The last week of April pays homage to the past and present of classic Americana, with three sure-to-be knockout performances by three of blues and country’s beloved musicians.
Young Christian bluesman Johnny Lang kicks of the dual weekend of performances April 23, followed by one of Nashville’s finest, Randy Travis on April 24. Country music legend Merle Haggard closes out the month on April 30 at the Emerald Queen Casino.
Jonny Lang
This gospel blues musician got his start early after hearing a local blues band play when he was a 12-year-old in North Dakota. At 15, Jonny Lang got a major record deal, and at 16 he released the critically acclaimed “Lie To Me” album. The 1997 album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s New Artist chart and critics raved about his poise and maturity. Jonny Lang’s fourth major-label CD, “Turn Around” (2006) rose to the top of Billboard’s Christian album chart, and earned him a Grammy nomination for best rock or rap gospel album. His latest sound is the culmination of what might be seen as exponential life changes over the past few years and, though it reflects a fresh music style that revels in complete freedom, is an eclectic layering of blues and rock and gospel. 8:30 p.m. April 23, tickets range from $35 to $65.
Randy Travis
Randy Travis established himself as a singer and performer in the grand tradition of George Jones, Lefty Frizell, Merle Haggard and a handful of others. The success of his singles led to wide-spread demand for live shows, and Randy Travis next set out on an extensive and ongoing tour, taking him across the United States and Canada before record-setting crowds. Randy Travis has set record sales of more than 25 million albums, 22 number one hits, six number one albums, six Grammys, more than a dozen other awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 8:30 p.m. April 24, tickets range from $35 to $65.
Merle Haggard
The word “legend” usually makes an appearance at some point when discussing Merle Haggard. It is an acknowledgement of his artistry and his standing as “the poet of the common man.” It is a tribute to his incredible commercial success and to the lasting mark he has made, not just on country music, but on American music as a whole. The artist was immediately embraced by country fans and he also earned the respect of his peers. In addition to the 40 number one hits, Merle Haggard charted scores of Top Ten songs. He won just about every music award imaginable, both as a performer and as a songwriter, and in 1994 was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His body of work easily places him beside Hank Williams as one of the most influential artists in country music. 8:30 p.m. April 30, $35-70.
For tickets go to http://www.ticketmaster.com or call (888) 831-7655.
