Country Music Festival

2 April 2017

Las Cruces Country Music Festival


R1

From the CVB

April 2017 3

Table of Contents

Festival born from teamwork Where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday we had the idea for a country music festival in downtown Las Cruces, and today we are celebrating our fifth anniversary! For those of you who have been with us from the beginning, you will remember a small stage setup in the intersection of Griggs and Main Street, with a few dozen rows of chairs and a handful of vendors. Many things have changed since then, but it remains our privilege to present some of the great legends of country music as well as up-and-coming artists who are now frequent names on the country charts. Visit Las Cruces is very proud of what we have accomplished, but we know there would not be a festival without the great support of our sponsors, vendors, and of course, the fans. The Las Cruces Country Music Festival has always been more than just a showcase of great country music talent. We created the festival to help put Las Cruces on the map, and to create a signature event the entire community could be proud of. An event that would draw people from around the state, region and country, and give them an opportunity to experience all the things that make Las Cruces such an amazing place. Our hope was that if people could experience just a small taste of Las Cruces during the festival, they would want to return again and again to visit White Sands, Mesilla, the Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market, downtown Main Street, our national monuments, and the many other things that make Las Cruces unique. We encourage everyone to discover our unique cuisine and experience the beauty and friendliness of our hometown. We still have a long way to go, but we feel we are making an impact and Las Cruces is getting noticed. This year, we think we have out-done ourselves. We have had great lineups in the past — from Charlie Daniels and Kenny Rogers, to Dustin Lynch, The Swon Brothers and Cam — but this year we have taken it to a new level. Friday night kicks off with three leg-

Overview................................................. Page 4 Schedule and map................................ Page 6 Travis Tritt ............................................... Page 8 Kacey Musgraves ................................ Page 10 NMSU Rodeo marks milestone 75th year ................................................. Page 11 Eli Young Band.................................... Page 13 Tanya Tucker ........................................ Page 15 Alyssa Newton .................................... Page 26 Brian Christopher and the Wild Oats.............................................. Page 28

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ends of country music: The Marshall Tucker Band, the queen of country Tanya Tucker, and the one and only Travis Tritt. In between we will have local favorites the Yarborough Band and the Justin Kemp Band rocking the Sisbarro South Stage. Saturday night will host hometown favorite Bri Bagwell followed by the Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves. The weekend promises to be great from start to finish, so I hope you have your tickets already because they are going fast. There are so many moving pieces that have to come together to put on a successful festival, it is not just about the music. First and foremost, there is the staff at Visit Las Cruces who work tirelessly each and every day to showcase our great city. I am so proud to be part of this great group of professionals. We are also fortunate to have the wisdom and guidance of Barbara “Mother” Hubbard. Barbara is a wealth of information and she has single-handedly brought more

tourists to Las Cruces than anyone else. In addition to Barbara, we are fortunate to have Gene Dries as our Nashvillebased Creative Director and Dickerson Catering managing logistics for the event. Of course, there would not be a festival without our sponsors and the support we receive through the Friends of Visit Las Cruces, Inc. Thank you for believing in us and helping us accomplish our mission. We are honored to have your support and trust, and we will work feverishly to make you proud to be part of this exciting event. Finally, thank you to the City of Las Cruces for embracing the festival and for making our out-of-town visitors feel at home. The memory of a festival is short-lived, but the friendliness and welcoming that our visitors receive will be a lasting memory. Sincerely, Jennifer Bales Interim Director/Visit Las Cruces Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau

A publication of the Las Cruces Sun-News 256 W. Las Cruces Ave. 575-541-5400 lcsun-news.com

President/Advertising Director Rynni Henderson

Managing Editor Sylvia Ulloa

Section Editor Lorena Sanchez

Writers Bethany Blundell Carlos Andres López Isabel A. Rodriguez Cassie McClure Spencer Taylor

Advertising Coordinator Helene McMillian

Advertising Account Executives

Sponsors » New Mexico Department of Tourism » Pic Quik » Las Cruces Sun-News » ABC Channel 7

Staff

» Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces » Zia Country » VIP Southwest Services & Shuttle » Sisbarro

» Premier Distributing » Citizens Bank » WDG Architects » Red Mesa Design and Development » La Posta de Mesilla

» » » » » »

Pecan Grill Steinborn Real Estate Coas Books Pioneer Bank Hilton Garden Inn Ashley’s Furniture

» Bagwell Financial » Carrillo Law Firm » Run Culture » El Paso Electric » Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

» Las Cruces Magazine » Century Bank » Lahann Law Firm

Maria Derk Joseph Gutierrez Jennifer Garcia-Kozlowski Andriena Martinez DaMarrio Mitchell Braden Tidwell


4 April 2017

Country music star Lee Ann Womack sings on the North Stage during the 2016 Las Cruces Country Music Festival. This year the event welcomes Kacey Musgraves, Travis Tritt, Tanya Tucker, the Marshall Tucker Band and the Eli Young Band.

