‘Gone Country’, a tribute band paying homage to the music of Alan Jackson, was hosted by the Doghouse at Ole Red’s in Tishomingo on September 7. Local musicians formedthetributeband in 2019.
The group had a slow start due to the onset of Covid, and it took three years to establish themselves and start performing at various venues which included many in the Dallas area. They have performed at Bernhardt Winery several times. They said their favorite was a recent gig in Ruidoso, NM at the Altos Lakes Golf and CountryClubwheretheyhad the most people on the dance floor at one time performing the song “Remember When.” Theconcertprovidedamuchneeded relief in the wake of recent tragedies to the area.
The group lineup for Saturday night included Scott Jones on lead vocals and guitar,CarolJonesonbackup vocals, David Alexander on pedal and lap steel guitar, Gary Ishee on guitar, Steve Oldridge on bass and Kirk Priddy on drums and Ric Dinker on his fiddles.
The crowd was enthusiastic, and the Doghouse was at full capacity. A meal of smoked pork bites, mashed potatoes, coleslaw and a roll wereincludedwiththeprice of a ticket to the show.
Jones and the group performed many hits from Jackson. One could feel as if they were live at one of Jackson’s shows.
In this era of global uncertainty, love is a vital component for everyone, and Jackson’s music offers a powerful remedy. The setlist included favorites such as ‘Drive’, ‘Don’t Rock the Jukebox’, and of course ‘Gone Country’, with ‘Where Were You’ evoking a strong response from the audience.
This song has become a reminder of a shared experience, reminding everybody of the 9/11 attacks and gives one a sense of togetherness through its powerful words, still capable of causing goosebumps. The opening act featured Tanner Yong who always gets a great response from the crowd.