Heartland Express has been through many changes over the decades. Including the entire line-up of the band. When Cliff Davis joined the band a few years ago, he played bass, but was asked by the leader of the band if he wanted to take it over. Davis accepted and the band took a new direction.
Slowly Davis started filling band slots with what he needed for a latin country band. Now he says he has a very talented group of guys playing with him.
They play all over the Valley and it's something they'll never give up.
"We love it," said Davis. "We have to because we don't get paid much."
Davis shares lead singing duties with Joel Garza, depending on whether the band is playing country or something a little more latin.
Since: mid-'80s
Hometown: Mission/McAllen
Where do you live now: Mission/McAllen
Upcoming show: Friday, Nov. 14, 6:30 p.m. at Elks Lodge in McAllen
Who do they sound like? George Straight + Hank Williams Heartland Express
Influences: Alabama, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Marshall Tucker, George Strait, Keith Whitley
Who's in the band and what's their role:
Cliff Davis, 44, lead singer who plays rhythm guitar on an Ovation
Joel Garza, 53, vocalist who also plays a Fender bass
Rick Sanchez, 54, prefers Roland or Korg when he plays his keyboard
Tony Pace is on drums
Rob Fry, 58, plays lead guitar on a Gibson
Check out this song by Heartland Express. "Dressed in White" - 1,047 MySpace plays - To get an idea of just how much Davis was influenced by Alabama, listen to this track. The deep tone of Davis' voice makes obvious why the band covers George Jones.
COUNTRY CRED: 4 out of 5 cowboy hats
What brand of jeans do you wear? The entire band seems fairly loyal to the Wranglers brand.
Do you wear cowboy boots? All of them are big fans of Ropers boots.
A cowboy hat? At least 3, including the lead singer, are rarely seen without a cowboy hat on stage.
How thick is their accent? Davis speaks with a hint of a southern drawl.
What was the best concert you've seen? Davis was inspired when he saw an Alabama concert when he was 17 years old. Not only did they put on a raucous show, there were girls up on tables, stripping down to nothing.
Favorite beer? Most of them don't drink anymore.
How does a Valley crowd differ from a regular country crowd? "Audiences are more appreciative elsewhere," said Davis. Though he said Valley crowds can sometimes get rowdy.
As a country band/musician, how do you relate to Tejano music? "I've lived here all my life, so I've always listened to it and like it," said Davis. "It's helped me grow as a musician."
What is your dream gig? Playing a big venue is the band's dream gig.
-Interview by Zack Quaintance
