As master-fiddler Larry Ellis and the rest of the Big Creek band, including Kevin Hoff on drums, Ted Cline on bass and Mike Campbell on banjo/guitar opened the show with "The Rocker Arm Reel," Big Creek's owner, operator & emcee Dennis Dittemore welcomed everyone to tonight's gala event with "The Christmas Polka."  Debbie Martin (or Debbie Erikson if you're a KFKF listener) continued the holiday theme, singing "Winter Wonderland" and "Do You See What I See," beautifully while maestro Phil HIlton did an incredible job with "Jingle Bells" and "Chariots Of Fire."  Cindy Dittemore did a spectactular job herself here tonight as she sang "All I Want For Christmas Is You," joined Debbie on "Jingle Bell Rock" then returned later with Amy Grant's "Tennessee Christmas."  It's always a gas to see and hear Mike Campbell play banjo (and guitar) and tonight he got the feet shufflin' with "Raw Hide," "Dear Old Dixie" and "Hee Haw Junction" with Larry Ellis and the band.  Jim Lower is one of the finest lead guitar players we've heard and tonight he treated the crowd to some great instrumental work as he played "Faded Love" and "Frankie & Johnnie."  Santa himself made a personal appearance here tonight, conveniently arriving right at intermission with sacks of candy and goodies for all the "children" in the audience!

We always enjoy hearing Kevin & Ted Cline sing that good 'ol classic country music and tonight they began with a Buck Owens' tribute with Kevin singing "Love's Gonna Live Here Again" and "Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy" and Ted, "I'll Go To Church Again With Momma."  Returing later Ted was to sing Mel Street's "Big Diamonds" and Johnny Rodriquez's "Love Put A Song In My Heart"  while Kevin sang Willie Nelson's "Pretty Paper" (Ray Benson told us once that Willie saw a man with no legs on a skateboard in San Antonio selling pencils, envelopes & paper and it inspired this song) and Ronnie Milsap's "Back On My Mind Again."  This is the second time we have seen Tracy Allison from Freeman, MO perform and again we are very impressed with this young lady's natural abilities and presence.  Among her selections tonight were Suzy Bogguss' "Two Step Around The Christmas Tree," Johnny Cash's "I Still Miss Someone," "Someday Soon" (we saw Ann-Margaret do this at Andy Williams' theatre in Branson years ago) and Alan Jackson's "The Angels Cried."

Our pal Larry Smith is always a big hit here at Big Creek whenever he performs and tonight he certainly showed why as he started things off with a Moe Bandy hit "Too Old To Die Young" followed by Merle Haggard's "If We Make It Through December" and a seasonal tune written by Larry himself entitled "Put Christ Back In Christmas."  Larry returned the second half with the Johnny Russell written, Gene Watson performed "Got No Reason Now For Going Home," a request for a just-retired friend, Johnny Paycheck's "Take This Job And Shove It," George Jones' "She Thinks I Still Care" and the moving "I Was There."  Dennis closed the evening, reminding everyone what Christmas is truly about with "Oh, Holy Night" and Larry Ellis and the band played "2 O'Clock In The Morning" as the curtain closed.  (Below)  top - Cindy & Dennis visit Santa  middle - Debbie gives Santa her wish list (and a hug!)  bottom - Wonder what Larry Smith's gonna get from Santa?

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 12:01 AM CST

Updated: Tuesday, 22 December 2009 12:00 AM CST

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A big crowd of bluegrass watchers and jammers decended on the Northcross United Methodist Church tonight for the monthly club meeting and stage show of the Heart Of American Bluegrass & Oldtime Music group or H.A.B.O.T. as it is commonly called.  President Mary Eddings welcomed everyone to tonight's show and introduced Ruth Graham & June Smitha who opened tonight's show with "Jesus & Me" and Christmas.  What a pleasant surprise to see our friend John Lowe from Cameron, MO drop in tonight and sing "Don't Be Angry" and Hank Jr.'s "'Leven Roses" for the appreciative audience.  John's Take Five Band will be performing every 2nd & 4th Sundays from 2-5 PM at the Plattsburg 4H building (we plan on being there January 10th).  Mattie Radabaugh did a swell job singing Loretta's "Coal Miner's Daughter" and "Walking My Lord Up Calvery Hill" and Jean Bartee got a big hand as she sang "Johnny & Sally" and "Baby Girl."  The "house band" which accompanied these artist was composed of Cotton Sanders on fiddle (he made it sing like a bird as he played 'Listen To The Mockingbird), Irvin Martin on guitar ("Too Old To Die Young") and Walt Weigand, also on guitar ("Silent Night").

