This week we welcome Lori King and Junction 63!

Women in bluegrass music is a sisterhood...our numbers are smaller than our talented brothers, but we bring a different sound and style to win the hearts of fans. Lori King is proud to be part of this amazing group of women, and hopefully a source of inspiration for others to also pursue their talent.

Lori and husband, Joe King who call Iowa home, were previously part of Bluegrass Addiction prior to forming their award-winning band, Lori King and Junction 63. Located in the upper Midwest, the King’s debuted their band at the Bluegrass Music Association of Iowa 2nd Annual Des Moines Area Festival in February 2014. The band is well known for their traditional sounds and hard driving instrumentals, paired with midwestern determination and grit.

Over the last seven years, the band has loved every festival performance, special event, and the opportunity to create and release two albums (and working on the next one!) Recently, they signed with Turnberry Records and plan to release their latest effort in the spring of 2021. Founding singer-bassist, Lori King describes how her bandmates showcase their personality along with their talent in each performance.

“Joe’s guitar and lead vocals are a direct extension of his personality. He becomes part of each song. While you need to rosin up the bow, and call out the Fire Department, when Kyle Murphy plays the fiddle! It can only be described as pure fire and passion. Our energetic banjo player, Mark Hargrove and his harmony vocals are the perfect pairing for these guys and Kevin Amburgey’s rhythmic chop, perfect leads and tight harmonies are second to none and really round out the band. As for me, I do what I do best and lead the effort onstage and off,” explained King.

The band is comprised of songwriters, arrangers, and multi-instrumentalists which gives them a wealth of originals to choose from – hard-driving numbers, heartwarming gospels, sing-along country grass, and the unexpected contemporary bluegrass compositions alike. Lori believes that she and Junction 63 have forged a strong connection with their audience by being authentic on and off stage and that is a true testament to being the best bluegrass band in the Midwest!

You can check their website: Junction63.com; or on their Facebook page: Facebook.com/Junction63Band.

This week we welcome The Branson Famous Baldknobbers!

In 1959, Mabe brothers Bob, Bill, Lyle, and Jim began performing twice a week in a converted roller skating rink on the Lake Taneycomo lakefront to entertain visiting fishermen at night. The brothers combined popular country tunes with Ozark Mountain music and threw in a dash of comedy to entertain audiences. Their instruments were simple like: the washtub bass, banjo, Dobro, and a mule’s jawbone for rhythm. Little did they know in the late 1950's that they would become the founding fathers of Branson's music show industry.

The brothers combined popular country tunes with Ozark Mountain music and threw in great, hillbilly comedy to entertain growing Branson audiences.

In 1969, the Baldknobbers, as the brothers called themselves, built a theater on Highway 76, making their act the longest continuously running show in town.

From their humble beginnings, they began growing in popularity and size, eventually converting an old skating rink into Branson’s first live- entertainment theatre. Now 62 years later, the big-red curtain raises every night at 8pm to entertain Branson visitors.

You can check out the Branson Famous Baldknobbers at their website: Balknobbers.com, or call their theatre at 417-231-4999.

This week we welcome Rhonda Vincent and Collin Raye!

Bluegrass award-winner Rhonda Vincent began her professional music career at the age of five, playing drums with her family’s band, the Sally Mountain Show. She picked up the mandolin at eight and the fiddle at ten, performing with the family band at festivals on weekends.

Rhonda struck out on her own, singing with the Grand Ole Opry’s Jim Ed Brown. Her opportunity eventually led to a deal with Rebel Records. Her work caught the attention of Giant Nashville’s president, James Stroud, who signed Vincent to record two contemporary country albums.

After Giant, she signed with Rounder Records where her passion for traditional bluegrass music flourished. She made her label debut in 2000 with Back Home Again, recorded with her band, The Rage. She showcases her hard-driving, high-energy contemporary bluegrass on The Storm Still Rages in 2001, One Step Ahead in 2003, Ragin’ Live in 2005, All American Bluegrass Girl in 2006, and Good Thing Going in 2008.

In 2000, Vincent won her first in a string of seven Female Vocalist of the Year Awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association. In 2001, she won the Entertainer of the Year Award. In 2011, Vincent released a collaboration album with Gene Watson titled Your Money and My Good Looks. During the 2020 Branson Christmas season, Rhonda produced and starred in her own show, Rhonda Vincent Christmas In Branson. She has a brand new album Music Is What I See.

