WYLIE'S BIOGRAPHY
Wylie Gustafson is an American original. The native Montanan singer/songwriter has recorded 24 albums backed by over 3 decades of performing around the world. He remains distinct in country music as one of the few authentic voices of the genre. Wylie’s muse is the empty sprawl of his native Montana home where he crafts the words and music that reflect his life on the 4th generation family ranch.
For over the last 33 years, he and his band, The Wild West, have performed their refreshing blend of cowboy, western, and traditional country. They are hugely popular on the festival and theatre circuit. Stateside, they have performed at such prestigious venues as the National Folk Festival, MerleFest, the Bumbershoot Festival, The Stagecoach Festival, A Prairie Home Companion, The Conan O’Brien Show and the Grand Ole Opry (with over 50 guest appearances).
BAND MEMBERS
TIM LASHLEY
Tim, hailing from the picturesque Black Hills of Western South Dakota, has had a rich musical journey that spans the United States and Europe. With a heritage deeply rooted in country music, Tim's father, Joe Lashley, an inductee of the "Legends of Dakota Country Hall of Fame", played a pivotal role in shaping his son's musical path. Now calling Helena, Montana, his home, Tim shares his life with his beloved wife Rika and their son Max. Tim is a passionate and energetic performer who channels his love for traditional country music through his drumming, creating an unforgettable experience for his audience every time he takes the stage.
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CLAYTON PARSONS
A Great Falls, Montana native who is a third-generation guitar player, Clayton is a direct heir to the classic and tasteful “golden era” country guitar sounds of the 50’s and 60’s. His grandparents Ralph Parsons (guitar) and Betty Parsons (upright piano) played together in the thriving Great Falls music scene of the 50s-80s. Clayton’s father, Carl Parsons, considered by his peers to be one of the best classic honky-tonk pickers in Montana, began playing professionally in the early 70s and continues to play classic country music today. At the age of 19, Clayton set up an amp on stage; he’s been playing professionally ever since.
MAX LASHLEY
This Montana raised, country musician Max Lashley has been playing the bass with his father, 2nd generation country drummer Tim Lashley since he picked up a bass at 12 years old. Now after a musically rich childhood, this young bassist comprises one half of the capital city father-son country western rhythm section duo that’s been travelling up and down the tri-state area, infusing their performance with the rich authenticity of a slapping upright bass.
"Wylie and the Wild West are a show band, famous for multiple encores - the band you want to see close the show!"
Heber City Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Buckaroo Fair