Fort Monroe native Steve Earle is legit. From his teen days following role model and mentor Townes Van Zandt, Earle has released 20 beloved albums, won Grammies, been married seven times, been jailed a year for cocaine and weapons possession, acted on television in “The Wire” and “Treme,” and had his songs recorded by legends including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings and Emmylou Harris. His latest country-rock album, “So You Want to Be an Outlaw,” is viewed by the singer and guitarist as a spiritual follow-up to his acclaimed “Guitar Town” record, harkening to an older sound. Sounding gritty and re-energized post-divorce with singer Allison Moorer, Earle showcases his honed ability as a lyricist to cut to the heart of subjects most of us share in common; there’s even a duet with Mr. Willie Nelson on the cautionary title track. Always an ass-kicking live show, Steve Earle and the Dukes perform with the Mastersons opening at the National on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 8 p.m. $20.50 to $25.50. thenationalva.com.