Tonight's first group, Liberty Highway are certainly no strangers to us, either individually or collectively as they have played together for the past 4 years and have been part of HABOT as individuals since we began attending meetings here.  Composed of Chris Adkins on banjo, Ted Huff on guitar, Lynn Peeples on bass, the newest addition to the group, Billy Sprouse and of course the incomparable Jim Downs on mandolin, the band kicked off tonights set with Jim singing "Nine Pound Hammer" followed by "Hills Of West Virginia," "Old Ship Of Zion," "Trains Are The Only Way To Fly," "Tune Of A Twenty Dollar Bill," "Black Diamond Coal," Hallelujah I'm Ready" and an instrumental, "Doc's Breakdown."  Jim and the boys continued with "Waiting At The Gate," a song about the late Bill Monroe, Del McCoury's "Vincent Black Lightning 1952," "Three Men On A Mountain" and one of our favorite bluegrass tunes, Jimmy Martin's "Sunny Side Of The Mountain."

We saw this next group of young musicians who call themselves Copper Creek perform last month at KCABMC and were quite impressed.  If this is the future of bluegrass music then rest assured it will be in good hands.  With Josh Musik on guitar, Nathan Hawkins on banjo, Bethany Musik on mandolin, Rachael Musik on rhythm guitar, Ellie Asher on fiddle, Lea Asher, bass, Daniel Hawkins on mandolin and Sara Musik on fiddle, they played some old-time favorites with some clever improvisations on their part.  Beginning with "Cotton Eyed Joe," it was "Red Wing," "Black Eyed Susie," "Old Time Religion," "Temperance Reel," "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" and "Faded Love."  "Are You Washed In The Blood," was followed by "Y'all Come," "Old Joe Clark," "Down Yonder," "There Is A Time," "The Banjo And The Holler," a medley of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken/I'll Fly Away," "Orange Blossom Special" and "Go Tell It On The Mountain."  Closing the set, all the ladies blended their voices beautifully on "Winter Wonderland." 

It's always such a privledge and a pleasure to see and listen to tonight's third group -- the Hootin' Annies perform.  With Karla Campbell on bass, Patti Nance on dobro, Stephanie Hope on Fiddle, Mary Bliefnick on banjo and Cynthia McKechnie on guitar, this group has won almost every prestigious bluegrass group award they have set out to conquor.  Patti began tonight's set with "Preachin'-Prayin'" and later it was Buck Owens' "Santa Looks A Lot Like Daddy" while Mary got a big hand for "Paint The Town" and "Banjo Pickin' Girl."  Stephanie led the group with voice and fiddle on "Down The Old Plank Road" and "Jingle Bells" while Cynthia (or Blondie, if you prefer) did a marvelous job with "Winter's Come And Gone."  Karla told the musical story of "He Goes To Church On Sundays Now" followed by "Ain't Takin You Back," "Santa Baby," "Oh Christmas Tree" and by request the ever popular "Automobile Song" or "MMMMMotor Vehicle."

Mary Eddings wished everyone Happy Holidays and invited one and all to return in January.  HABOT meets the third Friday of each month September thru April. MAKE HABOT A HABIT!!  (Below) top - The Hootin Annies  middle - Copper Creek  bottom - Liberty Highway

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 12:01 AM CST

Updated: Saturday, 19 December 2009 1:13 PM CST

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Carl Butler's Gospel Lounge is held in a small 2-room area adjacent to the main indoor stage at Knuckleheads every Wednesday evening and features a super band composed of Carl Butler on lead guitar & vocals, John Nichols, keyboards/organ & vocals, Dale Zea on drums, Frank Infranca on bass & George Lamp on keyboards.  John kicked things off tonight with "Pass Me Not" then backed Carl as he sang "Ancient Of Days" and then returned to sing the Bee Gees' "Words."  Carl & John teamed up to do a Willie & Waylon classic, "Good Hearted Woman" and before introducing tonight's guest artist, Carl sang the gospel number "Your Name Is Like Honey" to the delight of tonight's crowd.

