Freddy Powers turned 70 last Wednesday; at least that's when his surprise birthday roast was held in Austin. His songwriting is as well known as his jazz guitar, and Merle Haggard is real glad he's known Freddy all these years. Not only has Freddy written hits for Merle, he has also played guitar on the road for years with Merle. On Saturday, October 27, Merle Haggard plays the Fairgrounds in Fredericksburg, a rare treat for the Hill Country.

I still remember that Sunday afternoon in September (1996) when 200 of us heard him play an hour-long set in honor of Jimmie Rodgers in a small club in Kerrville. After talking to him several times about the effect of Jimmie on his music, I have also developed a huge appreciation for the music of Merle Haggard.

Roger Moon is the opening band on October 27, and Roger is also celebrating the release of his first CD, "Everybody Loves a Rambler." Ah, don't we, though! I first heard Roger on a Wednesday afternoon around the spreading oak in Luckenbach. At John Krause's invitation, I went there to here Roger and B.B. Morse. I was blown away then by a song called. "An Old Haggard Song." Seems that Mike and Kathy Schroeder were also impressed with Roger and decided to help him get his music out.

Roger explained in a phone interview last week, "I met people who wanted to help if I'd change my name or fix something. When I met Mike and Kathy, I was invited to just be me and get the music out. Freddy Powers was so supportive of me. He felt that anyone still trying to work with this sound should be supported."

The new CD contains a Johnny Rodriquez classic, "Ridin' My Thumb to Mexico," "Muleskinner Blues," "Little Hotel Room" by Freddy Powers, and several more originals by Roger. The singing fiddles Bart Trotter and Ron Knuth are both on this CD. Phil Farhardo and B.B Morse round out the team. Recorded in Arlyn Studio in Austin, the CD was produced by Roger and is ready for airplay. I'm sure KFAN (107.9/103.1 F.M.) will be showcasing the music on a regular basis.

After our PIP workshop at Schreiner University, after the Kerrville Book Festival being produced by Tony Galluci, I'll jump on my steed and head to Fredericksburg to hear some "real" country music. Merle has never disappointed me, and I'm anticipating a great show by our own Roger Moon!

Speaking of that part of the Hill Country, and I have several times lately, Johnny Nicholas is preparing his annual Texas Big Band Bash on November 13 at the Fredericksburg High School Auditorium. Get your tickets early for this show. Marcia Ball is returning. We'll hear blues, rock and jazz, a real evening of Texas music. The Cowboy Store, Wolfmueller's and me (at Schreiner University) will have tickets for sale.

Following that Tuesday evening show, settle down on Saturday night, November 17, at the Hill Country Sculpture Garden on Bear Creek Road for an evening "house" concert with Rudi Harst. Bring food and $10 for the musicians and enjoy another type of venue for Texas music. Call Willie McDaniel for tickets and information.

I'll be heading to San Miguel de Allende for the Thanksgiving holiday. Not because it's Thanksgiving but because it's a holiday. And I'll hear some great music there in my home away from home. Yep, I still love Mexico, and she calls out to me on a regular basis.

Free Leonard and down the road.

Kathleen
kat@maverickbbs.com

www.texasheritagemusic.org

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