Current News

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Sherwin was named "Entertainer of the Year" at the first ever FAME Awards Show & Ceremony held on February 14th at the International Convention Center in Pharr, Texas. FAME (Families Advocating Moral Entertainment) passed out awards to winners in over 25 categories, honoring country and bluegrass musicians and comedians who perform in Texas's Rio Grande Valley, Nashville, TN, Branson, MO, and Mountain View, AR (a center of music and arts in the Ozark Mountains). Sherwin has performed in Texas for decades including annual tours of the Rio Grande Valley during the past seven winters. Sherwin remarked about taking home the top award, "I love Texas and I thank all the friends and fans for their ongoing support. This was a real surprise and I'm honored."

Other winners of FAME Awards included Ray Benson's "Ride With Bob" (a tribute to Bob Wills) for "Show of the Year" and Jerry Douglas for "Dobro Player of the Year." Nominees for FAME Awards must meet exemplary standards that are set with the whole family in mind. FAME states that it is "not a religious group, but rather a group who believes in freedom of religion, freedom of speech and the pursuit of happiness with out suggestive verbal and/or visual presentations."

The inaugural FAME Awards Show & Ceremony featured live performances and presentations of awards, and is scheduled to return for its second annual installment in 2009. Sherwin performed a portion of his popular "Tribute to Johnny Cash" during the show.

We want to congratulate our drummer Rick Johnson on his upcoming induction into the Mid-America Music Hall of Fame (Formerly the Minnesota Rock/Country Hall of Fame.) Rick is being inducted with the group C. A. Quintet on Friday, May 2, 2008. The festivities begin at 6:00 PM. The C.A. Quintet will perform prior to their induction on the 9:00 PM segment. C.A. Quintet performed from 1966 - 1971 garnering the hit single "Mickey's Monkey" and the LP "Trip Through Hell." The legendary LP, "Trip Through Hell" recorded on the Candy Floss label in 1969 is recognized world wide for it's collectable value. Most copies sell for $1500.00 - $2500.00 each! For more information on this event visit the Mid-America Music Hall of Fame web site www.rockcountryhall.com. Congratulations Rick, it's great to have you as a "Cotton King!"

Many Sherwin Linton fans will remember Cleo Bee who was a very important part of Sherwin's show back in the 1960's and 1970's. Following her tours with the Sherwin Linton Show, Cleo formed her own group "Cleo Bee & The Honeycomb" and had many years of music success. "The Honeycomb" became the house entertainers at the famous "Louie's Inn" in Dresser, WI from 1974 through 1977. After 31 years this group will reunite for one evening of entertainment at the Trollhaugen Ski Resort & Convention Center on August 2, 2008. The music, friends and nostalgia all begin at 6:00 PM. I'm sure there are a lot more event details so visit "The Honeycomb's" newly developed web site www.etribes.com/cleobee for more information.

It's hard to believe it is already November. Sherwin and "The Cotton Kings" had an amazing summer and fall. A big "Thank You" to the fans across the mid-west for attending the many fairs, festivals and celebrations we had the privilege to participate in.

As many of you know Sherwin was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame on September 8th. I thought it would be important to share a few photos from this big event.

2007 Inductees South Dakota Hall of Fame from left Monsignor James M. Doyle, George "Sparky" Anderson, T. Denny Sanford, William E. Walsh, Susan Salway (Accepting for Orville Francis Salway, Sr.), Richard A. Cutler, Clark Redlinger, Sherwin Linton, Carole Hillard, Dr. Dwayne L. Beck, Charles E. Clay, Carl & Marietta Soukup

The unveiling of Sherwin's Hall of Fame display. Sherwin with nominators Judy & Bear Toennies and Al & Donna Schulz

Sherwin with fellow inductee George "Sparky" Anderson. "Sparky" was born in Bridgewater, South Dakota.

Sherwin accepting his induction to the South Dakota Hall of Fame from Hall of Fame President Garney Henley.

In July we told you about the Science Museum of Minnesota celebrating it's 100th Anniversary. In honor of this, 60 dinosaurs were produced and placed on the streets of St. Paul. Dino #17, known as "Dylan" was a tribute to famous Minnesota music personalities. Painted on the dinosaur were images and names of famous Minnesota music artists including Sherwin Linton. We requested fans find "Dylan" and take their picture with the bright orange dino just like Sherwin did.

Music and science are meeting on the streets of St. Paul, Minnesota thanks to a great new walking exhibit sponsored by the Science Museum of Minnesota in celebration of their 100^th Anniversary. Visitors can view the sixty dinosaurs in a walking tour. Each dinosaur has a business sponsor and is displayed near that business. The McNally-Smith School of Music is located at the corner of Exchange Street and Wabasha in St. Paul (19 Exchange Street.) They are sponsors of Dino #17 known as “Dylan.” Painted by Artist Dan Wheeler, “Dylan” is a tribute to famous Minnesota music personalities. Painted on the dinosaur are images of Bob Dylan, Prince, Judy Garland, Paulette Carlson, Bobby Vee, and famous record producers Jimmy Jam Harris & Terry Lewis. With limited space to include everyone’s image the rest of the bright orange dino is covered with the names of famous Minnesota music artists. The name “Sherwin Linton” appears to the right of Bob Dylan and just below the image of Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis near the dino’s neck. Sherwin is in great company along with Owen Husney (Princes first manager.) and the Rock band “Gypsy.” (Gypsy’s horn section performed on Sherwin’s 1978 recording of “That Kind Of Girl.”)

We took Sherwin’s photo with “Dylan” on July 4^th. We’d love to add your picture taken with “Dylan” to our web site too! Bring your 4x6 inch photo with “Dylan” to a live concert performance. That photo will be your coupon for $5.00 off any purchase at our souvenir table. (Only one offer per person. Photos will not be returned. Offer good through September 9, 2007.)

The “Diggin Dino’s” exhibit runs through Labor Day. The dino's will be sold by auction on September 9^th at the Minnesota Science Museum in St. Paul. Proceeds benefit the science museum.

The first United States exhibit of this type took place in Chicago in 1999 where “cows” were decorated. This concept was originally conceived by Beat Seeberger – Quin and presented in Zurich, Switzerland in the summer of 1998. Following the death of Minnesota cartoonist Charles Schultz the city of St. Paul sponsored “Peanuts on Parade” using the images of Snoopy in 2000, Charlie Brown in 2001, Lucy in 2002, and Linus Van Pelt in 2003.

We hope our Minneapolis metro friends will join us July 24^th at the “Knight Cap” (1500 N. 4^th) in northeast Minneapolis 612-789-5233 for a night of music, fun, and dancing too! We are proud to welcome Jan Whitehill to our group for his first night of performance. Jan is a very gifted upright / string bass player who will be beginning his tenure as a “Cotton King.”

Additional late July engagements include July 27 in the beer garden at the Scott County Fair in Jordan, MN – 8:00 PM and July 28 & 29 the Free Stage at the Anoka County Fair in Anoka, MN. Show times July 28^th(Sherwin’s 68^th Birthday! Cards only please.) are 7:00 PM with a “Tribute To Johnny Cash” at 10:00 PM and July 29^th 4:00 PM with a “Tribute To Johnny Cash” at 7:00 PM.

CTN-TV, this week completed filming for an eight minute feature story on Sherwin which will begin airing on August 2^ndon the program “Talk Of The Town” CTN is a cable access channel located in Anoka County, MN. The segment will begin airing on cable television August 2^nd and will play several times daily through the month. For exact cities and air times go to the CTN web site www.ctnstudios.com and click on “Talk of the Town” followed by “Playback Schedule.” For those outside of Anoka County the piece will also air on CTN-TV’s web site beginning August 7^th. To view online go to www.ctnstudios.com click on “watch web video” and then select “Talk of the Town.” You will be able to view the show as a Windows Media File.

