Western Swing and Honkytonk Country Music

James Hand "Shadow On the Ground"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:29:00 +0000

If you're tired of over-produced country music that sounds like it should be on the pop charts instead of the country charts, then you'll love Waco, Texas native James Hand's stellar new album "Shadow On The Ground." James Hand is an authentic country musician in the tradition of Hank Williams, and his album will remind you why you became a fan of country music in the first place.

James "Slim" Hand is a Texan through and through, and his heartachingly real depiction of country life will surprise and delight you. Hand's debut national release in 2006 at age 53 ("The Truth Will Set You Free" on Rounder Records) was a landmark in Texas music, and it gave hope to every Lone Star musician waiting for their moment to arrive. Before taking the national stage, James Hand began singing in honky tonks at age 12, but he had to find work as a truck driver, rodeo rider and horse trainer to earn additional money.

All the hard work paid off with "Shadow On The Ground." James Hand has never sounded better, and the album starts off strong with the traditional country track "Don't Want Me Too." This cut will make you want to break out in a great big country smile, and it's followed by the album's biggest surprise, the classic "Mona Lisa."

Co-produced by Asleep At The Wheel's Ray Benson and Texas music legend Lloyd Maines, the production on "Shadow On The Ground" is flawless. The best song on the album is "Midnight Run," which showcases James Hand's pure, authentic country voice. It's followed by the terrific "Leaving For Good" which should be a country chart hit.

James Hand doesn't just sing - he creates Americana musical art with passion and intensity. After listening just once to "Shadow On The Ground," you'll instantly know that this album will never leave your truck's CD player, and you won't be able to resist telling all your friends about it. In these days of iPhones, social media and fast food on every corner, James Hand's music will make you want to take the day off and enjoy a night with your wife under the stars. You can't offer any higher praise for an album than that. (Reprint from CountryChart.com) You can download the complete cd or individual tracks at www.buckatune.net

Heather Myles "In the Wind"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:20:00 +0000

Heather Myles indulges in the real meat and marrow of what country is all about. “In The Wind” is the latest signpost on the trail of her exceptional career, nodding towards the modern currents of country while maintaining a good grip on the reins of the past.

“In The Wind” is a fun, beautiful, sometimes haunting collection of songs that Heather has been inspired to write, and a few covers close to her heart. It is a warm, revealing look at her life so far and where she is headed next, demonstrating a maturity honed by years on the road, in the studio, and in the company of greatness. - Her duet with Willie, “Don’t Call Me”, is richly spiced by Skip Edwards’ south-of-the-bor der accordion, while gems like “Broke And Broken Hearted” plant her boots firmly in the dusty, smoke-filled honky-tonk tradition.

You can crack open a tall one and scoot boots along with “Smokin’” and the red-hot boogie of “My Baby’s Good To Me”. “Right Or Wrong” and the classic “Vaya Con Dios” conjure up the spirits of Patsy and Loretta, while “Pretty Poison” and the bittersweet, mandolin-driven “In the Wind” offer up a more contemporary take on country.

The title song, and the whole album, take a creative look at what is really the heart and soul of country music: the hope and perseverance that come along with hardship and heartache. This is True Country. The complete cd or individual tracks available for download at www.buckatune.net

When Did You Stop Loving Me
Broke And Broken Hearted
Shoulder To Cry On
Don't Call Me
Pretty Poison
Mama's A Star
Smokin', Drinkin', Dancin' Again
Vaya Con Dios
In The Wind
Walk On By
Right Or Wrong
My Baby's Good To Me
(Reprint: www.heathermyles.com)

New cd from Carolyn Martin: "Cookin' With Carolyn"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:15:00 +0000

Carolyn Martin from the wonderful Time Jumpers now follows up her hit CD, entitled Swing, with another gem. Again, she surrounds herself with many talented musicians who are heard throughout this CD on various cuts.

The steel guitarists heard are Hall of Fame member Doug Jernigan as well as Chris Scruggs and former Time Jumper Johnny Cox. Current Time Jumper band-mate Jeff Taylor plays accordion and piano. Also playing piano are Beegie Adair and John England Western Swinger member, Neil Stretcher. John himself is heard on lead guitar on Carolyn and her husband, Dave Martin's great swinging tune That's What I Call Cookin'. Dave is heard on bass and vocal on Jeff Taylor's Cookin' With Carolyn Theme. On the drums is heard Tommy Wells and Jerry Krahn plays guitar and plectrum banjo. Billy Contreras and Paul Kramer play fiddle, Kat Bowser does harmony vocal and Rory Hoffman plays both electric guitar and accordion. Western Music's legendary vocal group, Riders in the Sky, join Carolyn on Johnny Mercer's Dream. Nora Jane Struthers also joins her on another Johnny Mercer standard, the Elton Britt and Rosalie Allen hit duet The Yodel Blues.

