This album is an album of mighty fine covers of some classic songs turned Bluegrass. Now if you are a true music fan like me you’ll appreciate their take on some of these timeless works of art like the opening song called “Everybody’s Talkin”. This song was originally cut in 1966 by Mr. Fred Neil, who was the composer as well. However this song was recorded by over 150 other artists, most recently it was included in Mr. Glen Campbell’s final 2017 album called Adios.

This band has been around since I have been alive in 1971, and of course they have had their lineup changes, and deaths. But this current lineup of Guitar / Mr. Dudley Connell, Mandolin, Guitar / Mr. Lou Reid, Banjo, Fiddle / Mr. Ron Stewart, Dobro / Mr. Fred Travers, Bass / Mr. Ronnie Simpkins. They take turns on vocals and trading off solos during every song, in true traditional Bluegrass form.

“Steel Rail Blues” is a classic 1966 staple of the show from Mr. Gordon Lightfoot, but the apogee of this album was their cover of the song “Darcy Farrow” that I loved when Mr. John Denver sang it. The fiddle work on this song from Mr. Lou Reid is absolutely flawless and nothing short of putting goosebumps on my arms. It was written by Mr. Steve Gillette and Mr. Tom Campbell and it was recorded by many many artists like mr. Jimmy Dale Gilmore. Rocky Mountain High was the sixth studio album from Mr. John Denver in 1972, and one of my favorites.

“Seven Bridges Road” was a song originally recorded in 1969 by Mr. Steve Young, who wrote it. It was released on his “Rock Salt And Nails” album also made popular by Mr. Tyler Childers, originally wrote by Mr. Utah Phillips. Commercially it reached it’s apogee by the Eagles in 1980. There was some amazing guitar work on the 1969 song “Bob Dylan’s Dream” from the “Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” album. The Townes Van Zandt song from 1968 “I’ll Be here In the Morning” boasted one of the album’s smooth closing songs as it closes it’s final feelings upon the listener with the almighty Mr. James Taylor’s song “Sweet Baby James”.

The name “Changes” is an appropriate name for this album as it is the first new album from the band in 5 years, on a new label and a new member as they still mourn the passing of Mr. Ben Eldridge.

Many of you know how much I dearly admire this festival and it’s family that that organizes the event yearly. This event played a huge role in the evolution of one Mr. Tyler Childers, and the phenomenon that he and his band are. I do this for over 200 yearly festivals, as a labor of love. But a few of them go beyond just business, and this is one of them.

I cannot say at this juncture whether I’ll be there covering the event or not in person, but I will have some interviews and side articles coming for them regardless. This article should pretty much supply you with all of the information you need to enjoy this event, directions, Spotify playlist, rules and videos.

I can tell you from last year that camping was VERY FUN, and the high trees on the sides made the sun set earlier than usual. YOU WILL NOT HAVE CELL PHONE SERVICE. There were no water filling stations, so bring plenty of water. LAST YEAR WAS HOT HOT HOT. There is GOOD FOOD available to purchase, and you can have grills.

This is a one stage event that is VERY easy to catch all of the action as it transpires all day, and it is very family orientated and laid back. There is no trouble, however there is still a very nice security company that is there to tend to any emergencies. All of the staff is on donations of services, parking lot attendants and gate staff are all SO NICE.

Mr. Joshua and I firmly believe what sets us apart from  many other websites is that we completely cover the event, not only for the music but we delve into the vendors and food.

***FESTIVAL INFORMATION & DO’S AND DON’TS***

*Kickin’ It On the Creek is SOLD OUT!!
*If you do not have a ticket, you are not permitted on festival
grounds.
*You must have your wristband on at ALL times, if you lose
your wristband, you may not re-enter the festival!
*Must be 21+, We will be checking IDs.
*Gates open on Wednesday, September 12th at noon.
*NO PETS!
*This is a dry county so BYOB!
*Do to limited space, we do encourage carpooling. Please
pass this on with your friends.
*We are sold out of RV passes. If you have a RV pass, we do
not allow RV’s over 16 feet.
*Ice and water will be available on site!
*We have 8 amazing food vendors on site.
*There will be pay showers.
*With no ATMs or internet service to swipe your card, you
must bring CASH for food trucks, craft vendors, band merch
etc.
*We are 30 min from stores, hotels, etc. Please pack
accordingly for your stay!
* Primitive camping is free, we encourage everyone to stay.
*Please keep your camp site as minimal as possible due to
limited amount of space. Save room for your neighbor!
*Small campfires are permitted, we just ask for you to clean it
up before you leave!
*No ATVs are permitted on festival grounds! If that is your
mode of transportation, you must park it at the entrance.
*WE WILL NOT TOLERATE ANY DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
OR DISREPECT TO ANYONE ON OUR PROPERTY.
*We will not hold tickets for anyone at the gate!
*If you plan on camping with your friends, you must arrive
together. We will not hold any spots.
*This is a rural national forest location. GPS will not likely
direct you to the proper location. Route to festival will be well
marked with green dots, black arrows and signs from
Irvine. Directions can be found at
www.kickinitonthecreek.com.
*The amazing Hargett Fire Department will be doing our
parking again this year. These heroes save lives for free,
please tip them generously to park your car!
*We will provide shuttles if needed.
*If you are caught sneaking in Kickin’ It On the Creek, It will be
considered trespassing and you will be barred for life from
our festival.
*We strive hard to provide you with a safe, friendly, loving
environment to watch 56 of the most amazing acts on the
planet!
All we ask is that you love your neighbors, treat everyone
with respect, take out what you bring in, and to treat our farm
as if it were your own.
*Please arrive with a smile, make yourself at home, and
tighten up your dancin; shoes cause it’s gonna be a good
one!
*Ticket purchase and attendance is personal acceptance for
liability for all actions while on site!

Tyler Childers

town Mountain

The Wooks

Arlo McKineley And The Lonesome Sound

Buffalo Wabs And The Price Hill Hustle

Joseph Huber

John R. Miller And The Engine Lights

Laid Back Country Picker

Wayne Graham

William Matheny

Magnolia Boulevard

ONA

Senora May

Luna And The Mountain Jets

Joe’s Truck Stop

Geno Seale And The Porch Front Gospel

Vintage Pistol

The Hi-Jivers

Morgan Wade And The Stepbrothers

Giant Rooster Sideshow

Miles Miller

Jericho Woods

Grownover

Chloe Edmonstone

Bedford

Donnie Issacs

Tom Cool

Troy Estess

Alex Wright

Padre Paul Handleman

Green Genes

Jim White

Abe Partridge

Kelsey Waldon

The Larry Keel Experience

Not long ago I ran a nice article for them on the documentary they filmed

We’re recording TWO new albums, and we’ll have photo and video previews to share soon!

Photo by Vince Wallace/Story Forge Nashville

We’re thrilled to announce that we will be recording two new album projects with Dave Cobb! The first is a new Christmas album to be released in October 2019. The second will release in 2020. This year marks the tenth anniversary of our first collaboration with Dave. The Boys Are Back album was released in May 2009. And our second project with Dave, 17th Avenue Revival, released in March 2018. We will once again be working with the Lightning Rod Records/Thirty Tigers team. Duane, who is working closely with Dave in the pre-production of the projects, says, “Dave has the unique ability to record in a raw, honest, almost retro way that sounds fresh… and the results are pure magic.”

