WORDS / CHRISTOPHER BEAUMONT

One of the last legendary folk music founders, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, returns to The White Water Tavern in Little Rock for a two-night stand at 8 p.m. Dec. 14 (Bonnie Montgomery opens) and 15 (Graham Wilkinson opens). “His shows here last December were unforgettable,” says owner Matt White. Limited tickets for this seated show are available for $30 via The White Water Tavern website.

With over 40 albums, Ramblin’ Jack’s influence on music and musicians is fabled as the man himself. Johnny Cash, Tom Waits, Beck, Bonnie Raitt, Ry Cooder, Bruce Springsteen, The Grateful Dead, and The Rolling Stones are simply a sample of those affected by Ramblin’ Jack. In Guy Clark’s song, “Ramblin’ Jack and Mahan,” he quotes Ramblin’ Jack Elliott: 

“I got these lines in my face

Tryin’ to straighten out the wrinkles in my life

When I think of all the fools I’ve been

It’s a wonder that I’ve sailed this many miles

I recall a time

I set my soul on fire just for show

All it ever taught me was

The more I learn the less I seem to know”

The White Water Tavern is located at 2500 W 7th St, Little Rock, AR 72205. 501-375-8400. whitewaterbooking@gmail.com. Keep up with them on their website, Facebook, and Instagram @whitewatertavern