Leavin' on a Jet Plane

DAY 1, continued: (Johnny) We're about two hours away from LAX.

I was fortunate to sit next to Joe, with his Netbook stacked with great music movies. So far, we’ve watched Chet Atkins play Mr. Sandman, Jerry's Breakdown with Jerry Reed, and San Antonio Rose with Jethro Burns on mandolin.

The energy, joy, and passion in their style make me want to either belly-up and get to playin', or pack it in and become a soda jerk.

Then a two-hour dose of Ken Burns's Jazz 1937-1939. Great chapters filled with history and inspiration.Time flies.

American Airlines made check-in a pleasure, even with Brian's new bass case which we each have nicknamed in our own fashion: “Moby Dick,” “The Refrigerator,” “The Tip of the Iceberg,” and my personal favorite, “Brian's Ark.” It's a light and durable case, custom-made, and as white as new December snow.

I believe it may be seaworthy. If we miss a flight, we'll plan to climb on top, shove off into the Pacific, and row with both guitars.

Stay tuned! More pictures soon.

Take the "C" Train!

DAY 1: (Johnny) Headed downtown on the C train. What have I forgotten? What comforts of my life have I neglected to squirrel away in my backpack? The way I'm combing my mind, you'd think I was leaving the planet instead of just going to the other side of it. I have to remind myself constantly that this tour is not about deodorant, shaving cream, movies for the long plane rides, clothing, or even me. It's about music - American music - and its incredible history and power. And people: people who have, perhaps, never met Americans or have never heard our music. It's about finding the common beat and singing and dancing and joining human spirits in joyous song. The music and the message are within our hearts. We can buy more socks.

It's the Final Countdown!

Watch this while we pack!