The Turnpike Troubadours make their debut in Illinois!

I feel like I’m about a week late on writing this little story about the Turnpike Troubadours, who I will refer to as the TTT for simplicity. I’m absolutely in love with the sound these guys put out. Their sound is so refreshing and freeing. I’ve only  been listening to them for about six months now.  I  first heard about them because  of McClure's connection with Diamonds and Gasoline, their latest cd. Then I was on a road trip with my musical mentor and she slipped their cd into the player. This is how she teaches me. She gets my undivided attention and then points out all the important  and clever lyrics? Then I’m hooked, mostly because the lyrics provoke thought, but also because I'm happy to be learning "new" music.   This particular day, I made a real faux pas and she hasn’t let me live it down, YET. I made the mistake of saying I wished a particular verse had rhymed. I don't know why.  I'm not  one for the rhyming music.  My poetry maybe, but I wasn’t thinking. Just listening to these new lyrics and their sound was just very different.  Catchy even.    Sorry, I slipped.  I’ll never wish for a rhyming lyric, again. haha  I just cannot talk about TTT without telling that story first. Because that was the first day I ever gave them a listen. Whew, now that I made that admission, I’m moving forward. Leaving dork behind.

I write this blog because I am already looking for new shows, so I might as well share what I find.  The shows here in the Midwest are some of the best performance's I've seen. When I started watching for a TTT show, I saw they really didn’t travel much past OK or TX. boo hiss But I did see they were going to open for  Jason Boland in Missouri. I was making my plans to go…..until I saw they were going to make the trek to ILLINOIS for their first show here. A full show.  Old 36,  in Riverton would be their host.

If you ever get a chance to see a show here, I recommend it. I’ve come to love this little place. Jeb, the owner, greeted my husband and me upon arrival and shared one hysterical “McClure” story, while we waited for the bar to fill up. Jeb is the reason we get such great shows. Thank you sir, my hat is off to you. I can happily say I’ve lost count of how many great shows I’ve seen at The Old 36.

I met up with friends from everywhere. Chicago, Effing-ham, Taylorville, Peoria, Springfield, Champaign. It’s amazing to see the lengths people will go to on a Tuesday night to see shows like this. We all have to come alive in the morning early. Doesn’t matter, The Turnpike Troubadours are in “RIVERTON” and that’s in ILLINOIS, so you drive to the show and deal with the logistics at midnight. Eh no worries. Right friends.  We are here to LISTEN to the TTT. Knowing most of the people at the show, we collectively decided to move tables towards the stage so we can enjoy the show with a seat. “Until happy dancing, takes over”

The show opened around 9:15 with Every Girl and the small talkative crowd, went silent. It was as perfect as I could have imagined. All I could do was sit there, smile and sing along and thank my lucky stars. Several songs into the show Jeb motioned for us to stand our lazy butts up and come to the front of the stage. Great move too, by the way. TTT music is to be danced to. TTT said they wondered how we danced in an Illinois honky tonk. Well we really don’t. Side note: We should start! My friend Travis’ buddy showed me how to two-step. I thought it was a blast, even though I almost biffed it during one of the spins. My husband and I have tried it out here at home, but neither one of us know it well enough to lead.  Plus we don’t have quite enough space. Hmm, maybe that’s what we will do with that empty room in the basement.

  They played for our Midwest group for about two hours before they took a break. They all pretty much took turns taking the spotlight. Lead guitar, Ryan even impressed us with his steel guitar “skills”. During their break they met fans, sold and signed merchandise and took a few photos. After about a half hour they took the stage again for an outstanding encore. The crowd couldn’t have been happier, many thanks to Old 36 for another fine evening of phenomenal “live” music.

Three and a half hours later, we climbed in the car after saying our goodbyes and drove up I-55 homeward bound. Definitely went to sleep dreaming of Diamonds and Gasoline and the Turnpike Troubadours return to Illinois, someday.

Do yourself a favor, see some live music, soon.

xxmusicgypsyxx

:-)

Here are the latest shows I've found. Let me know if you hear of any others.


December
9th Robert Earl Keen-George's Majestic-Fayetteville, AR
10th Paul Thorn-The Castle Theatre-Bloomington, Il.
13th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights, Old Rock House, St. Louis, MO 9pm
14th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights, House of Blues-Chicago, Il
15th Red Wanting Blue-Cassleman's-Denver, CO ~~~~~~~Casey and Michelle !!
16th Blackberry Smoke-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il
Jackson Taylor Acoustic-Shooters-Kearney, NE
17th Jackson Taylor Acoustic-Nite Crawlers-Worms, NE
18th Blackberry Smoke-Bar 3-Rockford, Il
Reckless Kelly-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok
Jackson Taylor-The Mill-Deweese, NE
19th Jackson Taylor Acoustic-Benchwarmers-Fullerton, NE
31st Randy Rogers Band- with special guests Cody Canada and The Departed-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok


January

1st   HANGOVER BALLThe Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok
Cody Canada, Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen, Stoney LaRue, Charlie Robison, Seth James, Brandon Jenkins, and Bruce Robison
13th Dale Watson-Rose Bowl Tavern-Urbana, IL
Cody Canada & The Departed-Granada-Lawrence, KS
14th Cody Canada and The Departed-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il. 10pm
15th Dale Watson-The Wiggy Saloon-Janesville, WI
James McMurtry-Old Town School of Folk Music-Chicago, Il
16th Cody Canada and The Departed, The Majestic Theatre-Madison, WI
17th Cody Canada and The Departed, The Canopy Club, Urbana, Il
19th Cody Canada & The Departed-The Blue Note-Columbia, MO
Jason Boland and The Stragglers-Peoples Court-Des Moines, IA
20th Jason Boland and The Stragglers- Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO
21st Jason Boland and The Stragglers-Luke's Bar and Grill-Altamont, Il
22nd Jason Boland and The Stragglers-Beaumont Club-Kansas City, MO
29th Pat Green-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

