Country singer to entertain fans at Elliott Hall of Music

By Jenny Jones
Staff Writer

Neal McCoy, a famous country singer who will be performing Friday at the Elliott Hall of Music, became interested in performing when he saw the Jackson 5 on American Bandstand.

"I thought, 'that's what I'd like to do when I grow up,'" said McCoy.

Taking that vision and participating in musicals and choirs throughout high school, McCoy decided to pursue a career in music.

After performing in numerous dance clubs and bars, he was discovered when he won a talent contest in Dallas.

It was through this experience that McCoy got the opportunity to meet country music legend Charlie Pride. McCoy became Pride's opening act and held the position for a decade.

"That's when I started playing and listening to country music," said McCoy.

Playing everything from his own songs, such as "The Shake," to big-band songs to rap to disco, McCoy and his band are known for their spontaneity on stage.

"He loves the audience and the stage," said Leah Taylor, McCoy's publicity manager. "He can utilize his voice to dip into all different types of music."

Not only is McCoy personable on stage, but he is also accessible to his fans. One way that he keeps strong ties with his fans is by having what he calls a "meet and greet" with the people in his fan club before every show.

During these "meet and greets" McCoy said he enjoys meeting and talking with his fans.

"The band and I think we're very good at making people happy and when we make them happy, it makes us happy," McCoy said.

Although his fame has been growing, McCoy said he can still go places without everyone recognizing him.

"If they listen to country music, they know who I am, but in some places you go, people don't listen to country music; I'm OK there," said McCoy.

Performing approximately 150 shows a year, McCoy still manages to keep his family life together. With a wife of 20 years and two children, he considers himself lucky.

"I'm having my cake by having a great career and I've been able to eat it too by having a great family," said McCoy.

With his music career and his new album, "24-7-365," underway, McCoy also has ambitions for acting.

"But I'm not the hottest act in the world right now, so I'm sure a lot of people aren’t thinking of me when they're thinking of leading roles in movies," McCoy said.

· McCoy will be performing Friday at the Elliott Hall of Music. Tickets are $21 and $25 and are available at the Purdue box office at 494-3933 or 800-914-SHOW.

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