We are really excited about our 2012 season. We are lining up some of your favorite groups as well as some new ones you may not have seen.
The big news is the new dance floor. The serious Flat-Footers have expressed concern about our concrete floor. We hear you and have a wooden dance floor in the planning stages. It should be ready for the first concert.
Our 2012 offerings are are also in the planning stage, but we do have some lined up. This is the schedule so far:
June 2 – Upland Express You can audition the group on youtube if you like http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mfi_tUSj1K0&feature=related
June 9 – Blue Mule
June 16- Lonesome Cowboy Drifters
June 23- No Strings Attached
June 30- Ashlee Blankenship and Friends
July – 7 Windfall
July – 14 White Top Mountain Band
July – 21 Roscoe P and Coal Train
July -26-29 Dark for Floydfest
Aug Dark
Sept – 8 Benefit for Christmas for Children and Silver Bells
UPLAND EXPRESS began in 1974 as a bluegrass band. Over the years, the group has won numerous awards, experienced several personnel changes and periods of dormancy, but through it all, there remains the tradition of quality music generated by its members. The present incarnation of Upland boasts a eclectic song list, rendering the group a unique reputation as a variety band, and reflects well the diverse musical talent and influence of its members. Currently they include
Barry Collins – background vocals, banjo and bass
Barry has been a member of the band since its inception, and has a wall full of ribbons and awards for his banjo expertise. He was named East Coast Banjo Picking Champion in 1976, and Best Bluegrass Banjo in the 2005 competition inGalaxVa. . Barry has also toured theUnited StatesandEuropewith the McPeak brothers.
Garry Collins – lead and background vocals, guitar and bass
Garry joined the band in the late 1970’s as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitar. He had worked several years in country bands and as a soloist, and his solid stage presence and leadership has been indispensable toUpland. Garry has performed in every version of the band since joining
Barry James – lead and background vocals, lead and rhythm guitar and bass
“BJ” began his musical career as a soloist at the age of 16. Three years later, he was offered his first job with the band by the Collins brothers. That version ofUplandlasted from 1982 until 1986. Since then BJ has worked with numerous country dance club bands. Also an accomplished songwriter, BJ’s unique style translates easily from rock to country to bluegrass with equal distinctions
Dara James –lead and background vocals, harmonica, guitar and keyboard
At the age of 16 BJ’s son Dara has been singing in church and in school chorus for several years. Though having joined the band only three years ago, he performs like a veteran. His youthful energy and his penitent for “the blues” has lent a refreshing new twist toUpland’s sound. As Dara progresses, we continue to see great things from this growing young talent!
Upland Express appearing June 2
The White Top Mountain Band – Appearing July 14th
Appearing June 16
LONESOME COWBOY DRIFTERS
The Lonesome Cowboy Drifters bring back the classic sounds of Nashville country music from the 1950s and 1960s as well as many traditional gospel songs done in the classic country music form. From the early popular tunes of Ernest Tubb and Hank Williams to the great songs generated by George Jones and Merle Haggard, the band covers the spectrum of the “golden” years of country music. Songs from Don Gibson, Buck Owens, Porter Wagoner, Johnny Cash and others are featured.
For the past few years the Cowboys have been one of the main performers at the annual Sinkland Farms October Pumpkin Festival. They have also appeared at the Floyd Country Store, Hotel Floyd Summer Concert series, and The River Company Restaurant in Radford. The band got its start awhile ago at a Side Door session in Radford when a few of the members decided it was time to start bringing back the great songs and style of Hank Williams.
The band members include Kendall and Judy Weddle on vocals and guitar, Steve Boone on lead guitar and harmony vocals, and Doug Capobianco on Bass. Bill Adams rounds out the group playing his non-pedal electric steel guitar in the style of the early steel players who were heard on many classic country music recordings.
We still need sponsors and more groups. please email Carter Holliday holliday @swva.net if you can help.
Preceeds from this season’s concerts will be distributed to the following local charities:
RIFF (Reading in Floyd is Fun)
Plenty!
Floyd Emergency Assistance
NRV Literary Volunteeers
NRV Women’s Resource Center
NRV Cares