Five Years of “Live Music”
If I did the math right, this will make 260 articles that I have had the pleasure to write about music, musicians, shows and events in our area. I am grateful for this opportunity. It has kept me connected, a part of, involved after my career of over 50 yrs. came to a close. And a lotta invites, a couple t-shirts, a hug from Scot and a “Shady Oak Tribadours” Hoodie. And with the grace and mercy of a loving God, I might make another year.
“Hillbilly Vegas”! Ya mighta gathered just how much respect that I have for this band. They have persevere, stayed focused and continue to get better and bigger each year. In 2024, they will play 8 dates as special guest on the “Luke Morley Tour” thru England. And then 7 dates as Headliner. Thursday 25th was the first nite of the tour. Using social media, the band is creating a big fanbase in the U.S, Europe and England. So do me a favor and get to know these guys. Like their FB page, Stream their music, you will become a fan of this Oklahoma based Southern Rock powerhouse, “Hillbilly Vegas”.
GuitarMageddon. Never before on stage in one show, the very best guitarist around. George’s Majestic Lounge in Fayetteville will showcase: Jimmy Nace, Gary Hutchison, Earl Cate, TJ Scarlett, Randall George and Johnny Rose. The rhythm section of Oreo Blue featuring bassist, John Seaberg, keyboard wizard, Rick Endel and 2020 Drummers of Arkansas Hall of Fame inductee- Stephen Boudreaux. If you go to Live Music events in our area, one or more of these pickers will be your favorite. It’s just up the road. It’s at George’s Majestic Lounge on Friday 2nd and kicks off at 6 pm.
My pick of “bands to watch” from last year, 2023, has now booked almost solid thru May, 2024. “South 49” will be coming to a place near you, this week at La Huertas/Garrison Ave. on Feb 2nd from 6-9pm. The band has been together about 3 years so far and have really come together with their shows. They have been the opening band for “Jackson Taylor and the Sinners” and more at The Majestic/Ft. Smith. They have a single- Roots and Land and released a new single- One
Hell of a Ride. “South 49” will be in Poteau at La Huertas on Feb 10th. “South 49”- Tylor Smith/lead and vocals, David Adair/bass, Brandon Willis/Drums, and Michael Edgar/lead vocals. Check out their FB page and “like it” and live stream their music. This band has a lotta fire. Check’em out! Contact for booking at FB Messenger or megamiked33@gmail.
One of my favorite places to eat, dance and hear great music is experiencing some hard luck following the week of Deep Freeze. Dawn’s Diner and Red Oak, Ok. has had frozen pipes that have caused problems for the last two weeks. Prayers for the folks and businesses there. Dawn’s has hope for reopening next week. Watch here and fb.
“Rhythm Coalition” has a JJ’s Grill weekend. On Friday 2nd in Ft. Smith, the music kicks off at 7pm. Then up the road on Sat 3rd at JJ’s Grill/Springdale at 7pm. Both places are huge supporters of Live Music and the grub is awesome. Catch “Rhythm Coalition” this weekend.
“Live Wire ft. Felisha McKenzie” are booked at La Huertas/Poteau on Sat. 3rd. Another chance to enjoy Live Music close to home. Thanks, Jose for providing such great entertainment for your supper crowd. You will dig this band. They start at 7pm.
“Shady Oak Tribadours” only have Sat 3rd booked, so far this week! In our area, the title of Hardest Working Band Around became available when “Grannie’s Nightmare” officially retired, “The Tribadours” have filled the position. Still a few dates open in the coming months. So Contact Larry Taylor at 918-647-6529 for bookings. Music from 8-11pm.
Just a mention of the Friends of the Ranch Celebration fundraiser, Feb 15th at the Reynolds Center. Some tickets and tables are still available. Since I have been in recovery for 14 yrs, I do have personal experience in addiction and recovery. I have also watched Kane Riggs and crew at The Ranch offer treatment and recovery that has brought healing, turned lives around and put families back together. Not every man or woman will take hold of the program the first time, but they know where help can be found. Matt Spradley will be the keynote speaker and has a very encouraging personal story to share. Both the Howe 6:33 and the Spiro 6:33 outreach will be helped by the fundraiser. If ya can’t make it, donations will still be appreciated. Contact the Office at 918-658-2573 or Kane Riggs at 479-883-0883. Help more folks in the problem, find hope and faith again.
Well, that ain’t all that I got to say but it’s a good place to stop.
Thanks for this opportunity to serve music and musicians. For info, text me at 918-649-5736 or tj.wiles61@outlook.com. This article is available on “Oklahoma Welcome” and “Heavener Online” and my fb page.
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