Buck Owen's adopted hometown of Bakersfield, California honored the legend beautifully.
From signs hanging from freeway overpasses to makeshift memorials all along Buck Owen's Blvd, the people of Bakersfield expressed their sorrow and gratitude for one of their city's most proud citzens.
The turnout at the memorial service at Valley Baptist Church was jaw-dropping. Almost 3000 people packed the church to say goodbye. Local radio station KUZZ and all 3 network TV stations simulcasted the service for those who couldn't attend.
Of course, Dwight Yoakam was there. He's taking the loss of his musical father figure very hard. Brad Paisley made it to the service just in time. You might recall, Brad wore one of Buck's stage jackets when he got inducted into the Grand Ol' Opry. Instead of taking a private jet from his show the previous night in Memphis, Brad found a way to get across the country on a commercial plane. Brad told the crowd that Buck would've killed him if he paid for a private jet. Brad remembered a conversation that he and Buck had about money management as artists. Buck said all the young artists driving around the country in more than one bus were being ridiculous. It's just a waste of diesel fuel in Buck's mind. To avoid hearing the lecture himself, Brad, who has a few more than ONE bus, said that in recent visits to the Crystal Palace, he made his other busses park about a mile away and then he and his band and crew would show up to the Palace in one bus.
Dwight apoligized for putting his hat on in church. He said he did it to honor another piece of Buck's advice. At one time Buck told Dwight "You look good in that hat. You should wear it more often."
There were many emotional and funny moments during the service. Listening to Buck's sons and nephew speak about their Dad, Uncle and Boss was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Buck wasn't always there for his kids, especially when they were young. But after hearing the sons speak, it was obvious that their Dad more than made up for his absence later in life.
Trace Adkins, John Berry and Lulu Roman also participated in the service. All singing and speaking from the heart. Garth Brooks attended, but stayed away from the spotlight.
The one, almost kind of odd, celebrity spotting was when ice-skating star Scotty Hamilton walked into the church. It seems Scott and Brad have become buddies and Scott offered to race Brad up to Bakersfield from Los Angeles airport in his new Porsche. Scott said he got a crash course in Buck Owens history during the two-hour drive and was glad he could help Brad get to the church in time.
Following the service, the sad mood was replaced with one almost resembling celebration. Musicians, family and friends packed into Buck's Crystal Palace theater for an amazing jam session with the Buckaroos backing entertainers Dwight Yoakam, Jim Lauderdale, Brad Paisley and Buck's son Buddy (a dang good singer, by the way).
It was almost haunting to watch Buddy sing his dad's music, especially with how much the two look alike.
All in all, the entire day was a perfect tribute to a man who has done so much for Music and so much for the town of Bakersfield. I was honored to attend. And even more honored to have had the chance to know Buck and his amazing family and staff. Buck preached and practiced loyalty. It was obvious on Sunday that that loyalty is a two-way street.
The Crystal Palace officially re-opens tomorrow with concert from Clint Black.
It would be great to see the Palace continue its reputuation as "the gateway" to Country Music.
Every aspiring Country singer should have three goals - 1) Reach as many people as you can through your music 2) Play the Grand Ol' Opry and 3) Play the Crystal Palace. It's a magical place built on a foundation of passion for Country Music. A passion Buck carried with him to the very end. And a passion that will continue through Buck's staff and family for years to come.
To Buck's family, friends and staff, and to my friends Jerry Hufford and Jim Shaw - my deepest and most sincere condolences. To the people of Bakersfield - thanks for taking of Buck the same way Buck took care of you.

storme