Overview

Country fest’s fifth year is a definite crowd-pleaser BETHANY BLUNDELL FOR SUN-NEWS

What was once just a vision to bring good music to Las Cruces has now, five year later, transformed into New Mexico’s premier country music festival. The Las Cruces Country Music Festival will return to the City of Crosses, bringing with it favorite country music stars from previous years in addition to some of country’s other top performers. “The reason we started this festival was to give Las Cruces a signature event that would not only be great for the residents, but would help draw people from other communities to Las Cruces,” said Chris Faivre, director of marketing for the event. “The idea is, if we can get people to come to Las Cruces for the festival, maybe we can get them to come back a few more times and experience other things.” Faivre said they still have a lot of progress to make, but they are improving and seeing increases in attendance each year. In fact, with ticket sales increasing by 200 percent from last year, festival organizers expect both nights to be completely sold out. Faivre attributes it to the loyalty of sponsors and fans. “We’ve had really great fan support,” he said. “They’ve turned out every year and that has allowed us to get bigger names for entertainment every year after that.” On Friday, the performers set to hit the stage are Yarbrough Band, Marshall Tucker Band, Tanya Tucker, Justin Kemp and Travis Tritt. Saturday will feature Brian Christopher and the Wild Oats, Alyssa Newton, Bri Bagwell, Eli Young Band, Abe Mac Band and Kacey Musgraves. Two people who are looking forward to attending the event again are Joe and Monica Escamilla. The couple, who first met on a country dance floor 28 years ago, said they still love two-stepping the night away to great music. “We love this event,” Monica said. “There are so many great performers, and it’s amazing that this event brings them all together under one roof in little Las Cruces.” Even for the fan who isn’t as dedicat-

If you go What: Las Cruces Country Music Festival 2017 When: 6 p.m. Thursday, April 27; 1 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 28-29; and 9:30 a.m. Sunday, April 30 Where: Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces, downtown Main Street, Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds and New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com

ed to country music as the Escamillas, the event is still fun to attend, Faivre said. There are a variety of vendors scheduled to attend the event, and a kid area with free admission for children 12 and younger to make the perfect night out for the family, as well. The weekend starts off with a VIP party at Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces. Faivre said if there is one thing they took to the next level, it is this party, which will consist of Bri Bagwell meeting fans and playing music throughout the night. During the festival, the New Mexico State University Rodeo will be ongoing. The NMSU Rodeo celebrates its 75th anniversary, and will have special events to commemorate the milestone. They also moved to a new location at the Southern New Mexico State Fairgrounds to accommodate for the increase in attendance. Moving back to downtown Main Street, there will be a variety of performers on two different stages playing the hottest hits in country music well into the night. The festival will close Sunday with the Tough Enough to Wear Pink Country Breakfast at the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, followed by the finals of the rodeo. “What we try to do is configure the festival so we can optimize the space to ensure the best fan experience,” Faivre said. “Each year we try to up our game and challenge ourselves to take the festival to the next level.” Bethany Blundell may be reached at [email protected].

JETT LOE/ SUN-NEWS

OUT’N’ABOUT FESTIVAL WEEKEND Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market The Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market takes place on Main Street and features more than 300 vendors from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays. The market is open Saturday along downtown Main Street, from Las Cruces Avenue to Griggs Avenue. On Wednesday, it is held on Plaza de Las Cruces off downtown Main Street. Info: www.fcmlc.org

Spring Showcase of Homes The Spring Showcase of Homes shows some of the more awe-inspiring homes on the market in Las Cruces. Visitors don’t have to be in the market for a new home to check out these listings. The Spring Showcase of Homes is from Friday, April 28 through Sunday, April 30 throughout Las Cruces: » 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 28 » 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, April 29 » Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 30 Info: lascrucesshowcaseofhomes.com

Mesilla Nestled south of Las Cruces, the town of Mesilla is a small gem that will fill your day with shopping, dining, art, uniquely local products and more. The Basilica of San Albino overlooks the historic Mesilla Plaza and if just one must-see stop along the plaza. Enter from Valley Drive by turning onto Avenida de Mesilla and follow the road until you reach Mesilla. Turn west onto Calle De Santiago and continue to the plaza; or venture off the beaten path and check out some local shops and eateries outside the plaza. Info: www.mesillanm.gov