There is much to elaborate on the current status of the Oak Ridge Boys, who are in the prime of their career right now. Many people think that the apogee of their tenure in Country Music was in the 1980’s, but I digress. Right now they sound and release music that stands out among the Legends of Country Music whom are still with us now.

Id’ like to release a few official press releases from their camp, that wound up in my email box recently. i shall of course follow this all up with live coverage as I can catch up with them.

Hidden away in the hills of southern Indiana just along the banks of the Ohio River is Madison, Indiana, a quiet, but beautiful town with a history every bit as deep and wide as the river it saddles to the south. The small town has carved out a reputation as one of the most prominent tourism towns in the state with it’s beautiful classical architecture, unique shops, unrivaled scenery, and the mighty Ohio as a backdrop. One weekend out of the year is the crown jewel of attraction for the town, however: 4th of July Weekend. The historic Madison Regatta brings the fastest racing boats in the world to the waters of the Ohio River just south of town and thousands of people pour into the usually quiet little town for the kind of great American experience that is all too rare these days.

The whole town converges in the Southernmost blocks to catch a glimpse of the jet engine boats skipping across the water, or to visit the carnival set up along the river’s edge. To visit old friends and make new ones, to enjoy the freedom of summer and the freedom of America.

There’s also one badass music festival that takes place in conjunction with all of it. The Roostertail Music Festival is the new kid on the block as far as weekend festivities go, but in just a few short years it has caught national attention as a destination event that should be on your calendar the next year as soon as the current one ends.

And that is a narrative that I will absolutely echo.

Taking place Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of the week of the 4th the Roostertail Music Festival is one of the best events you’ll attend in a summer. Family friendly, clean, well organized, and best of all incredibly affordable. You won’t pay an arm and a leg to get a ticket, but you’ll get an arm and a leg’s worth of music for what you do pay.

I arrived Friday afternoon, missing the first night of music due to work, to find the town buzzing. The parade, featuring all of the jet powered boats set to race on the river throughout the week and floats from all of the local businesses, clubs, and dignitaries was about to take place. Lawn chairs lined the sidewalks, people milled about going in and out of shops, and you could feel the anticipation and excitement in the air. To the South of Main Street towards the river sits Bicentennial Park, and you couldn’t ask for a better setting for such an event. Perfectly designed for optimal viewing and the hills of Kentucky rising out of the background make the park a picture perfect place to hold a music festival.

Kicking the action off Friday just as the parade up on Main Street was ending was Louisville-based rock band The Pass. Roostertail prides itself on maintaining a diverse lineup with something for everyone, all while making an effort to shine a light on some lesser known acts out of nearby music hub Louisville, Kentucky. The stream of listeners coming into the park was steady, and not even the heat of the early July evening could keep the dancers from getting going.

Another spotlight was cast on a talented group out of Louisville following The Pass as Frederick The Younger filled the air of the park with their groovy mellow melodies. Many in the park too refuge in the shade on the West end of the park, enjoying the show out of the direct heat of the sun. Even the band’s drummer sought some relief of her own, putting her hair up in an impromptu bun, using a spare drumstick to anchor it.

Up next was the first of the nationally touring acts of the evening as hip-hop duo Little Stranger took the stage all the way from Philadelphia. Featuring guitar playing and dancing the pair had no trouble catching the attention of the still growing audience. As the sun fell into the trees the rail in front of the stage filled up with eager fans responding excitedly to each song the pair performed.

Click HERE to see our full Roostertail Music Festival Image Gallery from Day 2!

The evening took a decidedly country turn next, as Jamie Lin Wilson took ownership of the stage with her band in tow. The last time I had seen Jamie was at Tumbleweed 2018 in a solo acoustic set during the heat of the day near the end of her pregnancy. Her set that day showcased her powerful vocals and excellent songwriting, but here at Roostertail she was able to bring the heat with the full band, and did she ever deliver. Sporting a Mike and The Moonpies shirt in the kind of camaraderie that I appreciate about this movement Jamie took total control of Bicentennial Park and commanded the attention of everyone in the park. Between songs she displayed a wit and charm that rounded out the perfect total package of a set. I had never had the opportunity to see Jamie with a band, and her set left no doubt that that was my loss.

Headlining the night was Mike and The Moonpies, who have gained an incredible amount of momentum in the last 16 months, especially here in the Midwest region. The crowd pressed up against the rails several rows deep while others caught the show from their chairs throughout the park.

Mike and the boys did not disappoint, putting on what I will say is the best set I have seen them play yet. The excitement was apparent both from those in the crowd and those on the stage and it all blended for a perfect combination that results in one of those kinds of shows you hope you get to experience again some day. The energy was at fever pitch from the opening riff of “Road Crew” all the way through to end of “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way”.

In the later stages of the set Jamie Lin Wilson made her way back out to the stage and joined the band for a couple of songs, showcasing a natural chemistry with lead singer Mike Harmeier that elevated the energy and excitement even more. After a 2 song encore Mike and The Moonpies left the stage to a thunderous ovation to bring to close the second night of the Roostertail Music Festival.

My first day on the ground at the Roostertail Music Festival was a blast. The music was all great, the event staff treated me with nothing but respect and kindness, and the event as a whole just has a welcoming feel to it. Seeing Mike and The Moonpies headline the event was special for me. I had been telling venues in my area to bring them in for years, but it wasn’t until May of 2018 when Dukes Indy answered the call and booked the show. It wasn’t a sellout show, but those of us who were there made sure to tell the legend of the show to everyone who wasn’t. When they returned in March the show sold out weeks in advance, and shortly later they were announced as headliners for this event. It’s nice to see the good guys get a win, and these guys are definitely good, and Friday night at the Roostertail Music Festival was most definitely a win not just for them, but for everyone who came out to see it.

Saturday would see an earlier start time on the stage in Bicentennial Park and even more talent taking the stage, all while boats ran heat races on the river behind it, and families enjoyed the great American weekend in small town America. Join us right back here tomorrow at the Country Music Armadillo as we take a look back at the final talent filled day of the Roostertail Music Festival 2019!

Click HERE to see our full Roostertail Music Festival Image Gallery from Day 2!

(Editor’s Note: Apologies for this article not making it up on time, I had a serious family emergency that took me out of town Thursday, and I had a weekend full of previously booked activities that kept me from getting this one out until now.)

Related: Friday July 5th Roostertail Music Festival Coverage

The Ohio River valley in Madison, Indiana was full of life for the final day of the Roostertail Music Festival. Down on the river boats ran heat races and time trials all throughout the day getting ready for the Main Event races that take place on Sunday of the weekend. In Bicentennial Park the music filled the air early, and kept the beat going all day.

Kicking off the action early was Louisville’s Brent Mathis with a robust, soulful set. With a great band backing him Brent impressed from the stage with a set full of his own original offerings. Having never seen Brent before I was very impressed with the excellent set that he played, and the crowd assembled in the park (Most of which sought what shade could be found as the sky above wasn’t providing a single cloud for cover) seemed to agree, responding appreciatively to each song played.

Up next to the stage was another Louisville act as the band 16 Bones brought their driving hard rock to the hot river valley. They exploded out of the gate washing over the park with a tsunami of intensity, and never let off the gas from start to finish even in the hot July heat.

Click HERE to see our full Roostertail Music Festival Image Gallery from Day 3!

