www.BransonShowsReviewed.com

A Quarter Century of The Best Performing Artists

and Other Memories of Branson

These are my memories and awards that I would have given to the performers and shows, if I would have given them out 25 years ago till now.  If I have misspelled names or made mistakes in my memories, feel free to contact me with changes.  BransonShowAwards@gmail.com.   I welcome emails and calls to discuss my memories.  Feel free to call, I have free long distance, so I can call you back and not cost you anything. 

Best Show

1.   Lowe Sisters                                                        Lowe Family Theater

      The group was made up of 4 real sisters, Teresa, Sheila, Kathy, and Sandy.  Sheila was the lead singer and I loved to hear her sing "Cry Baby".  She hated that song but would sing it for me a few times during the summer when we would be in the audience.  Sheila and Sandy played the comedic character, Elvira.  Kathy and her husband Mark Pearman were terrific performers.  Teresa sat at the piano and made those keys rock n roll.  They performed the first half of the shows and then a National Star performed the second half.  I don't remember every person in the band, but I do remember, fiddle champion, Mark Pearman on the fiddle and Larry Kent on the lead guitar.  They had a great Quartet called the Ozark Mountain Boys.  The group contained Mark Garner and Mark McCauley.  The Noblemen, The Wilhite Brothers, was a fantastic trio that had a great gospel sound.  Marty, Larry, and Jeff are probably my favorite male group of the 80's and 90's.  Toby Gaines was a 12 year old "Brenda Lee" type of singer.  She was good and Brenda told me that she captured her youth and voice.  I would love to see those girls perform again and Sheila sing, "Cry Baby".  I found a copy of it on ebay in the 45 RPM mode and have it in my jukebox.  We became pretty good friends during the years they were singing.  I consider the Wilhite's good friends to this day.  I haven't seen Teresa or Sandy for 15 years, but I have seen Kathy and Sheila.  It all ended when Jim Stafford bought their theater.

2.   Branson Brothers At Silver Dollar City              Echo Hollow Amphitheater

     This show had so much talent it burst with enjoyment.  Stacy Gravatt highlighted the band and began the show with such class.  There was a group of 3 young ladies that I fell in love with.  The girls sung under the name of Tapestry.  They sang songs from the fifties and some of the groups from the 40's.  They were very attractive also and dressed so nicely.  I remember some of their names as Chris Wilson and Tanya.  I do wish they were performing again.  The Branson Brothers consisted of Jimmy Ponder, Rick Baird, Kaufman, and Dan Britton.  They were really hot at the time and deservedly so.  Their shows were very good.  I really love the song "Heartmender", the title of the Warner Brothers CD that was released.  I think they should have made it big, but they did chart a few songs but failed to get that one great big hit needed to become national stars.  The comedian was an asset also.  I only remember the name Percy.  But this show was one of the best shows to see in the summer.  I am glad that we had Silver Dollar City season passes and were able to go once a week.  I can still see my kids running down the sidewalk trying to get front row seats on Jimmy Ponder's side.  I still think Jimmy is one of the best vocalist in town.  When I go to the Pierce Arrow or Branson Brothers show now, I long to put that group back together again.  I can dream can't I?

3.   The Wilhite Family                                                 Echo Hollow Amphitheater

      This show took the time slot at the Echo Hollow Amphitheater on Sunday as the Branson Brothers occupied during the week.  The three Wilhite Brothers and their wives and children took the stage and performed for almost 2 hours.  The song I remember the most was their wives rendition of "Men".  They would sing a verse and then the brothers would answer them with the song "Women".  That song came out right after the Forrester Sisters "Men" went to the top of the charts.  I can still see and hear them in my mind.  I would love to be able to see that show again.  The Wilhite Brothers were Jeff, Marty, and Larry.  Larry is managing the Mansion and Oak Ridge Boys Theaters and Marty is musical director of "Country Tonite".  Chris Gentile and Paula Wilhite were two of the wives that were so talented and added so much to my entertainment.  Chris Gentile, I hear, lives in Nashville.  The family was so nice to me when my father died on Father's day in 1991.  I was just a fan and to have them send a card and flowers goes beyond being nice.  I still consider the Wilhite's as my friends.  The best medley was the fifties medley they did in most of their performances after leaving the Lowe's.  If anyone has a video of this show, I would love to have it.

4.   The Presley Country Jubilee                                 Presley Family Theater

     The Presley's have had the knack of selecting the best talent in town that they could get to sign a contract.  They have had three of the top female vocalists of all time sing in their show.  They also have had at least 3 of the best male vocalists and Master of Ceremonies to hit the Branson Stage.  With the likes of Lori Locke, Sue Ann O'Neil, Paula Wilhite, Devonna Wikizer, Dr. David Strubble, Chris Dodson, Cliff Wagner, Danny Byrd, Jay Wikizer, how could they not be one of the best shows in town.  John Presley at the piano is one of the best pianists of the last decade.  His Uncle Gary, as Herkimer, is a joy to watch.  His comic skits are really great.  However his son, Eric Presley as Cecil, is starring in the show, and might be better than his Dad.  They always have fantastic and elegantly styled outfits which change at half-time.  I have noticed that when a featured artist performs solo, they have a different outfit on while performing.  The comedy is constant with Herkimer and Cecil.  I really enjoy the stories of his wife, Patty Possum Lips.  That show has pure talent from front to back.  Judging from the names above, I am sure you will agree. 

5.   Baldknobbers Hillbilly Jamboree                            Baldknobbers Theater     

     When we started coming to Branson in 1986, we bought a membership at Treasure Lakes Resort.  We would stay here almost 3 months, being teachers allowed us to do this.  During the summer we would see the Baldknobbers Jamboree up to 3 times while we were here.  The first week that we were here, we would plan the shows that we wanted to see.  When we got to the Baldknobbers ticket booth, I would have the person look for three days that we could sit in the front row on the left hand side.  That is where Droopy Drawers would stand and do his comical actions.  My children wanted to see him several times when we were here.  I remember how happy they would be each time we went to that show.  I remember Tonya Bilyeu, Chris Gentile, The Norris Twins, Kelly VanHoose, Gene Dove, Bob Leftridge, Roger Blevins, Stub Meadows and so many more.  Seeing this show was one of the neat things we did in Branson while we were here.  They always have many comedy routines in their shows.  In fact, I bet they have more time on the show doing comedy than music.  I asked Joy about her cousin, Tonya.  I was told that she is happy and not in music anymore.  What a shame, she sure could sing.

6.   The Braschler Family Show                              Braschler Family Theater, Hamner Barber Theater

     Cliff Braschler, Paul Braschler, Johnny Walker, Terry Sanders, Brad Bacon, Dean Church, Dee Schrock, and Tim, I really miss you a lot.  But, I have my tapes still, so I can enjoy you anytime I want.  Janice Braschler sang with them at the Gospel show, but not the country show.  A sister was with them sometimes, but I forget her name.  I can still see Tim going around the audience touching the ears and necks of the audience with a long feather.  My son, Kevin, was totally delighted by Tim's shenanigans.  This is where we met a great friend, Terry Sanders.  Paul had that youthful voice that just nailed a beach boys song.  Cliff was a great tenor, Paul as the lead, Johnny as the baritone and Brad Bacon as the bass made a fantastic male quartet.  They also had an all gospel show on Thursday's, I think Thursday.  Dean Church, a violinist, was with them for awhile and he is very good.  I would call him a violin player more than a fiddler.  He was with the Entertainers at Andy Williams in 2008.  I think Brad Bacon is a teacher and sings with his family on Sunday at the Grand Country Music Hall.  Dee Schrock was the female vocalist and added to the whole show.  Cliff is retired and Paul is a youth minister at a church.  Terry is still working at Silver Dollar City, but is missed on the strip.  The Braschlers opened what is now Hamner Barber Theater.

