The following is from the Riders
In The Sky website: "Some
call it cowboy music; some call it folk music; some call it the Best in
Western music. Call it what you like---the bottom line is this: Riders
In The Sky deliver pure and priceless entertainment. The moment
America's Favorite Cowboys step up to the microphone the magic begins,
allowing listeners to leave behind the frenzied pace of today's living and
lose themselves in the romantic, comical and whimsical world of the
singing cowboy.
Since 1977, Riders In
The Sky have faithfully tended a musical tradition kindled by singing
cowboy legends such as the Sons Of The Pioneers. Throughout their
collaborative career, they have branded the genre with their own mark,
crafted from a well-balanced mix of both classic and original western
songs, smooth harmony, hot licks and slapstick comedy. Over two decades,
more than 4,000 shows, 200 national TV appearances, 200 public radio
shows, 2.3 million miles on the road, three television series and dozens
of albums down the trail, a group that began with a commitment to carry on
an American musical tradition has itself become a national treasure."
I caught up with Riders In The Sky, May 19, 2000,
for their 4,122 performance in Alexandria, Virginia. I had seen this
long lived group over the years on Grand Ole' Oprey broadcasts, and even
children's programs, and always was drawn to their great musical talent,
"cowboy way" wholesomeness (even with the act's occasional off
color/double entendre jokes), and throwback to an earlier perhaps less
complicated era.
I was not disappointed by the experience! In
fact, the combination of colorful outfits, Woody Paul rope tricks,
excellent musicianship/vocals (Ranger Doug is an accomplished yodeler),
and something of a 'don't take life too seriously' persona made for a
delightful evening. Even better was the group's taking timeout to
sign autographs, answer fan questions, and pose for photos after the show
(thanks guys). These are no dumb cowpokes either, as the riders all
possess advanced college degrees, but obviously chose a career path better
suited to their talents and desires (lucky for us they did).
For anyone, that wants a great family outing, I
would strongly recommend an evening with Riders In The Sky! |