Next up on the stage was the most interesting presentation of the weekend as Edgar Red climbed onto the stage covered in head to toe with a blanket as opera music played. He strode to the center of the stage, suddenly throwing the blanket off, revealing himself guitar in hand and horned viking helmet on his head. He immediately lit into his guitar, and away he and his band ripped with their guitar-fueled rock, whipping the growing crowd into a frenzy.

Towards the end of Red’s set I took a stroll down along the river to check out some of the action on the water. All day I could hear the boats between sets roaring around on the waves. The big, jet engine powered boats skimming across the water are a real sight to see. Seeing them disappear in cascades of water as they corner at each end of the course, watching the spray they kick up in their wakes (Better known as Roostertails,) and seeing the speeds these boats reach up close is quite a treat.

Back up on the stage was the man with a heart you cannot break. Justin Wells roared to life for the growing crowd in Bicentennial Park. The mountain of a man from Lexington was in top form for the Roostertail crowd. Justin has had some vocal cord issues in recent months (nearly rupturing one!) but he’s gotten that under control, and there was certainly none to be found as he played into the late afternoon in Madison. He referenced a couple of times during his set that the new album is done and coming our way sooner than later, and from what he played of it for us on this day it’s going to be a monster, friends.

American Aquarium came to the stage as the sun began to sink to the west. My first time seeing the band (Yes, you read the right) was definitely not a disappointment. Displaying a world-class fire and intensity from the first note to the last fronted by the electrifying B.J Barham the band laid it down heavy on the swelling sea of people in the park. Their intensity only seemed to heighten as the sun sank lower, and that fed right into the crowd who were looking to increase their own rowdiness as the shade spread over them. It was the perfect early-evening blend to set the table for what was left to come.

Click HERE to see our full Roostertail Music Festival Image Gallery from Day 3!

Georgia’s own Brent Cobb was up next, the first of the night’s two headliners. Backed up with an excellent band Brent took command of the stage and the audience gathered to watch him. A frenetic energy accompanied him throughout each song he played. Between songs Brent would take a moment to explain the songs, and what their meaning to him, and why he loved them. Brent played a truly incredible set without a sour note as the crowd continued to swell in the park.

As the stage was switching over for the last set of the night down on the river the first firework exploded in the sky. Launching from a barge out on the river, the Regatta puts on one of the most impressive fireworks displays I have ever seen. I’m not a big fan of fireworks, but even I was thoroughly awed and impressed by the show on display. Lasting nearly 20 minutes in length the display is one of the most impressive parts of an all around impressive weekend.

Related: Friday July 5th Roostertail Music Festival Coverage

When the fireworks on the river finished the fireworks on the stage began as Whiskey Myers came out to a thunderous ovation. A massive new wave of people filed into the park from the river banks where they had stayed to watch the fireworks, and the sea of people was impressive sight to see. Even more impressive was the music on the stage. Whiskey Myers threw it down as fast and as hard as the frenzied crowd could pick it up. They played a healthy mix of songs from previous albums as well as songs that will be out on their new album (that many who pre-ordered already have.) It was a raucous and rowdy display from the band, just the kind that they have come to be known for, and they held nothing back, showering the Madison crowd with every not they could.

At one point Brent Cobb sauntered back out on the stage and joined the band for a song. Brent has been touring regularly with the band recently and the energy on display as they collaborated was undeniable. The band played until after the midnight hour, and then came back for a two song encore. it was one hell of a barn burning set to headline the badass Roostertail Music Festival 2019 lineup.

After their set the Roostertail Music Festival staff and volunteers who worked not just during the weekend, but throughout the entire year to bring the event to life were brought on to the stage and showered with thanks by the fans. The team worked tirelessly to make the Roostertail Music Festival one of the best festivals in the country this summer and that is exactly what they did.

Final Thoughts…

Friends, I honestly cannot stress this enough to you: The Roostertail Music Festival and the Madison Regatta are the perfect all-American weekend getaway. World-class everything in a small town setting. It’s what the 4th of July weekend was always meant to be: The Great American Weekend where there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Where memories don’t cost a small fortune to make, but the memories you do make will be worth a small fortune. You simply could not ask for a more price-friendly weekend experience, a more beautiful environment for a music festival, for a more accommodating venue, or for a better team of people bringing the event to life than you’ll find at the Roostertail Music Festival and Regatta.

The weekend returns next year and you’d be making quite the mistake if you aren’t already eyeballing your calendar for a trip to the hills of southern Indiana to be a part of the 2020 Roostertail Music Festival and Madison Regatta.

Roostertail Music Festival On Facebook
Madison Regatta On Facebook
MadisonRegatta.com

Thanks:

I want to give a very big thanks to Brent Turner and Matt Wells for allowing me the opportunity to come down and bring this coverage of the 2019 Roostertail Music Festival here to the Country Music Armadillo. Brent reached out to me about being a part of the weekend before the lineup was announced last year, and after attending the 2018 show (Headlined by Turnpike Troubadours) as a fan and loving what I saw I was more than happy to jump on board. I’m already ready for 2020!

I want to give another big thanks to the rest of their excellent team, all of whom could not have been any nicer and more accommodating to me during my time on the ground. Some of the most friendly and helpful folks I have had the privilege to work with, I absolutely appreciate their heart and dedication to this great event.

Thanks to my beautiful wife Melinda for letting me run off on the holiday weekend to do this thing I do. She was supposed to make this adventure with me, but babysitting plans changed late and she had to sit this one out. The only thing that could make Roostertail any better is experiencing it with the love of my life, and we’re going to make sure that happens in 2020.

Lastly thanks to all of you, the readers. Thank you for your support in reading this, thank you for your support of the event if you were there, and thanks to all who stopped to say “Hi” and speak during the weekend. I enjoy seeing old friends and making new ones during these excursions as much as anything else. If you have enjoyed reading about these two days of badass music I sincerely hope you’ll consider coming out to experience it yourself in 2020. I guarantee you won’t regret it.

See you on the banks of the Ohio in 2020!

If YOU have a show YOU would like added to my list PLEASE email me at garyhayes2@yahoo.com. I literally watch more than 40 venues in Nashville plus belong to many concert websites in order to bring you this coverage. NEW IN 2018, folks I am always looking for ways to enhance what I do for you. So this year I’ll be reporting on further Kentucky shows, and further Tennessee shows as well.

Mr. Joshua and I cover hundreds of shows a year, and many festivals in person. Online, we cover 200 festivals yearly and bring a LOT of news to the masses. Folks WHATEVER YOU DO PLEASE support live venue music.

