First, a correction. Last week's photo of Billy Joe was taken January 31, at the Broken Spoke-not New Year's Eve. Now for some local news:  KRVL is committed to featuring local artists on a Friday night Roadhouse show and a Saturday live jam. KRVL and other local businesses are sponsoring a dance at the ag barn featuring Cody Widner. Vicki Adams and Delta Delivery will kick off the dance at 8:00 p.m.. Then Cody will perform with members of his band, "Sumthin' Country," and as a special touch, Texas members of George Strait's band, "Ace in the hole," will join them for this special tribute to the Hill Country.

On Saturday, February 17, Cody will join 94 Country's live broadcast at Ken Stoepel Ford Lincoln Mercury in Kerrville from 11:00-2:00 p.m. Immediately afterward, Cody and 94 Country will move to Hastings for a special CD signing to promote the February 24th appreciation dance.

Originally from East Texas, Cody now resides in the Fredericksburg area. Clean cut and serious about his music, he presents the same image both on stage and off. His CD is full of classic sounding country music, music to dance to.

94 Country, KRVL, FM 94.3, was the first radio station to play Cody's music. I first heard of him when AC Print worked on his CD cover. Sandy placed one in my music office, saying, "You'd better listen to this! And he sounds as good as he looks." It took a morning visit to KRVL for me to get the rest of the story.

His song, "Angel in My Arms," appeared on the weekly "Best in Texas" music charts, now at number 25. Obviously the pure country sound that's often been replaced by pop music everywhere else is still alive and well in Texas.

Cody's story is a good one. Growing up in a small town, playing football and running track, he also finished 6th in a statewide debate contest. He picked up a guitar at a pawn shop in Huntsville and a Mel Bay Guitar Book. His favorite performer in Keith Whitley, and his biggest influence is George Strait. He says this about music:  "I just keep it simple and keep it country and that's it."

For an evening of pure country music by a Hill Country talent, one who's destined to move on with his music, get your tickets to his Hill Country Appreciation Party at Back 40, 94 Country and Golf USA in Kerrville. Tickets are $5 and $7 at the door. With $7 food tickets available for a fajita buffet provided by Mamacita's.

Speaking of great, young music, I heard that Harris and Ryden played at Chili's last Saturday. I was at the San Antonio Rodeo and missed the show. I saw their last performance there, and have their new CD, full of great originals and covers of great Texas songwriters. Check out www.harrisandryden.com for more information. Ask the proud dad of the drummer for even more information (Mike Lindley). I'll give you details on the CD later.

I spent last Sunday afternoon at Lone Oak on FM 479 off I-10. What a great Sunday afternoon jam-packed house and packed dance floor. I hear that Nelson City Dance Hall in Waring is hosting a Sunday jam as well. More on that venue later. Call me at 367-3750 or e-mail me at kat@maverickbbs.com with your music news. Remember, you're invited to my book signing at the Cailloux Center on the Schreiner Campus on Wednesday, February 21, at 6:30, followed by a concert with Mike Blakely y los Yahoos. Willie Nelson played the San Antonio Rodeo on February 15. Johnny Nicholas will play a pre-Mardi Gras party (Fais-do-do) at Luckenbach on February 24. Hope you shared your love on Valentine's Day.