Texas Time Travel

The Flatlanders

The Flatlanders were the short-lived project of Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Joe Ely, and Butch Hancock. Having banded together in 1972, this trio of childhood friends from Lubbock never found commercial success during their first iteration, but as they picked up steam with their solo careers, fans rediscovered the band’s original music.

Until Joe Ely’s passing in 2025, the band would periodically record and reunite for performances.

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Pictured: Flatlanders members Butch Hancock, Joe Ely, and Jimmie Dale Gilmore.
Credit: The Flatlanders

Why They Matter

The Flatlanders were the progenitors of “cosmic country,” introducing the minimalist, burgeoning Americana sound and rootsy storytelling to a small audience. Over time, their approach would become deeply influential, anticipating a broader movement that blended country, folk, and countercultural spirit into something innovative.

Signature Sound & Style

Gilmore's distinctive vocals, along with the trio's intuitive interplay, stripped-down arrangements, and crystalline instrumentation, captured the Flatlanders' evocative West Texas aesthetic in an experimental blend of folk, country, and subtle psychedelia.

Must-Know Songs

1. "Dallas" – Originally a commercial failure, this haunting 1972 track from All American Music features Steve Wesson playing the musical saw
2. "Tonight, I Think I’m Gonna Go Downtown” – Also from All American Music, quintessentially Texan, with stellar dobro playing from Joe Ely
3. “After the Storm” – From their 2009 release, Hills and Valleys


[HEAR THESE FLATLANDERS TRACKS ON THE PLAINS TRAIL REGIONAL PLAYLIST]

Did You Know?

The Flatlanders won the New Folk Singer/Songwriter prize at the inaugural Kerrville Folk Festival in 1972, one of their first-ever performances. Their debut album, All American Music, was recorded the same year then shelved following a limited release on 8-track tape. Despite the lack of early mainstream success, interest in the band reignited with the 1990 re-release of their debut album.

Take a Deep Dive

Read a more in-depth history of the impact of Texas musicians on rock-n-roll.

The Handbook to Texas Music