Almost Almost Famous: The Tall Tales Behind the Stories from a Lifetime Spent Chasing Roots Music Paperback – April 1, 2026

(Almost) Almost Famous is a collection of stories, essays and memories showcasing Red Dirt, Americana, roots rock and independent country music through the eyes and notes of journalist Josh Crutchmer. The authorsays: These are tales from my days in the wings, behind the scenes, and in the crowd. We’ll dodge an Oklahoma summer storm with Wyatt Flores and stumble upon the news of last year’s Cross Canadian Ragweed reunion in the most random way possible. I’ll tell you about how an act of professionalism with Turnpike Troubadours changed everything for me. We’ll assess the bandwagon of Kaitlin Butts and smoke weed with Margo Price. Vandoliers and Jenni Rose will tug at your heartstrings, and we’ll walk through a new record with Ryan Bingham. We’ll go catfish noodling with Koe Wetzel and into the studio with Whiskey Myers. We’ll ride Charley Crockett’s bus after the Houston Rodeo, and we’ll learn how to navigate independent music from American Aquarium. (We may have a word for those who don’t exactly enjoy our work, too). There will be exceptions: The book turns serious by including the final interview given by the late Todd Snider. It also features a catch-up with the iconic Robert Earl Keen at age 70. Read more