The Sons of Britches — Local services in Branson

We were in Branson for several days over New Years and our first show the evening of our arrival was one we had never heard of, the Sons of Britches. It turned out to be the best decision of the trip. It it performed in a small theater inside the IMAX complex (which also includes an excellent restaurant). There are three performers in the group, all seasoned performers with 45-60 years of professional experience each. The lead guitar and main vocalist has over 60 years experience, much of it playing with some of the longest-running Branson shows. The fiddle player with 45 years experience is a former two time Louisiana state fiddle champion and just amazing. They start the show with four numbers they select some of which parody popular songs. The rest of the show (until a short gospel section near the end) are songs they solicit from the audience and then perform in the sequence they are requested, in our case, 16 different numbers covering everything from Ferlin Husky to the Monkees. I’d suggest going with a few numbers in mind and not being shy about calling them out. I would also suggest fiddle tunes like the Devil Went Down to Georgia and Orange Blossom Special. You won’t be disappointed. At the beginning of the show they pitch some products, which they sell after the show to “end poverty in the Ozarks one household at a time”. The Sweet and Saucy Britches BBQ sauce turned out to be excellent. Easily my favorite of the seven shows we saw...

Sons of Britches, consisting of three incredibly talented musicians wielding a guitar, bass, and fiddle, brought down the house with their fantastic blend of music, humor, and charm. From the moment they took the stage, their infectious energy and genuine passion for their craft were palpable.

The musical prowess of these three gentlemen was nothing short of impressive. Their harmonious blend of instruments created a rich and full sound that was both catchy and fun. The fiddle added a unique and electrifying element to their performance, making each song feel fresh and invigorating. There was foot shakers, and a kick drum that also added to the music, essentially playing more than one instrument at a time.

What truly set Sons of Britches apart was their engaging stage presence and witty banter with improving songs yelled out by the audience. They had the audience in stitches with their humorous anecdotes and playful interactions, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that made everyone feel like they were part of the show. It was evident that these musicians not only love what they do but also genuinely enjoy connecting with their audience. I wasn't as familiar with some of the music choices by the audience as I'm in my lower 40s, however I can appreciate the skill and musical talent it takes to perform on the spot based on random song choices....

Branson’s one of a kind music and comedy show programmed by the audience! This is a request show! They’re not teenagers! These three are seasoned professional musicians! Decades of experience have filled their collective repertoire to overflowing! There’s no auto tune, electronic doubling of voices or prerecorded instrumentals or vocals. No flashing lights or fog machines! It’s not loud so you can listen in comfort without damaging your eyes, lungs or ears! Seriously! If you want to understand why people have flocked to Branson for over 60 years, this type of fun entertainment is a great example! While other shows try to copy the major artists “on tour” shows, with special effects and electronic enhancements to create illusions of accomplishing astonishing deeds, strobe lights in your eyes, smoke in your lungs, making you cover your ears, these guys are determined to rely on talent and...