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{{Short description|American guitarist}}
{{Short description|American guitarist (born 1968)}}
{{distinguish|Charlie Saxton}}
{{distinguish|Charlie Saxton}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2020}}


{{Infobox musical artist
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Charlie Sexton
| name = Charlie Sexton
| image = Charlie Sexton.jpg
| image = Charlie Sexton.jpg
| caption =
| caption =
| birth_name = Charles Wayne Sexton
| birth_name = Charles Wayne Sexton
| image_size =
| image_size =
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1968|08|11}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1968|08|11}}
| origin = [[Austin, Texas|Austin]], Texas, U.S.
⚫
| death_date =
| origin = [[San Antonio]], Texas, U.S.
| instrument = Guitar, vocals
⚫
| genre = [[Blues rock]], rock, [[blues]], <br>[[New wave music|new wave]] <small>(early work)</small>
| instrument = Guitar
| occupation = Musician, producer
⚫
| genre = Rock, [[blues]], [[folk music|folk]],<br>[[New wave music|new wave]] <small>(early work)</small>
| occupation = Musician
| years_active = 1982–present
⚫
| label = [[Virgin Records|Back Porch Records]], [[MCA Records]]
| years_active = 1982–present
⚫
| associated_acts = [[Bob Dylan]], [[David Bowie]], [[Arc Angels]], [[Los Super Seven]]
⚫
| label = [[Virgin Records|Back Porch Records]], [[MCA Records]]
⚫
| website =
⚫
| associated_acts = [[Bob Dylan]], [[David Bowie]], [[Arc Angels]], [[Los Super Seven]]
| website = [http://www.charliesexton.com charliesexton.com]
}}
}}


'''Charles Wayne Sexton''' (born August 11, 1968) is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Sexton is best known for the 1985 solo hit "Beat's So Lonely," for his work with the band [[Arc Angels]], and for his membership of [[Bob Dylan]]'s backing band.
'''Charles Wayne Sexton''' (born August 11, 1968) is an American guitarist, singer and songwriter. Sexton is best known for his years as a guitarist in [[Bob Dylan]]'s band, though also has become well known as a music producer. Sexton co-founded [[Arc Angels]] and created the Charlie Sexton Sextet. He was still a teenager when he gained fame for his 1985 hit, "Beat's So Lonely", from his debut album, ''[[Pictures for Pleasure]]''.


==Biography==
==Biography==
When he was four Charlie and his mother relocated from [[San Antonio]], Texas to [[Austin, Texas|Austin]]—where clubs such as the [[Armadillo World Headquarters]], Soap Creek Saloon, The Split Rail and [[Clifford Antone|Antone's Blues Club]] exposed him to popular music. He moved back to Austin at the age of 12 after a brief period living outside Austin with his mother. When Charlie and his brother Will Sexton were still young boys they were taught how to play guitar by the local Austin legend [[W. C. Clark]]—known as the "Godfather of Austin Blues."<ref>[https://www.pbs.org/klru/austin/artists/program353.html Stevie Ray Vaughan followed by W. C. Clark Blues Revue], PBS. Retrieved September 13, 2015.</ref>
When he was four, Charlie and his mother relocated from [[San Antonio]], Texas to [[Austin, Texas|Austin]]—where clubs such as the [[Armadillo World Headquarters]], Soap Creek Saloon, the Split Rail and [[Clifford Antone|Antone's]] exposed him to popular music. He moved back to Austin at age 12 after a brief period living outside Austin with his mother. When Charlie and his brother, Will Sexton, were still young boys, they were taught how to play guitar by Austin legend [[W. C. Clark]]—known as the "Godfather of Austin Blues."<ref>[https://www.pbs.org/klru/austin/artists/program353.html Stevie Ray Vaughan followed by W. C. Clark Blues Revue], PBS. Retrieved September 13, 2015.</ref>


===Early successes===
===Early successes===
Charlie's first band was called "The Groovemasters." The band was fronted by Lubbock native R.C. Banks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://guitarinternational.com/2011/08/08/charlie-sexton-interview-part-i-how-to-session-with-bob-dylan/|title=Charlie Sexton Interview Part I: How To Session With Bob Dylan|website=Guitar International Magazine|access-date=2020-01-21}}</ref> Under the moniker "Little Charlie" he played around 16 dates with the [[Joe Ely Band]] in June 1982 after guitarist Jesse Taylor broke some bones in his hand. An observer at the time commented: "Several older guitar players are somewhat miffed but the chemistry is A+".<ref>{{cite web|author=Rob Mahoney |url=http://www.pontybone.com/journal.htm |title=Ponty Bone's Journal |publisher=[[Pontybone.com]] |date=October 7, 1979 |access-date=October 20, 2015}}</ref>
Charlie's first band was the Groovemasters, fronted by Lubbock native R.C. Banks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://guitarinternational.com/2011/08/08/charlie-sexton-interview-part-i-how-to-session-with-bob-dylan/|title=Charlie Sexton Interview Part I: How To Session With Bob Dylan|website=Guitar International Magazine|access-date=2020-01-21}}</ref> Under the moniker Little Charlie, he played about 16 dates with the [[Joe Ely Band]] in June 1982, after guitarist Jesse Taylor broke some bones in his hand. An observer at the time commented, "Several older guitar players are somewhat miffed but the chemistry is A+".<ref>{{cite web|author=Rob Mahoney |url=http://www.pontybone.com/journal.htm |title=Ponty Bone's Journal |publisher=[[Pontybone.com]] |date=October 7, 1979 |access-date=October 20, 2015}}</ref>


