Michael Martin Murphey headlining CSC gathering

Murphey has performed a long list of hits during his career, including “Wildfire,” which reached No. 1 on the Radio and Records charts in 1975. Other big hits of his include “Carolina in the Pines,” “What’s Forever For?,” “Still Taking Chances,” “A Long Line of Love,” “I’m Going to Miss You Girl,” and “Cowboy Logic.”

Murphey has become known in musical circles as a representative of the Western horseman, horse rancher, cattle rancher and cowboy. With a love of the outdoors, he has been committed to issues regarding farmers and ranchers, open space, and the management of natural resources.

Entertainers who have performed Murphey’s songs include the Monkees, John Denver and Lyle Lovett. Artists from Lovett to Lonestar have credited Murphey with influencing their careers and sound.

Murphey’s biography lists about a dozen awards and accomplishments. Among them is the Golden Smoky Award, which was presented by the Department of Interior for his tireless work in conservation and wildlands fire awareness.

Another big name act in cowboy music and poetry circles will take the stage Friday night at 7 p.m. Jon Chandler of Colorado has been heralded for his singing and songwriting, as well as his writing. He is opening for four poets who will explore the cowboy experience as it relates to gender. They are Yvonne Hollenbeck of Clearfield, S.D., Lyn Messersmith of of Alliance, Ken Cook of Martin, S.D., and Tim Nolting of Bushnell, Neb.

Leading up to Murphey’s performance Saturday, 18 cowboy poets from near and far will recite their work in 25-minute blocks. They will begin performing at 9 a.m. in Memorial Hall. That event is free and open to the public.

Tickets for Murphey’s concert and Friday night’s performances may be reserved by calling the CSC Box Office at (308) 432-6360 4-6 p.m. each week day, or by e-mailing boxoffice@csc.edu. Seating is free of charge for CSC students and employees who make reservations in advance.