Country’s Bill Sanderson & Southern Rock’s Sweet Home Alabama Saddle Up At Viva Tequila Henderson To Benefit The Las Vegas High School & Jr High Rodeo Team Thursday Night July 16!

 

Pictured left: Bill Sanderson
Pictured right: Sweet Home Alabama & The Las Vegas High School & Jr High Rodeo Team

The Las Vegas music scene doesn’t just give back — it saddles up and rides in full force, and Thursday night in Henderson proved it. Country troubadour Bill Sanderson brought the twang, Sweet Home Alabama rolled in with that Southern‑rock thunder, and Viva Tequila Restaurant & Bar threw open its doors like a honky‑tonk ready for a throwdown, all to support the Las Vegas High School & Jr. High Rodeo Team.

From the first guitar lick, the place was jumping like a dance hall on a Saturday night. Twenty percent of every plate and pour went straight to the rodeo kids, and raffle tickets were whipping through the air like someone kicked up dust on a dusty backroad. We dug into onion rings, chicken strips, and fries, washed it down with ice‑cold drinks, and settled in for three-plus hours of country soul and Southern‑rock fire that kept the crowd shoulder‑to‑shoulder and loud enough to rattle the windows.

Inside Viva Tequila, the vibe hit that perfect crossroads — country comfort meeting Southern‑rock swagger. The twang warmed the room, the guitar grit sharpened it, and together they wrapped the crowd in that familiar, boots‑on‑the‑ground Americana glow. Every raffle ticket bought, every plate served, every chorus belted out felt like another spark tossed into the night.

This wasn’t just Vegas showing up — it was Viva Tequila, the musicians, and the community standing tall, lifting their young rodeo riders with every note, every cheer, every stomp of a boot on the floor.

With a packed house, food and drinks covering every table, and raffle tickets flying like rodeo arena confetti, Thursday night stayed alive from start to finish. The energy never dipped, the crowd never thinned, and the support never slowed. By the time the amps cooled, one thing was clear — Thursday night was a runaway win for the Las Vegas High School & Jr. High Rodeo Team, the kind of country‑and‑Southern‑rock‑soaked community victory that sends everyone home grinning!

{My Take}

The Las Vegas local music scene came riding in full force Thursday night, boots down and guitars up. Bill Sanderson brought that smooth, down‑south country croon — the kind that feels like a warm porch light on a summer night — while Sweet Home Alabama rolled in with Southern‑rock thunder that would make Lynyrd Skynyrd crack a proud grin. And Viva Tequila Restaurant & Bar swung its doors wide open, hearts even wider, turning the whole place into a desert‑side honky‑tonk with purpose.

It wasn’t just a show — it was a country‑and‑Southern‑rock throwdown for a cause, a night where twang met grit, community met rhythm, and Vegas proved once again it knows how to show up when it counts. For the Las Vegas High School & Jr High Rodeo Team.

For that, Vegas tips its hat to each and every one of you!

Y'all flat-out tore it up!

Gary England

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A Five‑Star Afternoon And Night With Family Food Fun & Laughs At Dave & Buster’s Downtown Summerlin NV

I write articles and blogs about music, entertainment & sports. What better than to write about an awesome restaurant & hangout that has all three! Plus, some of the best-tasting stadium food out there!

Dave & Buster’s in Downtown Summerlin is one of those places that just makes you smile the second you walk in. Bright lights, great energy, and the kind of atmosphere where families, friends, and birthday crews (Like ours) all blend together for a night of pure fun. The Mrs. and I started things off with the flatbread pizza, and wow—this pizza pie was a total winner. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor from the first bite to the last. Meanwhile, our birthday girl and her grandma shared a plate of boneless honey BBQ wings with fries, and both of them gave it the big thumbs‑up. When two generations agree on the same dish, you know it’s good.

After dinner, we headed straight for the games, and that’s where the night really took off. Skee‑ball, basketball hoops, racing games, themed adventures—you name it, they’ve got it. There’s more than enough to keep everyone busy, from the littlest players to the grown‑ups who still love a good arcade challenge. The vibe was fun, the décor cool, and our server, Dee, made the whole experience even better with his super-fast service and great menu knowledge.

