Almost twenty years old now, Hickory Hill has proven to be one of Texas' most popular acoustic groups. They have received many accolades over these years the most recent being selected for a showcase performance at the International Bluegrass Music Association's annual World of Bluegrass in Owensboro, KY in 1996. They have also been the host band of the prestigious Overton Bluegrass Music Festival since 1989.
Hickory Hill includes John Early (guitar), Jimmy Godwin (guitar & fiddle), Don Eaves (banjo), Ronny Singley (mandolin) and Bob Stegall (bass). John and Jimmy sing most of the lead vocals, with Ronny, Don and Bob adding harmony vocals and occasional leads. Variety is an important ingredient in the band's music. According to Bluegrass Newsletter, "Selectivity and tasteful arrangement are characteristic of Hickory Hill's repertoire." During performance, styles will range from traditional to contemporary. Original material is heavily emphasized in their performances and recordings. Jimmy Godwin, an outstanding musician, songwriter and longtime friend of the band, has contributed many to Hickory Hill's most popular songs. Jimmy became a regular member of the group in the fall of last year.
Hickory Hill just completed the recording of a new album entitled "Good Times, Again" and it features a variety of original songs written by bandmembers Jimmy Godwin, John Early and Don Eaves. The album was released just this past spring.
Hickory Hill performs very few "standards," preferring to apply its own style and arrangements to original material, underappreciated "gems" or songs adapted from other styles of music. In addition, they have always been known for their warm personality and stage presence. They believe that effective entertainment requires a combination of showmanship, humor, and music and this has resulted in their appeal to virtually all types of audiences. One reviewer wrote, "Together, they sound like a drink of cold spring water, guaranteed to clear your head and wash away the taste of ashes."
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