Branson Country USA Podcasts: Recent Episodes
BRANSON COUNTRY USA
This week we welcome Brooks and Dunn!
Doug Brewin and Larry Turner are seasoned performers with Legends in Concert. Doug has been performing a tribute to Alan Jackson for Legends in Concert since 2004 and Larry, as George Strait, since 2008. The two met while performing their respective tribute acts at Legends in Branson and a friendship was formed. During one of their gigs together they were discussing Country superstars and found they both had a great respect for the singing duo of Brooks & Dunn. They quickly got together and started the process of forming a tribute act to the duo.
Doug and Larry enjoy both the high energy as well as the ballads, singing such Brooks & Dunn classics as My Maria, Neon Moon, Rock My World Little Country Girl, Only in America, Boot Scootin’ Boogie, and Believe.
Larry performs as Kix Brooks and Doug performs as Ronny Dunn.
Doug & Larry feel it's an honor to pay tribute to the duo who has won the prestigious CMA "Duo of The Year" 14 times. Brooks & Dunn have had twenty number one hits and thirty-nine hits in the top ten. They have outsold every duo in musical history including Simon & Garfunkel.
Legends in Concert is located along the famous 76 Strip and has been a part of the Branson entertainment scene over two decades. Two power-packed hours of fabulous entertainment awaits you!
This world famous live tribute show features an amazing cast of all-star entertainers assembled on one stage in one of the most sought after productions in the world. Don't miss out on this extravagant concert in Branson.
To order tickets or for more information call the Dick Clark American Bandstand Box Office: 417-339-3003 or visit www.LegendsInConcert/Branson
This week we welcome Dennis Stroughmatt!
Known today as a master French Creole fiddler, Dennis Stroughmatt was raised with a love for the music of Bob Wills, Ray Price, Tony Booth, Johnny Bush, Spade Cooley, Wade Ray, and Darrell McCall by his father Jack Stroughmatt. Jack was an avid music buff with thousands of records in a collection that dated to the 1930s.
When Dennis began to recognize the music that surrounded him, it was the sound of twin fiddle and steel guitar (as well as a driving horn section) that got him excited and bopping in the middle of the living room floor. With time and different moves, Dennis eventually became enamored with the French Creole music that was local to southern Illinois and southeast Missouri...but that Honky Tonk sound was every present, always in the back of his mind and his heart.
The chance meeting of the legendary fiddler and singer Wade Ray would rekindle that feeling and remind Dennis that Western Swing was still in him. After the passing of Wade, Dennis would again passionately return to French Creole and then Cajun fiddling as his professional focus....but the sounds of his childhood never let go.
Fast forward to the present....Dennis is still enjoying French Creole and Cajun fiddling...but the time to "swing it" is now and his focus on Honky Tonk and Western Swing has never been sharper. Ready to put his study with Wade Ray, Hadley J. Castille, and Buddy Spicher into play....Dennis Stroughmatt, The Honky Tonk Fiddler, is here! Also a strong vocalist in the Ray Price and Tony Booth style, Dennis is ready to hear from you...........
For more information, visit his website: HonkyTonkFiddle.com
This week we welcome Ashley Dawn!
Ashley Dawn Originally from Buffalo, MO, she grew up singing in church where her dad was the pastor and her mama was the piano player. Singing was always a family affair. She sang in a Southern Gospel trio, “The Prater’s”, with her brother and sister in her teen years. They traveled all over the country, performing about 200 concerts per year.
The 135th Army Band discovered her talent and she was contracted to be the lead singer in their traveling band, “Aftershock” for a couple of years.
2019, The Branson Famous Baldknobbers offered her a singing job which she proudly accepted. You can see her performing nightly with the show that started it all in Branson.
The community recognized her amazing talent and awarded her “Female Vocalist of the Year” for Branson in 2022!
Ashley’s true passion is singing. She loves what she’s doing and is looking forward to where her music takes her next!
You can check out the Branson Famous Baldknobbers at their website: Balknobbers.com, or call their theatre at 417-231-4999. You can also visit her Facebook page: AshelyDawnMusic.
This week we welcome Mary Lou Turner!
Born in Hazard, Kentucky, Mary Lou Turner began her career as a regular on the famous Wheeling Jamboree radio show on WWVA in Wheeling, West Virginia. She began turning heads in 1974 with her first popular song, “All That Keeps Me Going”. She followed that success with several other songs that reached the top 50 on the U.S. Country Charts, including “It's Different With You”, “Love It Away”, and “Cheatin' Overtime”.
Though a star in her own right, she may be best known for the duets she sang with Bill Anderson. The duo teamed up to produce hits in the top 25 on the U.S. Country Charts, including “I'm Way Ahead of You” and “Where Are You Going, Billy Boy”. The pair released “Sometimes” in 1976 which reached Number 1 on the Country Charts. That same year, she and Bill also released “That's What Made Me Love You” reaching number 7 with that hit.
Mary Lou has performed in the theaters of Branson, Missouri for many years. She starred with both Boxcar Willie and Buck Trent, before joining the Grand Ladies of Country Music Show.
She has a new album “A Sentimental Music Journey” recorded with the Heart Of Texas label. The album has 13 of Mary Lou’s favorite songs including a duet with radio host, Dallas Wayne, of Sirius XM fame. Mary Lou commented, “ I’ve been singing since I was 12. I thought that a sentimental music journey was a good theme with some songs that are my favorites through the years. I also want to thank Tracy and Charla Pitcox for making this CD possible for the Heart Of Texas label. They are true friends to me and all of Country Music.”
