Rock concert series brings monthly shows to the Heartland

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - People can head to downtown Cape Girardeau to jam out to local and regional artists performing in the “CGMO Rock Show.”

One Saturday a month for the next six months, music lovers can get tickets to see rock bands play at the Rude Dog Pub.

Organizers said a typical show will have three acts, some local, some regional or touring.

Tickets are $7 at the door for ages 21 and up.

Red Claw Promotions is the group behind the series.

“[It’s] a promotional group started in 2017, that works to further elevate local, original rock ‘n’ roll music here in Cape Girardeau,” said co-founder Josh Tomlin.

The group formed when Tomlin and fellow musicians and rock fans decided there was a gap in promotion of local musical artists.

He said for the past six and a half years, they’ve had success in their efforts to bring more rock ‘n’ roll groups into the spotlight.

“We organize shows, we book bands, we collaborate with local venues, work with local businesses for sponsorship to help supplement some of our cost.”

Going forward, Tomlin said they hope to work with newer artists to keep the music rolling.

They also want to secure opportunities for younger musicians to showcase their talents, in a business where their age often bars them from participating.

“It’s very difficult, there’s not a lot of places to play because they’re 21 and up. There’s a trickiness to booking your show, and how you talk to a club owner, and how you work with other bands.”

Tomlin said they hope to use their experience to help younger artists navigate the music scene, offering them more chances to play, and more chances for their friends and family to watch and support them at all-ages events.

“We’re really looking forward to some of the things that we have planned for this next year and beyond.”

The next “CGMO Rock Show” is at 9 p.m. Saturday, February 10.

Artists Noir Daze, Matt F Basler, and SPACERS will perform at Rude Dog Pub in downtown Cape.