Bootheel Rodeo dates, entertainment set

Standard Democrat

SIKESTON, Mo. -- The Sikeston Jaycees are tuning up and singing the praises of this year's rodeo entertainers.

It is a lineup they say will appeal to all rodeo and country music fans.

Opening the four days of rodeo in Sikeston will be Alabama on Aug. 7. Next will be Lonestar on Aug. 8 followed by Gary Allen on Aug. 9 with newcomer Trace Adkins taking the stage for the final performance on Aug. 10.

In making the announcement to the Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce membership Thursday, Scott Balcer, entertainment co-chairman for this year's Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo, said: "We have Alabama which is the band of the decade, Lonestar is the band of the year, Gary Allen has a platinum album and Trace Adkins is an up and coming star.

Each of the rodeo entertainers' introduction was provided a musical lead-in of their songs, beginning with Alabama, which has recorded such hits as "Feels So Right," "Mountain Music," "High Cotton," "The Closer You Get," and "Dancin' Shaggin' on the Boulevard." Alabama's first hit, "Tennessee River," came in 1980 and it has had 41 more No. 1 songs.

After last year's successful performance, Lonestar led the list of entertainers sought by the Jaycees, Balcer said. The group sold-out before the 2001 rodeo opened. He has equally high expectations for 2002.

The group's album, "I'm Already There," earned the band rave reviews and nominations for "Vocal Group of the Year."

Gary Allan began his career playing in California honkytonks at age 12. Today, he has made his success with top albums that have generated top 10 hits, including "It Would Be You." His album, "Smoke Rings in the Dark" features country songs, he believes offer the listeners true stories and strong lyrics.

Also noted for a top show is Trace Adkins, who is earning his name in country music with such songs as "I'm Trying." Adkins has won the Academy of Country Music's New Male Vocalist title.

Ticket forms for the 2002 rodeo are available on the Internet by going to www.sikestonrodeo.com or by calling 1-800-455-BULL.