Rhonda is constantly thinking of new adventures, songs, opportunities, and she loves the excitement and challenge of putting together a plan at the last minute. Anyone who has ever worked with Rhonda Vincent, knows they must be ready at a moment’s notice. There could be an impromptu recording session, a midnight drive to Canada to see Niagara Falls, a video shoot, or even a jam session aboard the Larry’s Country Diner/Country’s Family Reunion Cruise. Her motto is to always be ready for anything. It’s one of the secrets to her success.

For more information and tour dates, visit her website: RhondaVincent.com

Floyd Collin Wray was born in De Queen, Arkansas. His mother, Lois Wray, was a local musician; in the 1950s, she served as an opening act for
several Sun Records artists. Later, she became a solo musician in her own right; she would occasionally bring both Collin and his brother Scott onstage to sing harmony vocals.

By the 1980s, the two brothers began a country-rock band called the Wray Brothers Band, in which Collin assumed the stage name Bubba Wray. The Wray Brothers Band performed primarily in the state of Texas, Oregon and Nevada . By 1986, the duo changed their name to “The Wrays”, and released singles for Mercury Records.

In 1990 he was signed to a record deal with Epic Records. He debut single, “All I Can Be”, peaked at number 29 on Billboard. In 1992, the follow-up single, “Love Me”, gave him his first number one hit song.

With 24 top ten records, 16 #1 hits, and having been a 10 time male vocalist of the year nominee (5 CMA and 5 ACM), this truly electrifying performer of his era remains one of the great voices of our time.The man who has topped the charts with such great songs as "On the Verge," "One Boy, One Girl," "What the Heart Wants," "Every Second", "That Was a River", "Anyone Else", and "If I Were You", continues to touch hearts across the globe.

These days, Collin still travels and sings all across the Country. In 2014 he released his autobiography, “A Voice Undefeated”. In November of 2020, he released his latest album, “Scars”, which features collaborations with Miranda Lambert and Vince Gill. You can buy his music on Apple Music and Spotify.

For more information and tour dates, visit his website: CollinRaye.com

This week we welcome Bobby Marquez!

Bobby Marquez has a charismatic smile and refreshing, heartfelt honky-tonk style that stirs an energy with audiences around the globe. That music has earned the Texas-born singer/songwriter some notable honors with a Grammy considered song, multiple Academy of Western Artists Awards, CMA of Texas Awards and induction into the legendary Wheeling Jamboree.

Bobby Marquez has charted songs on the Music Row Chart, Texas Music Chart and several overseas music charts with tours across the U.S., Australia, Ireland and beyond. Bobby Marquez has been seen on national television shows, Larry’s Country Diner, The Penny Gilley Show, Better Nashville, Cheyenne Country, Studio 23
Nashville and Country Fix. His music is heard worldwide on radio. Satellite listeners can tune-in to Willie’s Roadhouse to hear Marquez’s music as well.

Marquez’s songwriting has been recorded by everyone from Alan Jackson and Ty Herndon to George Strait, Johnny Rodriguez and Rhonda Vincent. Bobby continues to tour, performing to crowded dancehalls, festivals and large concert stages which hehas shared with Ray Price, Mel Tillis, Johnny Rodriguez, Martina McBride, David Ball, Janie Fricke, Johnny Lee and Lonestar... just to name a few.

Bobby is also the host and founder of the annual St. Jude Children’s Hospital benefit, Country With Heart, as well as the Country Campfire Pickin’ virtual concert series.

For more information, fans can follow Bobby at www.bobbymarquez.com or www.facebook.com/bobbymarquezmusic.

This week we welcome The Down Home Country Show!

The Down Home Country Show is the best show in Branson to hear traditional Country Music. With an incredible cast of singers and pickers, you literally step back in time to the golden years of Country Music.

The show stars: "Entertainer of the Year", Jamie Haage, and "Fiddle Player of the Year", Melody Hart.

"Comedian of the Year", Jarrett Dougherty, and all of his crazy characters, will keep you in tears. The boys in the band will amaze you with their many talents.

