High Mileage Band to Kick Off 2008 at The Sopchoppy Opry!

Happy New Year Opry Fans!

Just can’t believe we’re into a new year already and the Opry is in the 2nd half of its 8th season!  Thank you all for your fantastic support of the longest running classic country music show in the area, The Sopchoppy Opry!  Musical Coordinator Bob Sims has planned another great year for the Opry’s eleven (11) big shows in 2008!  Just look what’s coming up on January 26!

Bashful Bob didn’t mess around with getting the year off to a good start!  Right out of the gate on January 26 are some of this area’s top performers – the fantastic High Mileage Band is South Bound’s guest for the second hour with popular singer Johnny “Mr. Country” Calloway, harmonica / guitarist / vocalist Byrd Asbell and the dynamic Gospel duo Joel & Judy (Harrison) making guest appearances!

High Mileage continues to evolve  – in music and personnel – since the band’s last appearance on the Opry in 2007!  And with every change, the band continues to refine its unique sound with additional instruments and expand an already extensive musical repertoire!  With the addition of  trumpet player Alden France, some of the brassy tunes of the 70’s like Herb Alpert’s “A Taste of Honey” were added along with some Eagles, Credence Clearwater Revival music and popular TV and movie theme instrumentals!  Tunes from the early years of  rock 'n roll and several classic country tunes make up the band’s 19 song set that is surely to please every Opry fan.  Leader David Kelly says the band is loaded (with talent) and continues to explore new musical directions and play different instrument variations.

“All the members of the band play at least two instruments each and all are good on vocals, too!" says David.  Since our last appearance at the Opry, lead guitarist Doc Mathers has retired and drummer Herman Mathers has moved on to new venues.  Local drummer, Patrick Lima joined us and Mike Sherlock has taken over the primary duties of lead guitarist.  Tony Rizzo on bass/banjo and trumpeter/bass, David Miller complete the group and compliment the talents of all the other members.  I believe the Opry folks will enjoy our music.  We are sure looking forward to playing there on January 26!”

Returning to the Opry and joining South Bound for the first hour of the show is special guest, singer / songwriter Gary “Byrd” Asbell.  An accomplished musician, Byrd plays the harmonica, guitar and sings his own music and other bluegrass and country tunes.  A lawyer by profession, Gary enjoys all kinds of music but plays country and bluegrass in local venues around the local entertainment circuit.  Included in his country / bluegrass repertoire are favorites ‘Truck Drivin’ Man’, ‘Nine Pound Hammer’ and his own song ‘Suzie Gal’.  Gary  played the Opry for the first time in August 2001.

Old friends of the Opry, Joel and Judy Harrison are back for a guest appearance on this show!  The popular Gospel duo, known for their tight harmony and informal song presentation, remain in high demand among the area’s churches, gospel sings and revival meetings.  The couple has a variety of sacred standards that they enjoy presenting to groups of all sizes.  ‘Far Side Banks of Jordon’, ‘May the Circle Be Unbroken’ and ‘I’ll Fly Away’ are some of the songs most requested.  Joel and Judy performed as regular members of Southbound Band in the Opry’s early years.

Johnny “Mr. Country” Calloway has become an ‘almost on every show’ regular at the Opry and has assumed some of the stage announcing duties along with playing rhythm guitar and performing his great vocal renditions of country’s best classic tunes!  Johnny’s powerful voice and stage presence made him a favorite right from the start with Opry regulars and newcomers alike!

Opry fans are reminded that it’s not too late to buy 2008 Season Tickets!  For just $77 enjoy 11 great classic country shows featuring some of this area’s best talent!  See an Opry staff member at the show or call 962-3711.

Curtain time is 7 pm.  Come early and enjoy a sandwich and world class desserts before the show.  Show tickets are $8 and may be purchased by calling (850)962-3711.

Thanks for supporting the Sopchoppy Opry, classic country music & the restoration of historic Sopchoppy High School!

Story by Jesse Quigg, Opry Publicist (volunteer)
Photo Credits: High Mileage  – Suzie Rizzo, band photographer
                       Gary Asbell – Don Pace, Opry Photographer
                        Johnny Calloway – Don Pace Archives
                        Joel & Judy Harrison– Don Pace Archives
    

Written by :

mkwestmark

 

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