As the year draws to a close, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #60 in Estevan, Saskatchewan, is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year's Celebration Party on December 31, 2023. This year's event promises an evening filled with live music, festivities, and the unmistakable charm of Kelly J. Gill & The Hired Guns.

For Kelly J. Gill, music has been a lifelong passion that began at the tender age of six when he stumbled upon his mother's old 12-button accordion on the family farm. From that moment, the young musician's journey unfolded, leading him to master the accordion, piano, guitar, and vocals. Gill's musical odyssey saw him founding the Prairie Travellers, a band that became a fixture across southern Saskatchewan, recording two albums at Touchwood Studios in Regina.

After 18 years with the Prairie Travellers, Gill's creative spirit yearned for new horizons. Balancing a home cattle ranch and a thriving battery-operating business in the oilfield, he set his sights on Nashville. In the heart of the country music mecca, Gill performed at various venues and recorded his first solo album, "One More Mile," an album that not only earned accolades in Los Angeles but also garnered global airplay.

Returning home, Kelly J. Gill continues to captivate audiences with his music, accompanied by the talented musicians of The Hired Guns: Neil Atkinson on bass, Wayne Honig on piano, Grant Honig on steel guitar and lead guitars, and Kelly on rhythm and lead guitars. Gill's dedication to his craft is evident in his words, "I perform with the best musicians you could ask for who are just as passionate about music as I am. They are also the craziest cut-ups, constantly having a blast doing it! Who could ask for more? I hope I never quench the thirst!"

The New Year's Celebration Party at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #60 promises a night of entertainment and camaraderie. Tickets, priced at $30.00, are available at the Legion, Henders Drugs, or through e-transfer to legion60@sasktel.net. The festivities kick off at 7 PM with entry, followed by cocktails at 8 PM. At 9 PM, the stage will come alive with the soulful tunes of Kelly J. Gill & The Hired Guns. As the clock strikes midnight, guests can indulge in a delectable midnight lunch.

In addition to the musical spectacle, the evening will feature a 50/50 draw, door prizes, and the highly anticipated Truck Raffle Draw. It's a night where the community can come together to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new in the true spirit of celebration.

For those eager to learn more about the man behind the melodies, an exclusive interview with Kelly J. Gill can be heard from his interview on Country 106.1 at the bottom of this article. The interview delves into his musical journey, experiences in Nashville, and the passion that fuels his performances.

As the countdown to 2024 begins, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #60 invites the community to join in the festivities, raising a glass to the past and embracing the promise of a new year with the timeless tunes of Kelly J. Gill & The Hired Guns.

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Full Interview with Kelly J. Gill on Country 106.1

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