On Monday 8 September 2025, Gene Watson praised the talents of his highly acclaimed Farewell Party Band.
‘My Farewell Party Band has been the backbone of my long career, so I want to give a shout-out to two of my great long-time musicians.
Bass player, Staley Rogers, has been with me for 30 years, and drummer, Todd Hines, has played alongside me for 20 years.
They provide more than just rhythm – they bring stability, trust, and an unspoken musical bond that only decades together can create.
Their dedication to real country music and their stage presence makes for a terrific performance that I can always count on.
It also gives me the freedom to focus on delivering the songs to you.
Staley and Todd’s long tenure in the band highlights the kind of enduring partnership that makes live music timeless and unforgettable.
And, we won’t even talk about their sense of humour.
You never know what those two are gonna say and make you laugh ‘til it hurts.
They are like family, and I’m forever grateful to have them with me on the road.
In case you were wondering – Staley says his favourite song to perform is ‘This Dream’s On Me‘ (written by Fred Koller) (No.8, 1982), while Todd says his favourite is ‘Change Her Mind‘, which was written by Danny ‘Bear’ Mayo (Monday 2 October 1950 – Saturday 2 October 1999), Paul Nelson and Larry Boone, (No.44, March 1997)’
Source
Gene Watson on Facebook
