Hannah Wolff Returns To El Dorado, 12/8!

Tonight, 12/08...El Dorado will be treated to the return performance of The Hannah Wolff Band, of Oklahoma City, OK. This wonderful artist was fantastic last time she performed at Einstein's, and I'm sure she's set to top that performance tonight!

Performing in El Dorado, AR on 12/8, then Cinema 218 in Texarkana, TX tomorrow night...Hannah & her band are gearing up for an all-out blitz of the Midwest states in the immediate future.

With beauty, talent, a drive for success, and a world-class group of musicians behind her...Hannah Wolff is the total package, and it probably won't be long before we'll be saying, "I saw her back when..."!

Come on out, and check out The Hannah Wolff Band...you won't be sorry!

Adam Dale-Josh Wheeler-Jason Ellis @ The Corner Cafe...

A very entertaining acoustic show last night at The Corner Cafe! There was fantastic attendance, and two acts that certainly filled the bill for quality live music entertainment, the likes of which...we have come to expect from this particular venue.

Starting off the night was the ever popular, and always satisfying, acoustic duo of Josh Wheeler, and Jason Ellis. Whether performing covers, or originals...these guys give it their all! Musicianship, powerful vocals, and a presentation full of emotive content and energy... are the three salient features that mark this duo's ability to pleae an audience. These elements were all evident last night, and certainly set the stage for what was to follow. Fantastic job guys!

Finishing off the night, was Adam Dale, currently of Baton Rouge, LA. This outstanding lyricist/vocalist, is most notably known in this region for his tenure as the frontman, and a substantial part of the creative genius behind the highly poular alternative rock band, The American Tragedy. Certainly no stranger to the music fans here in El Dorado, nonetheless... they were treated to a more intimate perspective of this talented individual as he performed solo-acoustic.

It's difficult to describe what this artist has that captivates an audience so...there are just too many variables. Radiating vocals, intriguing lyrics, frenetic fretwork on the guitar, and an odd sense of timing & delivery that goes beyond the normal pale...these all combine to provide the hearer an insight into the inner workings of this performer's psyche. Maybe that, in iself, is the answer...Adam Dale's music display's Adam Dale in such a powerful manner that one cannot help but be drawn into the total experience. Whatever it is...it certainly is effective, and pleasurable as well.

I look forward to seeing this unique, and personable artist again, and eagerly await his soon coming solo effort on CD. Fantastic job, Mr. Adam Dale... and we look forward to seeing more of you in the future!

JamFest @ The Corner Cafe-11/25!

The Corner Cafe in downtown El Dorado, AR was the place to be last night, as the monthly JamFest was a huge success! The large crowd was treated to some exciting, and varied performances by some of the best in local musicians.

This multi-genre event is always a pleaser...due to the fact that all styles of music are welcome & encouraged. Rock, blues, country, funk, americana & dance music, were all featured last night and the vocal crowd showed it's approval after each number. The people were up & dancing, and their were abundant smiles everywhere.

A great night of music & dancing...a celebration of talent indeed!

JamFest hosted by local songwriter, Chris Loggins...is held on the last friday of each month @ The Corner Cafe at 117 E. Main St. El Dorado, AR from 9pm-1am. This is an all ages event, and there is no cover charge. All performers, musicians & vocalists are invited, as well as encouraged, to take part in these events. Amps, pa's, drumkit provided...bring your instrument of choice, or sticks if you're a drummer, and any special equipment beyond the normal that you might need. Just inform the host that you'd like to perform, & you'll be allowed an opportunity to showcase your talent.

Acoustic Performances Rule The Night On 11/18!

Downtown El Dorado was definitely the epicenter of acoustic performances in our area of the Ark-La-Tex this past saturday night! Five of the best musicians in our region show-cased their acoustic prowess at both The Corner Cafe, as well as upstairs @ The Laredo Grill.

Acoustic duo, Trey Johnson & Josh Guest, performed before a jam-packed room at The Laredo Grill. Trotting out a host of blues, folk-rock, country, and americana...these two demonstrated their remarkable skills at capturing an audience. No matter how many times I see these two on stage, it's aways a pleasurable experience.

Musicianship, as well as pure talent... are always evident at their shows, but their
personable presentation is what captures the audience the most! These two friends enjoy playing to the crowd, and the crowd always reciprocates in kind.
Don't ever miss an opportunity to catch one of their shows!

