Band keeps Cash’s memory alive

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This article was published 18/09/2010 (5683 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

One degree of separation — that is all there will be between Johnny Cash, his wife, June Carter, and the audience at The 40 this evening.

Bob Wootton of The Tennessee Three — Cash’s backup band — will perpetuate the legacy of one of country music’s biggest legends.

Wootton’s wife, Vicky, who once contributed to the Carter Sisters’ sound, will also be on stage.

"I worked with the Carter family — June, Helen and Anita — when Bob was with John. That’s how we met," said Vicky, who sings and plays guitar with this new outfit.

"It was the greatest thing that I ever did because not only were you part of something that was history itself, but (John and June) could educate someone in this business. They were there when country music started."

Stories and connections with Hank Snow, Patsy Cline and other greats were just part and parcel of Bob’s and Vicky’s lives.

"It was fascinating to me," she said.

She describes Cash and Carter as two, everyday, down-to-earth people with families, who were trying to make a living, but had to do it in the public eye.

Tonight’s show is focused on the music of these late country giants, especially Cash.

"It’s about carrying on a tradition that John and June started and what they meant to us," Vicky said. "To us, it was about two people that we looked up to, that we loved dearly and that we were fortunate enough to be friends with."

These former colleagues of Cash’s and Carter’s have been touring Western Canada and will be heading back to Nashville after their Brandon show.

"We love it in Canada. This is our third trip up there so far this year. Ever since Day 1, the people have taken us in like we’re family. We love the people and the scenery," Bob said.

When Cash was in his final days, Bob had quit playing and resisted invitations for six years after his friend’s death because he "didn’t want to take advantage of him."

Eventually Bob relented, and has been keeping Cash’s music alive for the past few years.

The show will be comprised of many Johnny Cash tunes as well as younger performers who will be interpreting songs in their own way.

"I don’t care what your age or the kind of music you like, you’re going to hear it," Vicky said. "Come and have a good time."

The Tennessee Three, along with backup musicians and singers, will perform at The 40. The dinner and show package begins at 5:30 p.m., while tickets for the show itself will be available at the door at 7 p.m.