In a bid to support the recovery of local musicians after COVID-19 restrictions saw a ban on live performances, pubs across the city have started to line them up with gigs.
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Dubbo singer and guitarist Shane Riley is a prime example of this, following a busy month of bookings at several different popular hotels across the city, from the Amaroo Hotel, the Pastoral Hotel, South Dubbo Tavern and the Old Bank to the Commercial Hotel, where he is set to perform this weekend.
Shane said he has been enjoying the return of live music and being back on stage.
"It has been great to be in front of an audience again and to have the energy reciprocated," Shane said.
"The support for live music in venues and pubs has also been great."
Shane said the ban on dancing in pubs, which has been enforced by the NSW Government as part of its COVID-19 Safe Guidelines, has proved to be a bit of a challenge, however, that hasn't stunted the pub culture energy and good vibes.
"The energy is still there," he said.
Music lovers and those wanting an excuse for a good night out are being encouraged to come along and support Shane at the Commercial Hotel this Saturday.
"I will be playing a mixture of songs, from the 90s to now, with most genres being explored, but my jam is anything from the 90s to the 2000s RNB."
Shane also produces his own original work which he said is inspired by no other than the world around him and the things he experiences.
"My original work comes from my world, my problems, my hopes and desires, but also from a silly side of myself," he said.
"Most people know me for my 'Kevin bloody Wilson' style song, Cousin Bev."
Shane said he doesn't remember a particular, isolated moment in his life in which he decided to take up music as it was always something he enjoyed doing in one form or another.
"I remember being a child and always performing in talent quests and singing on stage with my older cousin Pete Riley," he said.
Pete Riley is another well-known Dubbo musician who will also be featuring at the Commercial Hotel the night before Shane, Friday, November 27, from 7pm to 10pm.
However, Shane is no stranger to performing on his own.
"As a solo stage performer, I have been doing shows now for about five years," Shane said.
Shane performs at an array of venues and functions as well as at weddings and says there's a different feel to each of them.
"For me, the pub scene is where I am putting on a show, whereas weddings are more of a party," he said.
Shane said the Commercial Hotel, in particular, is always a good time.
"There is always a great crowd at the Commercial, great staff and a groovy vibe."
For any entertainment needs, to make a booking or to support Shane you can visit his Facebook page Shane Riley Music.
Shane will be performing at the Commercial Hotel in Dubbo this Saturday, November 28, from 7pm to 10pm.
Those who wish to attend are being asked to book a table and can do so by calling the Commercial Hotel on 02 6882 4488 or by visiting https://bit.ly/MershLiveMusic.
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