Mike Blakely coming to Harmony House Concerts

Mike Blakely

On Sunday, December 7, 4-6 p.m., one of Texas’ celebrated sons will be performing “live” at Harmony House Concerts. More about this below.

Mike’s short “bio”

Award-winning novelist and singer/songwriter Mike Blakely has published 18 books released by major New York City publishers.  His last two books were co-writes: one with Willie Nelson, titled A Tale Out of Luck, and the most recent with Kenny Rogers, titled What Are the Chances and released Sept. 2013.  Mike’s last release is called A Song To Die For.

As a performing songwriter, Mike has released 11 CDs, performed all over the U.S., and made 16 tours to Europe.  His songs have been recorded by Gary P. Nunn, Red Steagall, Flaco Jimenez and Raul Malo, John Arthur Martinez, Randy Brown, Geronimo Trevino III, Johnny Rodriguez, Johnny Bush, Pauline Reese, and others.

A native Texan, Mike served in the U.S. Air Force and later earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin.  He released his first novel 1988 and his first CD in 1995.  One of his co-written tunes landed on a Grammy Award-winning album by Flaco Jimenez in 1995.  Another was played on the orbiting International Space Station in 2007.

Mike is a two-time winner of Western Writers of America’s Spur Award – once for best western novel of the year, and once for best western song of the year.

Mike spent many years touring with his dancehall band, but now plays more shows as a solo artist, or in a duo or trio configuration at listening rooms, house concerts, festivals, and private parties.  His career as a novelist leads to many non-traditional concerts at book stores, libraries, writers conferences, and book clubs.

“Having celebrated our house concert anniversary with the seventh show by Mike, we can only attest that it just keeps getting better and better!  I’ll personally guarantee it to be one of the musical highlights of your life!” – Paula Reynolds, Hilltop House Concerts, Kerrville, Texas.

“Blakely is a consummate artist whose superb ability to capture an audience only serves to highlight his songwriting skills… which approach brilliance.” – Buddy Case, “The Loft,” Enola, Ark.

“Mike helped us establish our restaurant as a major music venue in the Hill Country of Texas. He has produced a weekly concert series for us for over eight years, consistently packing the house show

Mike Blakely

after show. We have been named “Best Live Music Venue” four years in a row thanks to his efforts.  He is an established talent, a huge asset to our business and a real pro.” – Paul Brady, Owner of River City Grille, Marble Falls, Texas.

About this and all Harmony House concerts:

Mike will perform two 45-minute sets with a 30-minute intermission for guests to enjoy that treats provided by hosts, Scott and Faye.  You are also invited to enjoy bottomless cups of coffee, tea, and punches throughout the show.  There will be basket on the breakfast room table for optional $1 cash donations to help defray the hosts’ expenses.

Make reservations by calling 903/583-2661, leaving the number of seats desired and your contact information (preferably, your e-mail address). The suggested donation for this show is $15 per person with all proceeds going to the performing artist.  To prepay, make checks to Mike Blakely and mail to Faye Wedell; P.O. Box 812; Bonham TX 75418. to be received byDec. 3rd.  Guests may also  pay at the door, but if you make a reservations, please be respectful and show up or cancel by December 3rd.  Seating is limited to 50 guests.

After the performance, there will be an optional Potluck Dinner of Cajun Cooking (Red Beans & Rice), plus salads, cornbread. and yummy desserts for those who opt to stay.  Please state your intention to attend the Potluck Dinner when making reservations.  If possible, let Faye know what you plan to bring or she may have a suggestion, if you’re “stuck”….she tries to keep the menu varied and appetizing for all!

For those who want to bring their own instruments and jam after dinner, there will be a Song Circle (you don’t have to be a pro to perform and you don’t have to perform to attend this portion of the evening).  We literally “play it by ear,” after each show.

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