SEPTEMBER 30, 2010
I had an e-mail from Nancy Nunn this evening. She reports that Rusty had a much better day today. Pneumonia seems to be under control, he has less coughing and better breathing. His voice is normal with no slurred speech. He was up and walked 5 times today. She doesn't know when he will be able to go to rehab but it certainly sounds encouraging. Keep it up, Rusty!!!
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Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
SEPTEMBER 28, 2010
BK LOUNGE
Let me begin with a report on our sick friends.
Rusty Nunn now has a touch of Pneumonia so he did not get to transfer to the Rehab Hospital today as planned. The Doctors started him on antibiotics to treat the Pneumonia. He was able to exercise and sit up for a while but they want to keep him at Olathe Med Center til he gets over that. Nancy says the surgeon is still very happy with the way he came through the surgery.
Another one of our good friends, Roger Hawkins is very ill tonight. Jean is able to get him up to move around for some exercise but he is very weak.
Please everyone; keep Rusty and Roger in your thoughts and prayers. Nancy and Jean need some help from above, too. I know this is a difficult time for both of them. I will keep you posted on this site as often as I get new information.
Larry Dean decided to take a few days off to go fishing. Arnie Johnson very ably filled in for him at the BK Lounge last night. As usual, he put on a very lively show and is always well received here. It is at this point that I really miss Roger and Jean helping me with titles of the songs performed by all the members of the band. Without that help I will just have to tell you that Gordon, Marvin, John and Mary & Garry performed wonderfully behind Arnie. Dave Purcell was in fine form and received big applause after each number he sang. Annie Little sang three or four numbers to the great pleasure of the near capacity audience. Garry had a whole pocket full of new jokes and kept us laughing all through the show.
It is always a huge pleasure to have Arnie come by to perform for us. We look forward to having Larry Dean back with us next week and we also are looking eagerly forward to having Arnie join us again at the Grinter Jamboree on Thursday,October
21, 2010. That will also be our annual Halloween show with a costume contest and the ladies will serve a Chili Supper.
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BK LOUNGE
Let me begin with a report on our sick friends.
Rusty Nunn now has a touch of Pneumonia so he did not get to transfer to the Rehab Hospital today as planned. The Doctors started him on antibiotics to treat the Pneumonia. He was able to exercise and sit up for a while but they want to keep him at Olathe Med Center til he gets over that. Nancy says the surgeon is still very happy with the way he came through the surgery.
Another one of our good friends, Roger Hawkins is very ill tonight. Jean is able to get him up to move around for some exercise but he is very weak.
Please everyone; keep Rusty and Roger in your thoughts and prayers. Nancy and Jean need some help from above, too. I know this is a difficult time for both of them. I will keep you posted on this site as often as I get new information.
Larry Dean decided to take a few days off to go fishing. Arnie Johnson very ably filled in for him at the BK Lounge last night. As usual, he put on a very lively show and is always well received here. It is at this point that I really miss Roger and Jean helping me with titles of the songs performed by all the members of the band. Without that help I will just have to tell you that Gordon, Marvin, John and Mary & Garry performed wonderfully behind Arnie. Dave Purcell was in fine form and received big applause after each number he sang. Annie Little sang three or four numbers to the great pleasure of the near capacity audience. Garry had a whole pocket full of new jokes and kept us laughing all through the show.
It is always a huge pleasure to have Arnie come by to perform for us. We look forward to having Larry Dean back with us next week and we also are looking eagerly forward to having Arnie join us again at the Grinter Jamboree on Thursday,October
21, 2010. That will also be our annual Halloween show with a costume contest and the ladies will serve a Chili Supper.
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Saturday, September 25, 2010
SEPTEMBER 24, 2010
GRINTER APPLEFEST
First of all, we have great news that "Rusty" Nunn came through his triple by-pass surgery very well. His surgeon reported the operation was successful and Rusty should be feeling much better and back in his favorite chair right next to the stage soon! We all are looking forward to seeing you soon, Rusty!!
The band put on a terrific show at the Grinter Applefest. It was a little warm when we started about 6:15. Before we finished at about 8:15 most of those present were digging out a jacket because it was turning cool.
The audience was enthusiastic and soon several were up and dancing for nearly every song.
We had several parents who brought their children to the show. It was so much fun watching those kids from about 2 to 5 or 6 years old dancing and laughing. They all seemed to have a great time and there was some pretty good dancers. I really admire those parents who take the time to bring the little ones out and dance with them. It was hard to tell who had the most fun, the kids or Mom and Dad.
The music was good and there was a good variety, too.
The Stranger Creek band will be back at the Grinter Barn Jamboree on Thursday, October 21 for the Annual Hallooween show and at the BK Lounge every Tuesday. We hope to see you all there.
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GRINTER APPLEFEST
First of all, we have great news that "Rusty" Nunn came through his triple by-pass surgery very well. His surgeon reported the operation was successful and Rusty should be feeling much better and back in his favorite chair right next to the stage soon! We all are looking forward to seeing you soon, Rusty!!
The band put on a terrific show at the Grinter Applefest. It was a little warm when we started about 6:15. Before we finished at about 8:15 most of those present were digging out a jacket because it was turning cool.
The audience was enthusiastic and soon several were up and dancing for nearly every song.
We had several parents who brought their children to the show. It was so much fun watching those kids from about 2 to 5 or 6 years old dancing and laughing. They all seemed to have a great time and there was some pretty good dancers. I really admire those parents who take the time to bring the little ones out and dance with them. It was hard to tell who had the most fun, the kids or Mom and Dad.
The music was good and there was a good variety, too.
The Stranger Creek band will be back at the Grinter Barn Jamboree on Thursday, October 21 for the Annual Hallooween show and at the BK Lounge every Tuesday. We hope to see you all there.
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010
SEPTEMBER 21, 2010
BK LOUNGE
When we began setting the equipment up for the show it looked like we might have a small crowd tonight. But, by the time the band stepped to begin, the Lounge was full to capacity, standing room only. It is very satisfying to know that so many of our fans enjoy the music enough to fill the Lounge to capacity nearly every Tuesday evening.
One of our most loyal fans and good friends needs our thoughts and prayers at this time. "Rusty" Nunn will undergo triple by-pass surgery on Friday. We certainly wish the best for him.
The text and photo below are reprinted with the generous permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins of MO-KAN OPRY. Be sure to check their site for information on all the country music shows around this area!
We barely had time to get settled in our customary seats when Larry Dean kicked the evening off with the old Bob Wills/Asleep At The Wheel standard "Miles And Miles Of Texas" at the request of some visitors from the Lone Star state. Next up was Merle Haggard's "I Had A Beautiful Time" and somewhat later another Hag tune, "Mama Tried" and Josh Turner's "Just To Be Your Man." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist showed his vocal abilities off on Hank Thompson's "Red Necks, White Sox And Blue Ribbon Beer" then joined the rest of the band, including drummer John Malone in a great instrumental of "Freight Train." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, the group's awesome fiddle player who also plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday got the dancers moving as he launched into a Big Band number, "Jersey Bounce." Marvin followed up with an old Bob Wills tune "Milk Cow Blues," "The Waltz You Saved For Me" and the jaunty "Eighth Of January." It's always such a pleasure to hear Mary Bichelmeyer sing those country standards, her soft, mellow voice seems to caress each lyric. Tonight it was Patsy Cline's "I'm Blue Again," Kathy Mattea's "Walk The Way The Wind Blows" and Vince Gill's "Don't Come Crying To Me." Husband Garry Bichelmeyer was in fine voice himself tonight, singing "Someone To Turn To," Johnny Russell's "Catfish John," one of his own cleverly written tunes, which has become known fondly as simply "The Dead Horse Song," Guy Clark's "Randall Knife" and crowd favorite, "Kansas City." David Purcell also did a marvelous job tonight singing Alan Jackson's "Playing Possum," "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain," George Jones' "Tell Me My Lying Eyes Are Wrong" and Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night."
It was great seeing Annie Little again and even better listening to her sing Suzy Boggess' "Somewhere Between" and "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind," a Garry Bichelmeyer tune. Ron Fine was also in the audience tonight and we enjoyed, as usual, his beautiful vocals, tonight Hank Snow's "Most Of All I Love You Cause You're You," Ricky Skaggs' "I Wouldn't Change You If I Could" and "The Kentucky Waltz." A special couple celebrated their September birthdays together at intermission, Henry Busler who will be 94 on September 27th and Bertha Kanning who was 90 years old on September 14th! Best wishes go out to this great couple and may they enjoy many, many more! Larry Dean closed tonight's festivities with Terry Smith's "Far Side Banks Of Jordan."
(Below) A "special" couple - Henry Busler & Bertha Kanning.
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BK LOUNGE
When we began setting the equipment up for the show it looked like we might have a small crowd tonight. But, by the time the band stepped to begin, the Lounge was full to capacity, standing room only. It is very satisfying to know that so many of our fans enjoy the music enough to fill the Lounge to capacity nearly every Tuesday evening.
One of our most loyal fans and good friends needs our thoughts and prayers at this time. "Rusty" Nunn will undergo triple by-pass surgery on Friday. We certainly wish the best for him.
The text and photo below are reprinted with the generous permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins of MO-KAN OPRY. Be sure to check their site for information on all the country music shows around this area!
We barely had time to get settled in our customary seats when Larry Dean kicked the evening off with the old Bob Wills/Asleep At The Wheel standard "Miles And Miles Of Texas" at the request of some visitors from the Lone Star state. Next up was Merle Haggard's "I Had A Beautiful Time" and somewhat later another Hag tune, "Mama Tried" and Josh Turner's "Just To Be Your Man." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist showed his vocal abilities off on Hank Thompson's "Red Necks, White Sox And Blue Ribbon Beer" then joined the rest of the band, including drummer John Malone in a great instrumental of "Freight Train." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, the group's awesome fiddle player who also plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday got the dancers moving as he launched into a Big Band number, "Jersey Bounce." Marvin followed up with an old Bob Wills tune "Milk Cow Blues," "The Waltz You Saved For Me" and the jaunty "Eighth Of January." It's always such a pleasure to hear Mary Bichelmeyer sing those country standards, her soft, mellow voice seems to caress each lyric. Tonight it was Patsy Cline's "I'm Blue Again," Kathy Mattea's "Walk The Way The Wind Blows" and Vince Gill's "Don't Come Crying To Me." Husband Garry Bichelmeyer was in fine voice himself tonight, singing "Someone To Turn To," Johnny Russell's "Catfish John," one of his own cleverly written tunes, which has become known fondly as simply "The Dead Horse Song," Guy Clark's "Randall Knife" and crowd favorite, "Kansas City." David Purcell also did a marvelous job tonight singing Alan Jackson's "Playing Possum," "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain," George Jones' "Tell Me My Lying Eyes Are Wrong" and Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night."
It was great seeing Annie Little again and even better listening to her sing Suzy Boggess' "Somewhere Between" and "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind," a Garry Bichelmeyer tune. Ron Fine was also in the audience tonight and we enjoyed, as usual, his beautiful vocals, tonight Hank Snow's "Most Of All I Love You Cause You're You," Ricky Skaggs' "I Wouldn't Change You If I Could" and "The Kentucky Waltz." A special couple celebrated their September birthdays together at intermission, Henry Busler who will be 94 on September 27th and Bertha Kanning who was 90 years old on September 14th! Best wishes go out to this great couple and may they enjoy many, many more! Larry Dean closed tonight's festivities with Terry Smith's "Far Side Banks Of Jordan."
(Below) A "special" couple - Henry Busler & Bertha Kanning.
