Bob catches up with Aaron Watson PAGE 10
“On the Rock's” with Camille Sanchez
PAGE 9
Thursday, February 10th 2pm – 6pm Art Thursday at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts Located in the education studio. Art activities for children and their families. Free – FMI 325-653-3333 6:30pm Chicken Farm Art Center – Live music in the Courtyard 2505 Martin Luther King. FMI call 325-653-4936 7:30pm-9:30pm “One Night Stand” The Peoples Theatre Group of San Angelo is holding an interest meeting for a new production. Actors, singers, dancers, and entertainers, 18 and up, come and bring your friends. No experience needed. 7PM ASU Planetarium – Black Holes General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188
Friday, February 11th True Blue ASU – The ASU Government Association is launching a campaign to have San Angelo community members wear ASU blue on Fridays – and also during ASU events. 8pm Annie Get Your Gun When With one rousing number after another, and characters sure to get your boots a tappin', the high spirited Annie Oakley proves "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" in this enduring musical for the ages. At the Angelo Civic Theatre FMI: 325-949-4400 7PM ASU Planetarium – Black Holes General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 8PM ASU Planetarium – Stars of the Pharaohs Viewers will learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188
Saturday, February 12th Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day Join the Fort Concho Buffalo Soldier Living History Unit as they celebrate the history and heritage of the African American Soldiers who served Fort Concho and other forts across the United States. The event includes education programs and living history demonstrations. FMI Paul Cook 325-657-4440 9am Adult Birding Adventure Meet at the South Gate at the State Park FMI: 325-944-1839 9:30am-12pm - Kendall Art Gallery – Watercolor Classes Watercolor techniques on Saturday and Sunday Cost is $120 FMI 325-659-8831 7PM ASU Planetarium – Astro Otters: Destination Moon General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 3PM ASU Planetarium – Stars of the Pharaohs Viewers will learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 8pm Annie Get Your Gun When With one rousing number after another, and characters sure to get your boots a tappin', the high spirited Annie Oakley proves "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" in this enduring musical for the ages. At the Angelo Civic Theatre FMI: 325-949-4400
Sunday, February 13th 2pm – 4pm Black History Month – Fort Concho Luis Padilla “A young private’s transition to sergeant and his view of history and the buffalo soldier legacy” FMI 325481-2646
Monday, February 14th 5pm – 7pm Shannon Medical Plaza Opening Celebration: Bring your Valentine and join us as we celebrate the completion of our Medical Plaza expansion. Enjoy chocolate and wine as you tour our new facilities, visit with our staff and learn about services available for our patients. 102 N. Magdalen 7pm Champagne and Diamonds Help the Children’s Advocacy Center of Tom Green County celebrate 19yrs of helping others. Catering by Mesquite Bean Café and Entertainment by Jazz Concho. $75 per person, Cocktail Casual and Open Bar. At the Cactus Hotel.
Tuesday, February 15th 2pm – 2:30pm German Coffee & Conversation University Center/ room 110/111, behind Starbucks 5:30pm – 6:30pm Russian Coffee & Conversation ASU Academic Building room 121 5:30pm – 6:30pm Spanish Coffee & Conversation University Center/ room 110/111, behind Starbucks
10am – 3pm SAMFA FREE Family Chinese New Year Celebration at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts San Angelo Broadway Academy Annual Garage Sale Furniture, Clothes, Household items, Art, Toys, bake sale and more. 10 N. Taylor – Proceeds go to benefit performing arts programs at SABA.
