Why not begin your Memorial Day weekend by relaxing to music under the stars?
Entertainment organizer Jeanita Spillman looks forward to another series of Summer Stage Concerts that begin Friday, May 28, with Bobby Reed.
"Bobby lived in Benton until 1985 when he moved to the suburbs of Nashville to follow his life long dream of writing and recording music," Spillman said. "The lyrics are based on his imagination, with some truth from actual experiences thrown in. Some big names including George Jones, T.G. Sheppard and Loretta Lynn have recorded Bobby's music, and he returns to his Benton roots when he can.
"We are hoping for a large crowd to welcome Bobby for a return trip to the Billy Grammer Band Shelter of Capitol Park," Spillman said. "Entertainment starts at 7 p.m. and is free of charge. Don't forget your lawn chairs."
She said Benton Rangerette parents would have snacks and cold drinks for sale during the monthly music events.
Classic Country featuring Yvette Arview, Rob Arview, Oscar Shew, Roger Wheeler, Skip Thomas Jr. and Johnnie Cheshier take the stage on June 25, Spillman said.
"The band formed in 2009 and was the opening act at a former dance barn," she said. "Classic Country is comprised of musicians that reunited their friendship.
"The band Freedom will play on July 23," Spillman said. "The band also formed in 2009 and includes Marvin McComas, Kevin Miller, Sherman Taylor, Larry Stanton and Jim Overturf. The name of the band comes from McComas and Taylor's sons, who are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan."
Spillman said Jack Martin Music Masters is the featured entertainer for Aug. 27.
"Jack started playing in bands in 1957 and formed his own band in 1965," she said. "He lived and worked in Nashville for about six years and made CMT videos. Jack also performs monthly in Metropolis and Galatia.
"The Salty Dogs perform regularly at the Marion Eagles Club and have been scheduled to entertain the audience on Sept. 24," Spillman said. "Band members Jerry Piper, Dennis Downing, Gene Holderfield, Jim Mondino and Bill Patterson are all veteran musicians."
Downtown Benton, Inc., sponsors the summer lineup, she said. The entertainment begins at 7 p.m. the fourth Friday of the month through September.
