Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012 – Day Seven
Who’s ready for the return of The Mavericks? Having performed at the Minnesota State Fair back in 1995, and taking a long hiatus, this favorite band from the ‘90s is back on the country scene. With two special performances at this year’s fair – Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 29 and 30 at 8:30 p.m. each night as part of the Leinie Lodge Bandshell Tonight series – this is one of the most-anticipated shows of the year at the Great Minnesota Get together.
The debut album self titled “The Mavericks” came in 1991, and they later signed on with the music label MCA Nashville. Quickly after this came their second debut album titled “From Hell to Paradise,” and this became their first major label release in 1992. Known for their relatable lyrics, The Mavericks were a band for the everyman, sorting out real life problems for real life people to fantastically original rhythms. They went on to record six studio albums between 1991 and 2003, leaving their mark on the country music genre. Top hits include “All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down,” “O What a Thrill,” “There Goes My Heart,” and “What a Crying Shame.”
More country music at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell can be found with two FREE performances from Mandy Barnett (3:30 and 4:45 p.m.). A frequent Grand 
Ole Opry performer, and also known for her role portraying Patsy Cline, Barnett is a native of Crossville, TN. She started singing at five years-old and has been singing since. As a teenager, Mandy starred as country music legend Patsy Cline in the stage show “Always . . . Patsy Cline” at the celebrated Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. In addition to her own albums, Mandy has been featured on movie soundtracks, including “A Walk On the Moon,” “Traveller,” “Space Cowboys,” “Election,” “Drop Dead Gorgeous,” and “Crazy.”
Also to watch for Wednesday:
• Greene and Hurst will be rocking country-style in the Gardens from 7 to 11 p.m. G&H hit the country music scene in October 2011 and is a little bit of rock n roll and a whole lot of country.
• Want to hear some banjo in anticipation of Rascal Flatts Thursday night? Catch The Banjo Boys on the Rambling Senior Center Stage at 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m.
• Monroe Crossing is another one to see Wednesday, with two performances on the Heritage Square Stage (6:30 and 7:$5 p.m.) Named in honor of Bill Monroe, “The Father of Bluegrass Music,” Monroe Crossing dazzles audiences with an electrifying blend of
classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, and heartfelt originals. Their airtight harmonies, razor sharp arrangements, and on-stage rapport make them audience favorites across the United States and Canada. Monroe Crossing has recorded 12 CDs and one DVD to date, their latest being the well-reviewed album “Joy Joy Joy,” showcasing the band’s originality and reverence for the bluegrass tradition.
• The 40th annual Minnesota State Fair amateur talent contest semifinals will take place at 6 p.m. on the Leinie Lodge Bandshell stage.
• Sourdough Slim with Robert Armstrong at the Heritage Square Stage at 2, 3, and 4 p.m. One of the most original and beloved Western entertainers of our time, Sourdough Slim is a hoot to say the least. The moment this award winning Western showman steps into the spotlight, it’s apparent to everyone that they’re in for a rollicking good time.
Also, don’t forget to stop by your favorite country radio station booths at the fair – K102 is located on Nelson Street (O26 on your official Minnesota State Fair map), and BUZ’N Country is located on Judson Avenue (V30 on your official Minnesota State Fair map). Both radio stations will be doing prize giveaways, contests, and broadcasting live from the fair! Stop by and see your favorite radio personalities and try to win some cool country gear!
STATE FAIR TRIVIA: Each day in this update, we will be doing state fair country trivia! The person who gets the most correct answers over the course of the fair will receive a prize from Minnesotacountry.com. Submit your answer via e-mail to info@minnesotacountry.com and we’ll announce the winner after the fair!
TODAY’S QUESTION: Opening for Rascal Flatts this year tomorrow night at the Minnesota State Fair, who did the Eli Young Band open for in 2009?
YESTERDAY’S ANSWER: JT Hodges performed last year with Eric Church and Toby Keith.
If you have some additional tips on keeping it country at the fair, e-mail them to info@minnesotacountry.com and we will be happy to pass them along to our fans.
Ryan Gueningsman is at ryan.gueningsman@minnesotacountry.com or can be found on Facebook.