The White Saddle Band
The White Saddle Band has a long and storied history. For more decades than the band members care to count, it has been a well-known and highly sought-after act across the Midwest, sharing stages with legendary Country artists such as Asleep at The Wheel, Poco, Charlie Daniels, and Alabama, often returning to the same venues and municipalities year after year. Although the membership has been fluid throughout its history, under the leadership of Rich Nelson, who has a knack for attracting the very finest singers and musicians, the band has maintained a reputation for delivering energetic performances and creating a lively atmosphere wherever it appears. The current lineup carries on the White Saddle Band’s tradition.
The latest iteration of the White Saddle Band began as an extension of Rich Nelson and Jim Bartholomew’s duo, ON the AIR, who had established a “residency” at the Copper Fiddle, playing every Wednesday and occasional weekends at the popular Lake Zurich Distillery. Having played together in a version of the White Saddle Band in the 1980’s, Jim and Rich often delved into their deep book of country songs, particularly during many impromptu jams with musician friends who came by to do some picking and singing. The popularity of their excursions into Country Music with the audience made it clear to Rich that it might be time to “get the band back together”.
A call to long-time White Saddle Band steel guitarist, Les Urban, turned from gold to platinum when Les not only agreed to re-up with the band, but brought along ace singer/guitarist Rich Prezioso. Les and Rich P had been playing with for years at Stage Left in Woodstock as members of the Stage Leftovers, and had developed an intuitive relationship on their instruments and a wealth of material ideal for the reconstituted WSB. As a bonus, both Les and Rich P could contribute to the vocal mix. Adding drummer Henry Reichert, a seasoned pro who Rich Nelson had played with in the band Diamondback, completed the equation and the White Saddle Band was back in business.
Nearly three years later Country Music has seen another rise in popularity and the White Saddle Band stays busy and happy. Playing a unique combination of Classic Country, Country Rock, Pop and Rock standards, they have become a popular regular attraction at Main Street Outfitters in Wauconda, at Carol’s Pub in Chicago, and at Fitzgerald’s in Berwyn. Needless to say, their home is the Copper Fiddle, where they can often be found trying out new material on Wednesdays or clearing out room for line dancing on the Weekends. The band continues to have fun and presents a blend of strong vocals, multi-layered harmonies, and intricate steel/lead guitar interplay, over just the right beat. It’s an interesting mix that keeps audiences dancing, drinking and guessing, and does justice to the long tradition that is Country Music and the White Saddle Band.
Looking for a band that knows how to entertain and keep the party going? Look no further than The White Saddle Band.
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