Clint Black is one of those good things in life that it was easy to recognize when it came along. Always a fan, I had never had the opportunity to see him live on stage. Hearing that he would be coming to the Turning Stone this year was a huge highlight, and one I knew I wanted to bring to the readers.
Growing up in the south you learn to appreciate the culture that surrounds you. It’s the driving force for everything they represent. Whether it’s culinary, historical, or musical, the culture becomes a part of who you are and how you think south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Times in the south seem as though they are in slow motion, or as they often joke, they just like to take their time. It’s this slow down, smell the roses attitude that keeps what’s important in life in perspective. This perspective also helps you to recognize and appreciate the good things in life when they come along.
Clint Black at The Turning Stone
Over the last 25 years, Clint has accumulated quite the playlist of hits (19 number one singles), shelves of awards (5 ACM’s, 1 AMA, 2 CMA’s), and carved out a name for himself in country music (member of Grand Ole Opry 1991). Clint’s traditional sound with a modern twist made him a crowd favorite since his first album Killing Time hit the airwaves back in 1989. Hitting number one with the songs first release, “A Better Man”, it was the first time in 14 years that a country musician had debuted and hit number one right out of the gate. That album went on to produce five top ten hits, with “A Better Man” and “Killing Time” taking spots one and two for best country songs for the year 1989. The CMA’s Horizon Award recipient in 1989, Clint continued his career over the next 25 years collecting hit after hit, the majority he penned himself. An accomplished songwriter, he continued in the music business establishing his own label, Equity Music Group, after he and wife, Lisa Hartman Black, welcomed their daughter Lily in 2001.
Clint Black at The Turning Stone
As Clint took the Showroom stage, it was his slowed down, back to basics acoustic sound that set the tone for the night, and told the story of what country music represents to him, and how he has become a representative in country music. As he sat there strumming the guitar, playing his harmonica, and singing to the crowd, the words and the melody resonated and transported you back to another time and place in country music. Still sporting his black cowboy hat and his charming smile, Clint reminisced about days gone by, musicians that inspired him, and paid homage through music to the basic country roots that motivated it all. He was simply amazing. His one on one rapport with the audience was genuine and really demonstrated his love of his music and sharing it with those lucky enough to sit and listen with him. Joined after the first few numbers by his road band, this show gave you a small taste of what you may experience on the stage at the Grand Ole Opry with the back woods Appalachian sound of the roots of country music, to a modern-day sound of country music with a full band twist. Clint Black, recognized with a star on the Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, is truly a country super star. With a non-stop touring schedule that hasn’t slowed down since his first release, it was certainly my pleasure to be able to catch his performance at The Turning Stone for our readers. Although it was my first Clint Black experience, it certainly won’t be my last.
We all have that one artist/group that no matter how many times you change out your playlist on your iPod, they always make the cut to the new playlist. Lonestar is that group for me. They have always been a favorite of mine, with an amazing 22 years in the business and celebrating their 20th Anniversary together as a group, I was extremely excited, and a tad nervous to be able to have a chance to do an interview with them at the Turning Stone Casino and Resort Showroom on their recent visit to Central New York.
Lonestar – Turning Stone
Kathy Stockbridge: Happy Anniversary you guys! Twenty years are amazing…what is that you guys credit as your secret to longevity?
Lonestar: Beer and pizza…restraining orders…arm wrestling…lots of things…sense of humor mostly.
KS: Exactly…think that’s it!! One of my favorite songs of yours is “I’m Already There”..tell me a little about the process of writing that, what it means to you, and how did it evolve?
LS: ( Richie McDonald) It evolved out of the lives we live on the road away from our families and being gone. We had been gone about six weeks and I called home one night, and our kids were little back then, Brett was four and that sweet little voice says “Daddy When You Coming Home?” and that’s where the expression came from. Ya know, it’s a song we live night after night and we dedicate it to the men and women in our military.
KS: Yes, the song evolved into a new meaning afterwards. It began as a song about your lives on the road and then after playing overseas for the military it took on a whole new meaning.
LS: The song came out in 2001 right before 9/11 and they spend a lot more time away from their families than we do and it just made a connection with their families while being away.
KS: It’s a beautiful song, true hit. Another favorite is “Front Porch Looking In” , one of my favorite videos.
LS: That was Trey Fanjoy I believe. She had done “Amazed” for us and “Smile” also for us. Great director in Nashville, she shot out just past Leiper’s Fork in Nashville at the time seemed like in the middle of nowhere …we were going “where in the heck are we”, now I live somewhat close to there so it doesn’t seem so far out there any more. Such as great video because it allowed us to be outstanding in our field…we really were out standing in a field…but then they had that awesome house they filmed all the family scenes and stuff with the carrot top and all..then downtown Nashville they built a façade of the same house and the people are looking through it and see us in the field and then we’re in the city..it was a pretty cool concept.