7.     The Texas Gold-Minors                                               Campbell's Ozark Jubilee Theater

     This great show brought many, many talented people to Branson that have made it big in the entertainment industry in Branson and the Nation.  Clay Cooper, Paul Harris, Michael Jackson, Wyatt Baird, Nancy Henson, and a few others were brought to Branson when they were actually a minor (under 21).  The talent that these performers displayed was phenominal.  They changed casts as the members reached their adult age.  Michael Jackson and Wyatt Baird are performing with National stars such as Kenny Chesney.  Erica Busey and Kelly Jackson were two young ladies that sang and clogged.  I really thought the show had a tremendous cast and that is proved everytime I see the alumni performing in Branson today.  I wish I could turn back the clock and see one of the shows again.  It was a great treat.  Congratulations on Clay Cooper buying a new theater on the strip to showcase his wonderful new show.  I hope Paul Harris lands somewhere.  He is such a talent that the people visiting Branson love.

8.     Jamin' Thomas Show                                                  Jim Thomas' Roy Clark's Celebrity Theater

     Jamin' Thomas was the daughter of Jim Thomas owner of Roy Clark's Celebrity Theater and the Lodge of The Ozarks.  Her show was very good and had several of the Branson celebrities of today performing.  I saw Janice Copeland for the first time in this show.  She blew my socks off.  Patty Davidson was performing with Dan The Man and Lucy.  She looks as young today as she did when I saw here over 20 years ago.  She entertained my children, wife, and me with her fantastic ventriloquist act.  Jamin' was an entertainer and put together a good show.  I bought a video of the show but it was damaged and I no longer have it.  I sure would like to have a copy if anyone has a copy that could be put on DVD.  Let me know and I will arrange to have it copied.  There was a bass singer that was very good, but I forgot his name.  Any help would be appreciated.  Oh to be back to the 80's so I could enjoy the shows one more time. 

Best National Star Show

1.     Brenda Lee                                                                    Lowe Sisters, Grand Palace, Loretta Lynn Theater

     I met Brenda Lee in Las Vegas in the spring of 1970.  I was living in Tucson, single and just started teaching.  I joined a Las Vegas bowling league at one of the Bowling alleys in Tucson.  Every bowling alley had one.  Instead of price money and trophies, we all went to Las Vegas to spend a three day weekend.  We were provided our rooms, one show, and a couple of meals.  The show that we were provided tickets to was Brenda Lee at the Fiesta Showroom at the Fremont hotel in downtown Las Vegas.  I saw here show every time she played while we were there.  At one of the shows, she asked me my name and where I was from during the concert.  I told her I was Gary from Tucson, AZ.  A loud cheer went up because there were 5 bus loads of people there in the audience.  She was taken aback at the applause for Tucson.  She asked me what I did and I told her I was a teacher.  The next year we went back and the same thing happened.  Brenda had her picture taken with me during the performance as she comes out to sing in the audience.  When I remained after the concert to have my polaroid coated, John asked me if I was Gary, the teacher.  I confirmed that I was, and he told me that Miss Lee wanted to take me to dinner and I was to meet her at the front bar.  I met her and I had a wonderful time with this classy lady.  For the next few years, I was notified when she was coming to Las Vegas and I would go and see her as often as I could.  She gave me her home phone number and we have been in contact ever since.  I lost her phone number sometime during a move.  She was appearing at the Lowe Theater in the fall of 1991.  Since I was a member of Treasure Lake, I had a cheap rental at the resort.  I found an inexpensive flight and came to Branson.  When I arrived, I went to the theater immediately.  She was signing autographs, I laid a stack of her albums on the table with copies of pictures that we had taken in Las Vegas.  She looked at the pictures and said, "My God Gary, where have you been".  I explained that I had lost her number in a move.  From that day on, we are a phone call away from each other.  She has been to my Branson house and I have been to her home a few times.  She is a regular person with that inescapable touch of class.  Her husband is also a neat person.  I hope she returns to Branson soon.  I continued to travel to Laughlin, Las Vegas, and Reno to see my favorite musical star.  I want to have her for dinner at my new house when she comes back to Branson.

2.     Barbara Fairchild                                                           Lowe Sisters, Barbara Fairchild Theater

     I met Barbara here in Branson at the Lowe Family Theater (Now The Jim Stafford Theater).  I went to her shows for several summers every time she was in town during the summer.  I had a season pass so I was able to go all the time and not hurt our budget.  During one of my visits I asked Barbara if she ever appeared in my hometown, Willcox, AZ, would she come for dinner?  Not one year later she was booked in Willcox to sing at the annual Rex Allen Days concert and parade.  When she arrived she sang at my school that I taught in.  I reminded her about her promise.  Neither one of us ever thought that Barbara would ever appear in Willcox.  She is and she agreed to come over for breakfast.  She was busy at the dinner times with pre-scheduled events.  When she arrived at our house, my parents were there and my Dad was infatuated with Barbara.  I had a large bedroom with all of my 15,000 records in there.  I took her in the bedroom and I got out all of her albums and she told me stories on every album.  My Dad came in and took a picture of Barbara and I lying on the bed, G rated, looking at her albums.  He then said he had blackmail material on both of us.  I have been a friend ever since.  I like to see her every chance I get.  In 2003 when my son was killed in a car accident, I looked Barbara up when I returned from his funeral.  She helped me and told me to seek counseling.  I did and I was able to accept it with my love intact.  I still miss him terribly and I still cry but The Compassionate Friends meetings help so much.  When my Dad died on Father's Day in 1991, I asked Barbara to record "Amazing Grace" for my Dad.  Barbara recorded it at her show shortly after his death so we could play the tape at Dad's funeral in Tucson, AZ.  Before she sang, she told the audience not to applaud or make noise because she was recording for a funeral for a dear friend.  She didn't know that I was there.  I cried through the entire song.  That tape is played at every funeral for my family.  My Mom keeps asking me if I still have it.  I do.  Barbara is a wonderful Christian and has definitely listened to the preaching of Jesus Christ.  Her ability to sing is very high but I always enjoy her stories.  The one I like the best is about the Baptist Church and the Camp Ground.  I laugh every time I hear it.  I love Barbara very much and she is right up there with Brenda Lee and Dottie West.

3.     Marie Osmond                                                               Roy Clark's Celebrity Theater

     I chased Marie Osmond around the country in 1987.  She was just coming as we were leaving an area, or she left right before we got there.  I remember traveling down the strip and seeing her name on the marque and saying how happy I was to finally have the opportunity to see her in person.  My wife had me stop and I got a ticket on the front row.  Virginia said she was tired and would stay in the motorhome with the four kids while I went to see Marie.  During the show, she asked me if I was married and I told her yes.  There was a woman sitting next to me that I told her was not my wife.  On the other side was a man, and she chuckled.  I told her that my wife was in the motorhome with my 4 children.  She had me come on stage and she prepared me for a duet of "Crazy" with her.  She sang the first line and I sang the second line.  She was surprised that I had a good voice and she let me sing the rest of the song.  The next day, at a restaurant, a woman came up and said that she enjoyed my show.  I told her that it was not my show, I was a member of the audience and my wife and kids confirmed it.  I really don't think the lady believed me.  I have always loved to sing and hoped to be on stage myself singing my favorite songs.  Oh well.

4.     Dottie West                                                                     Lowe Sisters, Mickey Gilley Theater

     I met Dottie West at the Lowe Theater (Jim Stafford) and we became fast friends.  I saw every performance when she came to Branson while we were here in the summer recess from our Arizona school.  I have a massive record collection that I still have to this day.  Over 30,000 45's and LP's give me alot of musical pleasure.  She autographed any record that I asked her to sign.  She was quite a lady and a friend.  On Father's Day in 1991, my Mother and I went to see Dottie West at the Mickey Gilley Theater on June 16,1991.  As we were leaving, I waved at Dottie West and told her goodbye.  She said, "Wait a minute, Gary.  I would like to talk with you after I finish signing autographs."  My Mother and I waited till Dottie was done signing.  I had her autograph some LP's the previous year and she was shocked that an RCA release was not known by her.  She checked it out and found out that she was not receiving royalties on the album.  She wanted to talk about a law-suit that she was fileing against RCA.  She wanted a copy of it, I had three and also would I testify where I bought them etc.  I assured her that I would do whatever she asked of me.  When my Mother and I returned to Treasure Lakes RV Resort, my Father, was dead.  He died of a massive heart attack.  I drove my Mother to Tucson in her motor home and we held the funeral.  The ashes were not spread until my Kids, wife, and I return from Branson in August.  The day we were driving to Mt. Lemon near Tucson, Arizona, we heard on the radio that Dottie West had passed away from her injuries.  I wrote Shelley West about the conversation I had had with her Mother about the bootlegged albums and my willingness to help.  I never heard from Shelley so I do not know whatever happened to the complaint that was to be filed.  I will never forget the times that Dottie talked with my Dad, Mother, Wife and children.  We all hold her in high asteem and always will.  I Love you Dottie.