Blackfoot Gypsies
Mercy Lounge August 2nd

Red Shahan
The Warehouse In Bowling Green August 2nd

Brett Cobb
Rye Davis
Spillway August 3rd

The Bottle Rockets
Beaver Dam Ky August 3rd

Steel Woods

John Anderson
Country Music Hall Of Came August 8th

Mark Chesnutt
Cahoots Dance Hall August 9th

Erin Enderlin
3rd And Lindsley August 10th

Ray Wylie Hubbard
3rd and Lindsley August 11th

Robbie Fulks
3rd and Lindsley August 14th

Missy Raines And The New hip
3rd And Lindsley August 14th

The Dirty South
The Basement August 14th

James Carothers
Southgate House Revival August 16th

Boo Day
Cambria hotel August 17th

Raelyn Nelson
The 5 Spot August 19th

Read Southall
The Basement East August 22nd

Tanya Tucker
Exit In August 22nd

Darrin Bradbury
3rd And Lindsey August 23rd

Jimmy Fortune
Kentucky Opry August 24th

Rhonda Vincent And The Rage
The Caverns August 24th

Band Of Heathens
3rd And Lindsley August 25th

Lost Dog Street Band
Acme Feed And Seed August 26th

Rock Bottom String Band
Phat Bites August 28th

Austin Lucas
The Basement August 29th

Tim Atwood
Two Rivers Campground September 1st

Mandolin Orange
Ryman Auditorium September 6 and 7th

Dwight Yoakam
Ryman Auditorium September 8th and 9th

Supersuckers
Little Harpeth Brewing September 8th

Holly Williams
City Winery September 8th

Old Crow Medicine Show
Bluegrass Caverns September 8th

Dead Horses
Mercy Lounge September 10th

Darrin Bradburry
mercy Lounge September 12th

Whiskey Myers
Minglewood Hall September 13th

The Mavericks
Ryman Auditorium September 13th

Drew Holcomb
Ryman Auditorium September 14th’h

Caleb Caudle
The Anchor Fellowship September 14th

David Allan Coe
The Daviess County Lion’s Club Fairgrounds In Philpot Ky September 14th

Hogslop String Band
IBMM Owensboro Ky September 15th

Zepheniah O’Hora
The Basement September 19th

Rhiannon Giddens
City Winery September 21st

Whiskey Myers
Bourbon And Beyond September 22nd

Belle Plaine
The 5 Spot September 24th

Gene Watson
Kentucky Opry October 25th and 26th

Greensky Bluegrass
The Caverns September 25th

The Steel Woods
Minglewood Hall September 26th

Stoney LaRue
3rd And Lindsey September 28th

Jon Pardi
Ryman Auditorium October 1st and 2nd

Greensky Bluegrass
Minglewood Hall October 2nd

Lara Hope And The Ark Tones
Nashville Palace October 3rd

Cody Johnson
Owensboro Sportscenter October 4th

Chris Stapleton
Fed ex Forum Memphis Tn October 5th

Trishia Yearwood
Schermerhorn Symphony Center October 5th

Bonnie Bishop
3Rd And Lindsley October 6th

Ian Now
Exit Inn October 10th

Jesse Dayton
The Basement October 11th

David Ball
American Legion Post 82 October 15th

Infamous Stringdusters
the Caverns October 18th

Joecephus And The George Jonestown Massacre
Exit In October 20th

Kristina Murray
American Legion Post 82 October 23rd

Kacey Musgraves
Bridgestone Arena October 25th

Ian Now
The Southgate House Revival November 1st

Chris Stapleton
KFC Yum Center November 2nd

Josh Abbott Band
William Clark Green
Marathon Music Works November 3rd

Chris Stapleton
Memphis Tn November 5th

Hayes Carll
Ryman Auditorium November 6th

Josh Abbott
Cannery Ballroom November 7th

The Rhythm Shakers
Nashville Palace November 8th

Southern Culture On The Skids
high Watt November 9th

Ryan Bingham
The Ryman Auditorium November 11th

The Charlie Daniels Band
Bridgestone Arena November 20th

Del McCoury Band
The Caverns November 23rd

Josh Abott
Mercury Ballroom Louisville Ky December 5th

Reverend Horton Heat
Cannery Ballroom December 18th

David Ball
American Legion Post 82 December 21st

Unknown Hinson
Exit Inn December 31st

Brandi Carlile
January 14,15th and 16th 2020
Ryman Auditorium

Rhonda Vincent – “Like I Could”

8/24 Pelham, TN / The Caverns / Buy Tickets
8/30 New Richmond, Quebec, CANADA / New Richmond Bluegrass Festival
8/31 Thomas Point Beach, ME / Bluegrass Festival
9/1 Thomas Point Beach, ME / Bluegrass Festival
9/7 Wagoner, OK / Bluegrass & Chili Cook Off
9/12 Versailles, KY / Kentucky Castle
9/13 Sullivan, IL / Backyard Bluegrass Festival
9/19 Bean Blossom, IN / Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival
9/20 Kodak, TN / Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival
9/21 Conway, MO / Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival
9/24 Branson, MO / Clay Cooper Theatre
9/27 Shipshewana, IN / Blue Gate Theatre
9/28 Vine Grove, KY / Vine Grove Bluegrass Festival
10/4 Franklin, NC / Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
10/5 Lebanon, VA
10/12 Waldron, AR / Turkey Track Bluegrass Festival
10/13 Jefferson City, MO / Windstone Entertainment Event Center
10/18 Mamaroneck, NY / The Emelin Theatre
10/19 Hamilton, OH / Parrish Auditorium
10/24 Anderson, SC / Anderson Bluegrass Festival
For Rhonda’s most up-to-date tour schedule, visit rhondavincent.com

 

The Grey Fox Way

My buddy Mr. shooter Jennings stays busy, and so does Miss Brandi Carlile. Mr. Shooter is currently on tour at The Big Sky Festival in Montana, and Miss Brandi is currently messing around with her new supergroup the Highwomen, which I am working on writing about now. She announced a huge Ryman concert run in 2020 and is having a GREAT year, however she stopped to get together with Mr. Shooter Jennings to co produce the ALL NEW album from Country Legend Miss Tanya Tucker .

For the first time in 17 years we will have new music from her in the form of the 10 track album called “While I’m Livin’ “, which is available now for pre order and will be available on August 23rd.  The first single and video have been released already for the song called the “The Wheels Of Laredo”, and I have embedded them here.

I have a lot of respect for what Shooter Jennings does for so many people like her and Hellbound Glory, and Billy Don Burns. He releases a lot of music that not many else would. This album is going  to be a blockbuster turning point for her career, and will hopefully reignite her as she has announced a show at the Exit In this fall.

This album is reportedly molded after her life and the places she has been, like the song “Mustang Ridge” which is about her troubled youth and hard times growing up in central Texas. “High Ridin Horses” was a 1987 song that was selected by Shooter that featured Mr. David Lynn Jones and his father, Waylon Jennings.

I am going to be eagerly writing more on this subject at a later date folks!

1. Mustang Ridge (written by Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)
2. The Wheels Of Laredo (written by Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)
3. I Don’t Owe You Anything (written by Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)
4. The Day My Heart Goes Still (written by Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)
5. High Ridin’ Heroes (written by David Lynn Jones)
6. The House That Built Me (written by Tom Douglas and Allen Shamblin)
7. Hard Luck (written by John C. “Pete” Bailey, David Lee Mitchell, Raymond L. Turner and Jerry Ontiberoz)
8. Rich (written by Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)
9. Seminole Wind Calling (written by Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)
10. Bring My Flowers Now (written by Tanya Tucker, Brandi Carlile, Tim Hanseroth and Phil Hanseroth)

TEXAS TROUBADOUR THEATRE

2416 MUSIC VALLEY DRIVE

FREE ADMISSION

THE ERNEST TUBB MIDNITE JAMBOREE IS THE SECOND LONGEST RUNNING RADIO SHOW IN HISTORY.
WE INVITE YOU TO BE A PART OF THE LIVE AUDIENCE SATURDAY NIGHT AT 10:00 PM.
ADMISSION IS FREE AT OUR TEXAS TROUBADOUR THEATRE.
THE SHOW IS BROADCAST ON AM 650 – WSM AT 12 MIDNIGHT.
ALL SHOWS AND ARTISTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
PHONE 615-255-7503 – PLEASE DO NOT CALL UNTIL THE WEEK OF SHOW.
MC OF THE MIDNITE JAMBOREE IS JENNIFER HERRON.