It has been awhile since we have seen Pat Pierce and enjoyed his great keyboard playing and vocals, we believe it must have been at Annie's Country Jubilee back in the summer sometime.  It was really an awesome sound here tonight with the three keyboard artists playing off one another.  Pat got the joint shakin' as he got right into Asleep At The Wheel's (he swears that group was named after Vanna White) "Boogie Back To Texas."  Next up was Rufus Thomas' "Walkin' The Dog," an instrumental - "Mercy Mercy," Ray Charles' "What I Say," Floyd Cramer's "Last Date" and a super upbeat version of "Misty."  It was certainly a pleasure seeing Pat again and meeting his daughter Sasha.  He's a great entertainer.

Pastor Carl had a short but sweet Christmas message tonight.  He encouraged us to remember that no matter what we give, it can never eclipse what God gave to us.....and that should be the spirit of Christmas.  Material gifts soon disappear, the best gift we can possibly give is a gift of ourselves.  He remarked that his mother has had some extremely serious health issues recently and this Christmas he plans on giving her something extra special........spending some quality time with her. Amen.  It was also great having Pat Irvin drop in tonight and enjoy the festivities.  (Below) Pat Pierce boogies back to Texas with help from Carl Butler (r)

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 11:07 PM CST

Updated: Saturday, 26 December 2009 10:54 PM CST

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Larry Dean kicked off tonight's festivities with the cheery Roy Orbison tune, "Pretty Paper" and Merle Haggard's "If We Make It Thru December."  He was to return later with "Back To Louisiana," Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin Boogie" and Jerry Lee's "All Shook Up."  Lead guitar Gordon Riley led the band, including drummer John Malone on instrumentals "Birth Of The Blues," "Buckaroo" and "The Bells Of St. Mary."  Gordon also received a big hand as he picked & sang Hank Thompson's "Six Pack To Go."  "Magnanimous" Marvin Bredemeier, who fiddles each and every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie, KS, played the beautiful "Waltz You Saved For Me," "Rubber Dolly," sang the "She's Too Fat For Me Polka" (what was that all about?), Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues" and our favorite fiddle tune "Ragtime Annie."  The group's resident bass player Mary Bichelmeyer was up next and she did a wonderful job tonight singing Hank Sr.'s "I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)," "I'll Be Home For Christmas," Patsy Cline's "Crazy Dreams," and Ray Price's "Crazy Arms." 

Garry Bichelmeyer, Mary's husband and one of the cleverest song writers you'll ever run  into, at Gordon Riley's suggestion, dedicated the evening's performance to Tiger Woods, who as everyone is aware of, has been getting a lot of flack in the news lately.  For the occassion Garry wrote and performed a clever parody of the old Buck Owens hit, "Tiger By The Tail" entitled "She's Got Ol' Tiger By The Tail" which had the audience rolling in the aisles.  This little charmer was followed by an actual song released some years ago by John Denver, "Please Daddy Don't Get Drunk This Christmas."  Garry returned after break with Krisofferson's "Sunday Morning Coming Down" and with Mary sang the Johnny Cash/June Carter smash "Ring Of Fire."  We always get such a kick when Art Covey is here to play his mandolin and sing and tonight he picked three good 'uns: "Deep Water," "The Kentucky Waltz" and "Hobo's Lament."

We brought along some lyrics to a song we heard Saturday Night, a tune sung by Vince Gill - "My Name Is Christmas Carol" and Scott Gilmore who with wife Lisa almost always brings those cute little redheaded kids (Matthew & Kylie) of theirs in to hear the band play, volunteered and did a bang-up job singing this great little Christmas story in song.  We were thrilled to see Annie Little back tonight and she used her beautiful voice the first half to sing "Winter Wonderland" and "Let It Snow."   She also closed the evening out with "A Very Special Grace." (Below)  Scott Gilmore  sings "My Name Is Christmas Carol" for the audience's enjoyment

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 10:45 PM CST

Updated: Tuesday, 15 December 2009 11:59 PM CST

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Although the Middle Creek Theatre has officially closed it's doors for the season (will reopen March 13, 2010), Bill & Brenda Harris decided to hold this special event tonight to help out a friend, Carl Butler who is Middle Creek's resident bass player and is a great all-round entertainer, organizes & emcees the Gospel Lounge held each Wednesday night at Knuckleheads and, along with wife Sharon, ministers the New Song Christian Fellowship located in KC's Northland each Sunday.  Carl and his family have undergone tremendous financial strains recently due to the health issues faced by his mother Bernice, who was just released from the hospital after suffering a recent heart attack.  The outpouring of love and support for Carl and family by not only the many musicians who contributed their time and talent here this evening, but the big crowd of country music lovers who chose to come out and support Carl and his family was heartwarming to say the least. 

