Finally, a positive article! Not fear, uncertainty, run for the hills ‘bout computers taking over. I am only trying to keep up and found that thangs are movin’ way too fast. So, in an effort to keep thangs encouraging and hopeful, let’s look more at the state of Live Music in our area. Mainly, at the awesome folks that are helping teach kids, and adults, learn their instrument and gain the ability to perform and entertain. The true Joy of music. If ya don’t think teaching Music and the art of performing is important to our daily lives, just imagine if all the working musicians over 60 yrs. Old that are performing now would suddenly retire. Way over 50%, I figure. That would severely limit our options. Now I am encouraged that there are many young musicians picking up the torch. Lotta talented musicians and bands in our area of all genres- Rock, Country, Crock and Blues. Two decades in Music history that will explain a lil’ are the 60’s and 2020’s, are easily visible with the number of instrument sales. I was part of the 60’s explosion, bought me a guitar and learned 3 chords, joined a band, learned a minor (House of the Rising Sun) and a picker for life emerged. From 1958 to 1966, guitar sales increased 400%, from 300,000 to 1.5 million. Then in 2020, (Covid) in the need to stay safe from the self-imposed isolation, sales increased and on-line guitar lessons, home recording and fb Live postings and to my surprise, a resurgence of Post Pandemic Live shows. There’s still Hope for Live Music!
So, Poteau is blessed with 3 studios that teach beginners, advanced and groups how to play, perform and entertain. Here they are and a lil’ info ‘bout each.
In their own words- “At Wilson Music Academy, we are more than just a place to take lessons, we’re a launching pad for the next generation of musicians. Our mission is to develop passionate, skilled, and confident artists who are not only capable of playing music, but truly living it.” Dow Wilson, founder of the Wilson Music Academy, is a very accomplished guitar player and Teacher. I was first exposed to his spirit and talent at CR meetings at Cross Community/Poteau. Dow was part of the Praise team and had two talented daughters, Tannah and Chloe, that were involved in the Music for Teens and CR. So the individual lessons evolved into the Academy that taught lessons on several instruments, playing with others in a group and performing a concert if that is the interest. They have a Camp Jam week in the Summer that ends with a show with Music, Acting and Production/Support. So thanks to this combined effort of The Wilson Music Academy, there’s hope for Live Music in years to come. From their webpage, “At Wilson Music Academy, we aren’t just teaching notes, we’re building futures in music.” Thanks for all that you do! For mo’ info , call (855) 489-6271.
Soundscape Music- a full service Music store offers lessons, instruments and gear, sound rental, instruments repair, even change your strings. Troy Edwards is an Educator in Music, performer and man of many talents. Awesome human with a drive to share and teach others the Joy of Music. His positive attitude is contagious. Troy and crew have hosted a series of live events in the 220 Event Center, Downtown Poteau, provided an afternoon of music at the 2025 Poteau Balloon Fest and performs solo and with a band when he has time. Stop by their store at 2708 N. Broadway for more info. Thanks for all you do for Live Music!
Newest on the scene is Pirate Jam Studio at 105 S McKenna. Owner, Terry Cooper brings 5 decades of experience in playing and performing in all the States and abroad, teaching music, songwriting and offers his talent to help at all levels for individuals and teaching how to play with other musicians for fun and in a band. He changed a set of strings for me and I got to steal a couple of hot licks and heard enuf to say that he is awesome on guitar. Matter of fact, Terry will be at Shop Dog Brewing Co. every Friday in Dec. Catch his show. Contact him for mo’ info at 918-814-5712. Come by on Monday for a jam and check out what’s available. It’s from 4-7 pm. Thanks Terry for helping preserve Live Music in Poteau.
Touched base with “Hillbilly Vegas” and they are not sitting on their hands. Lotta exciting things are going on for the band and more will be revealed. Watch here for mo’ info as I git it!
Another Poteau based band, “Chaotic Resemblance” are always on the road or it seems. But, the band will be in Poteau soon! They will carry the message to the Calvary Chapel/Norman Night of Worship on Sat. 15th at 7pm. Then, the band will play at The Love Fostering Hope Banquet at the Reynolds Center on Tuesday 18th. This will be a fundraiser for a faith-based recovery center that helps find a safe place and help change lives for women and families. If ya can’t make the event, there are ways to make donations to the worthy cause. By the way, their new album- Song of the Father- is in the Top Ten on the Solid Rock Charts. Bless you and prayers for safe travels.
Live Music this week: “The Lawman Band” will take the stage at The Ft. Smith Senior Activity Center on Friday 14th. Great Country music from this band and they have a great show. Music starts at 7 pm.
Muldrow City Limits will have another large crowd on Sat 15th. Naw, don’t worry! There’s lots of seats and a big dance floor. One of my favorite bands, “The MidWestern Playboys” will keep the dancefloor. There are kinda hometown boys from theTri-City area. High energy show, More talent that can be contained. It’s in’em and it’s gonna come out. Be there at 7 pm and catch every minute of the music.
Jimmy “Big Bear” Huff will host another Open Mic Show at the Front Porch Theater on Monday 17th. This is a great place to enjoy Country Music and even dance a lil’. Local musicians get together as the houseband and help singers perform their favorite songs. It in N. Alma on Hwy 71. Music starts at 6:15 sharp!
Tuesday 18th, “Old Friends” will be playing at the Pocola Senior Center. Country Music from 10:30 til Noon. Lunch will be chkn fried steak and black-eyed peas. Get a cup of coffee and get there early. 700 Faye Ave. Pocola.
Got too much to tell, too lil’ time and space so stay tuned for mo’! Please encourage your kids and Grandkids to try music. Not all wanna play the drums. The investment and time is as big an influence to their maturity as any sports will be. Thanks for Supporting Local Live Music! Contact me by text- 918-649-5736, fb or tj.wiles61@outlook.com
Get Local News!
