Almost 40 years ago while many of my college friends were listening to The Rolling Stones and other rock n’ roll bands, I had a burning love for the music of John Denver. When he came to Fort Wayne, Indiana for several shows, there was no way I was missing that concert. That night of music with the folksy troubadour, made a lasting impression on my life.
John Denver loved the mountains, the wilderness and the natural environment. He communicated that love perfectly in his songs and the way he lived his life. He was an amazing spokesman for the natural environment and all it’s wonder.
John has been gone for 18 years, but his music lives on and continues to be rediscovered and appreciated by new generations of music lovers. Last season and this past November at Act II Stages , Paul Aleman and Renee Armand presented their highly acclaimed show, Rocky Mountain High, The Music of John Denver.
This John Denver tribute show is returning to The Red Room for 6 shows in March. These performances are scheduled for Thursday, March 3rd at 7:30 pm; Friday, March 4th at 9:30 pm; Saturday, March 5th at 7:30 pm; Thursday, March 10th at 7:30 pm; Friday, March 11th at 9:30 pm; and Saturday, March 12th at 7:30 pm.
In this show, you’ll love both the music and the background stories from Renee Armand, a John Denver band member who performed with John for six years. Renee also appeared on the DVD, Thank God I’m A Country Boy and on Rocky Mountain High.
This show is performed in a ‘classic style’ similar to that of Carole King and James Taylor. Rene and Paul delve deeply into the music in a thoughtful and honest way. All the music is ‘live’ and skillfully communicated by these incredibly accomplished musicians. Rene’s lifetime as a truthful communicator of heartfelt lyrics and music along with Paul’s incredible musicianship on guitar and vocals make their show a ‘one-of-a-kind’ experience in Vallarta’s entertainment scene.
As a musician, Renee was discovered by Tony Bennett and mentored by Carmen Mcrae. As a singer/songwriter, she wrote and recorded with many well-known artists. Her songs were recorded by Michael Jackson, Mama Cass, Linda Rondstadt and John Denver. Renee has performed all over the world and continues to do so. As a Los Angeles studio singer for 10 years, she recorded movie themes, records and even a few commercials.
Renee is also known for singing her Academy Award winning song “The Morning After” from the movie, The Poseidon Adventure. She wrote “One Day In Your Life” that was recorded by Michael Jackson and also wrote “I Dream of Highways” with Hoyt Axton. She performed with The Coyote Sisters as well.
In their show, Rocky Mountain High, Paul and Renee will present the music of John Denver along with stories from the road and insights into the music. They are not imitators of John Denver, but rather interpretators of his music. Paul Aleman is, in his own right, a gifted partner in this show. After years of making records with the most important musicians of her time, Renee admits that it’s important to work with a top professional musician like Paul Aleman, who contributes a high level of musicianship and success to the show.
Paul and Renee together, bring a night of ‘pure music magic’. Although Renee’s years with John Denver were only about 6 out of her 50 year career, those years are an important part of her diverse musical foundation that spanned from a Chinatown bar to Madison Square Garden.
Renee and Paul are excited to return to Puerto Vallarta with their show, because they realize PV is a place that actually loves talent and has audiences that support it in the sweetest way. Renee always enjoys her time here in PV. She will be available for private vocal and performance coaching and will also offer a Master Class in songwriting.
On Thursday, March 3rd at 7:30 pm, Paul and Renee open, Rocky Mountain High, at The Red Room. With honesty and pureness, they recreate the magic of John Denver’s music as their voices blend together in beautiful harmony. With Paul on guitar, they deliver a performance that will sweep you away with the beauty and simplicity of the music. To have John Denver’s music communicated so authentically, by world-class musicians is thrilling. With the remarkable voices of Paul and Renee, rediscover the inspiring music of John Denver.
The Red Room Cabaret at ACT II Stages is located on the corner of Insurgentes and Basilio Badillo on the South side of Puerto Vallarta. Tickets are now on sale at the STAGES box office or online at www.actiientertainment.com
Almost 40 years ago while many of my college friends were listening to The Rolling Stones and other rock n' roll bands, I had a . . .