5.     Steve Wariner                                                                Grand Palace

     Steve Wariner was my Son's favorite singer.  When Roger Miller became sick and couldn't perform, Steve Wariner and Brenda Lee were contracted to take Roger's place.  Being a friend of Brenda enabled us to be back stage at the Grand Palace with Brenda.  Of course, she had Tim come into her dressing room to meet my family.  Kevin was beside himself.  He had fallen off of his bike at Treasure Lake and his face was skinned quite a bit.  Steve knelt down beside Kevin and talked with him.  He was very gracious to my family.  He is such a gentleman and a fantastic performer.  He was here for about 2 weeks, if my memory is correct.  Since we were with Brenda, we got to see the show many, many times.  His voice and story telling songs is what makes Steve so memorable.  I will always remember Steve with fondness in my heart.  Kevin was so thrilled.  Thanks,  Steve.

6.     Pam Tillis                                                                        Mickey Gilley, Mel Tillis, Loretta Lynn, Welk Theater

     The first time that I saw Pam Tillis was her first year of popularity with the song "Don't Tell Me What to Do".  She took the place of Mickey Gilley one weekend.  Mickey could not perform.  I don't know why.  As the people came to the theater, they were told that Mickey would not be performing and Pam would take his place.  Everyone was offered a refund and all but 16 took it.  Pam was not known too well at the time.  The audience was scattered throughout the theater and when Pam came out, she asked us to move down.  I moved down to be on the first row, dead center.  During the show, she played most of the songs on her new album.  I had the album so I knew how good she was and would be.  I asked her to sing "Maybe It Was Memphis".  She looked at me and said, "Do you know that song".  I told her I did and it was the best song on the album.  I also told her that it should be her next single.  She turned around and told her husband, "See, I told you that was a great song and we should release it."  She sang it and I was in heaven.  I have been a fan since that day and will always remember our conversation and that concert.  I like to see Pam every year when she comes to Branson.  Take care Pam, you are a tremendous talent that I will never forget.

7.     Ronnie McDowell                                                           Lowe Sisters, Mickey Gilley, Grand Palace, Welk Theater

     Ronnie is the best Elvis tribute artist in the galaxy.  No one can sing Elvis better than Ronnie.  In many of the TV movies and features, Ronnie is the voice of Elvis.  However, I enjoy when he sings as Ronnie McDowell more.  Some of his songs are my favorite songs of all time.  I like the CD (album) where he sings some of the 50's and 60's.  His version of "Forever" is probably the best that I have heard.  James Marvelle sings it well also.  When he sings "Older Women", "New York Minute", "Unchained Melody", "Dream Lover", "You're Going to Ruin My Bad Reputation" and many more.  He has the ability to wrap my ears around his fingers and not let me go until he stops singing.  I will forever remember the concerts that I have seen in Branson and hope to see many more.  He is one of the best talents to ever record a country/pop song.  Ronnie come back to Branson, I will be there first in line.   

Best Male Entertainer

2.  Marty Wilhite                                                    Nobelmen, The Wilhite Brothers, Wilhite Family, Branson Belle, Country Tonite

     Marty can do it all.  He was responsible for all of the arrangements for the groups in which he was a member.  He plays several instruments and has a voice that you will not soon forget.  I wish I could hear his 50's medley just one more time.  I play all of their cassettes that I have put on CD,s every time I get the chance.  When I talk with him, he is so gracious and courteous to my children, wife, and me.  I enjoyed him on the Showboat Branson Belle but I thought that his full talent was not showcased.  In Country Tonite, I feel somewhat the same.  He is so good with the fifties songs. I would like to hear his new wife, Kenya Wilhite, and him do a medley of some duet songs.  I bet "Islands In The Stream" would be beautiful. 

Best Female Entertainer

2.   Sheila Lowe                                                           The Lowe Sisters

       I can still hear Sheila singing lead for the Lowe Sisters.  I always loved hearing her sing.  I always requested "Cry Baby", even though she hated the song, she usually sang it for me.  One of the parts that this young lady played was the comedienne, Elvira.  She was a hillbilly character that told stories during the comedy sections.  The joke I remember the most was when Elvira was mugged.  The robber frisked her up and down and kept asking for money.  He finally says that she has no money, but she responds, "If you do it again, I will write you a check".  I still laugh when I think of it.  Other comedians used that joke, but she was the first.  She also sang as Elvira.  I don't remember the songs, but I remember laughing at them.  My children loved that show and we saw it about once a week during the summer, because we had a season ticket.  Sheila was so talented and one of the best female entertainers of the 80's.

Best Male Vocalist

Best Female Vocalist

Best Young Vocalist

1.     Missy Crider                                                               Campbell's Ozark Jubilee

     Missy Crider was a young lady who sang with Campbell's Ozark Jubilee and the rest of that talented crew.  I remember her singing very well, but the thing I remember the most is her take on Minnie Pearl.  This is one memory that I am not 100% sure of that my old brain remembers. She was a fantastic entertainer and was loved by all the audiences that for which  she appeared.  She had a very nice voice that I will never forget.  She moved to Nashville and eventually became a TV star.  I have seen her in many shows through the years.  She married and has been acting ever since.  I never heard that she continued in her music career.  She still is very talented and beautiful.  I would love to hear this young lady sing again.  She was awesome.

2.     Clay Cooper                                                               The Texas Gold-Minors

     Clay is one of the best young entertainers to make a smooth transition to adulthood and keep his star ability in tact.  Clay is a fantastic man, father, husband and entertainer.  He has a voice as smooth as Conway Twitty.  In fact, I think his voice is as  good, if not better, than Conway.  I remember seeing Clay in the Texas Goldminors and haven't forgotten or wanted to forget about this awesome entertainer.  He was in Country Tonite for several years also.  But his true gift is putting a tremendous show together and his pick of a woman to be his wife.  Tina is as nice as she is pretty.  I hope to be able to claim the Cooper's as friends in the upcoming years.  I wish him all the luck in the world when he takes possession of his new theater across the street from the Titanic Museum.  I know he will be successful because of his work ethic.  I was so proud to give him the Critic's Male Award this year at his old theater.  I hope I will be presenting many more as the years fly by.  How about having a reunion in your new theater of the Texas Goldminors.  The Texas Gold-Middle Agers would be an awesome way to earn money for a selected charity.  Come on Clay, you need to think about the fact that the people of Branson deserve to relive some good ole days of you youngens.  Break-a-leg Clay in your new theater.

3.     Kimberly Caldwell                                                     Country Tonite

     Kimberly Caldwell sang in Branson before she was on the second season of American Idol and was a fellow finalist with Ruben Studdard, Clay Aiken, and Josh Gracin.  She was very young but a good talent at the time.  I mentioned to my wife that I thought she would go someplace eventually.  She was in the show "Country Tonite" at the old Ray Steven's Theater or the current RFD TV Theater.  She had a powerful voice and she was not affraid to show it off.  She was well received by the Branson audiences and we hated to see her leave.  But she is doing what she loves now and more power to her.  I love to see her on TV and would love to see her on a reunion performance with Country Tonite.  Hope to meet you again, Kim.  You are one of the best.

