Conlee the crowd pleaser

By Michael Butler

The "Common Man" arrived at Tallassee High School in his big bus that was noticeably larger than those yellow ones exiting the campus at 3:15 on Friday afternoon. Country music legend John Conlee performed before a packed auditorium later that evening.

Hundreds watched the show. Dozens purchased VIP passes to meet and greet with Conlee prior to the concert. Tallassee head football coach and athletic director Mike Battles was among the Conlee fans in attendance as was Tallassee mayor Johnny Hammock, who made it back to his alma mater, "The Old School."

Sunny Sweeney, a country music artist herself, was recognized by Conlee as one of the specatators in the crowd.

The crowd settling in prior to the show

In addition to "Friday Night Blues" - fittingly, Conlee donned his "Rose Colored Glasses" to belt out his signature tune. The cool shades which were purchased by many of the concert goers with CDs featuring Conlee's many hits.

The 90-minute program included an impressive jam session by the John Conlee Band, a Q&A with fans and a segment when members of the audience walked up to the stage to donate to the "Wounded Warriors Project."

Overall, Conlee was a crowd pleaser. Fans were impressed with his versatility on gospel standards, "He Touched Me" and "Amazing Grace."

Doug Deal wrote on Facebook, "We really loved the show. When you end the show with "Amazing Grace," you know you're at the right place. Wonderful performance by John and his fantastic band."

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