KS: You also did a best hits album where you did a cover of Marc Cohen’s “Walking in Memphis”. I absolutely love that song, …it’s along the same lines of your music…it’s heartfelt…talk t me a little about what made you choose that one?
LS: The first two years we were together we played clubs and bars for four or five nights a week, and so we had four hours of music to play and that was one of the songs we would play right from the beginning. After we got our record deal we stopped doing all the cover songs, but cut to a few years later and we’re in Memphis, TN getting ready to do a benefit for St. Jude’s down on Beale Street, so during our soundcheck we thought this would be a good time to do “Walking in Memphis” because we were right there on Beale…so we started doing it. One of the label guys that was there for the St. Jude’s show said ya’ll should record that. We started doing it in our live shows, and it just became something we wanted to put out.
KS: So you’ve done 20 years (as Michael whispers t me…22)..I mean 22 years of music, with hit after hit…is there any collaboration you would still like to do at this point in your careers?
LS: With other writers?
KS: Other writers, artists…you see a lot of inter mixing these days with rap and country and rock and country…did you do a Crossroads yet?
LS: We’ve never done a Crossroads…we talked about doing one with Matchbox 20 but we couldn’t schedule it.
KS: Oh…we need to do that.
LS: You need to make that happen Kathy!! Any of the people on these walls (as they point to the posters at the Turning Stone of all the great artists that have played there)…(sure wish I could arrange it for them..would love to see that)
KS: Okay..I’ll see what I can do!! Okay getting the sign that I need to wrap this up…do you guys mind doing my social speed round…a series of questions that have nothing to do with music and give insight into your lives as normal joes?
LS: Sure
KS: You are on the road and see this…you make the bus driver pull over.
LS: Lotta Burger!!! (in unison)
KS: If given the chance, your crew would say you are __________.
LS: AWESOME!!!!! ..fun…witty..incredibly handsome…incredibly talented…demanding…(and a few others I promised to edit out )
KS: What are you listening to on your iPod right now?
LS: New Tom Petty album…the new Black Keys…
KS: Most outrageous place you’ve played?
LS: The Gorge…it wasn’t outrageous but it was incredible….outrageous would be the air craft carrier…USS Truman in Ft. Lauderdale..it was cool.
Completing the interview, the guys took a moment to say hi to our readers and give their opinion on live music…
After such a fun interview with what obviously is a fun-loving group of guys, I couldn’t wait to see their live performance. With a mix of their Grammy award-winning hits and some new music on the set list, it was bound to be a stellar performance.
Opening with my personal favorites No News, Front Porch, and Mr. Mom, they came out of the gate strong. They were as personable with their audience as they had been with me, cracking jokes left and right. It was more than obvious to me why these four men had weathered the test of time. Not only were they amazing musicians, but they truly loved their audience and what they did.
It was their new music though that really struck a chord with me. They are the most amazing songwriters and composers. My favorite new song has to be “Just The Rain”. It is one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard. They write and compose the most beautiful ballads ever. They are so heartfelt. They say how we feel through music and words in a way that touches each of us as though they wrote the song personally for us. That is a gift. Writing catchy tunes is one thing, delivering heartfelt emotion, a whole different ballgame. It elevates them to a league all their own.
As they began singing “Walking In Memphis” I was super stoked. Marc Cohen’s song was done absolute justice. Some songs when covered are good, but not right for those doing the cover. That was not the case in this instance. Their soulful rendition nailed it.
As they closed the show with The Beatles “Get Back” they had the crowd on their feet dancing along and cheering for more as they left the stage. When they returned to the stage for the encore, Richie began to serenade the front table with their Grammy Award winning song, “Amazed”. It’s this personal touch that makes a really good show, a great show. It’s the interaction and connection of performer and audience that I look for when reviewing a show. A really great show makes that connection and makes their audience feel like they were part of the show.
Lonestar – Turning Stone
It was the final number though that really was the icing on the cake. They closed out their show with a mash-up of a rock medley that I have to say was the best closing numbers I’ve ever heard performed. With a mix of Pink Floyd’s, “Another Brick In the Wall” ZZ Top’s “Gimme All Your Lovin,” Thin Lizzy’s “Boy’s Are Back in Town” and finishing it out with Kiss’s “Rock and Roll All Night” they demonstrated to me why they are Grammy award-winning artists and performers, as they incited the crowd and left them on a musical high that no drug could ever achieve.