February

11th Wade Bowen-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il-8:30pm $8
18th Red Wanting Blue-Rathskellar's-Indianapolis, IN
Phil Vassar-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
Old 97's-The Pageant- St. Louis, MO
19th Red Wanting Blue-Britton Tavern-Noblesville, IN
Old 97's-The Vic Theatre-Chicago, Il
26th Robert Earl Keen-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il. 8:30pm $25

Some Good Stuff

Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights "Gypsy Woman" Video
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fblender.com%2Fvideo%2Fmusic-videos%2F95273%2Fjonathan-tyler-northern-lights-gypsy-woman.html&h=2222d


Interview with Cody Canada and Kansas City Limits
http://www.facebook.com/ajax/share_dialog.php?s=99&appid=2309869772&p[]=1224212105&p[]=169675669718611&action_link=share

http://www.thedepartedmusic.com/



Here are the latest shows I've found. Let me know if you hear of any others.

December

9th Robert Earl Keen-George's Majestic-Fayetteville, AR
10th Paul Thorn-The Castle Theatre-Bloomington, Il.
13th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights, Old Rock House, St. Louis, MO 9pm
14th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights, House of Blues-Chicago, Il
15th Red Wanting Blue-Cassleman's-Denver, CO ~~~~~~~Casey and Michelle !!
16th Blackberry Smoke-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il
Jackson Taylor Acoustic-Shooters-Kearney, NE
17th Jackson Taylor Acoustic-Nite Crawlers-Worms, NE
18th Blackberry Smoke-Bar 3-Rockford, Il
Reckless Kelly-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok
Jackson Taylor-The Mill-Deweese, NE
19th Jackson Taylor Acoustic-Benchwarmers-Fullerton, NE
31st Randy Rogers Band- with special guests Cody Canada and The Departed-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok

January

1st HANGOVER BALLThe Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok
Cody Canada, Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen, Stoney LaRue, Charlie Robison, Seth James, Brandon Jenkins, and Bruce Robison
13th Dale Watson-Rose Bowl Tavern-Urbana, IL
Cody Canada & The Departed-Granada-Lawrence, KS
14th Cody Canada and The Departed-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il. 10pm
15th Dale Watson-The Wiggy Saloon-Janesville, WI
James McMurtry-Old Town School of Folk Music-Chicago, Il
16th Cody Canada and The Departed, The Majestic Theatre-Madison, WI
17th Cody Canada and The Departed, The Canopy Club, Urbana, Il
19th Cody Canada & The Departed-The Blue Note-Columbia, MO
        Jason Boland and The Stragglers-Peoples Court-Des Moines, IA
20th Jason Boland and The Stragglers- Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO
21st Jason Boland and The Stragglers-Luke's Bar and Grill-Altamont, Il
22nd Jason Boland and The Stragglers-Beaumont Club-Kansas City, MO
29th Pat Green-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

February

11th Wade Bowen-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il-8:30pm $8
18th Red Wanting Blue-Rathskellar's-Indianapolis, IN
Phil Vassar-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
Old 97's-The Pageant- St. Louis, MO
19th Red Wanting Blue-Britton Tavern-Noblesville, IN
Old 97's-The Vic Theatre-Chicago, Il
26th Robert Earl Keen-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il. 8:30pm $25

Loving Live Music!



White Trash Rodeo





Jason Boland and The Stragglers



Four short days after seeing the Ragweed finale, I ventured out to see White Trash Rodeo open for Jason Boland and The Stragglers, in Champaign.   The two paired really well together, kind of like that line in 51 pieces, frances ford and maryjane......  It was great to see the White Trash boys again.  They  just get better and better is what I heard one friend say and I concur.  They did a great rendition of the Boys from Oklahoma and many many more great red dirt songs.   I will admit I was pretty exhausted after 3 days with Ragweed, so I was there to listen and happily shared the evening with my husband & my son who LOVES Jason Boland's music. Being able to watch him enjoy his favorite music made my night. He was generous enough to share his free hotel reward points with us and booked two rooms for us at the HI Express.  Thanks again, son. I had a blast, right down to the eggs benedict at Perkins. 

 Here's a video for your viewing pleasure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvJvSussix8&feature=player_embedded

 I Did get to see my adopted daughters

 and son too and another friend

whose picture just didnt

 turn out. :( judy.

and of course I couldn't see White Trash Rodeo

 without this guy Departed Priest.

 A musical night with some of the best people,

I've met along the way. Thank you.

Departed Priest



I'm happily adding The Castle Theatre in Bloomington, Il to my  blog today.   I saw Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights there last month and really thought the place was pretty great.  They've already had performance's by Jack Ingram, Alejandro Escovedo, JJ Grey.....so definitely will keep my eyes peeled on this new locale.  I'm told we should see Paul Thorn when he comes around. 

Check it out.   The Castle Theatre in Bloomington, Il.
http://www.thecastletheatre.com/

Also adding a link to KNBT radio from New Braunfels, TX, they just interviewed Mike McClure the other day.  Listen to it at their site along with other musicians we love like Cody & Jeremy.
http://www.knbt.fm.site/

"Stay Tuned" says Cody Canada. There are new tunes coming from Cody Canada & Jeremy Plato.  Cody is currently in the studio working on some new music. Their new band Cody Canada and The Departed will be making their debut at Steamboat.  On Cody's FB page it says a website is coming soon...so as soon as I see it, I will post information.  Until then Cody and Seth James post to FB and Twitter where they will be playing.   I will keep my eye open for anything from them here in the Midwest. 

