Lucinda Williams talks about writing and performing rock ‘n’ roll after her stroke

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Lucinda Williams discusses her journey of writing and performing rock ‘n’ roll following her stroke in November 2020. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has always been known for playing by her own rules, straddling the line between country and rock ‘n’ roll. Despite her health setback, Williams underwent a demanding rehabilitation process, resulting in both a memoir, titled “Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You,” and her latest album, “Stories from a Rock N Roll Heart,” released earlier this summer. This album boasts collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Patti Scialfa, Jesse Malin, Angel Olsen, Margo Price, Jeremy Ivey, Buddy Miller, and more.

In an interview, Lucinda Williams shared her thoughts on her recovery, her unique collaborative process for this album, and her future plans.

AP: Your upcoming tour for “Stories from a Rock N Roll Heart” marks your return to the stage following your stroke. Did this experience change your approach to writing and recording music?

WILLIAMS: I wasn’t able to write as I usually do, with my guitar, due to my physical limitations. However, I could manage to make a chord or note, and I’d create melodies in my mind. My friends stepped in to help by playing the chords, and it became a collaborative effort. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, leading to songs we might not have otherwise written. Working with others in this way was somewhat liberating because I hadn’t done it to this extent before.

AP: It must have been essential to have the right chemistry, especially with impressive collaborators like Angel Olsen and Margo Price.

WILLIAMS: Margo and I have become good friends, and she lives nearby in Nashville. When we were in the studio, my husband, Tom Overby, suggested inviting her to sing some background vocals, and she was thrilled about it. She’s fun to work with, enthusiastic, and a joy to be around. Angel Olsen happened to be in Nashville during our recording sessions, and she added a beautiful and crucial vocal part to “Jukebox,” which truly elevates the song.

AP: Your determination to continue writing and performing is admirable.

WILLIAMS: People are indeed amazed, but I’m grateful to have great support. I have an excellent band and two fantastic guitar players who handle the instrument while I focus on singing.

AP: Do you have hopes of playing the guitar again someday?

WILLIAMS: Yes, I’m working with a physical therapist who has me doing hand exercises, mainly with my left hand, as that side of my body was most affected. I try to stay positive. I recall a time when I couldn’t walk across the room without falling, but I overcame that challenge.

AP: As an artist who has straddled the line between country and rock ‘n’ roll, do you still feel caught between these genres?

WILLIAMS: I believe the world has caught up with Americana, which is precisely what I represent. Personally, I’d love to see a resurgence of “folk rock.”

AP: What’s on the horizon for you?

WILLIAMS: Another album is already in the discussion phase.