The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an informal metric for the severity of a disaster, The Waffle House Index. There’s three levels: Green for no power loss, little damage and a full menu, Yellow for limited to no power, low supplies and a limited menu and, finally, Red for severe damage and the restaurant is closed. It’s a quick rule of thumb to understand how severe things are. Today, Waffle House announced 418 Stores are Code Red, signaling full closure. While we’re absolutely positive these stores will re-open, now is as good a time as any to reflect on all the good times you’ve had at the best diner around (sorry IHOP).
In a stroke of mind-boggling prophecy, artist Zephaniah Bostow recently released a video for his brand new track “Fortune Teller” depicting a nice meal inside of a Waffle House. The song is even called Fortune Teller! What does Bostow know that we don’t?!
Obviously, that’s all meant in jest and this is just a matter of cosmic coincidence but it is a fortunately timed overlap with current events. The track was recorded with Joe Pisapia and features a delightfully gentle vibe filled with layered vocals and rolling piano. It’s actually delightful, which is a fitting vibe for reminiscing on Waffle House.
Bostow has a full EP entitled Signs and Wonders that will contain this track but the release date is in flux. We’ll let you know when we know.