Meanwhile, across the street at The Corner Cafe...music lovers were treated to a talented trio of performers in Chris Loggins, Brian Martin, and Hokie Gjertsen. Acoustic Cafe is an event that features three of the region's most respected musicians as they perform individual sets each, and then a final set collectively in a collaborative effort to close out the night.

This event just seems to get better each time, and saturday night was no exception. All three were excellent by themselves, but together...they took it to another level. A very appreciative crowd displayed their approval with robust applause & by singing along with great enthusiasm.

To me, that's the attraction of these acoustic performances...it brings the artist & audience closer together than you might experience with a band configuration.
El Dorado certainly experienced that saturday night!

Kings Of The Delta-Smooth Groove @ The Corner!

On friday night, 11/10...The Kings of The Delta, of West Memphis, AR brought an eclectic set-list that contained elements of groovin' , boogie-influenced, jazz-rock fusion laced with blues, and latin beat laced with a generous helping of funk!

This jam/party band blew the doors off The Corner Cafe! The audience was thin at the start, but quickly increased to an enthusiastic, & boisterous crowd. Their musical diversity was a welcome change, and their musicianship was surely enjoyed by everyone who was fortunate to hear them.

Once again, El Dorado has been fortunate to enjoy some of the best in regional musical talent...Can't wait to see this band appear in SouthArk soon!

Lance Younger Debuts in South Arkansas...

This past weekend, 11/3 & 11/4...El Dorado, AR was treated to a fantastic talent from Hammond, LA as The Lance Younger Band made it's debut in south Arkansas!

Starting out at The Corner Cafe on 11/3...this young man quickly established himself in the hearts & minds of everyone who saw his performance. With strong, powerful vocals, and virtuoso fretwork on his Stevie Ray Vaughan signature Stratocaster...Mr. Younger simply blew the audience away.

Backed by Mike Duke on drums, and Tyrone Thigpen on bass, Lance was obviously in his element in a three-pc configuration. With stellar rythm & lead playing, Lance Younger owned the stage for a four-hour show that included a bevy of blues-rock and funk covers that captivated the entire crowd. Standing at the back of the room, and surveying the crowd, I couldn't help but notice the faces of those in the audience...shock, amazement, and satisfaction were evident everywhere.

On 11/4...Lance performed solo-acoustic upstairs at The Laredo Grill, and once again proved his ability to capture a crowd, and carry them along with him! The upstairs lounge was packed with listeners, and Mr. Younger won the crowd over with his performance, as well as...his personality. On the last break of the night, Lance returned to The Corner Cafe briefly, and did a couple of numbers onstage with local musicians Mike Talley on drums, Brian Martin & Kelsey Camp on guitar, and Courtney Paulus on fiddle. The crowd thouroughly enjoyed the collaborative effort, and was gracious with the applause...this artist knows how to impress an audience!

An exciting weekend for the downtown entertainment district, and an incredible debut in this region for The Lance Younger Band...I can't wait to see them again in a couple of months!

Jamtastic!

Thursday night, 9/28 was an awesome "LogJam" hosted by local singer/songwriter Chris Loggins at The Corner Cafe in El Dorado, AR! The Downtown Entertainment District was rockin' as this open format jam featured many local artists sharing the stage together.

Chris Loggins was "on" as usual, and warmed the crowd up for the remainder of the night. Charlie Hankins, Tyrone Thigpen, and Mike Talley all did a wonderful job rounding out the "stage band", and providing a solid backline to support all performers. Young performer, Kelsey Camp, stepped it up a notch and did a yeoman's job on guitar and 4-string electric diddley-bow.
Jordan Camp also hit the stage for several numbers behind the drumkit.

The music selection was definitely eclectic, running the gamut from rock, blues, and americana...to country, funk, and R& B! There was certainly a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy!

These jams are different each week, and seem to take on a life of their own! Come on down next thursday night and start off your weekend with a LogJam!

LogJam @ The Corner Cafe
Thursday Nights Weekly
117 E. Main St.
El Dorado, AR
9pm start
No Cover
All Performers Welcome!

Ouachita Fair Features Two Local Bands...

Fantastic one-two punch last night at the Ouachita County Fair in East Camden, AR! Both bands were in top form, and you could tell they were ready for this performance.

