(Cushing, Okla.) Folks who came out to the Cushing Country Club Thursday evening were treated to a stellar line up of musicians for the Third/Fourth Thursday with John Cooper.
The Dust Bowl Brothers, comprised of Rick Reiley, Gene Collier, John Williams and Craig Skinner, kicked off the final show at the Cushing Country Club after a rousing introduction by Cooper.
Following the Dust Bowl Brothers, songbird Monica Taylor took the stage, singing several songs written by Tom Skinner who was expected to perform at the event, but was unfortunately unable to attend. Skinner will be inducted into the Oklahoma Music Home of Fame in March.
The Red Dirt Rangers – Ben Han, Brad Piccolo and John Cooper – closed out the evening performing several of their favorites, including the title cut of their most recent CD – Lone Chimney.
Between introductions, Cooper thanked the sponsors and supporters of Third Thursday, including KUSH Radio, Robin Jones, Harry Escott, Don and Leslie Kirkland and of course, the Cushing Country Club.
“When I first started this,” Cooper told the packed room, “I thought I might do it a couple of times – but it’s been three great years!”
The Cushing Country Club will close its doors next week after being purchased by local businessman David Hough. A new and improved version is expected to open in the spring or early summer.
In the meantime, the popular event will go on. Tidewater Winery in Drumright has agreed to serve as the new venue for Third Thursday and KUSH has agreed to continue its sponsorship.
“We just didn’t want it to stop,” Cooper said.
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