After finally seeing video & film clips I can honestly say,as much as I dig the 70s and all,his words somehow come across better to me without all that facial hair. Circa,1970-1972. I think since he sings a more honest form of music and words,having a straight forward look makes me take it more seriously.
Besides,in the 1976 SNL clip,he looks a little like Will Farrell with the beard he wore in some sketches. No offense.
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"A knight of the road,going back to a place where he might get warm."
- Borderstone