Our Band did an excellent job as they shifted effortlessly between genres & styles, and put on a very tight show. Moving through their set list with military-like precision, one could tell these guys weren't foolin' around! I really enjoy this band, and look forward to them playing more gigs in the area. Our Band will definitely be ready for the upcoming MusicFest...


Detox & The Shakes followed suit, and put on a hell of a show themselves as they performed their brand of road-house rockin' blues! These guys just keep getting better, and they're rapidly becoming one of the better bands in this region.

This band just lines up & comes right at you with everything they've got. Stage presence, musicianship, and a whole lot of fun is what you get from this band! Can't wait to see them at MusicFest!

Thanks to the members of both bands for allowing us backstage with you guys...it was a total blast, and we can't wait to do it again!

Our Band Has Successful Debut Performance...

I ventured away from El Dorado last night, & had a great time at Our Place in Camden, AR. The debut performance of Our Band was a complete success, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves immensely. Good crowd on hand for the majority of the night, and I saw lots of familiar faces.

From the short introduction video at the start of the performance, down to the very last song... you could tell that this band was ready for this show. Each member realized that practice time is over...now, it's for real!

It also didn't take long to recognize the fact that this band will indeed play a little of everything. With seasoned musicians that have years of experience playing in differing bands of differing styles, they certainly run the gamut of musical genres. Their eclectic set list includes classic, current, & southern rock, blues, country, funk...they do it all, and pull it off quite well, at that!

The fact that they use 4 vocalists adds to their versatility as well. It gives them a depth that some bands lack, and it certainly keeps things from becoming stale. I thought Glenn, Wendall, Beau, & Mike all did excellent jobs on the mic, and Barry as well on backup vocals.

You'd expect a band in their first live performance to make a few mistakes, and they did...but surprisingly, very few. They seemed to transition fairly well from one selection to the next, and there was a good flow to the sets. The band seemed to enjoy the pace, and the crowd did too. Overall, I'd expect this band to develop very quickly into a well-oiled machine.

After the second set, Vocalist Glenn Walters, and Mike Duke on acoustic guitar, performed "Bluesman" by Hank Williams, Jr., at the special request of an audience member. Young guitarist, Kelsey Camp, provided back-up rythm on electric guitar. I really enjoyed this little break in the order, and it seemed a fitting bridge between the sets.

I found Our Place to be a very nice venue for a live music performance. The sound was a little too loud on the first few songs, but it didn't take the sound man long to level things out, and it was excellent for the remainder of the night. The staff were very pleasant, and the beverages were ice-cold...nice place to hear a good band, for sure.

All in all, a very enjoyable time...the way it ought to be!

Featured Artist Interview: Hannah Wolff

Taking time out from her busy schedule... Hannah Wolff was gracious & kind enough to indulge a few interview questions, giving us a peek into the creative mind of an up & coming musical artist.


BluesDawg: Describe Hannah Wolff: Tell us a little something about yoursef...background & brief history, influences, motivation.

Hannah: I’m a hardworking, determined artist completely set on making it in this business. I have never wanted to do anything else but write, sing, play guitar and perform, ever. I’m aware that there are thousands of talented people trying to do the same thing, but I am determined to set myself apart from the masses and be one of the few artists who break through and will endure the test of time.

Music is the thing in life I’m most passionate about, I’m willing to sacrifice a lot in exchange for living my dream. I feel that music is my calling, so I better work my butt off to make sure I achieve my goals. I don’t feel I would be quite as happy doing anything else.

My father was in bands when I was little; he would always soothe me to sleep by playing guitar and singing to me. I suppose he was my first influence. Throughout time I’ve had a very eclectic list of influences including Cyndi Lauper, Aerosmith, Sheryl Crow, Jewel, Fiona Apple, Gloria Estefan, Jeff Buckley, and many, many more.

BluesDawg: Most artists have a seminal point in their lives when it all coalesces for them, and they know that performing will be their life's work & calling...when did this happen for you personally?

Hannah: I was 3 years old moving from California to Florida singing Cyndi Lauper’s Time After Time in my car-seat at the top of my lungs. Well, I don’t think I realized that I could be the voice on the radio specifically at that time, but that’s probably where it all started. I never really had a moment of realization because its just been something that I’ve understood about myself.