Emcee and lead guitar Elijah Chastain welcomed everyone and began the evening's entertainment with a Skip Ewing song, "My Name Is Christmas Carol," then introduced one of Middle Creek's three great female singers, Barbara Walker and her husband R. J.  Barbara began the set with Sara Evans' "Walk Out Backwards" and Crystal Gayle's "Why Have You Left The One You Left Me For" and was accompanied by R. J. on a Gordon Lightfoot tune, "Song For A Winter's Night."  R. J. did a terrific job himself as he played and sang George Strait's "Troubador" for the enthusastic crowd.  It's been quite a spell since we've had the pleasure of seeing and listening to Andy Lindberg sing, but we'll always remember what an outstanding vocalist he is and tonight he wowed this crowd with a couple of Vince Gill chartbusters, "Don't Let Our Love Start Slippin' Away," "Pocket Full Of Gold" and Roy Orbison's "Pretty Woman."  Angie Larson, who not only has played keyboard here for many years, but is an outstanding vocalist in her own right and tonight, sporting a brand-spanking new rhinestone-studded belt, looked as good as she sounded as she sang "How Can I Forget" and Dottie West's "Don't Touch Me."  It's always such a pleasure to see A. J. Cronk (he plays with Pat Irvin as part of Tater & the Gravy Train each Wednesday night at Harry's Country Club.  They are off this month, but will return in January) and tonight he did a bang-up job picking and singing Merle's "Working Man Blues" and Sawyer Brown's "Keep Your Hands To Yourself" (he also did a verse John Anderson style).  Jamie Gumm-Ogle's vocal qualities are almost legendary and tonight she sang both Connie Smith's "Ain't Had No Lovin'" and Carrie Underwood's "I Told You So" beautifully before introducing the man himself, Carl Butler.  Carl sped things up a bit with "Louisiana Saturday Night" then dedicated to his mother, her favorite gospel number "Look For Me."  Middle Creek's outstanding steel guitar player, Bobby DeMoss closed the first half with "Steel Guitar Rag."

Elijah kicked off the second half with a Johnny Bush tune "What A Way To Live," then it was an awesome instrumental of Ray Stevens' "Misty" before introducing good friend Buddy Ring.  Buddy got a big audience response as he picked and sang a Charlie Louvin classic "Think I'll Go Somewhere & Cry Myself To Sleep" and Ray Price's "Sweet Memories."   John Nichols, who, with Carl, plays a big part in the success of the Gospel Lounge each Wednesday night sang "You Are My Sunshine" and with Carl & Angie providing the harmony, Merle Haggard's "Natural High."  Brad Meadows showed his prowess behind the drums with a great job of "Wipeout" and then gave the appreciative audience a taste of his vocal abilities, singing Eric Clapton's "Wonderful Tonight."  Mike Bowman, whose long-awaited CD has just been released, dropped in tonight as well and brought down the house with George Jones' "The Race Is On," Merle's "If We Make It Through December" and Webb Pierce's "There Stands The Glass."  We didn't have much of a chance to visit with Mike afterwards (he was busy signing CDs), but understand he will be at Big Creek New Year's Eve if you would like to purchase his new CD.

Barbara & R. J.'s 13 year-old daughter, Maddie Walker showed her keyboard skills, playing "Rockin Around The Christmas Tree" and then it was Barbara singing Dolly Parton's "Hard Candy Christmas," Angie's "Santa Claus Is Back In Town" and Jamie with "Oh Holy Night."  Mike Bowman returned to sing Ricky Skagg's "New Star Shining" before Carl & Jamie blended their voices beautifully on one of our favorite gospel numbers, "The Lighthouse."  The whole gang including Maddie & Jake Walker and Emma & Aidan Ogle closed this stupendous evening with "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer," "Jingle Bells" and "We Wish You A Merry Christmas."  Over $1100 was raised for Carl's family here tonight, but if you couldn't make it and would like to contribute it would be very much appreciated.  Please mail those contributions to:  Carl Butler, 600 NE 101st St., Kansas City, MO 64155.  Although Middle Creek will be closed for the next couple of months plus, other events will be held at the theatre and several suprises are planned for next season.  For more information check out their website at: http://www.rutladeroutpost.com/opry.htm  (Below) top - Rev. Carl Butler sings "Look For Me" center - Emcee Elijah Chastain sings "What A Way To Live" bottom - Mike Bowman sings "If We Make It Through December"