Mary Lou was awarded the “Living Legend” award during 2021 Branson Terry Awards Show. She and her husband, David, call the Ozarks home. For more information, visit her Facebook page.
This week we welcome, pianist, Jason Coleman!
From a young age, it was evident that Jason had inherited his grandfather’s “slip note” touch at the piano, as it managed to “slip” its way into even the most elementary songs from his early piano lessons. Jason’s keen ability to play music by ear led to a childhood spent arranging his own renditions of the songs he loved, just as his “Grandad” did throughout his career. In addition to sharing the piano bench at home, Jason grew up performing with Floyd at his concerts and on national TV, and though he was only 12 years old when Floyd passed away, the close relationship they shared formed the foundation upon which Jason has built his own career in music.
Jason made his Grand Ole Opry debut at age 17, and two years later, he was given the honor of playing for the Medallion Ceremony recognizing Floyd’s induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Since then, he has spent his career in the studio and on stage, producing a collection of his own piano albums and touring across the country in concerts that pay tribute to his grandfather’s enduring legacy and signature piano style.
A Nashville native, Jason makes his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, with his wife, Natalie, and their son, Avery Cramer.
You can check Jason’s website: JasonColemanMusic.com; or on their Facebook page: Facebook.com/JasonColemanMusic.
This week we welcome Travis Scott! Some say Travis Scott Clevenger was singing before he could even talk! It was at age 16 he got on the stage for the first time and from then on Scott was hooked on singing. Throughout his 35+ years of entertaining, he has toured in over 30 states, and has worked with some of country music's biggest stars. He thrives on singing different genres of music, but traditional country is where his heart is. Keeping the "good ole stuff" alive is what he loves to do and will always do. Travis performs throughout Southwest Missouri as a solo artist and with his band, Travis Scott and The Playboyz. Voted Missouri’s Best Male Vocalist 2019 and 2020, he knows how to handle a Country song.
For his schedule visit his Facebook page: Travis Scott & The Playboyz
This week we welcome Dean Z as Ultimate Elvis!
When Dean was 3, the documentary "This Is Elvis" was being broadcast on television. He immediately cleared the coffee table, jumped on top of it and started trying to imitate Presley’s every move. Not long after, Dean's mother made his first Elvis jump suit, and he was on his way.
After performing in several shows of his own, Dean took off for the bright light city that would set his soul on fire, Las Vegas, at age 17. He relocated to the entertainment mecca to attain the goal of establishing himself as a well-known act. Throughout the next 12 years, Dean performed in Vegas, and has paid tribute to "The Memphis Flash" in Japan, Australia, Norway, Denmark, England, across Canada and the United States. Dean soon earned a spot with the World's Greatest Live Tribute Show, "Legends in Concert," then in 2007, moved to headlining the show in Branson, Missouri.
In 2013, Dean decided it was time to go after the title of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist. He and the 28 other semi-finalists competed for the top ten spots on August 14th with the Finals coming three days later. He brought the house down, and was soon presented with a championship belt, the title of Ultimate Elvis 2013 from EPE, a check for $20,000 and tens of thousands of new fans.
The year 2014 was a banner year for Dean, who received the Heart Of The King Award in Las Vegas at the former Las Vegas Hilton, on the same stage the Elvis himself performed over 700 shows during the 1970’s. Dean also had the pleasure of being a part of the national touring production Elvis Lives, a live musical highlighting Elvis’ career that features world champions from the Ultimate Elvis® Tribute Artist ContestTM .
As Dean's success as an entertainer and personality grew, so did his creativity. Dean combined his life, love, passion and influences to create a unique concert and show experience, with Broadway-worthy dance moves and spontaneous audience interaction called "The Dean Z Show." The show featured Dean's boundless energy and youthful exuberance as he accompanies the audience on an eclectic musical journey into the bygone eras of soul, rockabilly, rock 'n' roll, pop, and rhythm and blues. During the production, the award-winning and internationally acclaimed entertainer performed the music that inspired his passion for performance, including songs from Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Buddy Holly, Michael Jackson, Sam Cooke and so many others. Since its sold out premiere, “The Dean Z Show” has been mesmerizing audiences of all ages across the country, and will continue to do so.
Dean will be presenting “Dean Z – The Ultimate Elvis” at the Clay Cooper Theatre. For tickets and information, call 417 -332-2529; or visit ClayCooperTheatre.com. Also visit Dean’s website: DeanZ.com
This week we welcome Terry Johnson and Kentucky Just Us!
Don’t tell Terry Johnson that dreams don’t come true. Just a country boy from Tyler, Texas, Terry spent his childhood in Texas and Arkansas, fishing, messing around on boats, and working hard at school. He earned an MBA from Texas A&M and went on to build a successful career in the technology industry.
In the summer of 1973, before his sophomore year at college, Terry was working as a carpenter’s assistant at a golf club outside Austin. One night after work one of the golfers knocked on his trailer door. It was Willie Nelson himself. The Red-Headed Stranger passed on a few tunes, playing songs for Terry for almost two hours on one of his road guitars, an old National. Ever since that summer night, Terry has been Willie’s #1 fan. He would go on to sing those same songs thousands of times, practicing Willie’s signature, soulful baritone for friends and family and, eventually, around dark and smoky karaoke bars in Northwest Arkansas. He would hold on to that National guitar for the rest of his life.
