Ned LeDoux bringing ‘Bareback Jack’ Tour to Blackwell Oct. 2

A celebration of rodeo history and country music will make its way to Blackwell this fall when Ned LeDoux brings his "Bareback Jack" Tour to the Blackwell Fairgrounds.

The City of Blackwell and US 107.9 Real American Country will present the concert Friday, Oct. 2, at the Blackwell Fairgrounds/Event Center.

The tour pays tribute to the life and legacy of Ned LeDoux's father, legendary rodeo champion and country music singer Chris LeDoux, while commemorating the 50th anniversary of his 1976 bareback riding world championship.

The Blackwell concert falls on what would have been Chris LeDoux's 78th birthday.

Before becoming one of country music's most recognizable cowboy performers, Chris LeDoux built his reputation in the rodeo arena. He captured the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association bareback riding world championship in 1976, an accomplishment that would become an important part of his music and identity.

LeDoux began recording songs about the rodeo life while still competing, initially selling his music out of the back of his pickup truck at rodeos. His career eventually grew far beyond the rodeo circuit, and he became known for songs including "This Cowboy's Hat," "Whatcha Gonna Do with a Cowboy" and "Cadillac Ranch."

He died in 2005 at the age of 56.

Ned LeDoux has since continued his family's musical tradition, first performing as a drummer in his father's band, Western Underground, and later launching his own career as a singer and songwriter.

The "Bareback Jack" Tour takes its name from Chris LeDoux's early music and celebrates the connection between his rodeo career and the songs that helped establish his legacy.

Organizers are billing the Blackwell stop as one of the largest country music events to come to northern Oklahoma in recent years.

Local businesses and organizations also have an opportunity to become sponsors of the concert, with three sponsorship levels available.

Prime Sponsorships are available for $1,000 and include a logo on posters, flyers and banners; banner space at the concert; radio mentions; stage recognition; social media promotion; and a reserved table for six.

Choice Sponsorships are $500 and include placement on posters and banners, banner space, radio mentions, stage recognition and social media promotion.

Select Sponsorships are available for $250 and include radio mentions, stage recognition and social media promotion.

Checks for sponsorships should be made payable to GiddyUp Radio.

Businesses or organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities may contact Tina Andra at (316) 945-1079 or tinaandra@1079kwls.com.

Additional information about the Oct. 2 concert, including further event details, is expected to be announced as the date approaches.