4.     Amanda                                                                      Magnificent Seven Show

     The first time I saw this young lady in a show was the Magnificent Seven Show.  That show was put together by the fantastic producer, Chaisi Childs.  Chaisi has the knack of finding the best talent around.  In the Magnificent 7 show, She put Dean Church, Darrell Croy (Now with the Top Ten Classic Music Revue at the Branson Mall), and Amanda as the vocalist.  I bellieve the young lady was 12 the first year I saw her.  A few years ago, Amanda wrote her own show and left the Magnificent Seven Show.  However the owner of the theater closed and locked the door of the theater after only one day.  Amanda was left holding the bag.  It was such a shame because several people left a show to appear in that theater,  now the Branson Star.  What I remember the most is her ability to sing with such ease.  She had a fantastic voice in the mid and low ranges.  The high range was her only average area.  Amanda could sing and she enjoyed the position of star very much.  I really liked her CD's and bought them all.  I know she graduated from Branson High School.  I do not know what she did after being locked out of the theater when she came on the second day of her run.  If anyone knows where she is, I would appreciate a heads up.  I did know her last name but it is gone from my memory now.

5.     Toby Gaines                                                               Lowe Sister's Show

     Toby Gaines was Branson's Little Miss Dynamite.  Toby sounds very much like Nashville's Little Miss Dynamite, Brenda Lee.  I always looked forward to see which Brenda Lee song she was going to tackle in the new season.  I think she was 11 when I saw and heard Toby for the first time.  She was the featured youthful vocalist of the Lowe Sister's Show.  I cannot express how much I enjoyed the Lowe Sister's show and Toby added much to my entertainment.  I haven't heard what has happened to Toby.  If anyone knows where she is and some recent news on what she is doing, I would appreciate a heads up.  I still play her tapes that I bought those years ago.  In fact, I am listening to one at this moment.  Hope everything is coming up roses for this little package of Dynamite. 

6.     Erica Busey                                                                The Texas Gold-Minors

     Erica was a very young teenager the first time I saw her at the Texas Gold-Minors show at the Ozark Jubilee Theater (The Current Starlite Theater).  She had a very nice voice, not a powerful one but the tone was good and pleasant.  She also clogged in the show with the other female entertainer, Kelly Jackson.  Kelly was Michael Jackson's sister.  Erica was a beautiful brunette and enjoyed every minute that she was on stage.  I have the tapes from the Texas Gold-minors and so I can listen to her whenever I want to.  I have no idea what has happened to Erica after she left the Texas Gold-minors.  If there is anyone out there that does, pass the information on to me and I will include it in my write up.  Erica is a fantastic person to talk with during intermission and after the show. 

7.     Matt Mobley                                                                Barbara Fairchild Show

     Matt was a little Elvis tribute artist.  He had a very good voice and was cute as a button.  He was at Barbara Fairchild Theater and singing in Barbara's show.  That theater is now the Starlite Theater.  I remember his Grandmother very well.  His little sister was named Molly.  I have a signed picture of him somewhere in my house.  He had a nice act, but I would have rather had him just sing as Matt and not as Elvis.  I saw him recently in the Mansion's production of Peter Pan.  He played one of the boys in Never Land.  Before that I saw him working at Clay Cooper's Theater selling tickets to their shows.   I always knew he would try and stay in the business.  He does have the talent to do just that.  Matt has turned into a fine young man.  I wish him the best.

Best Young Instrumental Entertainer

1.     Wyatt Baird, Keyboards, Vocalist                                              The Texas Gold-Minors

     Wyatt Baird is the young man that I have always referred to as Mr. Personality.  He could talk his way out of anything and make you think it was your idea.  What a talent this young man was when he was in Branson.  I always enjoyed his steel guitar and his voice.  He is now touring with the Country Music Legend, Kenny Chesney.  I hope to see him again.  It has been about 10 plus years since I have seen him.  Wouldn't it be fantastic if Clay Cooper hosted a Texas Goldminor Reunion in his new theater in 2010.  I would be the first to purchase a ticket.  Wyatt would be one of the performers that I would want to see first.  His voice was as good as his instrumental talent was.  Maybe one day we will be treated to the priviledge of seeing the Texas Gold-Middle Agers.

2.     Katherine Haygood                                                  The Haygoods, Cassandre'-The Voice of an Angel

     Katherine won the Best Young Female Entertainer in 2008 for www.BransonShowAwards.com  in the last year of eligibility for that category.  She is a tremendous talent instrumentally.  She can play the harp like an angel.  I am glad that the producer of the show has her play the harp on several occasions.  I really enjoy the show more with her at the harp.  She also is proficient at many other instruments as well.  I love it when she and her brothers play the saxophones together.  She also can play the violin and other string instuments.  She has a nice voice and I would like to hear more of her in the show.  She is such a beautiful girl so I would like to see her change gowns several times during the show.  I think the young men of the audience would appreciate that.  Her sister-in-law is Cassandre'.  Cassandre' is billed as the voice of an angel.  I think Katherine adds to that in Cassandre's show Katherine plays the harp like an angel.  Katherine is one of the top contestants for 2010 for the Best Instrumental Entertainer.  She might win it.  Katherine, you are one talented young lady.

3.     Aaron Haygood                                                         The Haygoods

     Aaron Haygood is the last of the Haygood brothers.  He is the youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. Haygood.  This young man was raised on the stage.  He really has been on stage since he was born.  He is now 16 and has won the last two Young Male Entertainer Awards for www.BransonShowAwards.com and he really deserved them.  I tried to count all of the instruments that he plays on stage this year.  However, I got side tracked and lost count.  I remember him playing the fiddle and  saxophone.  He has a good voice also.  He is a definite Young Entertainer and should be considered as such.  I really enjoy watching this young man entertain.  I am looking forward to 2010, which will be Aaron's last year to be in the Young Entertainer category.  I hope his brothers feature him more this next year. 

4.     Michael Jackson, Drummer                                      The Texas Gold-Minors

      Michael Jackson is one of the most dynamic personalities to perform in Branson.  He went by Michael J for awhile so he would not be teased or mistook for the other Michael Jackson.  Michael played drums for the Texas Gold-Minors and did some of the vocals also.  His sister Kelly was also in the show.  He could really play the drums.  I saw him as the drummer in another show or two, but for the life of me, I cannot remember the names of the shows.  Kelly and her husband opened a chicken place awhile back but the next year I came it was closed.  I know that Michael is playing drums for a National Star but the stars name evades me.  He sure can play those drums like a pro, because he is one.  I saw Michael and the rest of the cast of the Texas Gold-minors almost 25 years ago.  Hope to see you again Michael.  

5.     Nancy Hensen, Violinist, Vocalist                                            The Texas Gold-Minors, Ray Stevens Show

     Nancy Hensen was this absolutely gorgeous redhead that sang with the Texas Gold-Minors.  She had a voice like an angel and the violin skills of people double her age.  She is almost as good as today's Amy Dutton.  I loved all the freckles that she had.  She didn't like them.  I really enjoyed talking to her after the shows.  She seemed to be a sweet girl and she was very gracious with her fans and her audiences.  I do have one of her tapes but still haven't transferred them onto CD.  The last time I saw her she was playing in the band at Ray Steven's.  She also sang a couple of songs there also.  Since Janice Copeland was also in the show, she didn't have more than one or two.  Nancy, I would like to know what you are doing today.  I wish you the best.  I heard a rumor that you had gotten married. 

6.     John Presley, Piano                                                   Presley's Country Jubilee

     When I think of John Presley, I think of "Those Eyes".  John can look at an audience and control them.  His piano skills are very good.  John is the son of the Presley drummer, Steve Presley.  When he was away at college, I missed his piano talent.  Now that he is educated and married, we get to enjoy him all season long.  A few years ago, Paula Wilhite was let go from the cast and a young beautiful girl was hired to take her place.  Her name was Amber.  She has now married John and they are expecting and will become parents in 2010.  Amber has a beautiful voice.  I would love to see a duet by those two in the 2011 season.  I heard that Amber is taking the year off to have the baby and enjoy motherhood for awhile.  John needs to be featured a little more on the piano.  I love his version of "Last Date".  I wish Mr. and Mrs. John Presley and their new child all the best.  However, I would like to see Amber back as soon as she is through with the maternity leave.  John keep tickling those ivories, you do have a gift.