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Set List:
No News> Front Porch> Mr. Mom> If It Wasn’t For You> Coming Home> Mountains> Everything’s changed> Already There> Pretty Good Day> You Walked In> Tell Her> Just the Rain> Memphis Party All Day> What About Now> With Me> How Can She Be> Get Back/No News Reprise> Amaze> Rock Medley
Growing up in the 70’s and 80’s, the popular music of that time was an eclectic mix for certain. The politically driven folk type songs of the 60’s were being replaced with a fun mix of Motown disco and R&B, a new wave of synthesized pop, Southern and hard rock, a cross over at times from country radio and adult contemporary to the top 40, heavy metal and punk rock bands, and a taste of what we commonly refer to today as rap. During this time we also saw an influx of pop and rock from across the pond. These English artists brought to us some amazing music, and a culture all their own. Vinyl albums were purchased for their artwork, and listened to from start to finish introducing listeners to not only the popular music, but the B side which many times was as good if not better than those songs chosen for release by the record companies. It was a pleasure being able to grow up during this era and be open to listening to so many genres of music. Trying to pick just one favorite during this time period is near to impossible. However there are several favorites that come to mind, one being Asia. and their Gravitas Tour.
I can remember well the summer I wore out my first Asia album. It was the summer of 1982 and I was just getting ready to begin my senior year at GHS. This was their first album, and as Asia hit the charts, each single released climbed the charts with record speeds. It was one of those albums that you could listen to from start to finish with the first song being as awesome as the next. There was something about the arrangements of synthesizer and percussion, mixed with the greatest lyrics and strings that made this rock and roll, classic and timeless.
Asia – Turning Stone Showroom
I had a chance to speak with Geoff Downes from Asia prior the show about their longevity in the business, their newest album Gravitas, and touring in America. We spoke of how New York seems to be the point of origin each time they kick off a tour. They’ve played the Turning Stone several times now. We also spoke of the huge success of their initial album Asia, that earned them two Grammy nominations. They were so excited with how America embraced them and the wonderful memories that went along with their initial tour. Since that day they’ve had the opportunity to travel world wide sharing their music with their fans and building memories as they toured. The first album set the bar high and held to encourage them to continue in their unique sound over the course of the next 30+ years as they played together. Even as they worked on solo projects and collaborated with other bands, they found themselves reuniting and continuing to record album after album. In 2013 the stress of touring with two bands at the same time, lead Steve Howe to the decision to retire from Asia and dedicate 100% of his work time to Yes. John Wetton returned at that time, and they immediately began recording Gravitas. Asia continues to play to audiences all over the world, some new fans, and many tried and true fans. They enjoy bringing their music to everyone, and spoke of how appreciative they are to still be able to play to their fans night after night.
I spoke to Geoffe about Roger Dean. Roger Dean was asked originally to come up with the album art for their self-titled debut album. The unique dragon he designed seemed to epitomize everything they were trying to accomplish with their music and became a signature look. We agreed that people tend to buy the albums not only for the music but for the wonderful artwork that came on the exterior. Geoffe pointed out that although the artwork is still here on CDs, it’s not the full size effect they used to be able to give listeners along with the vinyl. What they used to be able to offer to the listener was an entire package of their music, an experience. So as one would listen to the album they could scour the album, look at the lyrics, and experience the entire album in a unique way. They continued to feature Roger’s artwork on album after album, personally one of my favorite things about this group. They know when they’ve got something right, and they just continue to do that. Geoff and I agreed we could have talked for hours about all the experiences they’ve had over the years, but I thanked him for sharing his time and hung up with even more anticipation for the show the next evening.
As Asia took the stage the following night, I couldn’t help feel an excitement seeing one of my all time favorite bands for the first time play hit after hit, and found myself still knowing all the words and all the notes that were coming next. Their unique sound of percussion, electric guitar, keyboards, organ, synthesizers, and vocals meld perfectly together to bring you the unique rock sound that sets them apart from other bands of the time. Their songs can be heard over and over again still today in television, movies, and this timelessness is what gives them music longevity.
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To watch them live was an experience. Geoff floored me with his ability to play his 9 piece keyboard rig simultaneously, while John Wetton and Carl Palmer hit the notes with such preciseness you wondered if it was live or Memorex. The newcomer Sam Coulson added an edge with his electric guitar and solos and proved to me that Asia will withstand the test of time with new life, new music, and new fans as time goes on. The new album they are touring with, Gravitas, means dignity, seriousness, or solemnity of manner. Although it has a few of these serious traits, I think once you give a listen, you will agree that it’s purely magic, and proof that great music is timeless.