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 12:01 AM CST

Updated: Sunday, 13 December 2009 6:10 PM CST

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President Byron Jones welcomed everyone to the December edition of the Kansas City Area Bluegrass Music Club and with the help of treasurer Jim Long disposed of a minimum of club business and it was on with the music!  However Byron noted that it had been necessary for one of tonight's bands, Misty Mountain Revival to cancel as one of their members, Gary Gray (who also plays banjo with the Great White Possum String Co.) was involved in a horrific accident a couple of days ago which resulted the severing of fingers on his left hand.  Please join us in keeping Gary and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Although Blue Monday's members have only been playing together for a couple of years now, individual members have many years of experience in bluegrass music and most belong to other groups as well.  Consisting of Jim McGreevy - banjo/vocals, Al Hellebuyck - guitar/vocals, Fred Owings - guitar/vocals, Lee Glaze - guitar/vocals, Dick Harris, mandolin/vocals, Larry Cook, bass and joining them tonight, Rob Collins, mandolin.  Lee kicked off the set with "Look For Me" with Jim & Rob providing the harmony and returned later with "Millionaire" and "Lonesome Song."  Next Fred was to tell us all about that "Blue Ridge Mountain Girl" and returned with "Oh I Want To See Him" and "This World Is Not My Home."  We always enjoy hearing Al Hellebuyck sing, ever since we first saw him perform at the Thursday Night Opry with Sugar Ridge several years ago.  Tonight he did a marvelous job with "Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore," "More Than A Name On A Wall" (a colossal hit for the Statlers) and "East Of The Blue Ridge."  Dick must have brought his own cheering section as he got a big hand as he sang "On The Wings Of Angels," "Keep The Candles Burning" and "Going Back To The Blue Ridge Mountains."  (Could be he's just that good, too!)  Jim McGreevy as well as singing some great harmony and playing super banjo here tonight, led the guys on an old bluegrass instrumental, "Arab Bounce," then joined Rob Collins and the rest on "Tombstone Junction."  In closing, Lee led the band and audience in a couple of verses of "Silent Night" to commemorate the upcoming Christmas Holiday. 

What a gas it was to see Mark & Mary Franzke again here tonight!  We saw this talented couple from Prairie Village, KS here several weeks ago and definately appreciate the effort it takes to manuver that big motorized wheel chair of Mary's down to the basement and to the foot of the stage, just so they might perform for us.  They are indeed a treat to see and listen to, he with his terrific musicianship(guitar, both flattop & finger picking styles, mandolin, banjo, vocals and who knows what else?) and she with her soft melodious voice.  Mark was once a member of Prairie Fire and he and Mary have sang together for 33 years, 31 of those years as husband and wife.  Among the numbers they chose tonight were "I'll Stay Around," "Don't Fix Up The Doghouse Cause This Old Dog Is Gone," "Dark As The Night," "I'm Workin On A Buildin' For My Lord," "Who Will Watch The Home Place," "Please Don't Wake Me Tonight While I'm Sleepin," "Make Me A Pallet On Your Floor" and a song written by Mark and played on Public Radio, "The Car Buyer's Lament."  Next up was Mary Harris whom Byron introduced as the "Rustic Lady."  Mary played a simply beautiful autoharp, an instrument that was played by Mother Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family some years ago but is rarely heard of these days.  Beginning with the "Cheat River Reel," it was "Golden Slippers," "Red Wing" (vocals as well) and our favorite fiddle tune - now autoharp as well - "Ragtime Annie."

