By Laura Kay Mack
Special to
The News-Leader
KIRBY – In a world where friendships come and go, one bond has stood the test of time, resonating through decades of melodies and memories. The story of the Bear Creek Boys began in the heart of Kirby, Ark., where three young men, Dewight and Dewayne Mack, alongside Dickey Chambers, set out on a musical journey that would shape their lives. Later joined by Tee Powers from Hope, Ark., their passion for country music became the
cornerstone of an enduring friendship. The Bear Creek Boys, a band of country music enthusiasts, are celebrating their remarkable milestone of 50 years of camaraderie and harmonious tunes.
From humble beginnings playing for locals in their hometown, the Bear Creek Boys soon found themselves sharing stages with some of the biggest names in the industry. Their talent and passion caught the attention of some of the industry’s biggest names, leading to unforgettable collaborations with luminaries such as John Anderson, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, Lee Greenwood, T.C. Graham, Collin Ray, Hank Thompson, Trick Pony, Dierks Bentley, Farron Young, The Oak Ridge Boys, and Marty Robbins, among others.
”It’s been an incredible journey,” remarked Dickey Chambers, echoing the sentiment shared by his band. “To think that we started out just playing for fun, and now here we are, celebrating 50 years of making music together.”
Their journey took them to Bill Muse’s Country Music Barn in Dierks, Ark., where they entertained audiences with their music for two and a half years. It was during this time that a young man from Foreman, Ark., named Tracy Lawrence, became a regular at their shows.
Little did they know that Tracy would later journey to Nashville, carving out his illustrious career in country music.
“We’ve always felt a special connection with Tracy,” shared Dewayne Mack. “It’s amazing to see how far he’s come, and we’re proud to have played a small part in his journey.”
The band still remains friends with Tracy, and attends many of his concerts.
“Country music just brings people together, and for us, that’s exactly true,” reminisced Dewight Mack, reflecting on the journey that brought them together half a century ago and the joy it has brought them as friends.
As years have passed, the Bear Creek Boys have remained true to their roots, using their music as a force for good in their community. They have often dedicated their time and talent to numerous charitable causes, including raising funds for the Arkansas Children’s Hospital for over three decades, leaving an indelible impact on those in need.
Through it all, the Bear Creek Boys have found immense joy in their shared passion for country music and the lifelong friendships they’ve forged along the way.
“We’ve been truly blessed as musicians and friends,” shared Powers.
The enduring legacy of the Bear Creek Boys serves as a testament to the enduring power of music and the strength of lifelong friendship. As they celebrate 50 years of harmony and memories, the Bear Creek Boys remind us that some bonds are truly unbreakable.
Bear Creek Boys Band Members: Dewayne Mack, Dewight Mack, Dickey Chambers, Tee Powers, Greg and Laurie Westfall, and Ronnie Whisenhunt invite you to join them on Saturday, at the Paw-Paw Patch Pavilion, Kirby Landing Saturday, May 25, beginning at 6 p.m. to celebrate the Bear Creek Boys.