Following the April 4^th release of the book “Growing Up Country” Sherwin was busy with book signings and media appearances. The book, edited by Grammy Award winning artist Charlie Daniels is a collection of essays authored by sixty of Charlie’s friends. Sherwin was honored to be selected as a contributing author for this project. Sherwin and Charlie were finally able spend some time visiting during Charlie’s visit to “Taste of Minnesota” in early July. We would like to thank our gracious hosts Ron and Linda Maddox for a wonderful evening at “The Taste!”

Music and History have always walked hand in hand. Our earliest pioneers loved music and as determined as they were to build new lives in America they were equally determined to have music as part of that new life. The dreams of those early pioneers were for a better life for themselves and future generations. This July ( 6,7,& 8) the small town of Lake Norden, South Dakota celebrates their Centennial. Sherwin Linton has been honored to help in the recorded preservation of the history of this small northeast South Dakota railroad town. Lake Norden, founded in 1907 was born when the South Dakota Central Railroad (later to be the Great northern) was routed through this area. This CD contains a 1982 recorded account by early pioneer Alfred Wayrynen, telling of the plotting of the town and his fathers purchase of lots for his blacksmith shop. In 1919 this town's love for the game of baseball was so intense that they built a 5000 seat stadium. This impressive structure was conceived, funded, and built in three months. Quite an amazing feat for a town of three hundred! This town is truly a "Town Of Dreams." The CD contains 20 song selections augmented with dialogue from local residents. Listeners will enjoy 80 minutes of history, humor, and song as they learn the heart warming Americana story of the "Town Of Dreams."

Song Titles Include: America / My Country 'Tis Of Thee, The Town Of Dreams, The Village Blacksmith, Country Pride, The Greatest, Good Old Mountain Dew, Back Home Again, Thank You For Serving, Mom and Dad, Allis Chalmers, Ivory Tower, Honeymoon On A Rocket Ship, No Charge, Country Table, Christmas Memories, Life's Railway To Heaven, That Old Gravel Road, Mama's Bible, You Can't Go Back

The CD retails for $18.00 and is available from Black Gold Records • P.O. Box 48100 • Minneapolis, MN 55448. Please include $3.50 for shipping charges. To purchase online visit www.CDBaby.com.

We are excited to announce the release of a "Vintage Series" CD and DVD of Sherwin's first acetate recordings and film footage!

"Sherwin Linton & His Rocketeers" is an eleven song CD of Sherwin's original acetate (demonstration) recordings made between 1956 and 1958. These songs were recorded directly to acetate reference discs. The recordings were very old and worn so there is substantial surface noise even in the transfer to CD The integrity of the performances still offer a glimpse of the early raw rock-a-billy style of Sherwin Linton. Many fans have expressed an interest in these recordings even though they are rather scratchy. After listening to a couple of songs, the surface noise just becomes part of the sound. We are confident that you will be entertained with a bit of nostalgia and the photos of Sherwin's high school days and bands (including the cover of him in his 1956 Dodge Convertible) make this package a true collectors piece.

Song Titles Include: Maybelline, Blue Suede Shoes, Matchbox, That's Alright Mama, Rock-A-Beatin' Heart, Rock Your Little Baby To Sleep, Home Of The Blues, Is It True What They Say About Judy, My True Love, That'll Be The Day, Honky Tonk Guitar

These CD's retail for $10.00 each from Black Gold Records • P.O. Box 48100 • Minneapolis, MN 55448 please include $3.50 for shipping charges.

Country music legend Sherwin Linton is also recognized as the Midwest's original Rock-A-Billy Rebel. This DVD features some of his earliest recordings ("Maybelline" 1956) and photos of his young life and performances in South Dakota in the 1940's and 50's. Also included is an 8mm film restoration of one of Sherwin's 1959 performances. The cover photo is of Sherwin and The Fender Benders featuring Bob Trebus and Cal Houle with Sherwins's 1960 Plymouth Convertible.

In 1965 Sherwin Linton and the Fender Benders, along with over 25 other "Flame Cafe" musicians, performed a benefit show for fellow musician Lenny Paro at the Medina Ballroom. Highlighting this show was cowboy film star Johnny Western. Because there was no audio on this film appropriate recordings from Linton's archives were added. Though these disc recordings are well worn and the film is nearly 50 years old the integrity and vibrance gives the viewer a historic image of the early career of Sherwin Linton.

This DVD is 20 minutes in length and narrated by Sherwin Linton. The DVD's retail for $10.00 each and are available from Black Gold Records • P.O. Box 48100 • Minneapolis, MN 55448 please include $3.50 for shipping charges.,

Growing up in rural South Dakota truly was "Growing Up Country." When Charlie Daniels invited Sherwin to participate in his new book by this same title, it wasn't long before Sherwin's essay was penned. With sixty participants ranging from NASCAR great Darrell Waltrip, to Former President Jimmy Carter and current and traditional Country Music artists Bill Anderson, Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, and Toby Keith all contributing stories with memories and thoughts of what makes country people country, the book is a very interesting read. Plan to attend one of Sherwin's regional book signings. Contact the stores by phone in advance to reserve your copy of "Growing Up Country."

May 19

Barnes & Noble Books

Mankato, MN

507-345-3444

Mankato River Hills Mall - 5:00 PM

May 20

MSP Music Expo

Minneapolis, MN

651-373-0065

Four Points By Sheraton - Minneapolis - 1330 Industrial Blvd. This collectors expo features over 45 dealer tables with vinyl records, CDs and music memorabilia. Sherwin's appearance at this event begins at 11:30 AM with an acoustic music presentation and brief lecture describing his participation in the new book "Growing Up Country." He will also share his memories of the 1958 Alan Freed "Big Beat" concert he attended and the sale of his original show poster! Sherwin has had a limited number of art quality copies of this poster produced. Books, music and posters will be available at this event. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Regular Admission $3.00 or $2.00 with the donation of two cans of nonperishable food to benefit Minnesota FoodShare. For more information visit www.mspmusicexpo.com for more information.

May 25

Little Professor Book Centr

Aberdeen, SD

605-225-0632

Lakewood Mall 7:00 PM Sherwin will do a short acoustic music and story presentation prior to signing.

May 26

B. Dalton Books

Watertown, SD

605-882-2107

Watertown Mall 1:00 PM Sherwin will do a short acoustic music and story presentation prior to signing.

Sherwin's new CD "Town Of Dreams Centennial" will be released July 4th! This new project celebrates the 100 year anniversary of the town of Lake Norden, South Dakota. The CD features twenty songs, many new, and also some classics we remember our parents and grandparents singing. The songs are interspersed with bits of dialogue shared by residents of Lake Norden. Sherwin has even acquired a taped interview done thirty years ago with Alfred Wayrynen who accompanied his father to purchase original plots to build and open his blacksmith shop in 1907 in the new town of Lake Norden.

Friends and Fans will want to visit Sherwin's new "My Space Page." www.myspace.com/sherwinlinton My space music pages allow friends, fans, and musicians to network, share songs, and interact! Sherwin's page features his bio, four songs, a video clip and a news paper article written by Chris Reimenschneider from the Minneapolis Star Tribune plus Sherwin's tour schedule. We want to send a big "Thank You" to Jennifer Markey www.myspace.com/jennifermarkey who has built Sherwin's page. Jennifer is a devoted Sherwin Linton fan and a very talented traditional Country Music entertainer. Jennifer is Sherwin's My Space "web master" and takes care of all of his friend requests. Make sure and send Jennifer and Sherwin a friend request and message congratulating them on their new "My Space" presence.

Sherwin was very excited and honored when he received notification in April that he will be the 2007 inductee in the "Arts & Humanities" category of this prestigious hall honoring individuals who have lived some portion of their lives in the state of South Dakota and whose contributions garner public recognition. A maximum of fifteen individuals are inducted each year in fifteen categories. Previous inductees include Tom Brokaw, Al Neuharth, Terry Redlin, Bob Barker, Mary Hart, Hubert Humphrey, Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse.

Born in Volga, South Dakota and having grown up in the railroad towns along the Great Northern line Sherwin has always called South Dakota home. After graduating from Watertown High School in Watertown, South Dakota in 1957, Sherwin moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota and has built a fifty-one year music career.

