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THE COUNTRIFIED ROCK 'N' ROLL subgenre known as Americana — drawing from elements of bluegrass, folk, R&B and soul — tells stories of harrowing heartaches and working-class woes. Perhaps that's why many Americana artists eventually branch out to tell other tales through books, film and other avenues. The Songwriters Tour brings four of the most well-known storytelling souls to Atlanta this weekend.

Vector Management (ENLARGE)
The Songwriters Tour brings Lyle Lovett (from left), John Hiatt, Joe Ely and Guy Clark to the Tabernacle this weekend to showcase their distinct styles of Americana.
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LYLE LOVETT

Best known for: Releasing 12 albums (winning four Grammys); appearing in numerous films and TV shows; a two-year marriage to Julia Roberts.

Been covered by: Nanci Griffith, Willie Nelson, Francine Reed

Latest release: "My Baby Don't Tolerate" (2003)

JOE ELY

Best known for: Co-founding progressive country band the Flatlanders in 1972; touring with acts including the Rolling Stones, the Clash, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen.

Been covered by: Nanci Griffith, Bob Dylan, the Everly Brothers

Latest release: "Happy Songs From Rattlesnake Gulch" album and "Bonfire of Roadmaps" book (both due in February)

JOHN HIATT

Best known for: More than 18 albums; edgy anti-authoritarian lyrics.

Been covered by: Three Dog Night, Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Willie Nelson, Joan Baez, Paula Abdul, Jimmy Buffett, Jewel, Mandy Moore, Linda Ronstadt

Latest release: "Master of Disaster" (2005)

GUY CLARK

Best known for: Pioneering the alternative country scene over the course of 15 albums and 35 years; discovering Lyle Lovett.

Been covered by: Johnny Cash, Bobby Bare, Vince Gill, John Denver, Nanci Griffith, Ricky Skaggs, Asleep at the Wheel, Jimmy Buffett

Latest release: "Workbench Songs" (2006; nominated for a 2007 Grammy)

• THE 411: Songwriters Tour 2007 with Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Joe Ely and Guy Clark. $55. 8 p.m. Jan. 27. Tabernacle, 152 Luckie St., downtown Atlanta. 404-659-9022, www.livenation.com, www.lylelovett.net, www.johnhiatt.com, www.ely.com, www.guyclark.com.