One night last winter, at a spot outside Branson, Missouri, a Legends in Concert associate heard Terry sing Always on my Mind and walked over to his table. “Who are you?” He asked. “ Nobody,” said Terry. “Man, I have never heard anyone who sounded exactly like Willie Nelson before. I’m with Legends in Concert and you really need to come in and audition."
Things happened pretty fast after that, and the next thing Terry knew he was given the opportunity to perform at Legends as Willie. This marked an important new chapter in Terry’s life: fulfilling a lifelong goal of making people happy singing their favorite Willie songs — and in front of a real audience. Here’s to the Legends in Concert team that believed in a 67-year-old retired businessman who just so happened to sing like Willie and had always wanted to do it in front of an audience like you!
Legends in Concert is located along the famous 76 Strip and has been a part of the Branson entertainment scene over two decades. Two power- packed hours of fabulous entertainment awaits you!
This world famous live tribute show features an amazing cast of all-star entertainers assembled on one stage in one of the most sought after productions in the world. Don't miss out on this extravagant concert in Branson.
To order tickets or for more information call the Dick Clark American Bandstand Box Office: 417-339-3003 or visit www.LegendsInConcert/Branson
Just Us is a national touring band combining Traditional Bluegrass, Classic Country, and Gospel into a sound uniquely their own. The group features tight harmonies, strong instrumentation, storytelling lyrics, and entertainment no one else can provide. While being young artists they have quickly established themselves as a professional band captivating and entertaining audiences of all ages. The group has recently discovered a passion for songwriting and have been recording and releasing their original material.
The band released their album "Mountains of Home" in April of 2022. This album includes material the group has written, including the title track, as well as fresh takes on traditional songs like Fraulein and I Wonder How the Old Folks Are at Home. Songs off of the album have quickly climbed bluegrass, Gospel, and country charts. Their version of "Rank Stranger" that was #1 on Mountain Bluegrass with David Pugh for 6 weeks in a row. The entire album "Mountains of Home" was #5 on Airplay Direct in the month of April. Their first Official Music Video debuted at #13 on The Bluegrass Standard Video Chart.
Kentucky Just Us has performed at many festivals, theaters, and venues across the country including performances at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, TN, Rory Feek's Hardison Mill Homestead Hall, Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO. Kentucky Just Us received scholarships to the Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music from the Bluegrass Heritage Foundation at their first performance at the Bloomin Bluegrass Festival in Farmers Branch, TX. In 2018 Kentucky Just Us were named the first ever Artists in Residence at the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and Museum and in 2019 received 1st place in the KSMU Youth in Bluegrass Contest at Silver Dollar City.
After receiving such prestigious honors the group remains humble and dedicated to perfecting their craft. "We are so blessed with the opportunity to do what we love as a career and we are looking forward to sharing our music with the world," says Kacey, the fiddle player for the band. Kentucky Just Us continues 2022 touring full time with performances at events across the country. They are scheduled to perform at Dailey and Vincent's American Made Music Festival performing alongside Josh Turner, Gene Watson, The Isaacs, and many more.
You can check out Kentucky Just Us at their website: KentuckyJustUs.com.
This week we welcome the cast of Grand Country Music Hall’s Down Home Country Show!
The Down Home Country Show is the best show in Branson to hear traditional Country Music. With an incredible cast of singers and pickers, you literally step back in time to the golden years of Country Music.
The show stars: "Entertainer of the Year", Jamie Haage, and "Fiddle Player of the Year", Melody Hart.
"Comedian of the Year", Jarrett Dougherty, and all of his crazy characters, will keep you in tears. The boys in the band will amaze you with their many talents.
Featuring the best of Classic Country, Western Swing and Gospel music, this show brings to life the music you will never forget. Enjoy all the songs that made you fall in love with Country Music.
For more information on Down Home Country,
call 417-335-2484, or visit GrandCountry.com.
Showtime is 10am! If you miss this show, you've missed Branson!
This week we welcome Barbara Fairchild!
Barbara Fairchild's vibrant personality, her love for humor and storytelling along with her extraordinary talent for singing country and gospel music make her one of the finest entertainers you will see. She has a sincere warmth that flows out of her to everyone she meets, whether on the street or as a member of the audience in one of her shows.
Barbara performs with her very talented husband, Roy Morris. They are really in love, and it shows. In the tradition of other husband and wife teams that brought laughter to millions, Barbara and Roy have a natural flare for comedy that is delightful to experience. They are such an important part of the Branson Entertainment Community.
Their Sunday Morning Worship Service that began in 1992 has continued to be a source of inspiration to the thou- sands of Branson visitors who attend each year. Countless people say. "A trip to Branson is not complete without being with Barbara and Roy on Sunday Morning." Their special Veteran's Service, is so important to them, held dur- ing Branson's Veteran's Homecoming Week in November. They believe we owe more to our Veteran's than we could ever repay and take every opportunity to let our nation's heroes know how important they are. Barbara and Roy's faith is their foundation and the most important aspect of their lives.
Throughout Barbara's exciting and extensive career she has received many awards and honors. Her nomination for two prestigious Grammy Awards, one for her #1 country hit, "The Teddy Bear Song" and the other in the music for children category, "Lullaby for Teddy" are highlights in her career. She is recognized as one of the finest female entertainers in Country Music. Barbara was one of Ralph Emery's favorite guests during the years he hosted the top- rated "Nashville Now" show on the TNN television network. Ralph even trusted her to be a guest host for him at times in his absence. Through that show Barbara Fairchild became a household name to thousands of viewers.
