Page 102 - ION Indie Magazine SeptOct 2019 Issue

For those that remember the

critically acclaimed movie “Crazy
Heart” with Jeff Bridges, Brad

presents the featured song from the
film called “The Weary Kind” on this
project. When I listen to Brad’s cut,

I firmly believe he is channeling Kris
Kristofferson’s soulfulness in the
way he delivers the lyrics. It is truly

sophisticated within its simplicity.

David Frizzell pictured with Brad Petersen’s
CD “Second Chances”

Brad’s skills as a fine songwriter are also
showcased on the album. He wrote “Better
Hands” and “Second Chances,” which also
became the title. Like all of us, Brad has faced
some serious challenges in his life. When you
listen to these two songs, not only will you
learn more about the life of Brad Petersen, I
am sure you relate to the stories as they
pertain to your own life.

Even though this is the final cut on the album,
to me, “If I Could Only Fly” is the centerpiece.
I had first heard the song back in the 80s when
Merle Haggard performed it at one of his
shows that I attended. I was absolutely taken
with how beautiful the song was and how the
lyrics sounded so much like a Hag
composition.

I was surprised to learn that he had not written
it, and in fact, the composer was Blaze Foley.
Merle would later record the song (twice), and
it became a favorite among his most loyal fans,
including Brad and me.