To submit your events go to www.sanangelospotlight.com
SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
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February 10, 2011
7:30pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo 8pm Annie Get Your Gun When With one rousing number after another, and characters sure to get your boots a tappin', the high spirited Annie Oakley proves "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" in this enduring musical for the ages. At the Angelo Civic Theatre FMI: 325-949-4400
Friday, February 18th True Blue ASU – The ASU Government Association is launching a campaign to have San Angelo community members wear ASU blue on Fridays – and also during ASU events. 7:30pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo 7PM ASU Planetarium – Astro Otters: Destination Moon General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 3PM ASU Planetarium – Stars of the Pharaohs Viewers will learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188
Saturday, February 19th 10am 79th Annual Rodeo Parade Parade will begin at Irving and Concho St. 1:30pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo 2PM ASU Planetarium – Astro Otters: Destination Moon General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 3PM ASU Planetarium – Stars of the Pharaohs Viewers will learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 7:30pm San Angelo Wine and Food Festival Gourmet Dinner at the San Angelo Country Club FMI: 6693-6793 7:30pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo 8pm Annie Get Your Gun When With one rousing number after another, and characters sure to get your boots a tappin', the high spirited Annie Oakley proves "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" in this enduring musical for the ages. At the Angelo Civic Theatre FMI: 325-949-4400
Sunday, February 20th 2pm Play It Again Concert West Texas Jazz Orchestra at the Museum 6:30pm Motion Image Theatre – SAMFA “Who is Killing the Great Chefs of Europe?” Deliciously funny who dun it, involving gourmet food and beautiful European scenery. San Angelo Museum f Fine Arts FMI 325-653-3333 Wednesday, February 16th
2pm Annie Get Your Gun When With one rousing number after another, and characters sure to get your boots a tappin', the high spirited Annie Oakley proves "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" in this enduring musical for the ages. At the Angelo Civic Theatre FMI: 325-949-4400
10am – 10:30am Stories and Songs for Preschoolers Tom Green County Main Library 113 W. Beauregard
2pm – 4pm Black History Month – Fort Concho Dr. Kenneth Heineman “Fighting for Freedom” The origins and debate over Black Military Service in the Civil War. FMI 325-481-2646
Thursday, February 17th
3pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo
2pm – 6pm Art Thursday at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts Located in the education studio. Art activities for children and their families. Free – FMI 325653-3333
Monday, February 21st
5pm-9pm Downtown Art Walk www.downtownsanangelo.com
5pm – 6pm French Coffee & Conversation University Center/ room 110/111, behind Starbucks
7PM ASU Planetarium – Stars of the Pharaohs Viewers will learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 8PM ASU Planetarium – Black Holes General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325942-2188
“Presidents Day”
Tuesday, February 22nd 10am Story Time for Preschoolers Tom Green County Library (Angelo West Branch) 3013 Vista Del Arroyo 2pm – 2:30pm German Coffee & Conversation University Center/ room 110/111, behind Starbucks
SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
5:30pm – 6:30pm Russian Coffee & Conversation ASU Academic Building room 121
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February 10, 2011
LOCAL SIGN-UPS
5:30pm – 6:30pm Spanish Coffee & Conversation University Center/ room 110/111, behind Starbucks
Wednesday, February 23
KID SIGN-UPS
rd
10am – 10:30am Stories and Songs for Preschoolers Tom Green County Main Library 113 W. Beauregard 7:30pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo
Thursday, February 24th 2pm – 6pm Art Thursday at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts Located in the education studio. Art activities for children and their families. Free – FMI 325-653-3333 6pm 27th Annual San Angelo Wine and Food Festival Gourmet Dinner, Grand Auction and Dance $150 per person FMI 325-653-6793 7PM ASU Planetarium – Stars of the Pharaohs Viewers will learn about the connection the ancient Egyptians felt with the stars and various astronomical phenomena. General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 8PM ASU Planetarium – Black Holes General Admission $3 adults, $2 for children and senior citizens. No charge for ASU students, faculty and staff FMI 325-942-2188 7:30pm Stock Show and Rodeo 79th San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo 8pm Annie Get Your Gun When With one rousing number after another, and characters sure to get your boots a tappin', the high spirited Annie Oakley proves "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better" in this enduring musical for the ages. At the Angelo Civic Theatre FMI: 325-949-4400