Setlist: Sole Survivor>Wildest Dreams>Time Again>Valkyrie>Voice of America>The Smile Has Left Your Eyes>An Extraordinary Life>Days Like These>Go>Don’t Cry>Drum Solo>Only Time Will Tell>Open Your Eyes> Heat of the Moment
Sometimes you just know you are in the presence of greatness. I recently experienced this moment watching Kenny Wayne Shepherd and his band perform September 4, 2014 at the Turning Stone Showroom in Verona, N.Y . It was one of those moments you just automatically realize you’re in the presence of a legend; a history maker; a significant part of a musical phenomenon. His ability to entrance his audiences by drawing them in to each and every note and keep them on the edge of their seats is mesmerizing. Now add to the mix a collection of the most talented musicians of the same caliber, and you have the perfect storm.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd – Turning Stone
I had an opportunity prior to the show to speak with Kenny and ask him a few questions. A little tongue-tied and star struck, I found him kind, patient, accommodating, a true professional, and one of nicest and most humble individuals I’ve met. He made me feel right at ease immediately as we spoke about his career, his family, and his passion for music and cars.
Kathy Stockbridge – NYS Music: Hi Kenny…thank you so much for agreeing to speak with NYS Music. We really appreciate it. We’re extremely excited about you coming to the Turning Stone, and doing the show for us here in Central NY. I have to say I’m kinda late to the party as I just discovered you one day when I was watching tv. I believe it was a documentary on Palladia or AXS, and I must say I was amazed. You blew me away. So I am really excited to be covering the show tonight, and bringing the review and interview to our readers at NYS Music. Thank you so much.
….after discovering you, I was super impressed to learn that you are completely self-taught. Talk to me a little about how that came about.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd: Well I just play by ear. I don’t read music. I learned to play songs by sounding songs out literally one note at a time, and piecing these songs together literally from the first note to the last note, which was a tedious process.
KS: Yes, I imagine it was. When I read about the process…you listened to the music, and then turned off the tape and learned the notes…getting that one down pat and then turning on the tape to listen and learn the next one.. it gives me hope I will be able to pick up an instrument and teach myself how to play one day, that it can be done. Very impressive.
So after teaching yourself to do that, at the age of 13 you were discovered and got your first record deal? Talk to me a little about that.
KWS: When I when I was thirteen a friend of ours Bill Fordam, he was a record producer, saw me play down in New Orleans when I was a kid. He asked my dad have you ever thought about taking this kid into the studio and making a record? So that was when I was thirteen. And when I was 14, I actually went in and did my first demo recording which Bill produced. Then when I was 15 I put my band together and started doing live shows. Then when I was 16 I actually signed my record deal.
KS: You grew up in Lousiana, which is the heart and soul of jazz and blues and R&B. How much of that influenced what you play today and what you like to play?
KWS: I think a lot of it. I mean, I was exposed to all kinds of music because my dad was in radio, so he played a lot music on the radio, and we went to a lot of concerts. And being that I’m from Shreevport, its like is a perfect location. Shreevport has a rich musical heritage itself, but we would make road trips all the time and drive down to New Orleans to see live music; or go to Dallas, Texas and see live music; or Austin, Texas; or Memphis, Tennessee. We’re surrounded by all these music cities, in addition to all the great music being generated in my hometown as well. I had a pretty rich childhood.
KS: Do you find yourself being drawn to that genre, that type of music, or do you like to mix in different genres to make your own sound?
KWS: Well, my first real love musically is blues and traditional blues music, and that’s always the foundation of everything I create. But sometimes we’ll push our music into different directions mixing in rock. Makes it a little bit more contemporary and opens up more possiblities.
KS: Now you’ve collaborated with some of the most influential blues and r&b musicians in the world, and had the opportunity to open for huge name bands such as Aerosmith, Bob Dylon, Rolling Stones, I mean HUGE acts. ..What makes them stand out…the ones you’ve collaborated with, the ones you want to collaborate with in the future..what are you looking for this point and time in your career?
KWS: Well I don’t know. I’ve really gotten to play with just about everybody I could think I think I ever could have wanted to play with. So at this point I’m not really sitting around with a pen and paper thinking, hmm… who else I can go play with..Really Im just focusing on my own music and challenging myself musically every time we make a record, and every time we walk out on stage and perform no matter who we are playing with.
KS: So what is your creative process like right now…do you like to sit down and jam with the band, or do you put something together in your head and then go and record it, or how do you..?
KWS: All of the above…when we go and do sound checks every day before the shows, we start jamming on something totally spontaneous and that always helps come up with ideas. But then other times, it’s just me sitting at home with a guitar and I usually when I pick up a guitar more than five minutes, then usually something starts coming out, something new. Then what’s great is having the technology we have today..with my phone I have the ability to record my ideas on the spot so I don’t forget them. Since I don’t’ read music, it’s not like I can write them down on paper. So it’s a big help. But usually it generally starts with music, then lyrics, then vocals and such and matter of things like that come after.
KS: Well I read that this new music you are touring with, the Going Home album, was recorded in between gigs on an eleven day stint at home..how is this different from some of your previous albums, and what were you trying to achieve with this new album?
