Marshall Tucker Band to headline Wild Cat Country Fest

Did you see, ohh, did you see who’s headlining the Wild Cat Country Fest?

Organizers announced Feb. 18 live on KCOB 95.9 FM that The Marshall Tucker Band — known for hits like “Can’t You See” and “Heard It In A Love Song” — will be headlining the inaugural country music festival in Newton, along with special guests Whitey Morgan & The 78′s and The Georgia Thunderbolts.

Also performing the June 18 concert is Sara Darling & Nicole Witt of the Six One Five Collective, Diamond Dixie, Michael Moncada & Whiskey High, Tyler Richton & The High Bank Boys, Katie & The Honky-Tonks and Outlaw Country Express.

Wild Cat Country Fest is an upcoming all-day country music festival making its official debut June 18 in Newton. Organizers recently announced online that the local, regional and national bands are set to perform in the 15-acre, Iowa countryside backdrop at Fore Seasons, 6232 County Highway S74 S.

Dan Nieland, chairperson of Wild Cat Country Fest Foundation Board, said earlier this month the nonprofit organization’s goal is to promote the city, the county and the quality of life “that we all get to enjoy” in the community. With about 13 acres of Iowa landscape, he said there’s plenty of space to enjoy.

“The Wild Cat Country Music Fest will bring together a unique blend of local, regional and national acts,” Nieland said. ‘We really feel that coming out of the pandemic people will be looking to gather outside to enjoy a full-day, authentic country music experience.”

Fronted by leading member Doug Gray, The Marshall Tucker Band was founded in 1972 as a six-piece from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Since then the band has garnered more than 20 studio albums, multi-platinum sales and a whole slew of dedicated fans.

Gates for the main event will open at noon June 18. In addition to the all-day country music experience that weekend, three to four venues across Newton will be hosting live music shows following the same eclectic country theme on June 17. Wild Cat Country Fest will be providing shuttling across all venues.

“We want to ensure that there is a benefit to the community beyond the one-day event,” Nieland said. “With all we have to show off in Newton and Jasper County, it’s hard to limit it to just one day.”

For tickets and more information, visit www.wildcatcountryfest.com.

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 6560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com