San Angelo ISD Group Swim Team Swimming/Aquatics ages 715yrs old, with some breathing skills– May sign up at any time through May 27th. $35 per month, FMI 325-659-3434 ext. 133 Now Enrolling for San Angelo Broadway Academy: DanceTheater Arts-Vocal performance-Art Design Ages 3- 18 for 2011 Spring Semester FMI: 325-763-4807 or visit www.sabroadwayacademy.org Youth fitness Program: This exercise program is for 11-13 year olds. It is a structured class designed to teach proper form and technique for various exercise. Schedule: Tues.-Thurs. 7:30pm-9:00pm, Fridays 5:00 pm-8:00pm & Sat. & Sun. All Day Cost: Group Session $40 / Child FMI: Contact the YMCA @ 325-325-655-9106 San Angelo Girls fast-Pitched Association: Open registration begins January 30th, 10am – 1pm at Academy Sports & Outdoors Ages: 4yrs- 18yrs of age FMI: Sherri Carney, 325-659-4327 or carneycrew@msn.com Sign Up for Scouting: *Can Sign Up year Round* - Girl Scouts of Central Texas & Boy Scouts of America FMI:: Boy Scouts 325-6557107 or Girl Scouts 325-655-8961 Youth Volleyball League: YMCA Registration Jan 3rd– February 21st, 3rd through 8th grade, member $50, non-member $65, FMI Terrell Lee 325-655-9106 or tlee@zipnet.us Youth Volleyball Clinic: Feb 21st-Feb 24th, YMCA Registration Jan 3rd– February 21st, 3rd through 8th grade, member $50, nonmember $65, FMI Terrell Lee 325-655-9106 or tlee@zipnet.us
ADULT SIGN-UPS China Painters All china painters, want-to-learn china painting or anyone new to the community and want to see what we do are encouraged to join us. 618 S. Chadbourne St. Tuesday s from 8:30am- 4:00pm FMI: 325-223-0647 Slow Pitch Umpires needed for 2011 Season FMI: Call 325-657-4450 San Angelo Flying Lessons Are you ready for the ultimate thrill of flight lessons? To learn more about our mind-blowing Flight Lessons, airplane tours Call 1-800-226-1116 Zumba Classes sponsored by ASU Multicultural Center Free 8:00-9:00pm University Center 110/111 Contact: Adriana Balcorta (325) 942-2729 Ballroom Dancing Classes 6:30pm – 8:30pm Santa Fe Crossing - 702 S. Chadbourne Taught by Scott Gilmore Cost is $32 per person a month. Register in advance. 481-2798 Square Dancing All ages 18 and up are invited, all levels of dancing. You do not need to bring a partner, singles and couples are invited to come out for fun and exercise! New dancers practice on Tuesday nights from 7-9pm SALSA LESSONS Oasis the Club Monday Nights- 7pm Concho Kennel Club 507 West 47th Street Informal Conformation Handling Class 1st & 3rd Wednesday Evening’s 7:00 pm FMI call (325) 655-0344
SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
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February 10, 2011
BASEBALL SOFTBALL ASU SOFTBALL February 12 - ASU Blue and Gold Classic ASU vs. Texas Permian Basin
1:00PM HOME
February 12 - ASU Blue and Gold Classic Belles vs. Washburn
3:00PM HOME
February 13 - ASU Blue and Gold Classic Belles vs. Washburn
12:30PM HOME
February 13 - ASU Blue and Gold Classic Belles vs. Texas Permian Basin
2:30PM HOME
February 18 - Southeastern Oklahoma Invitational ASU vs. University of Nebraska-Omaha
10:00AM Durant, Okla
February 18 - Southeastern Oklahoma Invitational ASU vs. Central Missouri
4:00PM Durant, Okla
February 19 - Southeastern Oklahoma Invitational ASU vs. Ouachita Baptist
10:00AM Durant, Okla
February 19 - Southeastern Oklahoma Invitational ASU vs. Centari Oklahoma
4:00PM Durant, Okla
February 20 - Southeastern Oklahoma Invitational ASU vs. Henderson State
2:00PM Durant, Okla
February 20 - Southeastern Oklahoma Invitational ASU vs. Northeastern Oklahoma State
4:00PM Durant, Okla
ASU BASEBALL February 11 ASU vs. Incarnate Ward
1:00PM San Antonio
February 12 ASU vs. Incarnate Ward
1:00PM San Antonio
February 18 ASU vs. East Central
4:00PM HOME
February 19 ASU vs. East Central
1:00PM HOME
February 22 ASU vs. Ouachita Baptist
1:00PM Ft. Worth
PHOTOS FROM ASU ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
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February 10, 2011
HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL February 12 - Scrimmage Lady Cats vs. Eastland Springtown
TBA AWAY
