The introduction from Ted Nugent is what any band would love to hear. Ted says, “My opening act is “Hillbilly Vegas”! These cats are soul music, R&B Rockers. This band has got the Groove, The Soul, The Dynamics! They are like the offspring of Chuck Berry and Lil’ Richard- James Brown, Ted Nugent, Montrose, Elvis, AC/DC and ZZ TOP! They are a GREAT Band! Ladies and Gentlemen- Hillbilly Vegas!”
Wow , just WOW! This flash in the pan, overnite success band from Middle America are getting the just rewards of hard work, lots of practice and Thousand of miles on the Highway and in the air to get this opportunity. The band started in 2006. So they are not an “overnite” success. But not to contradict Ted Nugent,“Hillbilly Vegas” has a sound of their own. Sure it has elements of influences from several genres. But the sound they bring to the stage is 100% unique. From the originals with spot on lyrics to Red Dirt flavor. Country with a fever to Country Rock to R&R. “The Hillbilly Vegas” sound, show and style is what got them to this level in the business. Their talents and drive are keeping them at the top. Stephen Harris’ vocal style is easily recognizable- smooth at times, growling if needed, Stacy Thornberg uses talent,technique, equipment, pedals and pure heart to build the fire under the Rockers and crying in the heartbreakers. John Reed/rhythm guitar colors the songs with just the right chords and a solid right handed strumming that ties the songs together with Troy Hollinger/drums and Rob Edwards/bass to form a solid foundation. That allows Stephen to put his full pure emotion into every tune. Follow the tour and keep up with the band on their fb page. Give all their songs on You-tube and all your favorite streaming platforms. Several chart singles, a couple of CD’s and a long resume of gigs from England, Canada and most states in the U.S. If ya can’t tell by now, well, I like this band. Here is where the rubber meets the road. 26 more shows with only 4 days off. They are tough enough to take it!
There is another band that is exciting- “South 49”. Good songwriting, lotta fire, and learning the ropes by just playing everywhere. Opening for “Uncle Lucious” at the Majestic, paying their duesand Practice, practice, Practice. It is paying off, too. Been watching Tylor Smith grow for over a year, he just keeps plugging away and it is paying off. Michael Edgar sings most of the lead vocal.
Tylor and Michael are both good songwriters and wordsmiths. Dave Adair/bass and Nathan Scott/drums keep a solid bottom and the Tempo on the money. There is the right combination of musicians that are working their magic on stage. In their own words- We are Authentic Red Dirt/Country music meets Southern rock! I couldn’t put it any better. “South 49” has a couple of songs that you can hear on You-tube and other streaming platforms. Roots and Land – One Hell of a Ride are both great songs and showcase the strengths of each member. OH Ya! You can hear Tylor and Michael Sat 22nd at Joe’s Cantina from 6-9 pm. South 49 Duo Unplugged.
Friday 21st at the Coffee Cup, it’s Open Mic Nite. I can’t say enough about the influence and encouragement on local Live Music this venue has had for our local musicians. Early on “Hillbilly Vegas” , “Sumpter/Grannie’s Nightmare”, “Backsliders Wine” and “The Black Diamonds” all had time on stage at the Cup. “The Black Diamonds” were a house band formed on Open MIc Nite. Thanks to Tammie and Crew for this opportunity to play and sing. This Open Mic Nite is hosted by Zoe Moreno and Brittany Johnson. This is a place to bring your best songs and listen to other musicians. I bet that you’ll get a chance to hear Clay Grant, too. See ya there.
Next week at the Pocola Senior Center, “Vida Brooks and High Mountain Bluegrass” will play for the lunch bunch from 10 am til Noon. Good music – Great lunches.
“Even Keel”, the band that will play for Poteau High School Alumni dance on Labor day, will be at the 906 Lounge on Garrison Ave on Sat. 22nd. They are a favorite there. Downbeat at 8 pm.
At Dawn’s Diner/Red Oak will feature “59 South” on Friday 1st and R&R on Sat. 22nd with Grannie’s Nightmare. Music starts at 6 pm both nites.
Crocky’s Cafe/Hackett will have Mike Lenzini on Friday 21st and “59 South” on Sat. 22nd. Weather looks favorable for both nites.
“Live Wire/Felisha McKenzie” will bring their music for the folks at the Sallisaw VFW. Great place to dance and great dance music. It all starts at 9 pm.
Muldrow City Limits will feature “Country Junction” On Sat 22nd. Dance starts at 7 pm.
“Shady Oak Tribadours” are busy this week. Thursday 20th at La Heurtas/Ft. Smit from 6-9 pm. Then,July Friday 21st in Longview Texas at the VFW Post 4002 and Cantina from 7-10 pm. Finally, a fundraiser up in Rogers Ark. for the Vietnam Veterans from 3-5 pm.
“Make It a Double” will be at the VFW in McAlester on Sat. 22nd. Great place to Boot-scoot so grab yer pardener and hit the dancefloor. Music from 7-10 pm.
That ain’t all I got to say but it’s a good place to quit. Contact me at 918-649-5736 or tj.wiles61@outlook.com. Pick up a copt of Poteau Daily News Tuesday edition. Read this online in Oklahoma Welcome and The Heavener Ledger.
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