BluesDawg: Where does your music/lyrics come from...experiences, emotive conciousness, etc., etc., how do songs develop for you?

Hannah: All my music is autobiographical. There’s a moment when inspiration strikes. I can’t write really unless I have one of those moments; however I can induce them via coffee or driving or listening to new music, etc. Music is sort of a therapy for organizing my thoughts; I’m just lucky, I guess!

BluesDawg: What is the most personally satisfying part of being a performer, & what is the most negative? In your mind, what makes a successful performance?

Hannah: The rejection is a negative aspect that I don’t care for, but it makes my skin thicker. I’m really in the wrong business considering how sensitive I can be! But that’s definitely an issue I need to deal with, so what better way I guess.

There are so many satisfying points. Writing a song that I actually like is really an achievement. I’m definitely my harshest critic. Connecting with an audience during a performance is also incredibly satisfying; the crowd and I feeding off of each others energy is an amazing natural high. A successful performance would include not screwing up; however, if I do screw up, performing with energy hides mistakes from the crowd. If the crowd is satisfied, then I’m satisfied for the most part. I am quite a neurotic perfectionist though, so I don’t know if I’ll ever be 100% satisfied with a performance.

BluesDawg: How important is chemistry between yourself & those you collaborate with?

Hannah: Without chemistry, no collaboration will occur. We’ve got to be on the same page. I haven’t really collaborated much with others and kept the material written. But I hope to soon with the guys I have been playing with for the last few months.

BluesDawg: Here in El Dorado, AR...we have an abundance of aspiring musicians & performers...what advice would you give them?

Hannah: Just keep being persistent with every aspect, be it writing, performing, booking, shopping, etc. Be open to critiques as well. Hard work will beat out talent alone, in my opinion.

BluesDawg: What are your immediate goals & aspirations? What do you see as the next big step for The Hannah Wolff Band?

Hannah: We have just released our second album. I am currently submitting to many labels; we are working on getting national distribution and working with people more connected in the biz. We plan to tour more extensively as the year goes on. I also plan to write some upbeat songs! That’s really hard for me!

Thank you for the time & insight, Hannah, and we certainly look forward to more from you & The Hannah Wolff Band in the future! The Hannah Wolff Band will be appearing at Einstein's in El Dorado, AR on 9/22, and Gypsy Secret Garden in Fayetteville, AR on 9/23.

El Dorado Blues Jam-8/25...A Review.

I had a fantastic time at the monthly blues jam @ Einstein's in El Dorado, AR last night. Host band, Detox & The Shakes, of Camden, AR did a stellar job as they hosted this event for their third time.

The crowd was thin for a good part of the evening, but that certainly didn't put a damper on things at all. There were plenty of participants, and enough enthusiastic music lovers in the crowd to make the evening a total success.

Detox & The Shakes really impressed me with several original tunes. Their first was a slow-drag blues song with Derek MaCasland pounding out some powerful vocals. This young man can really wail! With a style very similiar to Jeff Healey, this vocalist captures your attention & holds it! They also performed a couple of blues-rockers that got everyone revved up & ready for the rest of the night's performances.
Though this band has only been performing publicly for a few months, they have certainly gotten up to speed very quickly.

Once again, I was reminded of just how fortunate we are in this little corner of south arkansas to have such a remarkable pool of musical talent. Each & every musician or vocalist that hit the stage did an excellent job. What amazes me is that a good portion of these talented performers are not currently in bands. I believe there are enough around to start up several new projects!

There were several individuals who hit the stage last night just for vocals, and even one free-style rapper who got down to a serious blues beat. I even got in on the action myself with some improvisational lyrics to an impromptu jam the guys threw together. I didn't see anyone leave, so I guess I didn't do too awful bad!

All in all, it was another successful jam and an awful lot of fun to boot! These events have been going on for just under two years now, and I certainly hope they continue. Some folks say the blues is dying...well, not in El Dorado, AR it's not!

Dave Almond @ The Corner Cafe-8/19...A Review.

Another stellar performance by the man from Cale, AR last night at the Acoustic Cafe show at the Corner Cafe in El Dorado. This well-known regional performer known by the moniker, "Worthless Dave"...proved once again that he is anything but worthless! Perhaps priceless would be the more accurate appelation to ascribe to this artist, seeing as how he has earned the appreciation & respect of music lovers in this area, and beyond.

