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This past Saturday we hauled the piano, guitar, and sax down to Central Blvd in Kewanee, IL, for a Hog Days Pre-Parade Celebration at a private home right on the route. It was one of those late-summer afternoons where the sun is warm but not punishing, and you can hear the buzz of the parade crowd starting to build in the distance.

Hog Days from the Front Yard

The house sat just off the street, so we were basically playing from someone’s yard straight out to the parade crowd. Once the clouds finally moved out, we had a clear blue sky, kids running around, lawn chairs lined up, and people drifting in and out to listen between parade prep.

We kicked things off with some familiar tunes to pull people in. Starting with “Mrs. Robinson” and “I Feel Fine” felt just right for a sunny afternoon in Kewanee. With Paul Weddle on sax, the trio sound came together quickly—he has a way of sliding into a song like he’s been in the band for years.

What We Played While the Parade Got Closer

We mixed in a bunch of songs that fit the weather and the mood—some lighter, some a little more driving as the street got busier:

• Setlist highlights:
• Mrs. Robinson
• I Feel Fine
• Summer Breeze
• My Life
• Baker Street
• Spooky
• Piano Man
• American Girl

“Baker Street” with Paul on sax was an obvious crowd-pleaser—any time that riff shows up, heads turn. “Piano Man” had a few people quietly singing along from their lawn chairs, and “American Girl” gave us a nice little push of energy as the parade time got closer.

Guest Vocals, Cabernet, and a Sting Tune

One of the best surprises of the day was when local musician Marshall Jones jumped in with us. He came up to sing “It’s Probably Me” by Sting, and it instantly felt like we’d rehearsed it, even though we absolutely hadn’t. That’s the fun part of these neighborhood-style shows—someone you know from around town steps up and suddenly you’ve got a new version of the band for a song.

As the sun climbed and the shade started to disappear, our host, David Guzzardo, kept us in good spirits with a couple of bottles of Cabernet. Not exactly traditional “hydration,” but it definitely helped keep the mood loose and the between-song banter honest.

Hog Days, Home Turf, and Familiar Faces

Hog Days is a big deal in Kewanee, and even though this was technically a private party, it felt very much like being in the middle of the whole thing. The parade route was just a few steps away, and you could feel the build-up as floats and groups started lining up down the street.

For Tom, who lives just a block away, playing this show is basically like hosting a backyard jam for the whole town—only with more people walking by and more pork-related decorations.

Having family around made it even better. Greg’s daughter came by with her boyfriend, Jake, and Greg’s wife showed up too, along with their high-energy dog, Leo, who did laps around the yard like he’d been hired as our unofficial hype man. It’s always easier to relax into a set when you can look out and see people you know mixed in with the crowd.

As the Parade Turned the Corner

Eventually the parade made its way to our stretch of Central Blvd, and we paused the music so everyone could watch. The sound of drums, engines, and cheering rolled past, and just like that, our little front-yard stage became part of the background of Hog Days instead of the main event.

We wrapped up with that nice, tired-but-happy feeling you get after playing outside all afternoon. If you’d like this kind of live acoustic duo setup—piano, guitar, harmonies, and the occasional guest sax—for your own gathering, you can book Bell & Field for your next event.

Looking for a delightful way to spend your Saturday afternoon? On August 2, join us at Market Alley Wines in Monmouth, IL, for a special evening featuring the enchanting sounds of Bell & Field alongside a unique wine tasting experience! The event begins at 5:00 PM and concludes at 7:00 PM, offering an atmosphere filled with great music and fine indulgence.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, August 2, 5:00–7:00 PM
• Where: Market Alley Wines – 59 Public Square, Monmouth, IL 61462
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the talented duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: A fusion of melodious tunes, exceptional wines, and a cozy ambiance that promises a delightful and intimate gathering.
• Website: Market Alley Wines

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their smooth harmonies and timeless repertoire from the ’60s to the ’90s. Their acoustic set is crafted to foster a warm, inviting atmosphere—ideal for enjoying the music as well as the exceptional wines available.

