Donn Aaron Mixon has released the music video for his new single “Coal Miner & Little Boy Blue”. The song is a nostalgic look back at Mixon’s childhood and the experiences that have shaped him as a musician and songwriter. The video, which premiered today, takes a unique approach to the traditional performance video. It’s from Mixon’s new double album, The Welcome Mat, which will arrive on October 25th.
A Nostalgic Look Back
“Coal Miner & Little Boy Blue” is a poignant track that serves as an excellent introduction to the album’s overarching themes. The song delves into Mixon’s early years and the experiences that have stayed with him, shaping his identity as a musician and songwriter. The title itself carries a lot of weight, reflecting Mixon’s personal connection to his past.
The Inspiration Behind the Song
Mixon elaborates on the inspirations behind “Coal Miner & Little Boy Blue” in an interview, saying, “It’s an autobiographical song about talking to my damn dad on the CB radio every night when he was driving home from working at the Monsanto plant in his Plymouth Fury III. The song deals with the wonder and excitement of our early years together and the regret of lost time between a stubborn father and son. The Coal Miner was his CB handle and Little Boy Blue was mine.”
The song, with its heartfelt lyrics and reflective tone, encapsulates the complexities of a father-son relationship. It’s a story of both shared memories and the inevitable distance that can grow between family members.
The Welcome Mat: A Place of Memories
The album’s title, “The Welcome Mat”, is a tribute to the place where Mixon spent his childhood. He was raised in a trailer court in Pensacola, Florida, called ‘The Welcome Mat.’ This place holds a special significance for Mixon, filled with memories and emotions that he wanted to honor with the album’s title. The Welcome Mat is a collection of personal, autobiographical tales from Mixon’s youth, offering a glimpse into the diverse range of experiences that shaped his life.
A Musical Memoir
Mixon, like many musicians from the South, has spent a significant part of his life on the road. After leaving ‘The Welcome Mat,’ he spent three years touring with a Southern rock band and has released six albums with various bands as the primary songwriter. However, “The Welcome Mat” is different. It’s entirely his vision, his life story told without any outside input. It’s a deeply personal project, offering a unique perspective on his experiences.
Although Mixon received recording assistance from Skid Row drummer Ron Hammersmith and Russian violinist Maria G., “The Welcome Mat” is essentially his own creation. The album is a blend of traditional Americana and Southern gothic blues rock, resulting in a musical memoir unlike any other. Mixon hopes that his story will inspire listeners to reflect on their own childhood memories and find solace in the shared human experience.
A Touch of Southern Charm
The music video for “Coal Miner & Little Boy Blue” is a visual extension of the song’s nostalgic and reflective tone. It is a departure from typical performance videos, offering a more intimate and thought-provoking experience. The video captures the essence of the song, evoking a sense of yearning and reflection, highlighting Mixon’s unique musical style that blends traditional Southern influences with contemporary rock elements.
A Lasting Impact
“Coal Miner & Little Boy Blue” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the power of music to capture the essence of life experiences. Mixon’s heartfelt lyrics and emotionally charged performance create a connection with listeners, reminding them of the importance of family, memory, and the journey of self-discovery. The video, with its innovative approach and captivating visuals, enhances the song’s impact, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Mixon’s ability to share such personal experiences through his music is a testament to the power of music as a universal language, capable of connecting people on a deeply emotional level.