Sexton—under the name "Guitar Charles Sexton"—appeared on a five-song EP by the group '''Maxwell''' (a.k.a. the Eager Beaver Boys) in 1983. Entitled ''Juvenile Junk'' the EP's credits list the following musicians: Maxwell (lead vocals), Charles Sexton (guitars, backup vocals), Alex Buttersworth Napier (bass, backup vocals, maracas), and Gary Muddkatt Smith (drums, backup vocals, claves).{{citation needed|date=September 2015}}
Sexton performed under the name Guitar Charles Sexton on ''Juvenile Junk,'' a five-song EP by the group Maxwell (a.k.a. the Eager Beaver Boys) in 1983.{{citation needed|date=September 2015}}


Sexton released his debut full-length album ''[[Pictures for Pleasure]]'' in 1985. Recorded in Los Angeles when he was 16 years old it yielded the Top 20 [[hit single]] "Beat's So Lonely." Pareles of the ''New York Times'' described him as: "a teen idol singing David Bowie-style rock during the years he was promoted by MTV."<ref name="Pareles">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/04/27/arts/in-performance-pop-music-903095.html|title=In Performance; pop music. In the Third Phase Of a 10-Year-Old Career Charlie Sexton Sextet Mercury Lounge|author=Jon Pareles|author-link=Jon Pareles|date=April 27, 1995|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=April 28, 2012}}</ref> The album spawned three Australian-Top 100 singles—with "Beat's So Lonely" peaking at number 17.<ref name=aus>{{cite book|last=Kent|first=David|author-link=David Kent (historian)|title=Australian Chart Book 1970–1992|edition=illustrated|publisher=Australian Chart Book|location=St Ives, N.S.W.|year=1993|isbn=0-646-11917-6|page=269}}</ref> "Beat's So Lonely" featured prominently in the hit movie "Some Kind of Wonderful" but was not included in the commercial soundtrack. <ref>{{Citation|title=Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) - IMDb|url=http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094006/soundtrack|access-date=2022-02-10}}</ref>
Sexton released his debut full-length album ''[[Pictures for Pleasure]]'' in 1985. Recorded in Los Angeles when he was 16, it yielded the Top-20 [[hit single]] "Beat's So Lonely".<ref>[https://www.allmusic.com/song/beats-so-lonely-mt0008479399 Beats So Lonely] Retrieved 19 November 2022</ref> [[Jon Pareles]] of the ''New York Times'' described him as "a teen idol singing David Bowie-style rock during the years he was promoted by MTV".<ref name="Pareles">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/04/27/arts/in-performance-pop-music-903095.html|title=In Performance; pop music. In the Third Phase Of a 10-Year-Old Career Charlie Sexton Sextet Mercury Lounge|author=Jon Pareles|author-link=Jon Pareles|date=April 27, 1995|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=April 28, 2012}}</ref> The album spent 34 weeks on [[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] magazine's [[Billboard 200]] albums chart, reaching No. 15.<ref>{{Cite magazine |title=Charlie Sexton |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/charlie-sexton/ |access-date=2022-07-12 |magazine=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref> It also spawned three Australian Top-100 singles—with "Beat's So Lonely" peaking at No. 17.<ref name=aus>{{cite book|last=Kent|first=David|author-link=David Kent (historian)|title=Australian Chart Book 1970–1992|edition=illustrated|publisher=Australian Chart Book|location=St Ives, N.S.W.|year=1993|isbn=0-646-11917-6|page=269}}</ref> The song was featured in the movie ''[[Some Kind of Wonderful (film)|Some Kind of Wonderful]]'', but was not included on the commercial soundtrack.


Charlie was an occasional opening act for [[David Bowie]] on his [[Glass Spider Tour]] in 1987. Sexton appears on the ''[[Glass Spider]]'' home video playing guitar on [[The Stooges]]' "[[I Wanna Be Your Dog]]" and the [[Velvet Underground]]'s "[[White Light/White Heat (song)|White Light/White Heat]]."
Sexton was an occasional opening act for [[David Bowie]] on his [[Glass Spider Tour]] in 1987, and appears on the ''[[Glass Spider]]'' video playing guitar on [[The Stooges]]' "[[I Wanna Be Your Dog]]" and the [[Velvet Underground]]'s "[[White Light/White Heat (song)|White Light/White Heat]]".


While he was still in his late teens Charlie became a popular session player—recording with artists such as [[Ronnie Wood]], [[Keith Richards]], [[Don Henley]], [[Jimmy Barnes]] and Bob Dylan. He eventually followed up his debut with the self-titled album ''Charlie Sexton--'' recorded when he was 20 years old.{{citation needed|date=September 2015}}
While he was still in his late teens, Sexton became a popular session player—recording with artists such as [[Ronnie Wood]], [[Keith Richards]], [[Don Henley]], [[Jimmy Barnes]] and Bob Dylan.


He also recorded with the artist that gave him his start—playing on R.C. Banks' "My Time Album."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/my-time-mw0000265983/credits|title=My Time - R.C. Banks {{!}} Credits|website=AllMusic|language=en-us|access-date=2020-01-21}}</ref>
He also recorded ''My Time'' with the artist who gave him his start—R.C. Banks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/my-time-mw0000265983/credits|title=My Time - R.C. Banks {{!}} Credits|website=AllMusic|language=en-us|access-date=2020-01-21}}</ref>


===Other projects===
===Other projects===
Sexton worked for a time with his brother Will Sexton in 1988.<ref name="Moser">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/04/27/arts/in-performance-pop-music-903095.html|title=Charlie and Will Sexton; Family Circle|author=Margaret Moser|newspaper=[[The Austin Chronicle]]|volume=16|issue=16|access-date=April 28, 2012}}</ref> '''Will and the Kill''' released a 38-minute self-titled album featuring both Sexton and [[Jimmie Vaughan]]. The album was recorded at the Fire Station Studio and produced by [[Joe Ely]] and released via [[MCA Records]].
Sexton worked for a time with his brother Will Sexton in 1988.<ref name="Moser">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/04/27/arts/in-performance-pop-music-903095.html|title=Charlie and Will Sexton; Family Circle|author=Margaret Moser|newspaper=[[The Austin Chronicle]]|date=April 27, 1995 |volume=16|issue=16|access-date=April 28, 2012}}</ref> [[Will and the Kill]] released a 38-minute, self-titled album featuring both Sexton and [[Jimmie Vaughan]]. The album was recorded at Fire Station Studios<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Hendricks |first=Diana Finlay |editor-last=Skanse |editor-first=Richard |title=Songs & Stories of San Marcos: Fire Station Studios |url=https://lonestarmusicmagazine.com/songs-stories-of-san-marcos-fire-station-studios/ |journal=Lonestar Music Magazine |publication-date=2013-03-01 |volume=6 |issue=2}}</ref> in [[San Marcos, Texas]], with [[Joe Ely]] producing, and released via [[MCA Records]].
[[File:ARC_Angels_Ron_Baker_1.jpg|thumb|right|Sexton (right) performing with Arc Angels in 2009]]
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Sexton later contributed songs to various [[movie soundtrack|motion picture soundtracks]], including ''[[True Romance]]'' and ''[[Air America (film)|Air America]]—''and made a [[cameo appearance|cameo]] fronting a bar band in ''[[Thelma & Louise]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smyers |first=Darryl |title=Charlie Sexton |url=https://www.dallasobserver.com/music/charlie-sexton-6374070 |access-date=2022-07-07 |website=Dallas Observer |language=en}}</ref>


In 1992, Sexton formed the [[Arc Angels]] with [[Doyle Bramhall II]] (son of [[Doyle Bramhall]], one of [[Stevie Ray Vaughan]]'s writing partners), and Vaughan's [[Double Trouble (band)|Double Trouble]] rhythm section, composed of bassist [[Tommy Shannon]] and drummer [[Chris Layton|Chris "Whipper" Layton]].<ref name="Pareles" /> The name originally was spelled as ARC Angels, named for the Austin Rehearsal Complex, where they practiced.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tyner |first=Lindsey |title=Founder's Message |url=https://simsfoundation.org/about-us/founders-message/ |access-date=2022-07-12 |website=SIMS Foundation |date=January 12, 2011 |language=en-US}}</ref> The blues-rock band released a self-titled album on [[Geffen Records]] that same year.<ref>{{Citation |title=The Arc Angels - Arc Angels Album Reviews, Songs & More {{!}} AllMusic |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/arc-angels-mw0000275769 |language=en |access-date=2022-07-07}}</ref> The [[Little Steven|Steven Van Zandt]]-produced disc was well received by fans and critics, but the band broke up in less than three years.
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Sexton later contributed songs to various [[movie soundtrack|motion picture soundtracks]] including: ''[[True Romance]]'' and ''[[Air America (film)|Air America]]--'' and made a [[cameo appearance|cameo]] fronting a bar band in ''[[Thelma & Louise]]''.{{citation needed|date=September 2015}}


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Sexton formed the Charlie Sexton Sextet in 1995<ref name="Pareles" /> and recorded ''Under The Wishing Tree,'' released on [[MCA Records]].<ref>{{Citation |title=Charlie Sexton Sextet - Under the Wishing Tree Album Reviews, Songs & More {{!}} AllMusic |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/under-the-wishing-tree-mw0000628142 |language=en |access-date=2022-07-07}}</ref> Although sales were disappointing, it was met with critical acclaim.{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} In the meantime, Sexton continued to perform with other artists—appearing on such notable albums as [[Lucinda Williams]]' ''[[Car Wheels on a Gravel Road]]'' and [[Shawn Colvin]]'s [[Grammy]]-winning album ''[[A Few Small Repairs]]'' (uncredited).{{citation needed|date=September 2015}}
Sexton, along with [[Doyle Bramhall II]] (son of [[Stevie Ray Vaughan]]'s writing partner [[Doyle Bramhall]]), [[Tommy Shannon]], and Chris "Whipper" Layton (both from Double Trouble, [[Stevie Ray Vaughan]]'s famed rhythm section) formed the [[Arc Angels]] in 1992,.<ref name="Pareles" /> The blues/rock band recorded and released a self-titled album on [[Geffen Records]] that same year.{{citation needed|date=September 2015}} The [[Little Steven|Steven Van Zandt]]-produced disc was well received by fans and critics. However, due to internal strife, including lack of communication (all members involved) and drug abuse (Bramhall), the band broke up in less than three years.