February 17-19 Lady Cats vs. Ft. Worth Western Hills Tourney
TBA AWAY
LAKE VIEW February 12 Maidens vs. Levelland/ Canyon Scrimmage February 15 Maidens vs. Midland
TBA AWAY 4:00PM HOME
February 17-19 Maidens vs. Abilene Tourney
TBA AWAY
February 22 Maidens vs. Wylie
4:00PM HOME GRAPE CREEK
February 12 Lady Eagles vs. Winters Early
4:00PM HOME
February 15 Lady Eagles vs. Junction
6:00PM AWAY
February 17 Lady Eagles vs. Miles Tourney
TBA AWAY
February 118 Lady Eagles vs. Winters
6:00PM AWAY
February 19 Lady Eagles vs. Miles Tourney
TBA AWAY
February 22 Lady Eagles vs. Anson
6:00PM HOME WALL
February 12 Lady Hawks vs. Haskell/Junction Scrimmage January 15 Lady Hawks vs. TLCA February 18-20 Lady Hawks vs. Crane Tourney February 21 Lady Hawks vs. Forsan
10:30PM HOME
CENTRAL SOCCER February 15 Lady Cats vs. Abilene Cooper
4:30PM AWAY
February 15 Bobcats vs. Abilene Cooper
6:30PM AWAY
February 19 Lady Cats vs. Odessa Permian
February 19 Bobcats vs. Odessa Permian
2:00PM HOME
February 21 Lady Cats vs. Midland Lee
4:30PM HOME
February 21 Bobcats vs. Midland Lee
6:30PM HOME LAKE VIEW SOCCER
5:00PM HOME TBA AWAY 5:00PM AWAY
12:00PM HOME
February 10 Maidens vs. Odessa High February 11 Chiefs vs. Stephenville High February 14-15 Maidens vs. Tourney - Marble Falls
TBA AWAY 7:00PM AWAY TBA AWAY
February 15 Chiefs vs. Abilene Wylie
7:00PM AWAY
February 18 Chiefs vs. Brownwood
7:00PM AWAY
February 20-22 Maidens vs. Tourney - Azle February 22 Chiefs vs. Stephenville
TBA AWAY 6:00PM HOME
SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
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February 10, 2011
Eola School Brewery Just a short jaunt outside of San Angelo you’ll find a real treat at the Eola School Brewery Restaurant & Lodge. James “Mark” Cannon is the enigmatic owner, head chef, and brew-master at the Eola School. Six years ago Mark stumbled upon the old abandoned high school in Eola, and thought it a good place to start his own beer label. Consequently, Mark packed his bags, moved from his home in Oregon to Eola TX, and bought the school. In a couple of years, and with a lot of elbow grease, Mark had attained his dream. He manufactures some of the best beer in Texas and has created his own label dubbed Bright Brewing. I recently talked with Mark about the brewing process. Avid home brewers will know that the way most folks make micro-brews is through a process that uses pre-manufactured malt extracts that contain vast amounts of processed and refined sugars. Mark is an absolute purist. He only uses specialty grains out of which he methodically teases the natural sugars that turn into alcohol during the fermentation process. This allows Marks beers to have complex and full flavors indicative of most high-end beers. The natural unprocessed sugars that come from the grains also carry through the filtering process certain vitamins like vitamin B4 that helps boost liver function. You will not find these attributes in most commercial beers. The vitamins tend to get filtered out, and preservatives are added lending to that sharp-out-of-the-can taste. Marks beers taste incredibly clean and smooth by comparison. His knowledge on beer and brewing is vast and Mark is certainly not loath to share all the intricacies of his knowledge with anyone who walks through his door. He offers two beer choices; a dark porter-style as well as a traditional lager. Each time I go to the Eola School Brewery I find the premises in some new phase of funky remodel. Mark is a do it all type of guy who is putting his heart and soul into the reclamation of the school and making it into a premier venue for live music, events, and fine dining. So don’t be surprised to step over the occasional extension cord on your way to the bathroom. Upon completion the brewery will have one of West Texas’ best live music auditoriums and a full-scale restaurant all on site. For now, Mark is serving homemade pizzas, burgers, and chicken strips with a few appetizers. The pizza is made with five different kinds of cheeses and topped with fresh basil, home grown tomatoes and fresh local goat cheese. It is fantastic. The burgers are also incredible. Take an appetite because the half pound patties come with about two inches of toppings. If you pull his leg, Mark will throw some of his famous goat cheese on the burger for you. Call ahead a day or two in advance when taking a group because Mark is liable to cook a brisket for the occasion. You can find the Eola School in Eola TX at 12119 FM 381 just off the main road. The phone number is 325-469-3314 and Mark is open till around 10pm every night. Take some friends and some board games or just sit and chat with Mark. You’ll enjoy the unique local experience.
