Festivals in Slovakia and Czech (Part 2)

In previous post I wrote about country festivals in Slovakia. In this post, I´d like to introduce you next festivals in Slovakia.

In the end I bring you calendar of must known country and folk festivals in Slovakia, together with dates, places and links on their websites.


DOBROFEST

This festival is the oldest fest in Slovakia. The first time we could visit it in 1992 (that's means this fest is older than Slovakia, because Slovak Republic was established in 1.1. 1993, when Czechoslovakia was divided).

This festival is devoted to memory of John Dopyer (1893-1988). He was born in Trnava, Slovakia, but in youth (1908) he immigrated to US. He invented resophonic or resonator guitar – DOBRO. There were many famous dobro players to pay a tribute to his memory, such as music band Blue Highway (US), Jerry Douglas (US), Bob Brozman(US), Rob Ickes(US), Randy Kohrs(US), Peter Rowan(US), Mike Auldridge(US), trio Cox(US), Clifford & Bartley (US), Zubot & Dawson (Canada), Dave Peabody (GB), Papa George (GB), Gypsy Dave Smith (Australia), Ken Emerson (Havai) and many others from continental Europe (Germany, France, Italy, Netherland, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, Polland, Hungary, Czech Bulgary and Slovakia of course).

Dobro or resophonic guitar – the first time dobro was found in 20-tieth of last century in US.

Many people there still think that this instrument is original American public instrument. From US Dobro came abroad and extremely changed sound of the popular music.


FOLKOVANIE POD SKALKOU

In the last weekend of July, go to the XII year of Country and Folk Fest There will be in Liptovský Hrádok. It's small town in the north part of Slovakia There is Aqua Park near, you can go to relax there and spend nice hours in the warm water. Or visit High Tatras, which are also near).

In this festival singers or bands (country, folk, bluegrass or some similar styles) can come to play and introduce their own production.


FOLKOVANIE S ČERNOU HOROU

In the same time you can be also in the other action. Also in Liptovský Hrádok.


BLUEGRASS FEST

Bluegrass came from US. It was created to mix different music styles, which immigrants brought with themselves to new land. Characteristic instruments are banjo, mandolin, violin, guitar, contrabass, dobro. Last year there was the famous American bluegrass lady Claire Lynch (USA). She opened the festival.


FEST DOBRÉ BOHUNICE

Festival of a small music forms. Last year there were many guests from more than 12 countries (3 continents).

The main target of this fest is support of Slovak bands.


BAŽANT POHODA

This isn't country or folk festival, but it's very famous and popular fest. I could say POHODA is the largest festival in Slovakia. Larger than Country Lodenica.

Calendar of some festivals in Slovakia:

Name	Date	Place
Wilsonic	June, 6. 2008	Bratislava
Bluegrassfest	June, 10. - 11. 2008	Bratislava
Junifest	June, 13. – 22. 2008	Bratislava
Streetfest	June, 20. - 21. 2008	Malacky
Truck Country	June, 20. – 22. 2008	Piešťany
Fajn Fest	June, 22. 2008	Bratislava
Guitarfest	June, 23. - 28. 2008	Bratislava
Country Mlyn	June, 26. – 28. 2008	Malacky
Sigord 2007	June, 22.- 23. 2008	Prešov
Radimovksá Šopa	June, 22. - 24. 2008	Radimov
Dobrofest	June, 26. - 28. 2008	Trnava
Topvar Rock Fest	June, 27. - 28. 2008	Zelená Voda, Nové Mesto nad Váhom
Festival Revište	June, 27. - 28. 2008	Žarnovica
Hodokvas	July, 4. - 5. 2008	Piešťany
Country Stopa	July, 11. - 12. 2008	Dudince
Pohoda	July, 18. - 19. 2008	Trenčín
Drotária Fest	July, 20. - 22. 2008	Turzovka
Fest Dobré Bohunice	July, 25. – 27. 2008	Jaslovské Bohunice
Folkovanie pod Skalkou	July, 25. – 26. 2008	Liptovský Hrádok
Folkovanie s Černou Horou	July, 25. – 26. 2008	Liptovský Hrádok
Žákovic Open	July, 25. - 26. 2008	Turčianske Bohuslavice
Country Oravice	July, 19. 2008	Tvrdošín
Folk&Music Fest	July, 31. - August, 02.2008	Banská Štiavnica
Rača Fest	August, 8. - 9. 2008	Bratislava
Country Fest Rozmarín	August, 8.-9. 2008	Terchová, Žilina
Červeník	August, 8. - 10. 2008	Červeník, Leopoldov
Stupavský Širák	August 24. - 25. 2008	Stupava
Lodenica	August, 28. – 30. 2008	Piešťany
Autoslide	January, 4, 2009	Žarnovica
Bluessový Ostrov		Žarnovica
Ropucha		Púchov

Festivals in Slovakia and Czech (Part 1)

     Maybe festivals here in Slovakia aren't as huge as in US, but you can also feel great atmosphere there. Main season of festival starts in April and the end is usually on the last August weekend. The weather comes better, more sun is shinning and it's right decision build one's tent. Here in Slovakia people don't interest to country style of life as much as in Czech republic, but it doesn't matter, the atmosphere of each festivals is great.

Here are the best known festivals:

STUPAVSKÝ ŠIRÁK

This action is more folk than country festival. It's in Stupava, small town near of Bratislava (about 20 km far). Usually it's organized in the area of amphitheatre. There isn't so much place for tents, but many people sleep under stars. This festival lasts 2 days.
It was my first country festival, that I have ever visited. I was there twice, but now I prefer Country Lodenica. Maybe because Lodenica is more open. There is more place, more artists, more.... I don't know how to explain it. I know this will be bad comparison but try to compare the Woodstock festival with some local fest. I think I'm out with this comparison, however is it relevant distraction between these festivals.


COUNTRY MLYN

Small, but well-known festival in the car camping, only 30 km far from Bratislava, just on highway from Bratislava to Prague. I have to admit, I have never been there. I know, it's not far, but ... What can I say on my defense? I want to go there more times, but the program wasn't enough attractive for me. Now it's better and maybe this year I'll go to visit it. It's traditional country music festival, which is usually in the last weekend of June.

This year there will be also Indian’s village. Its purpose is to show culture of prairie’s Indians and objects, that were necessary for their everyday life, such as wearing, ornaments, utility, musical instruments and many others.
Children can try shooting from bow, throwing of tomahawk or javelin or horse riding. Also children can use their fantasy and make some necklaces from leather with Indian motives, face painting, etc.


COUNTRY LODENICA

It's the biggest country, folk and tramp festival here, in Slovakia. This festival usually finished summer season. Every year this festival is in the last weekend of August. In Piešťany (town about 80 km far from Bratislava - the capital city of Slovakia). In the title of this festival is Lodenica and that's right. This festival is in the shipyard and car camp; always it lasts for 3 days.