The Bluegrass Karaoke group is always one that Byron puts together, sometimes at the last minute but one that always brags of top-flight musicians and never fails to excite and entertain the audience.  Tonight on rhythm & vocals was Byron Jones, lead guitar - Kevin Jones, bass - Jim Downs, , bass - Mark Franzke, mandolin - and on vocals - Chastity Jones.  Joining Byron, daughter-in-law Chastity, who has been part of Byron's Northtown Opry for the past 20 years, harmonized beautifully on "Columbus Stockade Blues" and the Porter/Dolly classic "Holdin' On To Nothin."  After Byron sang "One Of These Days," she was to return with Randy Travis' "Rise And Shine," "Hang Around" and Emmylou Harris' "Those Memories Of You," a bit later.  Hubby Kevin Jones also chose a Emmylou number, "One Of These Days" and an old bluegrass standard, "Little Cabin Home On The Hill" before joining Mark, Jim and the rest of the band on instrumentals "Salt Creek" and "Home Sweet Home."  Byron ended tonight's festivities by leading everyone in the hymn "I Saw The Light." (Below) top - Mark & Mary Franzke making sweet music together  bottom - Byron & Chastity Jones harmonize on Porter & Dolly's "Holdin' On To Nothin'."

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 10:01 PM CST

Updated: Saturday, 12 December 2009 1:51 PM CST

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Because of the threatening weather forecast, the crowd at the BK was much smaller than usual tonight.  However, a good number of patrons and musicians alike braved the elements and lousy driving conditions to enjoy playing, listening and dancing at least part of the night away.  As we arrived, emcee Larry Dean was just beginning to sing the seasonal Merle Haggard hit, "If We Make It Through December."  Next up was David Purcell, who we've really missed seeing of late, singing "Once In A Lifetime Thing" and the Garry Bichelmeyer-written "Northern Star."  David returned a bit later with the Jack Blanchard/Misty Morgan hit "Tennessee Birdwalk."  Lead guitar Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone played a couple of great instrumentals, "Jingle Bells" and "Harbor Lights" before Garry Bichelmeyer got a big hand as he sang "Kansas City," Elvis' "Blue Christmas" along with a couple of Credence Clearwater Revival hits, "Suzy Q" and "Have You Ever Seen The Rain."  Garry's wife and the group's bass player, Mary Bichelmeyer put her mellow pipes to good use as well tonight, singing Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do" and Loretta Lynn's "There He Goes."  Multi-talented Art Covey played the great bluegrass tune "Red Wing" on his mandolin, then picked and sang "Rebel Soldier" to the delight of the crowd.

It had began to snow about the time the music started tonight and for the safety of the musicians and customers alike, it was wisely decided to close a little earlier than usual.  Art Covey closed the evening with "Royal Telephone."  (Below) Larry Dean sings another seasonal favorite for the crowd, George Strait's "Christmas Cookies"

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 9:09 PM CST

Updated: Wednesday, 9 December 2009 8:13 AM CST

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As everyone who reads this blog regularly knows, we are always on the hunt for talented country singers and musicians to feature and write about on these pages.  Tonight, Annie featured not just one, but two extremely gifted young people who impressed everyone who heard them.  First-timer Sarah Burton from Ridgeway, MO (near Bethany) seemingly inherited her gift of music from her mother Linda Burton who, by the way, played bass and sang harmony on Annie Dunavin's 2nd CD!  Although we had previously heard Kevin Lee sing a couple of songs, we gained a whole new respect for his vocal abilities here tonight.  He has tremendous voice control, alternating between soft, melodic love songs and high energy upbeat numbers without missing a beat and has an outstanding vocal range.  And both of these young people have that magic ingredient: they leave the stage with the audience yelling for more!

Tonight's show began in the normal fashion with Annie Dunavin welcoming everyone with a hearty "Come On In!"  She returned later with "Come On Time," Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels," "I'll Be Your Stepping Stone" and Patsy Cline's "I Don't Wanna."  David George, Annie's musical director and lead guitar showed his vocal talents as he sang Merle Haggard's "Ramblin' Fever," Dave Dudley's "Truck Driving Man" and later played a Christmas medley of "Away In The Manger/Joy To The World" on his flattop guitar.  Cute little Haylie Walter showed she's 100% country as she sang Tanya Tucker's "Wine Me Up," George Jones' "You're Still On My Mind," Leona Williams' "Don't Sing Me No Songs About Texas" and Wanda Jackson's "Hard Hearted Woman."  Emcee and possessor of one of this area' finest male voices, Jim Winters stepped front and center and sang Waylon's "Only Daddy (That'll Walk The Line)," Hank Sr.'s "Cold Cold Heart," Leroy Van Dyke's "Walk On By" and George Strait's "I Just Wanna Dance With You."  Pretty Ronni Ward put her beautiful voice to work, much to the audience's delight as she sang Patty Loveless' "Here I Am," Juice Newton's "Queen Of Hearts" and later "Blue Side Of Town" and Merle's "Somewhere Between."

