The musical scene in Mazatlan is not a highly varied one. It is dominated by banda, banda, and more banda. I am starting to develop an appreciation, if not an affection, for this music that mixes traditional Mexican sound with an entire brass section and an accordion, giving a very German oom pah pah flavor. The next largest segment of music is cover bands who do American 60's, 70's, and 80's rock. I have heard every possible variation of Hotel California. Sometimes, I think if I hear that song one more time, my ears may start to bleed. I am so hugely grateful for my satellite radio.

My XM radio is how I keep my musical sanity and how I keep up on all the music that just isn't available here. Reception is really good in some areas and non-existent in others. We put an antenna on the roof at home, so we get clear reception in the house. The car is another story. If we are driving along the ocean, no problem. But if we are in town where we are frequently between concrete buildings or under power lines, the music comes and goes. It can be annoying sometimes, but it is still usually better than the local radio alternatives.

I listen to a little bit of everything, but I find the older I get, the less patience I have for screaming, dissonance, and the word bitches. So more and more, I find myself listening to country. I still like my country to rock, but it is country nonetheless. My XM radio is usually set to Highway 16.

Chuck and I were out running errands the other day when I heard yet another Kid Rock song on the country music station. I still remember Kid Rock as a hip hop and rap musician. I was totally surprised back in 2001 when his duet with Sheryl Crow, "Picture", got massive airplay on all the country stations. I was even more surprised that I liked it very much. Since then, Kid Rock has had a lot of songs getting airplay on the country stations. Songs like "Cold and Empty", "I Am", and "Single Father". This latest song is a new version of "Sweet Home Alabama" remixed with new lyrics. I guess, like me, Kid Rock is mellowing with age.

I remember a while back that there was a lot of gossip going around that Kid Rock was Hank Williams Jr.'s son. I suppose that sprang from their improbable but very close relationship. Kindred souls. Hank has referred to Kid Rock as his son several times, but while Kid Rock may be Hank's spiritual son, there is no biological connection.

So why have I written this rambling and seemingly pointless post? And why have you even read this far? Well, it's all actually just to get around to sharing this YouTube video with you, which I hope will give you a smile.