Best Quartet/Group

1.   The Wilhite Brothers                    

Lowe Sister's Show, The Old Starlite Theater, Silver Dollar City, Showboat Branson Belle, Grand Country Music Hall, Country Tonite

        The Wilhite Brothers are my favorite group in Branson.  I miss them terribly.  Jeff is no longer with us, passing away during the Christmas season of 2008.  Larry is General Manager of the Mansion/Oak Ridge Boys Theater complex.  I see him every once in awhile, but I am not able to enjoy his performing talents that I so enjoyed in the past.  His bother, Marty, is still performing and I get to hear him everytime I see the Country Tonite show, which is quite often, because that show is one of my favorite shows in Branson.  I remember when they owned or leased the old Starlite Theater next the Dollar Store across the street from the Toy Museum.  The brothers sang in the first half and then a National Star performed the second half.  I remember seeing Pat Boone, Ronnie Milsap, Cristy Lane and others.  In fact Cristy Lane and her husband bought the theater the next year and the Wilhites were gone.  Jeff went on to perform with Pierce Arrow.  Larry worked long hours with his ministry and Marty went to the Branson Belle the Table Rock Lake Dinner Paddle Wheel Ship.  I remember the western medley that they sang in their part of the show.  They also did a gospel medley and a 50's and 60's medley.  Marty has a voice that really made me enjoy the show all the more.  Now that Marty is playing bass, arranging musical numbers, and singing gospel numbers, I can still enjoy him so much.  He has remarried and his wife is as talented or even more talented than Marty's first wife.  To make my point, Kenya has won the Best Featured Female Vocalist two years 2008 and 2009 in the  www.BransonShowAwards.com.  She also is very easy on the eyes. I love to remember these young men and I always will.  I sure would like a copy of the family show that they performed out at Silver Dollar City in Echo Hollow Amphitheater.

2.   Branson Brothers                                                 Country Music World, Larry Foster's Country, Echo Hollow Amphitheater

      The group was the best when the members included Jimmy Ponder, Rick Baird, Kaufman, and Dan Britton.  They started out as the Tennessee Valley Boys and emerged as the Branson Brothers after they left Country Music World.  There have been many different members throughout the years, but I like the group the best when it included the four men listed.  I bought all their tapes every summer and eventually put them on CD.  I listen to them often and wish I could hear them one more time.  Each member of the group had solos throughout the concert which was nice.  I always felt I was at a rock concert because of all the young people standing and cheering and screaming.  Even my children did it.  They always collected their autographs every year. 

2.   Pierce Arrow                                                            Grand Country Music Hall, Pierce Arrow

     I am not sure, but I remember that Pierce Arrow started out as a trio at the Grand Country Music Hall and Jeff Wilhite and Dan Britton were founding members.  Then they added a fourth, I think Denny Franks.  When they left the Grand Country Music Hall and moved into their own theater, eventually they added a five and now a sixth member.  I can't class them as a quartet anymore so I don't include them in the awards as a quartet.  They have always been top notch.  Some of the members were also part of New South and the Branson Brothers.  It is hard to keep these guys straight in my mind, because they have been in and out of several groups.  Dan Britton is the main person now of the group.  However after an illness they hired Tim Storm to help with the duties of the grueling schedule of two shows a day, six days a week. 

3.   Ozark Mountain Boys                                                                 Lowe Sisters Show

        This group was the first quartet I saw in Branson.  I was just enamored with the talent and the quality of music that came from their vocal chords.  The group consisted of Mark McCauley, currently of New South, Mark Garner, currently selling cars in Hollister, and two others I do not remember their names.  The Lowe Sisters Show had three Marks in it, Mark McCauley and Mark Garner of the Ozark Mountain Boys and Mark Pearman, the Best Fiddle Artist in 2009 for www.BransonShowAwards.com.  The group also included Rick McEwen who I saw next door at the Caravelle theater when the Lowes sold the theater to Jim Stafford.  I was able to keep them separated in my mind, were You?  They had tremendous talent and demonstrated it all the time.  I still have their cassettes and enjoy them when I get a little melancholy and want to travel back in time to the days when my children were young and complete again.  They sang many of the Oak Ridge Boys and the Statler Brothers songs in their segment of the Lowe Sisters Show.

4.     New South                                                                                        Grand Country Jubilee

     New South is the Quartet that has sung at Grand Country Music Hall for several years.  They are the Best Quartet in town and they prove it every performance.  They have won the 2009 Best Quartet in Branson.  The quartet consists of Mark McCauley who was in the original Ozark Mountain Boys when they were at the Lowe Sisters Theater in the late 80's.  He has one of the best bass voices in the city.  Mark sang with other shows and continues to do a great job.  Trey Wilson was just a young teenage when he started singing with New South.  Trey has a tremendous voice and displays it every night.  He sings several gospel numbers throughout the years.  I feel Trey's voice is very suited for the 50's and 60's songs.  I would love to hear him sing "Dream Lover".  I think the group was formed when Pierce Arrow left the theater.  Jimmy Ponder was the tenor when the group was formed.  Scott Levin has been with the group for a few years and handles the tenor very well.  I always enjoy his solo parts during the show.  Jason Prittchet joined the group in 2008 after making it to the top 5 in America's Got Talent competition.  He really can sing and he is some eye candy for the ladies.  In fact, all of the boys can be classified in that category.  New South, you are a tremendous talent and you put a great show on every night.

5.     Pierce Arrow                                                                       Grand Country Jubilee, Pierce Arrow Theater

       Pierce Arrow was formed with three people, Jimmy Ponder, Jeff Wilhite, and someone I can not remember.  Jimmy was also the driving force for the Branson Brothers and ended up forming that group again later.  Jeff Wilhite was a member of the Noblemen and the Wilhite Brothers.  Jeff has gone to sing with the angels.  He passed away during the Christmas season of 2008.  I really miss that great voice that I enjoyed so much through the years.  The third person escapes my mind.  I have a feeling he was with Pierce Arrow when they moved into their new theater of Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.  When I saw Pierce Arrow a few years latet and Dan Brittan was in the group.  He is my guess as to who the third member was in the formation of the group.  Denny Franks, from Akron, was a long time member of the group, leaving only a couple of years ago.  The group now consists of Larry Farmer, Mr. Currier, and another young man that has a great voice and does a few duets with Mr. Currier that is extremely good.  In fact, I nominated the duet for duet performance of the year in 2009. There were two numbers that I could have nominated them for, one in the 3:00 PM and the one in the 7:30 PM show.  Dan Brittan was a functioning member of the group until he suffered a heart attack a few years ago.  He now sings very rarely with the group at this time.  The bass is now being sung by Tim Storm, a former member of the 50"s at the Hop show for many years.  If anybody can fill in the wholes of my memory, let me know.  Bobby Blackstone plays in the band and offers some comedy as well in this show and the Brett Family Singers Show.  I really love Pierce Arrow and they do have one of the best shows in town with the best comedian when Paul Harris is not in town.  I know Pierce Arrow will have a great show next year but this years show will be played at 3:00 PM and the new show at 7:30 PM.

Best Adult Instrumentalist

1.     Timothy Dutton                                                     The Duttons Show

    Timothy Dutton is the oldest son of Sheila and Dean Dutton.  He can play any instrument that is on the stage, as most of the cast can do.  However, Timothy is featured in the show as a tremendous instumental talent.  I have watched Timothy for over a decade and enjoy him every performance.  Since I can go to most shows in Branson, I am lucky to see him many times every year.  The entire cast seem to enjoy performing and, with Tim, it seems to be greater.  Tim has a nice voice and is able to show it off in most of the years that I have seen the Duttons perform.  I really enjoy Tim's interaction with his children in the show.  I think the best instrument that Tim plays is the violin or the fiddle.  He can do both.  There really is a difference in a fiddle and viollin.  It depends on the music that is played on it.  Timothy, you have a wonderful family and this town is better with you living here.  You and Judith are tremendous parents of talented children.  . 