How does one describe the music Dave Almond produces? Is it country, blues, folk, or americana? In my mind, it's just great music...plain, pure, and simple! Certainly, one can recognize elements from these styles in his repetoire, but the glue that holds it all together seems to be unique to this individual performer. I've seen people struggle to define this intangible ingredient by using terms like "feel", or "soul", and it's highly possible they're correct in that assumption, for Dave seems to put his heart totally & completely into his musical stylings. But whatever you call it...it's definitely there, and apparent to the listeners.

About as humble and unassuming performer as I've ever seen...he almost seems surprised sometimes that audiences react so positively to his onstage performances. Personally, that makes him even more credible as a worthy musician in my mind. It speaks of the fact that his music is created from an honest source of inspiration, and that there's nothing synthetic about it. Other performers have recognized this, and have paid him the highest compliment by requesting permission to cover his songs...always being careful to maintain the integrity of the composition.

Another interesting observation is the simple fact that anytime a Dave Almond song is performed, whether by himself or other musicians, there are always people in the crowd who sing along word for word, verse by verse! This, in itself, is a compliment of major proportions to any artist, and one that does not go unnoticed.

I've seen Dave perform many times, in many different configurations and accompanied by many other fine musicians. But in my mind, Dave Almond on a stage, by himself, with just his guitar and that ten gallon hat...is simply the best!

Great performance last night as always, Dave...and we certainly look forward to the next!

Chris Loggins & The Brass Tacks-Summer Concert Series!

The Mix 96 Summer Concert Series will conclude this friday night, 8/18, in downtown El Dorado from 8pm - 1opm in the city parking lot across from the historic Rialto theatre!

This free outdoor concert series has been an enormous success, and there's no better way to end it than with Chris Loggins & The Brass Tacks! A hometown favorite if there ever was one, this talented individual and the all-star supporting cast around him will no doubt leave it all on the stage! If you've never seen this group perform before, then by all means don't miss this one!

There will be prizes & give-aways, ice-cold beer, special opening act, and a great time will be had by all!

Come on over & party down outside, then head on into one of the fine venues or bars for a perfect finish to a great night!

Loggins & The Brass Tacks will leave no doubt as to why they are one of the most popular performing acts in South Arkansas!

Mellow Down Easy Returns To El Dorado-8/26!

On December 3, 2005, @ Einstein's in El Dorado, AR...a small, but extremely appreciative crowd was treated to one of the best live acts to come through our area. Mellow Down Easy of Nashville, TN wandered in & blew the doors off the place!

This extremely talented trio transported an entire audience to another place. Shade's of 60's and 70's rock wound through a tapestry of sound that hailed back to bands like Cream, The Yardbirds, and many lesser-known underground acts. Coming off somewhere between The Black Crowes & Led Zepplin, I was intrigued at the varying elements used in their music. Blues, 60's & 70's era rock riffs...even some Country was evident in their performance. These guys were extremely eclectic, but also very satisfying to hear & watch.

I was impressed with the fact that they were at the point of exhaustion when they walked into the place, but once they hit the stage & began to feed on the crowd's reaction, they took off like a barreling freight train! The lead guitarist/vocalist, Andrew Adkins, broke a string on two guitars... but snatched up the last & final one to finish the show. Daryl Dasher, bassist/vocalist, was nothing short of impressive, while drummer, Rodney Russel, was remarkably solid on percussion. These guys just reach out & grab you, then take you along with them to the finish!

There was a connection made with the audience during the performance, and most definitely after! The after-party for this one has now taken it's place in the annals of local lore!

A fantastic band, and a great group of down to earth musicians who really love this town, and have looked forward to their chance to return. Let's welcome these guys back, and fill the house because this will be special!

deaconBlack Set To Rock El Dorado-8/18!

The guys from Homer, LA are set to rock the house @ Einstein's in El Dorado, AR this friday night! Nothing slick or overdone with this crew...they promise only to bring hard-driving, in your face, southern-fried power rock! These guys play & party hard, and somehow...that translates into the music in such a manner that always leaves the crowd asking for more.

It's apparent that this band loves to perform for the sake of performing, and that sort of honest approach goes a long way with most music lovers. If you've got a taste for some retro-flavored, kick-ass, original rock...then Einstein's @ 104 Cedar Street in Downtown El Dorado is the place for you to be this friday night!