Review by Grant Ingram
Monday, Feb 14
Tuesday, Feb 15
Breakfast: Hot Pocket, Grape Juice, Breakfast: Sausage Roll, Apple Milk Juice, Milk
Wednesday, Feb 16
Thursday, Feb 17
Friday, Feb 18
Breakfast: Breakfast Sandwich, Grape Juice, Milk
Breakfast: Pancake on a Stick, Apple Juice, Milk
Breakfast: Sunrise Bites, Grape Juice, Milk
Lunch: Oven Baked Ham or SpaLunch: Grilled Cheese or Cold Ham Lunch: Beef Nachos or Quesadillas, Lunch: Pizza or Lasagna, Califorghetti w/ Meat Sauce, Corn, Tossed & Cheese Sandwich, Beef Vegeta- Ranch Style Beans, Tossed Salad, nia Vegetables, Garlic Roll, Fresh Salad, Hot Roll, Applesauce, Milk ble Soup, Pears, Chocolate Cake, Fruit Salad, Milk Orange, Milk Milk
Lunch: Cheeseburger or Hamburger, Oven Fries, Hamburger Salad, Oatmeal Cookie, Milk
Monday, Feb 21
Tuesday, Feb 22
Wednesday, Feb 23
Thursday, Feb 24
Friday, Feb 25
Breakfast: Cheese Toast, Grape Juice, Milk
Breakfast: Sausage Roll, Apple Juice, Milk
Breakfast: Breakfast Pizza, Grape Juice, Milk
Breakfast: Pancake on a Stick, Apple Juice, Milk
Breakfast: Cinnamon Bun, Grape Juice, Milk
Lunch: Corn Dog or Fish Sticks, Macaroni & Cheese, Green Beans, Peaches, Milk
Lunch: Steak Fingers or Oven-Fried Lunch: Beef Nachos or Taco BurgChicken, Green Peas, Mashed er, Pinto Beans, Mixed Fruit, Milk Potatoes, Cream Gravy, Spice Cake, Milk
Lunch: Chicken Nuggets or Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes w/ Brown Gravy, Broccoli, Hot Roll, Apple Wedges, Milk
Lunch: Chili Dog/Hot Dog or Turkey Deli Sandwich, Tator Tots, Peanut Butter Cookie, Milk
SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
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February 10, 2011
Most of us undergo a week filled with demanding, energy-consuming responsibility. With work, kids, and everything in between, I personally look forward to some time to sit back and unwind. Although San Angelo's nightlife is undoubtedly flourishing, smokey, crowded bars just aren't my idea of relaxation. In our house, when we think of a “relaxing weekend” we think of a calm and unique atmosphere, good company, and of course a great glass of wine! Which, is why I leave no stone unturned in my venture for this exact type of setting. Christoval Vineyards has created an unprecedented experience that is truly unlike anything else in West Texas. Located just 15 miles from San Angelo, their 25 acre estate vineyard and winery is a gorgeous, departure from the ordinary. As you drive through the grand, stone, and rod iron entrance, you are instantly welcomed by an exquisite “European-style”, stone, chateau. This enchanting chapel provides the perfect setting for The Christoval Vineyards' tasting room. Visitors are able to tour and enjoy the estate grounds as well as taste a collection of sophisticated, delicious wines. Their collection includes four reds and four whites, each of their wines are pleasant, easy drinking, and sure to please any palette. As a family owned and operated business, Drexell and Nancy Vincent have developed an amazing establishment. Drex and his two sons, Blake and Bryan, each bring their own area of expertise to the business and complement one another perfectly. In addition to the winery and tasting room, Christoval Vineyards is also the home of the Chapel in the Vineyard event center. Chapel in the Vineyard is prepared to accommodate everything you need for weddings, wine tastings, and other special events. Rows and rows of beautifully manicured grapevines and immaculate landscaping provide a charming ambiance. In conjunction with all of the impressive resources available at Christoval Vineyards, they also offer membership to their Vintner's Club. This exceptional wine club provides you with discounts, exclusive access to events, and other privileges not available to the general public. Two different membership levels allow you to receive their wine directly to your door throughout the year. I love this concept and count on our thrice yearly shipment of wine, as well as news and event invitations from the winery! Despite the fact that it is the end of January and most of West Texas is brown, dry, and uninviting, Christoval Vineyards' estate is an extraordinary divergence from the usual. The Vincent’s have successfully actualized a unique and beautiful destination in the heart of West Texas. I look forward to the approaching warm weather; I will certainly be a regular at Christoval Vineyards. What better way to spend a hot, sunny day, than at a captivating vineyard, with great friends and of course, great wine! People are always asking me to suggest unique, local places to check out in San Angelo. Make the short drive out to Christoval Vineyards and enjoy a taste of French countryside, right here in West Texas! Please visit www.chapelinthevineyard.com for more information.
