AARON TIPPIN FANS ATTEND FESTIVAL CONCERT

(06/05/2006)

Tippin fans ignore thunderheads rolling across county park

Tippin assembles a bike for local "Toys for Tots"
presented to Festival's John Oshoway for Christmas give-away

One thing for sure, there were Aaron Tippin fans at Saturday's Wood festival concert at the county park, even though the crowd was dampened by thunderheads moving across the county.

Tippin gave his high-energy, fan-pleasing performance, including the patriotic tunes that made him a star.

He talked about his constant tour of military and foreign bases, entertaining troops. Tippin (pictured left) said at the very start of his career he got a call from Bob Hope's daughter, asking him to go on a Hope tour.

"I was taken back, just to be asked, because I was a newcomer. And what an honor it was and has been," he said.

Aaron cut the title track, "Where The Stars And Stripes And The Eagle Fly," immediately following the 911 tragedy, donating proceeds from the single to the American Red Cross.

Aaron's career, with the help of the Hope tour, was launched under a banner of patriotism with his debut single, "You've Got to Stand for Something."

Tippen spent part of the day with local folks
enjoying a bean and cornbread dinner at Glenville
(R)Samantha Murphy and Aaron Tippin on stage

It reached the Top Ten in 1991 and became an anthem for a nation embroiled in the conflict of Desert Storm.

Tippin wears a badge of patriotism, and included a fireworks display during Saturday night's performance.

One thing that hasn't changed in Tippin's life is the consistent support of his fans. "The fans are my mainstay," he said.

Fans brought their lawn chairs and blankets for event

"Aaron was a real crowd pleaser," commented a fan