Piano player Beegie Adair shows her writing talent on Someday Soon Sweetheart while Pianist Neil Stretcher wrote Nothing Better to Do. Carolyn also brings back Spring Cleaning from the 1930's song writing team that gave us Take Me Back to My Boots and Saddle. Other pop favorites reprised are If I Knew You Were Comin' I'd've Baked a Cake, Straighten Up and Fly Right and the Hoagy Carmichael/Ned Washington masterpiece Nearness of You. Fiddle Player Paul Kramer wrote It's All About You while Carolyn and Nora Jane penned Skillet Blues. Two more real gems are Rodgers and Hammerstein's People Will Say We're in Love from Broadway and Hollywood and the Western Swing Classic, Columbus Stockade Blues. The album closes with a 43 second reprise of Cookin' With Carolyn. This cd can or individual tracks can be downloaded at www.buckatune.net (reprint from http://www.swinginwest.com/reviews.htm)

Ron Williams releases great new cd!

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:04:00 +0000

Ron Williams was born in Nashville Tennessee and was exposed to Country Music from a very early age. His parents Leona and Ron Williams Sr. were both in the music business when Ron was born ,and as he puts it “ I was so immersed in music, all around me really, that I knew I would “step in it” somewhere”, he says jokingly. Both parents toured all of Ron’s young life with artists from Ernest Tubb to Loretta Lynn. “ I’ve even seen pictures of me when I was a child, sleeping in a guitar case next to the stage” he states, and some say that is where he began his road to becoming one of the music industries premier traditional country music singers. When you listen to his music, you’ll understand why he is regarded as one of the best new country talents by both music critics and industry professionals. Years of hard work, being employed as a staff songwriter to singing hundreds of demos have started to pay off. Ron has performed on shows featuring other recording artists such as Gene Watson, Marty Stewart, Mel Tillis, Travis Tritt, Vern Gosdin, Mandy Barnett, Sammy Kershaw, Clinton Gregory, Lori Morgan, Mandy Barnett and many others. “It’s been my greatest honor to work with legends of the Grand Ole Opry” states Ron, such as Ferlin Husky, Charlie Louvin, Margo Smith, Jean Shepard, Stonewall Jackson, Barbara Fairchild, Billie Walker, Jan Howard, Jett Williams, Jim Ed Brown, Helen Cornelius, Pretty Miss Norma Jean, Claude Gray, Jeannie Sealy, Wanda Jackson, Freddie Hart, Bill Anderson and more. “They are the heart and soul of country music and we should value them as such” he states.

Listen to clips and download complete songs at www.buckatune.net

The Survivors - Darrell McCall, Curtis Potter, & Tony Booth

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 16:01:00 +0000

Heart of Texas Records is pleased to announce our latest release from three of Country Music’s Most Legendary Traditionalists!

Curtis, Tony and Darrell have been friends for decades, but “The Survivors” is the very first project when all three of these great artists join each other in the recording studio!

This project, recorded at the Heart of Texas Recording Studios in Brady, Texas, was produced by Justin Trevino. Musicians including Dicky Overbey, Reggie Rueffer, Jake Hooker, Randy Lindley, Jim Loessberg join together to create some incredible backing for these twelve songs.

The selection of material includes “Wasted Words” “Your Memory Is Killing Me” “Case Of Sorrow” “You Can’t Take It With You” “My Confession” “Forever Yours” “Down At Ginny’s” “There She Goes” “Whiskey Man” “Love Don’t Care” “It Is No Secret” and the last song written by Big Bill Lister “I’ll See You In My Dreams Tonight.”

“It just felt so good recording with Tony and Curtis,” Darrell McCall said. “We had so much fun and I think it really shows in this album. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as we did creating it.”

Curtis Potter, Tony Booth and Darrell McCall “The Survivors” is now available for download at www.buckatune.net

Traditional Sounds of Norville Dollar

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 20:31:00 +0000

Norville Dollar was born in Hematite, Missouri and raised in and around the Festus area just south of St. Louis. Norville got his first guitar at the young age of 15 and was taught some chords by a friend and he learned the rest on his own. After forming his first band, he got the attention of the brass at KPLR Channell 11 in St. Louis, who signed him for a weely television show in the mid 1960's called The Norville Dollar Show. Norville had several big name Nashville stars on his show. He also gave first starts to two female artist, Barbara Fairchild and Helen Cornelius, also Dave "Lonzo" Hooten who played in a band and went on to become "Lonzo" of the "Lonzo and Oscar" Grand Ole Opry team for several years. Norville would also later get another run on KPLR Channel 11 in the 1970's. By that time,it was cable television therefore; it aired in many states and opened many doors for his music career including several appearances on the Grand Ole Opry.

If you love George Jones, you'll love Norville Dollar! Complete cd and individual mp3 tracks available at www.buckatune.net

Tracks include:
Bar Code
Don't Follow Me
Haggard and Jones
I Hope You Choke
It Took Both Of Us
My Dreams Just Came True
Nobody's Business
Not Far From the Tree
Rosie's On A Roll
She's Got It and Gone
Uncle Sam, Mister Jukebox

Jody Nix Live At Cain's Ballroom

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 02:47:00 +0000

www.buckatune.net is pleased to announce the addition of Jody Nix's cd "Live At Cain's Ballroom". This is a must for any western swing music fan. Jody Nix & The Texas Cowboys are well known as one of the finest professional music organizations anywhere. They travel across the country playing major rodeos, clubs, and conventions to large audiences. Jody received a special honor in 1989 when he and his band were asked to perform at the Texas State Society Black Tie & Boots Ball for George Bush the President Of the United States This was quite an honor and a cherished memory.