Best Comedian

1.   Terry Sanders, as Homer Lee                                  Braschler Music Show, Grand Country Jubilee, Branson Brothers

     I watched Terry Sanders perform for twenty years.  You experienced Terry as soon as you pulled into the parking lot of the Braschler Music Show.  He played the part of Homer Lee extremely well.  He always came up with new characters every year or two.  His renditions of Cher and Joan Rivers were very enjoyable.  When he came on stage as Joan Rivers, I really thought it was the real Joan Rivers.  He actually makes a pretty woman.  Near the end of his stay with the Grand Country Jubilee and Branson Brothers, he talked about his boys.  I saw him play the city slicker at "Shepherd Of The Hills Outdoor Drama" and his son played the little boy.  Terry's family is just as nice as he is.  When I lost my father on Father's Day in 1991, Terry took my children and sat them down on the floor of the lobby the first time, after Dad's death, we came to the show.  He read them a story about how a deceased person can always be remembered.  Terry has told me that the name of the book is "I Will Always Love You".  My children love Terry Sanders and always will.  Benton, my learning disabled son, calls Terry his best friend.  I wish Terry all of the success that he has had and will continue to have.  I cannot think of anyone that deserves rewards more than Terry.  I wish someone would have Terry Sanders return, because he is one of the best comedians in the world.  He was on Hew-Haw for one year.  I enjoyed those segments as well. 

2.    Paul Harris                                                           The Texas Gold-Minors, Pierce Arrow, Paul Harris Show

     Paul is definitely the best comedian in the Branson area, with the possible exception of Terry Sanders.  Paul uses the news of the day to bring comedy to his show.  When we were in the President Clinton years, he always made fun of him.  Since I was a Clinton fan, I didn't laugh at everything.  But I still thought what he said was indeed funny.  However when Bust took the office, Pauls comedy still included stories of Bush and his ways.  He could take a story and just by the way he told it, it is one of the best stories you will ever hear.  The audiences laugh so hard that it is possible to leave with painful sides.  Now in the shows that he recently put on in Branson, he has teemed up with Matt Gumm.  Matt magnifies Paul's talent to make him even funnier.  I still see Paul at the Pierce Arrow theater and the audience doubled over in laughter.  Pierce Arrow found a very talented replacement when he went to Nashville.  Jarrett Dougherty was with Barbara Fairchild and took Paul's place at Pierce Arrow.  He is back now to continue entertaining Branson audiences today.

3.     Phil Baker, as Willie Makeit                                                               Campbell's Ozark Country Jubilee

     Willie was the first comic I ever saw in Branson.  He had a great act and I listen to the tapes quite frequently.  He had a flair for telling stories and acting funny.  I still remember my oldest son, Benton, getting excited every time we went to see that show.  With Dr. David Strubble, the Campbell's Ozark Jubilee Band, Carlotta Gail, Willie Makeit and little Missy Crider that was a good show.  I wish I would have bought a VHS tape of the show.  Missy Crider went to Nashville and got married and I see her in TV shows very often.  The last time I saw her, she was in "Medium" on the NBC network.  I saw Willie in a show a few years ago but can't remember which one.  What made Willie a great entertainer was the fact that he could impersonate almost anybody with his singing.  He had a great voice.  The star that I remember the most is Willie Nelson.  He had Willie down to a fine act.  I don't remember his real name.

3.   Gary Presley, as Herkimer                                        Presley's Country Jubilee

     It has been 25 years after seeing Gary Presley for the first time.  He was a great comedian and still is today.  He takes some news of today and turns it into one-liner jokes.  I see this show every year and Herkimer changes his act every year.  Some of the comedy is repeated but the audience still enjoys the act.  He knows how to hold an audience and he knows how to deliver a joke in the best way.  I like his sequined overalls.  He added that a few years ago.  He actually seems to be getting better.  His son, Eric, plays Herkimer's son, Cecil.  They seem to feed each other lines that is extremely comical.  Cecil might end up being better than his father.  That is an extremely powerful compliment to Gary and Eric because Gary is one of the best.

4.   Jim Mabe, as Droopy Drawers                                  Baldknobbers Hillbilly Jamboree

     There is no comedian, except Terry Sanders, that my children enjoyed more than Droopy Drawers.  Every year we would call Branson in the spring and purchase tickets on the left side of the stage, front row.  Why?  Well Droopy Drawers always stood on the left side.  He could make a vampire smile in delight at the movements and comedy routine that he performed every year.  I was so sad to see him leave this world.  I knew that I would never be able to enjoy him again.  My children were the most upset.  He was their comedic hero along with Terry Sanders.  Jim knew how to strike your funny bone every performance.  His son, Tim, still carries on in a family tradition of their own.  Tim is just as funny in some ways as his Dad, but I still miss Jim.  When I talked to Tim in the spring of 2009, I told him of my memories and he was very appreciative of my stories.  What a guy, comic, father, and person Jim Mabe was, a true treasure.

Best Specialty Act

1.   Patty Davidson, Ventriloquist                                  Jamin' Thomas at Roy Clark's, Dalena Ditto

     I saw this act many different times when I went to see a celebrity at Roy Clark's Theater.  My children were enthralled by this act.  She has a nice singing voice as well.  The characters were well thought out and she still uses some of them at the Dalena Ditto show.  We got to see her many times because she was the first half of all the shows at the Roy Clark's Celebrity Theater.  "Lucy" is my favorite character when she reacts to Dan.  I love the little arguments they got into during Patty's segment of the show.  She sings every once in awhile and I reallly enjoy her from the top to the bottom of her act.  She still has it and I am glad that I can relive these nice memories at the Oak Ridge Boys Theater when I want to go again.

1.     Jim Barber                                                            Hamner Barber Theater

     Jim's act is so different from any other ventriloquist that I have ever seen.  He is truly a treasure that Branson gets to enjoy every year.  I don't know how anyone can stand that long with his back arched.  I really enjoy both of these ventriloquist and I couldn't choose between the Patty Davidson of the past and Jim Barber of today.  I have noticed that Jim tries to change his act every year.  I like his rendition of Austin Powers and it gives the act an updated view also.  He actually sings well also.  That makes his act several facetted and makes it very good.  He has won the award for Best Specialty Act for 2008 and 2009 from the www.BransonShowAwards.com.  I nominated him and the committee then voted for Jim over Patty.  I wasn't going to get into that decision because I like them both and don't want to make that decision.  That is ok, call me chicken, if you want to.

Best Band

1.    Campbell's Ozark Jubilee Band                             Campbell's Ozark Jubilee

      This show had a great band.  George Giddons was the fiddler, and he was excellent.  He won several awards for his fiddle every year.  The person who reminds me of him now, is Wayne Massengale.  George always wore a hat out of the forties.  Gary Meyer was the lead guitarist and he now plays for Mickey Gilley.  He has been with Gilley for over a decade.  Tracy Heston was the keyboard player and was superb then also.  I liked his toilet flushing sound that he was able to play.  He had all types of sounds.  That was really different 25 years ago.  Buddy Burr was the drummer and nobody was better than Buddy.  He was with 50's At The Hop and I recently saw him at the Imax in New's Country.  I don't remember the other members, but they were good.  Maybe someone out there can fill me in as to the other members.  I remember Danny Yancey and Gene Mulvaney, but they might have been with the Lowe's or the 76 Music Hall.                                  

2.     50's At The Hop Band                                            50's At The Hop

     This band was the best band after Campbell's Ozark Jubilee closed their show.  It consisted of Marvin Short on the Sax.  He has won the best sax every year that I have given awards.  Before that time, everyone would have to agree he was the best.  Aaron Haygood might give him some competition in future years.  I don't know when Darrell Croy entered the band, but the last several years he has put on quite a show.  Both Marvin Short and Darrell Croy left to form their own show with a fantastic new cast in Top Ten Classic Music Revue.  I know Buddy Burr was with them for awhile and he was a former member of the Ozark Jubilee Band.  If someone can fill in the blanks, let me know by email.  I just remember that this band was tremendous every time I saw it.  I saw it at least 5 times a year and enjoyed every one of them.  At the time, no band could touch it.  The band is still good and enjoyable.

Best Lead Guitarist

1.   Stacey Gravatt                                                           Echo Hollow Amphitheater, 76 Music Hall

      Stacey passed away much too soon.  I was mortified when I learned of his death.  Since I only lived hear June, July and most of August, I heard from my mother about his death.  He added so much to the stage and show.  He had a captivating smile that drew you in to the show.  His energy and happiness was very contagious.  He added so much to the shows at Silver Dollar City in the Echo Hollow Amphitheater.  The Branson Brothers were the main draw at that time.  They had recently released a Warner Brothers album and they were getting people from all over the Midwest to see them perform.  I miss that show.  Jimmy Ponder, Rick Baird, Terry Kaufman, and Dan Britton were the members of the Branson Brothers at that time.  Stacey had a good voice as well as the skill to play the guitar.  His ability was top notch every single time he played.  He passed away in late September of 1997.

