Get ready for the 73rd annual Maifest Festival in Herman, Mo.

Friday May 16, 2025 to Sunday May 18, 2025

The Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival, held May 28–31, 2025, in Sedalia, Missouri, celebrates the legacy of Scott Joplin, the "King of Ragtime," known for compositions like the Maple Leaf Rag. This multi-day event transforms historic downtown Sedalia into a vibrant hub of ragtime music, attracting musicians, historians, and enthusiasts worldwide.

The Circus Classic is scheduled to visit Jefferson City, Missouri at the Jefferson City Jaycees Fairgrounds from May 16 to May 18, 2025. This family-friendly event upholds traditional circus entertainment, featuring a variety of acts and activities. Gates open two hours before showtime, offering pre-show attractions such as face painting, pony and camel rides, bounce houses, a free petting zoo, and food truck dining. The circus encourages early arrival to enjoy these activities and capture memorable photos! More information is available on The Circus Classic website.

The SteelDrivers live at The Blue Note Friday May 16th in Columbia. Several albums have been released on Rounder Records, earning multiple Grammy nominations and a 2015 Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album for The Muscle Shoals Recordings. Check out the music HERE

Saturday May 17, Rose Music Hall, Columbia, presents Runnin’ Down A Dream-A salute to Tom Petty by Mercury Trio. Doors open at 7pm show starts at 8pm. Check out the band HERE 

Live Friday May 16th in Camdenton, Missouri at The Ozarks Amphitheater! Nate Bargatze’s 2025 Big Dumb Eyes World Tour. Fans can expect his signature storytelling about family, Southern life, and everyday absurdities from “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up”. Show Time Is 7pm.

Get ready to crank the music! Each week, we’re diving into the heart of classic rock and classic country with our new Album of the Week feature. From the gritty riffs of timeless rock legends to the heartfelt twang of country icons, we’ll spotlight one unforgettable album that defined an era. Kick back, press play, and join us on this musical journey through the classics!

Album of the Week: Debut Album: The Marshall Tucker Band (1973)

Released in April 1973 on Capricorn Records, their self-titled debut album introduced the band’s signature sound and laid the foundation for their enduring legacy. Recorded in Macon, Georgia, and produced by Paul Hornsby, the album showcased their ability to fuse Southern rock with country and jazz influences. It consists of seven tracks, primarily written by Toy Caldwell, reflecting themes of life on the road, love, and Southern pride.

Founded by lead singer Doug Gray, guitarist Toy Caldwell, bassist Tommy Caldwell, guitarist George McCorkle, drummer Paul Riddle, and flutist/saxophonist Jerry Eubanks, the band took their name from a blind piano tuner whose name was on a key ring found in their rehearsal space. Their music often featured extended jams, intricate guitar work, and a unique incorporation of flute, setting them apart from contemporaries like The Allman Brothers Band or Lynyrd Skynyrd.

That’s it for this week - If you have an upcoming event you’d like for us to know about or a favorite classic album you’d like to see featured, drop us a note.

See you next week!

Andy Thomas