White Sands National Monument White Sands National Monument is less than an hour away from Las Cruces and well worth the trip. For those looking for a way to fill the day and take in a once-in-a-lifetime view of southern New Mexico beauty, the visit will not disappoint. Enjoy the experience, and take part in some of the of the monument’s activities. Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. $5 per person 16 years and older. Those 15 and younger are admitted free. This fee is valid for entrance in to the monument from date of purchase plus six more days. Calendar events for activities at White Sands are listed online. Info: www.nps.gov/whsa

Sun City Craft Beer Festival 2016 El Paso is a hop, skip and a jump away from Las Cruces. Less than an hour south of the city, El Paso’s Sun City Craft Beer Festival is the perfect way to kill some time. The festival is from 1 to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 29 at the El Paso Convention Center Plaza, in El Paso. Must be 21 or older to attend. Tickets are $30 (designated drivers $10) and are available for purchase online. Features: Over 150 beer brands, sampling, live music, gigantic beer pongs, human foosball, food trucks, live brewing and more. VIP tickets available for purchase. Due to a major Interstate 10 construction project, there may be closures or delays. For traffic alerts, visit go10elpaso.com. Info: suncitycraftbeerfest.com

Visit Las Cruces Looking for more things to do the weekend of the Las Cruces Country Music Festival? Visit www.lascrucescvb.org and click on “Things To Do.” From wine tours and galleries, to outdoor recreation, museums and day trips there is a lot to see and do in and around Las Cruces.


April 2017 5


6 April 2017

2017 LCCMF Schedule and Map

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

FRIDAY, APRIL 28

6 p.m. VIP Party (Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces)

1 p.m. Rodeo (Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds) 5 p.m. Country Music Festival gates open (Downtown Main Street) 5 p.m. Yarbrough Band (South Stage) 6 p.m. Marshall Tucker Band (North Stage)

7 p.m. Yarbrough Band (South Stage) 8 p.m. Tanya Tucker (North Stage) 9 p.m. Justin Kemp Band (South Stage) 10 p.m. Travis Tritt (North Stage) 11 p.m. Official Country Music Festival after party (Pecan Grill, 21+ only)

SATURDAY, APRIL 29 7 a.m. Giddyup Gallop (Mayfield High School parking lot) 8:30 a.m. Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market (Downtown Main Street) 1 p.m. Rodeo (Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds) 4 p.m. Country Music

Festival gates open (Downtown Main Street) 4 p.m. Brian Christopher & the Wild Oats (South Stage) 5 p.m. Alyssa Newton (South Stage) 6 p.m. Bri Bagwell (North Stage) 7 p.m. Alyssa Newton (South Stage) 7:45 p.m. Eli Young Band

(North Stage) 9 p.m. Abe Mac Band (South Stage) 10 p.m. Kacey Musgraves (North Stage) 11 p.m. Official Country Music Festival after party (Pecan Grill, 21+ only)

SUNDAY, APRIL 30 9:30 a.m. Pic Quik Country Breakfast – Featuring a western wear fashion show and acoustic performances by festival artists (New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum) 1 p.m. Rodeo (Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds)


April 2017 7


8 April 2017

Tritt brings decades of hits to Las Cruces Musician considers self to be ‘extremely fortunate’ BETHANY BLUNDELL FOR SUN-NEWS

It could be said that Travis Tritt does it all. With an Olympic performance under his belt, multiple professional sports contracts and acting appearances, his name is a familiar one. But above all, Tritt’s primary claim to fame is music, and it is music where he found his home and his greatest success. “I consider myself to be extremely fortunate in the fact that I’ve had so many cool things happen to me over the years,” he said. “But I always just wanted to be an artist, record, go out and play concerts and try to take the music to as many people as I could. In the process of dreaming about all of that, I could have never ever imagined that it would go as far as it has.” The Georgia native blends his childhood influences of southern rock, blues and gospel to create tunes that put him in the same category of some of country’s biggest stars. He said when it comes to his lyrics, the meanings of his songs are self-explanatory. They are tunes crafted through the experiences he went through and experiences he has seen his family and friends go through. “That’s the unique thing with music: it should make you feel something and it should speak to you, regardless of what situation you’re dealing with,” he said. Out of the 12 studio albums he’s released, many of them have gone platinum or multi-platinum. In addition to that, he had the added recognition of winning a plethora of CMA, Billboard and Grammy awards. Tritt said he had to alter many things over the years to keep up with the everchanging trends of the music industry, like developing a social media presence, but he said the one thing that stands the test of time is his sound. “I think one of the things that has kept me going all these years is (that) I recognized that my voice doesn’t sound like anybody else’s,” he said. “From the very beginning, for whatever reason, my voice had a unique quality to it.” This is something the fans also recognize and gravitate to, which is apparent with his repeated sold-out concerts across the country. Another thing that keeps people coming back is the atmosphere Tritt and his band create. Tritt’s concerts are high-energy, with the musicians running around the stage