⚫
Next was the Charlie Sexton Sextet in 1995.<ref name="Pareles" /> ''Under The Wishing Tree'' was released on [[MCA Records]]. Although sales were disappointing it was met with critical acclaim. In the meantime, Sexton continued to perform with other artists—appearing on such notable albums as: [[Lucinda Williams]]' ''[[Car Wheels on a Gravel Road]]'' and [[Shawn Colvin]]'s [[Grammy]]-winning album ''[[A Few Small Repairs]]'' (uncredited).{{citation needed|date=September 2015}}


===Association with Bob Dylan===
===Association with Bob Dylan===
Sexton was hired by Bob Dylan to replace [[Bucky Baxter]] in 1999. Sexton had previously played with Dylan during a pair of [[Austin, Texas]], concerts in 1991 & 1996, and on some demos recorded in 1983. Sexton's residency with Dylan from 1999 to 2002 brought him great exposure—with many critics singling-out his interplay with [[Larry Campbell (musician)|Larry Campbell]]. Hailed as one of Dylan's best bands the group recorded ''Things Have Changed'' (from the 2000 film ''[[Wonder Boys (film)|Wonder Boys]]'') and 2001's critically acclaimed album ''[["Love and Theft"|Love and Theft]]''.
Sexton was hired by Bob Dylan to replace [[Bucky Baxter]] in 1999.{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} Sexton had previously played with Dylan during a pair of [[Austin, Texas]], concerts in 1991 and 1996, and on some demos recorded in 1983. Sexton's residency with Dylan from 1999 to 2002 brought him great exposure—with many critics singling out his interplay with [[Larry Campbell (musician)|Larry Campbell]].{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} The group, hailed as one of Dylan's best, recorded "[[Things Have Changed]]" (from the 2000 film ''[[Wonder Boys (film)|Wonder Boys]]'') and 2001's critically acclaimed{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} album ''[["Love and Theft"|Love and Theft]]''.


[[Duke Robillard]] took over on lead guitar in Dylan's touring band In 2013 but was let go after just 27 shows. Sexton and [[Colin Linden]] subsequently began lead guitar duties for the band from July and into early August. By the third leg of the [[Never Ending Tour 2013|2013 Never Ending Tour]] which took place in Europe Sexton again became the sole lead guitar player and remained so through the end of the touring year.<ref>Rogovoy, Seth. ''Bob Dylan: Prophet, Mystic, Poet.'' Simon and Schuster (2009). {{ISBN|9781416559832}} p. 277</ref>
[[Duke Robillard]] took over on lead guitar in Dylan's touring band In 2013 but was let go after just 27 shows. Sexton and [[Colin Linden]] subsequently shared lead guitar duties for the band from July and into early August. By the European leg of the [[Never Ending Tour 2013|2013 Never Ending Tour]], Sexton again became the sole lead guitar player and remained so through the end of the touring year.<ref>Rogovoy, Seth. ''Bob Dylan: Prophet, Mystic, Poet.'' Simon and Schuster (2009). {{ISBN|9781416559832}} p. 277</ref>


===Other activity===
===Other activity===
Sexton continued working with other artists—producing [[Double Trouble (band)|Double Trouble]]'s ''Been a Long Time'' and [[Lucinda Williams]]'s ''Essence--''both released in 2001. He is credited as the producer of [[Jimmie Vaughan]]'s album ''Do You Get the Blues?'' (2001).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/do-you-get-the-blues-mw0000013081/credits|title=Do You Get the Blues? – Jimmie Vaughan – Credits – AllMusic|publisher=[[AllMusic]]|access-date=September 2, 2018}}</ref>
Sexton continued working with other artists; in 2001, he produced [[Double Trouble (band)|Double Trouble]]'s ''Been a Long Time,'' and [[Jimmie Vaughan]]'s album ''Do You Get the Blues?'' (2001).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/do-you-get-the-blues-mw0000013081/credits|title=Do You Get the Blues? – Jimmie Vaughan – Credits – AllMusic|publisher=[[AllMusic]]|access-date=September 2, 2018}}</ref>


Sexton has produced numerous other works: [[Edie Brickell]]'s ''Volcano'' (2003), [[Jon Dee Graham]]'s ''Great Battle'' (2004), [[Shannon McNally]]'s ''Geronimo'' (2005), and [[Los Super Seven]]'s ''Heard It on the X'' (2005).
Sexton has produced numerous other works, including [[Edie Brickell]]'s ''Volcano'' (2003), [[Jon Dee Graham]]'s ''Great Battle'' (2004), [[Shannon McNally]]'s ''Geronimo'' (2005), and [[Los Super Seven]]'s ''Heard It on the X'' (2005).


He released his ''[[Cruel and Gentle Things]]'' album in late 2005.<ref>{{Citation |title=Charlie Sexton - Cruel and Gentle Things Album Reviews, Songs & More {{!}} AllMusic |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/cruel-and-gentle-things-mw0000310929 |language=en |access-date=2022-07-12}}</ref>
He released his {{As of|2020|03|1|alt=latest}} album ''Cruel and Gentle Things'' in late 2005'',''


He has continued his record-producing role for other artists—including 2007's ''[[Wall of Fire (album)|Wall of Fire]]'' by Canadian [[Peter Elkas]].<ref>Khanna, Vish. [http://www.exclaim.ca/musicreviews/woodwireswhiskey.aspx?csid1=108 "Woods, Wires and Whiskey"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410024536/http://www.exclaim.ca/musicreviews/woodwireswhiskey.aspx?csid1=108 |date=April 10, 2009 }}, Exclaim.ca, March 2007.</ref>
He has continued his producing albums for other artists—including Canadian singer-songwriter [[Peter Elkas]]' 2007 release, ''[[Wall of Fire (album)|Wall of Fire]]''.<ref>Khanna, Vish. [http://www.exclaim.ca/musicreviews/woodwireswhiskey.aspx?csid1=108 "Woods, Wires and Whiskey"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410024536/http://www.exclaim.ca/musicreviews/woodwireswhiskey.aspx?csid1=108 |date=April 10, 2009 }}, Exclaim.ca, March 2007.</ref>


