Multi-Grammy-winning artist Merle Haggard will perform at NATSO’s convention this month.
The performance will kick off the truckstop and travel plaza industry’s 2004 convention, which will be held at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C., Jan. 21-24.
“We are delighted to have such a talented performer in our company,” said NATSO President and CEO William Fay. “In the past few years Merle Haggard has demonstrated to us all that the true secret of success lies in hard work, talent and heart. His recent comeback is analogous to the turning of the tides that the truckstop and travel plaza industry is currently enjoying.”
Haggard, 66, has produced more than 70 albums and nearly 40 top country hits. His most recent work, Haggard Like Never Before, was released in September. Haggard penned, sang and produced the album himself.
“Whatever kind of music you’re doing, if you’re doing something with some honesty and truth to it, people will recognize that,” Haggard said. “Of course, if you’re doing that now, then you’re defying the mainstream. But I think that people are tired of phony stuff and hungry to hear raw, emotional music again. I believe that people are looking for honesty, and that’s what I’m trying to put across.”
The NATSO Show is the only national tradeshow and exposition dedicated solely to the truckstop and travel plaza industry. For more information on the show or to register, visit www.natso show.org or call NATSO Public Affairs at (888) 275-6287.