Come on down & get yo' rock on with deaconBlack!

The Hannah Wolff Band @ Einstein's-9/22!

On September 22, Einstein's of El Dorado will play host to The Hannah Wolff Band of Oklahoma City, OK. Touring in support of her recently released CD entitled One Afternoon, this outstanding songwiter/vocalist is set & ready to introduce her music to this area. With haunting vocals, mesmerizing stage presence, and backed by musicians of the highest caliber...Hannah Wolff will no doubt leave a mighty impression on all who are privileged to hear her. Well known & respected for her talent in her home region, this artist is sparing no effort to share her music with the rest of the country. Passion, professionalism, & presentation all meet in her performances, and leave no doubt as to the intensity of this performer's desire to make her mark on the world of popular music.

Stating such musical influences as Sheryl Crow, Fiona Apple, Jewel, & Alanis Morrisette...Hannah Wolff manages to weave elements from them all with her own particular lyrical stylings for a finished product that certainly satisfies & delivers!

I definitely look forward to this appearance, and can't wait to welcome this outstanding talent to South Arkansas. Mark this date down, and make plans to be at Einstein's for this show...it should prove to be one of the best performances of this year! The Hannah Wolff Band will also be appearing on Sep 23 2006 9:00P @ Gypsy Secret Garden in Fayetteville, AR.

Stay tuned for further info on this exciting artist, as well as a personal interview & updates!

Experience & Youth Present At The LogJams Weekly @ The Corner Cafe In El Dorado!

The live music scene in El Dorado, AR is truly fortunate that this area has been blessed with a bevy of good musicians consisting of both youth & experience. This is most evident when one takes into acount the weekly open jam at The Corner Cafe on 117 E. Main. Each thursday night at 9pm local singer/songwriter, Chris Loggins & guitarist extraodinaire, Hokie Gjertsen, lead the way hosting what has become one of the premire live music events in south Arkansas.

These "LogJams", as they are affectionately known...have become all-out celebrations of good music of all styles & genres, as well as providing valuable opportunities for younger musicians to learn from their more experienced peers. "Sitting at the feet" of seasoned and experienced musicians, as well as on-stage collaborations, has produced a solid core of up and coming musicians & performers who will no doubt accept the mantle of responsibility for a thriving music scene here in the future.

A mutually beneficial and symbiotic relationship has developed between these musicians that is readily evident. The more seasoned performers feed off the entusiasm and energy of the younger group, while the youths hone their skills & abilities by emulating their experienced peers. Respect & admiration abounds between these two groups, and the inter-play between these two groups have been nothing short of amazing.

In a world where a "generation gap" is often always associated with negative overtones, these jams have proven the universal principle that music, and the love of it...can indeed bridge that gap!

El Dorado Blues Jam @ Einstein's, 7/28!

Friday, 7/28, there will be red-hot blues again in El Dorado, at the monthly blues jam at Einstein's on 104 Cedar St. This event has been on-going now for just under two years, and has established itself as a premiere live music event in south arkansas.

Performers from all around gather to showcase their talents, inter-act with other musicians, and jam the blues like nobody's business! Host band, Detox & The Shakes, from Camden, AR know how to get the crowd revved up to enjoy what usually turns into a party atmosphere every time. This band really delivers a powerful punch!

All musicians & vocalists are welcome...sign up sheet required... amps, pa, drumkit provided...no cover for performers...$5 cover...21 & up only...10pm-1:30am.

Come on out for some of the very best in blues & blues-rock, as local & regional area musicians collaborate.

Come get yo' jam on!

David Allan Coe Comes To El Dorado, 7/28!

Prolific song-writer & outlaw extraordinaire, David Allan Coe, will bring his show to The Heritage Bar & Grill on friday, 7/28. Known for his own many hits, as well as those recorded by other entertainers, this artist has long been a favorite of many.

His longevity in the business can be attributed to the fact the he is first & foremost, an entertainer. Backed by a road-seasoned, and experienced troupe of musicians, one of which is his son on guitar...this event promises to be an exciting one. Ticket sales have been brisk for this one, and a capacity crowd is
predicted.