Barbara's talent has not diminished through the years and you can often see her these days on the RFD Network along with many of her peers on the very popular "Country Family Reunion" hosted by Bill Anderson.
Among the many television appearances during her career include, "The Tonight Show," Hee Haw," "A Salute to Country Music," " The CMA Country Music Awards," and the three part special, "A Country Homecoming," hosted by Ralph Emery. She has made several appearances on CBN (The 700 Club) and TBN and two tribute specials to the Legendary Dottie Rambo. She was thrilled to host her own TV Special, "Barbara Fairchild In England" on the BBC network, just to name a few.
Barbara continues to tour and sing. For her complete tour schedule visit BarbaraFairchild.com.
This week we welcome Rick McEwen!
Branson’s Imax is hosting Rick McEwen’s The Gambler Show...and it’s a big deal!
Any longtime loyal fan of Branson has likely enjoyed a show that featured the talented McEwen, including The Jim Stafford Show, where he spent nearly 14 years pickin’ and singing to the delight of audiences night after night!
A sensational singer and bass player, it’s especially exciting to learn that Rick McEwen is headlining his own show on the Little Opry Theatre stage at the IMAX Entertainment Complex!
“The Gambler” will feature this legendary artist’s favorite gospel, classic rock, bluegrass, and classic country songs
In addition to being a sought-after entertainer in Branson, Rick McEwen has served as a producer for several shows, and spent many years performing in Nashville. His resume also includes performing with country music greats like Earl Scruggs and Webb Pierce, as well as bluegrass legends like The Dillards.
Show times are Sunday, Monday and Wednesday at 2pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Imax Little Opry Box Office: 417-335-4832, or visit: BransonImax.com.
This week welcome Missouri bluegrass favorites, Route 3!
From Southern Missouri, award winning Bluegrass Band ROUTE 3 is comprised of veteran musicians that have performed at venues all over the mid-west as well as nation wide. With a traditional sound, many originals, and great instrumentation, they bring a hard driving bluegrass sound.
Route 3 are recipients of the 2020 Arkansas Country Music Awards, Bluegrass Artist of the Year Award.
Members of the group include:
Jason Jordan: When nine-year-old Jason Jordan met Bill Monroe, he got to play his mandolin, and his love for bluegrass music began. Shortly after that, Jason began playing mandolin in his first band, an all-youth band called The Parking Lot Pickers. Jason subsequently was a founding member of Just In Tyme. He started writing and arranging his own songs. Shortly after he received an invitation to join Brightwater Junction as their guitar player. Jason co-wrote the song Captain that was recorded and made popular by Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, and also wrote seven of the songs on the Route 3 debut album.
Doug Clifton: At the age of 12, Doug Clifton began playing bass at his home Church, Macedonia Freewill Baptist in
the Southwest Missouri town of Purdy. Soon after, he and best friend Brandon Rickman, along with Brandon’s brother Heath and dad, Gary, formed The Rickmans. In 2000, Doug was a part of New Reflections, winners of the S.P.B.G.M.A International Band contest in Nashville, Tennessee that year. Doug has played with multiple bands over the years including The Messengers, Breakaway, The Signature Quartet, The Kellys, The Drifters, Roaring River Sound and New Road.
Gaylon Harper: In 1986, Gaylon started learning banjo at home and attending weekend festivals with friends. It wasn't long before he was playing with a local traditional bluegrass band, Jim Orchard and The Bressler Brothers. While traveling the bluegrass circuit with them, Gaylon met the Bob Lewis Family. Shortly after, he was given the opportunity to join theirband. In 1994, Gaylon and wife, Katrina, started a group with his two brothers to form The Harpers. 2009 begin the biggest adventure with the Lord so far, when Gaylon and his family begin a full-time music ministry as The Harper Family. In 2010, The Harper Family won the S.P.B.G.M.A International Band competition. A highlight is when Crossroads Recording signed them to their Pisgah Ridge label in 2013. Gaylon came off the road and became music minister at First Baptist of Birch Tree, MO.
Roy Bond: Roy attended his first bluegrass show at the age of 12 and was instantly hooked. He soon began learning to play guitar and study music. Roy has been performing on stage since he was 13. He became a member of the Current River Opry show for the last two years of its 45 year run at the age of 14. After that, Roy became a member of Jim Orchard & The Ozark Bluegrass Boys where he stayed for 13 years. He has also done a considerable amount of fill in and part time work with many Ozark based bands including The Bressler Brothers, The Baker Family, Kirby Clark, and many more.
Route 3 just got signed to Pine Castle Records. You can see them perform at the upcoming Treasure Lake Bluegrass Festival. For more information visit their website: Route3Bluegrass.com
This week we welcome Rhonda Vincent and Bobby Marquez!
Bluegrass award-winner Rhonda Vincent began her professional music career at the age of five, playing drums with her family’s band, the Sally Mountain Show. She picked up the mandolin at eight and the fiddle at ten, performing with the family band at festivals on weekends.
Rhonda struck out on her own, singing with Grand Ole Opry star, Jim Ed Brown. Her opportunity eventually led to a deal with Rebel Records. Her work caught the attention of Giant Nashville’s president, James Stroud, who signed Vincent to record two contemporary country albums.
