Media Writing T/TH 9:30 - Marisa: Jason Allen Performs at Gruene Hall

The band performing on Monday evening - Katesia Fleetwood

Jason Allen Performs at Gruene Hall

By Katesia Fleetwood

Jason Allen and his band played a blue-grass performance at Gruene Hall in Gruene, Texas, March 19, from 7-11 p.m. Besides local fans, band followers from Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota and France attended the show.

According to the manager of Gruene Hall, Shane Roch, there is a “huge local crowd” at Texas’s oldest dance hall. Roch mentioned how he enjoys the music performances and regular patrons. B.B. King and other older Blues artists gave past performances that Roch enjoyed. The dance hall has had performances from George Strait, Lyle Lovett, Joe Ely, and Hal Ketchum.

Even on a windy, tornado watching Monday night, Gruene Hall does not close its doors.

The dance hall Monday evening - Katesia Fleetwood

Jason Allen, New Braunfels local, performed many songs throughout the evening. One song “He’s Still Dancing with Her” is based on a true story about his parents.

“When I was little, I was dragged to honky-tonks with my parents,” Allen said. “My parents had a special dance that included a little ‘dip’ which was really cool and everyone would always applaud afterwards.”

Jimmy Trevino, radio retiree and Texas State alum, now works with Jason Allen and the band.

“Playing on stage, you can’t beat it because it’s a win-win business,” Trevino said. “Seeing the joy on faces, it’s not for the money.”

Allen is practicing time management with his wife of 12 years, two young kids and shows all over, including France. According to Allen, he and his wife are a team. “My wife is an artist and she does all my album art.”

His son, Hank, adores his dad’s guitar skills.

“My son’s mouth hangs open in awe when I pull out my guitar,” Allen said.

According to Trevino, France has a huge Texas music audience. Allen appreciates all ‘the people’ that come out to the concerts. At a music festival concert in Vire, France, the fans had made up line dances to his music.

“The line dancing videos are even posted on YouTube.com,” Allen said.

Jason Allen is anticipating hi fifth record titled, “Loving You.” He believes it ‘will explode’ this summer.