This year it will be 10 year anniversary. During this time festival became the most popular in all middle Europe. You can meet there people of all ages. Besides music, you can find there children town, face painting, inflatable attractions, many competitions, modeling from clay, horse riding, children dance school, beach volley, trips to countryside, puppet show, etc.

As I wrote above, the festival is in Piešťany's shipyard and that's why there should have enough place. Maybe, but in the last August weekend, you will not be able to find none, especially, if you'll come at the evening. During day the forest of tent grows up, some small, some huge, some for whole music bands. Also scene for all artists show is prepared. During all three days there are many artists from Slovakia and also from Czech Republic. (Czech Republic has many famous country and folk singers, that style is more preferred in that country than in Slovakia. There is a tradition to go on water as waterman, or wander in the nature. Czechs are usually looking for adventures and many of them don't accept instructions or restrictions and because of that many of them lost their life.)

It is fact, that in Czech Republic is more folk and country interprets and bands than in Slovakia and they are more known and more popular like Slovak interprets.

In Country Lodenica you can find well known and also less known bands. The program is usually from 4 PM to 3 AM, but people spend more time in the huge tents (kiosks). Why? There are a lot of players on guitars and on other instruments and they play amount of the most popular and well known country and folk songs. Somebody comes on Lodenica only to meet friends, to sing in the tents and doesn't matter about official program on the scene. It's typical public meeting, with very interesting and pleasant atmosphere. I like it so much.

Every year I am looking forward for this action. There I also met a band Jackpot first time. It is small music band; its members are boys about 30 years old. All of them live in Bratislava or in small villages around the town.


TRUCK COUNTRY

If you will to stay in Piešťany longer time (or if you will travel around Slovakia), you can visit also Truck Country.

It's meeting of trucks. It isn't celebration only for trucks lovers, but also all motorist's community. They could meet together and spent a nice weekend with fine music. Truck Country offers many attractions, as competition of trucks, competition of drive ability, Miss body painting, Miss wet T-shirt, dance bands, inflatable attractions, electric cars, four wheel cars, stunt men, many adrenalin shows and etc. They don't forget children. There is Entertainment Town carnival for them.

Last year there were about 600 truck drivers from 6 countries and thousands viewers. And where is it? In Piešťany, on the airport.

History of Country Music

Country music and country style came from North America. It developed step by step from 18-th century to present day. This type of music consists of several styles, such blues, rock, traditional, folk, etc.

All country music is something like conglomerate of Irish, English, German, French, Spanish, and other language's versions of songs.

People from all these nations migrated to US from their own Europe countries, to find better life. Their first station was in New Island in New York, where was gate to young US. From there they traveled to many towns on the Atlantic coast from North to South. Some of them decided to go to West, but it was so dangerous. There was Terra Incognita. Many of them paid for this decision with theirs own lives. Even though, the land step by step opened them. Suddenly, they found new open areas for their cattle, for their dreams. Some of them had found fortune (gold, silver, oil, etc) there.

They all were immigrants, who were advancing on migrant's way from East to West and were looking for some free lands for them, to start a new life. These migrants brought their traditions, and of course, their own visions.

But life was hard and there wasn't so much time to stay or to relax. The men, who traveled there, had to be tough as a brick. There wasn't place for sickliness. Law was on faster man's side.

There were many people, who wanted to be rich without work. Many of them owned quick guns.

And don't forget Indians. They were also terror to travelers. On the other side, the white outlanders required their soil, and embossed them to wild areas. Also they had broken faith with Indians and failed agreements. Indians badly tolerated these regulations and whereupon there were burning farms, killing men. There were a several bigger and little Indian rebellions (Geronimo, Little Big Horn, etc.). It's possible to say, that at last, both sides found out common language, although both sides indeed lost too much.

The men, who worked hard on the open air, at the evening sat near the fire, ate, drunk and relaxed. Someone played on guitar, others sang. These songs went from site to site, from one fire to another (how the men, especially cowboys, transferred through US West).

At the end, I want only tell you, every day was the battle of survival there. In this atmosphere country was born. Songs help people to survive, made a good time and also gave some messages.

I'm sure, you know no one song about hard working men, about crying cowboy, when he lost his friend (other cowboy, horse, etc) or love, songs about battles, where many men lost their life, about women who waited their never returning boys. Many song sing about bad men, which met their destiny. I can remind you songs such as Ballad of Boot Hill, Five Red Roses, Yellow Flower, Tennessee Waltz, Last Wish, Blizzard, Tom Dooley, etc. Don't think there are only songs about bad or sad things. Some of them are funny; some are about migrant's way, some about love,...

Bee Gees - The Legendary Band (Part 3)

     80's brought the album Living Eyes and platinum in the U.S. for soundtrack of Saturday Night Fever. This period also brought solo albums of Barry and Robin Gibb.In 1987 they produced the album E.S.P., which sold over 3 millions copies.
     This time brought them also tragedy, on March 10, in 1988 brother Andy Gibb died at the age 30 (result : an inflammation of the heart muscle due to a recent viral infection). Andy used drugs and alcohol and this combination made his heart more susceptible to the ailment. The Bee Gees recorded the album One With Song, which was dedicated to Andy (Wish You Were Here). This song is in repertoires of many solo singers and also more music bands.

     In the end of 80's, they went to European tour. After returning they had problems. Barry had problems with his back and Maurice drinking problem. Both of these battles were successfully won. In the end of 1997 they prepared a live concert in Las Vegas with name One Night Only. CD from that was sold over 5 million copies. This concert open the world tour, including concerts at London and Sydney. The tour was closed on December 31, 1999.
     In 2001 they recorded their the last album This Is Where I Came In. You can find there only songs, which were composing by Gibbs together. Their last public live show was Live By Request.
     In 2003 there was repeat tragedy in their family, they lost one of the brothers. Now that was Maurice. (he died on January 12, 2003 – strangulated intestine). The surviving brothers decided to leave the name The Bee Gees (for all time this name will represent only these three brothers – Robin, Maurice, Barry) and work on solo albums.
     In 2004 Robin traveled on his solo tour in Germany, Russia and Asia.
     The Bee Gees didn't concentrate only of their own concert, but also contribute to the Music of UNICEF Concert and other charity concerts. In the beginning of next year (January 2005), the brothers Barry and Robin recorded with some other artists album Grief Never Growns Old for Disasters Emergency Committee as official tsunami relief (Memory of victim in tsunami in Asia in the end of 2004).In 2006 brothers presented on recital for a Miami Charity (benefit of Diabetes Research Institute - the first public presentation after Maurice death).

