What do Jim Morrison, Bobby Darin, Karen Carpenter, Harry Chapin and Mama Cass have in common?  Yes, they were all stars in the music universe…and they’re also all dead.  Maestro Jeffrey Reed, Orchestra Kentucky, The Rewinders and the Retro Singers join forces for Rock `n Roll Heaven, a nostalgic journey to that big concert hall in the sky.

“These artists passed on pretty much in the prime of their careers,” commented Maestro Reed.  “This concert is really an homage to their talents that should stir some memories, taking the audience (and the musicians) to places in their own lives and emotions.” 

Rock’n Roll Heaven is the second concert in Orchestra Kentucky’s Retro Series.  This series, the brainchild of Maestro Reed, began with BeatleMadness in August, 2001.  The series has grown in popularity in Bowling Green and the region.  “Orchestra Kentucky’s Retro shows are some of the most creative programming that exists in any professional orchestra in the country,” commented Orchestra Kentucky’s Executive Director Darrell G. Edwards.

The concert chronicles the early days of rock `n roll, from Bill Haley’s Rock Around the Clock, Buddy Holly’s It Doesn’t Matter Anymore and Sam Cooke’s Cupid to Mama Cass’s Dream a Little Dream and Janice Joplin’s Piece of My Heart. Other classic hits to be performed include Jim Morrison’s Touch Me, Karen Carpenter’s Close to You and a special tribute to Michael Jackson. 

For Billy DuVall, Jr., who will be performing with Orchestra Kentucky at Rock `n Roll Heaven, this concert has a special meaning. “Michael Jackson really inspired me as a young black adolescent growing up.  I thought if he can make it, there is hope for me to pursue my interest in singing”.

Rock `n Roll Heaven, November 5th & 6th at Van Meter Hall on WKU’s main campus.  The concerts begin at 8:00 pm.  Free shuttles from Mariah’s (State Street) and Adams Street parking lot begin at 6:15 pm.  $10 valet parking is available.

Rock `n Roll Heaven is sponsored by Franklin Bank & Trust, Claudia and Steve Downey.  Co – sponsored by Steve Hudson, Inc. and Sun Suites Salon and Spa with media partners WBKO, the Daily News and WKCT.

Tickets start at just $10 and are available by calling 270-846-2426 or at OrchestraKentucky.com