Jody has recorded seven albums to his credit and was a guest artist with Asleep At the Wheel on the "Tribute To Bob Wills" album. This album was a Country Music Association nominee for "Album of the Year" honors at the CMA Awards Show in 1994. In October of 1996, Jody was inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame in Sacramento, California.

Download this cd and other tracks from Jody Nix at www.buckatune.net

Kenny Seratt "The Best Of Kenny Seratt"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:32:00 +0000

Country music fans will love this pure country cd!

Available at www.buckatune.net Read more about Kenny from the liner notes:
At a recent recording session Justin Trevino told me about a benefit show where he had recently performed. He said all the top “Texas” acts were there, but that Kenny Seratt “absolutely stole the show!” Justin said the people in the crowd wanted to know either “Who is this guy?” or “Where has this guy been?” Well, to answer these questions: Kenny Seratt is one of the best pure country singers around. Kenny has had a number of national chart records, including “Love And Honor”, “Goodbye Comes Hard For Me” and “Bitter End” to name a few. Kenny also is an accomplished writer and wrote or co-wrote several songs on this CD. To quote Merle Haggard, who produced some of Kenny’s early records, “Kenny sang like Lefty and me way before I did.”

Kenny spends his time now either on his ranch in Montana or his home just outside of Dallas. When Kenny is in Texas he regularly performs and Emcee’s the Wylie Opry in Wylie, Texas. Listen to the 17 songs on this CD and you may well ask, “Who is this guy” or “Where has this guy been?” Hillside Records
Dave Franer

"P.S. A special thanks to A.J. at Ernest Tubb Record Shop in Ft. Worth for insisting I put out this CD. A.J., “Goodbye Comes Hard For Me” and “I Never Go Around Mirrors” are just for you.", Kenny Seratt

Liz Talley "Road To You"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:27:00 +0000

If you want to experience a night in a Texas dancehall with real country music with twin fiddles and a steel guitar, then you want to listen to Liz Talley. From coast to coast and across the world people seem to be intrigued with the music that comes out of the Lone Star State. For years people have been entertained with many great singers in all genres of music that hailed from the great state of Texas. Native Houstonian Liz Talley is no exception. When she sings, it’s pure Texas delight! This gal’s music is a breath of fresh air from the sounds of today’s radio. She takes you back to the days of the Texas Dancehall with twin fiddles and a steel guitar.

Liz Talley’s debut CD “Road to You” created quite a stir in the music scene. The 1st single “Texas in Your Swing” penned by Liz and country legend Leona Williams opened many doors for the petite Texan. “Radio just went crazy over it and before I knew it, the song was getting airplay everywhere, even landing on Willies Place/XM Radio. I think people were excited to hear something different” Talley says. The song was nominated for several awards and Liz won “Western Swing-Female Vocalist” at the Academy of Western Artists Awards. The song was also featured in a commercial for Gabbys Barbeque. Another highlight on the CD was a duet with Billy Yates “It’s Time to Cross That Bridge” which was nominated for several awards and is a favorite among the fans. Downloads available at www.buckatune.net

Amber Digby releases new cd & Opry appearance Dec 19, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:05:00 +0000

Texas country artist Amber Digby will will be making her debut appearance on the Grand Ol' Opry on December 19th. By the readers of the Scandinavian magazine, “Kounty Korall”, she was recently voted “Female Artist of The Year”, along with her project, “Here Come The Teardrops”, being voted “International Album Of The Year”. Amber was also nominated for “Pure Country Female Vocalist” in 2006 by the Academy of Western Artists and won the award in 2008.

Although her success seems to have sprung out overnight, it is not so. Amber Digby has been surrounded by musical influences her whole life it should come as no surprise that she has completely mastered such a great traditional country sound. Digby came from a musical family as both her parents have been in country music for decades: her mother Dee was a harmony singer with Connie Smith, and her father Dennis Digby played bass for Loretta Lynn for almost twenty years. Her uncle is legendary entertainer Darrell McCall. Her step-father, Dicky Overbey, is considered a steel guitar legend and played with the likes of Faron Young, Connie Smith, Hank Williams, Jr., Ronnie Milsap, Johnny Bush, and currently plays with Amber. In this musical family, the young Amber literally grew up on stage.

Amber Digby's latest release "Another Way To Live" (Heart of Texas Records) is an excellant cd. Amber put herself in excellent hands with Justin Trevino, who knows more than a little something about traditional country music, at the production helm. Backing Amber in the studio is Dicky Overby (steel guitar), husband Randy Lindley (lead guitar), Reggie Rueffer (fiddles), Justin Trevino (tic tac guitar), Jake Hooker (upright bass),Tom Lewis(drums) and T. Jarrod Bonto (piano). They chose a strong and impressive combination of covers and originals for the album.