The Arc Angels began playing occasional "reunion" shows around Austin and Dallas in 2002, In 2009 it was announced the band—with original members Layton and Bramhall (but not Shannon), would begin touring extensively – including a stint with [[Eric Clapton]] in England – and recording a second album, their first new studio album in 17 years.<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/269299/arc-angels-fly-again|title=Arc Angels Fly Again|author=Gary Graff|journal=Billboard|date=March 3, 2009}}</ref>
The Arc Angels began playing occasional reunion shows around Austin and Dallas in 2002. In 2009, the band announced it would tour with original members Layton and Bramhall, but not Shannon, who had health issues. The tour included England dates with Bramhall's sometime boss, [[Eric Clapton]]. The band also recorded the CD/DVD ''[[Living in a Dream (album)|Living in a Dream]]'', their second album in 17 years.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/269299/arc-angels-fly-again|title=Arc Angels Fly Again|author=Gary Graff|magazine=Billboard|date=March 3, 2009}}</ref>


Charlie played the guitar and sang alongside [[Justin Timberlake]] and [[Matt Morris (musician)|Matt Morris]]—performing Leonard Cohen's "[[Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen song)|Hallelujah]]" for the [[Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief|Hope For Haiti Now Benefit]] concert In 2010.<ref>Glenn Gamboa. [https://www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/hope-for-haiti-now-sets-records-1.1723084 "'Hope for Haiti Now' sets records."] ''Newsday.'' 25 January 2010. Retrieved 1 March 2020.</ref> The song marked Sexton's second appearance in ''Billboard'''s Hot 100 with a peak at No. 13.<ref>[https://www.billboard.com/artist/charlie-sexton/chart-history/hsi/ "Charlie Sexton: Chart History."] ''[[Billboard.com]]''. Retrieved 1 March 2020.</ref>
Sexton performed the [[Leonard Cohen]] song [[Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen song)|"Hallelujah"]] with [[Justin Timberlake]] and [[Matt Morris (musician)|Matt Morris]] at the [[Hope for Haiti Now]] benefit concert and telethon for earthquake relief In 2010.<ref>Glenn Gamboa. [https://www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/hope-for-haiti-now-sets-records-1.1723084 "'Hope for Haiti Now' sets records."] ''Newsday.'' 25 January 2010. Retrieved 1 March 2020.</ref> Released as a single, the song marked Sexton's second appearance on the [[Billboard Hot 100]] chart, where it reached No. 13.<ref>[https://www.billboard.com/artist/charlie-sexton/chart-history/hsi/ "Charlie Sexton: Chart History."] ''[[Billboard.com]]''. Retrieved 1 March 2020.</ref>


Charlie and Will Sexton made a rare appearance as a duo—opening for [[Roky Erickson]] and Okkervil River at the Paramount Theatre in Austin on April 24, 2010 . Sexton was also the guest performer for [[Conan O'Brien]]'s [[The Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour|Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour]] stop in Austin on May 14, 2010. Charlie appeared as a guest guitarist on the band [[Spoon (band)|Spoon]]'s performance on the television show ''[[Austin City Limits]]''. The episode premiered on PBS on October 9, 2010. Sexton appeared on one song, "Who Makes Your Money".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://acltv.com/artist/spoon/|title=Spoon on Austin City Limits|website=Austin City Limits|access-date=May 30, 2019}}</ref>
Charlie and Will Sexton made a rare appearance as a duo opening for [[Roky Erickson]] and [[Okkervil River]] at Austin's [[Paramount Theatre (Austin, Texas)|Paramount Theatre]] on April 24, 2010. Sexton was also the guest performer for [[Conan O'Brien]]'s [[The Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour|Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour]] stop in Austin on May 14, 2010. Sexton appeared with the band [[Spoon (band)|Spoon]] during their performance on the television show ''[[Austin City Limits]]''. The episode premiered on PBS on October 9, 2010. Sexton performed on the song, "Who Makes Your Money".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://acltv.com/artist/spoon/|title=Spoon on Austin City Limits|website=Austin City Limits|date=September 15, 2014 |access-date=May 30, 2019}}</ref>


Sexton, [[Jakob Dylan]], [[Brady Blade]], [[Dave Matthews]], and Sexton's brother Will recorded an album at Blade's studio in [[Shreveport, Louisiana]] in early 2013. The group subsequently became '''The Nauts.''' A release date for the album has not yet been announced.<ref name="Rolling Stone">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dave-matthews-forms-supergroup-with-jakob-dylan-20131216|title=Dave Matthews Heads New Supergroup with Jakob Dylan|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=December 16, 2013|access-date=September 13, 2015}}</ref>
Charlie and Will Sexton, [[Jakob Dylan]], [[Brady Blade]] and [[Dave Matthews]] recorded an album at Blade's studio in [[Shreveport, Louisiana]] in early 2013. The group named themselves the Nauts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-12-16 |title=Dave Matthews forms new band The Nauts |url=https://consequence.net/2013/12/dave-matthews-forms-new-band-the-nauts/ |access-date=2022-07-07 |website=Consequence |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="Rolling Stone">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/dave-matthews-forms-supergroup-with-jakob-dylan-20131216|title=Dave Matthews Heads New Supergroup with Jakob Dylan|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=December 16, 2013|access-date=September 13, 2015}}</ref> The album has not yet been released.


