One of The True Founding Fathers of Austin’s Progressive Country Scene—Gary P. Nunn

Willie Nelson, Townes Van Zandt, Merle Haggard, and Guy Clark are a few of the names we often associate with Austin’s ’70s progressive country music scene. Even though these musicians had a major stake and influence in the genre, they are not considered one of the premier founding fathers. That title goes to the lesser-known Gary P. Nunn.

Some Nunn songs you might know are “London Homesick Blues” and “What I Like About Texas.” And even though he had quite the solo career, his stamp on Austin’s progressive country scene is without question the cemented stamp of his innovative legacy.

Frankly, if it wasn’t for Nunn, who knows if Willie Nelson would have gotten the chance to leave Nashville? Who knows if Townes Van Zandt would have gotten the chance to sing his songs in bars and pool halls? Who know if Outlaw music in general would have ever been a thing? There is no saying truly what would have happened. Though, at least we don’t have to entertain the idea.

Gary P. Nunn’s Stint With Some Founding Country Bands

A feat as large as this one can not be achieved by an individual party. Hence, Gary P. Nunn was able to craft such a movement with the help of two separate bands, The Lost Gonzo Band and The Lavender Hill Express. Regarding the latter, The Lavender Hill Express was a popular group before the beginning of the “cosmic cowboy movement” and formed in the late ’60s.

Accompanied by band members Rusty Weir and Jim Chestnut, Nunn, and the band were able to create a progressive sound not yet entirely integrated into popular country music. Subsequently, Nunn joined yet another founding ban with another founding father, Jerry Jeff Walker. The Lost Gonzo Band, comprised of Nunn, Walker, Bob Livingston, and John Inmon, were the true trailblazers of Austin’s Outlaw country music scene. As their popularity grew immensely with the album, ¡Viva Terlingua!

Between The Lavender Hill Express and The Lost Gonzo Band, Nunn and company were able to open the doors for some of the more notable Outlaw and progressive country musicians. Particularly Nelson, Haggard, and Waylon Jennings, as they popularized the scene when they joined in the early ’70s.

Thanks to Nunn’s work in the movement, the man made his Grand Ole Opry Debut in 2019. Furthermore, The Country Music Hall of Fame selected Nunn for their Outlaws and Armadillos exhibit. In totality, everyone must thank Gary P. Nunn for his ambition, eagerness, and confidence to create a rebellious and stand-alone subgenre.

Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images for Shock Ink