Aaron Watson has to be, without a doubt, the most caring, loving, faith based Texas country artist known to fans of the genre. If it’s not just his music alone that keeps his fans attentive and wanting more, it’s certainly his attributions of kindness. From a once known hot headed performer, Watson is a new man with startling record sales, a killer tour bus, and a wife and family he adores. Most of all he gives thanks to God above who he says has changed him and uses his craft to reach other people by such indefinable grace. Watson, dub as the “Honky Tonk Kid”, started playing music as a student at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas. The Amarillo native released his first album, Texas Café in 2001 followed by 2002’s Shutupanddance which garnered him some attention throughout the lone star state. The album that really made Watson a staple in the Texas mu sic scene was the release of 2008’s Angels & Outlaws that featured his hit song “Barbed Wire Halo”. Since then, Watson has continued to tour, write, and record his music. I recently caught up with Watson about his career, family, fans, and his upcoming trip to play Midnight Rodeo here in San Angelo. Spotlight: How did you get started playing music? Watson: Well really it’s all kind of a big blur but it’s hard to believe that it’s 2011 and I’m working on my 11th record. It almost doesn’t seem real. But when I was going to ACU, I was playing a little baseball – actually, I was more sitting on the bench than anything and I hurt my back pretty good and it shortened my baseball career so I was kind of bummed for awhile but it’s one of those things that’s a classic example of what you have planned and what the good Lord has planned for yourself are two different things. One door closed and the music door opened but it was really the songwriting side of things more than anything. But country music has a way of telling a story and when you hear the way I talk, you can see that I probably fit in great with country music. Spotlight: Who do you list as influences that got you interested in music? Watson: I’ve really always enjoyed the old school stuff like Ernest Tubb and Bob Wills and Lefty Frizzell but definitely Willie (Nelson), Waylon (Jennings), Merle (Haggard) but I always use Johnny Cash as an example of a man who experienced more than his fair share of rough times and really bad, bad decisions. But he was able to get through his addictions and affairs and when he gave it over to Jesus, that’s when he saw his life really turn aro und. Now, is Johnny Cash music my favorite kind of music? No. It’s not at all. But I’m more inspired by him more than anything because he was so bold and could speak up to the whole wide world about what Jesus would do and so for me that is the most inspiring thing personally for me. But let’s be honest; his (Johnny Cash) music is trendy and just like his, my records will get put up on some shelf and collect dust and they might get played on some classic country radio show from time to time but it’s one of those things. Johnny Cash was doing something bigger than music. And I’m in honky tonks and bars on a weekly basis and those are some really crazy places where looking at Johnny Cash, I keep forging ahead in the right direction. Spotlight: You’re a pretty faith-based guy. Would you say your career is almost like a ministry? Watson: Well, you know, I like to think of myself as a Christian artist that sings country music. I would like to think that no matter what I’m doing if it’s singing country music or if I’m running a lawn mowing business that I would do my best and glorify God in everything that I say and do. And it took me a few years to figure out, and I’m still figuring it out and you can ask my wife and she’ll tell you I’m far from perfect but I’m constantly making a difference and realizing that I’m not the one in charge. I guess my goal is to sell millions and millions of records. I’m a competitive guy and I would love to do that but I’ve done incredibly well and I’ve done it independently and I guess my number one goal is that whenever I’m being measured and weighed someday that it would be a nice thing to know that I wasn’t singing for myself and to have Jesus tell me that I did some really great things for him through my music. That’s the ultimate goal. That might sound a little out there but really that’s what it’s all about. And again, no matter what I do, I know I’m not exceptional because I play music for a living. I think that my career gives me an awesome platform in which I can get up on a stage in front of thousands and thousands of people every month and try my very best to be a positive influence on them so I do believe that I’m not something special and I am incredibly average. And I’ll tell you that with this opportunity, I am always kind of paranoid because I don’t feel I deserve to be in the position that I am in so for me, I take it a little bit more personal that I’m making all the right people