There was some great instrumental work as well here tonight with Fred Uzzell playing "The Yellow Bird" on the steel guitar and joining David George on flattop guitar, Marvin Bredemeier on fiddle and he on the dobro playing an old bluegrass standard, "Black Mountain Rag."  When one didn't think it could get any better, here comes Marvin with our favorite fiddle tune, "Ragtime Annie," drummer Steve Straub putting his marvelous voice to work on Merle's "Big City" and bass player Ted Ward who got a big hand as he sang "This Is Me Missing You."  A big round of applause brought Sarah Burton back to the mike after she sang Patsy's "I Love You Honey" and an old standard most recently revamped by Taylor Swift, "You Belong To Me." For her encore, she chose Leroy Van Dyke's other chart-topper "The Auctioneer."  Returning the second half, it was "Unchained Melody," Lynn Anderson's "Rose Garden" and Patsy Montana's "Cowboy's Sweetheart."  Also getting a big nod of approval from the audience, Kevin Lee sounded great singing George Strait's "The Fireman," "It's Your Love" (a duet with Haylie Walter), Garth's "The Dance" and later Hag's "Swinging Doors" and "Mama Tried."  Kevin finished his set with John Conlee's "Rose Colored Glasses."  Both of these young artists are wonderful to listen to and we suggest if you missed them this trip, try and catch them next time!

Annie Dunavin closed the evening, dedicating a beautiful gospel number, "Wayfaring Stranger" to Carol Norman, who used to sit just behind us a few rows and recently lost her battle with cancer.  Please keep Carol's family & friends in your prayers.  (Below) Backstage with Jim Winters (c), Sarah Burton (l) and Kevin Lee (r)

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 8:36 AM CST

Updated: Sunday, 6 December 2009 3:55 PM CST

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The pride of Westline, MO, the Westline Jamboree is held every other Wednesday night at the community center in this quaint little burg, located a few miles east of Louisburg, KS.  As we've mentioned in previous articles, there is never an admission charge and pies, cakes and other goodies are furnished at intermission.  Coffee cans are on the tables for those that care to contribute.  Jess Richardson, who emcees and headlines the show, started the Jamboree five years ago with the help of band members and locals.  Today, hardly a show goes by that doesn't entertain a packed house.

After welcoming everyone to tonight's show (No. 115), Jess opened the festivities with Mickey Gilley's "Roomful Of Roses," Hank Williams' "Honky Tonk Blues," Charlie Louvin's "I Don't Love You Anymore" and Stonewall Jackson's "Smoke Along The Tracks" and then introduced the band:  Buddy Ford plays lead guitar & mandolin, Johnny Goddard, rhythm & vocals, Chris Renner, keyboards & vocals, Jack Ford, bass guitar & vocals, George Renner, steel guitar, Eldon Adams and Floyd Harold, both on rhythm guitar.  Jess returned a bit later with Ray Charles' "I Got A Woman," "She's Just An Old Love Turned Memory," Moe Bandy's "Bandy The Rodeo Clown" and Merle Haggard's "Big City."  Jack Ford did a great job singing an old Ernest Tubb number, "You're The Only Good Thing" while Chris sounded super as he tickled those ivories and sang a song that Rhonda Vincent had a hit on recently, "I Sang Dixie" and Kris Krisofferson's "Me And Bobby McGee."  After John Goddard sang Merle's "Big River," Buddy Ford and the band closed the first half with a top-notch instrumental, "Freight Train." 

