Mel Tillis to be remembered with concert celebrating Mel Tillis Statesiders Day

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

During the most recent meeting of the Branson City Council, Mayor Larry Milton signed a proclamation, declaring August 8 as Mel Tillis Statesiders Day, honoring Tillis and his band for their part in the preservation of traditional country music.

Mel Tillis' daughter and grandchildren are presented with a proclamation from Mayor Larry Milton

Special to Branson Globe

The proclamation read, in part, “Whereas, it is recognized that Mel Tillis became a Country Music Hall of Famer for his contributions to the genre as a singer, songwriter and iconic American comedian. He had around three dozen top 10 hits on the country charts, was named CMA Entertainer of the Year in 1976, and as a crowning achievement, received the National Medal of the Arts from the President of the United States for his contributions to country music.”

Marshall Howden, Branson Alderman and grandson of Mel Tillis noted, “I’m so proud of the Branson community for coming together in recognition of my grandpa! In the list of entertainer holidays the mayor and I are proclaiming, we had to do something special for the legacy of Mel Tillis and his Statesider Band! It’s going to be a moving event, with special tributes from many Branson stars!”

The special concert in honor of Tillis and his band will be held on Monday, August 8, at Branson’s Copeland Theater. Featured performers will include Mel Tillis Jr., Billy Yates, Clay Cooper, Doug Gabriel, The Blackwoods, Brandon Mabe, C.J. Newsom, Rick McEwen, Stevie Lee Woods, The Sons, Tammy and Tona (The Stutterettes), Logan Allen, Trey Dees, and All Hands on Deck, as well as the Statesiders Tribute Band. The band features two alumni members of Mel’s Statesider Band—Jim Garstang on piano and Mark Pearman on fiddle. Rounding out the band will be Tim Prososki on steel guitar, Mark Boyd on guitar, Brian Duvall (drums), and Steve Leach (bass).

The event is set for Monday, August 8, at 5 p.m. at the Copeland Theater, located at 4230 Gretna Road in Branson. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased by visiting copelandtheater.com.