happy. There are a lot of people that have gotten me to this point and God has put a lot of incredible people in my life that has helped me get to this point. So I am constantly pushing and pushing to be a better man. And I do struggle, no doubt. Spotlight: What are some of your favorite songs that you’ve written? Watson: I think “Barbed Wire Halo” is definitely one. If I could be known for one song, that is what I would pick. There is a song I wrote for my wife called “Unbelievably Beautiful” and I had been listening to a lot of Frank Sinatra when I wrote that song and I was really proud of the lyrics and the melody and for musical reasons I came up with that one. I could go on and on about the songs that I don’t like. There are always two or three songs on my records that I can’t stand and it’s always those two or three that everybody likes. I know different strokes for different folks but I’m definitely more of a fan of the songs that are more heartfelt where I have more of a personal tie to. But I was in church a few months back and I was thumbing through the hymnal for a few old school songs to sing and the preacher was preaching on faith and there is a bible verse which says, “You show me your faith by what you sing and I’ll show you my faith with what I do”. That kind of just slapped me in the face and I thought that the world can always use another gospel record but I wonder what I could do that could make a bigger statement than that. It’s means more than anything putting my money where my mouth is kind of thing and I’m working on a record called Swinging For the Stars and it’s going to be a swinging jazz record and there’s going to be tons of big name guests and singers on it and the entire record is going to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis. And it’s called Swinging for the Stars because the stars aren’t the singers or the musicians. The stars are the doctors, the nurses, the volunteers and the superstars are definitely the kids because they’re the ones going through these tough times. Of all the records I’ve ever done, this is the most exciting one. I’ve been working like a dog on this thing so I’m teaming up again with Ray Benson and we’re thinking or teaming up with a symphony for it. And this record isn’t about me. My biggest passion isn’t music, it’s my family and I have three kids, sweet baby dolls so when I had the honor of being at the St. Jude’s kick off in Memphis, being a daddy walking through those doors and seeing kids the same age as mine with shiny bald heads and smiles definitely was an eye opene r for me so that’s where this album idea came to be. Spotlight: Could you reveal who all is on the album? Watson: I can’t. But there’s going to be some good ones. And no date yet on when it will be out. If it’ll take me 3 years to make it right then I will take my sweet time to do it because I want it to be super special. Spotlight: What is life on the road like for you being away from your kids and wife? Watson: It’s great! It’s pretty chill on the road right now you know. I’ll give you an example of a day in the life of Aaron Watson; today for instance, we got done with our show at 12:30 in the morning and I signed autographs till 2 o’clock, climbed on the bus and got ready for bed, went to the back room Continued on Page 14 of the bus which is kind of like my little work area and I’m not going to lie; it’s pretty sweet back here.
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MUSIC LINE-UP Thursday, February 10th Live Music in the Courtyard – Chicken Farm Texas Chuck’s Open Mic Night – Spam’s Monty Branham – Sealy Flats Stoney LaRue with Whiskey Myers – Midnight Rodeo
Friday, February 11th Kevin Fowler – Midnight Rodeo Shotgun Rebels - Valentine Failures – The Deadhorse Mark David Manders – Blaine’s Pub Brushfire – Stagecoach Saloon and Dancehall Whistlestix – Spam’s Guitar Jonathon – House of FiFi Dubois Mike Milligan & the Altar Boyz – Sealy Flats
Saturday, February 12th Vallejo – The Deadhorse Eleven Hundred Springs – Blaine’s Pub Odd Company – The Oasis Gasoline Alley – Party Ranch Mike McClure – Steel Penny Pub Tone Pirates – Stagecoach Saloon and Dancehall No Dry Country – Oasis Danny Brooks – Sealy Flats The Shizz – House of FiFi Dubois
Tuesday, February 15
th
Oscar Ornelas – Sealy Flats
Wednesday, February 16th Six Market Blvd – Blaine’s Pub Open Mic Night – Oasis Tone Pirates – Sealy Flats
Thursday, February 17th Cruise Duke – Blaine’s Pub Casey Donahew Band – Midnight Rodeo William Clark Green – Midnight Rodeo
Texas Chuck’s Open Mic Night – Spam’s Manzy Lowry Band – Little River Club Kevin Brown – John Carl Escue – House of FiFi Dubois Slim Jim Rose – Sealy Flats
Friday, February 18th Aaron Watson – Midnight Rodeo Paula Nelson – Blaine’s Pub Snake Skin Prison w/ Honky – The Deadhorse Van Darien – Kylie Rae Harris – House of FiFi Dubois Bryce & The Bad Decisions – Party Ranch Dan Calhoun – Kimbos Saloon Ulrich Elison Trio – Sealy Flats