     The Bee Gees were on of the most popular and also one of the most successful music band in the world. They sold over 225 millions records, their songs were covered by many singers and bands such as Elvis Presley, Eric Clapton, Elton John, Celine Dion, Ret Hot Chili Pepers, etc. During their career, they also had written many song for many artists such as Kenny Rogers, Samantha Sang, Barbara Streisand, Diana Ross, Dionne Warwick, Dolly Parton, etc.
     The Bee Gees income to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and into Vocal Group Hall of Fame and ARIA Hall of fame. During their existention they got many awards such as est Pop Performance by a Group, Album of the Year, Producer of the Year, Best Arrangement of Voices, Lifetime Achievement Award, Legend Award, etc.
     In 1999 The Post Office in the Isle of Man (where all brothers were born) presented set of six stamps with The Bee Gees.

     Present time: In the end for 2007, Moonlight Publications in Australia presented a new book. The name of its is Spin Dried. There are many new information about The Bee Gees. Robin was presented on German TV show and he attended in concert of Led Zeppelin in London. The band was honoured with a plaque in Brisbane's rock'n roll Walk of Frame. In the same time The Bee Gees were back on Billboard's Hot Dance Club Play for the first time in 28 years.
     Brothers wee interviewed at many radios and TV such as BBC, German TV, Channel 4 UK etc.
     In January, surviving brothers issued tribute song Stayin' Alive to their brother Maurice.
     On February had tribute band concert. In the same month, Barry recorded duet with Olivia Newton John for her new album. The Bee Gees came to the Playboy Hall of Fame.
     On March, 2008 - Robin Gibb performed at Dubai Jazz Festival.

Discography
1965 – The Bee Gees Sing and Play 14 Barry Gibb Songs
1966 – Spicks and Specks
1967 – Bee Gees 1st
1968 – Horizontal
1968 – Idea
1968 – Odessa
1970 – Cucumber Castle
1970 – 2 Years On
1971 – Trafalgar
1972 – To Whom It May Concern
1873 – Kife In a Tin Can
1974 – Mr. Natural
1975 – Main Course
1976 – Children of The Wold
1978 – Saturday Night Fever
1979 – Spirits Having Flown
1981 – Living Eyes
1987 – E.S.P.
1989 – One
1991 – High Civilization
1993 – Size Isn't Everything
1997 – Still Waters
2001 – This Is Where I Came In

Movie Music:
1971 – Melody
1977 – Saturday Night Fever
1978 – Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
1983 – Staying Alive

Compilations:
1969 – Best Of Bee Gees
1973 – Best Of Bee Gees, Volume 2
1979 – Bee Gees Greatest
1990 – Tales From The Brothers Gibb, A History In Song 1967-1990
1996 – The Very Best Of The Bee Gees
2001 – Their Greatest Hits, The Record
2004 – Number Ones
2005 – Love Songs
2006 – The Studio Albums 1967-1968

Life records:
1977 – Here At Last, Bee Gees Live
1998 – One Night Only

Past members of the band:
Barry Gibb – rhythm guitar
Robin Gibb – didn't play, but can paly piano, Cello, other instruments
Maurice Gibb – bass guitar, rhythm guitar, lead guitar, piano, organ, mellotron, electronic keyboards, synthesizers, drum tracks
Stephen Gibb – guitar (1998)
Colin Petersen – drums (1967 – 1969)
Vince Melouney — lead guitar (1967 – 1968)
Geoff Bridgeford — drums (1969 – 1972)
Alan Kendall — lead guitar (1971 – 1980, 1987 – 2001)
Dennis Bryon — drums (1974 – 1980)
Blue Weaver — keyboards (1975 – 1980)

Some artists who accompanied the band on their concerts or in studio
Carlos Alomar – guitar
Ray Barretto – bonga
Reb Beach – guitar
Tony Beard – drums
Michael Bennett – keyboards
Matt Bonelli – bass guitar
Tim Cansfield – guitar
David Foster – keyboards
Stephen Gibb – guitar
Reggie Griffin – guitar
Adrian Hales – drums
Steve Jordan – drums
Manu Katché – drums
Jim Keltner – drums
Robbie Kondor – keyboards
Rhett Lawrence – synthesizers
Mike McEvoy – keyboards/guitar
Marcus Miller – bass guitar
Tim Moore – keyboards
Nick Moroch – electric guitar
Russ Powell – bass guitar
Pino Palladino – bass guitar
George "Chocolate" Perry – bass guitar
Greg Phillinganes – keyboards
Steve Rucker – drums
Raphael Saadiq – bass guitar, guitar, programming drums, sing
Marc Schulman – guitar
Steve Skinner – synthesizers
Ben Stivers – keyboards
Michael Thompson – guitar
Peter-John Vettese – keyboards
Waddy Wachtel – guitar
Jeff Porcaro – drums

A Tale of the Bee Gees


Tribute to Maurice Wish You Were Here


Tragedy

Bee Gees - The Legendary Band (Part 2)

     The band started to work on the second album Horizontal, which repeated huge success of the first album. Such as single Massachsetts and also single World. The Bee Gees decided to prepare live concerts, TV shows as promo action for their album Horizontal.
     I can tell that year 1968 was year when The Bee Gees attacked the The American Top Ten (songs I've Gotta Get a Message To You, I Started a Joke, Words, Jumbo, The Singer Sang His Songs, Idea).
     Following tour to promote the album Idea, Vince Melouney left the band. Robin Gibb recorded album Robin's Reign. In the next year they began to record their concert album Masterpeace and double album Odessa. Many critics decided, that this is the best album of The Bee Gees from the 60's.
In 1969 Barry and Maurice recruited their sister Leslie to the band and The Bee gees continued.

     The first compilation became under the name Best of Bee Gees and stayed long time in both hitparade Top Ten (in the U.S. and UK too).
In 1971 it seemed like the band finished. Barry recorded the solo album I'll Kiss Your Memory (never saw official release). Maurice also recorded his solo album Railroad and play as actor in musical West End.
     In the end of the year 1970 the brothers reunited and brought many songs, which again climbed in hitparades (Lonely Days, To Whom It May Concern, How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?).
     During next years they recorded more albums such as Life In a Tin Can, Best ot Bee Gees - Volume 2, Mr. Natural but without strong success.
     At suggestion of Eric Clapton, the trio decided to relocated to America, to Miami, Florida (1975) There they recorded songs Jive Talkin, Nights on Broadway, LP Main Course, Children of The World, single You Should Be Dancing with new disco sound.
     In 1978 they recorded soundtrack for movie Saturday Night Fever and they received Award Grammy. This movie was the turning point of their career and the movie influenced more that one generation in the U.S. and also in the world. Their next three singles (How Deep Is Your Love, Stayin' Alive, Night Fever) were No1 in the U.S. and more countries on the world. Soundtrack Saturday Night Fever was the best selling album of all the time and movie had huge success.
     Barry wrote the title song for the movie Grease. (I watched this movie about 10 times – in three language versions).
     The Bee Gees repeated the success of The Beatles from the year 1964 (April), when their five songs were at the same time in the U.S. Top Ten.
     The expected great success of their movie Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band (1978) with The Bee Gees and Peter Frampton as stars didn't come. The movie had been inspirated by The Beatles album.
     Their younger brother Andy followed them in the music career and achieved success in U.S. charts with his first three singles.
     After success of Saturday Night Fever, followed the album Spirits Having Flown.

