Honky Tonk Heroes to perform July 23 at Community Plaza

ELLWOOD CITY ? The Honky Tonk Heroes are bringing their unique sound to the Ellwood City Community Plaza Stage on Saturday.

The leader of the group, Ron Lantz, of Wampum, said they are excited to be playing in the heart of downtown Ellwood City.

"We have earned the title 'Honky Tonk Heroes' because we are all older guys who in the day played in bars, and bars that were called 'Honky Tonks,'" he said.

The group will be playing a variety of music from country, to Creedence Clearwater Revival, and a bit of gospel.

The band members are Lantz, who plays bass and sings, Tony Lang of Freedom on guitar, Scottie White of New Castle on the harmonica, Tony Barge of Ellwood City on guitar and vocals, and Charlie McVay Jr. of Marion Township on the steel guitar. Playing the drums is Stefan Rodriguez, originally from Chicago, but now living in Monaca.

"These guys are all excellent musicians. Tony Barge is the voice of our band, and he deserves the best band behind him. Tony is a legend, and Ellwood City should be proud of him. He's not just a great performer, he is a great person," Lantz said.

Barge was raised in the music industry as his parents, Howard and Rose Barge, were musicians. His mother's band, Rose and the Rhythm Rangers, played locally and had a weekly radio show. Barge had his first band when he was 15, and is still making music.

"I've always sang traditional country music, but I'm enjoying doing this great mix of music, and I'm looking forward to seeing friends at the Plaza," he said.

The concert is at 7 p.m. in the Ellwood City Community Plaza, as part of the annual Ellwood City Summer Concert Series. In case of rain, the concert will be moved to the Lincoln High School Auditorium.

This article originally appeared on Ellwood City Ledger: Honky Tonk Heroes to perform Saturday at Ellwood City Community Plaza