Country music on tap June 29 at Gazebo

TJ Thomas and Kentucky Strait will be at the gazebo 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.

This Thursday, the Gazebo Concert series welcomes back the popular country band TJ Thomas and Kentucky Strait. TJ, who attended school in Manchester and lived here for several years, is always happy to come back to see old friends and make a few new ones along the way!

Formed 21 years ago by band leader TJ Thomas playing lead guitar and vocals, the band consists of three other full time members: Ron Stewart on bass guitar and vocals, Bud Merglewski, piano and vocals, and Lyle Cantley--drummer and vocals.

TJ and the band have performed in various high-profile settings with well known artists; most recently in August 2015 appearing in Sandusky, Ohio with Marty Haggard. He's also performed on Grand Ole Opry WMS-AM 650 live, as well as Prime Country's Hot Country Spotlight, and was invited to take part in a Christmas music CD for the a Make A Wish Foundation in 2013. They've opened for such country stars as Steve Wariner, The Oak Ridge Boys, the late Conway Twitty, Michael Twitty, Tom T.Hall, Razzy Bailey, and Billy Crash Craddock, to name just a few.

TJ spent 17 years on the road across the United States and Canada, entertaining audiences both as a singer and songwriter. The band has an ability to not just play songs, but to entertain people through their musicianship, humor, and repertoire. They are sure to leave you wanting one more song!

The Gazebo Concerts are part of the Riverfolk Music and Arts Organization, and sponsored by Frank's Place, LaRock Dental, and Over the Edge Sports Bar, with additional support from The Manchester Wellness Coalition and Michigan Humanities Council. If you'd like to help support the Gazebo Concerts, you can make a secure online donation with PayPal or credit card on the Riverfolk website. (There's a "Donate" button in the top right corner of the page!)

Bring a blanket or a chair; bring a picnic from home or take out from one of our local eateries, and prepare to enjoy an evening of country music at the gazebo this Thursday--June 29 at 7:30 pm!

Look up TJ Thomas and Kentucky Strait at www.cegmi.com.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.