My husband and I saw Red Wanting Blue, Saturday night. My third time, his FIRST.   I was just as amazed as I was the first time I saw them.  Maybe even more so, because of the BAR and the FANS and the BEERS.  Kemp's Upper Tap in Lexington, Il. hosted the show and did an outstanding job at that.  Our night started out early having agreed to meet friends there for dinner at 6pm. Our friends were running late, so we enjoyed the  BACON cheese fries while we waited for them to arrive. We notice when two bar stools open, right near the floor, so we move up to the bar to wait for our friends there.  Friends still aren't here a couple hours in, one did call and have me order her a burger though.  We dined on some yummy burgers, indeed. My concerned husband wasn't sure what I'd gotten him into this time and continually asked me did you know they started at 10:30?  We did manage to get the three best seats in the house and no cover charge!  wootwoot

 But not to worry,  we made many new friends while we waited. Who was it that said I could stay at their house the next time RWB was in town?  I will take you up on that.

The band arrived and started setting up while all of the early fans peered on. It's a real treat to watch these guys set everything just the way it needs to be, including the LITEBRITE. You really have to see this, to appreciate it. :) Real pride.

 I mean the toys alone take about an hour to stage properly.  I LOVE THAT.  I may have said that the last time I blogged about them.  But I do.

 The bar only holds 200 people and believe me when I say, they were all there. Pretty sure they were all friends of John, the owner.   Who was working his tail off, along with the two  bartenders, to keep everyone with a beer in their hand. Cold beer too and what a great selection they had on hand. WOW.   Check out this selection, Travis!

Upon completion of setting the stage, the band started singing Finger in the Air and the crowd went absolutely crazy, PSYCHE...sound check.    So we waited a little while longer and at 11pm they took the floor, literally with fans an inch from them.  Crazy close, I'm sure they were thinking. They've played here before so they knew how cozy the place was.  They played for a couple hours. Everything I wanted to hear and more.   Just a fantastic show.  The drummer sat on a cajon "box drum", to save space I imagine.  I've only seen it played one other time, a very cool drum. He had tambourines attached to his feet. :) Some of the other  instruments were The Chapman Stick and  a washboard.  If you get a chance to make it out to one of their performances, I know you'll enjoy yourself.  In the meantime check out their stuff on youtube, you will not be sorry. You Are My Las Vegas, Finger in the Air, Where You Wanna Go, Space Time, Borderline, Audition, Your Alibi all great choices to give a listen.  While I was searching youtube I found this one......ADORABLE.  They are worth any wait you may have to endure.

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DyowxnXTL-Cs%26feature%3Dyoutube_gdata_player&h=f5653

Enjoy new music. Today

xxmusicgypsyxx

Here are the latest shows I've found. Let me know if you hear of any others.

November

11th Wade Bowen-Longhorn's-Manhattan, KS

12th Wade Bowen-Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, OK

Needtobreathe-HOB-Chicago, Il

15th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights Grand Rapids, MI

16th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights Birdy's-Indianapolis, In

17th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Mojo's-Columbia, Mo
       Needtobreathe-The Pageant-St.Louis, MO
18th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-The Kathouse Lounge
       Javi Garcia-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, OK
       Jackson Taylor-Guitars-Joplin, MO

19th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-The Wormy Dog-OK City, OK

20th Cory Morrow-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

       Rich O'Toole-The Wormy Dog-OK City, OK
       White Trash Rodeo-Country Junction-Newman, Il 9pm

24th White Trash Rodeo-I & I-Danville, Il 9pm
26th David Allan Coe-Tebaala Shrine Temple-Rockford, Il
       Stoney Larue-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, OK

27th Stevie Ray Vaughn Tribute-The Pageant-St. Louis, Mo
30th Turnpike Troubadours-Old 36 Inn-Riverton, Il.

December

1st Turnpike Troubadours & Jason Boland-Blue Note-Columbia, MO 9pm

2nd Jason Boland-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
       JJ Grey & Mofro-The Vogue-Indianapolis, IN
       Matt Stell-Johnny Cooper-Outland Ballroom-Springfield, MO 9pm
       Jamey Johnson-Riverside Theatre-Milwaukee, WI
3rd Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle-Downers Grove, IL
       Eli Young Band-The Blue Note-Columbia, MO
       Jason Boland and The Stragglers-George's Majestic-Fayetteville, AR
       Jake Owen-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
4th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle Irish Pub, Aurora, Il.

      JJ Grey & Mofro-George's Majestic-Fayetteville, AR

      Eli Young Band-Beaumont Club-Manhattan, Kansas
9th Robert Earl Keen-George's Majestic-Fayetteville, AR

10th Paul Thorn-The Castle Theatre-Bloomington, Il.

16th Blackberry Smoke-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il

18th Blackberry Smoke-Bar 3-Rockford, Il
       Reckless Kelly-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok

31st Randy Rogers Band-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok

January

1st Hangover Ball-The Wormy Dog-Oklahoma City, Ok
15th Dale Watson-The Wiggy Saloon-Janesville, WI
29th Pat Green-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

February

18th Phil Vassar-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

My take on the final 3

Oh, October 2010, how you have become a memory embedded in my mind, forever. The good and the bad. Lessons learned, music loved, friends reunited, tears cried, team power, front row and many unusual decorations.