After everyone had taken the opportunity to sample the sweets & other goodies at the tables set up at the back, Jess began the second half with a song recorded by Willie Nelson & many others, "Ain't It Funny (How Time Slips Away)" followed by Elvis' "Santa Claus Is Back In Town" and by request - "Blue Christmas" twice!  The first version as Ernest Tubb performed it and the second as Elvis did it many years later!  Great stuff!  Jess was to return later with "I'm Making Plans," "Walkin' The Dog," Vince Gill's "Look At Us," Little Richard's "Good Golly Miss Molly," "Mind Your Own Business," George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today," "Truck Drivin' Man" and Ray Charles' "What I Say."  Jack Ford returned this half to sing "Who Left The Door Open To Heaven," Merle's "If I'd Left It Up To You" and "Nine Pound Hammer" before Johnny Goddard got a lot of laughs as he sang Homer & Jethro's "The Yeller Rose Of Texas" and "Smoke Smoke Smoke That Cigarette."  Buddy and the band played the old Buck Owens' band theme song, "Buckaroo" and Chris did an outstanding job singing and playing Gene Watson's "Farewell Party."

A pleasant surprise was tonight's guest artist, none other than Pat "Tater" Irvin who is taking the month of December off from his usual Wednesday night gig at Harry's Country Club in Kansas City's River Quay district.  Pat, by the way is Jess Richardson's nephew and is also Beth Irvin's nephew (aka Lizzie Lou, who we visited with just last night at the BK).  Pat began his set with a song especially written for his folks entitled "Mom & Dad," then it was Merle's "In My Next Life."  Pat returned later with a Billy Joe Shaver song, "I've Been To Georgia On A Fast Train," Krisofferson's "Why Me Lord" and another Merle classic, "Who'll Buy The Wine."  He then introduced the lady responsible for all his talent -- his mother Carol Irvin who did a marvelous job singing "Pick Me Up On Your Way Down."  We hated to see the evening end and we certainly won't let this much time lapse between visits, if we possibly can.  Jess urged everyone to return again soon and closed the evening with "I Saw The Light."  (Below) Pat "Tater" Irvin & Jess Richardson  

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 12:01 AM CST

Updated: Sunday, 6 December 2009 8:35 AM CST

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With the threat of an abrupt change in the weather looming, a myriad of country music dancers and listeners decended on the BK tonight, taking advantage of what might prove to be the last mild evening for quite a spell.  Arriving on time for a change, we secured a bite to eat and just as we sat back and began to enjoy our meal, Larry Dean opened tonight's session with a Vern Gosdin song, "Month Of Sundays" followed by "Playboy."  Somewhat later, for the line dancers, Larry was to sing a Glen Campbell tune, "Try A Little Kindness," Brooks & Dunn's "Boot Scootin' Boogie" and "That Just About Does It Don't It." 

Lead guitar Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including John Malone on drums did a dandy job with "Steel Guitar Rag," Chet Atkins' "Windy & Warm"  and a couple of seasonal tunes, "Jingle Bells" and "Silver Bells."  "Mighty" Marvin Brenemeier who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night played "The Summer Wind" while Larry Dean did the vocals, then it was "The Waltz You Saved For Me," "Ragtime Annie" (thanks, Marvin!) & "Maiden's Prayer."  Bass player Mary Bichelmeyer put her mild voice to work on Bob Dylan's "House Of The Rising Sun," the Judds' "Grandpa" and later, "Just A Closer Walk With Thee."  Husband Garry Bichelmeyer was in fine voice himself tonight as he sang a song made famous by Randy Travis, "He Walked On Water," joined Larry Dean on the Soggy Bottom Boys' "Man Of Constant Sorrow" and returned the second half with a couple of his self-written songs "Northern Star" and "I'm So Lonesome In The Saddle Since My Horse Died."  It's also always a treat to see and hear Art Covey sing and play that mandolin.  Tonight he played "Down Yonder" and sang and picked one of our favorite gospel numbers, "Stroll Across Heaven" while Annie Little used her amazing vocal talents to sing Patsy Cline's "I Love You Honey" and "Winter Wonderland."

What a nice surprise it was to see Beth Irvin and her husband Dave drop in for a visit tonight.  Beth is not only a great singer but does a great comedy routine as "Lizzy Lou" and has appeared at several oprys and other venues throughout the KC area.  Dave himself is a top notch musician, writer and arranger and tonight accompanied Beth with the rest of the band as she sang some audience favorites, "Your Cheating Heart," Patsy's "I Fall To Pieces" and "Chattanooga Shoeshine Boy."  Tonight's festivities ended with the audience joining the band singing "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."  (Below) Beth Irvin & husband Dave (l) entertain the crowd at the BK Lounge 12/1/09

Posted by hawkshaw5 at 9:50 PM CST

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