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Wednesday, September 15, 2010
SEPTEMBER 14, 2010
BK LOUNGE
The weather was fabulous as a good size group gathered at the BK Lounge. There was much visiting among themselves as the band prepared for the evening of music.
Larry Dean kicked the show off with "Miles and Miles of Texas" followed by "Designated Drinker".
Gordon Riley stepped up with the ever popular "Wildwood Flower" and "Break My Mind".
Next was Marvin Bredemeier with "Red Sails in the Sunset" and "Silver Bells".
The beautiful voice of Mary Bichelmeyer was next with "Blue Kentucky Girl" and "Walking After Midnight".
Garry Bichelmeyer singing "Would You Catch a falling Star" and his self written " Summers Almost Over".
Art Covey closed out the first half with "Royal Telephone" and Hobo's Meditation".
During the intermission we were all served a piece of a delicious Carrot cake in celebration of our friend, Roger Hawkins's birthday. Happy Birthday, Roger!!
Larry Dean opened the second half with Roger's request of "Mom & Dad Waltz", "Back to Louisiana", "Together Again", Billy Gray" and "I miss my Mary tonight".
Then Gordon Riley stepped up with " Back Home in Indiana".
Marvin Bredemeier was next with "Ragtime Annie" and "Faded Love". Then we were honored for the second week in a row to hear his Rousing ever popular version of "The Orange Blossom Special"!
Mary Bichelmeyer came back then with "Satin Sheets" and "Bill Bailey"
Garry Bichelmeyer and Larry Dean joined forces for "In the Jailhouse Now"
Gordon Riley and John Malone gave us a very rare treat as they joined in for "Wipe Out"!
Larry Dean closed the show with "Will the Circle be Unbroken".
It was a great show and we look forward to having everyone join us on Thursday, September 16 at the Grinter Jamboree. We will have a dinner of Spaghetti Beef Casserole followed with 2 1/2 hours of Music.
(Below) top - John Malone, Larry Dean and Marvin Bredemeier. bottom -Jean & Roger Hawkins and their friend Jim Bledsoe.
Much of the above information and the photos were acquired from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the generous permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins
*************************************************************************************
BK LOUNGE
The weather was fabulous as a good size group gathered at the BK Lounge. There was much visiting among themselves as the band prepared for the evening of music.
Larry Dean kicked the show off with "Miles and Miles of Texas" followed by "Designated Drinker".
Gordon Riley stepped up with the ever popular "Wildwood Flower" and "Break My Mind".
Next was Marvin Bredemeier with "Red Sails in the Sunset" and "Silver Bells".
The beautiful voice of Mary Bichelmeyer was next with "Blue Kentucky Girl" and "Walking After Midnight".
Garry Bichelmeyer singing "Would You Catch a falling Star" and his self written " Summers Almost Over".
Art Covey closed out the first half with "Royal Telephone" and Hobo's Meditation".
During the intermission we were all served a piece of a delicious Carrot cake in celebration of our friend, Roger Hawkins's birthday. Happy Birthday, Roger!!
Larry Dean opened the second half with Roger's request of "Mom & Dad Waltz", "Back to Louisiana", "Together Again", Billy Gray" and "I miss my Mary tonight".
Then Gordon Riley stepped up with " Back Home in Indiana".
Marvin Bredemeier was next with "Ragtime Annie" and "Faded Love". Then we were honored for the second week in a row to hear his Rousing ever popular version of "The Orange Blossom Special"!
Mary Bichelmeyer came back then with "Satin Sheets" and "Bill Bailey"
Garry Bichelmeyer and Larry Dean joined forces for "In the Jailhouse Now"
Gordon Riley and John Malone gave us a very rare treat as they joined in for "Wipe Out"!
Larry Dean closed the show with "Will the Circle be Unbroken".
It was a great show and we look forward to having everyone join us on Thursday, September 16 at the Grinter Jamboree. We will have a dinner of Spaghetti Beef Casserole followed with 2 1/2 hours of Music.
(Below) top - John Malone, Larry Dean and Marvin Bredemeier. bottom -Jean & Roger Hawkins and their friend Jim Bledsoe.
Much of the above information and the photos were acquired from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the generous permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins
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Wednesday, September 8, 2010
SEPTEMBER 07, 2010
B.K. LOUNGE
The evening was much cooler tonight as we prepared for our weekly show at the BK Lounge. Some of our fans had already gone to Hastings Nebraska to meet the band when they arrived to perform at the big music festival there this weekend. We had some people that were on the sick list so our crowd was not standing room only as it has been many times recently, but it turned out to be a nice group. What an exciting thrill it was to see Byron Jones walk-in. We certainly enjoyed his fine voice and appreciate him performing for us. He is one of the mainstays in country music in our area.
The rest of this blog below has been reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY with the generosity and permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins.
We had just found our normal seating tonight when Larry Dean welcomed everyone and began the festivities with Travis Tritt's "I'm A Member Of A Country Club." Bob Wills' "Take Me Back To Tulsa" was next with George Strait's "The Fireman," "From A Jack To A King" and Merle Haggard's "Mama Tried" close behind. Later, Larry was to return with Hal Ketchum's "I'm Missing My Mary Tonight," "Shake, Rattle & Roll" for a change of pace and another Travis Tritt number, "Where Corn Don't Grow." It's always great to hear lead guitarist Gordon Riley hit those licks and tonight he was featured singing and picking Elvis' "Big Boss Man" and Merle Travis' "Nine Pound Hammer" with the rest of the band including drummer John Malone.
Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft, mellow voice to sing Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," "Unchained Melody," Highway 101's "Walkin' Talkin' Cryin', Barely Beaten Broken Heart" and Patsy Cline's "Walkin' After Midnight" while husband Garry Bichelmeyer reminded everyone of the tragic events of 9/11 with Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA." Garry displayed his songwriting talents, singing his newest creation, "One Room Schoolhouse," and "Northern Star," another self-penned tune. Picking up his banjo, Garry and the band sounded great playing "Foggy Mountain Breakdown." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle each Saturday at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, got a big hand as he played and Larry Dean sang the vocals on a old tune recorded by Eddy Arnold and others, "Slowpoke." Next it was our personal favorite "Ragtime Annie" followed by the beautiful "Waltz You Saved For Me" and everyone's favorite: "OBS" -- "The Orange Blossom Special."
Jerome Oberle and his button accordian got the dancers and polka-lovers fired up this evening as he played the "Pennslyvania Polka," "Blue Skirt Waltz" and of course the "Beer Barrell Polka." Tonight's special guest totally surprised everyone, arriving half-way through the first half. Byron Jones who recently reopened his Northtown Opry at 1419 Swift Ave. in North Kansas City, slipped in almost unnoticed, but once pressed into service did his usual marvelous job singing Porter Wagoner's "Country Music Has Gone To Town," Buck Owens' "Love's Gonna Live Here Again" and Flatt and Skruggs' "My Blue Ridge Mountain Home." Byron mentioned that the Northtown Opry would be hosting two special shows, 3 & 7:30 PM on September 25th featuring Bill "Goofer" Atterberry, a comedian and all-round entertainer, who is a fixture himself at country variety shows around the Lake Of The Ozarks. Byron was to return later with Tompall Glazer's "Put Another Log On The Fire," Ernest Tubb's "Waltz Across Texas" and closed tonight's festivities with the great gospel number "I Saw The Light." (
Below) Mr. Northtown Opry, Byron Jones entertains tonight's crowd
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B.K. LOUNGE
The evening was much cooler tonight as we prepared for our weekly show at the BK Lounge. Some of our fans had already gone to Hastings Nebraska to meet the band when they arrived to perform at the big music festival there this weekend. We had some people that were on the sick list so our crowd was not standing room only as it has been many times recently, but it turned out to be a nice group. What an exciting thrill it was to see Byron Jones walk-in. We certainly enjoyed his fine voice and appreciate him performing for us. He is one of the mainstays in country music in our area.
The rest of this blog below has been reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY with the generosity and permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins.
We had just found our normal seating tonight when Larry Dean welcomed everyone and began the festivities with Travis Tritt's "I'm A Member Of A Country Club." Bob Wills' "Take Me Back To Tulsa" was next with George Strait's "The Fireman," "From A Jack To A King" and Merle Haggard's "Mama Tried" close behind. Later, Larry was to return with Hal Ketchum's "I'm Missing My Mary Tonight," "Shake, Rattle & Roll" for a change of pace and another Travis Tritt number, "Where Corn Don't Grow." It's always great to hear lead guitarist Gordon Riley hit those licks and tonight he was featured singing and picking Elvis' "Big Boss Man" and Merle Travis' "Nine Pound Hammer" with the rest of the band including drummer John Malone.
Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft, mellow voice to sing Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," "Unchained Melody," Highway 101's "Walkin' Talkin' Cryin', Barely Beaten Broken Heart" and Patsy Cline's "Walkin' After Midnight" while husband Garry Bichelmeyer reminded everyone of the tragic events of 9/11 with Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA." Garry displayed his songwriting talents, singing his newest creation, "One Room Schoolhouse," and "Northern Star," another self-penned tune. Picking up his banjo, Garry and the band sounded great playing "Foggy Mountain Breakdown." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle each Saturday at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, got a big hand as he played and Larry Dean sang the vocals on a old tune recorded by Eddy Arnold and others, "Slowpoke." Next it was our personal favorite "Ragtime Annie" followed by the beautiful "Waltz You Saved For Me" and everyone's favorite: "OBS" -- "The Orange Blossom Special."
Jerome Oberle and his button accordian got the dancers and polka-lovers fired up this evening as he played the "Pennslyvania Polka," "Blue Skirt Waltz" and of course the "Beer Barrell Polka." Tonight's special guest totally surprised everyone, arriving half-way through the first half. Byron Jones who recently reopened his Northtown Opry at 1419 Swift Ave. in North Kansas City, slipped in almost unnoticed, but once pressed into service did his usual marvelous job singing Porter Wagoner's "Country Music Has Gone To Town," Buck Owens' "Love's Gonna Live Here Again" and Flatt and Skruggs' "My Blue Ridge Mountain Home." Byron mentioned that the Northtown Opry would be hosting two special shows, 3 & 7:30 PM on September 25th featuring Bill "Goofer" Atterberry, a comedian and all-round entertainer, who is a fixture himself at country variety shows around the Lake Of The Ozarks. Byron was to return later with Tompall Glazer's "Put Another Log On The Fire," Ernest Tubb's "Waltz Across Texas" and closed tonight's festivities with the great gospel number "I Saw The Light." (
Below) Mr. Northtown Opry, Byron Jones entertains tonight's crowd
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Wednesday, September 1, 2010
AUGUST 31, 2010
BK LOUNGE
It was very hot as we prepared for tonight's show. The gathering of people started out slow but as show time approached, the BK Lounge was filled to capacity before we realized it.
(Tuesday) As I write this, I have received word that our friend, Glen Beatty underwent neck surgery at KU Medical Center today; Jean says the surgery was successful. We all wish Glen a speedy recovery and hope to see him back at the BK Lounge soon!
As the magic hour approached, Larry Dean stepped front & center to sing Alan Jackson's "Don't Rock The Juke Box" and Merle Haggard's "Working Man Blues." Showing his great versatility, Larry returned later with Travis Tritt's "Living On Borrowed Time," Charlie Louvin's "She Even Woke Me Up To Say Goodbye" and Johnny Cash's "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town."
