Contribution to the Liner Notes for the 2006 reissue of Garland Jeffreys, self-titled solo debut album

Garland Jeffreys, my very first solo recording, marked a new stage in my early music career. I’d prepared for this album by performing in the many small clubs, church basements, synagogues, homeless shelters, sleeper’s conventions, hootenannies, village scenes, as well as the various apartments I lived or often crashed in during those early days.

Signed to Atlantic Records, I had the great opportunity to meet and play with some very special musicians. That I was somewhat nervous in starting the sessions was an understatement. Meeting the great keyboardist and arranger” Paul Griffin, at that time was a godsend. Paul, as he did with so many musicians back then, befriended me and held my hand through the process. I will never forget my friend, and to him and Winston Grennan, I dedicate this album.

—Garland Jeffreys