After Giant, she signed with Rounder Records where her passion for traditional bluegrass music flourished. She made her label debut in 2000 with Back Home Again, recorded with her band, The Rage. She showcases her hard-driving, high-energy contemporary bluegrass on The Storm Still Rages in 2001, One Step Ahead in 2003, Ragin’ Live in 2005, All American Bluegrass Girl in 2006, and Good Thing Going in 2008.
In 2000, Vincent won her first in a string of seven Female Vocalist of the Year Awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association. In 2001, she won the Entertainer of the Year Award. In 2011, Vincent released a collaboration album with Gene Watson titled Your Money and My Good Looks. During the 2020 Branson Christmas season, Rhonda produced and starred in her own show, Rhonda Vincent Christmas In Branson. She has a brand new album Music Is What I See.
Rhonda is constantly thinking of new adventures, songs, opportunities, and she loves the excitement and challenge of putting together a plan at the last minute. Anyone who has ever worked with Rhonda Vincent, knows they must be ready at a moment’s notice. There could be an impromptu recording session, a midnight drive to Canada to see Niagara Falls, a video shoot, or even a jam session aboard the Larry’s Country Diner/Country’s Family Reunion Cruise. Her motto is to always be ready for anything. It’s one of the secrets to her success.
For more information and tour dates, visit her website: RhondaVincent.com
Bobby Marquez has a charismatic smile and refreshing, heartfelt honky-tonk style that stirs an energy with audiences around the globe. That music has earned the Texas-born singer/songwriter some notable honors with a Grammy considered song, multiple Academy of Western Artists Awards, CMA of Texas Awards and induction into the legendary Wheeling Jamboree.
Bobby Marquez has charted songs on the Music Row Chart, Texas Music Chart and several overseas music charts with tours across the U.S., Australia, Ireland and beyond.
Bobby Marquez has been seen on national television shows, Larry’s Country Diner, The Penny Gilley Show, Better Nashville, Cheyenne Country, Studio 23 Nashville and Country Fix. His music is heard worldwide on radio. Satellite listeners can tune-in to Willie’s Roadhouse to hear Marquez’s music as well.
Marquez’s songwriting has been recorded by everyone from Alan Jackson and Ty Herndon to George Strait, Johnny Rodriguez and Rhonda Vincent. Bobby continues to tour, performing to crowded dancehalls, festivals and large concert stages which hehas shared with Ray Price, Mel Tillis, Johnny Rodriguez, Martina McBride, David Ball, Janie Fricke, Johnny Lee and Lonestar... just to name a few.
Bobby is also the host and founder of the annual St. Jude Children’s Hospital benefit, Country With Heart, as well as the Country Campfire Pickin’ virtual concert series.
For more information, fans can follow Bobby at www.bobbymarquez.com or www.facebook.com/bobbymarquezmusic.
This week we welcome Jana King Evans!
Jana is a singer, songwriter, vocal arranger, and producer of recording sessions and stage shows. Growing up in Texas, Jana completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal and Choral Music and Music Arranging, and did Masters work in Music Theater and Music Theory at Texas Tech University.
Jana lived in Nashville over 15 years and is most recognized for her many years on national television on TNN (The Nashville Network) as lead background vocalist/vocal arranger on the Ralph Emery show, “Nashville Now”.....and on the Crook and Chase Show, “Music City Tonight”. She also can be seen on RFD TV’s Family Reunion series on the “Second Generation” show.
Jana has sung background and arranged vocals on 100’s of recordings with artists such as Neil Diamond, Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks, Clint Black, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Randy Travis, Ronnie Milsap, Pam Tillis, Lorrie Morgan, Loretta Lynn, Roy Rogers, Marty Stuart, Clay Walker, etc. etc. etc.. Jana is also recognized for her commercial/jingle career in Nashville, Chicago, and Dallas. Some of the ones to note are:
”Like a good neighbor...STATE FARM is there”
“The heartbeat of America....that’s TODAY’S CHEVROLET” “OH, I’d love to be and OSCAR MEYER WEINER” “BUDWEISER BEER” and “TOYOTA”
After marrying her husband who is a native of Branson, Jana has been a featured performer in various shows with the likes of Pam Tillis, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, Mickey Gilley and Johnny Lee, Les Brown and the Band of Renown, Doug Kershaw, etc. (And now....FINALLY...the stage of Branson Country USA)!
In the past few years, Jana has been on a national tour with the Memphis Symphony orchestra singing along with live footage of Elvis Presley, produced by Priscilla Presley Productions, and with Deana Martin in Las Vegas in honor of Dean Martin’s 100th year birthday celebration.
Jana has had success as a songwriter and is most proud of her a song called “Jump Into My Fire”.....recorded by the late great Etta James on her Grammy nominated Island Records album “7 Year Itch”.
Jana’s latest vocal project is on the newly released movie soundtrack, “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”. Jana recorded along with other Nashville session singers for the background and choral tracks under the direction of Dave Cobb (Christ Stapleton’s producer) at the RCA Recording Studio in Nashville.
Besides the music business, Jana spends most of her time now in community service as the new Administrator of the Branson Veterans Memorial Garden!
This week we welcome Down Home Country!
The Down Home Country Show is the best show in Branson to hear traditional Country Music. With an incredible cast of singers and pickers, you literally step back in time to the golden years of Country Music.
The show stars: "Entertainer of the Year", Jamie Haage, and "Fiddle Player of the Year", Melody Hart.
"Comedian of the Year", Jarrett Dougherty, and all of his crazy characters, will keep you in tears. The boys in the band will amaze you with their many talents.
