The “Lost” Buck Owens Recording: A Journey Back in Time
When people think of Buck Owens, they immediately recall the raw and vibrant “Bakersfield Sound,” a style that stood in sharp contrast to polished Nashville country. Yet few knew that one of his key career moments – a live performance in Richmond, Virginia, in 1964 – had been sitting unheard for decades. Only in 2025, thanks to Omnivore Recordings, did fans finally get the chance to hear it in full.
An accidental but priceless discovery
Archivists revealed that the tapes had long been overlooked in storage. It wasn’t until Omnivore began its deep project on Owens’ legacy that the reels were carefully cleaned, restored, and digitized. The result was the album My Heart Skips a Beat: Live in Richmond, Virginia 1964, giving today’s listeners the uncanny feeling of being inside the hall that night—hearing not just the music but the laughter, applause, and Owens’ playful banter with The Buckaroos.
Owens and The Buckaroos at their peak
1964 was a golden year for Owens, who was climbing the Billboard charts with hits like “Act Naturally” and “Love’s Gonna Live Here.” The Richmond concert showcases his confidence and firepower alongside his loyal band, The Buckaroos—especially Don Rich, his guitarist and closest collaborator. Fans can clearly hear their seamless chemistry, often described as the “twin soul” of the Bakersfield Sound.
Not just music, but living history
What makes this recording special is not only the songs but the era it represents. The 1960s were a turbulent time for country music, competing against the dominance of rock and roll. Owens’ sound stood out for its authenticity, defining Bakersfield as a cultural fortress. This Richmond show is a snapshot of that determination and pride.
The bigger picture: a decade on stage
Alongside this release, Omnivore also issued a 3-CD box set, Adios, Farewell, Goodbye, Good Luck, So Long: On Stage 1964–1974. This collection spans ten years of Owens’ live performances, from intimate U.S. venues to international tours. For fans and scholars alike, it’s both a treasure chest and a historical document.
Why it matters today
In today’s digital-heavy world, where much music is layered with production, hearing a raw, fiery 1964 performance feels refreshing and grounding. It reminds us that true music doesn’t require embellishment—just a powerful voice, a tight band, and an eager audience.
The rediscovered Buck Owens concert is more than a late release—it’s a time capsule, a reminder of why Bakersfield Sound still matters, and proof that authentic artistry endures across generations.