Stay tuned because fall will be loaded with live music
Before I get into the live music, please remember that school is back in session, so watch for young’ens, school buses and school zones. Use caution, especially on the way to work in the morning.
On a sad note, Jerry Brown has passed on. Jerry was a big fan of live music and always had a song or two to offer at most of the open mMic and jams in our area. He was a gentleman, always had a smile on his face and loved to sing. Go rest high on that mountain, Jerry.
I am glad to be able to give a mention of The George Jones Tribute because this time I was there! It is so good to feel good again. I got to sit and visit with friends and had a good seat to enjoy the show. It was well worth the effort. Thanks to my buddy Warren for being my wingman. I think he sang along with almost every George Jones song. The event was well attended by friends and family of the Lloyd clan and most all of from Summerfield — big fans of J.B.’s. More than 100 folks by my count enjoyed the show.
Gabrielle Gore opened the show with a set of songs from her album mixed with a few from Oklahoma singers Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood. She has a distinct voice — strong, dynamic and powerful. The members of her band Silent Thunder are all excellent musicians that included fiddler Wendall Giles from the big town of Shady Point. The band was spot on. Gabrielle hit all her marks and her performance was first class. I hope that we will get a chance to hear her sing again at the Balloonfest this year.
J.B. Lloyd has always been one of my favorite country singers. This tribute to one of his heroes was a good fit for his voice. He sang every twist and turn and yodel that made George Jones so distinct and popular. The selection of songs were some of his most requested hits, and the band’s arrangements of the more difficult ones proved that “country” is more than just “three chords and a feeling.”
This “Tribute” show was directed by the Silent Thunder bandleader Mac Moad, and it was smooth and appropriately entertaining. Of course, there were a couple of rough spots — you know, a missed word or two, and an introduction that was bumpy. J.B. just forged ahead like a professional and commented that even “No-Show Jones” had a problem or two. Like missing a whole show, not just a note or two. J.B. sang his heart out. It was an awesome show, and I hope to get a chance to see the tribute again. Don’t miss it next time.
The upcoming fall weather will allow more live-music events to take place outside, and I will have more information on them in my column each week in Tuesday editions of The Poteau Daily News and my Facebook page, but the best promotion is word of mouth. Talk’em up with friends and family. Spread the news. Make plans on supporting your favorite bands, singers and venues.
Coming soon, “The Showtime Jamboree” by Oklahoma Moon is Aug. 27. The Poteau Rodeo will be Sept. 30-Oct. 1. A charity event that supports young musicians and helps provide many with instruments is “The Shane Bailey Music Society Bash” in the Bakery District on Sept. 16 in Fort Smith, Ark., and the “Oktoberfest” celebration with headliner Wanda Watson and six of the best bands from our area. More will be revealed later. The Stagemasters will be at the Fort Smith Senior Activity Center on Cavanaugh Road later this month.
As for live music this week, Dawn’s Diner in Red Oak has a great menu and three nights a week of music. Starting Thursday, singer Michelle Lee Allen will start the weekend off right. Then Friday, 270 West will play country and classic rock. This newly-formed trio has Scot Francis, Randy Fennell and Larry Taylor providing the entertainment for the supper crowd. On Saturday, Big Marty and the Dirty Dogs will take the stage. Get a great meal and listen to some awesome music at Dawn’s Diner in Red Oak.
The Interstate 40 Dance and Music Hall has linedance lessons every Thursday with The Lawmen providing the music. At the Saturday night dance, Backroads will play classic country for the dancers.
Oklahoma Moon will be at the Clearwater Cafe at the Pine Cove Marina on Lake Tenkiller on Friday. Music will start at 6 p.m. Then they will be in Alma, Ark., at Red’s Place on Saturday, with the music going from 8-11 p.m.
Live Wire featuring Felisha McKenzie will be at Fort Smith’s Ava’s Place on Saturday. She will hit the first note about 8 p.m. Ava’s Place is a good fit for this band. The crowd appreciates good music. They will love Live Wire.
Thanks for the calls and information. If I don’t answer, it is because I have been getting 10 to 20 scam calls a day. So text message me if you can so I’ll know it you. You can reach me with questions about any upcoming live-music events or let me know of any such venues happening at (918) 649-5736 or e-mail me at tj.wiles61@outlook.com.