Mason Ruffner had everything it takes to build a mainstream blues-rock career—everything but the desire to do so. Back in 1989, Ruffner had the elements in place: He had a song on the radio, an album on the charts, and high-profile sessions under his belt. He was being endorsed by the best around—opening shows for Jimmy Page, and having his songwriting praised by Bob Dylan. And then, he quietly left New Orleans and disappeared.

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