After rousing tribute concerts to Stevie Wonder and the history of hip hop, Encore Live tips their hat to the heritage of American country. The city’s finest musicians team up to cover 42 country classics from Johnny Cash to the dearly departed Merle Haggard. Musical director Paul Meredith gives us a preview.
Encore Live has previously done tributes to hip hop and Stevie Wonder. Why a tribute concert to country?
Music is a diverse art form, and we want to give a rare glimpse of American country music to Chinese audiences. It will be a positive and memorable experience!
Country has a long history - what type of songs/artists will be included?
Our show will feature all the stars of country's history you might expect: Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, the Dixie Chicks, Toby Keith, and so many others - no one will be disappointed!
Is there a narrative you are trying to tell with this concert?
We start with the roots of country through music and dance, and show through time the great changes the music has undergone, as historical events changed as well. A great example is the crossover country/pop song by Elvis ('That's Alright Mama'), which honored a tradition but pointed in an exciting new musical direction as well.
Encore Live shows have previously been known for its production values and costuming. What can people expect visually from this concert?
Our show has not just music but plenty of comedic, dance, and singalong chances for audience participation. All will be invited to dance and learn some new steps! The Encore Live staff have created an amazing set that will bring the audience right into the Country Roadhouse.
Who are some of the singers and musicians involved in this concert and is country something that they typically perform?
Our drummer Yan hasn't played much country before, but is very excited about this show because his dad loves this music! This story is repeated by many players. We feature a great singer from Japan, Yuko Kishi, who tells us that in Japan, these songs are widely known. We have brought in the Hutong Yellow Weasels, to feature in our old time and square dance set, and yet the diversity of these country songs has made an impression on them as well. Denise Mininfield, a R&B singer tells us that she also grew up with so many of these songs all around her, and finally she gets to honor them with her heartfelt performance. On a special note, our Harriette Saide is actually a genuine country girl from Tennessee - yet in Shanghai she rarely gets to cut loose on these songs. We all are excited!
What do you say to people who say they like “all kinds of music except country”?
Country music has grit, toughness and honesty. It is true to life, or else it won't fly. And, many of our selected songs are just plain fun! Give it a chance, and it won't disappoint.
There’s been a long history in country of really interesting cover songs. For this concert, are you remaining faithful to the original versions or are you adding some extra touches?
We are remaining true to the meaning and spirit of each song, yet at the same time, our singers are very experienced performers. They will bring their own personality to each song, giving them richness and depth - and trust me, they can deliver a tune!
There’s a long tradition of dance in country. Will this be part of the show at all?
Oh yeah! The Hutong Yellow Weasels, featuring Chris Hawke and Kirk Kenny will start the show with a square dance, and there are plenty of dance numbers throughout. Chris calls dances in Chinese and English, and all the dance tunes are infectious - it'll be hard for the audience to remain seated. There will be a large dance space near the stage, and Chris will be encouraging audience members to stomp it up! And, Lulu Ye, a great local dance and singing talent, has choreographed several cool dance numbers - gonna be great!
You Encore Live cats are always so busy. What are you up to after this concert?
Follow up to be announced! Get ready!
Is there anything you would like to add?
There will be too many highlights to count, some funny, others deeply emotional. Country music - its diverse roots bringing together such divergent strains of American society and history - and it's power to speak to the heart with truth and strong emotion, is something that Americans can be deeply proud of. Encore Live is so glad to bring this music to a big stage!
May 18-19, 7.30-9.30pm, RMB80-280. The Mixing Room, tickets.
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