Amber Digby "Another Way To Live" is now available for download at www.buckatune.net
Tracks include:
There Must Be Another Way To Live
Just Someone I Used To Know
This Heart Of Mine (Can Never Say Goodbye)
The Sound Of A Heartache
One Step Beyond
Soul Survivor
After It Breaks
Lie To Him
I'm Not Your Kind Of Girl
Please Be My Love
Wrong Number
Silent Night (After The Fight)

Jody Nix "Music That I Love"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 19:55:00 +0000

Buckatune is pleased to announce the addition of another cd by the great Jody Nix. Nix comes by his mixture of traditional western swing and true country music quite naturally. The West Texas Cowboys was a band started by his father, Hoyle Nix, during the 1940s and 1950s when Nix and Bob Wills developed the legendary Texas swing. Today Jody’s high energy stage shows and easy dance music provide just the sound fans have come to expect. “Of course Bob was one of my biggest influences,” Nix said. “He became a huge legend in the music industry. I have always felt honored that I got to work and know him as well as I did.” (reprint Mason County News)

The most recent of addition of Jody Nix cds is "Music That I Love". Tracks include:

What A Way To Live
My Confession
The 24th Hour
Walk Me To The Door
Before I Could Change Her Mind
Jacques Pierre Bardeaux
Close Up The Honky Tonks
If He's Moving In I'm Moving Out
Tater Pie
Welcome To My World
Jessie Polka
Pick Me Up On Your Way Down

Be sure to listen to clips from other great Jody Nix cds while at www.buckatune.net

New country cd from Houston artist Liz Talley

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 07:57:00 +0000

Liz Talley's newest cd "More Than Satisfied" is now available for download at www.buckatune.net If you want to experience a night in a Texas dancehall with real country music with twin fiddles and a steel guitar, then you want to download this cd. From coast to coast and across the world people seem to be intrigued with the music that comes out of the Lone Star State. For years people have been entertained with many great singers in all genres of music that hailed from the great state of Texas. Native Houstonian Liz Talley is no exception. When she sings, it’s pure Texas delight! This gal’s music is a breath of fresh air from the sounds of today’s radio.
Tracks include:

Bump Bounce Boogie
What We Don't Have
More Than Satisfied
I'm Crying Teardrops
One Man's Angel
You Can't Take the Texas Out of Me
A Song I Can Cry To
Reading Mamas Bible
Johnny Getting Out of Jail Barbeque
My Heart Ain't Helping
I'm Not That Good at Goodbye
The Way it Was

Listen to clips from Liz and the many other artists at Buckatune!

Jazzabillies Western Swing - Read the Reviews!

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:48:00 +0000

What else would you call a jazzy western swing group from the Missouri Ozarks?

Western swing has enchanted listeners since its roots and the Jazzabillies continue the tradition featuring hot steel guitar licks, classic twin fiddles, jazz derived lead guitar, honkytonk keyboard, wailin' sax, and a complete big band horn sound including trumpets and trombone. The rhythm section includes a drivin' upright bass with a traditional western swing rhythm guitar and the drum styles of the swing era. It exudes energy, accented beats, excitement and fun! The group blends their love of western swing, honkytonkin' country, blues, dixieland, and jazz to create their own unique style. It’s this eclectic mix of instruments and music styles that the make the Jazzabillies unique and exciting! Listen to clips or download music at www.buckatune.net

The Jazzabilles is one of the most swingin’ bands you’ve heard. Starla Queen was the recipient of the 2007 Academy of Western Artists "Western Swing Song of the Year" for the song "Show Me". Queen was also nominated for 2007 Western Swing Female Vocalist and the "Show Me" cd was nominated for Western Swing Cd of the Year. The Jazzabillies have appeared on international country music charts.

Other band members include: Jimmy Queen (Former St Louis Band Leader, Drummer, and Entertainer of the Year). Dave Owens (Missouri Country Music Hall of Fame member), and Scotty Henderson (Kansas Steel Guitar Hall of Fame member) Ernie Reed & Brad Rigby also appear on the cd.

"SHOW ME" cd reviews:

"I heard you're demo and it really swings... thanks again" Leon Rausch, Texas Playboys

"We played the CD all the way home and it was great. My kind of stuff!" John Hughey - Steel Guitar Hall of Fame member

"I have been swinging with the Queens and I have listened to this Jazzabillies CD many times too....I enjoy it very much. It almost has a "Live" feel to it...Jimmy and Starla Oueen along with Dave Owens, Scotty Henderson, Ernie Reed, Lonnie Patterson, and others all work together to make this one a keeper." Lynn Owsley (Texas Troubadour)

"I enjoyed it from beginning to end, caught myself tapping my foot and enjoying every song. That is also a great song selection. Your drum sound and playing was exceptional. Also Starla has a great voice with excellent quality and pitch. You gize have created something in your CD of which you can always be proud to play for anyone." Maurice Anderson, Steel Guitar Hall of Fame

"You suppose Bob Wills ever met Louis Armstrong? If he did, the result might be the Jazzabillies. When I'm not yakking, I love to listen to the Jazzabillies! If they don't set your toes to tappin', you're clinically dead." Jim Bohannon - Jim Bohannon Show - America's Premier Late Night Radio Talk Program

"The new "Jazzabillies" CD is awesome. Great music and great playing by all involved." Bobby Caldwell

Country Music Association of Texas Hall of Famer Big Bill Lister passed away

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:46:00 +0000

Country Music Association of Texas Hall of Famer Big Bill Lister passed away Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 10:35 pm in San Antonio, TX. He was 86. Funeral services are pending.