2.   Gary Meyer                                                              Campbell's Ozark Jubilee, Mickey Gilley

     This man was in the award winning band of the late 80's from Campbell's Ozark Jubilee Band.  After his stint with them, Buddy Burr and he moved to Mickey Gilley.  I think I remember them touring with Mickey.  Gary is still with Mickey and I always look forward to seeing him with Mickey during the season. Gary can play anything extremely well on that ole electric guitar.  If I had presented awards 24 years ago, Gary and Stacy would have won for lead guitarist.  He always played with a huge smile and those eyes a sparklin'.  Gary was especially good when Carlotta Gayle was on the stage.  She was a powerful Loretta Lynn type artist that made me smile.  One of the things I remember most about Gary is his desire to play well each and every time.  He also liked the meals that my family made for the cast every year in the last week of our staying in Branson.  He works on sound at other shows in his spare time.  I really think he has turned into a great MC at the Mickey Gilley Show.

Best Bass Guitarist

1.   Randy Plummer                                                       The Plummer Family, Bacon Family, New's Country

      Randy has been around for a long time.  His family owned their own theater, Americana Theater, where the Haygoods will open in 2009.  I still can see him playing bass during the show.  I think he played other instruments as well but I am not sure.  His voice was always very good, especially on a gospel song.  I still enjoy him when I see him at his two shows in which he is currently playing.  His mother, Rosy Plummer, used to come out in floor length dresses and sit at the piano and play the fire out of it while singing.  She had a nice voice also.  But the entire family were diamonds in a group of stones.  They were top notch and I hated to see the family leave, but thank God, Randy stayed so we could still enjoy his talents here in Branson.  You can see him at the Grand Country Mall in the Max Bacon Family Shows on Sunday and the James Garrett shows "Strait Country" and "Rocky Mountain High" at the Imax theater in 2010.  I have now become very good friends with Randy and I will keep you informed as to his escapades. He is a great singer.  Sing "On My Father's Side" for me Randy.

Best Saxophone Artist

1.   Marvin Short                                                                50's At The Hop, Top Ten Classic Music Revue

     Marvin was 50's At The Hop.  I was very surprised to not see him at this years 50's show.  I hear rumors that he and a few others are going to open a show in the spring of 2009.  I hope he does, I would miss him desperately.  I have never heard or seen someone of the caliber of talent on the sax.  His voice is also very good.  But his hair.  That wave that is at least a dozen inches high is what you remember the most.  When you see him around town, it is hard to recognize him.  By the way, the hair is his "real" hair with much hair spray.  I really enjoyed the young man for at least 15 years with the 50's.  The 50's s At The Hop show is still great, but they are missing Marvin.  Well nothing ever stays the same, does it.

2.     Jimmy Raschel                                                                     Rock N Roll Is Here To Say

     Jimmy Raschel is a phenominal entertainer.  He can play the sax better than anybody else in Branson with the possible exception of Marvin Short.  His ability to play two saxophones at a time is one of the reasons he is so good.  I can enjoy his every couple of weeks in his show at the Branson Star Theater.  That show is totally ignored by the masses.  It is really ashame that it is because I would rank it in the top 10 shows of Branson.  I will always recommend that show as one of the great ones.  Jimmy is featured alot during the show and you will enjoy every one of them.  The band is very good and he helps the others make it so. He can play quite a few instruments and manages to do that a few times.  If anybody knows of some other shows that Jimmy was in, let me know.  I know I have seen him before but can't remember what they were.  Keep playing that sax, Jimmy.  You are very good.

Best Drummer

1.   Buddy Burr                                                              Campbell's Ozark Jubilee, Mickey Gilley, 50's At The Hop, New's Country

     Buddy could and can wail on those drums.  He can keep the beat to anything that the band director decides to throw at him.  He was also part of the Best Band in the late 80's and early 90's.  If I close my eyes and dream, I can still see him behind the glass playing away.  Buddy is as nice as he is talented.  He remembers me every time I see him at a different show.  He hasn't changed much, maybe a little grayer, but aren't we all.  He always played with all his might in a show and gave his best.  He has a nice voice also.  I hope he will never quit and be here another 25 years, at least.

2.   Steve Presley                                                              Presley's Country Jubilee

     Steve is Mr. Smile of the Presley Show.  For the last 25 years, I have watched this man turn from a very young man to a mature, handsome man.  His daughter and son are in the show and when they perform Steve has a smile on his face that stretches from one side to the other.  But his talent with the drums is what I notice the most.  He always has a drum solo and I really look forward to the solo and cheer very loudly.  It is hard to evaluate a drummer.  I listen to the beat and evaluate what they do to keep that beat.  Steve is, by far, one of the best drummers in Branson every year.  I am looking forward to seeing the new Presley show that they will be performing at their theater in 2010.

Best Pianist

1.   Teresa Lowe                                                           Lowe Sisters Show

     This young lady really added a lot to the Sister Act.  She would rather sit on the piano stool during the performances but she did have to get up every once in a while and perform with her other three sisters in a female version of the Statler Brothers.  They were that good.  I probably saw this show the most in the late 80's, I liked it that much.  My children also liked it.  We went, at least, twice a week.  In fact, we even helped with the ushering when they had a few employees not show up.  My son, Timothy, loved to take the people to their seats.  When we came, he would just start to be an usher and the girls just chuckled.  He was only 5 to 9 in those years.  I haven't seen Teresa in such a long time, I miss her.  I think we became good friends, I hope so.  I really loved that family. 

2.     Darrell Croy                                Jamin Thomas Show, Magnificent 7 Show, 50's At the Hop, Top Ten Classic Music Revue

     I remember Darrell Croy from the beginning of my coming to Branson.  He was in a show that performed before one of the National Stars performed at the Roy Clark's and Mickey Gilley's theater that was originally owned by Jim Thomas.  He was as good as he is now.  But Darrell has perfected the tribute of Jerry Lee Lewis to be almost spectacular in enjoyment for the audience.  He was one of the entertainers that Chaisi Childs chose to be in the Magnificent Seven show that she was putting together for the White House Theater.  They originally opened the show at a theater in the grounds of what is now Celebration City.  He really was able to please the audiences

Best Keyboardist

1.     Tracy Heston                                                                           Campbell's Ozark Country Jubilee, Grand Country Jubilee, Down Home Country

     If you look in the dictionary under Keyboard you will see a picture of Tracy Heaston.  He was the first young man that I can remember that played a keyboard that had various sounds that were not normally heard from a piano.  I remember it vividly.  My children loved the toilet flushing sound.  I can still remember Benton and Timmy giggling when he played that key.  He is still one fantastic keyboardist in the area.  In fact, he was nominated for the award for Best Keyboardist of 2009.  He also has the ability to play with the best of them.  I really enjoy it when he plays songs such as "Last Date" and other Baby Boomer songs.  Tracy you are one of the best and I am looking forward to hearing you again next season.  I know you will continue to give a stellar performance in every way. 

Best Fiddler

1.   George Giddons                                                     Campbell's Ozark Country Jubilee

     George always wore a hat, a white fedora.  He really could make that fiddle sing.  I really enjoyed the entire band, but George was always in top form.  This band won the Best Band Award many years in a row when the whole gang was there.  They deserved every one of them.  I haven't heard about George for many years.  I know he is playing somewhere to thunderous crowds.  He was that good and memorable.  The entire band performed on the front of the stage exchanging instruments and the quality never varied.  George had a very good voice, but didn't use it that often.  The more I write about these memories the more I wish I had a time machine.  He reminds me of Wayne Massengale, the George Giddons of today.  Wayne is at Grand Country Music Hall.