I definitely needed to rest up and save up from my travels in September, so really haven't been out to see much music until this past week.

Happily I got to see Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights on their run through here with JJ Grey and MoFro.  Thanks to my sweet partner for staying out late on a school night, so I could see them.  The JJ Grey fans that were standing around me, were really impressed with JTNL!  As I was the first time I saw them as an opener. People kept coming up to me, saying, they're good.    Who are they?  So I'm pretty sure JTNL left Bloomington with some new FUN JJ Grey fans.  In fact, some of them are already contacting me, via twitter.    

Thank you JTNL for playing your hearts out and running up and down the highways so that we can hear some music worth listening to, oh and the jagerbomb Jonathan.    Until we meet again, I will spread your word. :)

The upcoming weekend plans have been in the works since Cross Canadian Ragweed announced their break.  So we were all pretty excited to see each other. We were all there to wish them farewell. I can't even begin to name everyone, but it was fantastic to see such a great turnout for the final three shows.  I personally secured EIGHT tickets for fans that weren't going to be able to attend. After the original sale dates.   Just kept watching for them to turn up and they did.     One Ragweed fan from Kentucky sent 4 of them in the mail to me and trusted that I would send him the money, $150. WOW what great fans, Ragweed has created. A real family. 

Many of us arrived a day early in Iowa, to rest up for the trifecta.  An extremely uneventful evening. Checked out Diamond Jo's casino, had the buffet, did some intense people watching, wow.  Every second person arriving was using a walker on wheels. Look out too, they're on a mission to spend that social security. I've never really seen that many people using those walkers at once.  Guess I haven't been to the "casino's" in the Midwest. I had forgotten about public cigarette smoke, too. We don't have that in Illinois anymore. Seemed everyone was doing it.  Cigarette smokers and  casinos must go hand in hand.   I adjusted my nose back to a time when I was just as bad as they were. I managed.  Again Thursday in Iowa was pretty boring and just what we needed.

Friday morning the excitement was off the charts.  The phone is ringing, people are texting, facebooking, tweeting and making arrangements.  I did a little decorating in our suite for our after party. Jammed to a bunch of Ragweed and waited for everyone to roll in. 

Everyone from the "green team" arrived about the same time.

 We proceeded to head over to the casino to claim our spots in line.  Ragweed Rick, Gina and Lonely Girl were already waiting along with some others.  And from there they just started coming from everywhere. Can't really say I met any new fans from Iowa though.  California, Georgia, Minnesota........I decided I didn't want to miss anything over the next three days, so I didn't consume many alcoholic beverages. I don't think I had to leave the front row, but maybe once to use the bathroom. 

I found out later it was a good thing I didn't drink too much because apparently Diamond Jo's frowns on drinking too.

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fnetworkedblogs.com%2F9Ka86&h=f02ac

Tonight was the night for the "Green Team" to show their support to the Boys' from Oklahoma.  I wanted to get them some fresh flowers, but.....couldn't figure out how to transport and all that so I got creative.   

Managed to get these on stage to the band and crew, including Shannon. Luckily there was no problem from Diamond Jo with this sort of thing. 

                                                              Or this

The show was absolutely fantastic from the start to the very end. The finale

Finale video http://www.facebook.com/ajax/share_dialog.php?s=99&appid=2309869772&p[]=1224212105&p[]=172365516107425&action_link=share

 was INCREDIBLE! The energy the boys had and the crowd's energy made for a extremely great night. 

a few of the crazies!

Got Grady's first pic he gave away and quietly tucked it in my pocket and smiled.  :)

Not my pic picture, but i'm using it.

After the show we headed over to the attached hotel to partake in some beers and fellowship.  Not sure how long we were actually in the room, before we received our first warning to be quiet.  Keep in mind the hotel is housing the whole band and tons of partying fans.  But we were just too close to the front desk, I think.  So right before the party broke up, there was a very LOUD knock on the door.  5 of Iowa's finest.  Hello fellas.  Obnoxious behavior report.  Thank you front desk. Real gems.  Our bad for not being quieter. But you could have let us stay in the hotel and not in our CAR. Oh well, no worries, no tickets, no trouble. Just some "concert" friends getting together for the final three shows they will ever see their favorite band play.  Do be QUIET in IOWA, because anyone laughing is bound to draw attention. 

So......after trying to sleep in our car for a few hours we decided to wake up the other two that were supposed to share our room (in their cars too)and headed to Dubuque! Arriving with practically no sleep, I called ahead for an early check in and was in the room sleeping by 1:30 I think.  I slept for about two or three hours and woke up ready to spend another evening with some great people. After my french coffee fix of course. 

This show will be the second to last show  and the seating was not GA, so everyone was still early trying to figure out how the night was going to play out.  While we were getting our tickets at will call, we found out you could upgrade your seat for FULL price. $40 for 2nd and 4th rows.  But with no credit for your originally purchased ticket. Huh.  Trickery?  One friend said she was almost kicked out for giving away her extra ticket, WHY? The setup once on the inside was just bizarre, seats, yes seats.  This is when I realized Diamond Jo's has no CLUE.  I heard that, the band, tried to get the seats removed, but to no avail.  The "rent a cops" down front were actually asking people to sit down and quit dancing, during Six Nights Alone's opening act. WHAT? sit down, it's a flippin concert.  One group of people said every time the "rent a cop" had someone touch him, he had a punching jerk reaction as to protect himself. Protect himself from what,  the fans.  Several people didn't even know who Ragweed was.  The Casino definitely didn't know who they were. Bet they do now! 

