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 The fifth and final night of the “Rockin’ the River” Concert Series was on October 29th and featured country singer and songwriter, Phil Vassar. His fan club was ready and waiting at the doors long before they opened at 7:00 PM. Many of the fans had a once in a life time opportunity to meet the charming Vassar before the show began at 9:45 PM.
Phil Vassar’s career started in a Nashville Italian restaurant that featured local singer/songwriters once a week; Phil happened to be a “regular” there. One night while Vassar was performing, a patron called their father to speak highly of Phil. The father happened to be Engelbert Humperdinck and this is how Phil’s career got off to a radiant start! Not only is he known for his own recorded songs, but Phil has also written for star artists such as, Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson and Jo Dee Messina! In 1999 Vassar received the title of ASCAP's Songwriter of the Year! His first and self-titled album landed him a gig touring with popular country artist, Kenny Chesney. From that album originated songs like “That’s When I Love You” and “Carlene”; both which made top five on Billboard charts. Since then, Vassar has released three albums with a fourth one coming out in 2010 called “Traveling Circus.”
Vassar’s fun personality and high energy made for an animated show! The crowd went wild when he played “My Next 30 Years” which he wrote and mentioned that it was written on his birthday. The song was recorded by singer, Tim McGraw. Phil’s piano was decked out in zebra stripes and as the night progressed, Phil stood, danced and sang on that piano! The audience sang at the top of their lungs to Phil’s country hits: "Just another Day in Paradise,” "Six-Pack Summer" and "American Child." Later in the show, Phil’s band members each had an opportunity to play solo. The members selected rock n’ roll classics and got the audience pumped up for Vassar’s encore performance.
October has been an exciting month for The Dale Jr. Foundation and we are sad that the concert series has come to an end. We are so thankful to the artists and fans for their support and great contributions throughout the series and hope that you will continue to join us at all of our charity events. The Foundation is thrilled to be making donations to Make-A-Wish and Victory Junction Gang Camp thanks to the proceeds from the “Rockin’ the River” concert series.
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