Featuring the best of Classic Country, Western Swing and Gospel music, this show brings to life the music you will never forget. Enjoy all the songs that made you fall in love with Country Music.
For more information on Down Home Country, call 417-335-2484, or visit GrandCountry.com.
Showtime is 10am! If you miss this show, you've missed Branson!
This week we welcome Mary Lou Turner! Born in Hazard, Kentucky, Mary Lou Turner began her career as a regular on the famous Wheeling Jamboree radio show on WWVA in Wheeling, West Virginia. She began turning heads in 1974 with her first popular song, “All That Keeps Me Going”. She followed that success with several other songs that reached the top 50 on the U.S. Country Charts, including “It's Different With You”, “Love It Away”, and “Cheatin' Overtime”.
Though a star in her own right, she may be best known for the duets she sang with Bill Anderson. The duo teamed up to produce hits in the top 25 on the U.S. Country Charts, including “I'm Way Ahead of You” and “Where Are You Going, Billy Boy”. The pair released “Sometimes” in 1976 which reached Number 1 on the Country Charts. That same year, she and Bill also released “That's What Made Me Love You” reaching number 7 with that hit. Mary Lou has performed in the theaters of Branson, Missouri for many years. She starred with both Boxcar Willie and Buck Trent, before joining the Grand Ladies of Country Music Show.
She has a new album “A Sentimental Music Journey” recorded with the Heart Of Texas label. The album has 13 of Mary Lou’s favorite songs including a duet with radio host, Dallas Wayne, of Sirius XM fame. Mary Lou commented, “ I’ve been singing since I was 12. I thought that a sentimental music journey was a good theme with some songs that are my favorites through the years. I also want to thank Tracy and Charla Pitcox for making this CD possible for the Heart Of Texas label. They are true friends to me and all of Country Music.”
Mary Lou was awarded the “Living Legend” award during 2021 Branson Terry Awards Show. She and her husband, David, call the Ozarks home. For more information, visit her Facebook page.
This week we welcome The Sons of the Pioneers!
The Sons of the Pioneers singularly built a new genre and library of music that is an American original, one that has become synonymous with the American West, and that continues to enthrall generations of listeners worldwide. Although others have followed, although others have openly emulated them and have subsequently added to the genre of Western music, the Pioneers were the first and the best. They are an essential part of Americana.
What would the West be without its own style of music? When you think of the West you think of natural beauty, a cultural mind-set and a very distinctive type of music. The term evokes the image of the singing cowboy and of songs that paint vivid mental pictures of tumbling tumbleweeds, cool water, tall timber and that ornery strawberry
roan. The West has always had its lore and its heroes, but until the 1930s a distinct type of music was not part of that lore. Starting in the early 1930s the film and radio industry changed all that forever.
From the earliest days of the film industry the cowboy has been a favorite movie subject. Westerns became the bread and butter of most early studios. When musical segments were added to broaden a movie's interest the "singing cowboy" was born, and it created mega stardom for people like Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Tex Ritter and Rex Allen. Enter the Sons of the Pioneers in 1934.
The Pioneers were different right from the start. While most Western screen stars were singing traditional sweetheart songs, the Sons of the Pioneers sang about the West itself. Their songs painted unforgettable images and stories of horses, cattle, cowboys, "night herds", canyons and prairies. Many of these songs were original compositions freshly penned by the founding members: Bob Nolan, Tim Spencer and Roy Rogers (then known as Leonard Sly). Together they created a whole new library of music. The group and their music garnered millions of national and international fans through appearances in over 90 movies, numerous radio shows, major label recording projects and later television appearances.
They have accumulated more honors and awards than any other group or performer in Western music, including coveted awards from the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music, Western Music Association and National Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Today the Sons of the Pioneers are still mesmerizing long-term fans and creating new ones. They still play to sell-out crowds and standing ovations. New fans are attracted by the current members' musical ability and by those songs that haunt you long after the concert with the mystique of the great American West. As Doug Green said, "It's not something that is connected to hit records and charts and fads. It's just an eternal interest in the American West and they sing about it beautifully and it's written beautifully and that's something that just will never go out of style."
For more information visit their website: TheShepherdOfTheHills.com or SonsOfThePioneers.org.
This week we welcome Jeannie Kendall!
Formed in 1969, The Kendall's recorded an album for Stop Records, from which a single was released in 1970: a cover of John Denver's "Leaving on a Jet Plane" (previously a hit for Peter, Paul & Mary). The Kendall's version narrowly missed the top fifty on the U.S. country charts. The duo signed with Dot Records in 1972, and released an album and two singles, "Two Divided By Love", (a cover version of The Grass Roots' pop hit) and "Everything I Own" a cover of Bread's 1972 hit.
Eventually, the Kendall's parted with their record label, before signing with the independent Ovation Label in 1977. Their first single for the label, a cover of Kitty Wells hit "Making Believe", made the lower regions of the charts (Emmylou Harris' version of "Making Believe" hit the U.S. Country Charts around the same time). It was the Kendall's 2nd single on Ovation, a "cheating" song called "Heaven's Just a Sin Away", that proved to be their breakthrough. The song topped the country charts and was also a minor crossover pop hit, and won the 1978 Grammy for Best Country Vocal by a Duo or Group.
In 1981, after Ovation Records closed, the duo signed with Mercury Records and continued to have hits with "Teach Me To Cheat" and "If You're Waitin' On Me (You're Backin' Up), which both made the country top 10. More hits followed with "Movin' Train" and "Precious Love," which made the top 20.