I keep up with so many ongoing Country Music function, that it would be ludicrous to continuously focus on the same acts and the same community time after time. Not only would it become mundane but it would copy too many other websites out there covering the same content, and it’s been quite some time since I took a fast jaunt down to the Midnite Jamboree.

Anybody that keeps up with Texas music and the ongoing spat here can tell you the age old argument of “There is no real Country in Nashville” ( YAWN) can easily tell you that if you look and listen to the right avenues you can find some TRULY GOOD Country Music here in town. It’s just totally ignored by those people that want to gripe about it.

Mr. Joe Rucker is one of my local friends that I have known for years and is enjoying his two girls growing up while playing music locally. he isn’t one of the many road dog touring bands I know, however he has many years of shows and music under his belt. Make no mistake that beneath his gentle and easy demeanor lies a raging Country Music beast, that like me salivates for steel guitar laced Honky Tonk sadness.

Every week this show begins with music from the great legend Mr. Jimmie Rogers whom Mr. Ernest Tubb idolized along with others like Mr. Merle Haggard. There are many breaks and recordings as Miss Jennifer Herron advertises new products for sale in the store, and online as well.

Mr. Joe played the Harlan Howard classic “Above And Beyond” that Mr. Buck Owens released in 1960, additionally Mr. Wynn Stewart garnered much commercial success from the song in 1967 on his album he did for Hilltop Records. To find that album is a top find for vinyl collectors abroad. Another song he played that REALLY sparked my attention tonight was “House Of Blue Lovers” from Mr. James O’Gwynn. He was a VERY obscure artist active in the early 60s produced by Mr. Pappy Daily, who was one of the many producers that were patient enough to work with a young George Jones when he was insistently inebriated.

He played an original called “150 Old Mims Road”, a song about his Grandparents whom lived across the street as he grew up. He is cutting that song on a new album coming in August, along with a few more he said. Along with his band that consisted of Mr. Pete Finney on steel guitar ( Reba, The Judds, Patty Loveless and more), Mr. Rob Price on bass (Gail Davies, Crystal Gayle), Mr. Rick lonow (Poco, Flying Burrito Bros.), Mr. Will Barrow on keys (Suzy Boguss) and Mr. Andy Reiss on guitar whom is a legend in his own right, Mr. Joe played songs like “Happy Hour Blues” by Mr. Jim Glaser.

Having been mentored at an early age by Country Legend Mr. Hank Locklin he showed his affection for his late teacher by playing “Send Me The Pillow” one of his most beloved classic songs of all. Initially the song did not chart, and it wasn’t until he made a 1957 re release of the song for it to chart at 5th. He also played the Red Foley version of “Peace In The Valley”, before receiving an honorary award from the ALM nashville Chapter.

The ALM is the Acadamey  Of Local Musicians  that recognizes local artists in different communities across America for their contributions to the art of music. Also there was a great advertisement for the new Gospel album from Mr. Tony Booth on Heart Of Texas Records, I love what Mr. Tracy Pitcox is doing out there in Texas.

Country Legend Miss Margie Singleton is a very special performer to me right now, as she is one of the last remaining people whom were signed to the Starday label in the late 1950’s. Along with her late husband Mr. Shelby Singleton they produced and wrote more Country music that I could name in a short article like this one.

She performed her famous song that Mr. Brooke Benton cut called “Lie To Me”, that he cut in 1962. She also played a wonderful Gospel song called “The Road To Damascus”. I distinctly remember her from the movie Road To Nashville with Mr. Marty Robbins and others I used to enjoy as a kid.

The final guest was Mr. Guy Gilchrist, whom played a song he wrote with Mr. Jimmy Payne called “Angel In Black”.  Mr. Guy was the original designer of the muppets for Mr. Jim Henson, and he drew for the comic strip of Nancy for years. he is also a great Country Music songwriter in his own right.

MIDNITE JAMBOREE BROADCASTS
TEXAS TROUBADOUR THEATRE
TAPINGS ARE SATURDAY NIGHT AT 10:00 PM
(unless otherwise noted)
Doors Open After Sound Check

JULY 27
BROOK & DARIN ALDRIDGE
Broadcast #3771

AUGUST 3
BOBBY MARQUEZ
Broadcast #3772

AUGUST 10
BEN HALL
Broadcast #3773

AUGUST 17
GREG GARING
Broadcast #3774

AUGUST 24
CRYSTAL GAYLE
Broadcast #3775

AUGUST 31
RUSS VARNELL
Broadcast #3776

SEPTEMBER 7
SALUTE TO ERNEST TUBB
w/GLENN DOUGLAS TUBB
Broadcast #3777

SEPTEMBER 14
JESSE LEE JONES
& BRAZILBILLY
Broadcast #3778

SEPTEMBER 21
DAVID FRIZZELL
Broadcast #3779

SEPTEMBER 28
LULU ROMAN
Broadcast #3780

OCTOBER 5
TIM ATWOOD
Broadcast #3781

OCTOBER 12
RON WILLIAMS
Broadcast #3782
OCTOBER 19
LISA LAYNE
Broadcast #3783

OCTOBER 26
JESSE MCREYNOLDS
Broadcast #3784

NOVEMBER 2
LEONA WILLIAMS
Broadcast #3785

NOVEMBER 9
RIDERS IN THE SKY
Broadcast #3786

NOVEMBER 16
SALUTE TO STEEL GUITAR
w/LYNN OWSLEY & GUESTS
Broadcast #3787

NOVEMBER 23
MARGIE SINGLETON
Broadcast #3788

NOVEMBER 30
DENNIS STROUGHMATT
Broadcast #3789

DECEMBER 7
THE COWPOKES
Broadcast #3790

DECEMBER 14
BOBBY TOMBERLIN
& SPECIAL GUESTS
Broadcast #3791

DECEMBER 21
JEANNIE SEELY
Broadcast #3792

In 2018 The Devil Makes Three unveiled some of their finest work in the form of the 2018’s album “Chains Are Broken”.  The California based trio have been leaders in the Americana community for a very very long time now, gracing stages all over the world with their music that embellishes many different sounds through the years.

This band is amazing live, and this venue is on EVERYONE’S bucket list. In fact this weekend I’ll be writing about the very first appearance of Mr. Cody Jinks at Red Rocks as well, but right now I wanted to tell you about this album.

This LIVE baby has seventeen songs on it spanning all of their album from back to their humble beginning in the form of their self titled 2002 debut. In fact it opens with “The Bullet” which was from that album, and features their wonderful three piece harmonies. It also features the toe tapping fun song called “Spinning Like A Top”, from the 2013 album I’m A Stranger Here.

The Redemption And Ruin album boasted the song “Drunken Hearted Man”, along with “All Hail” from the Do Wrong Right album. Now, this album concluded with one of their more popular songs “Aces And “Eights” from that same album. In my opinion it is one of Roots music’s more iconic albums, and this band is one of Americana’s more popular bands.

One of the songs that speaks to me the most lyrically and also intertwines the vocals of the three members Mr. Pete Bernhard, Miss Lucia Turino and Mr. Cooper Mcbean is the title song off their 2018 ‘Chains Are Broken” album. As a recovered addict I also can love the meaning of this song, along with many others in their catalogue.

