Sweetheart of the Rodeo was a side project for many of the original band members, with most of the band performing in other projects. Barbed Wire Cutters, Kasey Anderson and the Foot Stompin’ Trio provided a mainstay for the musicians, but Sweetheart of the Rodeo became a fun way to get together and practice while performing, and the group has evolved into something much more meaningful to Bellingham’s bluegrass community.
Like many bands, its roster has changed since its inception in 2000. Lead singer and guitarist Stell Newsome has remained consistently involved, along with bassist Bruce Shaw and drummer Tom Forster Jr. The newest member to the band is Ben Wildenhaus, the band’s Rhodes keyboard player.
You can see them perform at the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern, 902 State St., on New Year’s Eve with Chuckanut Drive. Tickets are $10 at the door.
