By: Michael Bragg (Photo Gallery & Review) of MJBragg Photography
Newberry, SC (March 13th, 2019) – The town of Newberry, SC is typically a quiet little southern historic town but on this Wednesday evening it has been filled with the hustle and bustle of some eager fans. Taking the stage tonight at the Newberry Opera House are the legendary Oak Ridge Boys. This multi-award winning group has brought their current “Shine The Light” tour to town continuing what is now their 21st consecutive year at this venue.
As 8pm neared the sold out crowd entered the opera house taking their seats for what would be the groups second performance of the day. After a brief introduction by tour manager Darrick Kinslow, who provided some back history of the group that originally formed in the 1940’s, the “Boys” took to the stage.
With a career that has spanned nearly 46yrs for the current and most recognizable lineup the 4 piece began their set of classic gospel and country hits.
Opening with a three song run of “Come on In,” “American Made,” and “No Matter How High” the group drew the crowd in with their distinguished 4 part vocal harmonies. Joe Bonsall then taking a moment to interact with the crowd thanking everyone for coming out to the show and making some jokes. Asking who was seeing the group for the first time their was a surprising response with nearly a 3rd of the crowd raising their hands.
Continuing the show with other notable songs such as “You’re The One” and the very crowd interactive tune, “Y’all Come Back Saloon” the quartet entertained the audience with an animated presence.
Mid set Joe introduced backing musicians The Mighty Oaks Band consisting of Ronnie Fairchild (keys), Scotty Simpson (bass), Austin (drums), Roger Ethan (guitar), Jeffery Douglas (guitar) and Rex Wiseman (pedal Steel).
Relieving Duane Allen of lead vocals for a moment the quartet mixed it up a little as Joe took over lead vocals for “I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes” and later again on “Pray To Jesus” from the groups latest album release “17th Avenue Revival.”
William Lee Golden followed singing lead on “Thank God For Kids.”
The standout moment of the night was the acapella performance of “Amazing Grace” that was preceded by a story of standing by your word and keeping promises. Explaining how the group had made a prior statement to President George H. Bush that they would sing at his funeral they told of the phone call they received of his declining health. Joe told of the hectic travel issues for the day of services as the group was on tour in Washington state and had to fly to Texas then back for a show that night. He stated you do what it takes to keep your word.
It was a deep heart felt moment of what was described as one of the most honorable events of the groups career that was followed by a standing ovation from those in attendance.
Closing out the night with their 1981 crossover hit “Elvira,” featuring the booming bass vocals of Richard Sterban, the crowd rose to their feet cheering and singing along as the “Boys” went into the 1982 hit “Bobbie Sue” for the last song of the night.
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Copyright – Michael Bragg/MJBragg Photography