From His Website:

David's song "Take This Job and Shove It" has received a Million Airplays Certificate from BMI. His "Greatest Hits Album" is PLATINUM and his "First Ten Years Album" is GOLD. He has had sixty-three songs on the Billboard Singles Charts, including "Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile", "The Ride", "Please Come to Boston", "Willie, Waylon and Me", "Jack Daniels If You Please", "You Never Even Call Me By My Name" to name a few. He has written songs for Johnny Paycheck, Tanya Tucker, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Leon Russell, Charlie Louvin, Del Reeves, Tammy Wynette, Melba Montgomery, Stoney Edwards, The Oakridge Boys and KID ROCK. Both "Would You Lay With Me" and "Take This Job and Shove It" are million seller songs penned by David. Johnny Cash ahd recorded David's songs including "Would You Lay With Me" on his current chart topping album entitled "CASH".

$15.00 DOLLAR IN ADVANCE... $20.00 THE DAY OF THE SHOW... WE HAVE VIP SEATING AVAILIBLE -$30.00 SO GET THEM WHILE THEY LAST. FOR MORE INFO OR TO PURCHASE TICKET'S CALL : (870) 881-8095

Opening for David Allan Coe will be deaconBlack of Homer, LA. Offering some of the finest in original southern-flavored rock with a retro flavor, this exciting act is the perfect opener for DAC.

This promises to be an interesting night of music for El Dorado!

Headliners Announced For 2006 El Dorado MusicFest...

The much anticipated announcement of the headliners for this year's El Dorado MusicFest took place on 7/21. All speculation was put aside as it was revealed that on friday night, Oct. 6th...Michael Burkes, bluesman extraordinaire, would be the premiere attraction on the mainstage for the first day of this event.

Growing up in Camden, AR...just up the highway a bit from El Dorado, Michael is certainly no stranger to this area, and enjoys quite a large & loyal following here. I'm sure this performance will have a "home-coming" atmosphere, and no doubt Michael will bring out his absolute best! Highly sought after by music festivals the world over, I couldn't think of a better choice for the friday night headliner.

For saturday night, Oct. 7th, it was announced that the Charlie Daniels Band would be the featured performers. One of the pioneer acts in southern rock, as well as a mainstay in the country genre as well, this group of tireless entertainers has consistently satisfied audiences around the globe. This selection certainly fits the local demographic, and the downtown area will be packed solid for this one.

These two great acts will be accompanied by 30-35 other local & regional acts on four stages for the two-day event. Looks like this one is shaping up to be a good one!

The American Tragedy Returns To El Dorado-7/22!

The Heritage Bar & Grille will play host to one of the most popular regional acts on saturday night, 7/22, @ 9pm, as The American Tragedy of Shreveport, LA makes their return to El Dorado. This alternative rock band has built quite the loyal following here by always bringing exciting performances every time. Playing to large & enthusiastic crowds is certainly nothing new to this band, and they have the talent to warrant it. Their shows are always powerful.

This band is one of the hardest working & touring acts in the Ark-La-Tex, and I know they'll be ready to leave it all on the stage! Come on out & support these guys as they rock out @ The Heritage. You don't want to miss this one!

Thursday Nights Are For Jammin'...

Mike Duke jammin' at The Corner Cafe'!


Open mic nights, or jam sessions with open formats, can sometimes be a crapshoot...you never know exactly what's going to turn up. But at the "LogJams" @ The Corner Cafe, you can almost always count on some fantastic performances.

Hosted by the multi-talented duo of Chris Loggins, & Hokie Gjertsen...these jams quickly established themselves as one of the premiere live music events in the area. Attracting musicians from around the region, the jams have become showcases for seasoned & developing talent. With a multi-genre flavor, there's usually something to please just about anyone.

The best feature of all, in my opinion... is the collaborations that occur. Often the skill level of a participant is raised a few notches by simply acheiving the right mix of musicians on stage at just the right time. This is usually when the "magic" happens. I''ve seen people walk in from the street for their first time at the jam, and then stare in amazement at the quality of entertainment being provided. These jams are known for producing this effect quite often!

The LogJams have other unexpected effects as well. Establishing a comradery between musicians, encouraging & instructing younger players, and developing contacts for networking purposes have been a few I've witnessed.

The key to it's success has been the willingness of musicians & vocalists to come participate & to support orther artists as well. As long as this continues, thursday nights will always be for jammin' in El Dorado!

