VALENTINE, Neb. - Live music is making a comeback in Valentine, Nebraska. As concert attendance continues to surge across the country, two local business owners are working to bring that same energy to their small town with a summer concert series featuring award-winning artists.

Ken Fisbeck, owner of Humdinger Boots, and TC Colvin, owner of Bunkhouse Restaurant and Saloon, are teaming up to revive the series, which will feature four concerts from June through September.

“We have some good bands coming up. It’s going to be a lot of fun,” Fisbeck said.

Among the performers are Will Carter, who won Country Single of the Year at the Texas Country Music Awards, and Teague Brothers Band, which has climbed to number two on multiple Texas music charts. Hayden Haddock, who recently landed his first number-one song, and The 70’s Band are also set to take the stage.

“This is something we wanted to try to bring back,” Colvin said. “We’re going to give it a shot.”

Three of the concerts will take place in the parking lot outside the Bunkhouse, while the fourth will be just outside Humdinger Boots. Concert dates are June 28, July 19, Aug. 2 and Sept. 13.

Fisbeck and Colvin hope the series will not only provide entertainment but also boost Valentine’s economy.

“We’re bringing people into town,” Fisbeck said. “Anytime people can come to town and spend money—whether it be at the restaurants, the retail stores, the gas stations—that all brings in money.”

The concerts could also serve as an added attraction for tourists visiting the nearby Niobrara River.

“They’re on the river all day,” Fisbeck said. “They can come to town, listen to good music, and maybe go out to eat.”

But beyond the economic benefits, Fisbeck and Colvin say the biggest goal is creating a sense of community.

“You get together with friends. You get together with family, and it gives people memories,” Fisbeck said.

Memories made as award-winning artists take the stage, bringing new life to live music in Valentine.