What a pleasant surprise it was to see our friend Larry Smith, whose singing talents are almost legendary throughout this area. Larry, who has appeared at practically every opry & country show throughout the region, got a huge hand as he greeted everyone with a Hank Locklin tune, "My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You," followed by Merle's "Okie From Muskogee," Eddie Arnold's "Make The World Go Away" and Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues." Returning shortly after intermission, Larry did a bang-up job with Chuck Berry's "Memphis, Tennessee" & "Johnny B. Goode," Ray Price's "Heart Aches By The Number" along with Merle's "Today I Started Loving You Again." The group's terrific lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone got the dancers moving with the self-penned "Gordon's Boogie #2," "Buckaroo" while Gordon demonstrated his vocal abilities as well with Hank Thompson's "Six Pack To Go" and Elvis' "Big Boss Man." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier got quite an ovation tonight as he put bow to fiddle and played Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues," "Down Yonder," "The Waltz You Saved For Me," "Rubber Dolly" and George Strait's "Right Or Wrong." Marvin, of course is part of the great band which plays every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee. Mary Bichelmeyer's soft, mellow voice certainly did justice to Loretta Lynn's "Blue Kentucky Girl," Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" and Warner Mack's "Once A Day." Garry Bichelmeyer gave everyone a taste of his many talents tonight singing John Denver's "It's Good To Be Back Home Again," "Kansas City," his newly self-written "One Room School House," then picking up the banjo led the band playing "Foggy Mountain Breakdown." It's always great to see and hear crowd favorite David Purcell and tonight he greeted everyone with Alan Jackson's "Just Playing Possum," Willie Nelson sound-alikes "On The Road Again" & "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and a bit later, George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away."
Tonight's festivities came to a close with the band playing "I Saw The Light" and Larry Dean singing an old bluegrass gospel number recorded by Tom T. Hall and others, "Rank Stranger."
(Below) Tonight's special guest, Larry Smith
The photo and much of the text above was reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins. Thanks again.
*************************************************************************************
BK LOUNGE
It was very hot as we prepared for tonight's show. The gathering of people started out slow but as show time approached, the BK Lounge was filled to capacity before we realized it.
(Tuesday) As I write this, I have received word that our friend, Glen Beatty underwent neck surgery at KU Medical Center today; Jean says the surgery was successful. We all wish Glen a speedy recovery and hope to see him back at the BK Lounge soon!
As the magic hour approached, Larry Dean stepped front & center to sing Alan Jackson's "Don't Rock The Juke Box" and Merle Haggard's "Working Man Blues." Showing his great versatility, Larry returned later with Travis Tritt's "Living On Borrowed Time," Charlie Louvin's "She Even Woke Me Up To Say Goodbye" and Johnny Cash's "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town."
What a pleasant surprise it was to see our friend Larry Smith, whose singing talents are almost legendary throughout this area. Larry, who has appeared at practically every opry & country show throughout the region, got a huge hand as he greeted everyone with a Hank Locklin tune, "My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You," followed by Merle's "Okie From Muskogee," Eddie Arnold's "Make The World Go Away" and Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues." Returning shortly after intermission, Larry did a bang-up job with Chuck Berry's "Memphis, Tennessee" & "Johnny B. Goode," Ray Price's "Heart Aches By The Number" along with Merle's "Today I Started Loving You Again." The group's terrific lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone got the dancers moving with the self-penned "Gordon's Boogie #2," "Buckaroo" while Gordon demonstrated his vocal abilities as well with Hank Thompson's "Six Pack To Go" and Elvis' "Big Boss Man." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier got quite an ovation tonight as he put bow to fiddle and played Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues," "Down Yonder," "The Waltz You Saved For Me," "Rubber Dolly" and George Strait's "Right Or Wrong." Marvin, of course is part of the great band which plays every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee. Mary Bichelmeyer's soft, mellow voice certainly did justice to Loretta Lynn's "Blue Kentucky Girl," Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" and Warner Mack's "Once A Day." Garry Bichelmeyer gave everyone a taste of his many talents tonight singing John Denver's "It's Good To Be Back Home Again," "Kansas City," his newly self-written "One Room School House," then picking up the banjo led the band playing "Foggy Mountain Breakdown." It's always great to see and hear crowd favorite David Purcell and tonight he greeted everyone with Alan Jackson's "Just Playing Possum," Willie Nelson sound-alikes "On The Road Again" & "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and a bit later, George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away."
Tonight's festivities came to a close with the band playing "I Saw The Light" and Larry Dean singing an old bluegrass gospel number recorded by Tom T. Hall and others, "Rank Stranger."
(Below) Tonight's special guest, Larry Smith
The photo and much of the text above was reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins. Thanks again.
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Wednesday, August 25, 2010
AUGUST 24, 2010
BK LOUNGE
Last night was such a beautiful evening to get out and around. The BK Lounge was about to burst at the seams with such a large, great crowd. We were honored to have such a line-up of guests with us. Annie Dunavin of Annie's Jubilee in Tonganoxie was in along with harmonica player Bill Clark. Also, Art Covey and Ron Fine entertained us with their wonderful voices.
Tonight's festivities began with Larry Dean welcoming the big crowd with a Ricky Skaggs classic "Hiway 40 Blues," followed by Cash's "Big River," Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin Boogie" and Elvis' "All Shook Up" and Chuck Berry's "C'est La Vie" a bit later. Lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band, including John Malone on the drums got the dancers loosened up with "Honky Tonk" and Gordon returned to sing Dave Dudley's "Truck Drivin' Man" and Elvis' "Big Boss Man." Our friend Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday was up next and he chose to start with one of the most beautiful fiddle tunes we know of, "Shogun Farewell," followed by our favorite fiddle tune, "Ragtime Annie." Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player used her soft, mellow voice to do a marvelous job with Hank Sr.'s "Your Cheating Heart" and Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" while Dave Purcell did an awesome job with George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away" and a Willie Nelson sound alike, "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away." Garry Bichelmeyer showcased his writing talents as well as his vocal abilities as he sang three self-penned numbers: "Mike's Guitar" (a song about the late Mike O'Roark, who was such an exciting performer), "The One Room School House" (a brand new song which everyone thought will turn out to be one of his best) and by request...."Tonganoxie." Somewhat later, he was joined by wife Mary as they sang a duet of Lacy J. Dalton's "Black Coffee." We always look forward to seeing and hearing Art Covey play his mandolin and sing and tonight he picked a couple of favorites, the Pat Boone classic "Love Letters In The Sand" and Darrell McCall's "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone." It was a real kick to see Bill Clark and wife Louise and we really enjoyed Bill's harmonica work on an old-fashioned hoedown - "Bile That Cabbage Down" and then the beautiful "Faded Love" accompanied by Marvin's fiddle and the rest of the band as well.
A huge ovation greeted Annie Dunavin as she took mike in hand to sing the Jeanne Pruett classic "Satin Sheets" and Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight" to close the first half of tonight's session and returned later to do a marvelous job singing "Bonaparte's Retreat" and Lorrie Morgan's "Don't Touch Me (If You Don't Love Me)." Here's hoping she can find the time to return again, real soon! Also on hand tonight was Ron Fine who used his great vocal abilities on Bobby Helms' "Fraulein" and the old Hank Snow standard "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I." Annie Little sounded super as well tonight singing Keith Whitley's "Somewhere Between" and a Garry Bichelmeyer tune "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind." Larry Dean closed out the evening's entertainment with George Morgan's "I've Got A Mansion (Just Over The Hilltop)."
(Below) Annie Dunavin entertains the crowd at the BK
The above photo and most of the text from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins
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BK LOUNGE
Last night was such a beautiful evening to get out and around. The BK Lounge was about to burst at the seams with such a large, great crowd. We were honored to have such a line-up of guests with us. Annie Dunavin of Annie's Jubilee in Tonganoxie was in along with harmonica player Bill Clark. Also, Art Covey and Ron Fine entertained us with their wonderful voices.
Tonight's festivities began with Larry Dean welcoming the big crowd with a Ricky Skaggs classic "Hiway 40 Blues," followed by Cash's "Big River," Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin Boogie" and Elvis' "All Shook Up" and Chuck Berry's "C'est La Vie" a bit later. Lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band, including John Malone on the drums got the dancers loosened up with "Honky Tonk" and Gordon returned to sing Dave Dudley's "Truck Drivin' Man" and Elvis' "Big Boss Man." Our friend Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday was up next and he chose to start with one of the most beautiful fiddle tunes we know of, "Shogun Farewell," followed by our favorite fiddle tune, "Ragtime Annie." Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player used her soft, mellow voice to do a marvelous job with Hank Sr.'s "Your Cheating Heart" and Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" while Dave Purcell did an awesome job with George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away" and a Willie Nelson sound alike, "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away." Garry Bichelmeyer showcased his writing talents as well as his vocal abilities as he sang three self-penned numbers: "Mike's Guitar" (a song about the late Mike O'Roark, who was such an exciting performer), "The One Room School House" (a brand new song which everyone thought will turn out to be one of his best) and by request...."Tonganoxie." Somewhat later, he was joined by wife Mary as they sang a duet of Lacy J. Dalton's "Black Coffee." We always look forward to seeing and hearing Art Covey play his mandolin and sing and tonight he picked a couple of favorites, the Pat Boone classic "Love Letters In The Sand" and Darrell McCall's "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone." It was a real kick to see Bill Clark and wife Louise and we really enjoyed Bill's harmonica work on an old-fashioned hoedown - "Bile That Cabbage Down" and then the beautiful "Faded Love" accompanied by Marvin's fiddle and the rest of the band as well.
A huge ovation greeted Annie Dunavin as she took mike in hand to sing the Jeanne Pruett classic "Satin Sheets" and Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight" to close the first half of tonight's session and returned later to do a marvelous job singing "Bonaparte's Retreat" and Lorrie Morgan's "Don't Touch Me (If You Don't Love Me)." Here's hoping she can find the time to return again, real soon! Also on hand tonight was Ron Fine who used his great vocal abilities on Bobby Helms' "Fraulein" and the old Hank Snow standard "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I." Annie Little sounded super as well tonight singing Keith Whitley's "Somewhere Between" and a Garry Bichelmeyer tune "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind." Larry Dean closed out the evening's entertainment with George Morgan's "I've Got A Mansion (Just Over The Hilltop)."
(Below) Annie Dunavin entertains the crowd at the BK
The above photo and most of the text from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins
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Friday, August 20, 2010
AUGUST 19, 2010
GRINTER BARN JAMBOREE
We all had high expectations when we went to the Grinter Barn last night for the jamboree. I think I can honestly say that what we experienced far exceeded our expectations. Our great special guests were outstanding. Fred Uzell with his Dobro and Frankie Kay and his Steel Guitar along with of course, the Stranger Creek Band put on an outstanding show. Fred and Frankie are both amazing talents.
The text and photos below are reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins. Many thanks to them!!
The Grinter Barn was packed tonight as traditional country music lovers gathered to enjoy Sloppy Joe sandwiches and root-beer floats and their favorite tunes courtesy of the Stranger Creek Band and tonight's two great guest artists. The band, including John Malone on drums, kicked off the evening with "Gordon's Boogie" and Gordon Riley himself, the group's great lead guitar player returned to pick & sing Elvis's "Big Boss Man" before they took off on a great instrumental of "Honky Tonk." Larry Dean was in extra-fine voice tonight singing a pair of Merle Haggard tunes "Pair Of Blue Eyes In Texas" and "I Had A Beautiful Time. Later Larry got a big hand as he sang a Ricky Skaggs classic "Hiway 40 Blues," a great bluegrass tune, the Stanley Bros. "Hills Of Roan County," "Back To Louisiana," "Down Deep" and for the young at heart "Old Time Rock & Roll." Our friend Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night sure got our approval as he began by playing our personal favorite fiddle tune "Ragtime Annie." Somewhat later, Marvin returned with the old Bob Wills' classic "Milk Cow Blues" and "Maiden's Prayer," one of the prettiest fiddle tunes you will ever hear.