KWS: Well this album is really us paying tribute and showing our respect and appreciation for artists in particular that have influenced me over the years and their music. So it’s us doing our versions of their songs, and its kinda like the soundtrack of my childhood. These are all songs that I grew up listening to as a kid, that I cut my teeth learing how to play guitar listening to these songs. So it was a lot of fun. We did this album all live in the studio. We recorded it the old-fashioned way on two-inch tape, and we didn’t use any modern trickery like auto tune or anything like that. It’s really an honest album, recorded in the studio..the original recordings, and I think the end result is a really fun record to listen to. And it’s certainly going over well in the live shows.
KS: I am really looking forward to hearing it live. Now you have a really great band behind you, just tons and tons of talent up on that stage. How did you guys all come together? Did you collect them as you went along? Did you just find each other? You’ve been together now for a while haven’t you?
KWS: Well every situation is unique you know. I had a different guy sing lead vocals on my first album, and on the second album is when Noah and I met and he’s been in the band now seventeen years. Chris I met when I was 15 or 16 the first time I played down in Austin, Texas at Antones. I opened for this man, Bill Carter, who wrote a couple Stevie Ray Vaughn songs, and Chris was playing with him that night. That was the first time I met Chris. We became friends, and he played on my first record with me, and has played on almost every record since. He’s been in the touring band for 7 or 8 years now full-time which is great. And Riley? Chris recommended Riley, so that’s how we met Riley. And Tony? I met Tony because Tony was actually working at Fender Musical Instruments. He was an artist representative over there. He decided he wanted to get back into playing music so he joined the band.
KS: You have been credited in bringing back a new generation into jazz and blues. As a child growing up in an area where it was abundant, what appealed to you about that genre? How do you bring the audiences now that appeals to them today?
KWS: I think for me as a kid I identified with music because music is about as real as it gets. Straight from the heart. And when people play music from the heart, it’s like the most organic place it can happen. Age doesn’t play a factor. As far as our music, I think we have a fresh take on the music just by the way we interpret it. I think that people dig it.
KS: I think so too. Personally I think this generation is more open to a variety of music. More so than previous generations. I have a son that is 16, and he and his friends listen to anything and everything from early Beatles to rap and hip hop. I find I appreciate their openness to listen to all types of music, especially blues and jazz.
Youre a family man as well How do you do with juggling the touring , the recording, the family and the kids. How have you worked this part out?
KWS: That’s the challenge for me now. Tying to find the right balance. I have a commitment to my fans, and I certainly have a commitment to my family; and trying to be able to fulfill my obligations to both and never leave one or the other neglected. Sometimes my family will come out and travel with me on the road when it’s possible. Some of my kids are in school, so some times that’s not possible. It’s really just trying to look ahead when we book the tours, and scheduling my work, and make sure there’s also consideration taken into account for the family so that I can be there for them. And trying to not be gone too much.
KS: Do your children show any signs of being musically inclined?
KWS: Oh yeah!
KS: Naturally talented huh?
KWS: It’s definitely in their blood. But it’s not anything I’m trying to push or really even encouraged that much as no one encouraged me to do it. I did it. I was drawn to it, and I did it because I wanted to. And I did it because I loved to do it. And I feel like if they want to, they’ll find their way.
KS: I have to say most musicians I have spoken to say it’s something they knew they would always do…there was never a back up plan. It was just something they always knew they wanted to do. And it just happened.
Is there anything new on the horizon we should be looking forward to here?
KWS: Yah, at the end of this year I’ll be going into the studio again with another band that I have, called The Rides. Stephen Stills and Barry Goldberg and I put a band together last year and put a record out under the name of The Rides. We’ll be going into the studio this winter, and doing a second album that will come out next year. So we’ll be on the road next year promoting that. And then soon after that, I will be back in the studio with my band making another record with my band.
KS: Oh my gosh..you are a really busy person! I really appreciate you agreeing to speak with us. I try to give my readers an insight into those I interview that is outside the realm of music and more on a personal level. If you don’t mind playing along I have a quick speed round of questions I ask…you don’t have to…but we would love it if you could.
KWS: We’ll see.
Social Speed Round
KS: Your on tour and have a day off to do anything in the area you are in ..do you ? 1. Catch up on sleep 2. Hit the road and sightsee 3. Or this..
KWS: For me on my day off I exercise then we try to find some place local to eat that has that “you only can find in that town atmosphere”. We like to find something unique that you only can experience in that area we are visiting.
KS: You have a chance to be on a reality tv show..you choose this show to show off your…
KWS: If I was on any reality tv show it would have to do with cars because I’m a huge car nut..so it would have to be something to do with cars.
KS: Go to food on the road?
KWS: Tripple expresso
KS: Go to food at home?
KWS: I actually just started using my vegetable juicer and I started buying all these organic vegetables and like throwing them in this juicer. I have a hard time eating vegetables. But I have a very easy time drinking them. I’ve realling got into juicing since going back home. The first thing I do is bust out the juicer and make my own vegetable juice. That way I don’t have to eat them.