COURTESY

A veteran in the industry, country star Travis Tritt brings his star power Friday, as he headlines the opening night of the 2017 Las Cruces Country Music Festival.

and engaging with the audience. He said he never plays anything at a concert except for his biggest and best hits. And after a career of almost 30 years, he has plenty of those. “An audience gets out of a show what they put into it, and our fans our absolutely incredible,” he said. “During the show, it’s like a ball of energy that bounces from the audience to the stage and back again.” As part of his current tour, Tritt will perform at the Las Cruces Country Music Festival headlining Friday’s lineup. With a touring schedule that leaves Tritt and his crew on the road for more than 200 days out of the year, he said the lifestyle can become exhausting; however,

those two hours he gets to spend on the stage each night make it all worth it. To ensure he doesn’t let all the traveling wear him down, he makes it a point to schedule in time to spend with his family. The father of three said throughout his career, he has never missed a birthday or holiday. Even though Tritt already claimed success in the country music industry, he said he doesn’t envision slowing down any time soon. So many people desire a long-term career, he said, and is humbled and thankful that he’s managed such longevity. “I can’t imagine thinking about retirement,” Tritt said. “It’s a word that doesn’t come up in my vocabulary, simply be-

If you go What: Travis Tritt live When: 10 p.m. Friday, April 28 Where: North Stage, downtown Main Street Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com

cause I enjoy (my career) too much. I absolutely love what I do for a living.” Bethany Blundell is a freelance writer and may be reached at bethany [email protected].


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10 April 2017

From songwriter to stage, Musgraves closes fest BETHANY BLUNDELL FOR SUN-NEWS

Even though her name has only been in lights for the past few years, Kacey Musgraves worked her entire life to get to that point. The singer/songwriter grew up in Golden, Texas, and lived the typical small town lifestyle. She began singing at the age of eight and wrote her first song by the age of nine. That’s when she truly fell in love with music. According to Rolling Stone, Musgraves had two locally-recorded albums by her early teens. At the age of 18, she packed her bags and moved to Nashville to pursue her music career. The next few years, she worked various jobs while trying to break into the industry. After playing in open mics and finishing seventh on the singing competition “Nashville Star,” she began working as a staff songwriter for Warner Bros./Chappell. Here, she spent her days putting lyrics on paper and learning from other writers. Her persistence paid off, and she soon found her own success. According to CMT, she has produced cuts for multiCOURTESY

Kacey Musgraves headlines the final night of the 2017 LCCMF.

platinum artists, including Martina McBride and Miranda Lambert. In terms of her own singing career, she has opened for Willie Nelson, Lady Antebellum and Kenny Chesney, among others. “Everything is blowing my mind right now,” Musgraves said in an interview with CMT. “It’s hard to think too far into the future because so many cool things have already happened. So, I’m looking forward to all of it. It’s going to be a learning experience – just getting out there and seeing what songs people love, having a good time and getting to know people.” The artist released multiple albums and had many successful singles, including winning Grammy and CMA awards. She is known for her lyrical humor and her songs that are often dubbed controversial for questioning society’s status

quos. This includes what she tells CMT is one of her favorite songs, “Follow Your Arrow.” The tune talks about doing what you love and loving whomever you want, no matter if you are judged or it is viewed as acceptable. “Being a songwriter brings a different facet to what all this means,” she said in a New York Times interview. “Obviously, it’s been a dream of mine to have a song of my own on the radio. But to have one that I wrote with two friends of mine on the chart as well at the same time, as a songwriter, it really solidifies that love [of songwriting] for me. I love performing and singing, but I think my heart lies in constructing songs.” Bethany Blundell is a freelance writer and may be reached at [email protected].

If you go What: Kacey Musgraves live When: 10 p.m. Saturday, April 29 Where: North Stage, downtown Main Street Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com


April 2017 11

JOSH BACHMAN/SUN-NEWS

Deena Norell, practices team roping at the New Mexico State University Rodeo Arena. The NMSU Women's Rodeo team is ranked first nationally.

