Acts for 60th Sikeston rodeo announced

SIKESTON, Mo. -- The four entertainment acts for this year's Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo all have one thing in common -- the energy the organization expects them to bring to this year's event.

Acts for the 60th annual rodeo were announced Thursday at the Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce's monthly luncheon. They are The Band Perry, Aug. 8; Jerrod Niemann, Aug. 9; Easton Corbin, Aug. 10; and Justin Moore, Aug. 11.

"This year, I think we're really listening to the fans and giving them what they are wanting," said Craig Templeton, chairman of the entertainment committee. "This year, I think that every night, we've got something for all ages, as all of the artists mix new-age country and traditional country. I really like the direction we've gone in with this lineup."

This year, there will be discounted ticket rates in four bleacher sections, as well as an additional alcohol-free section.

"We're trying something different, and in those sections we are dropping the price to $15 a ticket in the bleachers," said Chris Deen, general chairman for this year's rodeo. All box seats are $30 each, while bleacher seats in the other sections are $20 each.

Beginning to book the artists early this year is what helped bring in such high-quality acts, Templeton said. All of them have several hit songs, and The Band Perry's single "All Your Life" and Justin Moore's "Bait a Hook" are currently topping the charts, according to Templeton.

Niemann recently released the single "Shinin' On Me" and has an album due out later this year, while Corbin is also releasing a single and album soon.

"All of these acts are high-energy, and I think people are really in for a great treat," Templeton said. "These are all very crowd-oriented artists that really get the fans involved in the music. They're all up-and-coming and that's what we like to bring."

At last year's CMA Awards, The Band Perry took home three of the five awards for which it was nominated -- the new artist prize, as well as single and song of the year honors for the single "If I Die Young."

The trio of siblings was also named 2011 ACM Award New Artist of the Year and New Vocal Group of the Year, 2011 CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year and the Nationwide Insurance Best New Live Act at the CMT Awards.

Tickets are on sale now at the rodeo ticket office. They may again be purchased online at www.sikestonrodeo.com.

"Online sales have gone great in the past," Templeton said. "It's hassle-free and there's no standing in line -- as soon as you buy your tickets, you are ready for the rodeo."

This year, Templeton anticipates high ticket sales and is hoping for sellouts. "We really want everyone to come out and enjoy a great rodeo," he said.

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