Will Oldham a.k.a. Bonnie “Prince” Billy is not only known as a man of many names, but also as an artist crossing many genres. Freak folk, Americana, indie rock, punk and roots are some of the labels put on his music. Out of the many sounds heard in his songs, alt-country and outlaw country may be some of the most influential. Oldham has often paid tribute to music he enjoys, but this time around he is honoring one of his major influences: American country music legend Merle Haggard.
Performing a beautifully spare rendition of Haggard’s “Because of Your Eyes,” Oldham’s soulful voice is the focus of the track. Featured on the limited run 7″ vinyl release Haggard Harper Bonnie, it is the inaugural release for the Spiritual Pajamas label. Have a listen below (via TwentyFourBit) and then check out the live version from December 2010.
Bonnie “Prince” Billy – Because of Your Eyes (Merle Haggard cover)
Bonnie “Prince” Billy – Because of Your Eyes(Merle Haggard cover- live Dec. 2010)
For more information on Bonnie “Prince” Billy visit his website.