The South Dakota Hall of Fame, founded in 1978 is a nonprofit entity whose museum is located along Interstate I-90 at Chamberlain, South Dakota. Visitors will enjoy the interactive features of the museum while learning about the impact these important personalities have had on today's culture. The museum also houses the Wells Fargo Theater and a large display of Indian artifacts and cultural items.

This years induction events will be held September 7-8 at the Cedar Shores Hotel/Resort in Chamberlain/Oacoma, South Dakota. Fans and friends wishing to attend may find important information on the Hall of Fame web site www.SDHallOfFame.com or contact the South Dakota Hall of Fame by e-mail at sdhof@midstatesd.net or by phone 605-734-4216 for more details.

Spring is here and we are working hard assembling our summer tour schedule. It will be another busy, fun filled summer with over thirty outdoor events! Plan to join us at the Central States Fair in Rapid City, South Dakota, the South Dakota State Fair in Huron, South Dakota, the Clay County Fair in Spencer, Iowa, or the Anoka County Fair (The county we live in!) in Anoka, Minnesota! Check our schedule for a complete list of dates!

We have been so excited about the release of the book "Growing Up Country." Country music legend Charlie Daniels, of "Devil Went Down To Georgia," fiddle playing fame, contacted Sherwin in May of 2006 and invited him to be a part of his star studded roster of contributing authors. Growing Up Country is a collection of essays written on the subject "What makes country people country?" The book is published by DoubleDay-Flying Dolphin Press and was officially released to stores April 4, 2007. Featured contributors range from music icons, to NASCAR drivers, former Presidents, and contemporary kings of the rodeo circuit. I've included a list of all of the participants in this "Sampling of Country Life" below.

If you would like to order your copy of "Growing Up Country" personally autographed by Sherwin just click on the picture above. Hard cover copies are $20.00 plus a shipping charge of $5.00 per book. Print and complete the printable order form and allow 10-14 days for delivery. We are working to arrange book signing and promotional events in Minnesota and South Dakota in conjunction with the book release. More information will be available on this site as well as Sherwin's new My Space page.

Speaking of "My Space," fans will want to take time to visit Sherwin's new on-line location www.myspace.com/sherwinlinton. Our good friend Jennifer Markey has been hard at work building Sherwin's "My Space - Music Space" site. Jennifer is a very talented Traditional Country Music Vocalist in her own right but she is also a HUGE Sherwin Linton fan. Jennifer contacted me back in February asking if she could build a Sherwin Linton fan site. I asked her if she would be interested in producing his artist sight. She has been excited and is waiting for me to get her as many materials as possible to make it look good! So far you'll find Sherwin's photo and a short bio. We'll have Sherwin's tour schedule, some music, and video clips in place soon. I know Jennifer will have it looking "Real Cool" in no time!

It seems like 2006 flew by so very quickly. Sherwin and I have some wonderful memories to savor well into this year. Sherwin's 50th Anniversary Celebration was a huge success. We entertained 200 guests for an intimate "Harvest Dinner" on November 4th. On November 5th 1000 "Sherwin Linton Fans" packed the Medina Entertainment Center to celebrate Sherwin's amazing career. Thirty special guest performers, all who have been a part of Sherwin's show graced the stage. In March I will be adding a whole section of photo highlights from this event to this site.

Sherwin and I are departing for south Texas today. The living room is full of luggage and we'll soon be out packing our van and trailer for the trip. We are getting a bit of snow this morning so that will most likely slow the process a bit. We are looking forward to all of our engagements in the Rio Grande Valley. Check our 2007 schedule for show dates and locations.

Sherwin and "The Cotton Kings" were featured performers on the "Cash Only VII" show at the Cabooze in Minneapolis last evening. This amazing package show is produced each year honoring the musical legacy of Johnny Cash. Six acts perform Cash material in a variety of styles for four hours straight. The audience is charged and very enthusiastic. It is impossible to describe the sight from the stage of 1500 young people shoulder to shoulder applauding and cheering. The decibel level shakes your innards. Sherwin is so graciously received by this audience. He told me this morning he thinks this is one of the most amazing events he has ever been a part of. We want to thank Taco Martin and "The Cabooze" for including us in the show lineup and Nate Dungan and Dan Neil for conceiving a great show concept seven years ago!

We will be releasing a new CD this July. "Town Of Dreams Centennial" will celebrate the history of the town of Lake Norden, SD. We hope to also complete the repackaging to CD of two of Sherwin's LP's from the 1960's and 1970's.

July 23, 2006 friends and fans gathered at Sherwin’s home for a surprise party commemorating Sherwin’s fifty years in music. The party was hosted by Alexandra & Amber Samson who put together a great thirty minute show on Sherwin’s patio stage. The show even featured a “Sherwin Linton Impersonator!” Sherwin was very surprised and even speechless! This was a first; Sherwin is usually so composed with something to say!

Found Sherwin and “The Cotton Kings” at the Anoka County Fair in Anoka, Minnesota. Many fans braved the one hundred degree heat and traveling from as far away as Illinois and Colorado to be on hand for the presentation by Sherwin Linton fans of a very special gift in recognition of their appreciation for the many years of entertainment Sherwin has provided for them. Former Fan Club Presidents Mel & Connie Wohlers joined Dean & Marie Cowan in presenting Sherwin with a 1909 “Indian Head” five dollar gold piece necklace and a certificate to have satellite radio installed in Sherwin’s traveling vehicle. Sherwin was again surprised and honored to be recognized with such a very special gift.

Mel & Connie Wohlers and Dean & Marie Cowan Presenting Sherwin A Gold Coin Necklace.

Many of you have enjoyed the talents and stage performances of the children and teens that are often featured in Sherwin’s show. Alexandra & Amber Samson from Becker, MN have been touring with Sherwin for the past eight years. Their singing, yodeling, and dancing are always a show stopper. Taylor Marshall from Hitchcock, SD has a great way of selling those wordy fast talking songs while accompanying himself on the guitar. Kristie Goldade from Wishek, ND is our newest “Yodelin Sweetheart.” We’d like you to meet a new young performer, nine year old Cody Ewald. Cody performs along with his fiddle as “Joes The Clown.” Cody recently joined Sherwin and “The Cotton Kings” for the filming of “Mid-West Country” aired at 8:00 PM Saturdays on RFD-TV. Look for Cody’s performance to air soon.

From Left Amber Samson, Kristie Goldade, Alexandra Samson, Cody Ewald "Joes The Clown"

Sherwin's professional career began in 1955 & 1956 when he performed with his band "The Rocketeers" on his radio show broadcast by KWAT in Watertown, South Dakota. He has made music and entertainment his career & passion now for 50 years. He has walked on stage to perform over 50,000 shows in this time and amassed a 5000 song repertoire. In 2005 "Ripley's Believe It Or Not" recognized Sherwin for his 50 years in music and never missing an engagement! He has been inducted into six "Halls of Fame." On November 4 & 5, 2006 friends, fans, and musicians who have performed with Sherwin are invited to join us for a two day gala event at the Medina Entertainment Center • 500 Hwy. 55 • Medina, Minnesota. This event will kick off Saturday evening November 4th with a "Harvest Dinner" and social hour followed by a special program of music and reminiscing in the Medina's "Oakwood Room." Tickets for this evening are $21.00 including meal and gratuities. Seating is limited to approximately 200 for this day so please order your tickets early. November 5th Sherwin, Pam and "The Cotton Kings" plus many guests will perform in the Medina's main ballroom from 1:00 - 6:00 PM. This show will include former "Cotton Kings" Red Freeman, Dick Moebakken, Dorothy, "Everybody's Mother," Judy Jo and other guests! A Sherwin Linton museum will be on display featuring costumes, awards, posters, photos, jewelry, records & other memorabilia from Sherwin's long colorful career!

