܀Wayne Southards܀

One of the most refreshing things you will hear from The Expedition Show is the stellar guitar work and vocals of WAYNE SOUTHARDS.  A native of Salem, Missouri, Wayne moved to Nashville in 1990 with his wife and two sons. He would soon become a highly sought after guitarist and work for country artists such as John Conlee, The McCarters and Sweethearts Of The Rodeo and in addition to working on stage, Wayne also worked behind the scenes as road manager for The McCarters.  Wayne is a seasoned professional in bluegrass, too.  He performed with the Tennessee Gentlemen as their lead vocalist and guitarist and he is also an accomplished bass player having worked for Weary Hearts, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time, and Kathy Chiavola. 

Wayne is a Midwest SPBGMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America) “Male Vocalist of the Year” having won the award in 1987.  He is also an accomplished songwriter having his songs covered by  Rhonda Vincent and The Expedition Show.  Wayne was recently named the International Acoustic Music Associations 2009 "Male Vocalist of the Year".  Wayne was recently honored by his hometown of Salem, MO for his contributions to the city's musical heritage along with The Dillards who are also native of Salem.  And if all this wasn't enough, did we mention he does a killer impersonation of Willie Nelson?   It is a crowd favorite!!