The Venue: Market Alley Wines & Monmouth’s Warm Welcome

Situated in the heart of Monmouth’s charming Public Square, Market Alley Wines is known for its inviting space and curated selection of wines. Here, you can savor a relaxed vibe complemented by a community that exudes warmth and hospitality. Monmouth’s rich history and thriving local culture make this venue a perfect backdrop for an intimate evening of music and wine.

Join Us for a Memorable Experience

Gather your friends and join us for a captivating evening where live music meets curated wines. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Bell & Field or eager to explore new wine flavors, this event promises to offer something special for everyone. Which song or wine are you most looking forward to experiencing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Raise a glass to an unforgettable night of music, wine, and camaraderie at Market Alley Wines!

What a night to remember! On July 11, 2025, the skies above Rams Riverhouse seemed determined to test our resolve with torrential rains, fierce winds, and even tornado warnings. As we drove into town under ominous clouds, our excitement about performing with legendary saxophonist Paul Weddle kept spirits high, even as we became thoroughly drenched hauling our gear inside.

The Challenges and the Triumph

Load-in was truly an adventure. Wind gusts and driving rain made it difficult just to get our equipment through the door. As we shook off water and started setting up, the question lingered: would anyone brave such monsoon-like conditions to join us?

After completing what seemed like a successful soundcheck, we confidently started our first song—only to be interrupted 15 seconds in by loud crackles, pops, and sudden silence as the mixer abruptly shut down. We quickly switched to a backup mixer, only to encounter the same distressing sounds again. With tension rising, Tom noticed an erratic red light flickering on one of the mixer channels. Thankfully, we discovered a faulty keyboard cable was the culprit. Once replaced, everything finally fell into place. Third time truly was the charm!

Musical Highlights

From the moment we overcame the technical hurdles, the show took off spectacularly. Opening with energetic classics like “Be-Bop-A-Lula” and “Hello Mary Lou,” we immediately connected with an enthusiastic audience determined to enjoy the night despite the storm.

Setlist Standouts

• “New York State of Mind” showcased Paul’s incredible musical instincts and powerful sax solos, elevating the soulful vibe of the evening.
• “The Way You Look Tonight”, beautifully sung by Paul himself, captured the room with its timeless charm.
• “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty was an undeniable highlight. Paul’s rendition of that iconic saxophone riff thrilled everyone present, and it’s already on our must-repeat list.
• “Spooky” was a crowd favorite, made even more special because Paul has toured with the Classics IV—the very band known for this hit. He took full advantage of the venue, weaving through the crowd and mesmerizing everyone with his engaging performance.

A Night with Paul Weddle

Playing alongside Paul Weddle was extraordinary. Paul’s extensive experience touring with legendary artists like the Doobie Brothers, B.B. King, and Elton John was evident in every note. His effortless sax playing added layers of sophistication to our music, gracefully complementing vocal lines, creating dynamic fills, and delivering thrilling solos. Paul’s generous musicality truly brought our sound to a whole new level.

The camaraderie and mutual enjoyment we experienced were unmistakable. After the final notes faded, we lingered for nearly an hour in conversation, sharing stories and expressing our genuine excitement to collaborate again in the future.

Gratitude and Looking Forward

We’re deeply grateful to Steve Baxter, owner of Rams Riverhouse, for his generous hospitality and unwavering support. It warmed our hearts to see so many familiar faces, including our good friend Paul Ganahl—who hosts fantastic open mics at Rams Riverhouse and our favorite Port Byron venue, Tuggers—as well as Tom’s parents, wife Malissa, and son James, who all braved the stormy weather to support us.

Most importantly, a massive thank you goes out to the resilient and enthusiastic audience. Your energy and applause made this evening incredibly special, turning what could have been a challenging night into one of the most memorable performances we’ve ever had.

If you were inspired by this event, book us for your next event, and let’s create lasting memories together!

Every time we perform at The V’ue in Clinton, IA, we’re reminded of what makes live music so special. There’s something truly magical about this venue—from the cozy, inviting stage setup to the soothing scent of incense drifting through the room. This evening was no exception, with an intimate audience of about 20 enthusiastic friends and music lovers, delicious charcuterie boards, and a perfect acoustic vibe.