2006 marks Sherwin's 50th year in music. Sherwin formed his first Rock-A-Billy band "The Rocketeers" and performed with them live on radio station KWAT in Watertown, South Dakota in 1955 - 1956 - 1957. Sherwin has been blessed with many career highlights over these past 50 years. We plan to share many wonderful memories this year with all of Sherwin's fans and friends. I have developed a small traveling museum that we will display at several engagements throughout the year. I have pictures below of this first outing at the Mid-West Country Theatre in Sandstone, Minnesota, March 11, 2006. The next engagement featuring the museum display will be May 26-27, 2006 at the Medina Entertainment Center for the Minnesota Rock/Country Hall Of Fame Event. The display includes hundreds of photos, awards, costumes, and instruments. There are actually thousands of items to choose from and I can't possibly display them all. I will try to include some new items each time I arrange the display.

We have just released the first of what we hope will be three CD re-issues in this year. Sherwin Linton "1966-1975 Great Years, Great Songs" is available on CD for $18.00 plus $2.50 shipping. It will also be available at www.CDBaby.com soon. From the mid-sixties throughout the 70's Sherwin spent a lot of time in recording studios in Nashville, Chicago, Hollywood, and Minneapolis. Many of these recordings were released on singles and albums for various record companies and labels. Fortunately Sherwin was able to retain the rights to the masters of most of these recordings. These masters have quietly remained for several decades in our personal vault. In celebration of Sherwin's 50th year we are planning to bring back to life many of the songs Sherwin recorded so many years ago. Sherwin was fortunate to hit both national and regional charts with many of these songs. The songs bring back a lot of memories of good times in studios and on stage, performing during a very exciting time in Sherwin's career. Titles Include: Cotton King, Innocent Rose, I'm Leavin For Good This Time, They're Bringin' Johnny Home Today, Then I Miss You, Sunshine, Rapid City, SD, The Folks Back Home, Back Home Again, You Gave Me A Mountain, They Call The Wind Mariah, Stop And Smell The Roses, The Chance I'll Have To Take, Time In A Bottle, Sing Me A Memory, When She Cries, The Baby's Cryin', You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling, Good Old Electric Washing Machine, Traveling Minstrel Man We hope to repackage two additional CDs, look for "My Kind Of Song" and "Dusty Roads and Prairie Towns" to be available by mid summer.

Sherwin's first official "Fan Club" was started by Marlene Hanson in 1965. This organization grew under the guidance of Jim & Babe Morrison, and became affiliated with IFCO the International Fan Club Organization. These very dedicated fans won many awards for their fan club booths at "Fan Fair" and planned many special events for members to participate in. In the early 1980's Mel & Connie Wohlers and Marv & Ellie Ryan took over as Co-Presidents of Sherwin's Fan Club. in the mid 1980's Sherwin chose to disband a paid membership club allowing fans to join a free mailing list that now numbers near 5000 members across the country. This year a new group of fans are working to assist me in planning special events for Sherwin's 50th Year. Dean Cowan, a Sherwin Linton fan since Sherwin's radio days on KWAT Radio, Watertown, SD 1956 is heading up the "Friends & Fans Of Sherwin Linton." This group of fans are working to present Sherwin with a special gift from his fans recognizing the 50 years spent entertaining all of you. If you would like to participate in this and find out more about the some of the additional special events planned for later this year please contact

They will be happy to answer your e-mail message and send you information on the plans that have been made.

January 7, 2006 Sherwin's 2005 Christmas Show will be aired on the Mid-West Country TV Show on RFD-TV at 9:00 PM Central Time. This programming is available to all Dish Network and Satellite TV Subscribers. Check with your local provider for the channel assignment in your area.

March 11, 2006 Mid-West Country Theatre - Sandstone, MN Show Times 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This will be the first of many "Sherwin Linton - 50 Year - Celebrations." I will open each show with selections from my new CD "Looking Back." Sherwin will follow with a ninety minute show "This Is My Life In Song" telling his career story. There will be a large display of Sherwin's career memorabilia including awards, photos, and costumes.

Sherwin has been included in the 2006 "Rock The Cure" calendar. This calendar features many Twin Cities Music Celebrities and Sherwin is Mr. February and Mr. March! The calendars are available for $15.00 by visiting the web site www.rockthecure.org. For information or ordering e-mail info@rockthecure.org. All proceeds benefit the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation.

All of Sherwin's CD's are now available online at www.CDBaby.com. We are currently generating strong sales with this Oregon based company. Many sales go overseas to Europe, Asia, and Japan. This is also a great way for fans who are not able to see the live show on a regular basis to have all of Sherwin's current recordings! In Minnesota Sherwin's CD's can be purchased at all "Electric Fetus" stores. We still mail order, if interested contact us with a catalog request.

Sherwin Linton has been recognized by one of the worlds most renowned and authoritive publications that specializes in unusual phenomena and phenomenal accomplishments.

Sherwin's closest high school friend Michael Kampen O'Riley contacted us about a year ago and said he had read of Sherwin's punctuality and dedication in having never missed an engagement in his nearly 50 years of performing. Michael said he thought Sherwin should be in "Ripley's Believe It Or Not" and he would like to make the contact and submission for us. Earlier this year the information was forwarded to "Ripley's" and we gave it no more thought. August 23, 2005 Sherwin was recognized in "Ripley's" published illustration that appears in hundreds of US newspapers and magazines and also in 37 foreign countries. This will likely also be published in a future "Ripley's" book.

Michael Kampen O'Riley, who graduated with Sherwin in the class of 1957 from Watertown High School in Watertown, SD, recalled Sherwin's perfect attendance record throughout his school years. He said he could only imagine the dedication it has taken to be at every engagement over his long career tenure and titled Sherwin "The Iron Man Of The Steel Strings."

Those who have known and traveled with Sherwin through the years, doing more then 250 dates annually, have seen him drive through blizzards, tornados, floods and all kinds of inclement weather. He has driven and ridden in all kinds of vehicles, cars, buses, vans, trucks, RVs, jeeps, trains, planes, and chartered planes, rafts, row boats, ferrys, horses, buckboard wagons, and even bicycled, walked, and hitchhiked to make it to performances. He has been on stage with his arms in casts and slings after being thrown from horses and automobiles and having had other accidents, and performed following several surgeries, including three throat surgeries and other medical difficulties and illnesses and through many other personal and emotional traumas, but he has always been there for the show! "Believe It Or Not!"

We have just completed mastering the audio tracks and approving the artwork for Pam's first solo CD "Looking Back." Listeners will enjoy the twelve songs Pam has included, all selections she has enjoyed or performed live during the twenty five years she has been a part of Sherwin's show.

Song Titles Include: You Aint Down Home · Slippin' Away · My Baby Thinks He's A Train · Any Old Time · Wildwood Flower · Far-Side Banks Of Jordan · Whispering Pines · Tammy Wynette Medley (Apartment #9, Your Good Girls Gonna Go Bad, Divorce, Singin My Song, Stand By Your Man) · I've Been Everywhere · Oh What It Did To Me · Harper Valley PTA · God Bless America Again.

July 4th was the official release date for Sherwin's new CD "Dakota Railroad Town Centennial." This 78 minute, 21 song CD is integrated with interesting and humorous sound bites from the residents of the town of Stickney, South Dakota. Stickney celebrated it's Centennial in July 2005 and the Centennial Committee had contacted Sherwin asking him to produce this very entertaining time capsule of South Dakota history in honor of their town. We have found that folks from everywhere who appreciate reflections of history and rural American life enjoy this project. Chris Riemenschneider, Music Critic for the Minneapolis Star Tribune wrote, "Like his hero, Johnny Cash's concept album "Ride This Train," Sherwin Linton's new CD, "Dakota Railroad Town Centennial," weaves together spoken stories and songs about the landscape. Tracks range from the affectionate "Hicktown" to the hilarious "Sick Sober and Sorry & Stuck in Stickney South Dakota Singin' Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down in September in the Rain."

