Steve Harris of Hillbilly Vegas Collaborates with Paul Rodgers on New Album
Hillbilly Vegas, a southern rock band from Oklahoma, features members who have shared the stage with Paul Rodgers, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and the voice of Free and Bad Company. The band shares a manager, David Spero, from Cleveland, creating a close connection with Paul Rodgers. This relationship paved the way for Rodgers to contribute “Mr. Midnight,” one of his compositions, to Hillbilly Vegas’ latest album, A La Mode, released through Quarto Valley Records. In a unique collaboration, Rodgers lends his iconic voice to the track, sharing lead vocals with Steve Harris, Hillbilly Vegas’ vocalist.
“Mr. Midnight” captures a bluesy sound reminiscent of the Eagles’ classic “Heartache Tonight,” infused with the spirit of Bad Company whenever Rodgers’ vocals grace the song. Steve Harris shared that Todd Ronning, who had previously played bass for Bad Company, brought the music for “Bound to Run” to the band, inspiring an emotional track with powerful twin guitars. The heartfelt ballad “Find Me Yesterday” draws influence from Lynyrd Skynyrd and Creedence Clearwater Revival, featuring poignant lyrics penned by Harris himself. Inspired by personal loss, Harris poured his emotions into this track, reflecting on cherished memories of his late mother.
“Every Jukebox in Town” takes on a lively, barroom sound with a country flair, calling back to the Black Oak Arkansas’ energetic style. Harris’s appreciation for classic rock influences shines through, paying homage to iconic musicians from his youth. The video for “I Hope You Know” echoes the funky vibes of James Gang, an era Harris considers the pinnacle of rock music. A standout track, Hillbilly Vegas’ rendition of Frankie Miller’s “Down the Honkytonk” captivated Miller himself, a testament to the band’s musical prowess and deep-rooted respect for music legends.
Closing the album, “Miss America” channels the raw energy of AC/DC, blending keyboards and driving guitar riffs. Harris’ commitment to honoring his Native American heritage and supporting veterans shines through on this track, highlighting the band’s dedication to their roots and values. As a proud member of the Cherokee nation, Harris is actively involved in initiatives like Operation Vet NOW, recognizing and honoring the sacrifices of veterans.
Throughout A La Mode, Hillbilly Vegas delivers a diverse musical palette, traversing various genres while staying true to their distinctive sound. With contributions from legendary musicians like Paul Rodgers and Frankie Miller, the album is a testament to the band’s talent and versatility. As Harris noted, the ’70s era of rock continues to inspire their music, resonating with audiences across generations. By weaving personal stories and musical influences into their songs, Hillbilly Vegas creates a powerful and heartfelt listening experience for fans old and new.