'Bulls and Bands' event this weekend at the Black River Coliseum

Bulls, bands, dirt and fans will fill the Black River Coliseum for two action -packed nights this weekend for the Larry Hillis Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat Black River Xtreme Bulls and Bands event.

Fans will have the opportunity to witness some of the nation’s best bullriders go head to head with the rankest bucking bulls in the country.

The action begins at 7:30 p.m. each evening and is presented by Legacy Farm & Land Specialists.

The adrenaline rush will continue after the bullriding action with concerts on the dirt for attendees beginning around 9:30 p.m.

Former saddle bronc rider turned singer-songwriter Chancey Williams and The Younger Brothers Band will take the stage Friday.

Following the debut of his new music video for “The World Needs More Cowboys” last week, the Wyoming native will perform songs from his latest album, Rodeo Cold Beer, as well as new music from his forthcoming album.

Rodeo Cold Beer debuted in the Top 10 on the iTunes country album chart and features tracks about love, endurance, brotherhood and soul searching.

The voice of a new generation defining the West, Williams teamed up with his songwriting partner and producer Trent Willmon for the new album, which includes the spirited country anthem, “The World Needs More Cowboys,” that tips its hat to the University of Wyoming’s motto.

“I had a blast writing this song with my friend and producer Trent Willmon,” Williams said. “It’s a nod to my alma mater, the University of Wyoming, and their marketing campaign of the same name. I think ‘The World Needs More Cowboys’ is a fun song and anthem, but also captures the way I feel about the American West and the high character of the people here.”

Williams renews the traditional roots of country for young fans and old spirits who covet authenticity in this honest ode to the Old West.

The Wyoming native was featured in a campaign for “Visit The USA,” where he discusses more on his home state and how his cowboy lifestyle helps shape his music and unique sound.

Williams and his drummer, lifelong friend, Travis DeWitt, started the Younger Brothers Band with the initial goal of entering a high school talent contest.

The pair had no idea it would lead to small fairs, then big fairs and small bars, then large clubs, and become a full-time career.

The duo are joined by the harmonies and lead guitar of Wyatt Springsteen and the fiddle of Brooke Latka. More recently, Jay Lee Downing joined the band on bass guitar.

“We just love to play, travel, record our own music and represent the great state of Wyoming,” said Williams. “It’s just in our blood, I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Popular ‘Red Dirt’ country artist Stoney LaRue will hit the Coors Light Concert Stage on Saturday to entertain the crowd with original hits such as “Feet Don’t Touch The Ground” and “Look At Me Fly.”

LaRue is known for his real life, thinking man’s music as well as his high energy live concerts with fans singing along to songs such as “Oklahoma Breakdown.”

During his 15-plus years of touring, LaRue has sold over one million records throughout his career, plays 200-plus shows a year and released his newest single, “You Oughta Know” in November 2018.

LaRue’s new album is slated to be released sometime this year.

“Being able to connect with fans the way we can today is mind blowing,” said LaRue. “When this journey started over 15 years ago, communication was restricted mainly to the stage, written letters and before show meet and greets.”

Now with social media, along with the audience feedback at shows, LaRue feels closer to fans than ever and looks forward to the future as he travels around the world writing songs as well as performing.

Together, LaRue and his fans have culled together a “favorite live song set” that is dedicated to his loyal and growing fanbase and can be heard this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

Tickets can be purchased at the Black River Coliseum box office or online through Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.com/brc.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more concert and event information go to www.BigRafterRodeo.com.