Song Titles Include: The Covered Wagon Rolled Right Along · Yellow Rose Of Texas · Centennial Time In Stickney · The Blizzard · Milk 'Em In The Mornin Blues · Old Doc Brown · Candy Kisses · Papa Played The Dobro · Black Land Farmer · California Blues (Blue Yodel #4) · Henry Spricks General Store · Stars & Stripes Over Iwo Jima · Strawberry Roan · Pin Ball Boogie · Little Oscar And The Gang · Old Abandoned Railroad Station · Daisy A Day · Sick Sober And Sorry & Stuck In Stickney South Dakota Singin Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down In September In The Rain · The Twentieth Century Is Gone & Over · Hicktown · Rusting In The Rain

The CDs are $18.00 each. If you would like to have either of these items shipped to you please add $2.50 shipping and handling per order. Please indicate the titles you are wishing to receive in all mail orders.

Orders should be sent to: Black Gold Records · P.O. Box 48100 · Minneapolis, MN 55448

September 12, 2005 will mark the two year anniversary of Johnny Cash's passing. We are constantly reminded of the many contributions Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash made to the world of music. Sherwin has been invited to participate in two very special events celebrating Cash's musical legacy. September 1, 2005 Sherwin, Pam and "The Cotton Kings" will do a 45 minute segment on the "Cash Tribute Show" at the National Traditional Country Music Festival in Missouri Valley, IA. This show will also feature Tommy Cash and Marvin Rainwater and young Taylor Marshall. The show begins at 8:00 PM on the Main Stage. This is an outdoor venue so bring a lawn chair. Admissions are collected at the festival gate. For more information about this week long all acoustic festival phone Bob Everhart at 712-762-4363 or visit them on the web at www.oldtimemusic.bigstep.com. Sherwin will host a "Cash Tribute Evening" at Mayslacks in Minneapolis on September 12, 2005. This is an all Cash evening with special guests Paul Metsa, Tim Sigler, Jan Whitehill, Matt Pudas (White Iron Band), Dave & Dawn Carlson and others.

We will celebrate the release of our two new CDs "Dakota Railroad Town Centennial" and "Looking Back" on September 24, 2005 at "Lee's Liquor" in Minneapolis. I will keep everyone informed of the show details as soon as the information becomes available.

After nearly twenty years and over a half a million miles of service our traveling rig "Freddy the Fender Truck" has retired. Freddy graces the cover of Sherwin's new CD "It Happened In America." Freddy got his name after Sherwin fastened a Fender guitar Logo to the grill in place of the Ford emblem, hence "Freddy Fender!" Freddy still has a lot of adventurous miles to go. Someone suggested we sell him on E-Bay! If you wish to know when this listing will be posted please e-mail us at LintonEnt@aol.com! Freddy's replacement is a White Ford Extended Van with a V10 Triton engine and plenty of towing power! In about four weeks we'll have a brand new twelve foot "V Nose" tandem axel trailer. We're all excited about the new wheels! If anyone has a good idea for a name for this vehicle we'd love to hear it!

In late May and early June, Pam spent fourteen days in Europe traveling with her Mother and two sisters. This was a wonderful vacation which she was able to share with some very special people in her life. She was also very happy to be able to meet Peter Lenloy in Salzburg, Austria. Peter produces a syndicated radio show "Radio Carinzia" which is broadcast in Austria and Italy. Peter has been playing Sherwin's recordings for many years and has been so helpful in airing Sherwin's music in foreign markets. Peter was on his way to a festival in Haag, Austria and was able to spend about an hour with her at the "Hotel Amadeus," their home away from home in Salzburg!

With such a busy summer ahead of us we hope that we will have the opportunity to meet each of you along the way!

On May 22, 2004 Sherwin will be inducted into the "Mid-West Rock & Country Hall of Fame." The event will be held at the Medina Entertainment Center in Medina, MN. The doors at the Medina are scheduled to open at 1:00 PM with music beginning at 2:00 PM. There will be two stages, one for Country acts and the other for Rock-N-Roll acts. Johnny Green and the Greenmen will host the Rock-N-Roll stage and Sherwin will host the Country stage. Performances will alternate from one stage to the other every half hour. Sherwin and the "Cotton Kings" are scheduled to perform with a host of guest entertainers from 4:00 - 5:00 PM. The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will begin at 8:00 PM. This years inductees include: Bobby Vee, Dave Dudley, Sherwin Linton, Marvin Rainwater, KSTP Barndance, The Tornados, Marilyn Sellars, The Trashmen, The Underbeats, The Runaways, The Orbits, Unbelievable Uglies, The Titans, The Greenmen.

I am confident many of you would love the opportunity to attend this day long event and help Sherwin celebrate another career milestone. Advance tickets for this event are available for $15.00 each. Tickets will also be available at the door the day of the event. For those visiting from outside the Twin Cities area, the Medina Entertainment Center does have a hotel. For information on accommodations phone the Medina Inn at 763-478-9770. If interested in advance tickets please contact:

Minnesota Rock Country Hall of Fame · Attn: Mary Voit · 2786 Usher - Brook Park, MN 55007 · 320-679-2975

Sherwin Rocks at the Fine Line Music Cafe October 2003. Photo courtesy Steve Wolf "Other Side Images."

Hibbing, MN is the well publicized birthplace of Bob Zimmerman, also known as Bob Dylan. Dylan, an American Folk / Rock Music Icon is well known for penning such great hits as "Blowin In The Wind," "Don't Think Twice," and "Lay Lady Lay." Many may not know that his 1975 album "Blood On The Tracks" was rated the 16th Greatest Album of All Time in the December 11, 2003 issue of Rolling Stone. Many may not know that this album was originally recorded in New York in 1974 with a group of top-flight studio musicians. Mr. Dylan, however reconsidered what was thought to be the final recording. A group of Twin City musicians lent their talents to this rock masterpiece when Bob Dylan entered Sound 80 recording studios a few days after Christmas in 1974 to lay down the final versions of some of "Blood On The Tracks" most enduring songs. The complete lineup of musicians who backed Bob Dylan on the Minneapolis sessions for his classic album "Blood On The Tracks" reunited for a very special concert celebrating the thirtieth anniversary of the monumental sessions. Guest vocalists handled Mr. Dylan's vocal parts. We were very excited that Sherwin was invited to be among those selected as guest vocalists. This album contains ten songs said to be among the most compelling of Dylan's career. Eric Weissberg, (best known for the song "Dueling Banjos") who played on the New York sessions for "Blood On The Tracks" joined the Minneapolis crew for the show. The names of the Minnesota talent playing on "Blood On The Tracks" never appeared on the album credits. Why? By the time Dylan re-recorded half of "Blood On The Tracks" in Minneapolis, the album jackets had already been printed. The mystery surrounding the proceedings is well placed in Dylan's enigmatic lore.

Sherwin is the first mid-west musician to cover Dylan songs with his recordings of "Girl From The North Country" recorded in Minneapolis 1964, 1965, and Billings, Montana, 1965 and "Spanish Boots Of Spanish Leather" recorded as a duet with Cleo Bee in Chicago in 1968. Two of the "Blood On The Tracks" musicians Kevin Odegard, and Peter Ostroushko were part of the group who recorded Sherwin's 1975 album "Dusty Roads And Prairie Towns" at ASI Studios in Minneapolis. Peter Ostroushko is featured on fiddle and mandolin on Sherwin's latest CD "It Happened In America," and also his Gospel CD "This Is My Story." We were so excited to have Peter as part of the band for Sherwin's "It Happened In America" CD Release Party at the Fine Line Music Cafe last October. Sherwin also appeared on the "Million Dollar Bash" celebrating Dylan's sixtieth birthday. This event was produced by songwriter-activist Paul Metsa at the packed downtown Minneapolis club "First Avenue." This show featured a reunion of the "Blood On The Tracks" Minneapolis studio band.

On March 3, 2004 the "Blood On The Tracks" band took the stage of the sold out 1200 seat Pantages Theatre in Downtown Minneapolis. Sherwin performed "Shelter From The Storm," song number nine on the "Blood On The Tracks" album. Wearing his signature black "Tom Mix" Stetson, long black "Ghost Riders" duster, and black "Stingray" boots Sherwin appeared a very ominous figure on the stage as he gave a very strong delivery of this ballad of love lost.

