Every once in a while, a new band arrives on the scene which challenges the overly rigid (and oftentimes, glib) stereotypes which govern contemporary radio programming. A generation ago, groups such as the Byrds, the Flying Burrito Brothers and most assuredly, the Beatles, all distanced themselves from the crowd with innovative lyrics, memorable vocals and a style of music that defied easy categorization. They stood in the vanguard with an aura of confidence which bordered on cockiness. An attitude which still managed to reflect genuine respect and affection - both for their audience and for the traditions from which their music was born.

Beau Vedette is a rock and roll band which is unafraid of its country and folk roots and unwilling to pander to the lowest common denominator of any genre. They are firmly committed to taking the musical and lyrical high road and are equally determined to take their audience with them. While proudly acknowledging more than a passing influence by those artists mentioned above,
Beau Vedette obviously has no difficulty maintaining their own identity.

The band is fronted by singer and award-winning ASCAP songwriter, Roger Johnson. He and fellow tunesmith, Morgan Hughes, have crafted original material which is alive with the classic struggles of love lost and found, of life's most difficult challenges and greatest rewards. Those who listen closely, will discover that Johnson and Hughes are not without a sense of humor either! Clearly, this is a band who believes that commercial success need not require selling its listeners short.

Beau Vedette turned heads, while virtually stealing the show,
during their appearance at the 2nd annual Gram Parsons Memorial concert in the fall of 1997.
In 1998 their polished performance raised the roof !
They will be performing at the 1999 edition of this event,
returning to Joshua Tree, California, as one of the headliners at
Gram Fest IV this September.

Best of all, later this year, the multi-faceted (artist, band leader, session arranger & producer) Russ Pahl, will bring all of his expertise to bear, when he and Johnson join forces in Nashville, to begin work on an exciting new Vedettes project!

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