This song called “Bad Idea” is from the “Chains Are Broken” album followed by one of my favorite songs they do the touching Gospel ballad “What Would You Give” . Especially with their three part harmonies and as they break into another one off “Redemption And Ruin” called “There’ll Be A Jubilee”, which is about that wonderful day the Lord calls his children home.

“Old Number Seven” is an OLD SONG from WAY BACK to their first album as well, and like I said I regard their debut album as an Americana and Roots music classic album. If you do not know this album you MUST go check it out, the fiddle work is exquisite and sweet. I mean what can be bad about a song about Jack Daniels whiskey?

“Pray For Rain” and also “Deep Down” were also songs off the album “Chains Are “Broken” that closed the album out quite well along with the previously mentioned “Aces And Twos” . Overall the song choices were spectacular and it was recorded very well. They have an earlier live album from 2011 at the Mystic theater, which had the song called “They Call That Religion” that pokes fun at fake preachers and fake churches…we won’t mention names……This band has a home here on Gary Hayes Country. Com and always will.

“We are super excited to kick off our inaugural event in Fort Worth, Texas,” says Joe Kelly. “We have been distributing singles to Texas radio for quite some time and we continue to hear how important the format is to the music business especially in Texas. This event will allow for industry veterans and newcomers to meet each other and learn tricks of the trade to help them furthering their goals. Our TRACtionTX  monitoring system and chart were designed to help Texas Country grow through transparency and real actionable data. We look forward to sharing and showing how the system works and how artists, managers and agents can use it to monetize their efforts.”

Panels throughout the day will feature some of the top artists and radio programmers sharing ideas and educating attendees.

TRACtion Texas is the premiere digital delivery service for Texas Country Music and the only U.S. based monitored airplay chart serving the Texas Country community.  TRACtion has the ability to empower everyone in the business to formulate targeted and focused marketing and promotion plans.

For more information or registration: www.texascountryradiosummit.com

By Joshua Wallace

Billy Strings just dropped the first single from his new record titled Home called “Taking Water”.   The new album is coming out on September 27th.  You’re going to want to get this one.  We will have a full review on it closer to release, but let me just tell you this.  Billy Strings is one of the best acoustic guitar players alive and this new single “Taking Water” is proof.  Billy Strings reminds me of when you would hear Chris Stapleton with The Steeldrivers.  So much talent and you just know he is going to break out of the bluegrass scene and onto bigger things in a similar way very soon.  You can pre-order the new record Home starting tomorrow and there are a bunch of tour dates this fall starting with a two night run in Atlanta, GA at Terminal West in September.

If YOU have a show YOU would like added to my list PLEASE email me at garyhayes2@yahoo.com. I literally watch more than 40 venues in Nashville plus belong to many concert websites in order to bring you this coverage. NEW IN 2018, folks I am always looking for ways to enhance what I do for you. So this year I’ll be reporting on further Kentucky shows, and further Tennessee shows as well.

Mr. Joshua and I cover hundreds of shows a year, and many festivals in person. Online, we cover 200 festivals yearly and bring a LOT of news to the masses. Folks WHATEVER YOU DO PLEASE support live venue music.

Rye Davis
Bourbon Barrel Tavern July 25th

Vince Gill
Ryman Auditorium July 25th

The Steel Woods
The Shed Maryville Tn July 27th

Andrea Colburn And Mud
The Local July 28th

Steel Woods (opening for R.E.O.Speedwagon)
Ryman Auditorium July 29th

Kristina Murray
American Legion Post 82 July 30th

The Steel Wheels
City Winery July 22nd

The Legendary Shack Shakers
Southgate House Revival August 1st

Nick Dittmeier And The Sawdusters
The Wicked Eyed Woman August 1st

Blackfoot Gypsies
Mercy Lounge August 2nd

Brett Cobb
Rye Davis
Spillway August 3rd

The Bottle Rockets
Beaver Dam Ky August 3rd

Steel Woods

John Anderson
Country Music Hall Of Came August 8th

Mark Chesnutt
Cahoots Dance Hall August 9th

Erin Enderlin
3rd And Lindsley August 10th

Ray Wylie Hubbard
3rd and Lindsley August 11th

James Carothers
Southgate House Revival August 16th

Raelyn Nelson
The 5 Spot August 19th

Read Southall
The Basement East August 22nd

Tanya Tucker
Exit In August 22nd

Jimmy Fortune
Kentucky Opry August 24th

Rhonda Vincent And The Rage
The Caverns August 24th

Lost Dog Street Band
Acme Feed And Seed August 26th

Austin Lucas
The Basement August 29th

Tim Atwood
Two Rivers Campground September 1st

Mandolin Orange
Ryman Auditorium September 6 and 7th

Dwight Yoakam
Ryman Auditorium September 8th and 9th

Supersuckers
Little Harpeth Brewing September 8th

Holly Williams
City Winery September 8th

Whiskey Myers
Minglewood Hall September 13th

The Mavericks
Ryman Auditorium September 13th

Drew Holcomb
Ryman Auditorium September 14th

Hogslop String Band
IBMM Owensboro Ky September 15th

Rhiannon Giddens
City Winery September 21st

Whiskey Myers
Bourbon And Beyond September 22nd

Gene Watson
Kentucky Opry October 25th and 26th

Greensky Bluegrass
The Caverns September 25th

The Steel Woods
Minglewood Hall September 26th

Jon Pardi
Ryman Auditorium October 1st and 2nd

Greensky Bluegrass
Minglewood Hall October 2nd

Chris Stapleton
Fed ex Forum Memphis Tn October 5th

Trishia Yearwood
Schermerhorn Symphony Center October 5th

Ian Now
Exit Inn October 10th

David Ball
American Legion Post 82 October 15th

Infamous Stringdusters
the Caverns October 18th

Joecephus And The George Jonestown Massacre
Exit In October 20th

Kristina Murray
American Legion Post 82 October 23rd

Ian Now
The Southgate House Revival November 1st

Chris Stapleton
KFC Yum Center November 2nd

Josh Abbott Band
William Clark Green
Marathon Music Works November 3rd

Chris Stapleton
Memphis Tn November 5th

Josh Abbott
Cannery Ballroom November 7th

The Rhythm Shakers
Nashville Palace November 8th

Southern Culture On The Skids
high Watt November 9th

Ryan Bingham
The Ryman Auditorium November 11th

The Charlie Daniels Band
Bridgestone Arena November 20th

Del McCoury Band
The Caverns November 23rd

David Ball
American Legion Post 82 December 21st

Unknown Hinson
Exit Inn December 31st

Brandi Carlile
January 14,15th and 16th 2020
Ryman Auditorium

DALLAS, TX (June 7, 2019) — “Here we are again, for the first time”: It may be a strange statement from a band that has been delighting audiences with its unique take on Western Swing music for 15 years and counting. However, it’s the perfect way for Dallas’ The Quebe Sisters to approach their fourth release, a self-titled album that is due out September 20th.

The five-piece, centered around real-life sisters Grace, Sophia, and Hulda Quebe, is already well-loved for its glowing sibling harmonies and authentic Americana influences, but the group is never afraid of branching out and building on its roots. “This album represents a new phase of our band and the start of a new direction for us,” the sisters explain.

“In a lot of ways, the process of making this album felt like starting over; deconstructing what we knew about music and then trying to put it back together again. That’s the primary reason why we felt a self-titled album would be appropriate.”

The set was recorded at Texas Treefort Studio, which the band terms “the best kept secret in all of Austin.” The studio features Jim Vollentine at the helm where the group went for a self-production route in order to deeply explore their synergy.