Scott W. Johnson reviewed the show on the web site "Power Line" and wrote about Sherwin's performance as follows: The inclusion of Linton was an inspiration. We profiled him this past October in "Sherwin Linton Comes Back." For the purposes of last night's festivities, Linton came out dressed looking like the Man in Black and channeled Johnny Cash while performing "Shelter From The Storm." I believe that Dylan has been a lifelong fan of Cash, and Cash was one of Dylan's first and most loyal advocates in Nashville. The group played with a vengeance, hitting highs with Adam Levy's vocal on the incredible "Idiot Wind," with Linton's vocal on "Shelter From The Storm," and with Mary Lee Kortes's vocal on the albums moving closing number, "Buckets of Rain."

The Minneapolis Star Tribune and St. Paul Pioneer Press did wonderful articles about this event. The St. Paul Pioneer Press also published this photo of Sherwin had at work in rehearsals for the show. You can read the complete article by clicking this link: www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/entertainment/8057848.htm

From Left Chris Webber, Kevin Odegard, and Sherwin rehearsing for the "Blood On The Tracks" show.

On Friday, February 27, 2004 Sherwin and "The Cotton Kings" were featured on the FOX-9 Morning Show on KMSP-TV, Minneapolis. Sherwin discussed his new CD "It Happened In America" and the reissue of the highly acclaimed Johnny Cash tribute album "Hello, I'm Not Johnny Cash." The segment included Sherwin and his band performing acoustic segments of "Thank You For Serving", "When I've Got More Time", and "You Can't Get There From Here," original songs from the CD "It Happened In America." Later that evening fans crowded into Lee's Liquor Bar in Minneapolis to see Sherwin and his longtime friend Bob Wootton doing a "Tribute To Johnny Cash." Bob Wootton worked with Johnny Cash as his lead guitar player, following the death of Luther Perkin's, for 30 years through the end of Johnny's live tours. Bob was also featured on the "Cash Only" show at the Cabooze in January.

Sherwin was very excited to take a seat behind the microphone at KFAI Radio as a guest DJ on "Jackson's Juke Joint" with Jackson Buck on February 25, 2004. As many of you know Sherwin spent his early days in the music industry hosting his own radio show on KWAT Radio in Watertown, SD. With Jackson's invitation Sherwin perused his huge collection of vintage Rock-A-Billy vinyl and selected some of his favorites to feature on this one hour segment. Sherwin had a blast and hopes he can spin some more of his favorite old vinyl again some time! A big "Thank You" goes out to Jackson and all of our friends at KFAI Radio. If you're in the Minneapolis area give them a listen at 90.3 FM (Minneapolis) and 106.7 FM (St. Paul).

I've written much lately about Sherwin's appeal to a young audience and how much we appreciate their interest. February 21, 2004 took Sherwin, Pam, and "The Cotton Kings" to Melrose High School in Melrose, MN for an afternoon and evening performance with Country Music performer David Frizzell. David toured with his older brother "Lefty" for several years and after Lefty's death forged a music career of his own scoring some huge duet hits with Shelley West, Dottie West's daughter. Shelley has retired from touring but David is still going strong. Working in a high school auditorium, we had a three member student crew. Having A student crew is enjoyable for us as they are usually hard working, and eager to learn. I thought I would share an e-mail message that we received from one of the crew members.

I was one of the three doing lights for you yesterday at Melrose High School. I just wanted to say thank you so much for the CD, and it was awesome having you guys in Melrose!!! I listened to most of the CD last night, and then finished listening to the rest of it this morning...Amazing!!! I never really cared for Country Music, that is, until yesterday. I was totally amazed by your great talents and beautiful sound! Fantastic crew of musicians you have there! I just have one question for Pam. How long did it take you to be able to sing "I've Been Everywhere?'" We ere amazed at how fast you could sing that!! Sounded very cool!! To tell you the truth, I was amazed about the whole show, not just the first time, but the second time as well. Keep on singing and playing, you sound great!! I hope you guys come back to Melrose soon, because we would really enjoy hosting you again!

Our trip to south Texas was a very nice getaway from the cold January and February air. I thought you might like to see a few photos that are special to me taken during our Texas trip.

This is Sherwin with Tommy Speed, Administrator of the Rio Grande Children's Home following our performance at "Music Fest 2004" in Harlingen, TX. Music Fest is a tool to raise funds for the Rio Grande Children's Home. The "Buckner Bear" Sherwin is holding is purchased as a gift to a child being removed from their home. This bear becomes the child's best friend and confidant during a very difficult process.

This is Sherwin with his long time friends "Wes Thibideau & The Cajun Travelers" from Louisiana following their performance on "Music Fest 2004."

Sherwin & Pam with Rich and Betty Bellert, Entertainment Coordinators at Fiesta Village in Mission, TX. Rich and Betty spend their summers in Minnesota!

Sherwin and I were in the audience at Garcia's dinning and showroom in Nuevo Progresso, Mexico when Sherwin was invited on stage by the popular Mexican singer "Rolando."

Rolando soon became aware that Sherwin could sing Traditional Mexican Mariachi songs in Spanish and for the next couple of numbers Sherwin was a guest soloist with the band at Garcia's!

Sherwin was presented the "Award of Merit" for his outstanding service to the Minnesota Federation of County Fairs at their annual convention held at the Radisson South in Bloomington, MN January 16-18. As many of you know, by attending this convention and others like it we are able to book our County and State Fair engagements. Sherwin has been involved in this organization for over thirty years. This year the Federation invited Sherwin to perform two selections at the Noon Luncheon in tribute to those who have served in our American Armed Forces, past and present. Sherwin performed "Thank You For Serving" from his new CD "It Happened In America" and "The Ragged Old Flag." Later into the awards program Sherwin was presented the "Award of Merit." Sherwin was surprised and honored by this recognition.

Sherwin is presented the "Award of Merit" by Sharon Wessel, President of the Minnesota Federation of Fairs.

The Minnesota Federation of Fairs holds an auction on the Saturday afternoon of the convention. County Fair Boards, and Associate Members of this organization are asked to donate an item to be sold at auction to help raise funds to cover the costs of the convention. This year Sherwin donated the flattop guitar he has played on stage the past four years. Sherwin used this guitar for the final time during the luncheon performance. It was then placed in the auction room with all of the other items up for sale.

Sherwin and the auctioneer discuss the guitar that will be sold at the 4:00 PM auction.

The auction began at 4:00 PM and the guitar was sold about half way into the event. At the time of sale the auctioneer asked Sherwin if he would play it one last time for the buyers gathered. After a short performance of "Folsom Prison Blues" the bidding began.

Bidding started at $100.00 and quickly increased to the final sale price of $600.00! This was the highest price ever paid for an auction item at this event!

Sherwin autographs the guitar for its new owners Joyce & Gary Rundningen from Kandiyohi County.

Sherwin poses for a picture with Joyce & Gary Rundningen from Kandiyohi County, the guitars new owners!

1500 fans packed the "Cabooze" in Minneapolis on January 17, 2004 for the Fourth Annual "Cash Only" Show. Standing shoulder to shoulder they received Sherwin's high energy performance with what could be described as wild enthusiasm! Bob Wootton was also featured on the show. Bob worked with Johnny Cash as his lead guitar player, following the death of Luther Perkin's, for 30 years through the end of Johnny's live tours. This gave Sherwin and Bob the chance to renew an old friendship!

2003 was a wonderful year. We want to thank Midwest radio for all of their support in airplay and you the fans for requesting Sherwin's new titles. A big thank you to retail and distribution for once again placing Sherwin Linton titles on their shelves! There are many great things happening for 2004. Sherwin will release his new CD "It Happened In America" nationally to all Americana radio stations in January. Sherwin and I will be in Texas for a few weeks out of the cold the end of January and the first part of February. Regional and National publicists are assisting us in the continued push for a greater presence in the music industry. We want to thank them for their hard work. Most of all, we thank you the fans for your continued support.

As 2003 draws to a close I'd like to share a few of the kind words shared by journalists this month.