Mary Bichelmeyer also sounded just super tonight singing an old standard "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You," Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," "Bill Bailey" and Highway 101's "Walkin' Talkin' Cryin' Barely Beatin' Broken Heart." Husband, multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer sang four of the many songs he has composed, "Northern Star" (beautiful!), Nodaway River (song about the hardships our pioneer ancestors endured), "Would You Catch A Falling Star" and the brand-new "Losing You." Great job Garry! Of course, through all of the music we heard tonight we were doubly entertained with the dobro-playing of Fred Uzzell on dobro (he's also a fixture at Annie's Country Jubilee, playing steel guitar & dobro there each Saturday) and Frankie Kay, one of this area's best know steel players who at one time played in Cowboy Copus' band. But there was also some great solo work from these two as well with Fred beginning with a crowd favorite, "Redwing" then returning with the beautiful "McHattie's Waltz," "Fireball Mail" (one of our favorites) and the pretty "Peach Pickin' Time In Georgia." Frankie on the other hand played some sweet steel and sang "Sugar Moon" then it was "Boothill Drag" and the "Down & Dirty Blues" with Larry Dean doing the honors on harmonica. Larry closed this terrific evening with Merle's "Silver Wings."
(Below) top Fred Uzzell (l.) & Frankie Kay (r.) below: Larry Dean, Garry Bichelmeyer, Marvin Bredemeier & Gordon Riley watch guest artists Fred Uzzell & Frankie Kay perform.
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GRINTER BARN JAMBOREE
We all had high expectations when we went to the Grinter Barn last night for the jamboree. I think I can honestly say that what we experienced far exceeded our expectations. Our great special guests were outstanding. Fred Uzell with his Dobro and Frankie Kay and his Steel Guitar along with of course, the Stranger Creek Band put on an outstanding show. Fred and Frankie are both amazing talents.
The text and photos below are reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins. Many thanks to them!!
The Grinter Barn was packed tonight as traditional country music lovers gathered to enjoy Sloppy Joe sandwiches and root-beer floats and their favorite tunes courtesy of the Stranger Creek Band and tonight's two great guest artists. The band, including John Malone on drums, kicked off the evening with "Gordon's Boogie" and Gordon Riley himself, the group's great lead guitar player returned to pick & sing Elvis's "Big Boss Man" before they took off on a great instrumental of "Honky Tonk." Larry Dean was in extra-fine voice tonight singing a pair of Merle Haggard tunes "Pair Of Blue Eyes In Texas" and "I Had A Beautiful Time. Later Larry got a big hand as he sang a Ricky Skaggs classic "Hiway 40 Blues," a great bluegrass tune, the Stanley Bros. "Hills Of Roan County," "Back To Louisiana," "Down Deep" and for the young at heart "Old Time Rock & Roll." Our friend Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night sure got our approval as he began by playing our personal favorite fiddle tune "Ragtime Annie." Somewhat later, Marvin returned with the old Bob Wills' classic "Milk Cow Blues" and "Maiden's Prayer," one of the prettiest fiddle tunes you will ever hear.
Mary Bichelmeyer also sounded just super tonight singing an old standard "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You," Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," "Bill Bailey" and Highway 101's "Walkin' Talkin' Cryin' Barely Beatin' Broken Heart." Husband, multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer sang four of the many songs he has composed, "Northern Star" (beautiful!), Nodaway River (song about the hardships our pioneer ancestors endured), "Would You Catch A Falling Star" and the brand-new "Losing You." Great job Garry! Of course, through all of the music we heard tonight we were doubly entertained with the dobro-playing of Fred Uzzell on dobro (he's also a fixture at Annie's Country Jubilee, playing steel guitar & dobro there each Saturday) and Frankie Kay, one of this area's best know steel players who at one time played in Cowboy Copus' band. But there was also some great solo work from these two as well with Fred beginning with a crowd favorite, "Redwing" then returning with the beautiful "McHattie's Waltz," "Fireball Mail" (one of our favorites) and the pretty "Peach Pickin' Time In Georgia." Frankie on the other hand played some sweet steel and sang "Sugar Moon" then it was "Boothill Drag" and the "Down & Dirty Blues" with Larry Dean doing the honors on harmonica. Larry closed this terrific evening with Merle's "Silver Wings."
(Below) top Fred Uzzell (l.) & Frankie Kay (r.) below: Larry Dean, Garry Bichelmeyer, Marvin Bredemeier & Gordon Riley watch guest artists Fred Uzzell & Frankie Kay perform.
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Wednesday, August 18, 2010
AUGUST 17, 2010
BK LOUNGE
If you have not yet checked into the MO-KAN OPRY web site, please do so. That site is operated by a couple of what I believe are the best friends of country music in this area. Roger and Jean Hawkins list and promote nearly every country music show around. These lists include show dates and times. They regularly travel to visit each of the shows they have listed. Upon their return from these sometimes long excursions, they write a detailed review of what they have seen and heard including a complete, accurate list of music performed by each artist. Through their kindness and generosity they regularly permit me to use all or part of their articles about the Stranger Creek band shows. Their web site is a must see site for all of you country music fans. MO-KAN OPRY.com. Thanks, Roger & Jean
Another big crowd, taking advantage of the cooler weather, jam-packed the BK tonight as Gordon Riley, the band's great lead guitar player and the rest of the band including John Malone on drums kicked the night's festivities off with "Gordon's Boogie" and "Won't You Ride In My Little Red Wagon." After Gordon did a super job singing "Red Necks, White Socks & Blue Ribbon Beer," he and the band returned with the upbeat "Panhandle Rag." Larry Dean stepped front and center to sing a favorite Johnny Cash tune "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town" and David Allan Coe's "You Never Even Called Me By My Name." Next up was Marvin Bredemeier, whose legendary fiddling can be heard every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee. Tonight Marvin chose "Rubber Dolly," "Take Me Back To Tulsa" and "The Waltz You Saved For Me" (with Larry Dean on vocals). David Purcell got a big hand as he stepped to the mike to sing Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "A Once In A Lifetime Thing." Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft voice this evening to sing Hank Sr.'s "I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)" and "Your Cheating Heart" while multi talented husband Garry Bichelmeyer sang one of his original songs "I'm So Lonesome In The Saddle Since My Horse Died" which has become know fondly as "The Dead Horse Song" and a song he is presently working on, "Losing You." It was great seeing Art Covey again, listening to him play his mandolin and sing Darrell McCall's "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone" and "Falling Leaves."
Mark Hayden, one of this area's top banjo players joined the gang tonight and was featured on "Down Yonder," "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" and "Rollin In My Sweet Baby's Arms" with Gordon, Larry & Marvin doing the vocals. Jerome Oberle brought along his button accordian this evening and really got the dance floor packed as he played the "Pennslyvania Polka" and the "Beer Barrell Polka." We were delighted to see Ron Fine made the trip tonight and he put his awesome vocal talents to work on Elvis' "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I" and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's "Little Mountain Church House." Our friend Mike Hughes also showed what a great singer he is with Eddy Arnold's "Make The World Go Away" and Merle's "Swinging Doors." Although Annie Little is practically a regular, we never tire of hearing her beautiful voice and tonight she sang "Have You Ever Been Lonely" and a Garry Bichelmeyer tune "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind."
Tonight's program ended with Larry Dean's beautiful recitation of "Old Barns & People" and Mark Hayden & the band playing "Cripple Creek." (Below) l. to r. Ron Fine, Mike Hughes, Mark Hayden, Jerome Oberle P.S. Photo taken with new camera. Getting somewhat used to it.
+-+Jerome+Oberle++08-17-2010.jpg)
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BK LOUNGE
If you have not yet checked into the MO-KAN OPRY web site, please do so. That site is operated by a couple of what I believe are the best friends of country music in this area. Roger and Jean Hawkins list and promote nearly every country music show around. These lists include show dates and times. They regularly travel to visit each of the shows they have listed. Upon their return from these sometimes long excursions, they write a detailed review of what they have seen and heard including a complete, accurate list of music performed by each artist. Through their kindness and generosity they regularly permit me to use all or part of their articles about the Stranger Creek band shows. Their web site is a must see site for all of you country music fans. MO-KAN OPRY.com. Thanks, Roger & Jean
Another big crowd, taking advantage of the cooler weather, jam-packed the BK tonight as Gordon Riley, the band's great lead guitar player and the rest of the band including John Malone on drums kicked the night's festivities off with "Gordon's Boogie" and "Won't You Ride In My Little Red Wagon." After Gordon did a super job singing "Red Necks, White Socks & Blue Ribbon Beer," he and the band returned with the upbeat "Panhandle Rag." Larry Dean stepped front and center to sing a favorite Johnny Cash tune "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town" and David Allan Coe's "You Never Even Called Me By My Name." Next up was Marvin Bredemeier, whose legendary fiddling can be heard every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee. Tonight Marvin chose "Rubber Dolly," "Take Me Back To Tulsa" and "The Waltz You Saved For Me" (with Larry Dean on vocals). David Purcell got a big hand as he stepped to the mike to sing Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "A Once In A Lifetime Thing." Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft voice this evening to sing Hank Sr.'s "I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)" and "Your Cheating Heart" while multi talented husband Garry Bichelmeyer sang one of his original songs "I'm So Lonesome In The Saddle Since My Horse Died" which has become know fondly as "The Dead Horse Song" and a song he is presently working on, "Losing You." It was great seeing Art Covey again, listening to him play his mandolin and sing Darrell McCall's "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone" and "Falling Leaves."
Mark Hayden, one of this area's top banjo players joined the gang tonight and was featured on "Down Yonder," "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" and "Rollin In My Sweet Baby's Arms" with Gordon, Larry & Marvin doing the vocals. Jerome Oberle brought along his button accordian this evening and really got the dance floor packed as he played the "Pennslyvania Polka" and the "Beer Barrell Polka." We were delighted to see Ron Fine made the trip tonight and he put his awesome vocal talents to work on Elvis' "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I" and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's "Little Mountain Church House." Our friend Mike Hughes also showed what a great singer he is with Eddy Arnold's "Make The World Go Away" and Merle's "Swinging Doors." Although Annie Little is practically a regular, we never tire of hearing her beautiful voice and tonight she sang "Have You Ever Been Lonely" and a Garry Bichelmeyer tune "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind."
Tonight's program ended with Larry Dean's beautiful recitation of "Old Barns & People" and Mark Hayden & the band playing "Cripple Creek." (Below) l. to r. Ron Fine, Mike Hughes, Mark Hayden, Jerome Oberle P.S. Photo taken with new camera. Getting somewhat used to it.
+-+Jerome+Oberle++08-17-2010.jpg)
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Wednesday, August 11, 2010
AUGUST 10, 2010
BK LOUNGE
What a line-up of Special Guests We had drop into the lounge to visit us tonight. Three of the outstanding artists of the area; Arnie Johnson, Ron Fine and Larry Smith all came by. Of course, Larry coaxed each of them front and center to entertain us and we were not disappointed with any of them. While on the subject of special guests, we are able to announce that on Thursday, August 19 the Stranger Creek Band will be back at the Grinter Barn Jamboree. At that time we will be honored to have two outstanding musicians join us. Fred Uzell, Dobro and Steel Guitar player from Annie's Jubilee with be with us. Also, Frankie Kay, an amazing steel guitar player will be on hand. Frankie is a veteran of many years entertaining around the Kansas City area. Many years ago, he had the distinction of playing steel guitar with Cowboy Copas' band. Come on out and join us for some of the ladies of Grinter's Sloppy Jo's and Root Beer Floats then enjoy the wonderful country music that will follow.
The rest of this article is being reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY's site through the courtesy and generosity of Roger and Jean Hawkins.
