Austin City Limits Season 46 Episode 3 Stevie Ray Vaughan: A Retrospective

In this special episode of Austin City Limits, the legendary late guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan is celebrated with a retrospective of his work. The hour-long program features never-before-seen footage of Vaughan's performances on ACL, as well as interviews with family members, bandmates, and fellow musicians.

The episode begins with a rousing performance of "Pride and Joy" from Vaughan's 1983 appearance on ACL, which serves as a reminder of his incredible talent on the guitar. Through interviews with his brother Jimmie Vaughan, bassist Tommy Shannon, and drummer Chris Layton, we learn about the early days of Vaughan's career, including his start in the music scene in Austin, Texas, and the formation of his band Double Trouble.

As the episode progresses, we see footage of Vaughan playing some of his most beloved songs, including "Cold Shot," "Texas Flood," and "Crossfire." The performances are raw and powerful, demonstrating why Vaughan was such an influential figure in the blues and rock music worlds.

Interspersed with the music are interviews with other musicians who were inspired by Vaughan's music. Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, and B.B. King all reflect on Vaughan's impact on their own work and the wider music community. King talks about the first time he saw Vaughan play, saying, "When he played that guitar, it was like electricity shooting from his fingers."

Throughout the episode, we learn about the ups and downs of Vaughan's life and career. His struggles with drug addiction and his eventual sobriety are discussed, as well as his impact on the music industry at large. We see footage of Vaughan's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015, where he was honored by his peers for his contributions to music.

The episode concludes with a powerful rendition of "Riviera Paradise" from Vaughan's 1989 appearance on ACL. The song is a showcase of his virtuosic guitar playing and serves as a fitting tribute to his legacy.

Overall, this episode provides an in-depth look at the life and career of one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Through interviews and performances, we gain a deeper understanding of Vaughan's music and his impact on the wider music community. It's a must-watch for any blues or rock music fan and a fitting tribute to a true guitar legend.