I was talking to one fan about how calm it looked down front.  Didn't seem like too many people were getting into the show.  She's all, come down here with me.....I'm all woohoo, sure.....she's all, that's my seat over there. Four chairs in,  so I climb over the chairs and of course fist pump it a little, when I was asked to stand down.  OK OK, just trying to show some love for the band.  Forgive me.  Then I get in my bag of tricks and pull out a small amount of green crepe paper and toss it up to the stage.  OH bad move........"rentalcop" all over me.  I think, OK gotta go back to my standing bar area.....oh NO. Gotta leave the establishment, not just the concert. Couldn't believe it. Mike couldn't believe it.  Mr. Rentalcop had to tell Mike to get out of his face. Mike's response was priceless. Oh I will, cause you've got bad effin breath.  Thanks babe.

 So three security guards escorted us

to the front door,

where I told them, I AM GOING to finish this $8 glass of Vodka I just bought. I wasn't even scared.

Now I stand outside the casino and wait for my group.  After about an hour, everyone starts coming out and we're all bitching about our experience at DIAMOND JO'. Promise not just one complaint, tons.  It's been sometime now and I need to use the bathroom.  Everyone assures me I should be able to go in and go up the escalator to the bowling alley bathrooms. So I did.  When I exited the bathroom, Mr. Rentalcop, is waiting for me.  Miss, when we asked you to leave, you were not supposed to re-enter.  I'm appalled! Sir, how do you know I'm using your bathroom. We are watching you on surveillance. We have 414 cameras.  Oh okay, that makes sense.  Because, I'm such a threat.  Trust me when I say DIAMOND JO CASINOS are a huge joke. Don't book a show here or attend a show here. I'm over it!  EFF U IOWA!

Sunday morning I woke up thinking, there's no way I cannot be in the front row tonight. So we left Dubuque early and headed straight to Joe's Bar in Chicago!

Upon our arrival we see everyone we spent the past two days with and some!
It was a great day of Ragweed tailgating.  I even got a real Chicago Dog from Whole Foods, does that make it a healthy dog?

Everyone came rolling in, in taxis, limos, there were people from everywhere. OK, Texas, Indiana, Illinois, California, Virginia, Missouri, Minnesota, South Carolina, again everywhere. Extra tickets were showing up too. I posted on FB and managed to find homes for a couple.

The staff from Joe's starting marking our hands and checking our bags about 5:30 and by 6pm we were inside in a new line. Waiting, chomping at the bit.  Then finally. The doors opened for the last Cross Canadian Ragweed show.  We took our spot at the front of the stage and the anticipation began.

 At 8pm the Wade Bowen Band took the stage and entertained us for about an hour.  Unfortunately two of the people I got tickets for were being hassled to get in the doors.  They were both told there was nothing for them.  Luckily within about 15 minutes they were in the doors and I felt good and bad all at the same time.  Good because they were in and bad because I had to text for the first 20 minutes while Wade was singing.  I hate it when people do that.  Not a habit, not to worry.  A few lessons learned, here.

Love them and look forward to anything and everything new that they might do!

The final Cross Canadian Ragweed show began for me, like this.........

What sharp dressed men we had on stage tonight. Showing Chicago a lotta love!

           And we  had, Leann Womack to help sing my favorite song Sick and Tired!

Sick and Tired video http://www.facebook.com/ajax/share_dialog.php?s=99&appid=2309869772&p[]=1224212105&p[]=136211996428917&action_link=share

Stoney Baloney showed up

          Randy came out and sang Daddy's at home, while his mother looked on. 

Daddy's at home video. http://www.facebook.com/ajax/share_dialog.php?s=99&appid=2309869772&p[]=1224212105&p[]=170459066300415&action_link=share

What a proud moment for her.

It was an UNFORGETTABLE Nat King Cole kind of evening. The whole crew was thanked along with all of the wives. They played hard as hell for three hours.  All of our favorite songs surfaced, not one request was ever shouted. Not one person pushed me. Not one person spilled anything on me.  Not one person stepped on my feet. Not one person trying to get in front of me. Not one unhappy person. The most calm cool and collected Ragweed crowd, I have ever seen in Chicago. again UNFORGETTABLE. 

At the end of the song The Boys from Oklahoma, Grady bent right down to me, so that I could strum his guitar. First time for everything.  Thanks buddy.

The video http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=462527751360&ref=mf

He also gave me the last pic he used.  I've never had a  bond with a musician like I do him.   Not only Grady, all of them.  They have all been so gracious to us "fans" giving signatures, pictures, guitar pics, drumsticks, harmonicas, wine bottles, set lists and yes a tie or two. A big thank you on behalf of all of us.  Like Wade Bowen said, Ragweed Rules!

To see great pictures and more videos check out KNBT.fm' & Rick Priest' facebook pages and http://www.joesbar.com/, I've enjoyed everything I've seen.

PEACE to all the Ragweed family in all of their future endeavors. We love you!

   Seriously I need to wrap this up, because A. it's a little long and B. I've got another concert to get ready for!  It's a White Trash Rodeo and Jason Boland Halloween party in Champaign.

Enjoy your music,

xxmusicgypysxx



Here are the latest shows I've found. Let me know if you hear of any others.


