Ideal Setlist: David Ramirez  

On 9/13/22, I saw David Ramirez play the Tractor Tavern in Seattle, Washington.  

I cannot think of another artist who does a better job of conveying the challenge of dedicating your life to an art form than David Ramirez. From songs about the moments you miss, fundamental questions about purpose, to wondering if one should continue, Mr. Ramirez asks you to walk a mile in his shoes for a while. In those moments, we develop a little empathy for all those road warriors burning up the interstate in pursuit of a dream.

I was first introduced to David Ramirez by a friend of mine from Oklahoma. She sent me the song, Stick Around, and said, “this song is about you.” After listening to it for the first time, it disappointed me. It shocked me she saw me this way. Then, I spent more time with the lyrics. I looked deeply at my own life. Sticking around was not my story. I had moved across the country to pursue something drastically different. Needing a fresh start, the expected routine of life was something I had to destroy.

I have moved from Seattle to Los Angeles and Los Angeles back to Seattle since I first heard that song. No longer do I find myself offended. Now, it feels like a badge of honor. I am a man living a life that is actively working to reject the tyranny of the expected. I have been lucky enough to see David Ramirez in concert five times now. His entire catalog means so much to me. It feels anthemic and makes me realize I am not alone. Seeing him live was and continues to be the manifestation of those feelings born into existence around a shared experience with total strangers. This is the power of good art.  

As far as my ideal setlist is concerned, the songs below are a collection of David Ramirez songs I have returned to most often. You will not find a song from every album, nor are all my favorite songs listed. Instead, these are 15 songs that keep me coming back for more. As always, I would love to hear from you. What is your ideal setlist?  

To listen to that playlist, click HERE.  

Communion

Ball and Chain

Hold On

Chapter II

New Way of Living

To listen to the entire playlist, click HERE.  

Be good to each other,

Nathan