‘Vaquero’ to open for sold out Lodge concert

BY Aprile McKinnon

The Deana Carter Concert tomorrow has been sold out for weeks, Doug Shultz, the Canyon Lake POA concert promoter, said. Excitement is high for both the headliner’s pending performance but for the opening act of Vaquero.

David Maldonado, recognized as “Vaquero” within the realm of country music, is on the brink of a global release of his “Modern Country” tracks. From a young age, Vaquero found himself irresistibly drawn to the charm of country music, fostering an unexplainable affinity for its heartfelt narratives and poignant tunes.

David’s expedition into the realm of music was ignited by the strings of the guitar and the twang of the banjo. The two instruments are seamlessly intertwined to form the cornerstone of his distinctive musical style.

Before the pandemic cast its veil of stillness across the globe, Vaquero was a prominent figure gracing the red carpets of the Country Music Awards and collaborating alongside his most revered artists within the illustrious embrace of the Grand Ole Opry.

Vaquero David Maldonado will take the Lodge stage to open tomorrow for Deana Carter. Photo provided by David Maldonado

Beyond his worldwide musical endeavors, Vaquero contributed his compositional and performance talents to notable projects like “Showdown and the Hoedown” for Orange County Housewives and the western film “Diablo,” featuring Scott Eastwood, the progeny of Clint Eastwood.

The epitome of his performances unfolds within the legendary bars lining the iconic Broadway of Nashville, solidifying his presence within the tapestry of country music. This journey endures as he perpetuates his songwriting alongside myriad fellow country artists.

David‘s accolades extend to securing the coveted #1 spot on the Latin music charts as recognized by Billboard, a feat he now aspires to replicate within the realm of Country Music by the year 2024. This opening act will be a hit and rev up the audience prior to country artist Deana Carter taking center stage.

In the realm of country music, a significant milestone has been reached by Deana, the artist who infused a truly unique form of affection into her inaugural single, “Strawberry Wine.” Marking a span of 25 years, this song continues to resonate.

Presently, Deana commemorates the 5X Platinum status achieved by her debut album from 1996, titled “Did I Shave My Legs for This?” This celebration takes the form of an anniversary reissue, featuring meticulously remastered renditions of her songs. Moreover, the reissue introduces two fresh tracks, both masterminded by Deana herself. These compositions shine a spotlight on luminaries from diverse eras within the country music genre.

However, before delving into the anticipation of this recent release, a journey back in time to the 1990s becomes imperative. During this era, women held dominion atop the music charts, and among these luminaries emerged Deana Carter as a newcomer.

She managed to seamlessly assert her presence, ascending to the coveted No. 1 position with the evocative ballad, “Strawberry Wine.” Serving as her maiden single from her debut album, this achievement earned her the esteemed titles of Single of the Year and Song of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards of 1997. This feat was further highlighted by nominations for prestigious accolades, including a Grammy and an Academy of Country Music Award.

Concert goers fortunate enough to have secured a ticket to this popular concert, should brace themselves for a night of pure pleasure through the music of a pair of talented artists.

The concert is a part of the Concerts at the Lodge series put on by the Canyon Lake POA. The Fabulous Thunderbirds will take stage at the Lodge for the year’s final concert on Nov. 4. The iconic Texas Roadhouse blues/southern rock band is led by singer/harpist Kim Wilson. The band is known for its dynamic sold out live performances around the world. General admission tickets for this show are $59 and VIP tickets are $79.