This interview and performance presents a unique window into the life and times of singer-songwriter Chris Gantry, one of Nashville’s great characters and true artists. Gantry—among the artists featured in the Museum’s exhibition “Outlaws & Armadillos: Country’s Roaring ’70s”—expounds here on his writing craft and philosophies, offering a full dose of his poetic, Lawrence Ferlinghetti-like sensibilities and attitude.

Chris Gantry moved to Nashville from New York City in the 1960s and helped spearhead a songwriter scene that came to include Kris Kristofferson, Mickey Newbury, Shel Silverstein, and other renegades. Gantry found success with “Dreams of the Everyday Housewife” (famously recorded in 1968 by Country Music Hall of Fame member Glen Campbell, and released as the first single from Campbell’s “Wichita Lineman” album), and his idiosyncratic, structurally sophisticated songs found favor with many singers, including now-Hall of Fame members Kristofferson, Johnny Cash, Roy Clark, and Reba McEntire.

Following an introduction from the museum’s Peter Cooper, Gantry performs numerous songs over his hour-long Songwriter Session. Highlights included “Dreams of the Everyday Housewife,” “Vince” (about his late great running buddy, Vince Matthews), and “The Old Songwriter” (about the joys and struggles inherent in a lifetime of music).

Presented in support of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum exhibition "Outlaws & Armadillos: Country’s Roaring ʼ70s" (May 25, 2018, through June 5, 2022).

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