2.   Mark Pearman                                                         Lowe Sisters, Ricky Boen And Texas Mud

     This man can attack a fiddle like no one else.  He truly is a gifted fiddler.  He can also play the violin.  The instruments are the same but the music that comes out of them is different.  He has an award list as long as both of my arms, and his playing demonstrates it in every show he is in.  He and his beautiful wife own the Branson Craft Mall on Hwy 165 just south of Green Mountain Drive.  I always enjoyed his antics while he was on stage, which was most of the show.  George and Mark were so close in talent and ability that I can't make my mind up who is better, so I have listed both of them as number 1, the best, of my memory.  I talked with Mark at the beginning of this season, he is doing well and plays in the Ricky Boen and Texas Mud at Hamner Barber.  Aren't they lucky to have such a great talent.

Best Violinist

1.     Amy Dutton                                                                              The Duttons Show

    If you want to see the best violinist in the city of Branson, then buy a ticket to the Duttons Show and there you will see Amy and probably at least two more in the top ten.  Amy has won the Best Violinist award for two straight years fromwww.BransonShowAwards.com.  She can play with the best of the Violinist in the world because she is one of the best.  I have never seen such skill and talent from one young lady as I have from this young Mother of three boys.  The Duttons give Amy a chance to perform a couple of classical and semi-classical numbers which makes chills run up and down my back.  She enters the stage with elegantly draped curtains and dressed in a beautiful gown.  This sets the stage for a breath taking scene with Amy playing a fantastic classical piece.  Then in another instant, she changes clothes and picks up her viollin and it becomes a fiddle.  She could be the best fiddler in Branson also.  The only other real competition for the violin is Timothy Haygood.  He plays it with equal skill but the pretty dress is not there.  In 2009 they tied for the Best Violinist Award. 

2.    Timothy Haygood                                                                                     The Haygoods

     Timothy Haygood has been playing the violin/fiddle for about 20 years or more. His brothers picked up the task as they got older and evenKatherine picked up the fiddle and they all play it well, but Timothy is the best.  They have played together for all of their lives.  Tim has grown with his talent and he does play the violin in at least one number in the show.  But his fiddle numbers are truly fantastic.  Tim has a great voice and I love to hear him sing during the shows.  He was not in the shows for a little while but he came back this year with a vengence.  He truly is a remarkable young man.  It is my understanding that Tim and his lovely and talented wife bought the Americana Theater and have transposed the theater into the New American Theater with a lovely lobby and the best concession stand in the city.  I don't know if all of this is Tim's accomplishment or not.  I believe that the whole family has had a part in the transformation.  I consider Tim a friend of mine and I enjoy seeing the Haygoods several times a year.   

3.     Dean Church                                               Braschler's Family Show, Magnificent 7 Show, Andy Williams The Entertainers

     Dean Church is a true entertainer.  I have seen him perform in several shows for the last 25 years.  I first saw him in the Braschler Family Show.  He really was good and remains to this day a true talent. Chaisi Child's picked Dean to be among the seven of the Magnificent Seven.  Most people do not know that the Magnificent Seven means seven talented people in the cast.  Latter it meant the start time of the Show, 7 PM.  Now they have dropped the Seven in the show and it doesn't mean anything anymmore becasue the title of the show is just Magnificent Variety Show.  Dean would make the audience come to a frenzy with applause and yelling. I later saw Dean at Andy Williams Entertainers a summer or two ago.  I don't know where he is now and hope to find out from someone that knows.  Dean is a wonderful entertainer and I miss seeing him again. 

4.     Shoji Tabuchi                                                            Starlite Theater, Country Music World, Shoji Tabuchi Theater

    The producer extraordinare, Chaisi Childs, brought Shoji to Branson.  I feel Shoji owes his career to Chaisi.  I first saw him at the old Starlite Theater, which is the current Bart Rocket theater, now vacant.  He then moved to Country Music World, Mickey Gilley Theater, and performed with the Branson Brothers.  Then he moved into the Ozark Automobile Museum, the current Branson Star Theater.  He is a wonderful violinist, but his success is made from the producing success of Mr. and Mrs. Tabuchi.  I enjoy his music every time I hear it.  He is one, talented, entertainer.  He does have a sense of humor that is delightful.  That old Ozark Automobile Museum has been the Shoji Tabuchi Theater, The Loretta Lynn Theater, and the Mel Tillis Theater.  Many stars have performed inside those walls.

Best Magician

1.     Kirby VanBurch

     I am sure if you look in the Encyclopedia under Magician you would see a picture of Kirby Van Burch.  Kirby is a fantastic entertainer.  He is an excellent comedian without even trying.  He has a flair for one-liner comedy that keeps his audience laughing and enjoying.  His illussions are very entertaining and jaw dropping.  I always enjoy going to his theater to see a show.  He is always very grateful to his fans and enjoys talking with them in the gift shop after every performance.  I consider Kirby a good friend and will recomend his show to anyone, especially people with children.  My favorite illussion is at the end of the show when he talks about living with his Grandmother in Texas during the summers and listening to stories told to him by his Grandmother.   Kirby strives every year to improve on his show and he is successful most of the time.  I have never seen a mediocre show given by Kirby.  His addition of the Cat Tour is one of the neatest things that Kirby does.  He strives for greatness and achieves it.

2.     Dave Hamner

     When Dave Hamner came to town with his magic act that contains birds, he was well received.  He and his wife are able to hold the audience with some brilliant magic tricks.  His birds are extrememly beautiful and adds tremendous enjoyment to his audiences.  When I look at the faces of the audience, I see happy faces with open mouths.  Together with Jim Barber, Dave Hamner has a great show that is well worth seeing.  I wish them the best and hope that they have continued success.  I only wish that there was a way to see the birds upclose as Kirby does with his cats.  Dave is a good magician and puts on a great show.  You really can see Kirby Van Burch and Dave Hamner the same year because you will see different acts in both shows.  What makes Dave Hamner different is the fact that he uses birds, beautiful birds, in his show.  He has the birds fly over the audience during several of the illusions.  I don't know how he hides those birds, live birds, when performing the tricks.  Kirby uses animals so his show is different.  Keep up the good work Dave.

3.     Bart Rocket                                         Bart Rocket Theater, 50's at the Hop Theater

     Bart Rocket is a gifte magician, but Branson has so many talented magicians such as, Kirby Van Burch and Dave Hamner, that it would be hard to have success in this city.  No one would want to see 2 magicians on one trip while a music show can be seen every show.  Bart and Taylor Reed had a good thing going earlier this season but the fact that Branson was in a slump and it hurt several shows this year.  Bart handles an audience with much skill.  I think his layoff after his assault in Las Vegas.  I am very glad that he was able to try and come back, however, he became a victim of the economy.  I hope he ends up landing on his feet.  He is a nice guy and I always hate to see someone be unsuccessfu.  Bart had several illusions that Kirby or Dave performed.   

4.     Mike Bliss & The Incredible Bliss Brothers (MichaelBliss)                                                                                            

        The Brett Family Singers, Magnificent Seven Variety, The Rankin Brothers, Joey Riley Show

     Today Michael is known as Mike Bliss and the Incredible Bliss Brothers.  Michael Bliss is a trememdous entertainer.  He can do so much.  He has a very good voice, can dance brilliantly, perform magic illusions, Juggle with the best, ride a unicycle while juggling and much more.  He is training his kids to perform and they are getting quite good.  The Bliss Brothers can perfom illusions and juggle almost as well as Dad.  The act that they do together in The Brett Family Singers show is very good.  It is amazing what those two boys can do with their father.  Mike can juggle while he is riding his unicycle and sing at the same time.  His ability to do that really blows my mind.  His comedy routine is good and he is coming up with some new tricks, which is good because some people come to the same shows year after year.  He comes out in front of the curtain, he does a fine job of warming up the audience.  I love it when he takes someone's watch of the one audience member's wrist without him even noticeing it.  As the boys grow older, the families performance becomes more complex.  This year he has all five children performing.  I can see a future show being made by this talented family.

All Shows are reviewed by Gary R. Wackerly of www.BransonShowAwards.com.  All nominations and commentaries are decided and awarded by Gary R. Wackerly.  The final decision on the nominated winners will be decided by a seven member committee chaired by Gary R. Wackerly.  www.BransonShowAwards.com has no affiliation with any show, company, City of Branson, or any Chamber of Commerce.   If you want to email me you can use BransonShowAwards@gmail.com