Riders of the Purple Sage

Rich vocal harmonies and shredding instrumentalism sum up the sound of the Riders of the Purple Sage. It’s new guys with a new twist on a vintage sound. From movie cowboy music (Tumbling Tumbleweeds, Ghost Riders in the Sky, Cool Water) to catchy new originals and burning bluegrass inspired instrumentals, the Riders put on a snappy show. Campfire yes, sleepy no.

The phrase "Riders of the Purple Sage" is borrowed from the title of a Zane Grey novel published in 1912. In 1932 Jack Dalton put together a band under the name and achieved regional success on KFI radio in Los Angeles. They had two good years then disbanded in 1934. In 1942 Foy Willing put together his own Riders of the Purple Sage for the Hollywood Barn Dance Radio Show, soon achieving national success in films, radio, and live performance. He did over 20 western movies and recorded on four major labels.
In 2003 Sharon Willing urged Cody Bryant to carry on the name and lead a new version of the Riders. Cody and his band perform under the banner today.

Music festivals, corporate retreats, and concert houses thrill to the high energy and enthusiasm the Riders of the Purple Sage bring to every show. They’re fearless in taking their music to new venues and a public that’s largely forgotten Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. Every show proves the magic of the Los Angeles cowboy sound is as powerful today as it was back when they shared the screen with Roy Rogers, Dale Evans and the ever charismatic Monte Hale.

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Contact the RSO office at 505-623-5882.
Discount for Full-Time Students.
Questions? Email us at: RSO@RoswellSymphony.org