It’s Bourbon Heritage Month in 2024 and, as always, I take this moment to reflect on what bourbon means in the greater context of our lives. Last year, it was important for me to communicate that bourbon is for everyone and I still believe this more than ever.
This year, I find myself looking inward for words of wisdom. I’d like to share a story about how bourbon is a powerful force that binds us through the good times, bad times, and everything in between.
I have a friend that I’ve known for 30 years. Thinking back to when we met, it was the summer of 1994 and I was a freshly-minted college graduate on my first day at the office. One of the first people I met was Roger and I noticed that his desk was adorned with many interesting things. Most notably, there were things devoted to celebrating bourbon, and rock and roll. I knew we were destined to be fast friends. In his version of the story, which he often tells my kids, I was a “wet behind the ears” new guy that had a lot to learn.
What followed is a blur of concerts, adventures, memories, and a whole lot of bourbon. For those who may not know me, every fiber of my being believes there is a magical connection between music and bourbon. On my journey, I have invested as much time as possible in exploring and showcasing why this is a good thing. Hell, I’ve lived it from the cheap seats, front row, and even backstage a time or two. For a great percentage of most of that, Roger was right there with me.
It’s easy to navigate the good times in life, especially with something like bourbon to help as a social lubricant. Lately, I find myself reflecting on the times that challenge us. Roger and I have been through our fair share of individual stormy seas of late, but then we still find a way to share a bourbon and a concert. We always have a great time and that’s all that matters. There are still many shows to see and plenty of bourbon to share. This story will continue!
The other night I was enjoying a comfortable Southern California evening by a roaring fire pit and an amazing bourbon (Whiskey Jypsi Explorer if you must know). Bourbon Heritage Month was on my mind.
I was considering the many wonderful events happening this month to highlight bourbon. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is always an incredible opportunity to experience bourbon like no other event around. In addition, there is Bourbon and Beyond, which melds the world of music and bourbon together. I’ve set a goal for myself to attend Bourbon & Beyond soon and was browsing the incredible line up of bands for this year. Lyle Lovett happened to catch my eye, so I spent the evening exploring his music. He’s got this great tune called “L.A. County” and the chorus goes like this; “And the lights of L.A. County / They look like diamonds in the sky / When you’re driving through the hours / With an old friend at your side.”
As a native Californian who has lived his entire life in Los Angeles, I consider this to be a special place. For those who don’t live here, I can imagine how the lights in those hills do look like diamonds.
And the lights of L.A. County
They look like diamonds in the sky
When you’re driving through the hours
With an old friend at your side
“L.A. County” by Lyle Lovett
In closing, I want you to consider something. As you navigate your own life and times, I hope that you have a friend like Roger in your life. Bourbon Heritage Month is as good a time as any to call up your good friends, rekindle an older friendship, or to even make some new friends. No matter what you do, share a bourbon and make memories.
That’s the enduring beauty of bourbon, music, and the ties that bind us.