NMSU rodeo team celebrates 75 years CARLOS ANDRES LÓPEZ LAS CRUCES SUN-NEWS

When Kentucky native Logan Corbett landed in Las Cruces last year to become the new rodeo coach for New Mexico State University, he inherited a highly accomplished athletics program that turns 75 this year. But the coaching job, Corbett said, also came with added pressure to build on the team’s history of success. Corbett is the second person to hold the title of rodeo coach, following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Jim Dewey Brown, the team’s first official coach who was hired in 2002. Before Brown, the team was managed for several decades by academic advisers from NMSU, Corbett said. It wasn’t until 2002 that the university recognized the team needed a full-time coach, he added. Under Brown’s leadership, Corbett said, “The team took a drastic turn for the better,” transforming the team from a loosely organized athletics program established in 1942 to a nationally dominating force. Brown’s teams earned seven national championships, nine regional championships in men’s events and seven regional

championships in women’s events, Corbett said. Brown also increased the team’s size, reaching an all-time high of 90 members in 2009. “There was a lot of pressure,” Corbett recalled. But Corbett, who joined team in the middle of the 2015-16 season, hit the ground running. At last year’s College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming, the team captured three thirdplace finishes, and the men’s team finished 10th in the nation, the first time since 2011. “My first year was outstanding,” Corbett said. “But there’s definitely been a learning curve.” This season, the men’s and women’s teams are surpassing Corbett’s expectations. With two rodeos left in the 2016-17 season, including a competition later this month at the Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds, the women’s team is ranked first in the Grand Canyon Region, while the men’s team is ranked third, according to the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. Nationally, the women’s team is See TEAM, Page 12


12 April 2017

Team Continued from Page 11

ranked first, and the men’s team is ranked 14th. “Obviously, the ultimate goal in college rodeo is to win a national championship as a team, and I think we have a real shot this year,” Corbett said. The finals will be held in June in Casper. Women on the team said their remarkable season is due to hard work and dedication. “We’re out here every day, working so hard,” Morgan Hand said, “and for us to be not only recognized at the regional level, but to be recognized nationally is important to us.” Hand said she and other women on the team typically practice four days a week for about three hours in preparation for the rodeo later this month at the fairgrounds. “We’re definitely preparing harder, trying to know the stock a little better,” she said. “I definitely see a lot more people out here – we’re just really trying to dominate our home rodeo.” Deena Norell, another team member, said she expects the women to continue

JOSH BACHMAN/SUN-NEWS

Nick Clark, a New Mexico State University freshman, checks his saddle and gear before saddle bronc practices at the NMSU rodeo team practice arena.

their winning streak at the upcoming rodeo. She also believes they have a good shot at winning the national championship in June. “We have really talented girls on our team that work hard and put the time and effort into it,” she said. Currently, the full team has 65 members, Corbett said. They practice several

times a week at a rodeo facility on Aggie Road Drive, near the base of Tortugas “A” Mountain. He emphasized that teamwork has made the program a success over the years. “It’s a team effort,” he said. “It’s such a large operation that it’s too big for any one person.” To help manage the team, Corbett hired two assistant coaches, Oobie Hawkes and Tommy Simpson. “When Logan got hired, it worked out and I talked him into letting me work for him,” said Hawkes, who is working on a Ph.D. in marketing at NMSU. In late March, five-year team member Ty Anderson, a master’s student in accounting, was fine-tuning his bull-riding techniques. But Anderson’s preference is calf-roping, which he said he has been doing since he was 6. “My best time in a calf-roping event is 8.0, but I’m to get 7 seconds at some point,” he said. Anderson is ranked third in the Grand Canyon Region in tie-down roping. Chance Valdez, also of NMSU, is currently ranked first in this category. Anderson said he practices roping two to three days a week for least an hour and likes to hit the gym at least five days a week to keep in shape.

But Corbett said rodeo events also require mental preparation, in addition to physical training. “Most people will tell you that rodeo is 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical,” he said. “Every event that you’re doing, not just the rough-stock events, but every event, is so dangerous. I believe that there has to be a large amount of mental preparation.” He said he stresses to team members that they should visualize “their perfect ride or perfect run” and set personal goals – and aim to break them. Looking toward the future, Corbett said he wants to create an even tighter team bond. “I want NMSU rodeo to continue to grow more and more as a family,” he said. “We lean on each other and we help each other not only in the arena, but also in school.” The team’s spring rodeo is schedule to take place April 28-30 at the Southern New Mexico Fairgrounds. This year, Corbett said, the team is providing free shuttle transportation for the public from NMSU to the fairgrounds. For additional information about the rodeo, visit aces.nmsu.edu/rodeo. Carlos Andres López can be reached 575-541-5453, [email protected] or @carlopez_los on Twitter.