"During October, Big Bill entertained 310 people on a seven day cruise out of Galveston, Texas, for Country Cruisin' 2009," Heart of Texas Records President Tracy Pitcox said. "He received a standing ovation every night. He became ill after the cruise and remained in ICU for thirty days with a severe lung infection. He was just too weak to overcome the illness."

Lister was born on January 5, 1923, in Kenedy, Texas. Lister grew up listening to his idol Jimmie Rodgers. He made his radio debut over KNEL in Brady, Texas, in 1938, playing a Sears Roebuck $3.98 guitar.

Lister made some transcriptions for XEG, in Mexico, before moving to WOAI and then KMAC in San Antonio. After World War II, Lister moved to KTSA and hired Tommy Hill to accompany him on guitar. With Tommy and Kenny Hill, Lister formed Bill Lister and the Texas Hillbillies. Lister was hosting two shows each day on the powerful 50,000 watt station and sponsored by Luck Optical.

At 6 foot 7 1/2 inches, Lister was tagged with "Radio's Tallest Singing Cowboy" during this time.

Lister made his first recording for the Everstate Label based in San Antonio. His release of "This Time Sweetheart" and "Local Yokel" became regional hits in Texas.

Lister moved to Nashville in January of 1951.

"I got acquainted with Tex Ritter-I opened a number of shows for down through South Texas," Lister recalled. "And Tex suggested that if I really wanted to do anything, that I needed to either go to the West Coast or Nashville."

Ritter told Capitol A & R leader Dee Kilpatrick to sign Lister to a recording contract. With a contract in his hand, Lister went to the Grand Ole Opry and approached Jim Denny about appearing on the historic show. Denny teamed Lister with Hank Williams as a front man. He joined the Drifting Cowboys organization in February of 1951.

"Hank and I became real good friends," Lister said. We had an awful lot in common being born the same year and listening to the same people growing up. When I originally went out there, I wasn't supposed to stay on the stage when Hank came out. But before the first week was over, Hank asked me if I'd mind playing second rhythm with him because he and I played almost identical rhythm."

Lister made his first recordings for Capitol Records on March 13, 1961, at the Castle Studios at the Tulane Hotel in Nashville. Grady Martin, Ernie Newton and a young Chet Atkins back Lister on "Beer Drinkin' Blues" and "RC Cola And A Moon Pie."

During his time with Williams, Lister was a part of the Hadacol Caravan touring 18 states with Bob Hope, Milton Berle and Minnie Pearl. He was also featured on the Mother's Best Radio shows from Nashville.

While preparing for another recording session, Lister told Williams that he needed a good "beer drinking song." Williams said "Don't worry about it big un, I got you covered. I got one that's hotter'n a pistol". The following morning Williams dropped by Lister's house with an acetate of "There's A Tear In My Beer."

Lister recorded the song and then tossed the acetate into a trunk to be forgotten for the next thirty five years. Lister later gave the acetate to Hank Williams Jr. and it become a million selling duet between father and son.

In 1952, Williams and his wife Audrey divorced and he disbanded the Drifting Cowboys band. Lister remained in Nashville until July of 1952. He then joined the Big D Jamboree in Dallas, hosted an Sunday afternoon show on KRLD and worked Jack Ruby's Carousel Club each Sunday night. He would then drive back to San Antonio during the week before returning to Dallas each weekend throughout 1953 and 1954.

"Elvis was coming on might strong and hillbillies wasn't doing too good anywhere, so I just kind of drifted out of the business," Lister recalled.

He took up gun engraving and became one of the most sought after engraves man in the Texas industry. He continued to play opry shows, school houses and the occasional concert with some of his friends, but did not record again until the 1980's. His "Sho Nuff Country Stuff" album was released on the Salt Lick label based in Ft. Worth.

The rediscovery of "There's A Tear In My Beer" and its subsequent recording by Hank Williams and Hank Jr. brought a substantial amount of publicity for Lister. He appeared on radio stations throughout the country and even was given a gold record on Nashville Now with Ralph Emery.

In 1998, Lister lent his vocals and songwriting skills to a project to raise money to build a country music museum in Brady, Texas. The song "Take Me Back" was part of a compilation album that helped to create the Heart of Texas Country Music Museum. Lister became very involved in the project even donating much of his memorabilia to the museum along with making numerous appearances at the museum throughout the years.

Lister made his final recording for Heart of Texas Records in 1999, with "Big Bill Lister Remembering Hank Williams Through Story and Song." It was a live project that mixed Lister's memories of his years with Williams. It also featured him performing some of Williams' hits and songs that Williams wrote for Lister.

Williams' daughter Jett performed for Lister's 86th birthday celebration in Llano, Texas, earlier this year.

In the book "Legendary Conversations With A Texas Disk Jockey", Lister said he wanted "to be remembered as someone who stood tall for Traditional Country Music."