El Dorado's Repeat Offender Rocks Texarkana, 7/07!

Local favorite, Repeat Offender, made quite an impression in Texarkana, AR last friday as they partied the place out @ Fat Jack's! The band was on like I haven't seen in awhile, and all systems were a go!

The local crowd certainly seemed to enjoy themselves as the dance floor stayed busy all night. Working the crowd as only he can, frontman Charley Hankins was all over the place. The ladies responded by joining him onstage & helping the band out for several numbers.

Lead guitarist, Hokie Gjertsen, was absolutely on fire...the crowd was both appreciative & stunned simultaneously at his display of skill. Bassist Tyrone Thigpen kept a smile on his face the whole evening, and seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself as the party broke out. Mike Talley on drums was a veritable madman, and once again, displayed his versatility on the sticks.

Even though this was not their first Texarkana gig, I certainly believe it might have been their best to date if the reaction of the crowd was any indicator. Great night in a great venue with an awesome band & crowd, way to go guys...I think you scored on this one!

Monthly Blues Jam @ Einstein's Enters New Phase...

This friday night, 6/30, will see the "changing of the guard" so to speak... as the roudhouse-rockin' blues-rock band, Detox & The Shakes of Camden, AR replaces Deacon Dark of Texarkana, TX as the host band of Einstein's Monthly Blues Jam. Held on the last friday of each month, this event have certainly become one of the most exciting & successful live music event in south arkansas.

For over a year, the blues jams have grown into a showcase for not only individual talent, but some awesome collaborations as well between artists who normally don't have the opportunity to perform together. Musicians from all over the Ark-La-Tex have displayed their abilities & formed friendships with other area performers before some of the most appreciative audiences around.

Come on out & see what jammin' the blues is all about!

Event: Blues Jam
Venue: Einstein's Rock & Roll Bar & Grill
Location: 104 Cedar St. El Dorado, AR 71730
Time: 9:30pm-1:30am
Cover: Over 21, $5 cover charge, 18-20, $10 cover, Performers & Vocalists, No cover charge!
Format: All Performers/Vocalists Welcome...Amps, Drumkit, PA provided...sign-up list to play.

Crooked Halo Rocks Einstein's!

On saturday, 6/24, Texarkana, TX band, Crooked Halo, brought their newly re-vamped version to Einstein's of El Dorado. With a new setlist, as well as, a new vocalist... the patrons in attendance were definitely given their money's worth as this band gave a stellar performance! Very solid & straight ahead was their approach as they launched into covers of current, as well as classic rock favorites.

I was very impressed with the musicianship all across the board, and certainly hope to see more of this band in our area!

Loggins thrills at The Laredo Grill.

Acoustic song-stylist, Chris Loggins, of El Dorado, did an excellent job last night upstairs at the Laredo Grill. No matter how many times I see him perform, this talented individual always satisfies. Offering originals & covers, his set list runs the gamut from Americana roots/blues, to folk/rock, and everything between! How fortunate we are to have a performer of this caliber in our area.

A nice crowd gathered up for this show, and really seemed to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the upstairs lounge at The Laredo. It's the perfect venue for an acoustic show, and the accommodations are impeccable! It's very enjoyable to be able to relax in a comfortable padded chair or couch, & hear some great music. I'm really looking forward to seeing more acts here in the future.

deaconBlack Release Party-6/24 @ The Heritage Bar & Grill !

The Heritage Bar & Grill of El Dorado will play host to the Strange Daze CD Release Party for Homer, LA based band, deaconBlack! With a retro-style that hearkens back to the days of power rock, this band will certainly satisfy those who love straight at you, in your face rock and roll. With a solid reputation in the ark-la-tx already as a three-piece, I'm sure their current configuration as a five piece will be even more exciting! Tired of hearing the same old rehashed & re-canned music? Then, the original music of deaconBlack may be just what the doctor ordered for you!

Welcome To El Dorado Scene!

With the formation of this new blog, my intention is to give a running acount of the live music entertainment scene in El Dorado, AR. Photos, reviews, artists bios... as well as, event listings & news will be the content I will use to give an overview of the exciting music scene in the Downtown Entertainment District. If you'd like to contribute, please e-mail me!


Hokie Gjertsen & Charlie Hankins
of local band, Repeat Offender,
rockin' out @ Einstein's in El Doardo!