KS: Dogs/cats/or snakes?
KWS: Dogs! I have a mix…half beagle and half terrier so he looks like a baby golden lab..He’s like 7 years old and full grown..but he looks like a puppy.
KS: A few names currently on your playlist?
KWS: Nothing too exciting.. the same stuff you know…like Muddy Waters and Jimmy Hendrics . There is a young rock band though that I’ve been listening to the other day on my phone called Rival Sons. They’re pretty good, straight head young rock band.
KS: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us. We are stoked for your performance tomorrow night, and look forward to bringing our readers the highlights.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd – Turning Stone
As I reflected upon our interview and sat there watching Kenny, Noah Hunt, Chris Layton, Tony Franklin, and Riley Osborne, I couldn’t help counting my blessings to be experiencing this moment. A lover of all types of music, there is something about Kenny and his band and their music that touches your soul. It reaches inside you and you truly experience the music. As he played covers of some of his favorite songs such as House is Rockin’ by Stevie Ray Vaugh and his BB Medley, as well as original favorites such as Deja Voodoo and Blue on Black the combination of Noah’s sultry sexy voice and Kenny’s ability to shred like no other, draws you in and definitely puts you under a spell. I definitely was transfixed.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd – Turning Stone
KWS Set List: Never Looking Back > Somehow > Everything is Broken > House is Rockin’ > Search and Destroy > Heat o the Sun > Talk To Me Baby > Can’t Judge A Book > Breaking Up Somebody’s Home > Looking Back > BB Medley > Shotgun > Encore – Blue On Black > King Bee > Oh Well > Voodoo
Brantley Gilbert certainly brought his ‘A Game’ when he visited Central, New York July 10 at the Turning Stone Casino. This Georgia born entertainer, recently awarded the coveted ACM 2013 Top New Male Artists award, has certainly been busy over the last few years cranking out hit songs for himself and other Nashville artists. Touring with the likes of Willie Nelson, Eric Church, Toby Keith, and Tim McGraw.
Recently in Upstate, New York as one of the many top-notch country performers at the Taste of Country Music Festival at Hunter Mountain, concert goers got a small taste of the no holds barred artist that writes and plays from the heart sharing from real life experiences. This young man makes no excuses for who he is, what he believes in, or how he looks. He’s been labeled a bad boy of country music, however his polite persona shines through to give you a hint that there is so much more to this artist than what’s on the surface.
Opening for Brantley was newcomer Brandon Lay who took over the stage and warmed up this audience; winning over new fans left and right. Covering original songs of his own and covers like a pro, it was our honor to give him a warm CNY welcome to our neck of the woods, with the hopes of returning again one day soon on his own headline tour.
I was really looking forward to seeing this rebels full show, having seen Brantley just a few weeks prior at the Taste of Country Music Festival, and he absolutely didn’t disappoint. As a performer, it’s great to have hit songs to belt out to an audience, but it’s the delivery that makes the show. It’s the opening number that pumps up the audience and begins the evening, it’s the interaction with the audience as the performer is singing, and it’s the momentum that builds as each song plays into the next one. Brantley has an innate ability to deliver these critical aspects that hook his audience and reels them in number after number. His opening number and accompanying video totally delivered this one-two-punch that hooked the audience, built them up to an expectation of greatness, and delivered from that point on. No matter how much of a showman this young man is, you cannot mistake his talent in songwriting. It’s his songwriting that truly shines bright amongst the chains and tough exterior, as he shares in each number a piece of who he is and how he perceives his life experiences.
Brantley Gilbert – Turning Stone Casino
Surrounded by some of the top-notch musicians in the business, his band perfectly accompanies Brantley on each number delivering the ambience in one killer set. With Patrick Stevens on guitar and background vocals, Jonathan Waggoner on bass and background vocals, Ben Sims on drums and percussion, BJ Golden on the mandolin ,acoustic and electric guitar, keyboards, and background vocals, and Noah Henson rounding them out on rhythm guitar and background vocals, these guys commanded the stage meshing perfectly together to bring the show all together and build up that electric feel that delivers this show over the top.
Brantley Gilbert – Turning Stone Casino
Brantley Gilbert is a force to be reckoned with as country music switches tides to deliver an eclectic sound that mimics a mixture of country, bluegrass, and rock and roll. Perhaps it’s this mixture and the fact that Brantley doesn’t sway away from his goal to deliver his sound his way that has hooked me as one of his BG Nation members. Coming back through NY August 22n to the Watertown Fairgrounds, it is my suggestion if you love the new direction of country rock you definitely need to take the time and the ride up north to see Brantley.
