Several new/reasonably new songs are doing more than name-dropping Bakersfield -- they're centered around the city, its roots and reputation, and its changing face.

First off, Social Distortion has been performing its song “Bakersfield” in concert for a number of years, but now come reports that the band has polished the song to the point they’re ready to record a version in the studio for release in 2010.

Social D and leader Mike Ness are regulars in Bakersfield, and although Social D is known as one of the best punk bands ever, the Bakersfield Sound and other country influences are everpresent in many of Ness’ songs. Ness was visibly touched when he first performed in Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace a while back, feeling humbled to be on stages in Buck’s house. 

A different take on “Bakersfield” comes from Jeff Williams, who chronicles the dust and changes in the city’s look, among other things in a Sept. 30 performance at the Kern County Fair.

Finally, you can expect frequent Bakersfield references in the “Bakersfield and Beyond” radio show. The latest show featured “Bakersfield Music” by Tim Has (from the album “Bushpilot Buckaroo”).