The food, staff, the games, and the entertainment fun factor: Five stars all the way!

Dave & Buster’s, you made our night, can’t wait to come back for round two!

You Blew Me Away!

Gary England

Dave & Buster's Facebook

Dave & Buster's Official Website

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Las Vegas Local Music Scene Reloaded: Local Music Venues That Have Taken The Spotlight In Las Vegas

 After the closings of Count's Vamp'd late last month, and Club Madrid inside Sunset Station Hotel just a few weeks ago. I'm pretty sure that most local music fans (Including myself) have been eagerly waiting for another music venue or two to step up and fill the void in our local music scene as far as showcasing local bands is concerned. I'm here today to recognize two of these music venues that have stepped up their game and have taken the lead in booking shows with our local music talent (Bands).

There are a dozen or so local music venues around town that you can count on that always bring their A Game, supporting our local music scene and bands. Two of these venues really have caught my attention this past month. 

Beginning with the Tuscany Suites Casino. 

When I looked at their Facebook page and website, I've got to say that Tuscany's entertainment calendar is really impressive! They've got a show for every music taste there is! Plus, they shine the bright spotlights on our local music scene and bands! Take a look at their upcoming calendar for August, and you'll see just what I mean. 

Tuscany Entertainment 

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Another music venue (Awesome Restaurant) that stands out in Las Vegas and has my attention is the Bootlegger Italian Bistro

Talking about turning the volume up in our local music scene! The Bootlegger Spotlights Live Entertainment every night of the week! 

Bootlegger Entertainment

Plus, with the emergence of MOTORMOUTH Promotions (July 25th Music Presentation). Check out the event flyer above. I expect the Bootlegger Bistro to be a leader in the Las Vegas Music and Entertainment scenes for many years in the future! 

Delicious food, live entertainment every night of the week, and MOTORMOUTH Promotions handling local bands' promotions. Looks like Las Vegas has another winner!

Sending out big thanks to the Tuscany and to the Bootlegger Italian Bistro for helping keep live music alive in Las Vegas!

GE

Could Deep Pockets And A Wing And A Prayer Save The Day For Count's Vamp'd Las Vegas

 Over the last week or so, losing one of our most popular Las Vegas local night spots in town has become a very big possibility. There has been a ton of speculation from musicians and fans about how this might play out. Will Count's Vamp'd actually close its doors on June 28th? Will someone purchase the popular Rock Bar and save the day for us fans? 

Besides the asking price, it takes some pretty deep pockets to keep a Rock Bar afloat.

How much does it cost to keep the doors open?

Under the neon glow of the Las Vegas skyline, where Elvis impersonators share sidewalks with tourists and slot machines hum in the background, a different kind of entertainment keeps the city’s heart pounding — live rock music. From gritty dive bars to high-energy local clubs, rock venues are a staple of Vegas nightlife. But behind the blaring guitars and flowing drinks lies a far less glamorous reality, running a rock club bar in Las Vegas is a high-stakes financial endeavor. Just how much does it cost to keep the amps buzzing and the beer taps flowing?

The budget for a typical rock club bar in Las Vegas can vary widely depending on size, location, and scope. 

Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect for a mid-sized local venue (capacity: 100–300 people):

If the land and building are purchased. Some of the listed costs below will not pertain.

All costs mentioned are general overall figures. Costs may vary.

Startup Costs (One-Time):

Lease deposit & rent (3–6 months)	$20,000 – $50,000
Renovation/build-out (stage, soundproofing, etc.)	$30,000 – $100,000
Sound & lighting equipment	$20,000 – $75,000
Furniture & fixtures (bar, tables, seating)	$10,000 – $30,000
Licenses & permits (liquor, business, health)	$5,000 – $15,000
Initial inventory (alcohol, mixers, food)	$5,000 – $15,000+
POS system & security	$3,000 – $10,000
Marketing & branding (signage, initial promos)	$5,000 – $20,000
Miscellaneous (legal, insurance, contingency)	$10,000 – $25,000
Total Startup Range	$108,000 – $340,000+

Monthly Operating Costs:

Rent	$5,000 – $15,000
Payroll (bartenders, sound techs, security)	$15,000 – $35,000
Inventory restock	$5,000 – $15,000+
Utilities & insurance	$2,000 – $5,000
**Entertainment (bands, DJs, etc.)	$5,000 – $20,000
Marketing & promotions	$1,000 – $5,000
Maintenance & misc.	$1,000 – $3,000
Total Monthly Range	$34,000 – $98,000+

{My Take}

As you can see by these estimated costs, it takes a ton of dough to keep the club on go!

