Donkey Derby Days 2025 Entertainers
Flying W Wranglers
The world-renowned Flying W Wranglers are the second-oldest Western performance band in the world. Their stunning three-part harmonies, superb instrumentation, and clean bunkhouse humor have delighted over seven million people since 1953. There have been over 60 individuals that have been a part of the Flying W Wranglers, with several of them performing for the Ranch for more than 30 years. The Flying W Wranglers have performed in many parts of the world, including USO tours in Vietnam during the war; at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee; in London, England; at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and Carnegie Hall in New York City. The Flying W Wranglers have been featured in local and national television commercials, performed with world-class symphonies, sung at major sporting events, and won a wide variety of musical awards.
Wild Blue
Wild Blue is the United States Air Force Academy's commercial band of active-duty musicians whose mission is to support the Air Force, and its Academy, both stateside and abroad. Wild Blue has been featured on ABC's "Good Morning America," Fox News Channel's "Fox & Friends," the Grand Ole Opry and many other national television and radio broadcasts. Using the power of music, these full-time active-duty airmen are committed to serving the cadets at the Air Force Academy, deploying overseas to support the welfare of our troops, and innovatively telling the Air Force story in communities throughout the world.
Jason Lee Band
Jason is a Cripple Creek native, and excited to be back performing at Donkey Derby Days! After graduating high school in Cripple Creek, he embarked on a global journey with the U.S. Navy. Returning to his Colorado roots, Jason channeled his experiences and creative energy into his original rock music, igniting stages across the region with his high-voltage band. While their electrifying performances have garnered a dedicated following, the band's ambitions stretch far beyond state lines. With a rich history of recording and performing nationally, they are currently putting the finishing touches on a highly anticipated new record at the legendary RCA studios in Nashville, Tennessee, a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft and their aspirations for wider recognition across the country.
Mimic
Mimic are a classic rock cover band based out of Colorado Springs, Colorado. The band performs at local music venues, festivals, and private events. Playing the best classic rock hits from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s that keep the crowd dancing and singing along, the band formed in April of 2022 and is comprised of seasoned musicians each with decades of experience in numerous bands. So, we’re “classics playing classics,” really.
Meghan Clarisse and Her Cavemen
Meghan Clarisse and Her Cavemen are a high-energy group blending rock, blues, and country influences into a sound that’s as lively and unpredictable as Donkey Derby Days itself. With infectious hooks, raw authenticity, and a passion for live performance, we bring a musical celebration that perfectly captures the spirit of community and fun. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-timer at the Donkey Derby Days, get ready for a ride filled with spirited tunes and unforgettable moments.
Tenderfoot
Bluegrass Band
Tenderfoot Bluegrass is one of Colorado Springs finest bluegrass bands and has been together since 2004 and we have not stopped. We love to play live in front of all audiences. We have a mix of original songs and cover tunes, ranging from old time bluegrass to rock and roll. Tenderfoot has played shows all over the front range of Colorado and strives to always progress in what we do. I will list a few venues we have played at. The Broadmoor World Arena, Midwinter Bluegrass fest, Western Jubilee Recording Company, Stargazers theater, The Rialto theater, Boot barn hall, Ford Amphitheater, The Pikes Peak International Hill climb, High Mountain hay fever bluegrass festival, The Manitou Springs wine festival, Pickin on the Divide, Fox 21 News, Meadowgrass Music Festival, Holly days bluegrass festival and many more. Tenderfoot has also had the amazing opportunity to open and play with some fantastic national acts. The Kody Norris Show, Ryan Chrys and The Rough Cuts, Waterloo Revival, Curtis Grimes, David Adam Burns, Edison, Trout Steak Revival, and Meadow Mountain and many more.
Austin Ross Band
Austin Ross Band isn't just a cover band; we're your ticket to a high-energy musical journey spanning over five decades! From the rock 'n' roll that got the world dancing in the late 50s to the pop anthems and dance hits of the 2000s, our setlist is crafted to keep every foot tapping and every voice singing along. Based right here in Southern Colorado, we've brought our dynamic performances to countless events and clubs, building a reputation for delivering a fantastic time, every time. Whether you're a fan of classic rock riffs, catchy pop melodies, country twang, or the infectious rhythms of rockabilly, we've got you covered. And because we believe music should bring everyone together, our performances are always family-friendly, ensuring there's something special for every generation to enjoy. Get ready to experience the soundtrack of your life with the Austin Ross Band!
