In the 1980s Russell made four albums credited to the Tom Russell Band. These featured Andrew Hardin and accordionist Fats Kaplin.
In the 1990s Russell made a number of solo albums, collaborated with blues singer Barrence Whitfield on two albums, and also recorded an acoustic album mixing original material with his favorite cowboy-themed songs. His albums include several guest appearances from other folk, country, and Americana artists, such as Chris Gaffney and Dave Alvin. His song "Outbound Plane", co-written with Nanci Griffith, became a Top Ten country hit for Suzy Bogguss. His most significant album from this period is the 1999 folk opera, The Man From God Knows Where.
His more recent albums include "Blood and Candle Smoke" (2009) and "Mesabi" (2011).
Annette
Tom Russell Lyrics
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She dances a deadly pirouette
Little Julianne from Kellimat
Her working name
The lyrics of Tom Russell's song "Annette" is quite intriguing and thought-provoking. The song depicts a very deep and melancholic story about a young girl named Julianne, who works in the red-light district of Vancouver. The song describes how Julianne dances a "deadly pirouette" on Nelson Street near Granville, which suggests that her situation is quite precarious and risky. It is clear that Julianne is not comfortable with her work, and the use of the word "working name" implies that Julianne’s identity is obscured or concealed.
The reference to Kellimat further implies that Julianne's journey has been far from easy. Kellimat referred to a children's correctional facility located in BC, which was known for mistreatment and abuses. Hence, it is clear that Julianne comes from an unfortunate background and circumstances that led her to work in the red-light district. The melancholic tone of the song is further driven by the idea that Julianne is forced to sell her body just to survive, and the sense of hopelessness and despair that she likely feels.
Line by Line Meaning
On Nelson Street near Granville
The location of the song's setting is on Nelson Street, close to Granville.
She dances a deadly pirouette
The singer is a dancer who performs dangerous acrobatic moves.
Little Julianne from Kellimat
The dancer's actual name is Julianne, and she comes from a place called Kellimat.
Her working name
The dancer goes by a different name when she's working.
Contributed by Adam H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@albrock87
Had been years since I heard this song! So glad you uploaded it Ron - was impossible to find!