April 2017 13

Eli Young Band on music, social media Group will play songs from forthcoming album ISABEL A. RODRIGUEZ FOR SUN-NEWS

The Eli Young Band is returning to its roots with its upcoming, as of yet, untitled album. “The new album kind of feels old school,” said Mike Eli, lead singer and one fourth of the country group. “It’s a little bit more garage band style, kind of like (our 2005 album), ‘Level.’ We weren’t necessarily going towards influences outside of Eli Young Band. It was all about going toward that garage band style that we know so well, that early definition of what we sound like.” Comprised of Eli, along with James Young (guitar), Jon Jones (bass guitar) and Chris Thompson (drums), the group got its start in 2000 while attending North Texas State University. Their self-titled, debut album came out in 2002. COURTESY

See ELI YOUNG, Page 14

The Eli Young Band is comprised of Mike Eli, Jon Jones, Chris Thompson and James Young.


14 April 2017

Eli Young Continued from Page 13

“What we want most is to continue doing what we do. As your life span continues down the road, you just hope music is big part of your life, even when you get old and gray.”

Audiences can expect to hear the Eli Young Band’s latest single, “Skin and Bones,” as well as other songs from the forthcoming album during the group’s performance at the Las Cruces Country Music Festival. The group is no stranger to the Southwest, and Eli said it’s the strong fan base that keeps bringing them back here. “We enjoy it,” he said. “If the crowd responds a certain way, and they’re having as much fun as you’re having onstage, the energy becomes something you look forward to. The Las Cruces area is one of those places.” Songs that especially resonate with audiences are the hits “Drunk Last Night” and “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” for which the band received a Grammy nomination in 2013. The group aspires to put on a good show and provide a brief escape from for its fans. For that reason, they also shy away from getting political at concerts, or expressing too much of their personal opinions in their music and interviews. “We respect each other enough

MIKE ELI LEAD SINGER OF THE ELI YOUNG BAND

where all four of us can have our own opinions without feeling as if one guy is speaking for all of us,” Eli explained. “It becomes a heavy thing. There’s a reason we’ve stayed together 17 years. One of my biggest pet peeves is when I go to a show and an artist is up there pushing an agenda on me, instead of letting me enjoy the music. This is about music and not politics. Some people need a break from that.” The guys are still finding their footing on social media. Scroll through their Twitter page, for example, and you’ll find rehearsal photos, concert reminders and a few videos, but not much else. The lack of forays into political stances and commentary on hot topics of the day are a stark contrast to some of their country music peers, who post constant updates on a range of subjects. Eli acknowledged that such updates don’t quite come naturally to the Eli

Young Band. “It’s more of an effort,” he said. “As you get older and into your 30s, starting a family, social media is not necessarily your highest priority, but it can be fun. People sometimes (think) they can say anything to you, which is kind of a double-edged sword. Our fans want to hear from us and we’re happy to do it.” The band easily connects with fans through they best way they know how: through music and in concert. It’s something Eli said they hope to continue well into the future. “We’re very fortunate to play music for a living,” he added. “What we want most is to continue doing what we do. As your life span continues down the road, you just hope music is big part of your life, even when you get old and gray.” Isabel A. Rodriguez is a freelance writer and may be reached at [email protected].

COURTESY

The Eli Young Band has been together for 17 years, and in that time has been no stranger to Las Cruces.

If you go What: Eli Young Band live When: 7:45 p.m. Friday, April 28 Where: North Stage, downtown Main Street Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com


April 2017 15

Tanya Tucker reflects on career, upcoming album ISABEL A. RODRIGUEZ FOR SUN-NEWS

Texas native Tanya Tucker first rose to fame at the age of 13 with the debut of her hit song, “Delta Dawn,” followed by the fan favorites “Love Me like You Used To,” and “San Antonio Stroll.” Regarded as a country music icon, Tucker continues to tour and play shows across the country, despite not having released a studio album since 2009. Before hitting the stage at the upcoming Las Cruces Country Music Festival, she shared her take on career highlights, reality TV — she starred in the 2005 reality TV show “Tuckerville” — and the love she has for her fans: Q: Catch us up on what you’ve been up to these past few months. Can we look forward to any new music from you soon? A: We’re going to break a record making this record. I’ve recorded the music and had a blast in the studio. Now we’re working on the label deal. I can’t wait for the fans to hear this album. We’re thrilled to come back to Las Cruces, again.

