Keeping the swing alive: The stories behind the music

Jody Nix and the Texas
THE KING OF WESTERN SWING The original Bob Wills and His Playboys pioneered Western Swing by blending country fiddle music with jazz, blues, and big band influences. The foundational lineup featured vocalist Tommy Duncan, fiddlers, and specialized in a high-energy, danceable sound.
THE KING OF WESTERN SWING The original Bob Wills and His Playboys pioneered Western Swing by blending country fiddle music with jazz, blues, and big band influences. The foundational lineup featured vocalist Tommy Duncan, fiddlers, and specialized in a high-energy, danceable sound.

COMING UP: FULL GUIDE TO BOB WILLS DAY IN OUR APRIL 24 ISSUE

COURTESY PHOTOS

While many of the bands performing at Bob Wills Day are perennial favorites and familiar to longtime fans, new generations arrive at the event each year to discover these artists anew. Caprock Courier contributor— and Turkey resident—Deynara Lane unpacks some of the backstory for our readers. —THE EDITORS Hedley performs in…