Featuring the best of Classic Country, Western Swing and Gospel music, this show brings to life the music you will never forget. Enjoy all the songs that made you fall in love with Country Music.

For more information on Down Home Country, call 417-335-2484, or visit GrandCountry.com.

Showtime is 10am! If you miss this show, you've missed Branson!

This week we welcome, from Rick McEwen’s Big Show, Rick McEwen!

Branson’s Imax is hosting Rick McEwen’s Big Show...and it’s a big deal!

Any longtime loyal fan of Branson has likely enjoyed a show that featured the talented McEwen, including The Jim Stafford Show, where he spent nearly 14 years pickin’ and singing to the delight of audiences night after night!

A sensational singer and bass player, it’s especially exciting to learn that Rick McEwen is headlining his own show on the Little Opry Theatre stage at the IMAX Entertainment Complex! The Big Show will feature this legendary artist’s favorite gospel, classic rock, bluegrass, and classic country songs every Monday afternoon from April through November.

In addition to being a sought-after entertainer in Branson, Rick McEwen has served as a producer for several shows, and spent many years performing in Nashville. His resume also includes performing with country music greats like Earl Scruggs and Webb Pierce, as well as bluegrass legends like The Dillards.

Show times are Sunday & Monday at 2:30pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Imax Little Opry Box Office: 417-335-4832, or visit: BransonImax.com.

This week we welcome funny man, Matt Gumm!

Matt Gumm literally grew up around variety shows at Lake of the Ozarks, so at the age of 30, he takes to the stage like a seasoned pro. Of course, growing up with Thom "Gabby" Gumm as your dad & mentor didn't hurt. In fact, he learned so well, Matt was added to the Main Street Opry act at the age of seven.

Long before that, though, he seemed to know what he was going to do with his life. His mom Sandy will tell you that he spent everyday up on his bed, with a make-shift curtain that hung from the ceiling, with wigs and props doing his "show". It was in these very early years that a family friend thought it would be "funny" to buy Matt a toy set of drums. Well, the joke was on him, because Matt started playing those things and he was a natural! All that practice may have been painful at times for the family, but it definitely paid off.

While in High School, Matt was the only student chosen out of his class to attend the Missouri Fine Arts Academy because he excelled in Music, Art & Drama. Fresh out of high school, Matt spent 5 years developing his own reputation as a gifted comedian and musician on the stage of the long-running Lee Mace's Ozark Opry in Osage Beach, Missouri. Once again, his family ties drew him back to work along side his dad and mom at the Main Street Opry in Osage Beach. There he honed not only his comedy skills with his dad, but he came into his own with his impersonations. He's brought the house down with his take on such artists as Garth Brooks, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Tony Bennett, Rod Stewart & Sammy Davis, Jr., just to mention a few.

Clay Cooper caught his act and knew he wanted to be the first to introduce Matt to Branson. Currently, he is the craziest addition to Clay Cooper's Country Express where you can experience Matt's family friendly, high-energy

fun, visual humor, and surprising abilities on some unusual instruments. When he's not performing, he enjoys spending time with his wife Katie, daughter Norah Sue, and son Nash.

You don't want to miss Clay Cooper and his Live Band, 10 Dancers, vocal trio Third Power, and comedian Matt! He also features outstanding youth entertainers Colton & Caden Cooper! This high-energy show is filled with singing, dancing, comedy, 24 entertainers on stage, great visual effects, and a variety of music - old and new country, rock, current hits, gospel, and patriotic!

Clay shares the stage with his cast members in a high energy, country music variety show guaranteed to make you tap your toes, stomp your feet, and even let out a holler or two!

For more information call 417-332-2529 or visit ClayCooper.com.

This week we welcome C.J. Newsom!

C.J. Newsom's Classic Country & Comedy gives Branson the best of country's legendary ladies!

Newsom has been delighting audiences with the music of the incomparable Patsy Cline for years, and now her show features huge hits from other leading ladies of song, including Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Judy Garland.

You'll also hear songs from some of music's most famous male artists -- hits from the likes of Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, and more will share the spotlight.

On top of all that phenomenal music, you'll be treated to one of the area's most beloved comedians, the king of Branson comedy, Mr. Terry Sanders!