The Highlights from Our Set

Audience requests made this night unforgettable! Here are a few standouts:

• “Summer in the City” by Lovin’ Spoonful – An upbeat crowd-pleaser!
• “Great Balls of Fire” by Jerry Lee Lewis – Always fun, always fiery!
• “When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman” by Dr. Hook – A delightful surprise! We laughed when we realized we didn’t quite remember the bridge but improvised seamlessly back into the chorus.
• “Norwegian Wood” by The Beatles – Emulating that iconic sitar melody on the keys never gets old.

A Special Duet with Brooke Byam

A highlight of the night was undoubtedly when Brooke Byam, owner of The V’ue, joined us on stage. We had a request for something by Fleetwood Mac, and Brooke suggested “Rhiannon“—what an inspired choice! Her vocals soared beautifully and soulfully, and we loved adding some additional harmonies.  We think it created some good chills in the audience.  The reaction was very enthusiastic. Thanks for sharing your incredible talent, Brooke!

Selected Favorites from Our Setlist

• “I Feel Fine” – The Beatles (Brooke captured an awesome video of this!)
• “Ventura Highway” – America
• “Small Town” – John Mellencamp
• “Riders on the Storm” – The Doors
• “Can’t Buy Me Love” – The Beatles
• “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim” – Jim Croce

Though encores aren’t typically part of our routine, we didn’t want to turn down this fantastic crowd who wanted more. We wrapped up the evening with a lively singalong to “Brown Eyed Girl“—the perfect finale for a wonderful night!

The Unique Atmosphere & Our After-Show Tradition

The V’ue’s speakeasy-style charm and welcoming vibe make it one of our favorite venues. Brooke always ensures we’re right at home. Before the show, keeping tradition alive, we headed down the street to Holly’s Dogs (a charming eatery housed in a repurposed old bank) and enjoyed a couple of tasty Pork Carnitas Dogs—a perfect addition to the night!

Thanks to everyone who joined us at The V’ue and made this evening so memorable. We’re already excited for our next performance!

Want to bring Bell & Field’s acoustic magic to your event?
Book Us Today!

What a delightful morning we had at the “Spring in Bloom” event at the Galva Arts Council! The sun was shining bright, doors wide open, and the warmth of a beautiful Mother’s Day weekend flowed in freely. We were welcomed warmly by the volunteers who took such great care of us—making for a truly memorable and relaxed performance.

A Musical Morning to Remember

Our set was shaped by the intimate, laid-back atmosphere and the acoustically perfect room. The Galva Arts Council has one of those rare spaces where voices and instruments blend effortlessly, creating a uniquely rich sound. We tailored our performance accordingly, leaning into some of our favorite ballads:

• ‘Something’ by The Beatles
• ‘Wildfire’ by Michael Murphy
• ‘Slip Sliding Away’ by Paul Simon

We also ventured into new territory by request, playing Bryan Adams’ “Cuts Like a Knife.” Though a bit ragged around the edges, it came together beautifully for the relaxed crowd. One standout moment was our closing performance of “Blue” by The Jayhawks—a song that continues to deepen and resonate each time we play it.

Highlights & Special Moments

• Seeing friendly faces like Nancy Anderson and Mike Martin, who graciously snapped some photos for us (always great to connect with another PHP developer!).
• Enjoying thoughtful conversations with Linda, the president of the Galva Arts Council board, reflecting on the progress and vibrant community around this special venue.
• The lively backdrop of jewelry-making behind the building and a tasty lunch served during our set, adding to the festive yet cozy feel.

Post-Show Celebration

After the show, we kept our tradition alive and headed over to CCT for a quick lunch and, yes, even a glass of beer (no worries—we still enjoyed our usual Cabernet during the show!). It was great chatting with Jason about our upcoming gig in their exciting new Voodoo Room. As we dined, we couldn’t resist popping Roger Miller’s “King of the Road” onto the jukebox for Chad, turning lunch into a spontaneous sing-along!

Looking Ahead

A big thank you to everyone who joined us, making this morning concert feel like a warm gathering of friends. We’re looking forward to returning to Galva soon and exploring more opportunities to share our music with such wonderful audiences.

Interested in bringing our acoustic melodies and warm atmosphere to your next event? Book us for your next event—we’d love to perform for you!