Saturday Night Fever


Grease


Stayin' Alive


How Deep Is Your Love

Bee Gees - The Legendary Band (Part 1)

     They don't play country, but as I wrote up, this band is one of my favourite. I remember that moment, when the first time I heard this band. It was song Massachussetts. It was and still is the perfect song. I like it very much. I heard it and from that time I looked for some recording of them. And I had success. I bought CD The Bee Gees – Turn Around, Look At Me. I listened it around and around. Maybe my family was able to start to hate it, but I hope that nothing's matter.
     During life, the person can change own music preferences, but The Bee Gees are classic and that's stay.

     The Bee Gees were band of three singing brothers Gibbs – Barry, Robin, Maurice. Together with ABBA, they are on of the most successful band in the last century.
     All of them were born in Douglas on Isle of Man, lived in England and Australia. Barry was born on September 1, 1946, the twins Robin and Maurice on December 22, 1949. Their parents returned to Manchester in England in 1950. In this town the brothers started to sing public. However they didn't stay there a long time. Already in 1958 they emigrated (with new brother Andy, who was born on March 5, 1958) to Queensland, Australia. Their first performing in front of public was also there. The name of band was Rattlesnakes, later Wee Johny Hayes & the Bluecats. The name Bee Gees was designed for them by DJ Bill Gates and means Brothers Gibb. With this name they became to knowledge of the community.
     From 1960 they worked on the Queensland coast. In 1963 they signed record deal with recording company Festival Records under the name Bee Gees, recorded the first album The Bee Gees Sing And Play 14 Barry Gibb Songs.
In 1966 the Gibb's family decided to return to England. They were afraid of it, but they had success again. In the next year their song Spickes And Specks had gone to No 1 in Australia.
     Their father Hugh Gibb sent their demos to Brian Epstein, who was the manager of The Beatles and also the manager of NEMS (British music store). Brian gave that demos to Robert Stigwood and the band singed a five years contract with recording studio Polydor.
     Their the first international album had huge promotion. They were proclaimed as The Most Significant New Talent Of 1967. Many of people started to compared them with The Beatles. (many of you will not agree with me, but in my opinion, The Bee Gees were better). Their British album New York Mining Disaster 1941 was played on radio in rotation with new album of The Beatles and this helped album to climb in hitparade TOP20 in UK and the U.S.. Their new single To Love Somebody climbed into hitparade again. This song was written originally for Otis Redding by Barry Gibb. Now it is in repertoire of many artists as I don't speak englishRod Stewart, Michael Bolton, The Animals, Janis Joplin etc.

Now The Bee Gees had these members:
Barry Gibb – rhythm guitar
Maurice Gibb – bass
Vince Melouney – lead guitar
Colin Petersen – drums

Massachusetts


Words


How Deep Is Your Love

Javory - Ulrychovi

     This band is legend of the folk music in Slovakia and Czech. The head protagonists are siblings – brother and sister (Peter and Hana Ulrych).

Peter Ulrych
     He was born in February 21, 1944 in Hradec Králové (Czech).After high school he studied air engineering on Military Academy. But he had never worked in this line of business. Immediately after graduation he became professional music player. During study he teach playing on piano, two years he studied music composition and play on contrabass.
     In 1961 he co-founded Divadlo bez hraníc (Theater without boundaries).
     In 1964 he came to rock band Vulkan and in 1967 to band Atlantis. There came also his sister Hana. With this band, they performed in theater Rokoko, in show Nepůjdem do kláštera. The greatest hit was song Nechoď do kláštera.
     Peter had tend to tacking folk and rock and this synthesis has been manifest during next years.
     In 1974 the band recorded album Nikola šuhaj loupežník. This successful album showed them their way in the future. Morava folk and public songs are the main repertory of the music band Javory. Peter is the manager, song writer and composer in the same person of this band.

Hana Ulrych
     She was born in March 31, 1949 in Liberec (Czech). From her youth she liked to sing. That's she was member of children choruses. With his brother Peter, she established Divadlo bez hraníc (Theater without boundaries). In 1964 she came to band Vulkan and after 3 years (1967) to Atlantis. She also performed with band Bluesmeni(Bluesmen).
     From 1968 she had solo career, in 1970 she cooperate with Dance Orchestra Czechoslovak Radio and with Orchestra of Gustav Brom.
     In 1971 she got Award Zlatá Bratislavská Lýra (Gold Bratislava Lyre). In 1974 she recorded album Nikola šuhaj loupežník with her brother Peter.
     Hana is the woman with strong, lovely and very neat voice.

Javory
     The band was established in 1974 by Peter and Hana Ulrych.

Actual members:
Peter Ulrych – singer, guitar
Hana Ulrych – singer
Dalibor Štrunc – cymbalo, singer
Kateřina Štruncová – violin, fipple flute, singer
Peter Surý – contrabass, singer

Discography:
LP 13 HP - 1970
LP Hej dámy, děti a páni - 1972
LP Nikola šuhaj loupežník - 1974
LP Meč a přeslice - 1975
LP Ententýny - 1978
LP Zpívání - 1982
LP Zpívání při vínečku - 1983
LP Bylinky - 1985
LP Příběh - 1987
LP Tichý hlas - 1988
LP Odyssea - 1990
CD Bílá místa - 1993
CD To nejlepší s Javory - 1994
CD O naději - 1997
CD The best of, ze straých LP - 1998
CD Pokoj lidem dobré vůle - 1998
CDSeď tiše a poslouchej - 1999
CD Malé zrnko písku - 1999
CD Koločava - 2002
VD Písně - 2005
CD Stromy, voda, tráva - 2006

Jízda králů


Nechoď do kláštera


Za vodou, za horou


Modlitba

Kenny Rogers

     Do you remember New Christy Minstrels? If no, try to visit their page in this blog. One of the past members was Kenny Rogers.

