|
|
 |
|
Reply
| | | From: dvdman (Original Message) | Sent: 9/2/2008 5:03 AM |
“International Steel Guitar Hall of Fame Ceremony Coverage”
Chicago (IL.) Thousands of Country Music aficionados and musicians travelled to Scotty’s 37th Annual International Steel Guitar Convention held at the swank Millennium Hotel in downtown St. Louis, Missouri August 28th-31st. The four-day convention featured numerous booths, seminars, late jam sessions, and of course hours of different types of fine steel playing! Some of the artists that performed at the convention were the lovely Leona Williams, and Country Music legend Jack Greene… among others.
Nearing the end of the International Steel Guitar Convention, The Steel Guitar Hall of Fame Awards took place on Saturday August the 30th. The Ceremony began promptly at 2pm with an introduction from the man himself, Dewitt (Scotty) Scott. Dewitt Scott is the brains behind the entire convention, and is also an accomplished steel player himself. After Scotty’s introduction, steel players Norm Hamlet and Julian Tharpe were presented with their plaques onstage by Scotty.
The audience was treated to a few surprises throughout the afternoon. The first one was a rare appearance from Country Music superstar Barbara Mandrell, who retired from the business completely in 1997. Mandrell attended the ceremony to support her former steel player, Norm Hamlet. Looking fabulous, Barbara took the stage wearing an elegant black suit jacket with matching pants. Time has definitely been good to her. She praised Norm while telling the audience how thankful she was to be there to support him for all the years of their working in the business together. It was a once in a lifetime moment and the ones that were there to share it were very fortunate!
Legendary musician and longtime Wagonmaster, Don Warden was the final inductee to be called to the stage. Don’s fellow musicians, friends, family, and supporters all gathered inside the hotel ballroom to show their support. Don took the stage and thanked everyone for their loyalty and friendship through the years; he also mentioned the late Porter Wagoner and their working relationship on “The Porter Wagoner Show,” and other career endeavors. At certain times during Don’s acceptance speech, he became teary-eyed. It was a touching moment that captivated the audience.
Dolly’s backup singers Richard Dennison, Jennifer O’Brien, and Vickie Hampton drove in from Nashville and surprised Don by showing up to perform for him during the ceremony. Country Music legend Jack Greene represented the Grand Ole Opry by showing his support for all three inductees.
The final surprise of the afternoon was a grand one! Country Music veteran Jack Greene (Statue Of A Fool, There Goes My Everything, All The Time) took the stage and much to the audience’s delight, he received a standing ovation without even performing! Jack is known for being one of the sweetest entertainers in the business, and he lives up to it no matter where he goes! He happily greeted Don and congratulated him before taking a seat to enjoy the ceremony.
Don’s longtime dear friend, Country Diva Dolly Parton flew in from California, where she is currently working on the musical adaption of “9 to 5” which is slated to open September 6th at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles before moving to Broadway early next year. Dolly was dressed rather casually wearing a pair of white denim jeans with a white top and a fitted blue denim jacket. Looking exquisite, she was covered in rhinestones from head to toe…as usual!
Dolly took the opportunity to tell Don how much he meant to her and how glad she was to be there to share his special day with him. Dolly excitedly told the audience, “I’ve come here all the way from California where I’m working on my “9 to 5” musical.” Don added, “I thought you still were in California.” The audience replied in laughter. It was very evident Don had no idea that Dolly was coming to the event. He was greatly thrilled that she did!
Working the crowd with her charm and witty sense of humor, Dolly interacted with the audience and the large group of fans in front of the stage. She even took the time to sign a few autographs before going into moving performances of “I Will Always Love You,” and her classic “Coat of Many Colors.” Don and his wife Ann looked on from behind as Dolly performed for everyone.
A very touching version of “I Will Always Love You” showcased Dolly at her best! Her angelic voice sounded as pure as ever. Many people in the audience were moved to tears by the song. A pleasing version of “Coat Of Many Colors” featured heavy accompaniment from the steel guitar, which added a new twist to the well-loved tune. Dolly’s fine trio of backup singers provided sensational harmony to the songs.
After Dolly’s performance she posed for pictures with Don and his family in front of his plaque. She waved to the audience, hugged Don and his wife Ann, and then left the stage.
For more information on Don Warden, please visit his official MySpace website here; http://www.myspace.com/donwardenmusic
|
|
 First
Previous
No Replies
Next
Last
|
|
|
Free Forum Hosting
Important Announcement
