By Kate Bartlett
Rock N’ Roll weekend returns to the village of Ellicottville this Friday, September 12 through Sunday, September 14. This weekend brings over 15 regional bands playing in various venues throughout the village, all free of charge. The Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce has been putting this festival on for over 20 years, and it has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
Sunday brings the annual car and truck show, featuring over 250 vehicles along the village streets from 12-5pm. Terry Buchwald has been playing Rock N’ Roll Weekend for around 18 years, one of his over 175 shows per year in the Western New York Region. This Buffalo native has been delighting audiences with his Elvis Tribute performances for over 34 years.
around 18 years, one of his over 175 shows per year in the
Western New York Region. This Buffalo native has been delighting
audiences with his Elvis Tribute performances for
over 34 years
Terry was inspired by music at a young age. His mom was a huge Elvis fan, and she introduced Terry to his music. Terry played various instruments in band in high school, and decided to dress up like Elvis on Halloween and do a show. He found that not only did he have fun, but he had a knack for it. Terry always knew he wanted to entertain, and has always had fun doing it.
In 1991, Terry officially dedicated himself as an Elvis tribute artist. He has since performed in all 50 states, various territories and has performed at 7 Super Bowls as an opening act. “These were all incredible experiences,” remarks Terry. “Each one special in its own way.” He lived in Vegas for 4 years (during the Buffalo ‘off season’) performing as ‘The King’ in the city that never sleeps.
After about 18 years, Terry decided to add more variety in his shows. “My mom loves Elvis, my dad loves country, and my brother loves Rock ‘n Roll. I decided to add a little something for everyone.” Currently, Terry devotes the first half of his show to The King, and the second act, after a costume change, he tributes country and rock and roll, and other artists who have influenced Elvis.
Summer is Terry’s busiest season, playing various venues across Western and Central New York, recently expanding to Michigan. His team works hard to keep the show interesting, adding new songs and switching things up throughout the years. Recently, Terry’s children have become more involved in his shows. “I’m teaching the kids the ropes,” explains Terry. “I enjoy having them involved; they’re talented and they enjoy it.” Both of his daughters and his son, Bryn (14), Madison (12) and Brooks (10) joined him on vocals this summer.
Sadly, Terry lost his mother earlier this year, but is happy to keep her spirit alive in his performances. “She was the reason I started performing,” explains Terry. “She introduced me to Elvis and encouraged me for over 40 years. She made the costumes I currently wear on stage, and sewed the scarves I give out to the audience. She’s deeply missed, but I’m keeping the show going in her honor.”
Ellicottville holds a special place in Terry’s heart. “Playing at Rock N’ Roll Weekend is my favorite show of the season, and it was my mom’s too. Our whole crew loves playing in Ellicottville. The smell of the kettle corn, the changing of the leaves, seeing all the cars lined up for the car show…it’s something special. We always get a few pizzas and hang out at the gazebo after the show. It’s tradition to take a group photo here every year.”
Terry’s favorite thing about performing is reaching the crowd, and spreading joy. “Music is therapeutic. It crosses generations and reaches everyone, no matter their age or situation. I love interacting with the crowd; I want to get everyone up, enjoying the moment.”
Live music will take place at various venues in the village of Ellicottville throughout the weekend. For the full schedule, check out “What’s Shakin’” on page 10 of this week’s paper.
Terry will be playing the Gazebo Stage on Main Street in Ellicottville on Sunday, September 14th at 1:30pm. As always, this concert is free and open to the public. For more information on Rock and Roll weekend visit https://www.ellicottvilleny.com/ and about Terry visit https://tcbtribute.com/