Artist Spotlight:
Flyin Buzzards Bluegrass Band
F
or anyone who was born and raised in the Ozarks, there are certain things that are deeply part of our culture. Neighbors help neighbors. Biscuits and gravy are standard breakfast fare. And not one of us can hold back from toe tapping when bluegrass music plays. More than two decades ago, a bluegrass band was created that continues to perform throughout our area. The Flyin Buzzards Bluegrass Band is recognizable to many locals for their red suspenders and fun bluegrass performances. Over the years, band members have come and gone. But the three original members; Webb Murray, John Amos, and Duane Blevins started after having jam sessions together.
Story by Annie Lisenby Smith
Early on they played several Eagles songs. Current band member Tony Hinkle explained that when one of them commented that they couldn’t “play like the Eagles, but we can soar like the buzzards,” the band name was born. They enjoyed playing with the term “buzzard” because they joked about being middle-aged “ole buzzards.” This led them to settle on the Flyin Buzzards Bluegrass Band. Current members include Hinkle, Wayne Clevenger, Duane Blevins, Bill Harris, and Bo Prock. Together they play a variety of music from many genres including traditional bluegrass, contemporary, new grass, older country, rock-n-roll, folk music and songs from the 1950s and 1960s. For each song, they add their own bluegrass flair.
The Flyin Buzzards Bluegrass Band performed aboard the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad for the annual Santa Train. This event benefits foster families in the area through the For the Kids organization.
Band members have many years of experience playing music, and some will occasionally help with other bands just as other musicians occasionally fill in for the Buzzards. Hinkle explained that they also enjoy sharing their musical talents in other ways. “From time to time we have the opportunity to be involved with music education. We work with the younger generation, giving lessons, or just sitting down with them to jam and have a good time to build their confidence and strengths.”
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