.” This sentiment underscores the artistic integrity that has always been a hallmark of her work.

Adding another layer to her ongoing story, Lacy J. Dalton is currently celebrating the 35th anniversary of her impactful single “Black Coffee.” Written by Hillary Kanter and Even Stevens, the song was released in March 1990 as the lead track from her self-titled Lacy J. album. It quickly climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, reaching No. 15 by June of that year. “Black Coffee” swiftly became a beloved fan favorite and remains a defining moment in Dalton’s storied career. Its signature blend of her raw, emotive vocals and heartfelt storytelling cemented her reputation as one of the most respected artists of her time. The song’s enduring appeal continues to captivate both those who have followed her journey from the beginning and new listeners discovering her powerful voice, standing as a testament to her lasting influence on country music.

The reissued albums and singles offer a comprehensive look at different facets of Dalton’s artistry:

The Last Wild Place Anthology Track Listing:

1. Listen To The Wind
2. Heart of Hearts
3. The Wanderers
4. Old Dog Blue
5. The Alaska Song
6. Standin’ Knee Deep
7. Slip Away
8. Little Boy Blue
9. The Last Wild Place
10. Sanctuary
11. She Could Run
12. Boundless Skies
13. Black Coffee
14. 16th Avenue
15. Crazy Blue Eyes
16. Takin’ It Easy
17. Everybody Makes Mistakes

This anthology serves as a broad overview of her work, including some of her most iconic hits alongside deeper cuts that showcase her songwriting prowess and her connection to themes of freedom and the natural world.

Here’s To Hank Track Listing:

1. Hey Good Lookin’
2. Lovesick Blues
3. My Bucket’s Got A Hole In It
4. Long Gone Lonesome Blues
5. Your Cheatin’ Heart
6. (I Heard That) Lonesome Whistle
7. Jambalaya (On The Bayou)
8. Why Don’t You Love Me
9. Cold, Cold Heart
10. Honky Tonk Blues
11. Take These Chains From My Heart
12. You Win Again

“Here’s To Hank” is a heartfelt tribute to one of country music’s foundational figures, Hank Williams. Dalton’s interpretations of these classics demonstrate her deep understanding of the genre’s roots and her ability to infuse timeless songs with her own distinctive style.

Scarecrow (EP) Track Listing:

1. It Takes An Earthquake Sometimes
2. Scarecrow
3. Can’t Tell Your Heart Who To Beat For
4. Life’s About Now

The “Scarecrow” EP offers a more focused collection, highlighting her songwriting on tracks like the introspective title song.

For those eager to experience Lacy J. Dalton’s enduring talent live, she continues to maintain an active touring schedule:

Lacy J. Dalton’s Upcoming Tour Dates:

• MAY 17 – Dayton Community Center / Dayton, Nev.
• JUN 04 – Country For A Cause at 3rd & Lindsley / Nashville, Tenn.
• JUL 12 – Roberts Hawkins Amphitheater / Reno, Nev.
• JUL 26 – Red Dog Saloon / Virginia City, Nev.
• AUG 09 – Douglas County Senior Center / Gardnerville, Nev.
• NOV 30 – Sutter Creek Theater / Sutter Creek, Calif.
• DEC 21 – Red Dog Saloon / Virginia City, Nev.

These dates offer opportunities for fans across the country to witness the power and emotion of her live performances firsthand, connecting with the artist who has left an indelible mark on country music.

Lacy J. Dalton’s continued partnership with StarVista Music and her ongoing touring serve as a powerful reminder of her lasting impact on the genre. With the re-release of these significant albums and singles, a new generation can discover the artistry of a woman who helped shape the sound of country music in the 1980s and whose voice continues to resonate with authenticity and heart. Her journey is a testament to the enduring power of genuine country storytelling.