Tonight's get-together saw the BK filled close to capacity in spite of the soaring temperatures outside. We arrived a bit late due to problems that postponed us getting away from work, but we understand Larry Dean kicked off tonight's festivities with Billy Jo Shaver's "I'm Just An Old Chunk Of Coal and Waylon Jennings' "I May Be Used (But I Ain't Used Up." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitar was up next showing his vocal abilities on Hank Thompson's "Six Pack To Go," then it was he and the rest of the band including John Malone, who does such a terrific job each week behind those drums, with a super rendition of "Bells Of St. Mary." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier put bow to fiddle tonight to play an upbeat version of the old Mills Bros. hit "Up A Lazy River" followed by the beautiful "Faded Love." Marvin, of course plays at Annie's Country Jubilee each and every Saturday night. Multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer was joined by Larry Dean for a duet of the Soggy Bottom Boys' "In The Jailhouse Now" which got a huge hand from the appreciative audience. Garry returned to sing the old Kingston Trio mega hit "Tom Dooley," Bobby Bare's "Detroit City" and a tune he wrote not too long ago, "Losing You." Mary Bichelmeyer, Garry's wife and the group's bass guitarist used her vocal talents tonight to sing Terri Gibbs' "Somebody's Knocking," "You Belong To Me" and Highway 101's "I'm A Walkin, Talkin, Cryin, Barely Beatin Broken Heart." Our pal David Purcell was in fine voice himself tonight as he treated the folks to Alan Jackson's "Here In The Real World," Merle Haggard's "It's Not Love But It's Not Bad," Waylon & Willie's "Good Hearted Woman" and George Jones' "I Always Get Lucky With You."
Tonight was an extra special night for sure as we suddenly looked up and spotted not one, not two but three great artists who dropped in to share in the festivities tonight. Arnie Johnson, who has appeared at many of the local oprys and whose band some years ago played dance halls and other venues throughout this area working out of the Lawrence, KS area, was up first and chose a Merle tune, "Branded Man" to start his set. An old Louvin Bros. tune, "I Wonder Where You Are Tonight" was next, followed by "Old Flames Can't Hold A Candle To You." Arnie returned a bit later with Elvis' "That's All Right Mama," Hank Sr.'s "Your Cheating Heart," and Merle's "Silver Wings." Larry Smith, who is certainly familiar to opry-goers throughout this region and has been a frequent visitor to the BK displayed his awesome talent next and showing what a Merle Haggard fan he is, began with "Big City" and "Okie From Muskogee" followed by Waylon's "Amanda" and "Tonight The Bottle Let Me Down." Ron Fine, whose vocals take a back seat to no one, stepped front and center to sing B. J. Thomas' "I Love You Most Of All Because You're You" and Ricky Skaggs' "I Wouldn't Change You If I Could" for the appreciative crowd.
Marvin Bredemeier closed the evening fiddling the "Beaumont Rag."
(Below) l. to r. Arnie Johnson, Ron Fine, Larry Smith
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BK LOUNGE
What a line-up of Special Guests We had drop into the lounge to visit us tonight. Three of the outstanding artists of the area; Arnie Johnson, Ron Fine and Larry Smith all came by. Of course, Larry coaxed each of them front and center to entertain us and we were not disappointed with any of them. While on the subject of special guests, we are able to announce that on Thursday, August 19 the Stranger Creek Band will be back at the Grinter Barn Jamboree. At that time we will be honored to have two outstanding musicians join us. Fred Uzell, Dobro and Steel Guitar player from Annie's Jubilee with be with us. Also, Frankie Kay, an amazing steel guitar player will be on hand. Frankie is a veteran of many years entertaining around the Kansas City area. Many years ago, he had the distinction of playing steel guitar with Cowboy Copas' band. Come on out and join us for some of the ladies of Grinter's Sloppy Jo's and Root Beer Floats then enjoy the wonderful country music that will follow.
The rest of this article is being reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY's site through the courtesy and generosity of Roger and Jean Hawkins.
Tonight's get-together saw the BK filled close to capacity in spite of the soaring temperatures outside. We arrived a bit late due to problems that postponed us getting away from work, but we understand Larry Dean kicked off tonight's festivities with Billy Jo Shaver's "I'm Just An Old Chunk Of Coal and Waylon Jennings' "I May Be Used (But I Ain't Used Up." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitar was up next showing his vocal abilities on Hank Thompson's "Six Pack To Go," then it was he and the rest of the band including John Malone, who does such a terrific job each week behind those drums, with a super rendition of "Bells Of St. Mary." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier put bow to fiddle tonight to play an upbeat version of the old Mills Bros. hit "Up A Lazy River" followed by the beautiful "Faded Love." Marvin, of course plays at Annie's Country Jubilee each and every Saturday night. Multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer was joined by Larry Dean for a duet of the Soggy Bottom Boys' "In The Jailhouse Now" which got a huge hand from the appreciative audience. Garry returned to sing the old Kingston Trio mega hit "Tom Dooley," Bobby Bare's "Detroit City" and a tune he wrote not too long ago, "Losing You." Mary Bichelmeyer, Garry's wife and the group's bass guitarist used her vocal talents tonight to sing Terri Gibbs' "Somebody's Knocking," "You Belong To Me" and Highway 101's "I'm A Walkin, Talkin, Cryin, Barely Beatin Broken Heart." Our pal David Purcell was in fine voice himself tonight as he treated the folks to Alan Jackson's "Here In The Real World," Merle Haggard's "It's Not Love But It's Not Bad," Waylon & Willie's "Good Hearted Woman" and George Jones' "I Always Get Lucky With You."
Tonight was an extra special night for sure as we suddenly looked up and spotted not one, not two but three great artists who dropped in to share in the festivities tonight. Arnie Johnson, who has appeared at many of the local oprys and whose band some years ago played dance halls and other venues throughout this area working out of the Lawrence, KS area, was up first and chose a Merle tune, "Branded Man" to start his set. An old Louvin Bros. tune, "I Wonder Where You Are Tonight" was next, followed by "Old Flames Can't Hold A Candle To You." Arnie returned a bit later with Elvis' "That's All Right Mama," Hank Sr.'s "Your Cheating Heart," and Merle's "Silver Wings." Larry Smith, who is certainly familiar to opry-goers throughout this region and has been a frequent visitor to the BK displayed his awesome talent next and showing what a Merle Haggard fan he is, began with "Big City" and "Okie From Muskogee" followed by Waylon's "Amanda" and "Tonight The Bottle Let Me Down." Ron Fine, whose vocals take a back seat to no one, stepped front and center to sing B. J. Thomas' "I Love You Most Of All Because You're You" and Ricky Skaggs' "I Wouldn't Change You If I Could" for the appreciative crowd.
Marvin Bredemeier closed the evening fiddling the "Beaumont Rag."
(Below) l. to r. Arnie Johnson, Ron Fine, Larry Smith
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Saturday, August 7, 2010
AUGUST 6, 2010
JOHNSON COUNTY FAIR
We arrived early because we did not know how to find the Midway stage where we were to perform. Luckily, we quickly found a lady that knew where it was and had her young son lead us through the crowded campground and keep all of the children out of our way as he directed us to the stage. Many thanks to that Mom and son for their help! We watched a fine young dance troupe perform ahead of us. Afterwards as we set up our equipment, a nice crowd including several of our regular followers gathered for our performance.
Below is reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com - Thanks Roger & Jean
Having traveled with some friends out to Gardner, KS where the Johnson County Fair is held each year at the sprawling fair grounds there, we managed to locate the Midway Stage, a large, covered dwelling, as it's name implies, near the center of all the bustling activity a fair invites. We set up our chairs in a front row position, got some drinks & food from one of the many vendors nearby and as we relaxed, an Overland Park dance studio brought a number of students - young ladies of various ages to perform for the swelling crowd. Dressed in darling costumes, these girls performed their routines flawlessly and seemingly effortlessly. The appreciative audience applauded long after they had left the stage.
As the Stranger Creek Band began to set up, dragging those heavy speakers, amps, wiring and instruments up on stage, we happened to run into an old friend, Greg Hermon. As a matter of fact, Greg and I were next door neighbors as teenagers living in Roeland Park. Greg now serves as State President of the Kansas Oldtime Fiddlers Pickers and Singers, Inc. proving that this is indeed a small world. Hopefully, we'll have the opportunity to visit again after exchanging phone numbers and e-mails.
"Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, the group's fiddle player and the rest of the band, including John Malone on drums kicked off tonight's 2-hour set with an old fiddle tune, "Back Up And Push." Marvin, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie every Saturday night returned a bit later with one of our favorites "Ragtime Annie," Merle Travis' "Smoke Smake Smoke That Cigarette," "Fire On The Mountain" and Bob Will's "Milk Cow Blues." Larry Dean got an ovation from the big crowd as he sang Ricky Skaggs' "Hiway 40 Blues," Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin Boogie," "Old Time Rock & Roll," a song he wrote with Garry Bichelmeyer, "The Winner," Vern Gosdin's "That Just About Does It Don't It," Roger Miller's "King Of The Road," Johnny Cash's "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town" and Delbert McClinton's "Back To Louisiana." David Purcell got the feet tappin and the hands clappin as he thrilled the crowd with his best Willie Nelson sound alike on "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away" and "On The Road Again." David returned to sing George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away," George Jones' "I Always Get Lucky With You," a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star," Jack Blanchard & Misty Morgan's "Tennessee Bird Walk," Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "Remember Me." The band's great lead guitar player, Gordon Riley showed his vocal skills as he picked and sang "Nine Pound Hammer," then joined the rest of the gang on instrumentals "Harbor Lights," "Honky Tonk" and "Ghost Riders In The Sky" (Larry Dean vocals).
Mary Bichelmeyer who plays bass for the group, used her smooth, mellow voice to sing Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" and "Bill Bailey" while husband, multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer did just an awesome job singing Charlie Pride's "Is Anybody Goin' To San Antone," Billy Currington's "People Are Crazy" and one of his original tunes, "Marie." Garry & Mary also teamed up for a duet of Lacy J. Dalton's "Black Coffee." David Purcell closed this wonderful set with "Once In A Lifetime Thing."
Again, many thanks to Roger & Jean for allowing us to reprint their blog from MO-KAN OPRY.com.
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JOHNSON COUNTY FAIR
We arrived early because we did not know how to find the Midway stage where we were to perform. Luckily, we quickly found a lady that knew where it was and had her young son lead us through the crowded campground and keep all of the children out of our way as he directed us to the stage. Many thanks to that Mom and son for their help! We watched a fine young dance troupe perform ahead of us. Afterwards as we set up our equipment, a nice crowd including several of our regular followers gathered for our performance.
Below is reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com - Thanks Roger & Jean
Having traveled with some friends out to Gardner, KS where the Johnson County Fair is held each year at the sprawling fair grounds there, we managed to locate the Midway Stage, a large, covered dwelling, as it's name implies, near the center of all the bustling activity a fair invites. We set up our chairs in a front row position, got some drinks & food from one of the many vendors nearby and as we relaxed, an Overland Park dance studio brought a number of students - young ladies of various ages to perform for the swelling crowd. Dressed in darling costumes, these girls performed their routines flawlessly and seemingly effortlessly. The appreciative audience applauded long after they had left the stage.
As the Stranger Creek Band began to set up, dragging those heavy speakers, amps, wiring and instruments up on stage, we happened to run into an old friend, Greg Hermon. As a matter of fact, Greg and I were next door neighbors as teenagers living in Roeland Park. Greg now serves as State President of the Kansas Oldtime Fiddlers Pickers and Singers, Inc. proving that this is indeed a small world. Hopefully, we'll have the opportunity to visit again after exchanging phone numbers and e-mails.
"Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, the group's fiddle player and the rest of the band, including John Malone on drums kicked off tonight's 2-hour set with an old fiddle tune, "Back Up And Push." Marvin, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie every Saturday night returned a bit later with one of our favorites "Ragtime Annie," Merle Travis' "Smoke Smake Smoke That Cigarette," "Fire On The Mountain" and Bob Will's "Milk Cow Blues." Larry Dean got an ovation from the big crowd as he sang Ricky Skaggs' "Hiway 40 Blues," Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin Boogie," "Old Time Rock & Roll," a song he wrote with Garry Bichelmeyer, "The Winner," Vern Gosdin's "That Just About Does It Don't It," Roger Miller's "King Of The Road," Johnny Cash's "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town" and Delbert McClinton's "Back To Louisiana." David Purcell got the feet tappin and the hands clappin as he thrilled the crowd with his best Willie Nelson sound alike on "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away" and "On The Road Again." David returned to sing George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away," George Jones' "I Always Get Lucky With You," a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star," Jack Blanchard & Misty Morgan's "Tennessee Bird Walk," Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "Remember Me." The band's great lead guitar player, Gordon Riley showed his vocal skills as he picked and sang "Nine Pound Hammer," then joined the rest of the gang on instrumentals "Harbor Lights," "Honky Tonk" and "Ghost Riders In The Sky" (Larry Dean vocals).
Mary Bichelmeyer who plays bass for the group, used her smooth, mellow voice to sing Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" and "Bill Bailey" while husband, multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer did just an awesome job singing Charlie Pride's "Is Anybody Goin' To San Antone," Billy Currington's "People Are Crazy" and one of his original tunes, "Marie." Garry & Mary also teamed up for a duet of Lacy J. Dalton's "Black Coffee." David Purcell closed this wonderful set with "Once In A Lifetime Thing."
Again, many thanks to Roger & Jean for allowing us to reprint their blog from MO-KAN OPRY.com.
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Wednesday, August 4, 2010
AUGUST 3, 2010
BK LOUNGE
The temperature in several of the cars registered 103 degrees as we arrived at the BK Lounge this evening. In spite of that heat, the crowd at the lounge quickly drew to near capacity. Fortunately, we were able to get the sound equipment from Garry's car in time to set up and were only about ten minutes late getting the show underway.
We hope that all of you come out to see us at the Johnson County Fair on Friday evening from 8:30 to 10:30.
The rest of this blog below is reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com with permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins. Thanks Guys.
Everyone here at the BK tonight missed seeing Garry Bichelmeyer's smiling face, his great baritone vocals, the many great songs he writes and tries out on us first and his seemingly endless supply of corny jokes. Garry, unfortunately had car trouble on the way in tonight and was forced to miss tonight's session. Hope everything works out well and we see him here next week. Larry Dean took the reins this evening and began with a Ricky Skaggs number, "Hiway 40 Blues" followed by "Blue Eyes In Texas" and Tracy Byrd's "You Never Know Just How Good You Got It." He returned a bit later with Johnny Cash's "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town," Travis Tritt's "Sometimes She Forgets" and Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings."
Lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone played some great instrumentals here tonight, "Buckaroo" (Buck Owens' band's theme song), "Honky Tonk," "Wheels" and Gordon sounded super as he picked and sang Kris Kristofferson's "Me And Bobby McGee." Always an audience favorite, David Purcell certainly showed why tonight as he sang George Jones' "Walk Through This World With Me," Willie's "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away," "Northern Star" (a Garry Bichelmeyer tune), George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away" and another Willie sound-alike, "On The Road Again." "Mighty" Marvin Bredemeier who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night began his set with an old fiddle tune, "Bile That Cabbage Down" followed by "Jersey Bounce," "Westphalia Waltz," "Down Yonder" and Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues." Despite the car troubles Mary Bichelmeyer, who plays bass for the group and is a dandy singer in her own right, was able to make it in and used her soothing, mellow voice tonight to sing "Your Cheating Heart," "Don't Tell Me What To Do," "You Belong To Me" and "Paper Roses."
It was great to see Annie Little and we all enjoyed hearing her sing Patsy Cline's "I Love You Honey" and "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You." Scott Gilmore got a hand as well as he sang "Johnny B. Goode" and Jim Ed Brown's "Pop A Top Again." Larry Dean closed the evening with the spiritual "Sittin' On The Front Porch With My Jesus." FOOTNOTE: The band (which call themselves the Stranger Creek Band) will be appearing at the Johnson County Fair in Gardner this Friday evening (8/6/10) from 8:30 - 10:30 PM
(Below) l. to. r. John Malone, Larry Dean & Gordon Riley prepare to entertain the crowd tonight at the BK Lounge
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BK LOUNGE
The temperature in several of the cars registered 103 degrees as we arrived at the BK Lounge this evening. In spite of that heat, the crowd at the lounge quickly drew to near capacity. Fortunately, we were able to get the sound equipment from Garry's car in time to set up and were only about ten minutes late getting the show underway.
We hope that all of you come out to see us at the Johnson County Fair on Friday evening from 8:30 to 10:30.
The rest of this blog below is reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com with permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins. Thanks Guys.
Everyone here at the BK tonight missed seeing Garry Bichelmeyer's smiling face, his great baritone vocals, the many great songs he writes and tries out on us first and his seemingly endless supply of corny jokes. Garry, unfortunately had car trouble on the way in tonight and was forced to miss tonight's session. Hope everything works out well and we see him here next week. Larry Dean took the reins this evening and began with a Ricky Skaggs number, "Hiway 40 Blues" followed by "Blue Eyes In Texas" and Tracy Byrd's "You Never Know Just How Good You Got It." He returned a bit later with Johnny Cash's "The Night Hank Williams Came To Town," Travis Tritt's "Sometimes She Forgets" and Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings."
Lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone played some great instrumentals here tonight, "Buckaroo" (Buck Owens' band's theme song), "Honky Tonk," "Wheels" and Gordon sounded super as he picked and sang Kris Kristofferson's "Me And Bobby McGee." Always an audience favorite, David Purcell certainly showed why tonight as he sang George Jones' "Walk Through This World With Me," Willie's "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away," "Northern Star" (a Garry Bichelmeyer tune), George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away" and another Willie sound-alike, "On The Road Again." "Mighty" Marvin Bredemeier who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night began his set with an old fiddle tune, "Bile That Cabbage Down" followed by "Jersey Bounce," "Westphalia Waltz," "Down Yonder" and Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues." Despite the car troubles Mary Bichelmeyer, who plays bass for the group and is a dandy singer in her own right, was able to make it in and used her soothing, mellow voice tonight to sing "Your Cheating Heart," "Don't Tell Me What To Do," "You Belong To Me" and "Paper Roses."
It was great to see Annie Little and we all enjoyed hearing her sing Patsy Cline's "I Love You Honey" and "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You." Scott Gilmore got a hand as well as he sang "Johnny B. Goode" and Jim Ed Brown's "Pop A Top Again." Larry Dean closed the evening with the spiritual "Sittin' On The Front Porch With My Jesus." FOOTNOTE: The band (which call themselves the Stranger Creek Band) will be appearing at the Johnson County Fair in Gardner this Friday evening (8/6/10) from 8:30 - 10:30 PM
(Below) l. to. r. John Malone, Larry Dean & Gordon Riley prepare to entertain the crowd tonight at the BK Lounge
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Wednesday, July 28, 2010
JULY 27, 2010
BK LOUNGE
The heat seemed to be no deterrent for the faithful fans of the Stranger Creek Band tonight. As is the custom, the lounge was nearly full as the show began.
It was so good to see Sharon Miller back at her seat tonight after undergoing a hip replacement recently. Sharon reported that she is feeling really good and her hip is getting stronger all the time.
It is also good to see our friend, Roger Hawkins (MO-KAN OPRY) feeling better. He had a really busy weekend last week traveling around northwest Missouri to see the country music shows that he has been missing. WAY TO GO, ROGER!
The blog and photo below is reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins. Thanks, guys!
A large crowd of dancers and listeners gathered at the BK tonight in spite of the scorching temperatures outside and as the magic hour of 6:30 arrived, Larry Dean stepped front and center to sing the familiar Johnny Cash "Folsom Prison Blues," "Old Time Rock & Roll" and Delbert McClinton's "Goin' Back To Louisiana." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist and the rest of the band, including John Malone on drums did just a super job on "Back Home Again In Indiana" and Gordon himself sounded great, singing Merle Haggard's "Big City." Gordon and the crew returned later with the "Bells Of St. Mary,' Chet Atkins' "The Old Spinning Wheel" and "Honky Tonk." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle each and every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, KS was just awesome here tonight, playing "Fire On The Mountain," "Down Yonder," a medley of old fiddle tunes, "Arkansas Traveler/Ragtime Annie/Lop-eared Mule/8th of January" and "Devil's Dream."
The group's bass player and a super vocalist in her own right, Mary Bichelmeyer put her soft, sweet voice to good use, singing Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do," "Sentimental Old You" (our request- thanks Mary!), Patsy Cline's "Crazy Arms" and a great duet with husband Garry of Lacy J. Dalton's "Black Coffee." We had talked briefly with Dave Purcell a couple of weeks ago about an old George Jones number, "I Always Get Lucky With You" and darned if he and this great band didn't perform it perfectly here tonight and followed it closely with "Today I Started Loving You Again." Dave returned with Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night," "Northern Star" (a Garry Bichelmeyer tune) and a song written by Dave's father, "All The Boys You Ever Knew." And speaking of multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer, he was in fine voice himself tonight and sang "Stand By Me" for the 50's crowd, followed by two self-penned numbers "I Don't Think I Could Take Losing You" and "Marie."
Scott Gilmore was on hand tonight to help close the first half out with "Johnny B. Goode" while Annie Little stepped forward a little later to entertain the crowd with another Garry Bichelmeyer creation, "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind" and "Anne Murray's "Could I Have This Dance." It was a pleasant surprise to see Scott Lane drop in to visit tonight. A good friend of Gordon Riley's, Scott's band, The Brushhogs" play at various venues throughout the Metro area. Scott opened the second half and sounded just super singing Hank Jr.'s "Whiskey Bent & Hell Bound," Garth Brooks' "I'm Much Too Young (To Feel This Damned Old)" and Dwight Yoakam's "Fast As You." Larry Dean did a beautiful job picking his acoustical guitar and singing "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" to end tonight's festivities.
(Below) Scott Lane sings another crowd favorite
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BK LOUNGE
The heat seemed to be no deterrent for the faithful fans of the Stranger Creek Band tonight. As is the custom, the lounge was nearly full as the show began.
It was so good to see Sharon Miller back at her seat tonight after undergoing a hip replacement recently. Sharon reported that she is feeling really good and her hip is getting stronger all the time.
It is also good to see our friend, Roger Hawkins (MO-KAN OPRY) feeling better. He had a really busy weekend last week traveling around northwest Missouri to see the country music shows that he has been missing. WAY TO GO, ROGER!
The blog and photo below is reprinted from MO-KAN OPRY.com with the permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins. Thanks, guys!
A large crowd of dancers and listeners gathered at the BK tonight in spite of the scorching temperatures outside and as the magic hour of 6:30 arrived, Larry Dean stepped front and center to sing the familiar Johnny Cash "Folsom Prison Blues," "Old Time Rock & Roll" and Delbert McClinton's "Goin' Back To Louisiana." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist and the rest of the band, including John Malone on drums did just a super job on "Back Home Again In Indiana" and Gordon himself sounded great, singing Merle Haggard's "Big City." Gordon and the crew returned later with the "Bells Of St. Mary,' Chet Atkins' "The Old Spinning Wheel" and "Honky Tonk." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle each and every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, KS was just awesome here tonight, playing "Fire On The Mountain," "Down Yonder," a medley of old fiddle tunes, "Arkansas Traveler/Ragtime Annie/Lop-eared Mule/8th of January" and "Devil's Dream."