     He was born in Houston (Texas, US) in August 21, 1938. His full name is Kenneth Donald Rogers. He grown up as the fourth child of the seven siblings in the poorest town district.
     As very young boy he started in music band Scholars. In 1958 they recorded pop hit That Crazy Feeling. He didn't finish to sing neither meanwhile studying on Houston University, also during his next job (he worked as member of advertising dept. of recording company).

     Real music career began with his membership in jazz trio of Bobby Doyle (The Bobby Doyle Three), where he played on bass. After his membership in vocal quartet Kirby Stone Four, he joined in music band New Christy Minstrels. In 1967, when the group finished its activity, established band First Edition (with few past members of New Christy Minstrels as Mike Settle, Terry Williams, Thelma Lou Camacho, Terry Jones). In the next years he recorded more albums as Just Dropped in (To See What Condition My Condition Was In – 1968), very famous song Ruby, Don't Take Your Love To Town (about soldier's returning from Korea war – 1969. This song had been till Top 10. This is the first Kenny Rogers's song which I had been listened.), Reuben James - 1969, Something's Burning – 1970 or Heed The Call – 1970. In the end of 1972, the band had TV show, but popularity went already down. That's why they stopped activity.
     It was that moment, when Kenny decided to set himself on self feet and started his solo career. He signed exclusive contract with company United Artist (1975). In the moment then he recorded his first country album You Lifted Me. It was his debut album and in the beginning of 1976 it became number one in hit parade. But he started to famous with the single Lucille from 1977. This album was on the top of country and also pop hit parade (number one in Hot Country, number five in Pop). They sold about five million copies. This recording got award Album of the Year and brought to Kenny the first Grammy. He was also vote award The Favourite Singer of All Time.
     From this moment Kenny started to bring one hit after another and also other interesting awards in many different categories (he has received many awards for his music and charity work, included Grammys, AMAs, ACMs, CMAs). He freely traversed interim style, he showed that country star can have success also in pop scene.
     He had some famous duets with famous singers as Kim Carnes (I don't Fall in Love With a Dreamer), Sheena Easton (We've Got Tonight), Dottie West (Every Time Two Fools Collide, AnyoneWho Isn't Me Tonight, What Are We Doin' in Love), etc.. He came to TV shows, acted in few movies (Six Pack, The Gambler, Christms in America, Covard of the County, ...).
     In the end of 1983 he finished cooperation with United Artist and signed new contract with RCA company. From this time I can reflect song Islands In The Stream with Dolly Parton (song was composed by Bee Gees originally for Diana Ross and immediately became hit), Real Love, Crazy, Morning Mesire, .....
     In 1989 he choose recording company again, now it is Reprise Records, where he recorded his the most famous hit Love Is Strange (again duet with Dolly Parton).
     In the end of 80-teen and in the beginning of 90-teen he was busy by charity work, concerts and his own restaurants with fast food Kenny Rogers's Roasters. Also he wrote two books (Kenny Roger's America, Kenny Rogers: Your Friends and mine).
     He established recording studio Dreamcatcher in 1998 and produced Christmas album Christmas From The Heart.
In the last time, his succes was album The Greatest.
     In the 21st century, Kenny is back with new single.(Buy Me a Rose). He doesn't record any album, but he has success with greatest hit packages. He income to American Country Charts.

     From his private live: Kenny has been married five times. Now his current wife is Wande Miller. He has one daughter and four sons.