October
29th White Trash Rodeo-Jason Boland-Bradley's-Champaign, Il.
Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyles Pub-Bloomingdale, IL
30th White Trash Rodeo-Rosebowl Tavern-Urbana, IL 9pm
31st Band of Heathens-Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO

NOVEMBER
2nd Band of Heathens-Schuba's-Chicago, Il 8pm
3rd Band of Heathens-Six Strings Bar-Bloomington, IL
Back Porch Mary-Crosstown Station-Kansas City, MO 9pm
4th Back Porch Mary-Jax's-Topeka, KS 10pm
5th Red Wanting Blue-The Rathskellar-Indianapolis, IN
Back Porch Mary-Old 36 Inn-Riverton, Il
6th Red Wanting Blue-Kemp's-Lexington, IL
Back Porch Mary-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
11th Wade Bowen-Longhorn's-Manhattan, KS
15th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights Grand Rapids, MI
16th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights Birdy's-Indianapolis, In
17th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Mojo's-Columbia, Mo
18th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-The Kathouse Lounge
20th Cory Morrow-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
White Trash Rodeo-Country Junction-Newman, Il 9pm
24th White Trash Rodeo-I & I-Danville, Il 9pm

December

1st Turnpike Troubadours & Jason Boland-Blue Note-Columbia, MO 9pm
2nd Jason Boland-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
Matt Stell-Johnny Cooper-Outland Ballroom-Springfield, MO 9pm
3rd Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle-Downers Grove, IL
      Eli Young Band-The Blue Note-Columbia, MO
4th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle Irish Pub, Aurora, Il.
Eli Young Band-Beaumont Club-Manhattan, Kansas
10th Paul Thorn-The Castle Theatre-Bloomington, Il.

This weekend! Boland, White Trash Rodeo, Band of Heathens, Red Wanting Blue...

Here are the latest shows I've found. Let me know if you hear of any others.

October

27th Jason Boland-Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO

28th Jason Boland-Longhorn's Saloon-Manhattan, KS

29th White Trash Rodeo-Jason Boland-Bradley's-Champaign, Il.
         Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyles Pub-Bloomingdale, IL

30th White Trash Rodeo-Rosebowl Tavern-Urbana, IL 9pm
31st Band of Heathens-Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO

       

NOVEMBER

2nd Band of Heathens-Schuba's-Chicago, Il 8pm

3rd Band of Heathens-Six Strings Bar-Bloomington, IL
       Back Porch Mary-Crosstown Station-Kansas City, MO 9pm

4th  Back Porch Mary-Jax's-Topeka, KS 10pm
5th Red Wanting Blue-The Rathskellar-Indianapolis, IN

      Back Porch Mary-Old 36 Inn-Riverton, Il

6th Red Wanting Blue-Kemp's-Lexington, IL

      Back Porch Mary-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
11th Wade Bowen-Longhorn's-Manhattan, KS

20th Cory Morrow-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

        White Trash Rodeo-Country Junction-Newman, Il 9pm
24th White Trash Rodeo-I & I-Danville, Il 9pm

December

1st Turnpike Troubadours & Jason Boland-Blue Note-Columbia, MO 9pm
2nd Jason Boland-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
       Matt Stell-Johnny Cooper-Outland Ballroom-Springfield, MO 9pm 

3rd Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle-Downers Grove, IL

4th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle Irish Pub, Aurora, Il.
      Eli Young Band-Beaumont Club-Manhattan, Kansa

FALL FINDS

Show Dates


September


30th-Randy Rogers Band-Council Bluffs, IA
         Todd Snider-Memorial Opera House-Valparaiso, IN
         Bleu Edmondson-Denim & Diamonds-Wichita, KS

October

1st Todd Snider-Stable Studios-Spencer, IN
      Randy Rogers Band-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
      Bleu Edmondson-Beaumont Club-Kansas City, MO

2nd Bleu Edmondson-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
5th   – Halfway Out of the Woods cd release-Mike McClure Band
Chris Knight-Full Band-Old Rock House-St. Louis, MO

6th Chris Knight-Full Band-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
7th Chris Knight Full Band-Longhorns Saloon-Manhattan, KS
8th Chris Knight Full Band-Snorty Horse-Columbia, MO
    
9th Chris Knight Full Band-Knuckleheads-Kansas City, MO
      Jackson Taylor-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
      Red Wanting Blue-Britton Tavern-Noblesville, IN
      Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il

11th - CANCELLED-Justin Townes Earl-Turner Hall Ballroom-Milwaukee, WI

12th CANCELLED-Justin Townes Earl-Six Strings Bar-Bloomington, IL
13th Radney Foster-Shank Hall-Milwaukee, WI
14th Todd Snider-George's Majestic Lounge-Fayetteville, AR
15th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Headliners Music Hall-Louisville, KY

16th Jonathan Tyler and The Norhern Lights-House of Blues-Chicago, IL
        Micky & The Motorcars-The Snorty Horse-Columbia, MO

17th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Majestic Theatre-Madison, WI

        Randy Rogers Band-Val Air Ballroom-Des Moines, IA
        Micky & The Motorcars-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO

19th Jonathon Tyler and The Northern Lights-The Castle Theatre-Bloomington, Il

22nd Cross Canadian Ragweed-Diamond Jo-Northwood, IA
         Jason Boland-Granada Theatre-Lawrence, KS

23rd Six Nights Alone-Cross Canadian Ragweed-Diamond Jo-Dubuque, IA
24th Wade Bowen-Cross Canadian Ragweed-Joe's Bar-Chicago FINAL SHOW
27th Jason Boland-Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO
28th Jason Boland-Longhorn's Saloon-Manhattan, KS
29th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyles Pub-Bloomingdale, IL
31st Band of Heathens-Off Broadway-St. Louis, MO
        White Trash Rodeo-Jason Boland-Bradley's-Champaign, Il.