The group's bass player and a super vocalist in her own right, Mary Bichelmeyer put her soft, sweet voice to good use, singing Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do," "Sentimental Old You" (our request- thanks Mary!), Patsy Cline's "Crazy Arms" and a great duet with husband Garry of Lacy J. Dalton's "Black Coffee." We had talked briefly with Dave Purcell a couple of weeks ago about an old George Jones number, "I Always Get Lucky With You" and darned if he and this great band didn't perform it perfectly here tonight and followed it closely with "Today I Started Loving You Again." Dave returned with Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night," "Northern Star" (a Garry Bichelmeyer tune) and a song written by Dave's father, "All The Boys You Ever Knew." And speaking of multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer, he was in fine voice himself tonight and sang "Stand By Me" for the 50's crowd, followed by two self-penned numbers "I Don't Think I Could Take Losing You" and "Marie."
Scott Gilmore was on hand tonight to help close the first half out with "Johnny B. Goode" while Annie Little stepped forward a little later to entertain the crowd with another Garry Bichelmeyer creation, "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind" and "Anne Murray's "Could I Have This Dance." It was a pleasant surprise to see Scott Lane drop in to visit tonight. A good friend of Gordon Riley's, Scott's band, The Brushhogs" play at various venues throughout the Metro area. Scott opened the second half and sounded just super singing Hank Jr.'s "Whiskey Bent & Hell Bound," Garth Brooks' "I'm Much Too Young (To Feel This Damned Old)" and Dwight Yoakam's "Fast As You." Larry Dean did a beautiful job picking his acoustical guitar and singing "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" to end tonight's festivities.
(Below) Scott Lane sings another crowd favorite
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Wednesday, July 21, 2010
JULY 20, 2010
BK LOUNGE
Just about an hour before show time a big wind and rain storm blew up over the area. Some of the band members got pretty wet trying to get their equipment in without it getting too wet. However, we did get everything in with no damage. Some of our fans must have decided to stay home out of the weather tonight because the crowd was smaller than usual. But we opened to a nice group and everyone soon got into the mood for some good music.
Once again, I am reprinting Roger and Jean's blog from MO-KAN Opry.com They do such an outstanding job of writing, I could not come up all of the song titles and the original performers like they do. Also, I would not have time to write it all down and operate the sound equipment, too. I appreciate their generosity so much in sharing their work with us. Be sure to go to their web site, MO-KAN OPRY.Com for information on all the shows in this and the surrounding areas. Thanks again Roger & Jean!!
The crowd was a tad smaller than usual due to the big storm that eventually dropped more than 2" of rain on the metro area, but none the less enthusiastic as Larry Dean stepped to the mike and started tonight's festivities with Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues" followed by a Travis Tritt number "Living On Borrowed Time" and Eddie Arnold's "Make The World Go Away." Larry returned later in the evening with with a couple of George Jones tunes "You Just Don't Know How Good You Got It" and "Sinners & Saints" as well as a rock & roll classic, Elvis' "Don't Be Cruel." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist was up next to sing Dave Dudley's "Truck Driving Man" and he and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone did a super job on the instrumental "Honky Tonk." Multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer got a big hand as he sang the old bluegrass standard "The Old Home Place," "A Rainy Day Off" (a song written by Garry some years back), "Catch A Falling Star," "Long Black Train" and "Stand By Me."
Our friend "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, KS every Saturday night was a tad late tonight due to the high waters near his house, but great troupers that they are, he and wife Sug made the tough trip across town to entertain the folks tonight. Marvin began his set fiddling "Silver Bells," then it was the Merle Travis classic "Smoke Smoke Smoke That Cigarette." A bit later Marvin returned with "Rubber Dolly," "Faded Love" and by request "Ragtime Annie." Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player showed her vocal talents, singing "Don't Tell Me What To Do," Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight" and "Your Cheating Heart." David Purcell did his usual fine job tonight singing audience favorites "The Cowboy Rides Away", a George Strait number, Willie Nelson's "On The Road Again," a Garry Bichelmeyer number, "Northern Star," "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "You're A Once In A Lifetime Thing." It's always a pleasure to see Ron Fine stop by and sing a few with the gang and tonight he did just a super job with the Waylon/Jesse classic "Storms Never Last" and Hank Sr.'s "House Of Gold." Ron also closed out the evening with "Mountain Railway."
(Below) Mary (l.) and Garry (r.) Bichelmeyer visit with David Purcell (seated)
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BK LOUNGE
Just about an hour before show time a big wind and rain storm blew up over the area. Some of the band members got pretty wet trying to get their equipment in without it getting too wet. However, we did get everything in with no damage. Some of our fans must have decided to stay home out of the weather tonight because the crowd was smaller than usual. But we opened to a nice group and everyone soon got into the mood for some good music.
Once again, I am reprinting Roger and Jean's blog from MO-KAN Opry.com They do such an outstanding job of writing, I could not come up all of the song titles and the original performers like they do. Also, I would not have time to write it all down and operate the sound equipment, too. I appreciate their generosity so much in sharing their work with us. Be sure to go to their web site, MO-KAN OPRY.Com for information on all the shows in this and the surrounding areas. Thanks again Roger & Jean!!
The crowd was a tad smaller than usual due to the big storm that eventually dropped more than 2" of rain on the metro area, but none the less enthusiastic as Larry Dean stepped to the mike and started tonight's festivities with Johnny Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues" followed by a Travis Tritt number "Living On Borrowed Time" and Eddie Arnold's "Make The World Go Away." Larry returned later in the evening with with a couple of George Jones tunes "You Just Don't Know How Good You Got It" and "Sinners & Saints" as well as a rock & roll classic, Elvis' "Don't Be Cruel." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist was up next to sing Dave Dudley's "Truck Driving Man" and he and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone did a super job on the instrumental "Honky Tonk." Multi-talented Garry Bichelmeyer got a big hand as he sang the old bluegrass standard "The Old Home Place," "A Rainy Day Off" (a song written by Garry some years back), "Catch A Falling Star," "Long Black Train" and "Stand By Me."
Our friend "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, KS every Saturday night was a tad late tonight due to the high waters near his house, but great troupers that they are, he and wife Sug made the tough trip across town to entertain the folks tonight. Marvin began his set fiddling "Silver Bells," then it was the Merle Travis classic "Smoke Smoke Smoke That Cigarette." A bit later Marvin returned with "Rubber Dolly," "Faded Love" and by request "Ragtime Annie." Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player showed her vocal talents, singing "Don't Tell Me What To Do," Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight" and "Your Cheating Heart." David Purcell did his usual fine job tonight singing audience favorites "The Cowboy Rides Away", a George Strait number, Willie Nelson's "On The Road Again," a Garry Bichelmeyer number, "Northern Star," "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "You're A Once In A Lifetime Thing." It's always a pleasure to see Ron Fine stop by and sing a few with the gang and tonight he did just a super job with the Waylon/Jesse classic "Storms Never Last" and Hank Sr.'s "House Of Gold." Ron also closed out the evening with "Mountain Railway."
(Below) Mary (l.) and Garry (r.) Bichelmeyer visit with David Purcell (seated)
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Thursday, July 15, 2010
JULY 15, 2010
GRINTER BARN JAMBOREE
As usual, the ladies from "Friends of Grinter" came up with a delicious meal before the show tonight. When the Taco Salad was finished, the band took their place in front of a large, capacity crowd at the Grinter Barn.
The show was outstanding, too. The entire band was in their usual fine form and just before the break, a cake was brought in while Larry Dean sang "Take This Job And Shove It" in honor of Garry Bichelmeyer's recent retirement.
Dave Purcell made a surprise visit during the first set and entertained us with a few songs. Dave is always very, very well received by the audience and tonight was no exception.
And we were honored to have as special guest from Annie's Jubilee, Mr. Fred Uzell. Fred delighted everyone present with great Dobro music throughout the show. We certainly look forward to seeing and hearing Fred again soon.
We are able to announce two new engagements for the band tonight. On Friday,
August 6; please join us at the Johnson County Fair in Gardner KS for a show from 8:30-10:30.
Also, on Friday, September 24 we hope to see you all at the Grinter Applefest. Time and details for that show will be announced at a later date.
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GRINTER BARN JAMBOREE
As usual, the ladies from "Friends of Grinter" came up with a delicious meal before the show tonight. When the Taco Salad was finished, the band took their place in front of a large, capacity crowd at the Grinter Barn.
The show was outstanding, too. The entire band was in their usual fine form and just before the break, a cake was brought in while Larry Dean sang "Take This Job And Shove It" in honor of Garry Bichelmeyer's recent retirement.
Dave Purcell made a surprise visit during the first set and entertained us with a few songs. Dave is always very, very well received by the audience and tonight was no exception.
And we were honored to have as special guest from Annie's Jubilee, Mr. Fred Uzell. Fred delighted everyone present with great Dobro music throughout the show. We certainly look forward to seeing and hearing Fred again soon.
We are able to announce two new engagements for the band tonight. On Friday,
August 6; please join us at the Johnson County Fair in Gardner KS for a show from 8:30-10:30.
Also, on Friday, September 24 we hope to see you all at the Grinter Applefest. Time and details for that show will be announced at a later date.
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Wednesday, July 14, 2010
JULY 13, 2010
BK LOUNGE
Despite a hot evening, the crowd was near capacity and very enthusiastic as the band took their places last night. It was good to see so many new faces and all of the old ones again. The band especially appreciates all the people that return week after week to listen to them and enjoy the company of friends.
Be sure to join us Thursday, July 15 for the Grinter Barn Jamboree. The ladies are going to serve Taco Salad and our special guest will be Fred Uzell from Annie's Jubilee in Tonganoxie KS. Fred is the Dobro and Steel Guitar player at the Jubilee every Saturday night.
Once again we are reprinting the text below from MO-KAN Opry. Thanks to Roger and Jean Hawkins. They do it so much better than I could.
Like everyone else. we sometimes take things for granted but we took a moment this evening to reflect on how lucky we were to have a place like this to escape Tuesday evening's searing heat and walk into the air-conditioned comfort of the BK, visit briefly with old friends and to sit back, relax and be entertained for the next 2-1/2 hours by this great little band who plays the kind of music we love the most -- good ole down-home traditional country music! Some years ago when John & Mary Pettersch invited us to stop by some Tuesday night and check things out, we had no idea as to the extent this relationship would nurture and grow nor even a hint as to the friendships and alliances that would develop in time. We don't miss many Tuesday nights if we can help it and we consider it both a pleasure and a privledge each and every time we attend.
Larry Dean kicked off tonight's session with a great Travis Tritt number "I'm A Member Of A Country Club," Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler" and a favorite George Jones song "If Drinking Don't Kill Me (Your Memory Will)." Larry returned later with the sidesplitting Brad Paisley hit "Ode De Toilet" (The Toilet Song). We swear David Purcell sounds better each and every time we hear him. Tonight he did a beautiful job on Keith Whitley's "When Each Tear You Cry Becomes A Rose," "There Will Always Be That One" and Willie's "Remember Me." Returning later, it was George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away," "I Wonder How Many There Would Be" (a song written by Dave's late father) and "You're A Once In A Lifetime Thing." Master lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer extraordinare John Malone jumped back in time a bit to do an old Chet Atkins number "Spinning Wheel" and a bit later stirred up the dancers with the "Pennslyvania Polka." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier who plays fiddle every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee and incidently was once one of Hank Thompson's Brazos Valley Boys got the fingers poppin' and the feet shufflin' as he played Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues," "Down Yonder" for BK employee Julio - "I Love My Rancho Grande" and a special request (guess who?) "Ragtime Annie!" Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft, melodious voice tonight to sing "Tears On My Pillow," Patsy Cline's "I Fall To Pieces" and "I'm Blue Again" while multi-talented husband Garry Bichelmeyer got a big ovation as he sang "Kansas City," a song he just recently finished writing entitled "Losing You" and Johnny Cash's "Ring Of Fire."