Q: You’ve had such a prolific career beginning at a very young age. What stands out to you as some of the highlights? A: That’s a tough question. Well, performing with my heroes, of course, such as Merle Haggard, George Jones and Loretta Lynn. I just love them so much. We’re losing our trailblazers every day. Q: Your reality show, “Tuckerville,” debuted at a time when reality shows were really starting to take off. What was your inspiration for doing the show and would you ever consider doing something like that again? A: That was so much fun, it was the real deal. We just allowed the cameras to capture it all, no filter. I thought it was fun to show the fans what it was really like. And yes, I’m an open book, let’s do another show! Q: Would you consider being a judge on some singing competition show? A: I’d love to mentor young artists. Q: Are you a fan of reality TV? A: Who isn’t? I love the Bravo shows — all the housewives! Q: At the festival you’ll be joined by

several other country music artists. Is there anyone in particular you’re looking forward to seeing perform? A: It’s an incredible lineup. It’s always fun to play festivals because I don’t get to see other artists unless we’re at an event or award show. I love seeing everyone and cutting up backstage telling war stories. Q: Is there anything (aside from your performance) that you’re most looking forward to seeing or doing? A: I love getting out there to the local restaurants. I’m a foodie. Q: What is your favorite song to perform live? A: “Delta Dawn.” It’s the song that put me on the map and I’m so thankful for it. Q: What else do you still hope to accomplish? A: I have new dreams every day and I’m always brainstorming with my team. I want to get this new album out. I want to keep touring and seeing the fans. I’m so thankful for them. They’re the reason for all my success and I appreciate them so much. See y’all soon! Isabel A. Rodriguez is a freelance writer.

COURTESY OF WEBSTER PR

Tanya Tucker

If you go What: Tanya Tucker live When: 8 p.m. Friday, April 28 Where: North Stage, downtown Main Street Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com

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26 April 2017

From Cruces to Nashville, Alyssa Newton is on the rise SPENCER TAYLOR FOR SUN-NEWS

Las Cruces’ homegrown country artist, Alyssa Newton, returns to perform at the 2017 Las Cruces Country Music Festival. Newton is currently working on a music degree at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she writes and performs often. “It’s kind of surreal honestly,” Newton said. “I grew up going to the festival, and to come back and play (for) it is a dream. I really enjoyed Cassidy Pope’s set. I remember my friend and me standing in the front row trying to get her to touch our hands.” For roughly 12 years Newton has grown as a musician, getting an early start at a relatively young age. She has been playing guitar since she was in the first grade, and got her first guitar 2 years later. “I definitely already had the inspiration to play music when I was young,” Newton said. “Going to Las Cruces Coun-

try Music Festival merely reinforced the inspiration that was already there.” As Newton’s music experience progressed she began to play in front of small crowds and soon expanded to playing at various venues and events around Las Cruces. “I got a lot of experience leading worship at school and at church,” she said. “I always played that music and country.” Her musical momenAlyssa tum is showing no signs of Newton slowing down as Newton continues her career in Nashville, a city that is nationally recognized for its significance to the country music scene. “Music was definitely the motivation to move to Nashville,” she explained. “I’m a songwriting major and I moved to chase songwriting. Belmont University is a really cool school. Some notable people went to this school, like Brad Paisley See NEWTON, Page 27


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If you go

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When: 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 29

What: Alyssa Newton live

Where: South Stage, downtown Main Street

and the Florida Georgia Line.” Apart from gearing up for LCCMF, Newton is focusing on a genre specific showcase series at Belmont. The winner of each genre’s showcase gets the opportunity to perform on the University’s “Best of the Best” show which includes performances from each genre’s showcase. Newton won the audition for the Christian genre. Performing with Newton at the country fest is a band made up of friends she made at university. “It will be really neat because I’ll get to show them Las Cruces and I don’t know if any of them have even been to New Mexico,” Newton said. As far as sound and style, Newton considers it to fall in the intersection between country and pop, much like one of her highly successful influences, Taylor Swift, and newcomer Kelsea Ballerini. One of the cornerstones of the style is lyrics about relationships. “A good chunk of my songs are about relationships,” she said. “The song ‘The Easy’ is about a relationship that I’m hoping for in the future. It’s kind of a cool because it may be for a future husband or

Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com and alyssanewton.com

spouse.” Newton has a few songs that add variety to her story telling. “I have another song called ‘Two Cents’ which is about people who maybe have too much to say and you wish they’d mind their own business a little more.” All in all, Newton is looking forward to serenading familiar faces from her days living in Las Cruces, but she is also excited to see the festival as a fan, as well. “I’m looking forward to getting to be part of the festival from behind the scenes, because I’m such a fan,” Newton said. “Just being on the same ticket with someone like Kacey Musgraves is a total honor.” Spencer Taylor is a freelance writer and may be reached at sirspence7@ya hoo.com.


