Singer/songwriter Jerry Schmitt is no stranger to Central Wisconsin and has been a featured performer at many summer festivals, wedding dances and other local venues. With the dog days of summer gone and mosquito season over, the LuCille Tack Center for the Arts in Spencer is pumped and ready to welcome this Stratford native and his band for a highly anticipated appearance on the Tack stage Thursday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Family and friends will remember Jerry’s student years at Stratford High School and his involvement in the school’s music and athletic programs. A four-year member of the prestigious Swing Choir, he performed often at school concerts, competitions, area events and even in Branson, Missouri. While a freshman, he formed his own popular country/variety band.
Today, this charismatic artist and his band, The 100 Miles (AKA The Jerry Schmitt Band), have made a name for themselves by “Putting Country Back into Country Music.” Their sound appeals to young and old alike, and their love of performing and dedication to preserving traditional country music makes each of their shows a unique experience for their fans.
Since its release, Jerry’s first album “100 Miles” has received radio airplay not only in Wisconsin, but internationally as well. The album, consisting exclusively of his own original songs, has drawn rave reviews from people across the United States and abroad.
“Wishful Thinking,” his next album, was released in 2016 and is a tribute to some of his heroes of traditional country music.
Jerry now has three albums under his belt and this intimate show at the Tack will feature songs from all of them. According to Jerry, “It will be a special night for the band and the audience, as we don’t get a chance to perform these songs…at the venues we play.” In addition, Jerry will share the backstories of this carefully selected program.
The 100 Miles Band consists of an all-star cast of musicians that bring an electrifying presence and many years of experience to the mix. The band includes Tyler Crum (Elcho) on lead guitar, Bernie Dick (Mosinee) playing fiddle/banjo/lead guitar, Will Raffas (Rhinelander) on drums, Bruce Lammers (Minnesota) on guitar, and Doug Skicki (Wisconsin Rapids) on steel guitar. Pianist John Altenburgh (Mosinee area) will be a guest artist for this performance. All are hankering to bring their talents to the cozy confines of the Tack.
Tickets are available online at lucilletackcenter.com or by calling the box office at 715-659-4499. Tickets may also be purchased in person by accessing the box office at 300 School St. in Spencer using door 22 on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets for this show are $15.
This performance is being sponsored in part by Ron and Ellen Maurer, Marty & Laurie Reinhart and the Wisconsin Arts Board.