Kenny Rogers Discography:
1967 The First Edition
1969 Ruby Don't Take Your Love to Town...
1970 Fools
1970 Something's Burning
1971 Tell It All Brother
1971 Transition
1971 Kenny Rogers and the First Edition Greatest.
1972 Backroads Jolly Roger
1972 Planet Texas
1972 The Ballad of Calico
1973 Monument - Jolly Rogers
1973 Star Collection WEA
1974 Rollin Jolly Rogers
1976 Love Lifted Me EMI America
1977 Daytime Friends EMI America
1977 Kenny Rogers United Artists
1978 Love or Something Like It United Artists
1978 The Gambler EMI America
1978 Every Time Two Fools Collide United Artists
1978 Ten Years of Gold EMI Ameri
1979 Kenny Razor & Tieca
1979 Singles Album United Artists
1979 Classics United Artists
1979 Classics EMI
1980 Greatest Hits Evergreen
1980 Greatest Hits EMI America
1980 Greatest Hits SND
1980 Gideon United Artists
1980 Shine Out Radar
1981 Christmas EMI America
1981 Lady Liberty
1981 Ruby MFP
1981 Share Your Love Razor & Tie
1982 Love Will Turn You Around EMI America
1983 We've Got Tonight Razor & Tie
1983 Eyes That See in the Dark RCA
1983 20 Greatest Hits [EMI America] EMI America
1984 The Best of Kenny Rogers Breakaway
1984 Duets Capitol
1984 What About Me RCA
1984 Once upon a Christmas RCA
1985 Heart of the Matter RCA
1985 Love Is What We Make It Liberty
1986 Short Stories Liberty
1986 They Don't Make Them Like They Used To RCA
1986 15 Greatest Hits MCA
1987 25 Greatest Hits EMI America
1987 I Prefer the Moonlight RCA
1989 Christmas in America Reprise
1989 Something Inside So Strong Reprise
1989 Kenny Rogers with Kim Carnes Capitol
1989 Breakout Pair
1989 Lucille & Other Classic Pair
1989 All Time Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 Universal
1990 Greatest Hits RCA
1990 Featuring the Songs of Kenny Rogers & First... Universal
1990 20 Great Years Reprise
1990 Greatest Country Hits Curb
1990 At Their Best Hollywood
1990 Love Is Strange Reprise
1991 Some Prisons Don't Have Warner
1991 Back Home Again Reprise
1991 The Best of Kenny Rogers & the First Edition... Huub
1991 The Very Best Quicksilver
1991 Love Songs Universal
1992 The Best of Kenny Rogers CEMA
1992 All Time Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 Universal
1992 Lucille Special Music
1992 Heart to Heart RCA
1993 If Only My Heart Had a Voice Warner
1993 Every Time Two Fools Collide: The Best of... EMI-Capitol
1994 20 Greatest Hits Big Country
1994 Early Years Essex
1994 Timepiece 143/Atlantic
1995 Ultimate Bransounds
1995 Christmas Wishes Cema Special
1995 Greatest Hits Prime Cuts
1995 Anthology Alex
1995 The Best of Kenny Rogers Capitol
1996 Kenny Rogers Eclipse Music
1996 Golden Hits Intercontinent
1996 Greatest Hits Hip-O
1996 The Gift Magnatone
1997 Across My Heart Magnatone
1997 Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 Public Music
1997 Decade of Hits Warner
1997 20 Golden Hits Galaxy
1997 Songs You Know By Heart Beacon
1997 Revue Collection Revue
1997 King of Country Javelin
1997 For the Good Times [SMS] Planet
1998 Original Hits Master Tone
1998 Good Time Liberator Mastertone
1998 With Love Madacy
1998 Original Gold Disky x
1998 Original Gold Disc One Disky
1998 Original Gold Disc Two Disky
1998 Through the Years [Disc #1] BX
1998 Through the Years [Disc #2] BX
1998 Through the Years [Disc #3] BX
1998 The Love Collection [Excelsior] Excelsior
1998 20 Great Love Songs Disky
1998 Branson City Limits [live] Unison
1998 Christmas from the Heart Dreamcatcher
1999 She Rides Wild Horses Dream Catcher
1999 For the Good Times Pegasus
1999 Through the Years: A Retrospective Capitol x
1999 A&E Biography [live] Capitol
1999 Love Collection Madacy
1999 Kenny Rogers [Classic World] Liberty
1999 Classic Love Songs Crimson
1999 Through the Years Golden Sounds x
1999 Islands in the Stream: The Greatest Hits... Music Club
1999 Love Songs [Madacy Box] Madacy x
1999 All the Hits & All New Love EMI
1999 Endless Love Empire Music
1999 Simply the Best Disky
1999 Love Songs [Madacy Box Disc 3] Madacy
1999 Love Songs [Madacy Box Disc 2] Madacy
1999 Love Songs [Madacy Box Disc 1] Madacy
2000 First Hits Legacy
2000 Solid Gold Cleopatra
2000 Forever Gold St. Clair
2000 Always in Love Madacy
2000 Hearts on Fire Madacy
2000 Heart to Heart Madacy
2000 Kenny Rogers & Friends Madacy
2000 Classics from the Heart Madacy
2000 Collector's Edition [Two Disc] Madacy
2000 Collector's Edition [Single Disc] Madacy
2000 Always & Forever Madacy
2000 The Gold Collection Fine Tune
2000 The Best of Love [Box] Madacy x
2000 Classic Country Direct Source
2000 Dueling Country Direct Source
2000 Platinum Series D-3
2000 Good Old Country St. Clair
2000 With Love [2000] Madacy
2000 The Best of Kenny Rogers and the First... Edeltone
2000 Superstar Dressed to
2000 Love Songs, Vol. 2 Capitol
2000 The Love Collection [2000 Madacy Box] Madacy x
2000 Christmas Greetings Capitol
2000 Christmas Wishes from Kenny Rogers Delta
2000 There You Go Again Dream Catcher
2001 The Way It Used to Be Direct Source
2001 A&E Live by Request Dreamcatcher
2001 Sing You a Sad Song TKO Magnum
2001 Greatest Country Hits, Vol. 2 Curb
2001 Greatest Country Hits, Vol. 3 Curb
2001 For the Good Times Direct Source
2001 Signature Series Direct Source
2001 Best Inspirational Songs Curb
2001 The Best of Kenny Rogers Madacy
2001 Kenny Rogers LaserLight
2001 Songs of Love Madacy
2001 Ten Years of Gold Madacy
2001 The Gambler Dreamcatcher
2001 Always Leaving Starburst
2001 Love Songs Capitol
2001 Love Songs Madacy
2001 Collection Madacy x
2002 For the Good Times Town Sound
2002 The Gambler Originals
2002 The Heart of a Legend Madacy
2002 Kenny Rogers Columbia River
2002 Country Classics
2002 Ruby Don't Take Your Love to Town. Prestige Elite
2002 Calico Silver
2003 Heart of the Matter Castle
2003 Back to the Well Import
HBO Presents Kenny Rogers Liberty
One Night Reprise
The Best of Kenny Rogers Collectables
Greatest Hits Reprise
The Best of Kenny Rogers & the First Edition... K-Tel
20 Great Hits Hollywood
Gift Set EMI America
The Best of Kenny Rogers & First Edition,... Satellite
Hits & Pieces MCA
60's Revisited MCA
Sweet Music Man CEMA

Kenny Rogers and the First Edition - Ruby


Lucille


Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton - Islands in the stream


Kenny Rogers & Sheena Easton We've Got Tonight

Party Cake

     Country and folk doesn't mean only music. It's also clothing and cooking. Yes, you read it right. Cooking. Oh, don't switch off. It doesn't mean, that now I will write only about cooking. Please, excuse me.
     Ok, keep your caps, we start. And what will we cook? What do you say something sweet: Cake is perfect choice. I like to cook cake. It doesn't mean I like to eat that. No, I like to cook it. And it isn't bad, just vice-versa, it's tasty.
     Right, right. I'm going to start.

Nut cake (for Richard's birthday in this year) :

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs white
• 20 decagrams sugar
• 20 decagrams assorted flour
• ½ baking powder
• 1 spoon of hot water
• 1 vanilla sugar
• snow from eggs white
• salt
• 2 spoons cocoa (I use it, but it isn't necessary)

Procedure:
     Mix eggs white with sugar, add hot water. All substance will be puffy. I use mixer and during mix I prepare other ingredients – flour (I prefer 10 decagramme of smooth flour and 10 decagram wholemeal), add baking.powder and cocoa.
     I mix it separate and than I add it to eggs white with sugar. Don't forget it. In the end, mix cold eggs white with a bit salt and add to other ingredients. My advice: Use so many spoons of cold water like many eggs white.
     I bake it on 180 degree of Celsius 45 minutes.

Stuffing cake (it's your decision – I prepared nut stuff.)

Ingredients:

• 12 decagrams of nuts
• 10 decagrams powdery sugar
• 1 deciliter of hot milk
• 1 spoon of rum
• 1 vanilla sugar
• 18 decagrams of butter

Procedure:

     Grind nuts with sugar, add hot milk and vanilla sugar, mix together. If you'll prepare it for adults, use rum(only few spoons). In this case, forget milk. Or brandy, whisky or other alcohol drink. It will be stronger. :o))
     I prepared it for children, that's why I leave alcohol and .I used more milk. In the end add butter and mix and mix and mix.

     I hope I don't need to explain how to put this stuff in the cake. Ok, OK, I explain it. Cut the cake on horisoltal line. Put the stuff on the cake and decorate it by nut and chocolate.

     And voilá, cake is in the world. And it's delicious, believe me.

Greenhorns

     What that name means? I know, you smile now, you can explain it. Of course, I know meaning of it too. In our language it's something like green ear, little pheasant, beginner, amateur. Stop, stop, stop. If you listen them, you should change your opinion. Maybe they are everything, but not amateurs – greenhorns.
     Greenhorns (in our language Zelenáči) are czech country music group, with bluegrass and country base. The group was established in 1965. (many famous country groups in Czechoslovakia were established during 60 and 70-teen years of last century – see Rangers, Taxmeni).