28 April 2017

Brian Christopher and the Wild Oats head for Cruces SPENCER TAYLOR FOR SUN-NEWS

After forming roughly a year ago, Austin-based band Brian Christopher and The Wild Oats are making their first trip to New Mexico, to play on the Las Cruces Country Music Festival. Christopher is set to bring a unique blend of musicians and story-based songwriting to the festival, “Our sound is interesting to identify, because you might say it’s Texas Country, but it’s tough because we have a little bit of southern rock sprinkled in. Our members have a lot of different influences,” said Brian Christopher, the band’s front-man. Christopher’s band, The Wild Oats, is made up of experienced musicians that have toured in several other professional acts, and recorded with big name artists including Lyle Lovett. According to Christopher, the wide range of experience brought by each member is what keeps the band sounding interest-

ing. “I come from a little more of a rock background and our guitarist comes from a country background, so we’ll trade off solos and it gives us a different sound,” he explained. “We try to keep the songs from following a formula. We have songs that sound like there’s Foo Fighters influence, then another song will sound Texas Country. We just don’t want the sound to get old and boring.” From Christopher’s perspective, the band fits into the country music genre more because of what their instrumentation sounds like more than what their lyrical content is. “I try not to write thinking about what will go on a record so that the words are really about what I’m feeling at the time,” he said. This writing style leads to songs about a range of topics. For instance, the song “Hangover” is intended to be See WILD OATS, Page 29


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If you go What: Brian Christopher and the Wild Oats live When: 4 p.m. Saturday, April 29

humorous fun. Christopher calls it “almost dark humor, about partying and earning the hangover when you have the blue collar blues.” In contrast, the single “Ride With Me” has a recognizable theme about escaping work in the city in order to take a break in the country. “I wrote ‘Ride with Me’ when I was working for FedEx in Corpus Cristi,” Christopher said. “I wrote it while working during the holiday season, literally working six days a week before sun-up to sun-down. It’s about really wanting to get out of town and take a break and hangout with some friends in the country. I was getting sick of the city.” While the band’s individual members have played a variety of gigs in front of large crowds, including the large Austin festival South by Southwest, the Las Cruces Country Music Festival will be the first large multiband festival the band has played as a group. “A lot of us have been playing for

Where: South Stage, downtown Main Street Cost: $35 for single day, $60 for weekend pass (includes rodeo), $150 for VIP pass Info: www.lascrucescountrymusic.com and bcwildoats.com

over 15 years,” Christopher said. “Things have happened a lot faster for us than on other projects. A lot of it is that we’re seasoned now. Some say we’re lucky, but I feel that over time we’ve all payed our dues.” Christopher expressed excitement and gratitude at being offered the chance to see New Mexico and to play at LCCMF, which was an unexpected gig offer. “The way we got the gig was a nice surprise. One of the festival bookers saw some of our performances on Youtube and liked them enough to book us for annual festival for her town. That’s a huge compliment. We’re completely grateful.” See WILD OATS, Page 30


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Wild Oats Continued from Page 29

One of most exciting aspects of playing LCCMF for Christopher is the chance to catch other acts on the festival that he’s a fan of. “I really like Kacey Musgraves, we all like Marshall Tucker, and our bass player is a big fan of Eli Young,” he said “Also, one of my favorite things is to see the bands like us that are up-and-comers because you get to kind of follow their career from its beginnings.” In the end, it’s all about the fans having a good time. “Anytime we play a show audience response is what gets me going,” Christopher said. “Having a song climb the charts is cool, but walking off the stage while the audience cheers is the best. As a songwriter, getting positive live feedback is really the ultimate high, because is something I’m putting my time and life into.” Spencer Taylor is a freelance writer and may be reached at sirspence7@ya hoo.com.

COURTESY

Austin-based band Brian Christopher and the Wild Oats will perform Saturday on the south stage.