The services for Big Bill Lister are:

Saturday - December 5, 2009
10:00 am - Services at First Baptist Church - 631 South School Street, Boerne, Texas
To be be followed with reception and fellowship at Methodist Church - 205 East James Street, Boerne, Texas

Burial will be at Oak Rest Cemetery in Medina, TX
This cemetery is located about 30 miles from Boerne.
The funeral arrangements are being handled by:
Ebensberger-Fisher Funeral Homes - Boerne, TX
http://www.ebensberger-fisher.com/
Condolence messages to the family can be made at this website.

Big Bill Lister's wishes were that memorials be made to the Heart of Texas
Country Music Association 1701 South Bridge, Brady, TX 76825

Billy Mata "Keepin The Tradition"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 02:28:00 +0000

For more than 30 years, Billy Mata
has been performing traditional music for
Honky Tonkers and a brand new generation
of Western Swing dancers.
His music is all energy, heart, spirit,
and the magic musical talent of his band,
The Texas Tradition - now celebrating
more than a quarter of a century together!
"Keeping With The Tradition" cd added to www.buckatune.net
Track include:
FROM TENNESSEE TO TEXAS (With Johnny Bush)
HEART TO HEART TALK
HEARTS (With Children)
I'M GOIN' BACK TO SAN ANTONIO
LIVING AND LEARNING (with Jodee Preston)
RING RING TELEPHONE RING
TALLY HO
THE "A" TRAIN
UNDO THE RIGHT
ALL I NEED IS TIME
CASE OF SORROW (with Methany Brothers)
DON'T YOU BELIEVE HER
FADED LOVE (With Frenchie Burke)

Musicians:
Billy Mata - Vocals
Richard Helsey - Fiddle/Harmony Vocals
Roger Edgington - Steel Guitar
David Spangler - Lead Guitar
Jim Kleckler - Bass Guitar
Rocco Fortunato - Drums/Harmony Vocals

Jeff Woolsey and the Dancehall Kings

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:25:00 +0000

Jeff Woolsey was raised on traditional country music. He sang on stage for the first time when he was 4 years old. During the 70’s and 80’s, Jeff performed with his father’s band, where he developed his passion for the honkytonk sound. At the age of 19, Jeff formed his own band and carried on the sound of traditional country music. Over the next five years, Jeff polished his voice for the next step in his musical career.

In 1991, Jeff formed the Taste of Texas Band, which quickly made a name for themselves in Houston and throughout Texas. Jeff soon realized that in order to perform in the top dancehalls around, he would have to play the current country hits heard on the radio. He did just that, all the while injecting traditional country music every chance he could. Jeff and his band became widely known for the huge variety of country music that he brought to the stage every where he performed.
Jeff released his first single in 1991, which received airplay in Texas , as well as states along the East Coast. In 1994, Jeff received more recognition when he and his band were named BAND of the YEAR in the Houston area for Coors Lite Texas Music. In 1995, Jeff released his first album, “By My Side”. The CD featured all original songs and received considerable airplay on Texas radio stations. In 1996, Jeff released “Just Take My Heart”, a song he co-wrote with Jimmy Calhoun and Billy Spruill . The song was included on a compilation CD which was released by the Houston Music Council, and represented all of the top artists in the Houston area. Also during this time, Jeff had the opportunity to work with some of country’s biggest stars, including George Jones, Tim McGraw, Neal McCoy, Toby Keith, and many more.

After years of performing 140 dates a year, Jeff realized that he wanted to get back to his roots of playing traditional country music. Jeff has now started another chapter in his musical career. Jeff, while still bringing his powerful voice to the stage, is back where he belongs. If you enjoy dancing to every song, Jeff Woolsey and the Dancehall Kings will give you no choice but to stay on the dance floor as they play song after song from the likes of Ray Price, Buck Owens, Faron Young, Conway Twitty, plus many original songs that keep the shuffle alive. Jeff is now proud to announce the release of his new self-titled CD, " Jeff Woolsey & The Dancehall Kings"! This CD contains 12 great songs, including some from Buck Owens, Hank Jr., Mel Street , Johnny Paycheck and Bill Anderson. The CD also contains several original songs. " Jeff Woolsey & The Dancehall Kings" is now available at www.buckatune.net

It's a country christmas with great country music artists!

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 04:25:00 +0000

Buckatune is pleased to announce the addition of some great Christmas music from Bobby Flores, Ferlin Husky, Mike Sigler, Liz Talley, and Jimmy & Starla Queen. Listen to clips and download your copies today at www.buckatune.net

Jody Nix "Choose The One You Want"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:49:00 +0000

Jody Nix & The Texas Cowboys are well known as one of the finest professional music organizations anywhere. They travel across the country playing major rodeos, clubs, and conventions to large audiences. Jody received a special honor in 1989 when he and his band were asked to perform at the Texas State Society Black Tie & Boots Ball for George Bush the President Of the United States This was quite an honor and a cherished memory.

Jody has recorded seven albums to his credit and was a guest artist with Asleep At the Wheel on the "Tribute To Bob Wills" album. This album was a Country Music Association nominee for "Album of the Year" honors at the CMA Awards Show in 1994. In October of 1996, Jody was inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame in Sacramento, California.

