He’s everywhere at once. I could swear that on more than one occasion I’ve seen him simultaneously at The Broken Spoke, Artz Ribhouse and Donn’s Depot. On any given Monday at Donn’s, Chris Gage and everyone in the bar will hail him upon his entry with a rousing “Hello Winker!” To which he”ll respond, “Hello Everybody”. I’ve been running into Winker for years and over those years I’m proud to have become his friend. I’m even prouder that he likes the Mystiqueros enough to come see us just about every Wednesday at the Saxon Pub. That’s a rousing endorsement from a true music fan. I don’t know anyone who sees more live music than Winker or is able to capture images of us musician types any better. Over the years it seems like his photography has gone from hobby to true calling. Right now, the majority of live shots you see of us are from Winker. His ability to take beautiful pitures in the darkness of The Saxon is amazing to me.
Not long ago we were asked to play for the grand re-opening of The Backyard here in Austin. The line up that day was a whose who of Austin talent and I got to see a lot of old friends. I knew it would be a good day when I saw Winker strolling to the stage, camera in hand. Below are some of the shots he took of us that day.
So here’s to an Austin original, even though he was born in Boston. When you see him at your favorite club supporting your favorite band, buy him a beer. Winker is one of the people that make live music in Austin like no other place in the world.
I’m honored!!! Thanks so much for posting this!!! Glad you liked the pictures from the backyard. That was a really special show!!! Then again, every show I’ve ever seen with you guys is really special!!!
You just captured the essence of our friend Winker. But I’ll add a few that come to mind…his famous mantra…it ain’t easy bein’ me! Which is his standard retort when people are amazed at how many places/bars he has yet to go that night. And every year he goes to New York for several months to spend quality time with his parents in New York, which at that time I lose all track of who, when or where anyone is playing because he’s who I call to find out where I want to go for entertainment on any given day. And oh my how the bar staff suffers while he’s gone, as well as the Bud Light distributor. He loves his bartenders and wait staff at each place and they love him. Some people might not know that he goes to the Broken Spoke every night, no matter what, unless he’s out of town or really sick. Anyway, he is a friend to all and a true Austin treasure that I personally couldnt’ live without.
Agreed!