For those of you who have faithfully read my monthly articles, first let me say thank you; second, I briefly mentioned the band Bishop Road way back in my January 2021 article. This month, I decided to expand on my history with this country band from Western PA.
Bishop Road, as a group, decided that it is time for them to take a break; when I read their recent Facebook announcement, I commented: “After teaching line dance for 30 years, I made the decision to take a “leave of absence” to spend quality time with my grandson. I’m so happy and content with my choice! Even though I don’t know the specifics of your decision to “take a break” I sympathize with you because I know it will be bittersweet. Thanks for all the music over the years, especially at Bootleggers! I hope I get one more chance to share the stage with you on cowbell!”
Yes, you read that correctly; I was part of the band while I played cowbell during the song “Honky Tonk Women” by the Rolling Stones. Even though Bishop Road played mostly country, they also showcased their musical talents with various genres, including rock & roll. I have many great memories onstage with them at different bars in the eastern Ohio/western PA area. They invited all their fans to hopefully catch one of their final performances; I had hoped to join them, but unfortunately, I was unable to.
From the moment I first heard Bishop Road, I was immediately drawn to their songs, musicality, comaradery, and mostly their desire to entertain the audience. Throughout the years, their musician lineup has changed, with the exception of two members: the lead guitarist (Shawn) and the lead singer (Dave), who maintained those spots. I can’t thank this band enough for all the fun times I had listening, line dancing, and playing cowbell with them. They had a faithful fan following who will miss their shows.
There are numerous videos on social media; here is my favorite because it was at Bootleggers:
Here’s one of my all-time favorite line dances to the song “Steal My Kisses” which Bishop Road’s original lineup played one of the first times I heard them:
This article wouldn’t be complete without a shout out to Wendy (pictured with me above). She ALWAYS seemed to capture pictures and videos of me dancing and playing cowbell. Thank you, Bishop Road, for the memorable times; I wish you all the best!
Dori Yez will continue to write her monthly article here; and may also “guest instruct” at local venues/events!
