Flashback Friday - Johnnie's Past Memorial Day Weekends

It's Memorial Day Weekend, when we remember those who have served our country, and those that have given their lives for us. We usually have a lot of things planned for the family, fun things to celebrate our freedoms.

Back in El Paso, they're having the annual KLAQ Balloonfest, with some big bands playing, including Volbeat and Anthrax this weekend. This is only the second Memorial Day Weekend I haven't worked this event in decades!

Here are a couple flashback photos from the last few years of Balloonfests for me, when I was playing in a couple bands that had the honor of being chosen to play at this huge event.

I was lucky enough to play the event on a few occasions, both on guitar, and on bass, and every time was amazing and fun! Everyone who came out was there to celebrate the weekend, and had a great time, and every band had a blast playing on the same stage as some amazing national talent!

The last year I played there, 2013, was with both bands I was in. First, on Sunday, May 26th, 2013, I got to play an acoustic The Third Edge set as one of the openers for Sully Erna of Godsmack! He was touring for his solo album, Avalon, and all the acts on the bill were acoustic that day.

Then, on Monday, May 27th, I got up on bass and performed with The Nobodys as one of the openers for Young Guns, and Halestorm! Young Guns was touring in support of Bones, and Halestorm was, well, kicking more ass than anyone could believe. They still are!

Here are a few photos from all the years I played this cool event, and a random pic from when I got to ride around on a motorized beer cooler! I still want one of those.

Enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend, and remember those who have served our country and allowed us these freedoms to celebrate!