     This country group was established in 1965 in Prague. All members were friend from hiking settlement (tramp camp) Hejkalů.

The basic arrangement:
Jan Vyčítal – sing, 12 strings guitar
Josef Šimek – mandolin
Marko Čermák – 5 strings banjo
Petr Bryndáč – violin
Jiří Fallada – contrabass

     In October of the same year, group had own first show in club Olympic (Jiří Grossmann invited them.) but this show was unsuccessful. Maybe that's why it was ortodox beat club. But never mind. After one month Greenhorns had huge success in competition of tramp's groups.
     In 1967 the group won Porta and they recorded their the first single. In 1968 they had tour in Germany. Thanks to political situation, their visit was overextended. Greenhorns returned after two months and recorded album.
     The most important thing of their history (1969) was arrival of Mirek Hoffmann, Michal Tučný and Tomáš Linka. It was here, where Honza Vyčítal advised Michal Tučný to sing in Czech. It was Gold period of group.
     During 70-teen Greenhorns started to have a special liking more for country style.
     In 1972 some member (speaker Petr Novotný, Tomáš Linka and Michal Tučný) departed them and entried to BluegrassHoppers and changed the name to Fešáci.
     Every few years the group recorded album (Písně amerického Západu 1970, Písně větru z hor 1974, Silnice, řeky, tratě a stezky - 1976)
     Like Rangers, Greenhorns had to change their name to Zelenáči (it s' same name but in translation).
     In 1978 they played in movie Balada pro banditu (Ballad for Gunman).
     After 1989 they became to original name, but also to separate. Now, there are existing two groups - Greenhorns with Honza Vyčítal and Nový Zelenáči (New Greenhorns) with Mirek Hoffmann.

Actual members of Greenhorns :
Jan (Honza) Vyčítal (from 1965) – sing
Milan Černý (from 1996) – contrabass
Václav Šváb (from 1999) – drums
Eda Panschab (from 2002) – banjo
Medard Konopík (from 2006) – sing, guitar
Jiří Zima –(from 2006) – pedal-steel guitar
Honza "Freddy" Zubárik - sing, guitar

Actual members of New Greenhorns :
Mirek Hoffmann - sing
Milan Krbec - guitar
Franta Kacafírek - sing, violin
Jirka Drnec - guitar
Janda Hnyk - drums
Pavel Král - sing, mandolin, guitar

During the time, we could seen other members as :
Josef Šimek 1965 - 1980
Marko Čermák 1965 - 1988
Petr Bryndač 1965 - 1967, 1969, 1973 - 1980
Jiří Fallada 1965 - 1967
Karel Vágner 1967
Václav Češka 1968
Jan Jedlička 1968
Michal Tučný 1969 - 1974
Vladimír Štýbr 1969 - 1995
Josef Dobeš 1969 - 1974
Miroslav Hoffmann 1970 - 1990
Tomáš Linka 1970 - 1974, 1987 - 1995
Vít Tučný 1974 - 1986
Pavel Král 1974 - 1990
Jaroslav Hnyk 1974 - 1990
Zdeněk Kryštof 1976 - 1990
Miloslav Totter 1979 - 1980
Aleš Maudr 1980 - 1995
František Kacafírek 1981 - 1990
František Donáth 1990 - 1999
Petr Kocman 1995 - 2006
Jan Hromas 1995 - 1996
Ilja Herain 1995 - 2002
Miroslav Roček 1992 - 2002
David Babka 2002 – 2006

     Almost their songs became to traditional (Blízko Little Big Hornu, Když náš táta hrál, Na Vánoce ráno, Honzův song, Červená řeka, Battledress, Oranžový expres, Rovnou, tady rovnou, Tequila Sheila, Abilene, Dívka s vlasem medovým).
     Maybe the most popular (especially in Pils) is song To tenkrát v čtyřicátom pátom. This song is about end of the second war, US army in Pils, next political situation in Czechoslovakia (when comunists lied that Czechoslovakia was disengaged by CCCP's Army.). Many people, who were in revolt in the West (Britain, France, etc) were pilloried, lost their jobs, were locked up to prisons or also executed.

Discography
· Zlatá éra 1967 - 1974 (3CD) 2007 Supraphon
· Těm, kteří tu už nejsou 2005 Multisonic
· Rovnou, tady rovnou 2004 Universal music
· Honza Vyčítal a Greenhorns - Dalas! 2003 Universal (Venkow)
· 60 - Honza Vyčítal a Greenhorns 2002 Universal (Venkow)
· Když Pepa Šimek hrál 2001 Bonton
· Greenhorns 2000: Plav vocuď ty grázle 1999 Venkow
· Marko Čermák & Greenhorns - Banjo z Mlžných lesů 1998 Sony BMG Music
· Greenhorns - master serie 1998 Venkow
· Hlavou dolů 1996 Venkow
· 50x30 Let Greenhorns (1965-1995) 1995 Panton
· Potkal klokan klokana 1994 Venkow
· Country saloon 1992 Venkow
· Greenhorns ´93 1992 Venkow
· Zlatá éra 1991 Panton
· Čtvrtstoletí se Zelenáči 1991 Supraphon
· To tenkrát v čtyřicátom pátom 1991 Supraphon
· Zálesácká bowle 1988 Supraphon
· Mistr Čas 1986 Supraphon
· Galaportrét 1985 Panton
· Pod liščí skálou 1983 Supraphon
· Oheň z dříví eukalyptu 1982 Supraphon
· Řidič tvrdý chleba má 1979 Panton
· Silnice, řeky, tratě a stezky 1976 Panton
· Písně větru z hor 1974 Panton
· Hromskej den Zelenáčů (2LP) 1973 Panton
· Zelenáči - Greenhorns ´72 1972 Panton
· Greenhorns ´71 1971 Panton
· LP (special) 1970 Panton
· Písně amerického Západu 1970 Panton

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Zatracenej Život


Blízko Little Big Hornu


Oranžový Expres


Rovnou, tady Rovnou

The New Christy Minstrels

     This American country group looked like model acceptance folk music for many country groups in abroad. (Rangers, Greenhorns in Czechoslovakia, etc.)
     The history of Minstrels started in turning point 50-teen and 60-teen, when young guitarist and singer Randy Sparks established own music group. There was also his wife (Jackie Miller). In the 1961 the establishing was ended and group had 10 members (Randy Sparks, Jackie Miller, Nick Woods – The Kingston Trio, John Forsha, Karol Dugan, Jerry Yester – The Inn Group, Billy Cudmore, Terry Cudmore, Dolan Ellis, Art Podell – Greenwich Village duo Art&Paul).
The name of the group was derived from Christy's Minstrels, performing institution form the middle of 19-teen century. This institution was founded by Edwin Pearce Christy in Philadelphia. They traveled through the country and helped to popularize the Negro spirituals.

