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Arts & Entertainment

Mel Tillis Plays Rain Shortened Music Under The Stars Concert

Country legend plays his hits at Burns Park.

A little bit of country is better than no country at all.

Longtime country singer and songwriter Mel Tillis played for just over an hour at Burns Park before a storm forced the show to shut down.

Bur the music legend was a crowd pleaser in his brief time on stage, urging the audience to sing along with him and throwing guitar picks into the crowd.

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“It’s good to be back on Long Island,” said Tillis. “It’s been a long time. Last time I was here I think I even caught some crabs down at the docks.”

He played with his band The Statesiders, who've been with him since the '70s, and together they performed some of his hits such as “Who’s Julie?” and “Don’t You Ever Get Tired of Hurting Me.”

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When lightning appeared in the distance, it became clear that the show would probably have to end early. Upon being told he would have to wrap it up a few songs ahead of schedule a clearly sad Tillis , told the audience, “Well, I’ve been having a great time with you folks tonight.”

During the concert, the audience enthusiastically clapped along and cheered every time the performer started a new song.

“I’m a country music fan for life, said Marie Vassallo of Plainview. "I saw Mel play way back when. A real long time ago. I come to these concerts a lot but this one is clearly for someone like me.”

Vinny Lofranco was also happy to see some down-home music come to Burns Park. “I’m a big country music fan but this is my first time getting to see Tillis live,” he said.

The 78-year old Tillis was born with a speech impediment. But he has never let it affect his singing career and that has been inspirational to many of his fans. One woman at the concert said, “What I enjoy is that he has an impediment but he doesn’t let that stop him.”

Those who've come to all the "Music Under the Stars" concerts were just as happy to see Tillis. Barbara Odwazny said, “I really enjoyed the series so far this year. There’s been a nice variety of performers. It’s a great event because it’s free and that’s important in this economy.”

Tillis has written songs for Kenny Rogers and Waylon Jennings in addition to having his own hits. He has also appeared in a number of films including “Every Which Way But Loose” with Clint Eastwood. When the concert ended early he promised to come back again soon.

There will be more concerts at Burns Park including Air Supply on July 30th at 8 PM.

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