The Chevrolet Performance HOT ROD Power Tour 2026 is the 32nd annual edition of the world's largest rolling car festival, scheduled for June 8-12, 2026. This year's milestone five-day journey specifically celebrates the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66, guiding a massive convoy of over 6,000 classic cars, hot rods, and muscle machines down "The Mother Road" from Illinois to Oklahoma.

The Chevrolet Performance HOT ROD Power Tour 2026 is making a Route 66 pit stop in Rolla on June 11, bringing thousands of classic cars and enthusiasts through town during this once-in-a-century celebration of the Mother Road. For the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the legendary road trip is going bigger than ever, adding brand-new HOT ROD Pit Stops in the heart of Missouri, including right here in Rolla! Find out more HERE

Annie turns 50 this year, but everyone’s favorite little orphan doesn’t look a day over 10! The beloved musical, featuring timeless songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” follows the fearless Annie on her journey from a rundown New York City orphanage to the opulent estate of billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Full of laughter, hope, and memorable tunes, Annie has captured the hearts of audiences for five decades. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the celebration when Annie, her beloved dog Sandy, and a stellar cast of singers and dancers light up the Lyceum stage, June 5 - June 14, 2026. More information HERE

Fruit Bats founder Eric D. Johnson has said the band's name began as a joke—a quirky, made-up punk-rock moniker he put on an early demo tape. What started as a throwaway name stuck, eventually becoming the banner for one of indie folk's most enduring and beloved acts.

Fruit Bats is an American indie folk-rock band founded in Chicago in 1997 by singer-songwriter Eric D. Johnson. Blending warm melodies, vivid storytelling, and roots-inspired instrumentation, the band has become a beloved presence in the indie music world. Although Fruit Bats has featured a rotating lineup over the years, Johnson remains its creative force, crafting critically acclaimed albums that balance folk, rock, and Americana influences. Known for songs such as “When U Love Somebody” and albums including Mouthfuls, The Ruminant Band, and Gold Past Life, Fruit Bats continues to captivate audiences with its heartfelt, melodic sound. Listen to their music HERE

“Weird Al” Yankovic is an American musician, comedian, and satirist best known for his humorous parody songs and pop-culture spoofs. Since rising to fame in the 1980s, he has transformed hits by artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Nirvana into comedic classics while also creating original songs and comedy sketches. A multiple-Grammy Awards winner, Yankovic has sold millions of albums and remains one of the most successful comedy recording artists in history, celebrated for his clever lyrics, accordion-driven sound, and family-friendly humor. Listen to his White & Nerdy!

FUNNY VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

This section is dedicated to lesser known artists that you might not have heard of and some that you have. We’ll also revisit from time to time, some classic albums that are worth rediscovering!

Formed in 2013 in the small mountain town of Castlewood, Virginia, 49 Winchester has become one of the most exciting success stories in modern Americana and country-rock music. The band was founded by lifelong friends Isaac Gibson (vocals/guitar), Chase Chafin (bass), and Bus Shelton (guitar), who grew up together in the heart of Appalachia and named the group after Winchester Street, where many of their early musical memories were made.

What sets 49 Winchester apart is their unique blend of country, Southern rock, Americana, and Appalachian soul. Their songs combine heartfelt storytelling with powerful musicianship, drawing inspiration from both classic country legends and rock influences. Frontman Isaac Gibson's gritty, emotional vocals have become one of the band's signature trademarks.

The band spent years building a devoted grassroots following by touring relentlessly and independently releasing albums before breaking through nationally with their 2022 release Fortune Favors the Bold. Follow-up albums Leavin' This Holler (2024) and Change of Plans (2026) further established the group as one of the leading voices in the new generation of country and Americana music.

Today, 49 Winchester is known for energetic live performances, sold-out shows, and a growing international fan base. Despite their success, the band remains deeply connected to its Appalachian roots, often describing themselves as "torchbearers for Appalachia" and proudly representing the culture and spirit of the region in their music. Listen to a cut HERE

The Red Clay Strays are one of the fastest-rising bands in Southern rock and country music. Formed in Mobile, Alabama, the group blends classic rock, country, soul, and gospel influences into a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Led by the powerful vocals of Brandon Coleman, the band built a loyal following through relentless touring and electrifying live performances before breaking through nationally with songs like "Wondering Why." Their heartfelt songwriting, rich harmonies, and Southern roots have earned them comparisons to legendary acts while establishing a style all their own. For fans of authentic, roots-driven music, The Red Clay Strays are a band worth discovering.

FLASHBACK!!!!!! The 90’s

Blues Traveler is an American rock band best known for blending blues, rock, folk, and jam-band improvisation into a distinctive sound. Formed in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1987, the group rose to national prominence in the 1990s with hits like "Run-Around" and "But Anyway." Fronted by the charismatic John Popper, whose virtuosic harmonica playing became the band's trademark, Blues Traveler earned a devoted following through energetic live performances and extended improvisational jams. More than three decades later, the band continues to tour and record, remaining a favorite among fans of roots-based American rock music.

The band has an active 2026 touring schedule that includes festival appearances, headline shows, and a major summer co-headlining tour with the Gin Blossoms, with Spin Doctors as special guests. The tour runs from July through September and includes stops across the United States. Check out their tour dates.

The band is still led by John Popper, whose harmonica playing and vocals remain the group's signature sound. They also continue their annual Fourth of July concert tradition at Red Rocks Amphitheater.

Hope you had a fun time - See You Next Week! - Andy

Questions or Comments? email us at: [email protected]