For fans, a rock club is where memories are made — that first live show, the surprise encore, the night your favorite local band blew the roof off. But behind every epic night is a serious commitment of time, money, and heart from the people who run the place. It’s not cheap, and it’s not easy. 

So, until June 28th, be sure to enjoy the moment! Know this, you’re not just watching an awesome band onstage, you’re part of something built on passion, grit, and a whole lot of love!

Info & Tickets

No matter how June 28th plays out. Las Vegas owes Danny and Korie Koker a ton of thanks & respect. 

Good luck in the future!

GE

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For Information & Ticket Sales 

 Count's Vamp'd Official Website

Count's Vamp'd Facebook

"End of an Era: Count's Vamp'd Closes After Years of Rocking Las Vegas"

 The hearts of many fans (Mine Included) have stopped!

My 1st instinct as a writer, journalist & fan is to ask the question: 

Is there anything that the fans (And Local Bands) can do to save OUR Rock Bar?

Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill isn't just another bar—it is a sanctuary for rock and metal fans in a city known for glitz, glam, and entertainment. Founded by Danny “Count” Koker, star of the History Channel’s Counting Cars, the venue opened in 2011 in the former home of Feelgoods on West Sahara Avenue. What followed was a 14-year run that transformed Vamp’d into a cornerstone of Las Vegas’s live music scene.

From Grammy-winning artists to local tribute bands, the stage at Count’s Vamp’d has welcomed acts from all levels of the rock spectrum. Fans could catch intimate shows from rock legends one night and discover rising stars the next. The venue's dedication to genuine, no-frills rock music earned it a fiercely loyal following (Me Included).

Over the years, Count’s Vamp’d has played host to unforgettable performances from bands like LA Guns, Faster Pussycat, Enuff Z’Nuff, and even Michael Monroe of Hanoi Rocks. It's become a second home for tribute bands honoring the likes of Van Halen, KISS, Metallica, and more—bringing nostalgia and energy to fans craving classic rock experiences in an up-close setting.

Vamp’d is also unique in offering fans an intimate meet-and-greet environment, often with band members mingling after shows. 

Unlike the sprawling Las Vegas Strip venues, Vamp’d has soul—and it has heart!

There has been no official statement released detailing the specific reasons for the closure at the time of this writing.

The closure of Count’s Vamp’d leaves a HUGE void in the Las Vegas music landscape. As one of the few off-Strip venues catering specifically to rock and metal fans, its absence will be deeply felt by musicians and concertgoers alike.

The legacy of Count’s Vamp’d will echo for years to come. It's more than a bar. It was a heartbeat of a community, a launching pad for artists, and a home for rockers who found refuge in its dim lights and thunderous sound.

In a city built on reinvention, one can only hope that the spirit of Count’s Vamp’d finds new life in another form.

 If there isn't anything that we, the fans and local bands, can do to save OUR Rock Bar....

Come Saturday, June 28th. 

The local music scene will be losing a legend!

Rock in peace, Count's Vamp’d. You will be missed by many !!

GE

Count's Vamp'd Facebook

Count's Vamp'd Official Website

Suggestions On How To Celebrate Your Birthday In Las Vegas

 If there’s one city on Planet Earth built for over-the-top birthday celebrations, it’s Las Vegas. 

Whether you're turning 21 or 51, or a bit older (Like Me Today), Las Vegas dares you to go bigger, bolder, and a little wilder on your special day. From sky-high thrills to unforgettable (Instagram-worthy) ways to celebrate your big day in Sin City, LV.