“It was a holistic process, involving everyone in the band,” they relate. “We’ve never arranged and recorded so collaboratively before, so it’s very rewarding to hear everyone’s musical fingerprint in the final sound.”

Fans of the Quebes’ previous three albums will doubtlessly appreciate the new directions they chose for this collection. In addition to including original compositions for the very first time–Sophia, Grace, and bass player Daniel Parr put their pens to three of the 10 songs–the trio chose to branch out from its signature triple fiddles and three-part harmony vocals to spotlight individual solos, showing off each member’s strengths.

While taking pioneering steps in that direction, the band worked at the same time to preserve its traditional vibes. In order to create an inviting audio experience, the band recorded together in one room, using vintage gear for a warm and classic sound. They also selected a range of covers perfectly suited to progression — from Jesse Harris’ “Always Seem to Get Things Wrong” to Willie Nelson’s “Summer of Roses.” The overall result is a collection of songs simultaneously strong and wistful; peacefully blending new and old waves.

“This album came from the curation of our inspirations,” note the Quebes. “We looked at all the styles that we play, and found a single performance that embodied the essence of everything we loved about that style. Then we dug into the mood and feel of those performances, and used them as reference points for how we played the album.”

The Quebe Sisters have toured North America, Europe, and Russia over the past decade and a half, and will be bringing their efforts to a national stage later this year in support of the new album.

For more information and tour dates, please visit For more information and tour dates, please visit www.quebesisters.com

The Royal Hounds are amazing Rockabilly band with an eclectic variety of influences that derive from Memphis to Bakersfield. I mean, if you study their roots they are not ashamed of history. I actually moved up in respect for them on a few levels after seeing how much love they have for  obscure people in music history the likes of Mr. Billy Lee Riley, and Mr. Bobby Darin.

They are am intense three piece band from the Nashville area fronted by Mr. Scott Hinds and include the guitar wizardry of Mr. Matheus Canteri from Brazil. According to their press release it took many years to clear his visa to work in America. Now this album really stuck out for me from the other two albums because they really focused on more guitar riffs and solos than lyrics. The songs are just plain out Rockabilly FUN, and easy to “get”…you don’t have to sit and analyze anything. Just DANCE and JAM on these 11 songs.

He came across Mr. Matheus on a chance video he saw on social media and sought after him in a heavy way. You see the guitar RIGHT AWAY on the song “The Walk” it just opens right on your face on the first song, and can get a live audience involved with a HEY HEY. This song is for people like ME, I LOVE MUSIC but I cannot dance at ALL. I’m clumsy as a stump! This song spoke to me as a person, and made me feel like he wrote it about ME, and that sold the album to me on the first song.

This band has an amazing live set as they stand on the bass and shred guitars, and stand on their drum kit. Mr. Nathan Place, from Texas is an accredited producer in his own right, and is the current drummer . However the drummer on this album was Mr. Scott Billingsley. Mr. Nathan has toured America as a drummer and fiddle player and has earned his own place in the independent music scene with hard work and attention to detail.

The dancing songs continue with a song called ‘Whackity Do” which features a fun stomping beat you can twist to or whatever dancing you like to enjoy. It goes on to the song “The Parthenon” , however one of the songs that I enjoyed was the guitar filled song called “Pororoca” , which is an actual thing that happens on the Amazon river. A giant wave makes it’s way down the river and people go out to ride the wave. It’s kind of a personal shout out to Mr. Matheus homeland.

“Tweakers From Outer Space” and “Pizza Party” were two crazy songs with lyrics that are just nuts, and it’s just fun to listen to them. The album gets to be the best during the song ‘Road Scholar” which chronicles how difficult their road life is. You know folks, I never realized how hard the road really was until I began following these bands around America. I load and unload semi trucks on a loading dock on third shift, so I treasure those real country trucker songs. This song really hit the mark for me! This song really put me to mind of Red Simpson and others that brought out that genre.

“Herbie The Butterfly” is a song about a butterfly that got caught on the band’s tour van windshield wiper, and he went to Tupelo, Tennessee and Texas. He went to butterfly heaven and lived a great life up there. Another great jam song on this album was “Chinese Buffet” I mean everybody loves to pile up plates of crap from a good hole in the wall buffet. For 10 bucks you can tear up some food! The album closes with a rousing cover of ‘Ghost Riders In The Sky”, written by Mr. Stan Jones in 1948.

This album becomes available for sale on AUGUST 2ND

Wed, JUL 10
WDVX Tennessee Shines ALBUM RELEASE PARTY!
Knoxville, TN

Tue, JUL 16
The 5 Spot
Nashville, TN

Fri, JUL 19
Brennan’s Irish Pub
Birmingham, AL

Sat, JUL 20
Siberia
New Orleans, LA

Sun, JUL 21
Gasa Gasa
New Orleans, LA

Tue, JUL 23
Robert’s Western World
Nashville, TN

Thu, JUL 25
JV’s Restaurant
Falls Church, VA

Fri, JUL 26
10th Ave Burrito Co
Belmar, NJ

Sat, JUL 27
Skinny Dennis
Brooklyn, NY

Tue, JUL 30
Purple Fiddle
Thomas, WV

Wed, JUL 31
O’Mainnin’s Pub & Grill
Bristol, TN

Wed, AUG 7
The Southgate House Revival
Newport, KY

Fri, AUG 9
Casa Nueva
Athens, OH

Sat, AUG 10
The Rockabilly Ruckus
Cortland, OH

Thu, AUG 15
Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, TN

Fri, AUG 16
Smoky Mountain Brewery in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge, TN

Sat, AUG 17
Second Bell Music Festival
Knoxville, TN

Thu, AUG 22
Madlife Stage & Studios
Woodstock, GA

Fri, AUG 23
Mule Camp Tavern
Gainesville, GA

Sat, AUG 24
Sixes Tavern
Cartersville, GA

Sat, AUG 31
Pistons Bar & Grill
Evansville, IN

Sun, SEP 1
Eville Shindig
Evansville, IN

Sat, SEP 7
The Rebel Rousers Rumble
Ashland, OH

Sun, SEP 8
w/ The Billy Price Band @ Natalie’s Coal Fired Pizza
Worthington, OH

Fri, SEP 13
Zach an Fergie’s Wedding
Louisville, KY

Fri, SEP 20
Smoky Mountain Brewery in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge, TN

Sat, SEP 21
Private Party
Tn, Knoxville

Sun, SEP 22
O’Mainnin’s Pub & Grill
Bristol, TN

Sat, NOV 2
Jimmy’s Sports Bar & Grill
Lebanon, TN

Fri, NOV 8
Alive After Five at the KMA
Knoxville, TN

Fri, NOV 22
Paddy Wagon Irish Pub
Richmond, KY

I’m extremely excited for 2019 and 2020 just for the simple fact that so many artists whom were prominent in the 1980’s and 1990’s are popping up now making new albums that sound better than ever. I have a huge list of names that I could rattle off with names of people to expect in 2019 alone.

One of those names would be Vince Gill, as he announces the August 23rd release of his new album called “Okie” which embraces and celebrates his Oklahoma roots. It’s been reported that this album will address some of the issues we have today in society, as the album itself is named after an old derogatory name for an Oklahoma resident.