Buckatune is pleased to announce that Jody's cd "Choose The One You Want" is now available for download at www.buckatune.net

Tracks from "Choose The One You Want" include:
Choose The One You Want
I Danced With Your Picture
All Night Long
My Adobe Hacienda
You're Making A Memory Out of Me
Old Fashioned Love
My Mary
Texas Fiddle Man
Looking Over My Shoulder
Rosetta

Traditionally Yours - Billy Mata

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:45:00 +0000

Billy Mata & The Texas Tradition provides entertainment for true country music traditionalists as well as a new generation of Western Swing enthusiasts. The band is made up of some of Texas' strongest professional musicians with a combination of more than 165 years of musical experience. This includes strong lead vocal...s by Billy Mata and features true country fiddles, honky tonk steel guitar and true Western Swing style electric guitar that would make Eldon Shamblin proud. The guitar, bass and drums rhythm section are the 'real deal' - making it almost impossible to sit down when you could be dancing. The style of music played is from Bob Wills, Johnny Bush, Mel Tillis, Ray Price, as well as the popular sounds of Asleep at the Wheel, Jerry Jeff Walker, Robert Earl Keen, and many more! Mata has received numerous awards from the national Academy of Westen Artists.

The "Traditionally Yours" cd which was originally released in 2004 include the following tracks:
Goodbye Lisa Jane
Beer Drinking Music
Just To Celebrate
Texas Is To Big
How Much More Can She Stand
I'll Go To A Stranger
The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise
Spanish Two Step
That Rain Making Baby Of Mine
I Didn't Realize
Magic Moments
Again

Listen to clips and download mp3s, including the "Traditionally Yours" cd at www.buckatune.net

Johnny Rodriguez and Johnny Bush - "Texas Legends"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:30:00 +0000

Two Texas Country Music Legends-Johnny Rodriguez and Johnny Bush- team together for the very first time in this special duet album featuring Pure Texas Country Music! "Texas Legends" features some terrific selections from both Johnnys. The album (brought to you by Heart of Texas Records) is highlighted by some duets including "Troubles" "Old Worn Out Cowboys" "...Vamoose Vamonos" along with each artists doing some solo work as well. Bush turns to Bill Anderson's writing skills in "You Lied To Me" while Rodriguez tackles the beautiful balad "What Do I Do With Me Now." Download individual tracks or the entire cd at www.buckatune.net

Complete track listing:
You Lied To Me
Troubles
The Rio Grande Runs Red
Ole Wore Out Cowboys
If Cheaters Never Win
Vamoose Vamonos
What Do I Do With Me Now
There's Somebody Else On Your Mind
If I Haven't Said I Love You
Leaving Lyin Down
A Soft Place To Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:12:00 +0000

Moore, Martha Dean (McKinney)
Peacefully passed away in her home on Monday, November 9, 2009 in Sacramento, California. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Billie M. (Tiny) Moore, parents Dewey and Margaret McKinney,sister Helen V. Ridge and her loving son-in-law William (Skip) Van Vliet. She is survived by her children: daughters Debra M. Moore and Kimberly Van Vliet of Sacramento, son Richard D. Moore, wife Patti and
their sons Jarod and Danny of Auburn, California. She also leaves her sister and singing partner Evelyn and her daughter Billie (Jaki)Wills, of North Highlands, California.

Dean and her sister Evelyn were known professionally as the McKinney Sisters and began singing on radio station WBRC in Birmingham, Alabama when Dean was 14 and Evelyn was 12 years old. During their early career they were also known as “The Jim Dandy Sweethearts,” “The Song Twins,” “The Double Cola Twins” and “The Coeds.” They appeared with the Sons of the Pioneers and on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee with Eddie Arnold and Eddy Peabody, the Banjo King. After working in Chicago with the Ted Weems Orchestra they were contacted by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys. Their first work with Bob Wills was an ABC radio program and to participate in a musical short film for Universal Studios. A long and successful career with Bob Wills resulted in classic recordings for MGM, Columbia and The Tiffany Transcriptions. During this time Dean met her husband and musical collaborator Tiny Moore, who played the electric mandolin and fiddle as one of The Playboys. Dean and Tiny settled in Sacramento and Tiny managed the Wills Point Ballroom on Auburn Boulevard. Western Swing Music was the attraction for dances and concerts held at the Ballroom with Tiny’s band that included Evelyn’s husband, Billy Jack Wills.

Fulfilling the needs of their faith in God, Dean and Tiny were among the founding members of the First Baptist Church of Carmichael. Dean and Evelyn shared their love of faith and music by frequently ministering to the congregation with songs of praise. Two LP’s of sacred music were produced: “Softly and Tenderly” and “Heaven’s Harmony.” Dean was an unwavering presence in her children’s lives and was active in Parent Teacher Associations throughout their early school years. She enthusiastically supported every activity that interested her children. She was a wonderful cook and she and Tiny entertained often with lavish dinners for friends and family. They performed as a duo frequently joined by their daughter Kimberly and
were constantly in demand to appear at concerts and private gatherings.

