Country Western Tent
Saturday, Sept. 8th 2012

This years performers will be Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys



 

About The Band
Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys is a band that has hit the ground running when it comes to experiencing success in music. Formed in 2009, the band has been bringing their high energy Americana country rock to sold-out crowds all over Michigan and the Midwest. Staying true to their country roots, on July 23, 2010 they released their first album titled “Homegrown,” which features 12 original tracks that got regional recognition and radio play from some of the largest radio stations in the country. The group played their first show as an opening act to a sold out crowd for Justin Moore. Since then they’ve won B93’s Honky Tonk Heroes battle of the bands distinguishing them as the top new country band in Michigan. Furthermore, they have opened for some of the biggest acts in country music including Gretchen Wilson, Lady Antebellum, Craig Morgan, Ty Stone and so on. Having played shows ranging from 25 to 60,000 people, there is no stage too big or too small. With a long-time musical connection, the boys have a chemistry on stage that brings out the best in their music. Imagine a combination of Justin Moore, Bruce Springsteen, Zac Brown Band, Jamey Johnson, and Eric Church with passion and energy not seen in country music and you’ve got Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys. Their live performances get crowds moving like few other bands can, turning first-time viewers into devoted Grizzly-fans. In a short amount of time the group has developed a faithful fan base from all over the country and even different parts of the world. With a limitless attitude, Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys are ready to take the American country circuit by storm and share their take on music.

 

INDIVIDUAL BIOS

Gunnar Nyblad – From the village of Kent City, Gunnar is a songwriter whose talent spans the length of his family’s apple orchards. Since age 13, he has been writing songs from the tractor. Growing up on the farm has given Gunnar a unique understanding of hard work. That same hard work shines through his songs and style.

Joe Rood – Joe is a true Michigander, and loves his home state dearly. In his spare time he hunts deer and waterfowl from Kent City, to the bridge, and dang near everywhere in between. He is also an avid fly angler, and proudly wears his favorite trout streams etched in the tattoo of Michigan on his lower leg.

Shane Grehan - All the way from Michigan’s north country, the Alpena native harnesses blues roots taking country to a level that drives John Mayer groupies to drop the city slicker and jump in this country boy’s truck. Since the day Gunnar met this modern day shredder they have been great friends discovering country from two very different backgrounds. A little Shane mixed with songs like Sweet Tea, Guns, and Devil Woman seals him as a Grizzly Boy whos not afraid to push the limits of country guitar.

Rob Mason – Rob’s plays the bass guitar, sings, and looks sexy. Since the 8th grade Rob has been slappin that bass, and harmonizing Gunnar back on pitch. “He’s my right hand man” say’s front man. Rob keeps a trained ear on the music while keeping Grizzly Girls on fire with heart melting harmonies featured in songs like Simply Beautiful Girl.

Chris Newberg - Rockford Michigan native Chris Newberg is the Grizzly Boys’ secret weapon playing any instrument we put in front of him. You can normally find him on the keys or slide guitar, however. Having a wide interest in all types of music has helped him bring influences ranging from old-school country to southern rock to the blues. California Chris is king of the Keys with truly original style and beautiful hair. Chris sends out the merchandise chris@gunnartunes.com

Joe Connolly – Known as J-Con to the band, Connolly controls live shows with his Detroit City roots. Giving the Grizzly Boys huge drums on songs such as Old Microphone and Cowgirls Make Some Noise. He’s a perfect fit between travis barker and a tambourine. The punk based drummer has what it takes to turn any crowd into free-for-all mode!

 

Sponsors
TBD