Sexton had a bit part in the movie ''[[Boyhood (2014 film)|Boyhood]]'' In 2014. In 2018 he appeared in the documentary film ''[[Carmine Street Guitars]]'' and played [[Townes Van Zandt]] in the movie ''[[Blaze (2018 film)|Blaze]]''. Also in 2018 he produced the album ''Writing Wrongs'' for '''The Last Knife Fighter''' at Arlyn Studios in [[Austin, Texas]]. He has played on guitar on the last two Jack Ingram records.
Sexton had a bit part in the [[Richard Linklater]] film ''[[Boyhood (2014 film)|Boyhood]],'' released in 2014 to near-universal acclaim. (The Guardian ranked it at No. 3 on its 2019 list of the top 100 films of the 21st century.)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-09-13 |title=The 100 best films of the 21st century |url=http://www.theguardian.com/film/2019/sep/13/100-best-films-movies-of-the-21st-century |access-date=2022-07-12 |website=the Guardian |language=en}}</ref> In 2018, Sexton appeared in the documentary film ''[[Carmine Street Guitars]]'' and played [[Townes Van Zandt]] in the movie ''[[Blaze (2018 film)|Blaze]]''. Also in 2018 he produced the album ''Writing Wrongs'' for the Last Knife Fighter at Arlyn Studios in [[Austin, Texas]].{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}} He has also played on guitar on the last two [[Jack Ingram]] records.{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}


Sexton appeared with [[Chuck Prophet]] during the latter's 2019 European tour, covering selections from the [[Rolling Stones]] ''Some Girls'' album.
Sexton appeared with [[Chuck Prophet]] during the latter's 2019 European tour, covering selections from the [[Rolling Stones]]' ''[[Some Girls]]'' album.{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}


Sexton joined [[Elvis Costello]] & the Imposters on their Hello Again 2021 US tour, and continued the association on the band's Boy Named If, and Other Favorites 2022 tour as well.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reed |first=Ryan|title=Elvis Costello and the Imposters Announce Summer 2022 Tour |url=https://ultimateclassicrock.com/elvis-costello-summer-2022-tour/ |access-date=2022-07-12 |website=Ultimate Classic Rock |date=February 15, 2022 |language=en}}</ref>


⚫
Sexton appeared on the 75th birthday celebration for David Bowie, produced by former Bowie keyboard player [[Mike Garson]], on January 8, 2022.{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}
Sexton appeared with [[Elvis Costello]] & the Imposters as part of their Hello Again 2021 US tour.


⚫
In January 2022, the Arc Angels reunited to play four shows in Texas, with Eric Holden replacing Tommy Shannon on bass.{{Citation needed|date=July 2022}}
⚫
Sexton appeared on the 75th Birthday Celebration for David Bowie, produced by former Bowie keyboard player [[Mike Garson]] on January 8, 2022.


In April 2023, Sexton played at Willie Nelson's 90th birthday celebration at the Hollywood Bowl, playing "Remember Me" with Edie Brickell.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lonsdale |first=John|title=Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Concert: Weed, Well Wishes and Tons of Songs |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/willie-nelson-90-birthday-concert-review-set-list-1234725569/ |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=Rolling Stone |date=April 30, 2023 |language=en}}</ref>
⚫
In January of 2022 The ArcAngels reformed to play four shows in Texas, with Eric Holden replacing Tommy Shannon on bass.


==Discography==
==Discography==
Line 87: Line 87:
*''[[Under the Wishing Tree]]'' (1995)
*''[[Under the Wishing Tree]]'' (1995)
*''[[Cruel and Gentle Things]]'' (2005)
*''[[Cruel and Gentle Things]]'' (2005)
*''The South Side Sessions'' (with [[Shannon McNally]]) (2006)


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
* [https://archive.org/details/CharlieSexton Charlie Sexton collection] at the [[Internet Archive]]'s live music archive
* [https://archive.org/details/CharlieSexton Charlie Sexton collection] at the [[Internet Archive]]'s live music archive
* [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0786631/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 Charlie Sexton profile] at [[Internet Movie Database]]


{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}
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[[Category:American rock songwriters]]
[[Category:American rock songwriters]]
[[Category:American rock singers]]
[[Category:American rock singers]]
[[Category:Blues rock musicians]]
[[Category:American blues rock musicians]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Writers from Austin, Texas]]
[[Category:Writers from Austin, Texas]]
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[[Category:20th-century American male musicians]]
[[Category:20th-century American male musicians]]
[[Category:American male singer-songwriters]]
[[Category:American male singer-songwriters]]
[[Category:Arc Angels members]]

Latest revision as of 16:39, 23 October 2024

Not to be confused with Charlie Saxton.

Charlie Sexton
Background information
Birth nameCharles Wayne Sexton
Born (1968-08-11) August 11, 1968 (age 56)
OriginAustin, Texas, U.S.
GenresBlues rock, rock, blues,
new wave (early work)
Occupation(s)Musician, producer
Instrument(s)Guitar, vocals
Years active1982–present
LabelsBack Porch Records, MCA Records

Charles Wayne Sexton (born August 11, 1968) is an American guitarist, singer and songwriter. Sexton is best known for his years as a guitarist in Bob Dylan's band, though also has become well known as a music producer. Sexton co-founded Arc Angels and created the Charlie Sexton Sextet. He was still a teenager when he gained fame for his 1985 hit, "Beat's So Lonely", from his debut album, Pictures for Pleasure.