Here are some crazy things to do to celebrate your special day of the year.

Rent a Party Bus or Limo – Cruise the Strip with drinks, music, and friends. Many include club entry packages.

Nightclub VIP Experience – Book a table at places like XS, Omnia, or Marquee with bottle service and a dedicated host.

Pool Party Rager – Celebrate at a day club like Wet Republic, Encore Beach Club, or Drai’s Beachclub.

Skydive Over the Desert – Tandem skydive for an unforgettable rush.

Stratosphere Thrill Rides – Ride Insanity, X-Scream, or Big Shot at the top of The STRAT.

Drive a Supercar – Race Ferraris and Lamborghinis at the Speed Vegas or Dream Racing tracks.

Go to a Wild Show – See Absinthe for raunchy circus-style comedy, or Magic Mike Live for a bold, cheeky thrill.

Drag Brunch – A loud, proud celebration at Senor Frog’s or The Garden.

Walk The Strip - Take a walk, look around, grab an adult drink or two. The party will definitely find you. Check out Harrah's Carnaval Court. 

Fremont Street Zipline & Bar Crawl – Fly down SlotZilla, then hit bars with live music and street performers. Always a crazy crowd to party with.

Private Helicopter Tour – Fly over the Strip at night with champagne in hand.

Dine at a Celebrity Chef Restaurant – Try Hell’s Kitchen, Nobu, or Eiffel Tower Restaurant for a high-end meal.

Shoot Machine Guns – Head to Battlefield Vegas or Machine Guns Vegas for a full Rambo moment.

Do a Themed Photoshoot – Dress up 1920s, cowboy, or mob-style and get pro pics taken downtown.

{My Take}

No matter how wild or weird you want your birthday to be, Las Vegas delivers. From adrenaline highs and rooftop views to all-night parties and over-the-top indulgences, the city is built to make memories. So whether you're going big with friends or just treating yourself to something outrageous, Vegas is the ultimate birthday playground. Just remember—what happens here makes one hell of a birthday story.

As for this birthday boy. An hour or two at my favorite casino (Santa Fe Station), A few rounds of blackjack, a couple of hot slot machines, and a frozen Margarita or two. 

Makes for a Happy Birthday to me. :-)

GE

What Makes A Good Music Bar Venue In Las Vegas?

 One of my favorite places to hang out in Las Vegas is a small, friendly bar that offers live music, good food, and drinks. 

A good Las Vegas music bar venue should combine the right atmosphere, sound quality, and entertainment variety to stand out in a city packed with live music options. 

According to local music fans. Here are some key elements that help make these venues stand out in LV. (Las Vegas)

Location & Atmosphere

Situated in a vibrant area easy to get to locations.

(Fremont Street, The Strip, Main Streets, Arts District, etc.).

Unique décor that matches the music vibe (rock, blues, jazz, country, etc.).

Comfortable seating and standing areas for different audience preferences.

Sound & Stage Setup

High-quality sound system with well-balanced acoustics.

A well-lit stage that provides good visibility for performers and audiences.

Proper spacing for both intimate acoustic acts and full bands.

Drink & Food Selection

A solid drink menu featuring signature cocktails, craft beer, or themed drinks.

Food that complements the music scene (bar bites, upscale dining, or themed dishes).

Reasonable pricing, considering Vegas’ tourist-heavy crowd.

Entertainment Variety

A mix of live music genres to attract different crowds (rock, blues, country, jazz, tribute bands, etc.).

Special themed nights, open mic events, or jam sessions.

A good rotation of local and touring musicians to keep things fresh.

Crowd & Ambience

A balance between locals and tourists for an authentic Vegas feel.

A well-managed entry system (door cover, guest list, or VIP sections).

Extra Features

Outdoor patio or rooftop options for a different vibe.

Gaming elements like pool tables, darts, or video poker machines.

Merch area for bands to sell CDs, shirts, or memorabilia.

{My Take}

"Las Vegas has no shortage of incredible music bar venues, each offering a unique experience. Have a favorite spot or a hidden gem that I should check out? I know I have mine!

Drop a comment below and let me know where you go for the best live music in town!"

GE

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