Country Lips are Seattle’s own purveyors of classic country, honky tonk, and rocking Americana. People love ‘em here. Love ‘em so much, they’ve gotten tattoos of the band's logo—a drunk horse, stoned cow, and suckling chicken as drawn by one-time band-house roommate (and fleeting Lips member), Clay Giffin. Six months ago, area photographer Coco Foto was approached by the band and asked if she'd take portraits of those individuals who've tattooed the Country Lips logo on their thigh. "Some of them are Country Lips band members but some are friends, family, and fans. Nevertheless, the list of names that I was given led me down a road that has left me speechless," she wrote in a recent email correspondence.
For the band’s 10-Year Anniversary Show at Tractor Tavern next Saturday (February 16), a gallery featuring large prints of Coco's photos will be on display during the show, which will include sit-ins by past band members and "very special" musical guests.
Coco Foto has offered The Stranger an exclusive preview of her shots, with names and quotes from each about why they got the tat. As you can tell from the first shot above, they are classically awesome. Check out the rest below.