Justus
Still Above Ground
"Still Above Ground" is a real classic rock group successfully playing in the Colorado Springs area since before Covid. We play regularly at local venues, private parties and weddings. The band has a massive song list of over 400 songs and has complete sets in every style including early rock (1955-1962), the British Invasion, Southern rock and popular songs that everyone knows but no one plays anymore.
Radio-X
Colorado Springs-based Radio-X offers a vibrant blend of Classic Rock spanning the 60s through the 2000s, with a touch of Country Rock sprinkled in. Known for their engaging performances, this dynamic band connects with audiences through their energetic stage presence and well-crafted sound. Radio-X has become a notable presence in the local music scene, providing enjoyable live experiences for a wide range of music lovers.
JUSTUS is a dynamic rockin country band that has been together over 20 years playing some of the favorite venues in all of Colorado. The cover of songs includes the greatest country dance songs and a mix of your favorite classic rock. This four piece band has played for thousands of people yet also some small venues to accommodate shows from weddings to large community events. With Steve on vocals and guitar, Mark on drums, Tim on Bass and John on keyboard, this group is sure to keep you dancing and singing to the best bar and wedding songs of all time.
Naked Dawn
Naked Dawn is a Latin duo with a genre-bending Pan Americana sound that spans styles from rock, blues, and folk, to traditional Mexican song forms. With influences ranging from the verdant hills of Evergreen, Colorado, to the sun-soaked campo de Oaxaca, Mexico, Britton Barrett on percussion teams up with H. Howells on vocals and guitar, to bring an eclectic mix of songs in Spanish and English. You’ll find messages of healing, inclusion, equanimity, romance, vitality, justice, and radical love in every breath of their wide-ranging songs.
Maddox Ross
Hailing from central Oklahoma, 21 year old Maddox Ross is a Singer/Songwriter & Musician. With influences along the lines of Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, George Strait & several Grunge Bands. Maddox's sound is traditional country with a twist. Performing with a live band since the age of 5, Maddox has had the opportunity to open for and share the stage with artists such as Toby Keith, The Great Divide, Billy Dean, John Rich, Wade Hayes, Bryan White, Neal McCoy, John Daly and the legendary Wanda Jackson to name a few. It was only a matter of time until he began creating originals of his own. At the age of 8 he began writing his first song. Maddox has cowritten most of his originals including his newest releases “Indiana Harmony” which is dedicated to his 2 nieces and “Horses and Heartaches”. Maddox was honored to have written his most recent releases with hit song writer Danny Wells who wrote George Strait's hit “Check Yes or No” and hits for many other artists including Rascal Flatts. Key performances Billy Bobs, CMA Fest, The Bluebird Cafe, the PBR, the WNBA. He also enjoys acting in his extra time. His philanthropic endeavors include performing for The OPRY Heritage Foundation, Guitars for Vets, Granville Community Music School, Folds of Honor among others. With a growing social media following, Maddox Ross is quickly gaining a following and his ultimate dream is to step into the circle at the Grand Ole Opry one day.
McDeviants
Hailing from Colorado Springs, we're a high-energy, family-friendly Celtic Rock quartet in the spirit of Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys, and Gaelic Storm. Our instrumentation consists of acoustic guitar, fiddle, bass, and drums, engaging audiences at every show. For twelve years, we've performed at countless outdoor festivals and private events, and you can catch us monthly at Jack Quinn's Irish Pub.
Hoodoo Honey
Hoodoo Honey, a dynamic Colorado Springs band, blends Blues, Americana, R&B, Country, and Rock, captivating audiences with their energetic performances. Featuring multiple vocalists, rich harmonies, and soulful sax/flute, they've graced local stages like Back East Bar and Grill and Oscar Blues, alongside festivals such as The Fountain Blues Festival. They've also supported touring acts like Hash Cabbage and were part of the 719 Magazine Ball. With experienced members, Hoodoo Honey has performed for veterans' organizations and is proudly sponsored by The Pikes Peak Blues Community.
Annette & Doug
Annette and Doug Conlon are talented singer-songwriters who create unforgettable live music experiences. Their diverse melodies transition from upbeat and joyful to deep and moving, consistently fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere that enhances their heartfelt lyrics. In their previous band, Eden Automatic, they opened for national acts such as The Pretenders, The B-52s, Missing Persons, and Duran Duran, among others. They have had several songs published with DSM Producers in New York and placed for sync in film and television. Annette leads the Black Rose Songwriting Circle, while Doug manages the Open Mic, organized through the Black Rose Acoustic Society.