Asheville’s popular “Blues Chanteuse” Peggy Ratusz and an impressive group of singers and musicians come together to celebrate the music of Linda Ronstadt for the third concert of the 2014 Summer Tracks Series. Sponsored by Brights Creek, Torch Singer, A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 11, in Roger’s Park.
As with most people who came of age in the late 1960s and 70s, Ratusz grew up idolizing Ronstadt and her music. “Linda Ronstadt’s Don’t Cry Now is one of the first albums I bought with my own money,” says Ratusz. Arguably one of most successful female singers of all time, Ronstadt’s long list of hits spans more than four decades.
When news broke last year of Ronstadt’s losing her voice due to Parkinson’s disease, Ratusz felt called to put together a show honoring Ronstadt and her contributions to music. Joining Ratusz in this homage are torch singers Paula Hanke and Amy LaDeroute, along with musicians Ken LaDeroute (guitars), Aaron Price (keys/guitars), Tony Black (bass) and James Kylen.
Torch Singer, A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt features performances of Linda Ronstadt’s signature songs—including Blue Bayou, Desperado, It’s So Easy, That’ll Be the Day, Different Drum, You’re No Good, Lose Again—as well as some of her lesser known or “B side” gems.
As with all Summer Tracks concerts, the show is free, though a voluntary donation at the gate is encouraged.
Audience donations along with the generous sponsorships of local businesses and individuals make these shows possible. JR’s wood-fired pizzas, ice cream, water and soft drinks will be for sale.
Summer Tracks is produced by the Town of Tryon in affiliation with Peter Eisenbrown of Blockparty Productions. The popular and well-attended series attracts people from all over the region.  Last year, the concerts drew an estimated 2,000 people to downtown Tryon.
For more information about Summer Tracks and the performers, contact the Town Of Tryon at 828-859-6655 and visit www.summertracks.com or www.firstpeaknc.com.

Schedule for 2014 Summer Tracks:

June 6:    Phil & Gaye Johnson (Folk-Traditional) open for Tellico (Bluegrass, Traditional)
Sponsored by Heartwood Gallery and The Purple Onion of Saluda, NC

June 20:    Russ Wilson Swing Orchestra (15 Piece Big Band!)
Sponsored by Tryon Downtown Development Association

July 11:    Torch Singer, A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt – Featuring Peggy Ratusz, Paula Hanke, Amy LaDeroute with 4-piece band.
Sponsored by Bright’s Creek

July 25:    Sol Driven Train (World Beat-Southern-Funk-Rock. The evening opens with their children’s show)
Sponsored by Green River Adventures and The Gorge of Saluda, NC

Aug 8:    Gigi Dover & The Big Love (Soulful Americana)
Sponsored by Mr. Jerry Steele

Aug 22:    Bob Sinclair Duo opens for The Lazy Birds (Americana, Swing)
Sponsored by Tryon Fine Arts Center

– article sumbitted
by Peter Eisenbrown