Their last #1 was 1984's "Thank God For the Radio". The Kendall's had many more Top 20 hits in the 80's and early 90's. The also had a supper club in Gulf Shores, Alabama and a theater in Branson, MO.
After her fathers death in 1998 Jeannie has pursued a solo career. In 2013, she joined forces with entertainer Carl Acuff Jr. who now opens the show and sing's with Jeannie to recreate that unique sound and those favorite "Kendall's" hits.
For more information, check her website: JeannieKendall.com
This week we welcome SIX!
Dubbed "An Orchestra of Human Voices", SIX combines the musical precision, masterful showmanship and boundless energy of six remarkable brothers into a truly amazing entertainment experience.
Brothers Barry, Kevin, Lynn, Jak, Owen and Curtis have been singing together for more than 40 years perfecting not only their breathtaking harmonies, but also mastering the sounds of countless instruments and special effects using nothing but their voices. Now in their 14th Award Winning season in Branson, SIX is still captivating audiences with their powerhouse vocals, brilliant comedy, and heart-warming family stories like only true brothers can.
Following the show, the brothers will be available to take pictures, and would love the opportunity to meet your friends and family. You may even want to get a picture with their six matching Camaros! Don't miss your chance to see SIX, voted Branson's "417 Show of the Year", "Best Stage Show", and "Best Show", in Branson, MO.
To order tickets or for more information call the Dick Clark American Bandstand Box Office: 417-339-3003; or visit their website: www.TheSixShow.com.
This week we welcome The Blackwoods!
"The Blackwoods" bring the Blackwood family's gospel music tradition to the Branson stage! The son of gospel music royalty, R.W. Blackwood, and his talented wife, Donna, carry on the family tradition of uplifting, inspirational, and just plain good gospel music!
After spending 15 years entertaining packed venues in Pigeon Forge, the Blackwood family has made their home in Branson. They'll be performing the music made famous by the Blackwood Brothers Quartet, and sharing heartwarming stories from the family's history in music.
They also include songs in honor of some of the greatest performers in the world, the very performers they've had the privilege to work with. A solid tribute to honor our Veterans in this great country serves to wrap up this one of a kind of performance. Relive the excitement of the Blackwood Singers performing with Elvis Presley, Charlie Daniels, the Oak Ridge Boys, the Gatlin Brothers, Johnny Cash, Statler Brothers, Barbara Mandrell, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, Ronnie Milsap, and the list goes on!
The Blackwood Brothers Quartet was blessed with scores of Dove Awards and multiple Grammy's, and all that incredible talent runs in the family! So, if legendary gospel music touches something inside you, then make plans now to be in Branson for "The Blackwoods!" Blackwood FEVER... Catch it!
For more information, call the Americana Box Office: 417-544-8700 or visit their Facebook page: The Blackwoods.
This week we welcome the Branson Famous Baldknobbers!
In 1959, Mabe brothers Bob, Bill, Lyle, and Jim began performing twice a week in a converted roller skating rink on the Lake Taneycomo lakefront to entertain visiting fishermen at night. The brothers combined popular country tunes with Ozark Mountain music and threw in a dash of comedy to entertain audiences. Their instruments were simple like: the washtub bass, banjo, Dobro, and a mule’s jawbone for rhythm. Little did they know in the late 1950's that they would become the founding fathers of Branson's music show industry.
The brothers combined popular country tunes with Ozark Mountain music and threw in great, hillbilly comedy to entertain growing Branson audiences.
In 1969, the Baldknobbers, as the brothers called themselves, built a theater on Highway 76, making their act the longest continuously running show in town.
From their humble beginnings, they began growing in popularity and size, eventually converting an old skating rink into Branson’s first live- entertainment theatre. Now 63 years later, the big-red curtain raises every night at 8pm to entertain Branson visitors.
You can check out the Branson Famous Baldknobbers at their website: Baldknobbers.com, or call their theatre at 417-231-4999.
This week we welcome the cast of the Comedy Jamboree!
Winner of “Branson’s Best Comedy Show”, you don’t want to miss this amazing comedy and musical extravaganza! This highly entertaining variety show is famous for family-friendly Ozarks fun!
Comedy Jamboree features some of the funniest comedians in Branson! Starring funny guys, Applejack, Stretch McCord, and Andy Parks, get ready to laugh over and over again. The whole family will get a kick out of the audience participation. Sometimes the guests steal the show.
The Jamboree Singers; pianist extraordinaire, Tracy Heaston, and the award- winning Grand Band, will rock you with kickin’ live music, talent and showmanship. From hilarious, clean comedy and floor-pounding dancing, to today's country hits and gospel classics, this show is a HOT TICKET!
Celebrating 18 amazing years, the Comedy Jamboree is the standard for comedy in Branson. For an amazing afternoon of fun, the Comedy Jamboree is a MUST SEE. You will laugh until it hurts!
Comedy Jamboree is performed daily at 3:00 p.m., January through December, only at Grand Country Music Hall! For more information, call the Grand Country Box Office: 417-335-2484 or visit GrandCountry.com.
This week we welcome C.J. Newsom!
C.J. Newsom's Classic Country & Comedy gives Branson the best of country's legendary ladies!
Newsom has been delighting audiences with the music of the incomparable Patsy Cline for years, and now her show features huge hits from other leading ladies of song, including Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Judy Garland.
You'll also hear songs from some of music's most famous male artists -- hits from the likes of Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, and more will share the spotlight.