After Tiny’s death in 1987 Dean became active in the Sacramento Western Swing Society, serving as their President for many years. During this time Dean traveled extensively and continued to sing with Evelyn at musical festivals across the United States to show case the unique style of music known as “Western Swing.”

Her children will remember her as an example of strength of character and wisdom, unfailing support and abiding love. She will be remembered by all for her talent, her grace, her kindness and her sweet humor. Martha Dean Moore was in all situations an impeccable lady.

Services will be held on Friday, November 20, 2009, at 2:00 pm at the East Lawn Mortuary located at 5757 Greenback Lane, Sacramento, California, 95841.Read More

Big Bill Lister in ICU

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:11:00 +0000

Country Music Association of Texas Hall of Famer Big Bill Lister is now situated at Life Care Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

He is still in ICU and remains hooked up to the ventilator. He is awake and responsive though several times they have had to give him some anxiety meds to help calm him down and those usually end up putting him to sleep. It is still a very long road ahead for him.

He seems to be very responsive when he is read a card or letter that someone sends to him. Although, he can not communicate, the cards and letters seem to be making a difference for him. I know that he would love to hear from you and any one else that might remember and care about him. Country Music and his friends in that industry are so very important to him.

The address is:
Big Bill Lister
Life Care Hospital of San Antonio
8902 Floyd Curl
San Antonio , Texas 78240

Please pass this along to anyone that might want to send him a note.

Big Bill started his radio career over KNEL in Brady, Texas, in 1935. He went on to the Grand Ole Opry and opened shows all over the country for Hank Williams. He was the first to record "There's A Tear In My Beer" and has been a very important part of the Texas Country Music scene for seventy years.

Johnny Bush Sings Bob Wills

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 06:43:00 +0000

Johnny Bush Sings Bob Wills is an airy, 10-song-in-26-minutes big-band salute to the King of Western Swing that was recorded at Willie Nelson's Perdenales studio in 1990 (at the precise time the IRS swooped in and padlocked the place until Nelson resolved that mess). Yet the sands of time have been kind to Sings Bob Wills. The two-trumpet, double fiddle, sax, trombone, and multi-guitar-layered attack provide the perfect panorama for for Bush's expressive singing and buoyant arrangements. Merle Haggard's "Don't Sing Me Songs About Texas" done with guest singer Hank Thompson, and the class "South of the Border" breath heartily with fiddles and horns allowing each other plenty of leeway. Willie Nelson's vocal contributions to "Time Changes Everything" offers a vibrato so similar to Bush that you wonder if they were seperated at birth. Bush even floats an entertaining instrumental rendition of "Jersey Bounce" just so he can feature his band. Now how cool is that? You can download individual tracks or the entire cd at www.buckatune.net
Track include:
And God Created Texas
Beneath A Neon Star
Bob Said It Aw and Called It Western Swing
Don't Sing Me No Songs About Texas
Jersey Bounce
New Road Under My Wheels
Raindrops Falling In A River
South Of The Border
Time Changes Everything
Warm Red Wine

Jody Nix "New Road Under My Wheels"

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:18:00 +0000

Jody Nix "New Road Under My Wheels" is now available at www.buckatune.net You can download individual tracks or the entire cd.

Jody Nix, a well established artist in the great State of Texas. A true Traditional Country Music and Western Swing Artist, been in the business 45 years. Has played dances and shows all over Texas and parts of the Southwest. He leads one of the finest Dance bands in Texas, they fill the floor on every song. Jody "grew up" in music, started playing drums in his Father Hoyle Nix's Band at age 8 in 1960 playing 5 nights a week all over West Texas. Jody started playing the fiddle at age 11, started singing at age 16, recorded with Bob Wills at age 21 on the 1973 "Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys For The Last Time" as a guest artist and sang 3 songs. Jody started on his own in 1985 after the death of his Father, and has since played 100-125 dates per year for almost 20 years. Jody has 8 albums to his credit, and was also a guest artist on Asleep At The Wheel's 2 Tribute Albums to Bob Wills. His Influences are Bob Wills, Hoyle Nix, Johnny Bush, Ray Price, Marty Robbins, Charlie Walker, and of course George Strait. This CD is packed with something for everybody.
Tracks include:
New Road Under My Wheels
Maiden's Prayer
Hang Your Head In Shame
She Won't Let Me Forget Her
Bottle Baby Boogie
Carrying On The Show
That's What It's Like To Be Lonesome
Fiddle Tune Medley
Your Memory's Still Living Here
Corn Flower Waltz

Billy Mata Domino Effect

noreply@blogger.com (Buckatune) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:08:00 +0000

Here's a cd that you will want in your collection! Billy Mata & Texas Tradition's "Domino Effect". You've heard cuts from the cd on various radio stations, including Willie's Place on Sirius XM.

This cd features some great tunes including:
Across The Alley From The Alamo
Macon Georgia Love
Roll’em Floyd
A Girl Like You
Wishful Thinking
Domino Effect
If This Was Texas
Private Party
Texas Homesick Blues
I Laugh When I Think How I Cried Over You
Cielito Lindo
Wishing Well
Gotta Keep ‘Em Movin’ Along

You can listen to clips, download individual tracks, or download the entire cd at www.buckatune.net