Mike Beck / Cowboy Storyteller & Musician

Recently a good friend sent me an email about an old friend of his, a man named Mike Beck, who was performing at a house concert. He said that we should definitely go see him. My friend also provided contact information for the concert organizer and told me that Mike would be expecting us.

So, I called the number and left a message. Next day, a woman called me and gave me the particulars. It turns out the concert was at a ranch owned by one of the “Old Families” in our area. Most of the audience comprised rural & semi-rural folks. Very interesting and quite different from the people we see every day.

The concert was behind the ranch house, with views of rolling hills (dotted with cows and horses, no less) — very appropriate given that Mr. Beck is a “real cowboy.” He trains working horses that are used by cattle ranchers. Another world, one vastly different from mine.

His stories were vivid, detailed, and focused on the rural parts of the state. Several of Beck’s songs were sung from a horse’s point of view. Several were very poignant. He’s a good guitar player with a light touch. His voice is strong and clear. If you get a chance you ought to see him perform.