     They started with Negro spirituals and already in next year they recorded the first album Presenting The New Christy Minstrels : "Exciting New Folk Chorus" for Columbia records. The record studio didn't believe them, but the success overcame their expectations. This record was nominated on Grammy (1962). This Minstrels were the most familiar group in US. It was Sparks, who created group as school chorus. The group was booked onto TV show (The Andy Williams Show). This show had a millions of American TV viewers.
     In 1963 they recorded new album "Ramblim'" with famous song "Green, Green". All this album came from collaboration of McGuire and Sparks. In these years, The New Christy Minstrels was the most popular from their history. They played concerts in clubs, in colleges and earned more money than ever before. Everything turned around them.
     The first person, who exited from the Minstrels was just Randy Sparks (May 1963). It was hard shot, but he chose McGuire as the leader of the group. It was very logical decision. At that time the group worked hard six days a week.

     During 60-teen also many interprets went through the group. For example Kenny Rogers, Kim Carnes and Dave Ellington).
     In 70-teen the popularity of Minstrels began to go down when interests of country music averted from traditional to pop form. The Minstrels stopped their shows in 1971 and to 1978 only their records of some famous selection were published. The time showed that that was exactly that right what inspired further interprets and groups.
     The New Christy Minstrels had excellent vocal, which acceptance form traditional American and Irish song and classic folk music. Their addition is unforgettable.

     Past members also were :

• Kenny Rogers
• Gene Clark - The Byrds'
• Kim Carnes
• Larry Ramos - Association's
• Terry Williams
• Baxter Taylor - The Wayfares Trio
• Barry McGuire - Eve of Destruction
• Mike Settle
• Thelma Camacho
• Keith Barbour
• Dolan Ellis.

---

Green Green


Today


Three Wheels on my Wagon

Rangers - Plavci

When I ask you : „Do you know Rangers?“
Your answer will be: „What's the question? Yes, of course.“
„Really?“I ask.
„Yes, who doesn't know them? New York Rangers, you means, don't you?“
„No, not them.“
„Ah, you mean Rangers. Texas Rangers, something like cops. Yes I know them too. Or do you mean Elit Force from Vietnam?“
„No, I don' t mean that Rangers.“
„Really? And which Rangers do you mean?“
„Rangers – country group.“
„Hm, I have never hear about them.“
„Ok, you will hear now.“


They are my most favourite Czech groups. I listened this music from my childlike years and I listen it in spite of dead of its head protagonist (Milan Dufek). To tell the true, this country group is one of them, who help my country style's life to grow up.
Maybe it's destiny, but life can be very cruel. Milan dead in accident (meeting with motor sculler).

The beginning of this famous country group was in 1963, the decision to establish the western group. On the zero class on Engineering Faculty, main protagonists met together (Antonín Hájek, Milan Dufek, Petr Fáček). On holidays, they liked to travel on boating together, during day they boated, in the evening they played near campfire.
Hardly anywho country group had so much popularity between public than Rangers. In the first class, new members (Jiří Veisser, Jan Vančura, Miroslav Řihošek) came there. Later group expanded more(Radek Tomášek and Jarka Hadrabová).
Year 1965 and the first concert (in Vinohradská Sokolovňa) and the first honorarium (beer and hot dog)
The most important moment became, when Rangers found songs of american group New Christy Minstrels. This music and music of next four groups (Brothers Four, Kingston Trio, Stoneman's Family, Seekers) influenced all Rangers's production.
The first show was in Prague, in student club, next in Cultural House, because there a lot of people came and club hasn't so high capacity.
Year 1967 was their first Porta - their first win – their first concert in Slovakia, Bratislava. In 1968 they recorded the first but not the last LP desk in Panton (recording studio) and in the next year album The Rangers. There were their most popular songs as Ta zem je tvá zem, Shenandoah, Zvedněte kotvy or Balíček karet. Jarka Hadrabová finished her cooperation (she had some problems with her health).
In 1970 they sold million LP in Czechoslovakia. This situation enabled to have tours in Buenos Aires (1974), on Cuba (1974), Lisabon(1982 – high number of people), country festivals in Polland and Hungary, Mexico(1984), 14 concerts in Sao Paul (1988).
During their existence they had changed name from Rangers to Plavci (Swimmers - direction from political mode in 1971), but popularity didn't go down. Just conversely, go up. Their popular songs Vím, vím(1970), Pole s bavlnou(1970), Král silnic(1970), Nos pro trable(1971),Teče voda(1971), Láska je věc kouzelná(1971), Kingstontown(1973), Najdi tón(1977), Drak od Bílé skály(1980), Trpasličí svatba(1980) became to traditional folk, they are singing during folk festivals, near campfires, in country restaurants, etc.

Rangers or Plavci were so popular, they had about 300 concerts/year.
Very hard blow came in 1989, Antonín Hájek died (In December 15, after consequence of malign disease).
After change of political situation in Czechoslovakia (1989) group choose its name (Plavci) to original from beginning (Rangers) in 1990.

Actual members from 1990 to 1999:
Milan Dufek – singer, guitar
Jiří Kaleš – singer, guitar
Jan Podjukl . singer, bass guitar
Luboš Řehák – singer, tambourine
Miroslav Řihošek – singer, banjo, acustic guitar
Jiří Veisser – singer, violin

1992 brought record Country show with the legend of country music Dave Dudley.
In 1993 CD The best of Minstrels by Rangers production.
Consecutively, they travelled througth USA and Canada, got platinium desk (sale of 2 millions records), tour in Australia (1997), next platinium desk (CD 21x Rangers – 1998 by Bonton production).
As many other music group, Rangers had their Yoko Ono too, but they outlasted.
Dead of Milan Dufek didn't mean definite finish of group but finish of main period of it. From this time you can find three country groups with very similar name (Rangers, Rangers Band, New Rangers).
Rangers had shows mainly in Czech republic, but every year we could see them on Country Lodenica in Piešťany. I can tell you, it was one of the most popular presentation in this festival. But it wasn't that right. The most of original group members are in Rangers Band now (I didn't know it in Lodenica - my mistake, but they sang original songs and it was perfect to listen them again).

I had happiness to be on their last concert in Bratislava, in 2005, when there were all of their members with Milan Dufek on the head and got their autographs. Everytime, when I listen this music, I'd like to smile and cry in one time. Smile - because it's very nice music, cry - because original Rangers with Milan Dufek can't be back. I can never visit their shows anymore. I wish only he could see us from the heaven.

Their songs are still alive and old Rangers (before 2005) will live in many hearts forever.

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Orchidej (Orchid)
- original song Today - The New Christy Minstrels


Vysočina (Hig