On top of all that phenomenal music, you'll be treated to one of the area's most beloved comedians, the king of Branson comedy, Mr. Terry Sanders!
For everyone who loves to hear her sing Patsy, C.J. Newsom's Classic Country & Comedy will still give Branson audiences the songs they love, including "Sweet Dreams," "Walkin' After Midnight," "She's Got You," "I Fall to Pieces," and the sensational song penned by the legendary Willie Nelson, "Crazy." And C.J.'s amazing vocals will be backed by one of Branson's best live bands! Don't miss out on this extravagant concert in Branson.
For more information call 417-544-8700 or visit AmericanaTheatreBranson.com.
This week welcome Stevie Lee Woods!
Stevie Lee Woods was born and raised in Bluefield, Virginia in a family with an extensive musical background. His Father, Buddy Woods was a lead guitarist and previously had worked as a sideman for such artists as Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs, Eddie Arnold and a number of other distinguished musicians. His brothers David and Greg are also gifted musicians who played music in Virginia and Florida after Stevie decided to move to Nashville TN in the early ’90s.
The move to Nashville ended up being a good move for Stevie as he landed his first record deal in 1993. His first top-20’s opened many doors for Stevie as it landed him major representation by such agencies as Buddy Lee Attractions and World Class Talent in Nashville. From such representation, Stevie began his career appearing and touring with such artists as Lorrie Morgan, John Michael Montgomery, Martina McBride, Diamond RIO, Brooks, and Dunn. He was also an annual guest on the annual Country across America Tour which was a Major Country Music Extravaganza.
Stevie has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry as well as hosted his own Television show in the ’90s along with the recording artist Sylvia for the USA Network entitled Today’s Hot Country. In 1998, with his career moving in a fast past direction Stevie decided to stop touring or traveling due to ailing family members. He decided to move back home and help in any way he could and come back to music at a later date.
Well now he’s back, and this time in Branson! Voted best new show in Branson 2020 this Grand Ole Opry style show is everything people say it is. A new twist to Branson but still keeping true to Branson roots Nashville Roadhouse Live lives up to its motto, “Where Country Meets Rock N' Roll”. Stevie Lee Woods brings not only his Worldwide years of success and entertainment to the show but also some of your favorite artists from today and yesterday.
Join the ever-talented Stevie Lee Woods and Kathie Baillie & The Boys for the Nashville Roadhouse Live Show! This show is ran in Grand Ole Opry-style fashion, with new guests each and every week! This show has received outstanding reviews and is rated as one of the best new shows in Branson! For more information, call the Branson Star Theatre Box Office: 417-320-3418 or visit BransonStarTheater.com.
For our last show of the 2021 season we welcome Dalena Ditto!
Two-time female entertainer of the year Dalena Ditto, and her award-winning band “The Boys”, perform the hit songs and tell the epic stories of a uniquely American art form called country music.
Country music singer and recording artist Dalena Ditto has performed throughout the world and for the past 19 years has been proud to call Branson, Missouri, home.
Born in Guthrie, Iowa, Dalena began her career on the road at the age of three with her parents. Her father, Tennessee Floyd, was a renowned performer with the Red Foley Show, Lil' Jimmy Dickens, Johnny Cash and Ms. Minnie Pearl.
Country Evolution takes you back to the humble beginnings were country music began and brings you up-to-date on the incredible lives of those singers and songwriters to pour their heart and soul into telling the American story, one
song at a time. You will love the journey Dalena and her award-winning band, “The Boys”, as they perform the hit songs and tell the epic stories of a uniquely American artform called Country Music.
For more information, visit BransonImax.com; or call the Imax Little Opry Box Office: 417-335-4832
This week we present our annual Grand Country Family Christmas Special.
All of your Grand Country favorites gather together for a special hour of Christmas classics.
This week we welcome Mary Lou Turner!
Born in Hazard, Kentucky, Mary Lou Turner began her career as a regular on the famous Wheeling Jamboree radio show on WWVA in Wheeling, West Virginia. She began turning heads in 1974 with her first popular song, “All That Keeps Me Going”. She followed that success with several other songs that reached the top 50 on the U.S. Country Charts, including “It's Different With You”, “Love It Away”, and “Cheatin' Overtime”.
Though a star in her own right, she may be best known for the duets she sang with Bill Anderson. The duo teamed up to produce hits in the top 25 on the U.S. Country Charts, including “I'm Way Ahead of You” and “Where Are You Going, Billy Boy”. The pair released “Sometimes” in 1976 which reached Number 1 on the Country Charts. That same year, she and Bill also released “That's What Made Me Love You” reaching number 7 with that hit.
Mary Lou has performed in the theaters of Branson, Missouri for many years. She starred with both Boxcar Willie and Buck Trent, before joining the Grand Ladies of Country Music Show.
She has a new album “A Sentimental Music Journey” recorded with the Heart Of Texas label. The album has 13 of Mary Lou’s favorite songs including a duet with radio host, Dallas Wayne, of Sirius XM fame. Mary Lou commented, “ I’ve been singing since I was 12. I thought that a sentimental music journey was a good theme with some songs that are my favorites through the years. I also want to thank Tracy and Charla Pitcox for making this CD possible for the Heart Of Texas label. They are true friends to me and all of Country Music.”
Mary Lou was awarded the “Living Legend” award during 2021 Branson Terry Awards Show. She and her husband, David, call the Ozarks home. For more information, visit her Facebook page.