hendrix_maines

Cooler, blankets, chairs, food, and kids all loaded, we pulled into our parking space just after 6:30. We were able to choose just about any spot on the lawn we wanted, so after a family vote, we were in the very front. We munched on Church's chicken, fries, and biscuits, while waiting for the 7:30 show to begin. We really had no idea what to expect, having only heard a song or two from these folks before, and never having seen them LIVE. It was kind of a rare experience for me, because with our limited sitters and kid friendly venues, our outings are most usually to see favorites. Sometimes there's an opening band or following performer that surprises or impresses, but we rarely gamble on just going to see someone we aren't too familiar with.

That said, we had friends who began to arrive. Rhonda, and Rick and family all found spots with us. The kids helped pass out the free fans to many audience members sitting in the heat on the beautiful lawn. I went over and grabbed some popcorn for the kids and stuffed jalepenos for Andy and me from the Lion's Club. The jalepenos were worth the drive to Sherman all by themselves! They're stuffed with a meat mixture, and from a gal who thought the only good stuffed jalepeno was made with cheddar, it was a warm and wonderful surprise. After the saluting of sponsors, explanations of raffles, and discussions of upcoming concerts, the show began.

As Terri and Lloyd took the stage, I noticed immediately to my right the young, teen aged girls sitting on blankets clad in overalls. I could tell they were "Terri fans" by the excitement in their eyes, smiles while singing the words, and general joy at being where they were. I had a thought of being very glad these girls would at least know, regardless of their other musical interests, what good music was all about.

Terri's warm smile, twinkling eyes, spunky nature, and sheer energy immediately draw you into her. She's funny, bright, and seems to just celebrate the moment. I had wondered what would make Lloyd Maines choose to play "second fiddle" to her, knowing his talent, reputation, and knack for producing great musical artists and groups. It wasn't long before I think I figured it out. He enjoys being on stage with her. He is relaxed, able to just sit back and have some fun. I must say I LOVED that he had a photo of his new grandson Jackson Slade (his mom is Dixie Chick Natalie Maines) on the guitar, and spoke about him a couple of times. He's a proud grandpa or rather "Bubba" as he's chosen to be called for now! His wit and smile, and musical abilities were very complimentary to Terri's.

There was another band member many didn't see. It was my music lovin' four year-old "Moose". He played the hell out of his fan, using it for a guitar off and on through the entire show. The harder Terri and Lloyd played, the harder he strummed.

For the record, Terri's song "Dana Blues" is not me. I didn't go to the college she did, nor try to lure her man away with my cooking. I've never traumatized anyone with my cakes. But I got kick out of the song. My kids were quite tickled it had my name in it also. There were several she did that I really liked, perhaps one of my favorites was the last one about her "Mangled Dog".

Like last week's Slaid Cleaves show, Terri appeared to sell many a CD and gain many new fans. Watching the girls on my right enjoy the show, and my son helping them play was my favorite of the highlights. Terri's music is a little different then what I normally surround myself with. We'll definitely go see them again, and if they play Hot Summer Nights in Sherman again, I bet you'll find us up front.

Written by Dana Jones

Concert Date: July 12, 2001

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