Biography

[edit]

When he was four, Charlie and his mother relocated from San Antonio, Texas to Austin—where clubs such as the Armadillo World Headquarters, Soap Creek Saloon, the Split Rail and Antone's exposed him to popular music. He moved back to Austin at age 12 after a brief period living outside Austin with his mother. When Charlie and his brother, Will Sexton, were still young boys, they were taught how to play guitar by Austin legend W. C. Clark—known as the "Godfather of Austin Blues."[1]

Early successes

[edit]

Charlie's first band was the Groovemasters, fronted by Lubbock native R.C. Banks.[2] Under the moniker Little Charlie, he played about 16 dates with the Joe Ely Band in June 1982, after guitarist Jesse Taylor broke some bones in his hand. An observer at the time commented, "Several older guitar players are somewhat miffed but the chemistry is A+".[3]

Sexton performed under the name Guitar Charles Sexton on Juvenile Junk, a five-song EP by the group Maxwell (a.k.a. the Eager Beaver Boys) in 1983.[citation needed]

Sexton released his debut full-length album Pictures for Pleasure in 1985. Recorded in Los Angeles when he was 16, it yielded the Top-20 hit single "Beat's So Lonely".[4] Jon Pareles of the New York Times described him as "a teen idol singing David Bowie-style rock during the years he was promoted by MTV".[5] The album spent 34 weeks on Billboard magazine's Billboard 200 albums chart, reaching No. 15.[6] It also spawned three Australian Top-100 singles—with "Beat's So Lonely" peaking at No. 17.[7] The song was featured in the movie Some Kind of Wonderful, but was not included on the commercial soundtrack.

Sexton was an occasional opening act for David Bowie on his Glass Spider Tour in 1987, and appears on the Glass Spider video playing guitar on The Stooges' "I Wanna Be Your Dog" and the Velvet Underground's "White Light/White Heat".

While he was still in his late teens, Sexton became a popular session player—recording with artists such as Ronnie Wood, Keith Richards, Don Henley, Jimmy Barnes and Bob Dylan.

He also recorded My Time with the artist who gave him his start—R.C. Banks.[8]

Other projects

[edit]

Sexton worked for a time with his brother Will Sexton in 1988.[9] Will and the Kill released a 38-minute, self-titled album featuring both Sexton and Jimmie Vaughan. The album was recorded at Fire Station Studios[10] in San Marcos, Texas, with Joe Ely producing, and released via MCA Records.

Sexton (right) performing with Arc Angels in 2009

Sexton later contributed songs to various motion picture soundtracks, including True Romance and Air America—and made a cameo fronting a bar band in Thelma & Louise.[11]

In 1992, Sexton formed the Arc Angels with Doyle Bramhall II (son of Doyle Bramhall, one of Stevie Ray Vaughan's writing partners), and Vaughan's Double Trouble rhythm section, composed of bassist Tommy Shannon and drummer Chris "Whipper" Layton.[5] The name originally was spelled as ARC Angels, named for the Austin Rehearsal Complex, where they practiced.[12] The blues-rock band released a self-titled album on Geffen Records that same year.[13] The Steven Van Zandt-produced disc was well received by fans and critics, but the band broke up in less than three years.

Sexton formed the Charlie Sexton Sextet in 1995[5] and recorded Under The Wishing Tree, released on MCA Records.[14] Although sales were disappointing, it was met with critical acclaim.[citation needed] In the meantime, Sexton continued to perform with other artists—appearing on such notable albums as Lucinda Williams' Car Wheels on a Gravel Road and Shawn Colvin's Grammy-winning album A Few Small Repairs (uncredited).[citation needed]

Association with Bob Dylan

[edit]

Sexton was hired by Bob Dylan to replace Bucky Baxter in 1999.[citation needed] Sexton had previously played with Dylan during a pair of Austin, Texas, concerts in 1991 and 1996, and on some demos recorded in 1983. Sexton's residency with Dylan from 1999 to 2002 brought him great exposure—with many critics singling out his interplay with Larry Campbell.[citation needed] The group, hailed as one of Dylan's best, recorded "Things Have Changed" (from the 2000 film Wonder Boys) and 2001's critically acclaimed[citation needed] album Love and Theft.

Duke Robillard took over on lead guitar in Dylan's touring band In 2013 but was let go after just 27 shows. Sexton and Colin Linden subsequently shared lead guitar duties for the band from July and into early August. By the European leg of the 2013 Never Ending Tour, Sexton again became the sole lead guitar player and remained so through the end of the touring year.[15]

Other activity

[edit]

Sexton continued working with other artists; in 2001, he produced Double Trouble's Been a Long Time, and Jimmie Vaughan's album Do You Get the Blues? (2001).[16]

Sexton has produced numerous other works, including Edie Brickell's Volcano (2003), Jon Dee Graham's Great Battle (2004), Shannon McNally's Geronimo (2005), and Los Super Seven's Heard It on the X (2005).

He released his Cruel and Gentle Things album in late 2005.[17]

He has continued his producing albums for other artists—including Canadian singer-songwriter Peter Elkas' 2007 release, Wall of Fire.[18]

The Arc Angels began playing occasional reunion shows around Austin and Dallas in 2002. In 2009, the band announced it would tour with original members Layton and Bramhall, but not Shannon, who had health issues. The tour included England dates with Bramhall's sometime boss, Eric Clapton. The band also recorded the CD/DVD Living in a Dream, their second album in 17 years.[19]

Sexton performed the Leonard Cohen song "Hallelujah" with Justin Timberlake and Matt Morris at the Hope for Haiti Now benefit concert and telethon for earthquake relief In 2010.[20] Released as a single, the song marked Sexton's second appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it reached No. 13.[21]

Charlie and Will Sexton made a rare appearance as a duo opening for Roky Erickson and Okkervil River at Austin's Paramount Theatre on April 24, 2010. Sexton was also the guest performer for Conan O'Brien's Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour stop in Austin on May 14, 2010. Sexton appeared with the band Spoon during their performance on the television show Austin City Limits. The episode premiered on PBS on October 9, 2010. Sexton performed on the song, "Who Makes Your Money".[22]

Charlie and Will Sexton, Jakob Dylan, Brady Blade and Dave Matthews recorded an album at Blade's studio in Shreveport, Louisiana in early 2013. The group named themselves the Nauts.[23][24] The album has not yet been released.

