Cozy up to the WinterNights Singer-Songwriter Showcase

A two-evening showcase of celebrated singer-songwriters will light up the Wimberley nightlife scene January 9 and 10 at the Wimberley Playhouse. Curated by award-winning artist, Susan Gibson, the showcase will feature ten exceptional talents: Pat Byrne, Brennen Leigh, Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines, Jaimee Harris, Michael Hearne and the Red River Songwriters, a quartet composed of Susan Gibson, Walt Wilkins, Drew Kennedy and Josh Grider.

January 9

5:00 Pat Byrne 6:00 Brennen Leigh 7:00 – 8:00 Dinner Break 8:00 Terri Hendrix & Lloyd Maines

January 10

5:00 Jaimee Harris 6:00 Michael Hearne 7:00 – 8:00 Dinner Break 8:00 Red River Songwriters Susan Gibson, Walt Wilkins, Drew Kennedy & Josh Grider For the event, Gibson assumed the role of “Songwriter Wrangler,” as she has had a hand in birthing the event and bringing in the talent. When asked if it was difficult to round up such a large group of artists, she said, “If 25 years of performing doesn’t bring you a great phone list, I don’t know what will.” She is excited to bring her friends to Wimberley, she said, and to show them why she loves it so much.

“Hopefully they will be inspired to write a song about the camaraderie and friendliness of our Hill Country communities.”

The showcase is a collaboration of several organizations: the Wimberley Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance, VisitWimberleyTX.org and The Wimberley Players and is presented by Stars Over Wimberley.

WinterNights Showcase performers are:

Pat Byrne. Pat Byrne hails from Ireland. In 2012 he was crowned the winner of The Voice of Ireland. The win confirmed Pat’s talents as a singer and interpreter of song. Today he continues his career in the rich climate of the Hill Country. (patbyrne- music.com)

Brennan Leigh. Brennen Leigh is a songwriter, guitar player, mandolin player, and singer whose “to-the-point” storytelling style has elevated her to cult status in Europe, Scandinavia, South America, and the United Kingdom. (brennenleigh. net)

Terri Hendrix. Terri Hendrix is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and independent music entrepreneur known for her diverse musical style, compelling lyrics and engaging live performances. (terrihendrix.com) Lloyd Maines. A Grammy- winning producer and musician, the Lubbock-born Lloyd Maines has played an instrumental role in the creation of some of the Lone Star State’s most famous and beloved albums. (lloydmaines. com) Jaimee Harris, Jaimee Harris is a songwriter and performer. Her lyrics reflect her life experiences and reveal a deep vulnerability and well-earned wisdom. (jaimeeharris. com)

Michael Hearne. With a natural ear for harmony and an aptitude for picking, a young Michael Hearne became a sensation in his hometown of Dallas. Collaborating with esteemed musicians and hosting the Big Barn Dance Music Festival each year, Hearne continues to shape the world of music with dedication, skill, and passion for his craft. (michaelhearne. com)

Red River Songwriters, Susan Gibson. A Wimberley-based singer, songwriter and storyteller, Susan Gibson has been a troubadour for much of her long career. She is an insightful and eloquent storyteller with hits that have traveled beyond expectation. She has released six solo albums, the latest being “Compassionate Combat,” and performs throughout the country. Gibson was the lead singer for the alternative country band, The Groobees, and is the writer of the Dixie Chicks hit, “Wide Open Spaces.” Recently, the Dixie Chicks have rebranded their name to the “Chicks.” (susangibson.com)

Walt Wilkins. Walt Wilkins is a revered songwriter among songwriters. Fellow bandmate Drew Kennedy claims that Wilkins’ lyrics can make even the strongest man’s knees buckle. (waltwilkins.com) Drew Kennedy. Drew Kennedy was raised on the east coast but moved to Texas as soon as he became aware of the music here. For his songs, he draws from Texas legends and the landscape of the state to create his memorable compositions. His writing is appreciated by artists and fans alike. (drewkennedymusic. com)

Josh Grider. A Texan by way of New Mexico, Josh Grider’s songwriting is characterized by meaningful lyrics and catchy tunes delivered in a rich, resonating voice that sounds like the West. While Grider is an accomplished solo artist, he is also half of the Topo Chico Cowboys, with his friend, Drew Kennedy. (joshgrider. com) Tickets for Tuesday and Wednesday performances are $60 for each night and are available at starsoverwimberley. org; visitwimberleyTx. org; wimberleyarts. org, and wimberleyplayers. org. A dinner break between performances with a box lunch is included in the ticket price for each evening. The Wimberley Playhouse is located at 450 Old Kyle Road.