They were viewed as scum that migrated westward during the dust bowl era of 1930-1937 when severe drought plagued the nation and many went elsewhere to find work. This is more of a concept album in it’s own right by all means, in that it displays so much knowledge and life lived lessons in these twelve songs.

Mr. Vince Gill wrote nine of the songs on the new record solo, and co-wrote the other three. His co-writers on Okie are Leslie Satcher, Charlie Worsham and Dean Dillon. So far there are two singles released from this album, one was released on Mother’s Day and it was called ” A Letter To My Mama”. The second one was called ” When My Amy Prays”, inspired by his wife of 19 years Miss Amy Grant.

Also on the album is ‘Forever Changed,’ which Gill introduced at the 2018 Country Radio Seminar in Nashville. Written from a female perspective, it focuses on a story of sexual assault. The song will stir poignant memories of that standing-ovation CRS performance, during which Gill opened up about his own #metoo story, of how a gym teacher had attempted to molest him when he was in middle school.

” A Letter To My Mama” in my opinion is just amazingly classic Vince Gill back into his prime form, with his heart on his sleeve and that sad lonely voice that could make tears emanate from a rock. Vince Gill could make Mr. Roy Acuff cry backstage at the Opry every time, and I think he could again if he wanted to….and he evidentially does.

To be honest folks my co writer Mr. Joshua Wallace did a great review of the new Aaron Watson album “Red Bandanna”. He has a big and busy schedule well through 2019 playing some big shows across America. He played some HEADLINE shows at the Ryman Auditorium last year, and did a great job.

As far as the overall album goes I myself enjoyed Underdog more than his next two albums, it just had more of an independent “feel” to them. I STILL LOVED this album, but it’s getting a little too pop sounding for my personal taste as he moves forward. Of course that’s just basically MY opinion of his new albums as of late.

But the more I sit and dwell upon JUST WHY he may be doing this, I can not blame him for trying to become more friendly to larger audiences that embrace a more mainstream sound. I mean I’m not hip on Mr. Eric Church or his music but to say he didn’t expose a whole new echelon of people to the Drive By Truckers by taking them on tour with him would be ludicrous. I was thankful to Kid Rock for what he did for Hellbound Glory as well. I don’t normally make a big huge stink when my favorite artists throw a different sound at me in the name of audience growth or trying new markets.

I cannot take away from his twenty plus years of creating and writing and distributing independent music on his own terms and his own fashion. Just because I dislike one or two of his albums, I just cannot justify tossing him totally aside for that one reason. I actually look forward to him live one day soon, and I’ll go from there folks. He is still ONE HELL of a prominent frontrunner in the Texas Country Music community.

7/12 – Riverfront Live!, Cincinnati, OH
7/13 – Jam in the Valley, Varysburg, NY
7/18 – Adams County Fair, Hastings, NE
7/19 – Lazy Gators, Lake of the Ozarks, MO
7/20 – Texas Live!, Arlington, TX
7/26 – A Night in the Country, Yerington, NV
7/27 – Clos La Chance Winery, San Martin, CA
8/1 – Adams County Fair, Brighton, CO
8/2 – Starlight Ranch, Amarillo TX
8/3 – Whitewater Amphitheater, New Braunfels, TX
8/9 – Brewster St. Parking Lot Party, Corpus Christi, TX
8/10 – Ford Park Arena, Beaumont, TX
8/15 – KC Live!, Kansas City
8/16 – Revolution Music Room, Little Rock, AR
8/23 – Colorado State Fair, Pueblo, CO
9/5 – Washington State Fair, Puyallup, WA
9/7 – New Mexico State Fair, Albuquerque, NM
9/20 – Southport Hall, Jefferson (New Orleans), LA
9/27 – Tulsa State Fair, Tulsa, OK
10/11 – Rialto Theatre, Tucson, AZ

I have a PILE of album I have to feature on here, and this week I plan to catch up on some of them like this man Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts from Denver Colorado. In 2019 they released a damn fine Outlaw Country album with enough twang to keep my foot tapping at my desk for an hour or so. Every song was a decent 2:30 plus, which was good and the songs all complimented one another quite well.

The backup vocals from this band were really awesome and brought out the lead vocals very well, on songs like “No Leash No Chain”. that was a great male rebound song after a breakup. Quite the typical Country song about no pain ( meant to be a lie) spun into a positive song of freedom. My dogs are my best friends, and my booze bottles.

“Burn Up The Highway” was a heavy and fully loaded rowdy song about being a road warrior, which is exactly what this band does. They play a whopping number of shows during the year in the local bars and festivals. “Almost Gone” was a song about a cheating woman in her rare from, however it also reverts to his own self. The lines “my fear shows and my age grows, I think about the life I chose from dusk till dawn, I’m almost gone” were attention grabbers for me. I felt like he was singing the song about ME. That’s what I look for in an album from anybody.

“Guitars, Bars & Hotels” is a great song about the perils of the road, the bed bugs and lice line was GREAT, and so true. You know I’ll tell you what, I never knew how hard the road was until I began following these bands all over the United States. I learned many highway stretches and good places to eat along the festival circuits and byways of America.

The album closes with “Sorrow” and the longest song on the album is “Gimmie Some” at a whopping 6 minutes long. “Sorrow” is a dark and poignant song that can be taken another way toward the end. If every soul could be strong there will be sorrow no more is indeed a noble thought to have.

The Rough Cuts

Ryan Chrys: vocals/guitar
Jack Yoder: guitar/vocals
Michael Jochum: drums
Susan Phelan: bass/vocals
Lauren Michaels: vocals

Ryan Chrys and the Rough Cuts formed in January, 2013, and have since been touring steadily through the North, Mid and South West states. The core of the band is made up of Ryan Chrys on guitar and vocals, Susan Phelan on bass and vocals, and Michael Jochum on drums. In their home state of Colorado they often perform with Laura Quam on violin. Bradely Weaver helped launch the band and performed in the band up until the end of 2017, when he departed for personal reasons. During the last couple years, Ryan Chrys and the Rough Cuts have earned some prestigious local and national accolades including a nomination for 2018 Oultaw Group of the year by the Ameripolitan Music Awards.

Ryan’s mother was a folk and country singer who performed at the Troubador in Hollywood where artists like Elton John, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, and the Eagles all got their start. Eventually her love for horses and mountains lead her to move to Montana to work on a cattle ranch. It was on that Montana cattle ranch where Ryan was born and raised and learned to strum along on the guitar with his mother. Amidst playing in bands in his hometown of Missoula, Ryan eventually graduated from the University of Montana before moving to Denver to pursue a life of music.

Since 2004, Ryan has been performing, touring and recording for various acts as a lead guitarist, doing so lead him across the country performing at venues like Milwaukee’s Summerfest, Red Rocks Amphitheater, the Fillmore Auditorium, and the Roxy Theater in Los Angeles. Along the way he shared the bill with a diverse range of notable acts including Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, George Clinton and Parliment Funkadelic, and The Fray.

Susan Phelan is a master musician and has played with countless acts. She sings, plays the stand up and electric bass and is highly respected in the Colorado scene. She was once a pro wrestler! To learn more, check out this in-depth article about Susan Phelan on Westword Magazine.

Michael Jochum is an accomplished drummer from Los Angeles, California, he has so many credits and accolades its tough to mention them all! He has toured with bands from Jackson Browne to Korn. Check out Michael’s pages on Wikipedia and AllMusic.

Jack Yoder and Lauren Michaels are both accomplished musicians who fronted their own bands for years.