Country music has evolved since it’s inception in the early 1920’s. A mix of folk music, blues, western music, and so many other styles, it has become America’s music. Like the melting pot of cultures it originated from over the years, one thing holds true, country music tells a story, and those who have shared their stories over the years are held in high regards by those who know country music. One individual that comes to mind as one of country’s greats is Loretta Lynn.
Loretta Lynn – Turning Stone Showroom
Loretta Lynn is known as the First Lady of Country Music, the Coal Miner’s Daughter, and the Queen of Country Music – and rightly so. Her career has spanned more than 50 years in the business, with 54 albums, 15 compilation albums, 88 singles, of which 16 were number one hits, and three of her songs were recently selected as those listed as “100 Greatest Country Songs of All Times“, in Rolling Stone Magazine.
Originally scheduled to appear in 2013 at the Turning Stone, a medical emergency caused Loretta’s tour to have to be rescheduled, and those who originally bought tickets to the 2013 show were happy to see her June 21, 2014. As the crowd gathered, it was a delight to see the mix of generations who recognize this amazing woman’s talents. As the show opened with her son, Ernest, and twin daughters Peggy and Patsy, warming up the crowd for Loretta, you could see how Loretta’s love of music and talent continue through her children. As her daughter helped her to her seat front and center on stage, that country melody sang through loud and clear as this icon performed hit after hit.
Loretta Lynn – Turning Stone Showroom
Was truly an honor to be able to cover this show and see firsthand one of country music’s legends. We all have seen her story on film, heard her story through her songs, but to see her first hand as one of this country’s first women in the country music business was special, because Loretta Lynn is special. Surviving in a music business at the time dominated by men, her perseverance and persistence to get her songs heard are only one aspect of what makes this woman great. Continuing through life, a life that wasn’t all sunshine and roses, she came out on the other side stronger and a role model to all who know her story. She is truly an example for all women to follow, and our adoration and respect as a trailblazer is immense. We sincerely thank Loretta for all she has done for country music, and for gracing our stage here in Central NY at The Turning Stone Showroom.
Under the cloak of darkness, the band takes the stage and begins to rock the audience on not just one night, but two, packing the house on both occasions. Best known for their seven hit albums and more than 25 hit singles, Staind has remained one of the most popular hard rock bands over the past two decades and sold out two nights at Turning Stone Showroom.
Staind
With Aaron Lewis on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Johnny April on bass and backing vocals, Mike Mushok on lead guitar, and Sal Giancarelli on drums and percussion, how can you not love the electricity felt in the air and vibrations throughout the room with the amps blasting some of their best known hits from over the years.
What many don’t know about these rock stars is their dedication to giving back to communities throughout New England through a charity called It Takes A Community Foundation. The foundation was founded in 2010 by Aaron Lewis and his wife, Vanessa, when the small rural school in their hometown was closed due to budgetary constraints. Instead of seeing their children and the others in the town bused to schools outside their community, they came together to establish the foundation to combat this problem. Through a benefit concert that year, they were able to raise enough money to reopen the school as a private local school available to all the children in the community. Now in their 4th year of raising money through benefit concerts and an annual golf tournament, the foundation focuses on reviving rural communities throughout all of New England by working together with the leaders in the communities to identify and address their individual needs and crises at hand. For more information on the charity and the concert and golf tournament for 2014, please visit It Takes A Community Foundation at http://itacf.org/index.php/about.html .
For more information on Staind and their upcoming shows please visit their page at http://www.staind.com .
The Bret Michaels Life Rocks Tour rocked Central NY to a sold out crowd April 30th at the Turning Stone Casino Showroom. Currently touring across America, Bret Michaels Band took the stage with an energy level of high-octane and continued as the crowd fed the momentum.
Bret Michaels – Turning Stone
Bret Michaels Life Rocks Tour, formerly of the band Poison and well-known musician and reality star, is touring the country raising awareness while rocking audiences. A community-oriented performer, Bret Michaels is well-known for his support in causes such as American Diabetes Association, Operation Homefront, and PetSmart Charities. His appreciation of his fans was apparent as he reached out to touch, smile, and point to the audience as he performed. I was pleasantly surprised at this rock stars behavior as I learned about how he dedicates so much time to helping others. Although it wasn’t necessary, it definitely upped his sexy level which was already pretty high. Check out Bret’s new single “A Beautiful Soul” which sums up this rock star’s heart when it comes to his audiences and his dedication to helping others.
The Turning Stone showroom once again welcomed Wynonna and her band The Big Noise in a remarkable performance. Touring right before Christmas, she stopped December 21st just in time to share some Christmas tunes and personal stories of music, family, and friends with fans.
