The Muleskinners is the next group on tap for this summer’s Concerts in the Park series, presented by the Champaign County Arts Council. Pack up family, lawn chairs and/or blankets and head to Melvin Miller Park for the 7 p.m. July 25 free concert. If weather is bad, the concert will mosey over to Urbana University.
In June of 1985, The Muleskinner Band performed its first job at Marketplace in Urbana. Since then the band has traveled to six states, made a number of recordings and still enjoys presenting country, gospel and bluegrass music to audiences.
Bill Purk, self-appointed comic and leader of the group, began playing when “Ike” was in office. He says he’s thankful for the six-and-a-half decades he’s been able to entertain.
Floyd Alexander plays upright bass for the group. Newcomer Kenny Hanuska plays guitar with seven-year veteran Jim Peterson on banjo.
In addition to the regular bluegrass ensemble, Saturday’s show will also feature “The Muleskinner Trio,” made up of Purk on guitar, Jeff Wilson on bass and Greg Wisecup of Troy on steel guitar, playing nostalgic country favorites.