For everyone who loves to hear her sing Patsy, C.J. Newsom's Classic Country & Comedy will still give Branson audiences the songs they love, including "Sweet Dreams," "Walkin' After Midnight," "She's Got You," "I Fall to Pieces," and the sensational song penned by the legendary Willie Nelson, "Crazy." And C.J.'s amazing vocals will be backed by one of Branson's best live bands! Don't miss out on this extravagant concert in Branson.

For more information call 417-544-8700 or visit AmericanaTheatreBranson.com.

This week we welcome, from The Clay Cooper Country Express, Clay Cooper!

Clay Cooper has been performing for Branson audiences since the age of 16, originally coming to Branson to perform with a kid's band known as the Texas Goldminors. Clay loved country music, loved singing and playing bass, and loved meeting new people.

What better place to do it than Branson, Missouri! He continued performing in several Branson shows and now celebrates his 34th season performing. Clay hangs out after every show, greeting the audience and meeting new fans!

Don't miss Clay Cooper and his Live Band, 10 Dancers, Trio 3rd Power, and Comedian Matt Gumm! He also features outstanding youth entertainers Colton & Caden Cooper! This high-energy show is filled with singing, dancing, comedy, 24 entertainers on stage, great visual effects, and a variety of music - old and new country, rock, current hits, gospel, and patriotic!

Clay shares the stage with the stage with his cast members in a high energy, country music variety show guaranteed to make you tap your toes, stomp your feet, and even let out a holler or two!

For more information call 417-337-7123 or visit ClayCooper.com.

This week we welcome Doug Gabriel and Trey Wilson!

Doug Gabriel's #1 Hits Tribute Show is everything the name implies and so much more!

One of Branson's longest running and most successful entertainers, Doug Gabriel gives you everything he's got on songs that everyone knows and loves! Hits from today's artists, yesterday's hit-makers.

Doug started singing at the age of two, and began using his God-given talent professionally at the age of twelve. Several years later he began touring and opening for many other stars like Marie Osmond, Roy Clark, Tony Orlando, Tanya Tucker, Bobby Vinton, Mel Tillis, The Gatlins, Moe Bandy, Ronnie McDowell This is an example of a man who never lost sight of making his professional dreams come true. Doug’s talent, consistency, and his persistence made a diamond in the rough, a shining star.

As a long-time favorite in Branson, it wasn’t a stretch that in 1994 his own show was created, “The Branson Morning Show, starring Doug Gabriel.” His talent has made him Branson’s Most Awarded Performer, and soon he began performing at night to the same ovations he got during the day. He remains very passionate about music and entertaining Branson audiences but, more than anything, he's passionate about family. Plus, Doug plays his World Famous Mufftar, a guitar made out of a 1969 Thunderbird muffler!

He, and his family, are the 8th longest running act in the Branson area. This is due to his seemingly effortless talent, the quality of his show, and the altering of his show each year to keep things fresh. His talent and personal appeal will keep you coming back every time you are in Branson.

Doug performs his show at The Branson Famous Theatre! For more information, or to order tickets call the Branson Famous BoxOffice: 417-231-4999 or visit DougGabriel.com.

Trey started his singing career in a small Baptist church at the age of three and hasn't stopped since. He has shared the stage with artists such as The Cathedrals, The Kinsmen Quartet, The Happy Goodmans, The Gaither Homecoming Tour, the late Dottie Rambo and traveled for nearly three years with the Plainsmen Quartet.

Born and raised in the Lone Star State, Trey was a senior in High School when he joined Grand Country in 2003. Trey was performing at the National Quartet Convention where Mike Patrick first met him. Mike was so impressed with Trey that he flew him to Branson for an audition and hired him on the spot. At the young age of 17, Trey packed up and moved to Branson to start the job, finishing high school by correspondence.

During his 10 years with us, Trey was such an important part of the Grand Jubilee, New South Gospel, and Branson Country USA. His contributions went far beyond just being the New South lead singer. He was involved in vocal arrangements for both the stage and recording projects, in addition to assisting with many of the production elements of our shows.

Trey left the group in August 2013 to pursue a career back in his home state of Texas. He took a marketing and sales job with GSD Companies based in Houston. GSD is a global scrap business which has also expanded into industrial demolition services for the petrochemical industry across the United States, and marine construction and dredging along the US Gulf Coast.