As we are getting closer to our next show at the Punxsutawney Eagles this Saturday, we’ve got some ominous news to reveal. We’ve been tossing out some hints about it here and there, but now it’s time to make an official public broadcast. A few months ago, our guitarist, John announced that he was retiring after about 50 years of playing out. Yes, he started young and began this craft with his father’s band many moons ago! While this wasn’t totally unexpected, the news still came as a bit of a shock to us even though he had hinted about it a few times before. Let’s just say, we didn’t think he would totally quit because we know how much he loves playing music. But we understand that things change in life, and as the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end.” John simply wants to spend more time with his family now. Afterall, he does have like a million grandkids, so who can blame him? We totally respect his decision and wish him nothing but the best! We just hope he knows how much we’re going to miss him. Not only his raw musical talent, but his fun personality and especially those hilarious stories he shared about all his years of gigging. Thanks for all the good times, John! We all had a blast!

So, why did we wait so long to make this reveal? Well, simply because we thought we might have John for a few more shows. Obviously, hearing the news of him leaving was another setback for 8YL, but we are moving forward and we’re fortunate that we’ve found a reputable replacement who has been working his tail off the last several weeks to learn our material. He’s a young lad, but quite talented to say the least. He is ready to roll with us now! Since he is a bit quiet and laid-back, we’re going to keep his name under our hats for just a bit longer. So, if you want to find out who he is sooner than later, you’ll have to come see us this Saturday at The Eagles in Punxsy!