Sexton had a bit part in the Richard Linklater film Boyhood, released in 2014 to near-universal acclaim. (The Guardian ranked it at No. 3 on its 2019 list of the top 100 films of the 21st century.)[25] In 2018, Sexton appeared in the documentary film Carmine Street Guitars and played Townes Van Zandt in the movie Blaze. Also in 2018 he produced the album Writing Wrongs for the Last Knife Fighter at Arlyn Studios in Austin, Texas.[citation needed] He has also played on guitar on the last two Jack Ingram records.[citation needed]

Sexton appeared with Chuck Prophet during the latter's 2019 European tour, covering selections from the Rolling Stones' Some Girls album.[citation needed]

Sexton joined Elvis Costello & the Imposters on their Hello Again 2021 US tour, and continued the association on the band's Boy Named If, and Other Favorites 2022 tour as well.[26]

Sexton appeared on the 75th birthday celebration for David Bowie, produced by former Bowie keyboard player Mike Garson, on January 8, 2022.[citation needed]

In January 2022, the Arc Angels reunited to play four shows in Texas, with Eric Holden replacing Tommy Shannon on bass.[citation needed]

In April 2023, Sexton played at Willie Nelson's 90th birthday celebration at the Hollywood Bowl, playing "Remember Me" with Edie Brickell.[27]

Discography

[edit]
Studio albums

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Stevie Ray Vaughan followed by W. C. Clark Blues Revue, PBS. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  2. ^ "Charlie Sexton Interview Part I: How To Session With Bob Dylan". Guitar International Magazine. Retrieved January 21, 2020.
  3. ^ Rob Mahoney (October 7, 1979). "Ponty Bone's Journal". Pontybone.com. Retrieved October 20, 2015.
  4. ^ Beats So Lonely Retrieved 19 November 2022
  5. ^ a b c Jon Pareles (April 27, 1995). "In Performance; pop music. In the Third Phase Of a 10-Year-Old Career Charlie Sexton Sextet Mercury Lounge". The New York Times. Retrieved April 28, 2012.
  6. ^ "Charlie Sexton". Billboard. Retrieved July 12, 2022.
  7. ^ Kent, David (1993). Australian Chart Book 1970–1992 (illustrated ed.). St Ives, N.S.W.: Australian Chart Book. p. 269. ISBN 0-646-11917-6.
  8. ^ "My Time - R.C. Banks | Credits". AllMusic. Retrieved January 21, 2020.
  9. ^ Margaret Moser (April 27, 1995). "Charlie and Will Sexton; Family Circle". The Austin Chronicle. Vol. 16, no. 16. Retrieved April 28, 2012.
  10. ^ Hendricks, Diana Finlay (March 1, 2013). Skanse, Richard (ed.). "Songs & Stories of San Marcos: Fire Station Studios". Lonestar Music Magazine. 6 (2).
  11. ^ Smyers, Darryl. "Charlie Sexton". Dallas Observer. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
  12. ^ Tyner, Lindsey (January 12, 2011). "Founder's Message". SIMS Foundation. Retrieved July 12, 2022.
  13. ^ The Arc Angels - Arc Angels Album Reviews, Songs & More | AllMusic, retrieved July 7, 2022
  14. ^ Charlie Sexton Sextet - Under the Wishing Tree Album Reviews, Songs & More | AllMusic, retrieved July 7, 2022
  15. ^ Rogovoy, Seth. Bob Dylan: Prophet, Mystic, Poet. Simon and Schuster (2009). ISBN 9781416559832 p. 277
  16. ^ "Do You Get the Blues? – Jimmie Vaughan – Credits – AllMusic". AllMusic. Retrieved September 2, 2018.
  17. ^ Charlie Sexton - Cruel and Gentle Things Album Reviews, Songs & More | AllMusic, retrieved July 12, 2022
  18. ^ Khanna, Vish. "Woods, Wires and Whiskey" Archived April 10, 2009, at the Wayback Machine, Exclaim.ca, March 2007.
  19. ^ Gary Graff (March 3, 2009). "Arc Angels Fly Again". Billboard.
  20. ^ Glenn Gamboa. "'Hope for Haiti Now' sets records." Newsday. 25 January 2010. Retrieved 1 March 2020.
  21. ^ "Charlie Sexton: Chart History." Billboard.com. Retrieved 1 March 2020.
  22. ^ "Spoon on Austin City Limits". Austin City Limits. September 15, 2014. Retrieved May 30, 2019.
  23. ^ "Dave Matthews forms new band The Nauts". Consequence. December 16, 2013. Retrieved July 7, 2022.
  24. ^ "Dave Matthews Heads New Supergroup with Jakob Dylan". Rolling Stone. December 16, 2013. Retrieved September 13, 2015.
  25. ^ "The 100 best films of the 21st century". the Guardian. September 13, 2019. Retrieved July 12, 2022.
  26. ^ Reed, Ryan (February 15, 2022). "Elvis Costello and the Imposters Announce Summer 2022 Tour". Ultimate Classic Rock. Retrieved July 12, 2022.
  27. ^ Lonsdale, John (April 30, 2023). "Willie Nelson's 90th Birthday Concert: Weed, Well Wishes and Tons of Songs". Rolling Stone. Retrieved August 18, 2024.
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