The Minneapolis arts and entertainment publication "City Pages" featured Sherwin in their "Local Music Yearbook '03" complied by Peter S. Scholtes. Peter wrote in the September segment: On the day Johnny Cash dies, opening for Wanda Jackson at Lee's local Country musician Sherwin Linton rises to the occasion with a series of covers that brings the entire crowd to its feet. "It was like the spirit of Johnny Cash came down and took Sherwin over for the evening," says Accident Clearinghouse" singer Quillan Roe.

Rob Hubbard from the St. Paul Pioneer Press featured Sherwin in the "Critics' Picks" section for this weekends entertainment on December 26th. He so kindly wrote: It's been a good year for Sherwin Linton. After four decades in the music business -- performing straight-ahead Traditional Country in just about every roadhouse north of Nashville - Linton found a new audience among clubhoppers of all ages this year. Then, when Johnny Cash passed on, the tributes to the "Man In Black" that Linton had been inserting into his sets for some years became more like an itinerant wake and memorial celebration of Cash's life and music. If Cash is performing a Christmas show somewhere in the great beyond, it probably sounds something like what Linton will be offering at Lee's Liquor this weekend.

David De Young on the web site howwastheshow.com included Sherwin in his list of "How Was the Show's Best of 2003" voting Sherwin into the Top Five Best Minnesota Live Acts.

The following links are some of my favorite press items from 2003. You can click on them and go straight to the feature. I think you'll enjoy them too!

A supreme showman and storyteller, Sherwin Linton's long history in Country Music dates back to the mid 1950's. He's had national hits, recorded an album called "Hello, I'm Not Johnny Cash" (1971) in honor of his longtime friend, and played more county fairs than you can count. In recent years, the "young and hip" crowd has embraced Sherwin warmly. His new and long awaited CD release, "It Happened In America" is pure Sherwin. The 17 original songs written by Sherwin in six different decades tackle subjects ranging from road rage, to guns, to Jesus in a bathtub. All are timely, topical, and laced with Sherwin's special brand of humor. As national entertainment icon, Dave Hoffman said, "It's Perfect, It's Great, It's You!" We are celebrating the release of this new album with two CD Release Parties!

This show will be filmed for viewing on Metro Cable Channel 6 and other cable channels!

This show will feature some of the 25 talented musicians who performed on this CD. In addition of Sherwin's performance you'll enjoy the opening act "Accident Clearinghouse" and talented Nashville dobroist Johnny Bellar. Sherwin, Pam and "The Cotton Kings" will close the evening with an extensive

The state of South Dakota honored Sherwin on his birthday, Monday, July 28, with a Governor's Proclamation of "Sherwin Linton Day" in South Dakota. South Dakota Governor Michael Rounds opened the 2003 South Dakota State Fair with a special address and presentation on the "Centennial Stage." He spoke at considerable length about the outstanding contributions Linton has made to the South Dakota State Fair over the past 30 years. Governor Rounds emphasized Linton's dedication and time spent mentoring young aspiring entertainers to help them gain recognition in the entertainment world. He then called Sherwin on stage and presented him the proclamation which recognized Sherwin's 47 year music career, regional and nationally charted recorded successes, and constant allegiance to his home state of South Dakota.

Alexandra Samson & Mallorie Haley perform on the "Centennial Stage" at the 2003 South Dakota State Fair

I'd like to share one of Sherwin's favorite birthday gifts given to him by our bass player Scott McIlrath. Now Sherwin too has his own Top 10 List!

7) South Dakota legislature abolished archaic confusing "Red Light / Green Light" traffic system.

4a) 4 PM: Mayor awards Sherwin extra set of "Keys To The City" after first set accidentally locked inside city.

3) The Prime Time Restaurant offers special "Sherwin Portion" on menu (right after "Too Much")

2) Out of respect, entire state of South Dakota observes a moment of 60 cycle hum at 12 Noon.

Sherwin, Pam and "The Cotton Kings" Mount Rushmore National Park, June 2003 From the left: Rick Johnson, Pam, Roger Patch, Sherwin, Scott McIlrath

June 28, 2003 marked Sherwin's 10,000 - career performance. Sherwin, Pam & "The Cotton Kings performed that evening at the CAF Air Wing Hanger at Flemming Field in South St. Paul, Minnesota. The CAF Hanger Dance was in conjunction with South St. Paul's "Kaposia Days" celebration. To commemorate this milestone accomplishment Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty proclaimed June 28th "Sherwin Linton Day" in Minnesota. The "CAF Air Wing" is a non-profit organization which works to restore W.W.II aircraft. The hanger also houses a fantastic museum of W.W.II memorabilia. It was a gala evening with vintage planes dotting the airstrip turned dance floor! Our sincere thanks to Kelly Spavin of Experience Shows in St. Paul for all her hard work in promoting this event and our appearance there.

Pictured left to right Drummer Rick Johnson, Mark Robbins, Sherwin, Guitarist Roger Patch.

Sherwin accepts Governor Tim Pawlenty's proclamation of "Sherwin Linton Day" from CAF Air Wing representative Mark Robbins.

Our custom travel truck is nicknamed "Freddy" because in place of the Ford logo on the grill, Sherwin installed a "Fender" guitar logo. Hence, "Freddy Fender". "Freddy's" odometer turned over for the 5th time at 11:00 AM on March 28th in Glencoe, MN. We celebrated by enjoying a bottle of Non-Alcoholic Catawba Champagne along with donuts. As we cracked the cork on the bottle, "Freddy" ceased idling. Kinda Scary! After the brief celebration with our band, Sherwin jumped back in the drivers seat, turned the key, and "Freddy" started right up. Guess after half a million miles he needed a little rest!

Singer Pam Linton was recently awarded a high honor of recognition for her enduring dedication to the values and traditions of America's traditional and old tyme Country music. Pam was inducted into the National Traditional Country Music Hall Of Fame at the annual NTCMA Festival in Avoca, IA on September 1, 2002. The 2002 inductees included Tommy Overstreet, (popular Nashville Country Star of the 60's and 70's), Joe Babcock, (multiple hit song writer and Gospel singer), Mike Johnson (the "Black Yodeler"), Terry Smith (Nashville singer - song writer, "The Far Side Banks Of Jordan") and James Monroe (Bluegrass artist and son of Bill Monroe). The inductees were welcomed on stage before a live audience of 10,000 plus, to receive their awards of induction by Bob Everhart, President of the NTCMA. Pam was nominated for this honor by Teresa Endres, South Dakota's "Yodelin Cowgirl". Pam's husband Sherwin was inducted in the year 2000. As Pam spoke after receiving her award she emphasized how important she and her husband Sherwin feel it is to work with young people to give them an opportunity to perform and develop their talents. Pam has been a member of Sherwin's show 23 years and prior to that had several years of performing experience with her sisters. She has also been included on over a dozen recording projects and CD's both with Sherwin and other artists. Even though Pam is possibly the youngest person to receive this honor she has over 30 years of experience and dedication to the music Americana which we so dearly love. Congratulations Pam!

Pam Linton & Bob Everhart, Internationally Known Folk Singer and President NTCMA September 1, 2002.

On November 2nd Sherwin was honored with induction into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame. This was such a special evening for us. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the Holiday Inn in New Ulm, MN followed by a video presentation and the induction of five new members to this exclusive group. This years inductees include: "The Barbary Coast Dixieland Band", "Philip Brunelle", "Raymond Meidl", "Wally Pikal", and "Sherwin Linton". The evening entertainment was provided by "The Barbary Coast Dixieland Band." We were so blessed to share this special occasion with members of our family and many friends.

Sherwin And His Close Friend Dick Moebakken. Dick is one of the original "Cotton Kings"!

Our recent performances have taken us to some new venues. Last fall Sherwin met a young man named Matt Pudas. Matt plays guitar, writes songs, and is a member of the "White Iron Band". This seven piece group plays every Thursday night at the "Five Corners Saloon" in the Cedar - Riverside area of Minneapolis. They perform the old Traditional Country Music, along with original songs, and some Classic Rock. Matt invited Sherwin, Pam and "The Cotton Kings" to perform at "The Five Corners Saloon" on May 10th. The "White Iron Band" opened the evening and Sherwin and "The Cotton Kings" took the stage about 11:30 p.m. The audience, many clad in "Grateful Dead" t-shirts, just loved the show. Sherwin performed a variety of original Folk and Rock-A-Billy songs and closed the show with a thirty minute tribute to Johnny Cash. They called Sherwin back to the stage for three encores!

