After a tolerable close of 2024, Dec. a lil’ warmer than normal, 2025 has more than made up for the tolerable. 12 inch snow, deepest one that I remember, and a week of below freezing temps has made a dent in our woodpile and Cabin Fever a very real ailment. So, Mother Nature has a way of leveling the scales. Welcome to Oklahoma!
On a sad note- “Bridgewater Band”- “With profound sadness, we regret to announce the passing of one of our founding members, Johnie Whitsett. It was always a privilege and an honor to share the stage with this extraordinary soul. Until we meet again brother, God speed.” “I’ve been writing this article for a lil’ over 5 years. It’s sometimes overwhelming with the sadness of loss- of friends and from the family of musicians. Some close, others I shared the stage and more that I greatly admired for their talents and almost all for their beautiful souls. Their kindness, helpfulness, servant’s hearts and peaceful spirits. Johnie was all of that.
I met Johnie at an Al Grzech B’day Jam several years ago. I heard him on guitar with “Majic 55” and more bands thru the years. What a talent and skill, Guitar, Drums, Sound and Singer, the whole package. He will be missed by so many, as much in the music community as anywhere. He was a blessing.”- TJW
Just a heads up! There’s a new gang in town. The Bards Guild is a homegrown collective of musicians, poets, photographers, designers, and creators. This group of locals have banded together to share songs and more. Some of the musically inclined members will be performing at the Rough Day Brewing Co. in Downtown Poteau. The 2nd Annual benefit is for C.P.R.C- Persuasive Parenting Center.It will be on Sat. March 22nd and music starts at 5pm. Way more info later!
Live Music this Week: It’s time for Jazz at the Museum. This Tuesday 21st at 6:30 pm at the Lowrey Hotel, Downtown Poteau, “The
Al Grzech Trio” will play classics, pop, showtunes and more. Great venue with music in the lobby, Drinks and awesome finger food. Best show in town and it’s free to the public. See ya there.
The “Rhythm Coalition” will be laying it down up the road in Fayetteville on Dickson Street. It’s Sat. 25th from 8:30 til 11:30 pm. They bring Red Dirt, Country Rock, R&B, Jazz and some originals.They are a perfect fit for Dickson. I believe there’s a college around there?
A talented singer/songwriter, James Taylor, will be at the hotspot in Tahlequah. The Kroner and Baer Pub supports Live Music and local entertainers so we support them back. They can fill a mug from several custom beers and their fresh made pizzas will bring ya back for more. James brings red dirt mixed with country tunes and some originals, too. See ya there on Sat. 25th from 7-10 pm. Catch his show.
The Ft. Smith Senior Activity Center will have “The Red Dirt Duo” on Friday 24th. Music starts at 7pm.
Muldrow City Limits brings “Backroads” back for the Friday 24th dance. This band is a favorite here. Big dance floor and it’s warm inside. Music starts at 7 pm. David and Shelia say, y’all all come and have fun. “The MidWestern Playboys light Bonnerville, Ark. up with their high energy Country show. It’ll be at Los Roosters on Sat 25th. They stay up late in Bonnerville, music from 7-11 pm. Take the short trip for this awesome entertainment.
That ain’t all that I got to say but it seems to be a good place to stop. Contact me by text 918-649-5736 or tj.wiles61@outlook.com. Thanks!
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