Paul Thorn: from boxer to rocker

(Published by Planet JH Weekly)Former boxer and thoroughly Southern, Mississippi’s Americana roots-rocker Paul Thorn has a way with words both in and out of song. He’s a witty guy, and his 2011 album Pimps and Preachers topped the Americana chart for three weeks with plenty of “truth is stranger than fiction” escapades. Thorn’s most recent release, What the Hell is Goin’ On, is a concept album of cover songs from familiar to obscure, including artists Buddy Miller, Wild Bill Emerson, and Stevie Nicks. Center for the Arts presents Paul Thorn, 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Center Theater. $25. JHCenterForTheArts.org.