By Ben Cox
Jacksonville is getting a musical treat this weekend. Ray Wylie Hubbard has gone somewhat unappreciated for his influence on the Outlaw movement in the early 70s and his continued solid output of great roots music since.
Hubbard was a founding member of the Cowboy Twinkies band. He toured with and was closely associated with Willie, Waylon, Doug Sahm and the Lost Gonzo Band. He’s written songs for Jerry Jeff Walker, Hayes Carll and the progressive folk-rock band McKendree Spring. Like all outlaws, alcohol and drugs nearly crushed his career until a Texas guitarist named Stevie Ray Vaughan drove him to an AA meeting. After languishing through the 80s in those personal struggles, Hubbard returned to recording and songwriting in the 90s doing a solid mix of country, blues and old fashioned rock ‘n roll. Hubbard brings a full night of great songs and storytelling to Twisted Tree Music Hall on September 14. Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets start at $45.
Elsewhere in the area this week, Toxic Johnny begins a fall tour of several local venues. The well-traveled rock group will be at Big Daddy’s Doghouse in Winchester on Friday, September 12 starting at 8:30 p.m. Then, they come to Jacksonville with a visit to Kuhl Tyme Korner on Saturday, September 13 at 8 p.m.
Twisted Tree Music Hall will also be host of the Alfano-McKinnon benefit this year. Rock band Deja Voodoo will provide the tunes on Saturday, September 13. The doors open at 6 p.m. and they are selling raffle tickets to a host of prizes. Proceeds will benefit the Crisis Center Foundation and other local nonprofits.
Patriot’s Pub over in Waverly has been hosting a ton of local talent recently. Ramsey, Illinois artist Molly Seaton will take the stage Saturday, September 13 at 8 p.m.
Don’s Place gets in the mix this week, as well. They host a Texas singing couple who play traditional country music but add spice to it with some blues, soul, funk and even some Top 40 pop. The Lockharts will play Friday, September 12 starting at 7 p.m. If you miss them at Don’s, they will be at the Starlite Campgrounds the following night. Last but not least, Bloomington-Normal rockin’ country outfit Brushville will be at Evandy’s Boatel for a 2 p.m. show on Sunday, September 14.
Remember only you can prevent empty music venues. Support local music!
If you have a show in the Jacksonville area or are a Jacksonville artist/band that would like to be featured here, email Ben Cox with your live music schedule or information at elmcityradio@gmail.com.
