Standing Hampton ready to rock the stage at Thunder Nites Friday

If you like ’70s and ’80s classic rock be sure to check out Standing Hampton at Friday’s Thunder Nites concert. Standing Hampton, based out of Des Moines, will be performing for their second year in a row at Thunder Nites and couldn’t be more excited.

“We performed for Thunder Nites last summer and had a blast,” said Tony Benson, founding member of Standing Hampton. “The organizers have done a great job and the event continues to grow and attract a sizable attendance. We’re thrilled to have been asked back to perform again this year.”

He along with his wife, Nancy, started the group in January of 2000. Current members Doug Dixon (keyboards) started in late 2001, Tommy Walker (lead guitar) came on board in 2010 and Anthony Cravero (bass guitar) and Joey Russell (vocals) started this year.

“We’re primarily a ’70s and ’80s classic rock cover band. Our goal is to play the great familiar classic rock songs that everyone knows and loves. We also play a selection of funky rock hits and even dabble in some contemporary county rock tunes. We want people to sing along, dance, and leave our shows feeling like they’ve had a blast,” Benson said.

The group has opened for several national acts including Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, Rick Springfield and Little River Band. Over the past 14 years, they’ve performed at town celebrations, county fairs, RAGBRAI and the Iowa State Fair as well as corporate and private events and night clubs in Iowa and the surrounding states.

Although performing indoors is a must with the Iowa climate, the band feels most at home in outdoor venues.

“Over the years our production has grown, and we very much enjoy performing outdoor shows. I suppose you could say that type of show is our specialty,” Benson said.

Throughout the years, the band has grown and changed but they continue to gain inspiration from the people they play for.

“Our inspiration comes directly from the folks who come to our shows. There’s an incredible sense of camaraderie felt when you look into a crowd of people, dancing, arms around shoulders, swaying, smiling, and singing along to those songs that really have a strong meaning for them. That’s what it’s all about. Making people smile,” Benson said.

If you want to catch another Standing Hampton show they are playing several town celebrations in August and September as well as the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 17. Find a complete schedule at www.standinghampton.com

Contact Staff Writer Jamee A. Pierson at (641) 792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com.