Annie Little was on hand this evening and got a hand as she sang "Let Me Be There" and Johnny Cash's "Remember Me I'm The One Who Loves You" while Scott Gilmore got the line dancers moving shortly before break with "Johnny B. Goode." Bill McFalt also popped in to sing a great oldie, "I Overlooked An Orchid" and Ron Fine, who we love to hear sing these great old country standards did an incredible job with "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I," the Waylon/Jesse classsic "Storms Never Last" and closed tonight's festivities with the Hank Williams gospel number "House Of Gold." (Below) Ron Fine entertains the crowd with another classic number
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BK LOUNGE
Despite a hot evening, the crowd was near capacity and very enthusiastic as the band took their places last night. It was good to see so many new faces and all of the old ones again. The band especially appreciates all the people that return week after week to listen to them and enjoy the company of friends.
Be sure to join us Thursday, July 15 for the Grinter Barn Jamboree. The ladies are going to serve Taco Salad and our special guest will be Fred Uzell from Annie's Jubilee in Tonganoxie KS. Fred is the Dobro and Steel Guitar player at the Jubilee every Saturday night.
Once again we are reprinting the text below from MO-KAN Opry. Thanks to Roger and Jean Hawkins. They do it so much better than I could.
Like everyone else. we sometimes take things for granted but we took a moment this evening to reflect on how lucky we were to have a place like this to escape Tuesday evening's searing heat and walk into the air-conditioned comfort of the BK, visit briefly with old friends and to sit back, relax and be entertained for the next 2-1/2 hours by this great little band who plays the kind of music we love the most -- good ole down-home traditional country music! Some years ago when John & Mary Pettersch invited us to stop by some Tuesday night and check things out, we had no idea as to the extent this relationship would nurture and grow nor even a hint as to the friendships and alliances that would develop in time. We don't miss many Tuesday nights if we can help it and we consider it both a pleasure and a privledge each and every time we attend.
Larry Dean kicked off tonight's session with a great Travis Tritt number "I'm A Member Of A Country Club," Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler" and a favorite George Jones song "If Drinking Don't Kill Me (Your Memory Will)." Larry returned later with the sidesplitting Brad Paisley hit "Ode De Toilet" (The Toilet Song). We swear David Purcell sounds better each and every time we hear him. Tonight he did a beautiful job on Keith Whitley's "When Each Tear You Cry Becomes A Rose," "There Will Always Be That One" and Willie's "Remember Me." Returning later, it was George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away," "I Wonder How Many There Would Be" (a song written by Dave's late father) and "You're A Once In A Lifetime Thing." Master lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer extraordinare John Malone jumped back in time a bit to do an old Chet Atkins number "Spinning Wheel" and a bit later stirred up the dancers with the "Pennslyvania Polka." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier who plays fiddle every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee and incidently was once one of Hank Thompson's Brazos Valley Boys got the fingers poppin' and the feet shufflin' as he played Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues," "Down Yonder" for BK employee Julio - "I Love My Rancho Grande" and a special request (guess who?) "Ragtime Annie!" Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft, melodious voice tonight to sing "Tears On My Pillow," Patsy Cline's "I Fall To Pieces" and "I'm Blue Again" while multi-talented husband Garry Bichelmeyer got a big ovation as he sang "Kansas City," a song he just recently finished writing entitled "Losing You" and Johnny Cash's "Ring Of Fire."
Annie Little was on hand this evening and got a hand as she sang "Let Me Be There" and Johnny Cash's "Remember Me I'm The One Who Loves You" while Scott Gilmore got the line dancers moving shortly before break with "Johnny B. Goode." Bill McFalt also popped in to sing a great oldie, "I Overlooked An Orchid" and Ron Fine, who we love to hear sing these great old country standards did an incredible job with "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I," the Waylon/Jesse classsic "Storms Never Last" and closed tonight's festivities with the Hank Williams gospel number "House Of Gold." (Below) Ron Fine entertains the crowd with another classic number
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Thursday, July 8, 2010
JULY 6, 2010
BK LOUNGE
After missing last week's show at the BK Lounge, it seems I am having trouble catching up on things. We had a good enthusiastic crowd as usual at the Lounge. Everyone was in the mood for good country music as the band stepped to the stage.
The below reprinted from MO-KAN Opry.com with the permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins. Thanks again Jean and Roger
A big crowd was on hand once again as David Purcell began tonight's festivities with a Buck Owen's favorite "Together Again" followed by "Help Me Make It Through The Night." A bit later, David returned to sing a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star," a Willie sound-alike of "Blue Eyes Cryin In The Rain," "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away" and Merle Haggard's "It's Not Love But It's Not Bad." Multi-talented Gary Bichelmeyer himself was up next with Gene Watson's "Paper Rosie," Johnny Cash's "Sunday Morning Coming Down," "Kansas City" and somewhat later a brand-new song he recently composed about one of Nashville's landmarks, "Blue Bird Cafe." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone got the feet shufflin' with "Sitting On Top Of The World" before Gordon returned to sing "Red Necks, White Socks & Blue Ribbon Beer. Mary Bichelmeyer used her smooth, velvety voice to sing a couple of crowd favorites herself tonight with "Tennessee Waltz" and "House Of The Rising Sun." We missed Larry Dean the first half tonight, but he opened the second half with Travis Tritt's "Living On Borrowed Time" and Alan Jackson's "I'm A Little Bluer Than That." Good stuff!
Annie Little always sings a great song and tonight she delighted the folks with "Just In Case," "Precious Lord Take My Hand," "Let's All Go Down To The River" and another Garry B. song, "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind" before Scott Gilmore excited the line dancers as he stepped behind the mike to sing "Johnny B. Goode." We were so glad to see Sandy Davidson who used to own and operate the Paola (KS) Opry drop in with friend Chuck Parcher tonight and sure enjoyed hearing Sandy sing "Let Me Be There," Bill Anderson's "Once A Day," "Silver Threads & Golden Needles" and Connie Smith's "Baptism Of Jesse Taylor." Chuck showed he's certainly no slouch behind the mike as well singing Ray Price's "Crazy Arms," Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings" and closing the festivities tonight with "Don't You Ever Get Tired Of Hurting Me." (Below) Sandy Davidson & Chuck Parcher visit with us after tonight's session
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BK LOUNGE
After missing last week's show at the BK Lounge, it seems I am having trouble catching up on things. We had a good enthusiastic crowd as usual at the Lounge. Everyone was in the mood for good country music as the band stepped to the stage.
The below reprinted from MO-KAN Opry.com with the permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins. Thanks again Jean and Roger
A big crowd was on hand once again as David Purcell began tonight's festivities with a Buck Owen's favorite "Together Again" followed by "Help Me Make It Through The Night." A bit later, David returned to sing a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star," a Willie sound-alike of "Blue Eyes Cryin In The Rain," "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away" and Merle Haggard's "It's Not Love But It's Not Bad." Multi-talented Gary Bichelmeyer himself was up next with Gene Watson's "Paper Rosie," Johnny Cash's "Sunday Morning Coming Down," "Kansas City" and somewhat later a brand-new song he recently composed about one of Nashville's landmarks, "Blue Bird Cafe." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone got the feet shufflin' with "Sitting On Top Of The World" before Gordon returned to sing "Red Necks, White Socks & Blue Ribbon Beer. Mary Bichelmeyer used her smooth, velvety voice to sing a couple of crowd favorites herself tonight with "Tennessee Waltz" and "House Of The Rising Sun." We missed Larry Dean the first half tonight, but he opened the second half with Travis Tritt's "Living On Borrowed Time" and Alan Jackson's "I'm A Little Bluer Than That." Good stuff!
Annie Little always sings a great song and tonight she delighted the folks with "Just In Case," "Precious Lord Take My Hand," "Let's All Go Down To The River" and another Garry B. song, "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind" before Scott Gilmore excited the line dancers as he stepped behind the mike to sing "Johnny B. Goode." We were so glad to see Sandy Davidson who used to own and operate the Paola (KS) Opry drop in with friend Chuck Parcher tonight and sure enjoyed hearing Sandy sing "Let Me Be There," Bill Anderson's "Once A Day," "Silver Threads & Golden Needles" and Connie Smith's "Baptism Of Jesse Taylor." Chuck showed he's certainly no slouch behind the mike as well singing Ray Price's "Crazy Arms," Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings" and closing the festivities tonight with "Don't You Ever Get Tired Of Hurting Me." (Below) Sandy Davidson & Chuck Parcher visit with us after tonight's session
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Wednesday, July 7, 2010
JULY 4, 2010
AMERICAN LEGION
The food was already being served when we arrived at the American Legion Hall to begin setting up for our 3:00PM show. There was a grill going on the patio and the hamburgers and hotdogs were rolling off. Some of us were tempted to skip the sound check and get some of the wonderful smelling food instead.
At 3:00PM a capacity crowd filled the large hall. As soon as the music started the floor filled with dancers. For the next 3 or 4 hours the large, enthusiastic group danced and ate to their hearts content. I don't know if they enjoyed the food or the music most. I know the band really enjoyed the wonderful response they got for their efforts on this Sunday afternoon.
The band was in fine form; performing country and rock & roll songs steadily. We were without our fiddle player who could not join us because of a previous engagement in Illinois. He was ably replaced by Kurt Shoemaker, a fantastic steel guitar player who hails from Ionia Kansas. Kurt has played steel guitar in country music star Martina McBride's band. He is also a frequent Nashville recording session participant. It was a great pleasure and honor to have this outstanding musician join us.
We certainly look forward to another show at the American Legion located at 7500 West 75th Street in Overland Park Ks. Please watch this web site for announcements
regarding upcoming Stranger Creek Band shows. Also, join us every Tuesday evening at 6:30 at the BK (Burger King) Lounge located at 95th and Quivira in Lenexa Kansas.
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AMERICAN LEGION
The food was already being served when we arrived at the American Legion Hall to begin setting up for our 3:00PM show. There was a grill going on the patio and the hamburgers and hotdogs were rolling off. Some of us were tempted to skip the sound check and get some of the wonderful smelling food instead.
At 3:00PM a capacity crowd filled the large hall. As soon as the music started the floor filled with dancers. For the next 3 or 4 hours the large, enthusiastic group danced and ate to their hearts content. I don't know if they enjoyed the food or the music most. I know the band really enjoyed the wonderful response they got for their efforts on this Sunday afternoon.
The band was in fine form; performing country and rock & roll songs steadily. We were without our fiddle player who could not join us because of a previous engagement in Illinois. He was ably replaced by Kurt Shoemaker, a fantastic steel guitar player who hails from Ionia Kansas. Kurt has played steel guitar in country music star Martina McBride's band. He is also a frequent Nashville recording session participant. It was a great pleasure and honor to have this outstanding musician join us.
We certainly look forward to another show at the American Legion located at 7500 West 75th Street in Overland Park Ks. Please watch this web site for announcements
regarding upcoming Stranger Creek Band shows. Also, join us every Tuesday evening at 6:30 at the BK (Burger King) Lounge located at 95th and Quivira in Lenexa Kansas.
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