Ready for another unforgettable night out? Join us on March 22 as Bell & Field light up the stage at the iconic Cerno’s Bar & Grill in Kewanee! From 8:30–11:30 PM, get set for an evening filled with smooth acoustic sounds, great food, and the warm, historic vibe that only Cerno’s can deliver.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, March 22, 8:30–11:30 PM
• Where: Cerno’s Bar & Grill – 213 W. 3rd St, Kewanee, IL
• Who: Live performance by the acclaimed acoustic duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: A relaxed, lively night of classic hits, chilled brews, and mouth-watering eats in a venue steeped in local history.
• Website: Cerno’s

About Bell & Field:

Known for their smooth harmonies and a timeless selection of hits spanning the ’60s to the ’90s, Bell & Field deliver an intimate musical experience that’s perfect for unwinding with friends. Their blend of mellow rock, folk, and soulful classics will have you tapping your feet and singing along all night.

The Venue: Cerno’s Bar & Grill

Steeped in history since its inception in 1898 by Pabst Blue Ribbon, Cerno’s Bar & Grill is more than just a spot to grab a drink—it’s a local landmark that embodies the spirit of Kewanee. With 30 beers on tap, an extensive menu of fantastic food, and a back bar that’s as memorable as the first sip of your favorite brew, Cerno’s offers an authentic slice of Midwestern charm. Whether you’re here for the live tunes or to savor one of their famous pizzas, you’re guaranteed an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and uniquely Kewanee.

Join Us for a Night to Remember

Grab your friends and make your way to Cerno’s Saturday night (March 22, 2025). Enjoy a laid-back evening where great music, tasty treats, and local hospitality come together to create an experience you won’t forget. Are you ready to kick back and enjoy some timeless tunes? Let us know in the comments below which classic hit you’re most excited to hear!

Cheers to a night of live music, community, and unforgettable memories at Cerno’s!

Looking for a fun, laid-back way to spend your Saturday night? Mark your calendar for March 8 because Bell & Field is bringing their live acoustic show to Jay’s Place in Kewanee! The music kicks off at 7:00 PM and keeps the good vibes going until 10:00 PM. If you’re in the mood for great tunes, cold drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere, this is the place to be.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, March 8, 7:00–10:00 PM
• Where: Jay’s Place – 315 E Third St, Kewanee, IL
• Who: Live acoustic music by Bell & Field (classic hits from the ’60s–’90s)
• What to Expect: A casual evening of favorite songs, friendly folks, cold drinks & “hot slots” fun

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field is a talented two-man acoustic duo (guitar, piano, and vocals) known for their smooth harmonies and nostalgic song selection. They cover iconic classics from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s (with a few ’90s favorites in the mix), breathing new life into songs by artists like The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, Frank Sinatra, and Van Morrison. Greg (on keys) and Tom (on guitar) have a knack for creating a warm, easygoing vibe with their music – think mellow rock, folk, and soulful classics that make you smile and sing along. Their sound is perfect for a relaxed night out, so you can tap your feet, enjoy the melodies, and still chat with your friends between songs.

The Venue: Jay’s Place Atmosphere

Jay’s Place is one of Kewanee’s favorite local bars, known for “cold drinks and hot slots.” What does that mean for you? Ice-cold beers, your favorite cocktails, and a slot machines in the corner if you’re feeling lucky! 😄 The atmosphere at Jay’s is friendly and down-to-earth – the kind of place where the bartender might already know your name (or will by the end of the night). It’s a great spot to catch live music because it’s cozy and casual. You can kick back with your drink, enjoy the live tunes up close, and soak in the hometown bar charm. There’s nothing like listening to an acoustic duo in an intimate setting where you can truly appreciate the music (and maybe even chat with the band during a break!).

Come Hang Out with Us!

It’s shaping up to be a chill, enjoyable Saturday night at Jay’s Place. Whether you’re a longtime Bell & Field fan or just curious to check out something new, grab a couple of friends and come on out. Enjoy the music, try a signature drink, or spin the slots – it’s your night to have fun!

Are you planning to join us? Let us know in the comments below! Feel free to share what classic song you hope Bell & Field will play, or just say hello. We’d love to hear from you and see you at the show on March 8th. Cheers to a great night of live music!