Presented with support from Eagle County.
From our legendary après ski scene to living rooms across America on MTV, Colorado has had a significant impact on popular music. From 1972 to 1985, the Caribou Ranch in Nederland, CO operated as a music recording studio in a converted barn, a dude ranch, and a special place for the music community to gather. Drawn in part by Colorado’s “Right to Work” status, allowing musicians to record, play gigs, and collaborate without Union Cards, Caribou Ranch recordings won 60 Grammys, produced more than 25 #1 hits, and hosted more than 150 musicians including Michael Jackson, U2, Chicago, Elton John, John Lennon, America, Badfinger, Billy Joel, Dan Fogelberg, John Denver, Kris Kristofferson, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, Tom Petty and The Beach Boys. The first song written and recorded at Caribou Ranch was “Rocky Mountain Way,” co-written by Joe Walsh-led band Barnstorm bass guitarist Kenny Passarelli. Passarelli, in conversation with long-time Vail Valley (and global) musician Don Watson, tells the story of Caribou Ranch and Colorado’s unique music culture, and how it impacted music far beyond Colorado.
Featuring unique venues like Red Rocks, huge entertainment companies like AEG and legendary festivals like Telluride Bluegrass plus the spirit of après ski sing-alongs, the Colorado music scene is built on a collaborative culture of local and world class musicians, business people and fans. From the legends of classic rock to newer bands and the music of today, artists and industry executives will weigh in on the story of Colorado music. Along the way, we will hear songs performed live by Passarelli and the Vail Valley Band (including “Rocky Mountain Way”). Passarelli will share how Colorado has shaped his career which has spanned playing with Joe Walsh, Elton John, Dan Fogelberg, Stephen Stills, and Hall & Oates.
Tickets include snacks, a chili bar and soft drinks as well as the afterparty concert! Bar offerings will be available for purchase.
Event Schedule:
- Doors open at 4:30 p.m.
- 4:30-5:30 p.m. – Pre-program and refreshments
- 5:30-7:30 p.m. – Program
- 7:45-9 p.m. – Afterparty Concert with the Vail Valley Band
