Update: Patterson Hood & the Downtown 13, "After It's Gone"

Athens, Ga is an idyllic Southern college town, with a cool vibe, successful locally owned shops, a few good restaurants, the venerable 40 Watt Club and a great tradition. And more than a little good local music.

Some of Athens' finest musicians, led by longtime WYMA favorite Patterson Hood (Drive-By Truckers), with help from Mike Mills (R.E.M.) and many others (members of Widespread Panic, Futurebird, Hope For a Goldensummer, and more), put out a new song, "After It's Gone", to raise attention to the grassroots movement to protect downtown Athens' character and economic vitality.

It's a pretty song, with Hood's characteristically honest and heartfelt lyrics. The issues raised in it are hardly unique to Athens.

The Athens music community has long played an active and effective role in local politics. There is a lot of pride the musicians take in their town. Musicians at the level of Patterson Hood and Mike Mills rarely stay residents of small towns like Athens. So I applaud their commitment and deep civic engagement.

You can read more about the issue and download the song for free here: http://protectdowntownathens.com/