Band made lasting impact on genre

"Shenandoah was one of the first groups to rebel against the urban cowboy image of the ‘80s and lead the way to the new traditionalism of the ‘90s.” (Shenandoah website)

 The group, like many others of that rock flavored country genre, is still going strong.

Most of us remember the rockin’ sound of “The Church on Cumberland Road,” but “Next to You, Next to Me” and “Moon Over Georgia” might also be songs you have sung in the shower. You can sing them at the events center on Saturday, too. Past concerts in town have included Tracy Byrd, Chad Brock, Suzie Bogguss - an unusually high number of gifted performers to grace a town of our size.

Blackhawk, Diamond Rio, Tracy Lawrence, Sawyer Brown, Pirates of the Mississippi-I always like to look at a slot titled “similar sound” on a group’s website. If you’re not a Shenandoah buff, this tells you what you might expect. Don’t come expecting Keith Urban or LeeAnn Rimes.  

A key question in our house, surrounding any musical event, especially of groups in this genre, is: Will there be dancing available ? Indeed, that can be a make or break question. Music this good is best listened to while in motion. The answer is yes. While some of the floor will be seating, some will also be cleared for dancing.

Tickets are available at the door, with all prices being the same, general admission, fifteen dollars. However, they can also be purchased in advance, either at the Curry County Events Center next to the fairground, or at the center’s website.

It would be a lie to say that we are ready to party after a long cold winter. There was no long cold winter. However, it is still the beginning of summer and we are still ready to party. This concert might be a great way to get your summer started.

If you’re a little reticent about leaving the seating and getting out on the dance floor, just take Shenandoah’s own musical advice:

“Well he saw it on TV and ordered that video

He learned every step at home and never told me so

When I saw him out there the very first time I knew

Well if Bubba can dance I can too"

Clyde Davis is pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Portales and a college instructor. He can be contacted at:
clyde_davis@yahoo.com