NOVEMBER

3rd Band of Heathens-Six Strings Bar-Bloomington, IL
5th Red Wanting Blue-The Rathskellar-Indianapolis, IN
      Back Porch Mary-Old 36 Inn-Riverton, Il
6th Red Wanting Blue-Kemp's-Lexington, IL
      Back Porch Mary-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
20th Cory Morrow-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.

December
2nd Jason Boland-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
3rd Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle-Downers Grove, IL
4th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle Irish Pub, Aurora, Il.

July came and went.

The end of June and the beginning of July were moving along too quietly for this girl as she Needs MUSIC.  After working around the house, growing things, making salsa and relaxing, I couldn’t take it anymore.  Just happened to remember a couple of my FRANS were talking about a Toys for Tots drive with White Trash Rodeo performing. So on the Third of July, we travel.

Met these guys at several Ragweed shows and thought wyknot! Drove about 3.5 hours downstate to Effing Ham and listened to all things red dirt along the way.  Time seemed to fly and upon arrival we met up with several people we’ve come to know over the years.  Big thanks to the coordinators Erica and Randy Hansen.  Without people like you, this world wouldn’t be the same. They managed to get their hands on some great raffle items.  As it turns out $20 in tickets and I came away with 3 of the items!  SCORE.

White Trash Rodeo did just what I was told they would do.  Rocked out some great red dirt tunes.  A little bit of everything.  Thank you for fulfilling the need I was having and then some. :)  And all for toys for tots.

The following week began with the thought of a bride and groom.   There was a wedding I had to attend in Missouri the same weekend Stoney Larue was playing two dates there. That’s one of the things I love about my "gypsy" life.  A few ideas come together and before you know it a week long vacation has been planned. 7 days away.  Not that I even needed it. Cause I’ve been off work since the end of December.  Hello.   Vacation from what?  You hiring?

So off to Missouri we go.  3 coolers, light luggage, lotsa snacks and a big bag of green beans for Kandi. 

Day 1, 5 hours from home, first stop, Columbia Missouri.  Decided to go for a little bit of luxury and stopped at The Hampton.  No Sleep Inn or Travelodge tonight, folks.  Some other time, but not tonight.  Asked the clerk politely for the “free” upgrade. Spent the next 16 hours or so enjoying the benefit of the King Suite.  After snacking and a cocktail or two, off we go the Blue Note.  Upon arrival we immediately met up with our FRAN Rick and before long we’d made new FRANS from Pontiac, Il.  I hope to hear from them again.  I gave them my info, so we’ll see. I always feel like my mom when I say, we'll see?  Weird.

 The night was perfect.  Down front with a glass of Kettle and Soda.  Enjoyed for the second time ever, the band that is Matt Stell and The Crashers. I’ve had their cd since winter and enjoy several of the tunes.  Steve Littleton from Stoney’s band added some keyboards to the show. A musician from John D Hale band, whose name I’ve forgotten, also added to the big band that made up the opening act. They were absolutely fantastic.  Love it when Matt got really blue z.  Hope to catch him and those crashers again, soon.  Until then I will listen to The Sound of the Story. 

Stoney and the boys came on and played a nice long set.Their banner looked absolutely amazing on the stage and made for some great photo’s.  I met a new FRAN down front and we had a great time talking about our journeys across Missouri.  I luckily had a bed to go to back to, she was driving home 5 hours. I always FEEL for those that have to make the drive home.  I hate it. Late night driving isn’t for me.

After the show we visited with the band and listened to their stories of their recent travels to Alaska.  Sounds like a must do trip.  This gypsy definitely has Alaska on her agenda. But now that I can add Stoney Larue and several other bands, to the plan, it’s a no brainer.  Alaska here I come. 

Day 2, 6 hours, second stop, Diamond, Missouri. Thanks to a referral from another FRAN, we landed at the “Precious Moments” Best Western.  Nice enough hotel, I should just leave it at that and only 7 miles from our destination, Lucky Maggie’s. Sorry to the “church”  ladies who had to hear me “swearing”.  That’s how I talk sometimes.  Where was my OH MY HECK, when I needed it.  Anyway.  After a little rest and some freshening up we decided to head over to the Lucky Maggie's  to dine. Loved the catfish. The food was great and the background music was unstoppable. I’d come back just for the dinner music. I’m silly that way. Turnpike Troubadours, Mike McClure, Reckless Kelly.  Just not the background music you get here in Northern Illinois!  Right after dinner met up with  Kandi the owner and delivered her the sack of green beans from our garden.  Long story short, she likes green beans.  Grown by someone else all the better.  What I wouldn’t do for a FRAN.

  Didn’t get much of a chance to visit with her anymore, because it was quite the busy place.  I would like her to know that Lucky Maggie’s was about the coolest place I’ve ever listened to music. It just had a  FEEL about it. I will WISH on a star every night that Lucky Maggie’s  was a bit closer than 9 hours. :(

John Henry and the Engines started the evening off with a great deal of energy.  I liked what I heard and really meant to get some of their merch. Seemed different than some of the usual stuff.

I was reminded I saw them one other time in St. Louisme.  So I tried not to let it bother me or hinder my time.  Needless to say, she was removed.  A big thank you to management for taking care of her. She was a real danger to herself. I was a bit my mother, looking after her, worrying that she was going to crack her head open.  Dirty Booze.

Stoney and The Arsenals came on and played for almost 3 hours.  The show was absolutely fabulous, right to the very end.  About every musician on stage took a turn singing a solo.  This was a first for me.  I didn't know they could all sing. So seeing both Jeremy's, Kevin and Jesse belting it out gave me some big ole goosebumps. This group of guys are so musically talented that if I could see them every week, I would.  I DO get to see them tonight in Chicago!  Woot.

