WHAT? Ya know, I asked to be kept in the loop and Stephen Harris and “Hillbilly Vegas” have been gracious enough to do just that. He sends new songs, new Albums, the next tour of Europe and England and others. I get to hear pre-release recordings and sometimes I’m asked for my honest opinion. And I have apparently earned the trust of the band that I can keep info under my hat until the official press release. BUT this one had me so excited and I just can’t hide it. Official press release was June 2nd of the Ted Nugent Adios Mofo “23” with Special guest “Hillbilly Vegas.”
The last two dates of this 25 or so shows are at Billy Bob’s in Ft. Worth and The Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center in Shawnee, Ok. The band has shown tenacity, perseverance, work ethics, focus and a lotta character to endure the trials of the road. Not an easy feat! “Hillbilly Vegas” will not be a “flash in the pan”! They have been together for over 15 years. Hard work and days of practice, painstaking time spent on arrangements, lyrics, recording, time on stage and even a quick offroad bus ride has fine tuned them for this awesome opportunity. Opening for Ted Nugent.
Congrats to the band. Thanks, Stephen, keep them cards and letters coming. Oh ya, another of the groups singles, Two Gun Town, just made the Top Thirty on the Mainstream Rock Charts. Check it out! “The Black Diamonds” were at the Coffee Cup on First Friday Cruise Night. I got a chance to hear their last set. It’s been a few years since I had heard the guys and again their hard work and practice were obvious. Ben Whiteaker was kind enough to give me and Reggie a shout out for help and encouragement. I know Randy Smith showed Ben a couple of chords, too. The band is gearing up for a string of Summer dates, so watch here for info.
The band had tight arrangements, shared vocal and bass guitar duties and Ben’s songwriting was spot on. They also expressed some gratitude to Tammie and Crew of the CC for several years of listening to them
practice. A good time was had by all. “Billy Hoffman and the Asphalt Cowboys” had a great night at the Spiro Eagles last Friday 2nd. The band oozes excitement and Billy puts on a great show. Always a treat. So watch for info on their next show.
Live Music This Week-”Earl Hearon and the Sound of Country”will be in Red Oak at Dawn’s Diner on Friday 9th. One of the finest Country Dance Bands in our area. Then, Sat 10th, “Make it a Double”, takes the stage. They have a great show and I consider them to be the cutest couple and LeFlore County’s answer to George and Tammy. They will keep ya dancing. Music starts at Dawn’s both nites at 7 pm.
Do not forget that “Earl Hearon and the Sound of Country” will bring the Merle Haggard Tribute to the Reynolds City Center Amphitheater. It is a lawnchair event, Refreshments will be provided by Karen Wages and the Crew of Chamber of Commerce.
Nobody does Merle like Earl! Show starts at 7 pm. Muldrow City Limits will haveThe City Limits Band on Tues the 6th at 7 pm.
This week helping with the music- Ricky Ward on lead and Randy Fennell on Steel. It will be a great nite of music! And “The Richard Rouch Band” on Sat. 10th. Dancing begins at 7 pm. Over in Hackett Ark. on Sat 10th, “Uncle Fudge” will be at Crocky’s Cafe starting at 7 pm.This power trio can R&R. “Shady Oak Tribadours” play at Slane Tavern in Eureka Springs from 7-10Pm. And at Shelia’s What’ya Do Y’all Bar and Grill in Ft. Smith from 8-11 pm on Sat. 10th for the Homecoming. Paul William sings this Friday 9th at the Lot in Wister. Music from 6-9 pm.
That ain’t all I got to say, but it’s a good place to stop. Thanks to all the bands and the fans. Contact me at 918-649-5736 or tj.wiles61@outlook.com.
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