Saturday, February 19th Kelly Kenning – Blaine’s Pub Nathan Lange Band – Float 404 High Seas Adventure, Favors for Favors – Steel Penny Pub Clever Blue – House of FiFi Dubois Viskus – The Deadhorse Chris Ruest – Sealy Flats
Wednesday, February 23rd Open Mic Night - Oasis Curtis Grimes – Blaine’s Pub Concho Jazz Orchestra – Sealy Flats
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Spotlight: What is your favorite venue to play? Watson: I love fairs, rodeos…those are the best for me. It’s all ages and usually outdoors so it’s not smoky and there are carnival rides and all kinds of cool stuff like that. But as far as venues, tonight I’m playing a place that holds like 500 capacity and tomorrow night I’m playing a place that holds 5,000. Spotlight: What is Honky Tonkin’ For the Hungry? Watson: That is a thing I started up last year. It helps fund a directions home and the union gospel mission in Ft. Worth. It’s an annual thing where we play a show at Billy Bob’s and the proceeds go towards raising money for the homeless and hungry. It’s kind of similar to a benefit I do in Abilene every year. Spotlight: What made you title your album after San Angelo? Watson: Dude, if I had a dime for every time somebody asked me that question, I would be retired. Pretty much anything and everything involves a woman. It’s a funny thing; I dated a girl in college from San Angelo and she was a sweetheart and there’s no hard feeling there. But I think my pursuing a music career was a nail in the coffin as far as our relationship went. So I started writing this song after we broke up and it didn’t go anywhere and I have a file on my computer of old songs I’ve written or ideas. So I was recording a record and Ray Benson who produces all of my stuff said we needed another ballad. So we had one more session in Austin so I went home to see if I could come up with some kind of something. And this was 5 years later and I’m happily married and bought a little house and I’m looking through some songs and didn’t realize my wife was doing something in the kitchen so she heard me singing this song and she asked me when I wrote that and I told her a long time ago. So she really liked that song and I was worried it would bother her. And my wife does not get jealous over anything and sometimes I wish she would. But she pushed me to record that song. But it kind of bugged me because I didn’t want this gal thinking that I was hung up on her. So it was important that I rewrote the bridge, “looking back, it was a blessing that you broke my heart in two, because if I had never lost her, honey, I’d have never found you”. And I never let my wife hear that verse until we had completely recorded the entire song and it was mixed and mastered. And when she heard that bridge, she got all choked up. So I just decided to name the record San Angelo. We have a place that we hunt and go camping at all the time that is right in between Abilene and San Angelo so the whole west Texas area and me being a west Texas boy just kind of fit. It had a ring to it. And there was something about that record that I thought it needed to be called San Angelo. And that record has been incredibly successful for us. All of them had done great but this one was a super, super strong follow up record. And I put out a live record previous to that. And San Angelo is an awesome town. Anytime I come, I just love it. It’s like home away from home. Spotlight: Anything you’d like to say to the folks of San Angelo? Watson: I love everyone for the continuous support over the last 10 years. They’ve never let me down. And I don’t want any fans in San Angelo, I just want a bunch of friends. I’m not a rock star and I don’t really like the idea of fans. They may be a fan of my music and this and that but I don’t consider them fans. I consider the people who help me put food on my table a friend. I’m looking forward to coming to San Angelo and always excited to. You can catch Aaron at Midnight Rodeo on February 18th.
AARON WATSON
So I sat back there for an hour and watched a few episodes of 24 and then I went to bed and I woke up and my bus driver had stopped the bus at a Bass Pro Shop parking lot so I went in there and messed around for a few hours. And then we headed to the gig a few hours away and now we’re here and the guys are doing sound check and then we’ll all go eat dinner and play the show. Meanwhile, my wife is at home with all 3 kids that are probably going crazy. So really it’s momma that’s doing all the work. And sometimes I kind of feel guilty cause when I call, she’s at home and it sounds like she’s in a circus or a zoo on the other end of the line where things are going crazy and I’ve got my feet kicked up on a couch in the bus watching TV. So, yeah, life on the road is definitely a lot more laid back and obviously things are good when you’re on a big fancy tour bus. But I’ve got stories from back in the day when we were carpooling in a van but I’m glad those days are over with cause this bus is my home away from home.