Our History

Cheryll Kent and Hickory Wind has been performing in Northern California for the past several years.

A series of unexpected and special occurrences during 2009 brought about another marker on Cheryll’s musical adventure: the formation of “Hickory Wind.”  The publishing of the book “Imagine That” by Manuel Luz, began a resurgence of the desire to perform her “art” in a band forum.  Another musician friend, Kent Petersen, who was the producer of Cheryll’s 2003 CD, was in a tribute band and at one of his concerts Fred leaned over and whispered in Cher’s ear “you could so do a tribute to Emmylou”.  At that moment the dream was born.

Hickory Wind – theatre benefit performance

A friend and fellow musician from the days of performing with “Sunny Monday” Dave Wren, became inducted into the Country Swing Music Hall of Fame.  His story in the local paper reconnected their relationship and at a local gig another longtime friend and fellow musician Conrad Nelson, re-established connection with Cheryll.  Conrad fronted several bands and played bass for the “Dusty Rustlers” contemporarily with “Sunny Monday” back in the 70’s and 80’s.  Jon Weibold and Fred Kent who played bass and drums for “Sunny Monday” joined in on the idea and “voila!”  After a let’s get together and see what it sounds like session, “Hickory Wind” was born.

After performing in this configuration for a year and producing a CD “Behind My Dreams,” the band morphed into a trio as job changes and events overtook the 5 piece. In 2014 Randell Stedronski joined the band on lead guitar. With his refreshing “Yes” style and influence on our sound and Hickory Wind’s Americana style and influence on his playing, the Hickory Wind sound turned another corner.  Dan Partian, who has recorded with us over the years, brought his talents on the banjo and guitar as well as his vocals into the live band performances.

We have produced and recorded several albums and singles since we’ve begun this journey. (See the Music page)

In 2019, more job and life changes has resulted in Randell moving out of state and new energies coming alongside the Hickory Wind sound.  

The latest adventure for the Hickory Wind folks began in April, 2017 with the vision of honoring a few of the women who made break through changes in the world of country music: Patsy Cline, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris with her Hot Band. 

The “Cheryll Kent and Midnight Silver with Bob Woods” show is now available for booking as well as Hickory Wind. 
The show takes you on a musical journey from Nashville to LA, from Boulder to Birmingham to honor the music of these three women and their impact on the world of music.