Mixing comedy and music is a feat often not performed on a local level unless you are, of course, like our very own Reverend Charles Preston Smith of the PotatoeBabies. And on occasion Grand Rapids plays host to those who have been given this gift, from Tiny Tim to (more recently) LaughFest's power pop duo Garfunkel and Oates.
On Friday and Saturday, Heywood Banks rolls into town and lands in a venue best suited for him given his lyrics and show antics -- but also proximity to the expressway in case he needs a speedy getaway.
Best described as a poet, musician, singer, comedian, performer, cult hero, songwriter, icon, and chicken farmer, Banks is here not to tickle your funny bone but to break it with his powerful stage show. His show is sure to include plenty of fun sing-alongs that will border on the gross to the downright gospel truth until you realize what you are singing about with those all around you. (No worries, you finally found the community you've been seeking.)
And if you are worried about taking your date, no worries, since the same man who sings songs like
How I Caught My Cold,
Orange Barrels, and
Big Butter Jesus is also the same son born in Tennessee, who according to Banks, "appeals to college students, stoners, businessmen, yuppies, rednecks, punks, kids or your grandmother."
You only have two chances to see Heywood Banks in concert -- or maybe I should say,
you have two opportunities to see Heywood Banks live in our city. And if you have been to the Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill before, then you know what an intimate space this is for such a fun night of laugh-out -loud until you cannot breathe night of music comedy done southern style.
Admission: $20 (General Admission)