Wynonna and The Big Noise
Upon arriving to the show, one automatically felt at home, as her stage was set up as though it was her Christmas living room. Wynonna is best known not only as a solo artist with numerous singles and duets, but also from her career with her mother during the 80’s as of half of the award winning duo The Judds. Her voice has a presence that makes itself known, as one of the strongest voices in country music. However her choices in music this evening represented more of her roots in the Appalachian Mountain blue grass music she grew up with. Her outgoing and comical personality shone through as she spoke to the audience of her relationships with her children, her family, and all of those she holds so dear putting them immediately at ease. Her one on conversations with members of the audience further incorporated them as part of the show and not just observers.
Wynonna and The Big Noise
As she performed the most unique and perfect choices for the season, she narrated why she choose the numbers and the personal stories each number represented. In one such narration, she spoke of a conversation with a lovely lady named Priscilla who invited her to sing with her husband in a duet on his Christmas album. The well known number, digitally mastered, was the amazing rendition of “Santa Claus is Back in Town” featuring Wynonna and Elvis Presley.
Wynonna also shared her personal fears and sadness while telling the audience about the most horrific day as she witnessed her husband, Catcus Moser’s motorcycle crashed into an oncoming vehicle right in front of her. She shared her fear of not knowing if he would survive, and spoke of his prognosis once he had stabilized. Doctors told them that they would not be able to save his leg and he probably wouldn’t be able to play again. Despite what they said, Cactus stood and joined her from behind the drums. The crowd rose to a standing ovation as he showed off his new prostectic leg. You could see that he was an individual who wrote his own story in life, and he wasn’t going to allow anyone to dictate what he could or could not accomplish. Not only did he accompany her on drums, but they performed what I have to say was my favorite number of the night when they sang “Baby It’s Cold Outside”. Their musical moment shared an insight into their personal relationship as they sang and laughed as though no one else was in the room. To say it was special doesn’t quite cover the glimpse we saw at the love and friendship they share. Truly one of the best renditions ever, and an inspirational moment to all.
Cactus Moser of The Big Noise
Wynonna is truly a country legend. With more than 20 number one singles, and numerous awards and nominations in the business one doesn’t doubt this. However, what truly rises her above the others is her strength and perseverance to remain forever true to herself and her craft. Through numerous ups and downs in her career and her life, her honesty shines through to those she performs for whether its through the lyrics of her music or the banter on stage with her bandmates and her audience. Wynonna clearly makes a big noise and take center stage for those who are lucky enough to see her show.
Benny Mardones, commonly referred to as “The Voice” because of his incredible vocal range, held his annual Christmas show on December 14th at the Turning Stone Showroom to a full crowd despite the blizzard conditions outside. Dedicated fans traveled from all over the northeast to see him perform with his band, The Hurricanes and they were not disappointed.
Benny Mardones at Turning Stone Showroom
Benny’s best known for his album Never Run Never Hide in which songs such “Into the Night”, “She’s So French”, “Mighta Been Love”, and “American Bandstand” are a few of the songs most recall. However Benny was well known within the industry for his writing long before Never Run Never Hide. His amazing ability to put down on paper the emotions of so many is once again on the horizon. In 2014 fans who supported Benny through his Kickstarter Campaign will be the first to receive his new album Timeless. Fans that attended this show were treated to a few of the new songs as well as many of his most popular numbers.
Central New York has become Benny’s home away home for numerous years due to the support the area has always given him throughout his career. During highs and lows in his career and personal life, Benny has always remained in the hearts of those here in Central New York. Over the course of the last three years, I have had the opportunity to photograph and meet with Benny and speak to him.
One thing always resonates with me as I cover his shows and that is the fact that he is one of the most supportive individuals to others I have met in the industry. Each year he plays in the area because CNY was always there for him. I see him constantly giving back to the area and supporting individuals in the military, new artists that are up and coming from the area, a number of charitable causes, and foremost those fans that stayed with him in his darkest days. He is truly an amazing musician and individual as he continues to play and perform despite personal illnesses and limitations he now suffers from. He is truly and inspiration to those that know him, and for those that don’t know, he is one of musics greats and truly “Timeless.”
Growing up in the 70’s and 80’s, the popular music of that time was an eclectic mix for certain. The politically driven folk type songs of the 60’s were being replaced with a fun mix of Motown disco and R&B, a new wave of synthesized pop, Southern and hard rock, a cross over at times from country radio and adult contemporary to the top 40, heavy metal and punk rock bands, and a taste of what we commonly refer to today as rap. During this time we also saw an influx of pop and rock from across the pond. These English artists brought to us some amazing music, and a culture all their own. Vinyl albums were purchased for their artwork, and listened to from start to finish introducing listeners to not only the popular music, but the B side which many times was as good if not better than those songs chosen for release by the record companies. It was a pleasure being able to grow up during this era and be open to listening to so many genres of music. Trying to pick just one favorite during this time period is near to impossible. However there are several favorites that come to mind, one being 