Minnesota native Bob Dylan turned sixty this year. Sherwin was invited to participate in a "Bob Dylan Tribute Show" at "First Avenue" in Minneapolis. Since Sherwin is considered to be the first mid-west artist to record Dylan compositions, including "Girl From The North Country", recorded three times in 1965 and a hit version of "Spanish Boots Of Spanish Leather" (duet with Cleo Bee) during a series of sessions in Chicago in 1968. For the tribute show Sherwin performed "Spanish Boots Of Spanish Leather" and "With God On Our Side" accompanying himself on the guitar. Sherwin's performance was featured on the 10:00 p.m. news on WCCO-TV in Minneapolis. The tribute show also featured host Paul Mesta, G.B. Leighton and the original, Bob Dylan "Blood On The Tracks Band". Over twenty five acts performed and it was sure an exciting evening.

Many times each week I'm asked about my sister Brittany and what is happening in her music career. As some of you may remember, Brittany and I used to work together as part of Sherwin's show. Brittany married Sherwin's son Buddy and they are now living in Nashville, TN where she continues to pursue her music. Brittany is currently touring with Lorrie Morgan as background vocalist and band leader. She has also done the background vocal work on several of Lorrie's albums.

Brittany is working with co-writer/producer, Michael Salacuse on a new original music project of her own. They have put together a great web site with the help of web designer Mark Wearsch. The site features some wonderful photos, song clips, and also a segment about the construction of her project. Brittany was gracious enough to feature me in this area of her site! Sherwin says there is more information about me on Brittany's site than on ours. Make sure to take time to sign her guest book!

2001 will be a milestone year in music production for Sherwin. He has presently completed one new project, and he hopes to complete two others before the end of the year. In addition to these the "Heartland Centennial" project, originally released in 1990 on cassette (which includes the song "Mom & Dad") has just been released on CD. Sherwin discovered a recording of the song "That Little Boy Of Mine" in his closet of master tapes. This was recorded at the same time as the "Heartland" project but was not included in the original package. With this song added, digital mastering, and new graphics the "Heartland Centennial" CD or cassette will need to be a part of every fans collection.

"This Is My Story" a collection of eight traditional Gospel hymns was released on CD and cassette in July. Included in the project are; The Church in The Wildwood · What A Friend We Have In Jesus · In The Garden · Love Lifted Me · The Old Rugged Cross · When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder · Rock Of Ages · Blessed Assurance This project was recorded at Salmagundi Studios in Northfield, MN. Salmagundi specializes in acoustic recording on vintage instruments. Sherwin has always loved the swelling sound of a pump organ and finally found a studio that had one to record with. Londa Hentges, the daughter of Evangelist Lowell Lundstrom and musical director at Celebration Church in Burnsville, MN played this majestic old instrument. Sherwin brought some recording firsts to Salmagundi Studios when he invited his friend Ed Wilcox to play "Mixing Bowls", "Stemware", and the "Saw" on this project. The saw is a standard carpenters saw played by stroking a bow across the straight edge while holding the handle between the knees and bending the blade to deliver different notes. The resulting sound resembles a human voice but is unlike any other musical instrument. Ed has collected the mixing bowls over many years of searching through second hand stores to find all the notes needed to play a two octave scale. They are played by striking them with special mallets. "Stemware" consists of various size goblets which Ed plays by rubbing dampened fingers on the rims until a ringing note sustains.

Other instrumentalists featured on this project include Johnny Beller of Ashland City, TN. Johnny is recognized as one of the worlds most innovative dobro stylists. He has worked with such Folk and Bluegrass luminaries as "The Stoneman Family" and "Wilma Lee Cooper". Johnny also played string bass on many of the tracks included in this project. Peter Ostroushko of Minneapolis, MN is featured playing fiddle and mandolin. Peter has long been a mainstay in the Minneapolis musicians community and played on a 1975 album that Sherwin recorded, "Dusty Roads And Prairie Towns". Peter has traveled world wide and toured and recorded with Minnesota native Bob Dylan. Martin Vigesaa has been a popular member of "The Cotton Kings" band for several years. Martin added a great touch playing flat top guitar. This combination of unique and talented traditional music instrumentalists gives this concept project a beautiful spiritual inspiration that the listener will immediately recognize when hearing it. If you have attended one of Sherwin's Gospel Shows you will love this project. He sings these favorite hymns with such warmth and feeling.

Christmas will be right around the corner sooner than any of us think. This holiday season we will have a new cassette and CD of seasonal selections. Recording of this new project began back in January and we hope to have it released well in advance of the holidays. This project features Sherwin, Pam & "The Cotton Kings" (Martin Vigesaa, Doc Sloane, and Scott McIlrath) performing all of the selections featured in the 2000 Christmas Show. The twenty three selections included in the project are; Christmas Times A Comin · Winter Song · Winter Wonderland · Christmas Carols By The Old Corral · Good Ol' Fashioned Country Christmas · Old Christmas Card · Santa Got A D.W.I. · To Heck With Ole Santa Claus · Ho Ho Ho And A Bottle Of Rhum · Christmas Island · Mele Kalikimaka · Silver Bells · Truckin Trees · Pretty Paper · Rock-A-Billy Christmas · Jingle Bell Rock · Rockin Around The Christmas Tree · Run Rudolph Run · Ruby Red Nose · Christmas Guest · Go Tell It On The Mountain · Merry Christmas Minnesota

This project marks the first time Sherwin has used his complete band in recording since 1971 when he produced the highly acclaimed "Hello I'm Not Johnny Cash" project at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls, SD. Sherwin has re-recorded several selections for his 1986 "Christmas Memories" album for this project. But with twenty two selections in all you'll find many of your favorite holiday classics here as well.

Last but not least "It Happened In America" was slated for production in 2000. With Sherwin's surgery this project has been the most delayed. All of the photos and art work concepts have been patiently waiting for Sherwin to record sixteen original songs he has composed. The songs represent a portion of the previously not recorded material Sherwin has penned between 1956 and the present. With the help of co-producer Dave Burk production of this project began in May at Salmagundi Studios in Northfield, MN. Many of the sixteen selections fall into the category of contemporary "Americana Folk Music" with a slight satirical edge. Also included are biographical and love songs, and an instrumental selection Sherwin composed in 1959 entitled "Sentimental Melody". There's a message and story in every song! Because of our extremely heavy summer schedule Sherwin was not able to spend the long hours in the studio necessary to finish and mix all of these tracks in the time frame he had hoped to. He says this project may not be completed and available until early next year.

Possible cover photo for "It Happened In America" (seated from left) Bob Zopp, Martin Vigesaa (standing from left) Steve Murray, Pam Linton, Sherwin Linton

Song titles include: I'm Gonna Turn Over A New Leaf · She Made Love To Elvis · You Can't Get There From Here · When I've Got More Time · Sick, Sober, And Sorry And Stuck In Stickney South Dakota Singin' Sunday Mornin Comin Down In September In The Rain · There's Always Next Year · The Gospel Truth · Forever On The Stage · Rock-A-Billy · I Love My Welfare Darlin · If You Can Remember It You Weren't There · Road Rage Rudy · We Need A Lot More Guitars And A Lot Less Guns · Blame It On El Nino · Jesus In A Bathtub · Sentimental Melody · Thank You For Serving

Sherwin is often asked how long it takes to produce a recording project. That answer has many variables. However, recently I recall Sherwin answering that question by saying, "Well, I've been working on one project since 1956 and I'm not done yet!" He was referring to the stack of acetate demonstration disks he had recorded at KWAT Radio in Watertown, SD. Sherwin discovered these while visiting his Mother in the early 1980's. When he asked her what she had been doing with the pile of "forgotten disks" she had on her phonograph she replied,"I had some friends over for coffee and I was playing some of your music for them." By the 1980's Sherwin