Post date: Oct 24, 2011 2:16:27 AM
When we purchased tickets for the Bastrop Fire Relief Concert at the Erwin Center on October 17th, we knew they had an incredible line-up of stars. But we did not expect to hear 5 hours of music, raising over $500,000 for our Bastrop area friends.
Christopher Cross was just finishing up as the first performer when we were seated. Then Eric Johnson and Joe Satriani got the rockers going. Soon Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel brought their smooth Texas Swing to the stage. Asleep at the Wheel were then joined by the Texas Tonados and Augie Meyer for a couple of numbers, then served as the backup band for Lyle Lovett, the Randy Rogers Band and Shawn Colvin. The night was only beginning.
The legendary Willie Nelson came to the stage and the 24,000 fans in attendance cheered each classic song - and there were many. The Avett Brothers joined to add harmony and energy. Next the talented Dixie Chicks returned to Austin for the first time in 6 years and sang many of their hits. Finally, George Strait closed the evening with many of his #1 classic country songs.
We were thrilled by the music and the crowd. Both of my daughters looked forward to seeing the Dixie Chicks for the first time but as we left, I asked Rachel who was her favorite and she said "Willie". I am thankful they got to see him as Jill commented "I never knew he was such an icon!" The Dixie Chicks are clearly in their prime as musicians and performers and "Amarillo by Morning" has always been our favorite George Strait song. All that happened made for a great night for a good cause.