Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and multi-Grammy winning guitarist, James Burton, will join Joe Stampley as a guest of Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs Saturday, Nov. 18 (tonight) at 7:30 p.m. on the newly renovated downtown Rue Beauport Riverbank in Natchitoches as the Natchitoches Christmas Festival presents “Turn on the Holidays,” the official opening of the Christmas season in Natchitoches as well as a celebration of the opening of the extensive riverbank renovations.

Burton’s appearance was prompted by an impromptu visit to Natchitoches a couple of weeks ago where he checked out the new stage and renovations.

“The new stage and amphitheater is fantastic!” said Burton. “And I’ve played on a few stages in my time.” (Burton was Elvis Presley’s, Ricky Nelson’s, and John Denver’s lead guitarist.)

“I asked my good friend, Rodney Harrington, (lead singer of the Moondogs) when the Moondogs would be playing on the stage,” said Burton. “He told me that they would be playing on the 18th along with Joe Stampley. I immediately said, I’ll be there!”

Burton went on to say that he loves Natchitoches and has performed on the old stage many times. He said he always looks forward to playing with the Moondogs and is excited to perform with his old friend, Joe Stampley.

“Joe and I go back a long way and the Moondogs are my favorite band to play with. I promise you that everyone who comes Saturday night are going to see a great show with a lot of surprises.”

It’s a historic night in more ways than one. Not only is it the first time Natchitoches will celebrate Christmas after the renovation of its riverbank, but it will be the first time Burton and Stampley have ever performed together.

“I’ve always dreamed of performing with James,” said Stampley. “Now I’ll finally get to do it.”

Entertainment Schedule:
4:30 – 7pm Mike McKenzie Band
7 pm – FIREWORKS over Cane River
7:15 pm – Johnny Earthquake & the Moondogs FEATURING Joe Stampley and James Burton