Gary P. Nunn

Gary P. Nunn, the writer of the song heard round the world, will visit Branson, Mo., this weekend for his first guest appearance on the "Gene Williams Country Television Show."

Nunn, who wrote the theme song for PBS’ "Austin City Limits" is on tour in northwest Arkansas following sold out concerts in Dallas. He will be at Ain’t Misbehavin’ Theatre on Sunday, Jan. 15, at the 2 p.m. tapings of the Lucas Oil sponsored "Gene Williams Show."
Nunn has been labeled by his fans as the true voice of Texas and former Texas Gov. Mark White designated him as the Official Texas Ambassador to the World."He tells the stories of Texas that make you proud to be a Texan or wish that you were one. Gary P. Nunn is truly the Texas Music Ambassador to the World. Gary wrote what is known as the armadillo song, ‘London Homesick Blues’ and that song has become the National Anthem of Texas Music. It is immediately recognized as the song of the internationally viewed PBS show ‘Austin City Limits.’ It has been used as the show’s theme song since its second year on PBS," Glen Williams said.

Nunn said he wrote the song as a parody of a country song and "I had no idea it would be recorded, much less become a standard. It’s listed in the ‘Texas Book of Lists’ as one of the most popular songs, even Big Bird did it."

"Austin City Limits" producer Terry Likona said that "London Homesick Blues" has a certain nostalgia built into it summing up that "whole Texas feeling." It’s longevity as the theme song is because of its sentimental value and "it helps us remain faithful to our roots. There are many loyal fans who know what it is all about and new people that don’t, but they like it. It strikes a chord with people. And it tells a story. It’s a classic Texas song."

Nunn wasn’t always about Texas Progressive Country Music. He got his start with a garage band in Brownsville, Texas, playing rock and roll. Transferring to Austin’s University of Texas changed that. Throughout the ‘70s he played with the Outlaws, Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael Martin Murphey, Willie Nelson and the Lost Gonzo Band. Nelson, Walker, Murphy, Roseanne Cash, Tracy Nelson and David Alan Coe have recorded his songs.

Nunn also records songs of many other Texas songwriters, some of which are on his newest release, "It’s a Texas Thing." Nunn will be performing two songs from that CD for the "Gene William Country Television Show" on Sunday.

"Just like his live performances that draw a crowd, the CD starts you dancing. It is electric and contagious and appeals to all ages," Glen Williams said. "We are delighted Gary has included the ‘Gene Williams Show’ in his schedule while in the Branson area."