We all wanted our last summer to be the best tour of our career and with four of the best musicians the Beachcombers has ever fielded, we were committed to putting on the most professional and entertaining performances of our career. The first half of our grand finale tour had featured several great events with fun shows and enthusiastic audiences. The second half of our summer schedule promised even more of the same, beginning with Aebleskiver Days in Tyler, Minnesota, on July 25th.
We've met so many wonderful people throughout our years of performing around Minnesota and the Midwest and I think that's what we'll miss more than anything else. We met a great couple at our Tyler and Appleton shows who quickly became big Beachcomber fans. When told that this would be our last summer tour, they sent us a sweet email, asking us to try and carry on with our group.
"Hello, Bob and the Beachcombers! This might be a little lengthy, so please bear with me.
When Rick read your last email he told me, "It doesn't look like the band is going to continue on." That hit me like a ton of bricks, and tears were streaming down my cheeks. Then I had an idea, as Rick tells me that I can be stubborn, I decided that I am not going to let you guys quit just yet. We only got to hear two of your concerts, so I am going to pray with all of my heart that you guys will get so many calls for concerts, and make more money than you ever did, and you will want to go on another season!
Secondly, the reason why your band is so important is that you guys actually get out and mix and mingle with the crowds. That means a lot to people. After we went to your concert in Appleton, I was in such a good mood the next few days. Even though this gal tried my patience, I smiled and waved and we found ourselves chatting with each other for the first time. You see, you bring people together without even knowing it! I also have to wonder how Kent can give up his "Pretty Woman" song — seeing the gals giggle, turn red, smile, and have old ladies look at him with the look of, "I've just been serenaded to!"
Please don't ever, ever, ever, ever give up your concert just yet. If you can just hang on for one more season — that would mean a lot to me and others! I've said a lot I know, but this is straight from my heart."
There's nothing better than playing classic rock & roll music on a gazebo in a small town park on a warm sunny evening. Weather reports and radar assured us that we were going to get hosed, but we set up for the show, played a full concert, and enjoyed the families, kids and friendly folks up in Mora, Minnesota.
You can have all of the big city street dances with a thousand beer drinking party animals doing their best to overindulge and pass out behind a nearby barn or porta-potty. The Beachcombers have always preferred families, kids, grandparents, neighbors and friends enjoying the best that summer has to offer, with classic Minnesota warm nights, cool breezes and friendly folks celebrating great music and good times together!
HITZ Reunion with Kent, Bob, Brad and Daryl!
A special thanks to all of the talented musicians, singers, entertainers, sound techs, road crew and booking agents who helped to bring beach party rock & roll music and summertime fun to Minnesota and the Midwest over 38 years!