After being on the road for days and days and driving more than 20 hours through Illinois and Missouri, I stayed home for almost 10 days in a row.  Got myself all rested up and caught up on all my gardening and domestic "diva" duties.  A great feeling for me, by the way.  Love's all things in order for the most part. Thanks mom. Seriously thanks.

 After some much needed rest, I traveled down to Riverton where there is a great little bar called Old 36 Inn.  Actually was one of the first places I was turned onto some red dirt music.  Johnny Cooper was set to play at 9 ish and I left home around 8 ish. Two hour drive with some funny shit along the way. Windshield wiper flew off, making a god awful screech every time it swept across the window.  But I do remember saying to my husband, get me to the show on time. I'll fix the window, later.  Ha, got it replaced today.  Laughing now, not so much then.  Thanks to Jeb for the duct tape, couldn't have listened to that screeching all the way home. This was my first Johnny show and it was memorable.  I no longer thought he sounded like Cody Canada.  Wow what a talented young man.  21 years old.  Crazy.  Not at all what I was expecting and loved all the different sounds they had.  Blues, rock, rap, good stuff.  From what I can tell the kid's got his shit together.

The following week was one I have been waiting for, for so long.  A birthday celebration for a friend with Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights as our entertainment.

  That birthday girl was one lucky chic, to have them play on her exact birthday.  We aren't talking birth week or month, here, we're talking actual birthday and in St. Louis, no less.  A 4 hour trek for me and loved almost every minute of it. First time for me at The Old Rock House.  What a gem of a venue.  Love, LovE, LOVE!  The stage was great, plenty of room for the band to shake their groove thing.  Which they all do very well, I might add. Hearing Mo Brown sing was the highlight of the night for me. Below is a link so you can get your own taste.

 http://youtu.be/UzrdI77uyrk



  She sings from deep in her heart and I feel super alive every time I hear her. Thanks, Mo. Your quite the inspiration young lady. You exude class. Maybe one day I'll get to hear Emotion Brown and The Cosmos!

In closing I will have to say that the month of July was pretty spectacular.  I feel like I am super lucky to have the ability to travel around the way I do and listen to music.  I will never, EVA, EVA  take it for granted.  This journey I've been on for about 4 years now has been a great experience. If it had to end tomorrow, I could say "I HAVE LIVED".

FYI:  Friend + Fan = FRAN

Enjoy the day,

xXMusicGypsyXx



Show Dates


September
3rd-Reckless Kelly-Cross Canadian Ragweed-Arkansas Music Pavillion-Fayetteville, AR
       Jackson Taylor-Bradley's-Champaign
      Todd Snider-Upland Brewing Company-Bloomington, IN
4th Jason Boland Mountain Amphitheatre-Lampe, MO
5th & 6th Todd Snider-PK's-Carbondale, Il
10th Red Wanting Blue-Cubby Bear-Chicago, Il.
        Hayes Carll-Blueberry Hill-St. Louis
11th Hayes Carll-Vaudeville News-Des Moines, IA
        Red Wanting Blue-Traverse City, MI
14th Hayes Carll-Knuckleheads-Kansas City, MO
16th Micky and The Motorcars-Snorty Horse-Columbia, MO
18th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre-St. Louis, MO-Pigroast
19th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Toyota Park-Bridgeview, IL-Loopfest 2010
16th Wade Bowen-Exit In-Nashville, TN
22nd Bob Schneider-Rathskellars-Indianapolis, IN
24th Two Tons of Steel-Bedrock 66 Live Series-Springfield, Il
25th Little Feat-Parkwest-Chicago
30th-Randy Rogers Band-Council Bluffs, IA
         Todd Snider-Memorial Opera House-Valparaiso, IN

October

1st Todd Snider-Stable Studios-Spencer, IN
      Randy Rogers Band-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
7th Chris Knight Full Band-Longhorns Saloon-Manhattan, KS
8th Chris Knight Full Band-Snorty Horse-Columbia, MO
9th Chris Knight Full Band-Knuckleheads-Kansas City, MO
      Jackson Taylor-Lucky Maggie's-Diamond, MO
      Red Wanting Blue-Britton Tavern-Noblesville, IN
11th Justin Townes Earl-Turner Hall Ballroom-Milwaukee, WI

12th Justin Townes Earl-Six Strings Bar-Bloomington, IL
13th Radney Foster-Shank Hall-Milwaukee, WI
14th Todd Snider-George's Majestic Lounge-Fayetteville, AR
15th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Headliners Music Hall-Louisville, KY
16th Jonathan Tyler and The Norhern Lights-House of Blues-Chicago, IL
17th Jonathan Tyler and The Northern Lights-Majestic Theatre-Madison, WI

        Randy Rogers Band-Clive, IA
22nd Cross Canadian Ragweed-Diamond Jo-Northwood, IA
23rd Six Nights Alone-Cross Canadian Ragweed-Diamond Jo-Dubuque, IA
24th Wade Bowen-Cross Canadian Ragweed-Joe's Bar-Chicago FINAL SHOW
29th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyles Pub-Bloomingdale, IL
        White Trash Rodeo-Jason Boland-Bradley's-Champaign, Il.
NOVEMBER

3rd Band of Heathens-Six Strings Bar-Bloomington, IL
6th Red Wanting Blue-Kemp's-Lexington, IL
20th Cory Morrow-Joe's Bar-Chicago, Il.
December
3rd Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle-Downers Grove, IL
4th Red Wanting Blue-Ballydoyle Irish Pub, Aurora, Il.