What makes Street Language by Rodney Crowell notable?

'Street Language' received positive reviews for its lyrical depth and musicality, helping solidify Crowell's reputation as a leading figure in country music. The album features songs that would resonate through the Americana movement, influencing future artists like Keith Urban and Sturgill Simpson. By the time of 'Street Language's release in 1986, Rodney Crowell was transitioning from a songwriter to a recording artist, following his successful collaborations with Emmylou Harris. This album marked his third studio effort and showcased his burgeoning solo career after the critical acclaim of 'Diamonds & Dirt' would follow in later years.

Who is Street Language for?

Street Language works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective flow, introspective storytelling with polish and for contemplative afternoons.

How many songs are on Street Language?

Street Language has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Street Language

Rodney Crowell · 1986

40 min · 10 tracks · country music

A blend of reflective storytelling and melodic country rhythms that capture the complexities of love and freedom.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Let Freedom Ring — This opening track sets the tone with its anthemic call for liberation, blending poignant lyrics with a catchy melody that encapsulates the spirit of the album.
→
When I'm Free Again — This song combines emotive storytelling with a rich arrangement, showcasing Crowell's ability to meld personal narrative with broader themes of redemption and hope.
→
She Loves the Jerk — With its witty lyrics and playful melody, this track captures Crowell's knack for storytelling, providing a humorous yet insightful look at complicated relationships.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and varied tempos, contributing to its appeal within the country genre.

What we noticed

The sequencing includes a notable shift in mood around the fifth track, where the tempo slows significantly, creating a contemplative atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective flow
introspective storytelling with polish
for contemplative afternoons
engaging narratives that unfold gradually

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, upbeat tracks
seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time of 'Street Language's release in 1986, Rodney Crowell was transitioning from a songwriter to a recording artist, following his successful collaborations with Emmylou Harris. This album marked his third studio effort and showcased his burgeoning solo career after the critical acclaim of 'Diamonds & Dirt' would follow in later years.
Stylistic neighbors: Guy Clark· Steve Earle· John Prine

New to Rodney Crowell? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Let Freedom Ring 4:33
2 Ballad of Fast Eddie 3:51
3 When I'm Free Again 3:53
4 She Loves the Jerk 3:43
5 When the Blue Hour Comes 4:18
6 Oh King Richard 4:18
7 Looking for You 4:36
8 Stay (Don't Be Cruel) 3:50
9 The Best I Can 2:46
10 Last Like a Mask 4:13

What to play next

Listen next

Diamonds & Dirt

1988

Go back to

I Don't Have to Crawl

1985

Full Rodney Crowell discography Where to start with Rodney Crowell Artists like Rodney Crowell

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata