George Strait’s iconic sound is inseparable from the talented musicians who’ve backed him for decades. The Ace in the Hole Band has been an integral part of Strait’s success since 1975, long before he became a country music superstar.
The band’s name originated from Strait’s 1989 hit single “Ace in the Hole,” which became his 18th No. 1 song. This chart-topping track solidified the group’s identity and highlighted their role as Strait’s musical foundation.
Interestingly, Strait didn’t form the band himself. He started as the lead vocalist for Ace in the Hole while they were all students at Southwest Texas State University. The group’s original lineup included Ron Cabal, Mike Daily, Terry Hale, and Tommy Foote. As Strait’s solo career took off, the band seamlessly transitioned into his backing ensemble, continuing to shape the sound that would define modern country music.
Origins and Early History
George Strait’s Ace in the Hole Band has deep roots in Texas, tracing back to the mid-1970s. The group’s formation and early development were shaped by their college experiences and local music scene influences.
Formation at Texas State University
The band’s story began at Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in San Marcos. In August 1975, a simple bulletin board notice seeking a singer caught George Strait’s attention. He joined forces with Ron Cabal, Mike Daily, Terry Hale, and Ted Stubblefield.
This student ensemble quickly bonded over their shared passion for country music. They honed their skills playing gigs around campus and local venues.
Influence of Cheatham Street Warehouse
Cheatham Street Warehouse, a historic music venue in San Marcos, played a crucial role in the band’s development. Owner Kent Finlay provided a stage for the young musicians to perform regularly.
This honky-tonk became their musical home, allowing them to refine their sound and build a local following. The warehouse’s supportive atmosphere fostered creativity and helped shape their authentic country style.
Evolution from Stoney Ridge to Ace in the Hole
Initially, the group performed under the name Stoney Ridge. They gained popularity in the San Marcos area, playing a mix of covers and original songs.
As their reputation grew, they decided to rebrand. The name “Ace in the Hole” was chosen, reflecting their confidence and skill as a unit. This change marked a turning point, setting the stage for their future success with George Strait as the frontman.
The band’s evolution from college students to professional musicians happened organically. Their dedication and talent caught the attention of industry professionals, leading to recording opportunities and eventually, stardom.
Band Members and Instrumentation
The Ace in the Hole Band features talented musicians on a variety of instruments that create George Strait’s signature sound. Each member brings unique skills and contributions to the group’s performances and recordings.
Mike Daily and the Steel Guitar
Mike Daily’s steel guitar playing is integral to the Ace in the Hole Band’s country sound. As one of the original members, Daily has been with the group since its formation in 1975. His smooth, melodic steel guitar lines add a distinctive twang to Strait’s music.
Daily’s family has deep roots in country music. His grandfather, Pappy Daily, was a renowned music producer and label owner. This musical heritage likely influenced Mike’s skillful approach to the steel guitar.
His consistent presence in the band has helped maintain their authentic country sound over the decades.
Terry Hale’s Bass Contribution
Terry Hale provides the foundational bass lines that anchor the Ace in the Hole Band’s rhythm section. As another original member, Hale has been with the group since its inception in the mid-1970s.
His steady, driving bass playing complements Strait’s vocals and supports the other instruments. Hale’s consistency and reliability have been crucial to the band’s tight sound over the years.
In live performances, Hale’s bass work helps maintain the energy and momentum of Strait’s shows.
Rhythms from Drummer Tommy Foote
Tommy Foote joined the Ace in the Hole Band early on, replacing the original drummer Ted Stubblefield. Foote’s drumming has been a key component of the group’s rhythmic backbone for decades.
His precise timekeeping and dynamic playing support the band’s traditional country style while allowing for subtle variations that keep the music fresh. Foote’s drumming adapts seamlessly to both uptempo honky-tonk numbers and slower ballads.
Beyond his musical contributions, Foote also served as Strait’s road manager for many years, showcasing his versatility within the organization.
The Fiddle of Gene Elders
Gene Elders brings the classic country fiddle sound to the Ace in the Hole Band. His expressive playing adds emotional depth and traditional flair to Strait’s music.
Elders’ fiddle work ranges from mournful slow bows on ballads to lively, foot-stomping solos on more upbeat tracks. His ability to weave melodic lines around Strait’s vocals enhances the storytelling aspect of many songs.
The fiddle’s prominence in the band’s arrangements helps maintain their connection to country music’s roots while still sounding contemporary.
Lead Guitarists Ron Cabal and Rick McRae
Ron Cabal was the original lead guitarist for the Ace in the Hole Band. His guitar work helped establish the group’s sound in its early years. Cabal’s playing contributed to the band’s transition from local Texas venues to national prominence.
Rick McRae later took over lead guitar duties, bringing his own style to the role. McRae’s tasteful solos and rhythm playing have been featured on many of Strait’s recordings and live performances.
Both guitarists have played crucial roles in shaping the band’s sound over the years.
Benny McArthur’s Versatility
Benny McArthur brings versatility to the Ace in the Hole Band with his skills on multiple instruments. He primarily plays rhythm guitar, adding depth to the group’s sound.
McArthur’s ability to switch between acoustic and electric guitars allows for varied textures in Strait’s music. He also contributes backing vocals, enhancing the band’s harmonies.
His adaptability makes him a valuable asset to the group, able to fill different roles as needed in both studio and live settings.
Mike Kennedy on Drums
Mike Kennedy joined the Ace in the Hole Band as drummer in the 1980s, taking over from Tommy Foote. Kennedy’s solid timekeeping and versatile playing style have been central to the band’s rhythm section for decades.
His drumming adapts to the diverse range of tempos and styles in Strait’s catalog, from honky-tonk shuffles to smooth ballads. Kennedy’s ability to play with both power and subtlety contributes to the band’s dynamic live performances.
As a long-standing member, Kennedy’s drumming has become an essential part of the Ace in the Hole Band’s signature sound.
George Strait’s Solo Career and the Band’s Role
George Strait’s transition to a solo career in the 1980s marked a pivotal moment for both the artist and the Ace in the Hole Band. Their relationship evolved as Strait gained prominence, with the band adapting to support his rising stardom.
The Transition to Backing Band
In the early 1980s, George Strait signed with MCA Records, launching his solo career. The Ace in the Hole Band shifted from being co-performers to Strait’s dedicated backing band. This change allowed Strait to take center stage while maintaining the musical chemistry developed over years of performing together.
The band’s familiarity with Strait’s style proved invaluable during live performances and studio recordings. Their consistent presence helped maintain the authentic country sound that became Strait’s trademark.
Collaborations and Studio Work
As Strait’s career soared, the Ace in the Hole Band played a crucial role in his studio recordings. Their instrumental skills and understanding of Strait’s musical vision contributed to the creation of numerous hit albums.
The band members’ expertise in country music enhanced the production process. They collaborated closely with Strait and producers to craft the signature sound that resonated with audiences across the nation.
In live performances, the Ace in the Hole Band’s tight musicianship and reliability allowed Strait to deliver consistent, high-quality shows. Their longstanding partnership became a hallmark of Strait’s concerts, attracting fans who appreciated the seamless integration of artist and band.
Significant Milestones and Achievements
The Ace in the Hole Band’s journey with George Strait is marked by remarkable success and longevity in country music. Their partnership yielded numerous chart-topping hits and solidified their place in the genre’s history.
Landmark Record Deal with MCA Records
In 1981, George Strait and the Ace in the Hole Band signed a pivotal record deal with MCA Records. This contract propelled them into the national spotlight and set the stage for their future success. The deal allowed them to reach a wider audience and provided the resources needed to produce high-quality studio albums.
MCA Records recognized the band’s potential and invested in their unique sound. This partnership proved fruitful, as it led to the release of Strait’s debut album “Strait Country” in 1981, which featured the hit single “Unwound.”
Chart-Topping Singles and No. 1 Hits
George Strait and the Ace in the Hole Band’s collaboration resulted in an impressive string of No. 1 hits. Their first chart-topper came in 1982 with “Fool Hearted Memory.”
Over the years, they achieved:
- 60 No. 1 singles across various country music charts
- 44 Billboard Hot Country Songs No. 1 hits
- A record for the most No. 1 hits in any genre
Some of their notable No. 1 singles include:
- “The Chair” (1985)
- “Ocean Front Property” (1987)
- “Love Without End, Amen” (1990)
Enduring Presence in Country Music History
The Ace in the Hole Band’s influence extends beyond chart success. They have been integral to shaping modern country music. Their consistent sound and high-quality performances have earned them respect from fans and peers alike.
Key achievements include:
- Multiple Country Music Association (CMA) Awards
- Grammy Award wins
- Induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame (George Strait, 2006)
The band’s longevity is remarkable, with many original members remaining throughout their decades-long career. This consistency has contributed to their distinctive sound and enduring appeal in country music.
Musical Style and Influences
The Ace in the Hole Band’s sound blends traditional country with Western swing and honky-tonk elements. This unique mix reflects George Strait’s musical roots and the band’s commitment to preserving classic country styles.
Western Swing and Bob Wills’ Legacy
Western swing heavily influenced the Ace in the Hole Band’s sound. Bob Wills, the “King of Western Swing,” left an indelible mark on their music. The band incorporated fiddles, steel guitars, and upbeat rhythms characteristic of this genre.
They often performed covers of Bob Wills’ classics, keeping his legacy alive. This fusion of jazz, blues, and country elements gave their performances a danceable quality that resonated with audiences.
Traditional Country and Honky-Tonk Sounds
The band’s core sound remained firmly rooted in traditional country music. They embraced the twangy guitars, heartfelt vocals, and storytelling lyrics that defined the genre.
Honky-tonk influences were evident in their music, with prominent piano and steel guitar parts. This style, born in Texas dance halls, fit perfectly with George Strait’s vocals and the band’s energetic performances.
The Ace in the Hole Band’s commitment to these classic sounds helped maintain their popularity even as country music trends shifted.
Contribution to the Music Business
The Ace in the Hole Band played a crucial role in preserving traditional country music during a time when the industry was moving towards a more pop-influenced sound.
Their success proved that there was still a strong market for classic country styles. This influenced other artists and record labels, encouraging a renewed interest in traditional country music.
The band’s longevity and consistent sound helped establish George Strait as a country music icon. Their backing instrumental work became a benchmark for quality in country music performances.
Tragedy and Resilience
The Ace in the Hole band faced a devastating loss that tested their resolve. Despite the tragedy, the group demonstrated remarkable strength and perseverance in continuing their musical journey.
The Devastating Car Accident
On September 25, 2018, Mike Kennedy, the long-time drummer for Ace in the Hole, lost his life in a tragic car accident. Kennedy had been a vital member of the band since 1991, contributing his talents to George Strait’s performances for nearly three decades.
The accident occurred on Interstate 40 in Lebanon, Tennessee. Kennedy’s vehicle collided with a tractor-trailer that had merged into his lane. The 59-year-old musician died at the scene.
This sudden loss sent shockwaves through the country music community and deeply affected the band members.
The Aftermath and Band’s Continuation
In the wake of Kennedy’s passing, Ace in the Hole faced the challenge of moving forward without their beloved drummer. The band took time to grieve and honor Kennedy’s memory.
George Strait paid tribute to his friend and bandmate during performances, acknowledging Kennedy’s significant contributions to their music.
Despite the heartbreak, Ace in the Hole chose to continue their musical legacy. They brought in a new drummer to fill the void left by Kennedy, demonstrating their commitment to preserving the band’s sound and spirit.
The group’s resilience in the face of tragedy showcased their deep bonds and dedication to their craft. They continued to support George Strait’s performances, carrying on Kennedy’s musical legacy.
The Band Today
The Ace in the Hole Band continues to be a cornerstone of George Strait’s music. They maintain a stellar reputation in country music circles and influence up-and-coming artists.
Current Roster and Recent Performances
The Ace in the Hole Band boasts 11 members, led by keyboardist Ronnie Huckaby. Their lineup includes skilled musicians on guitar, drums, fiddle, and steel guitar.
The band performs regularly with George Strait, backing him during his concert residencies in Las Vegas. These shows, titled “Strait to Vegas,” began in 2016 and continue to draw large crowds.
In 2019, the band faced a tragic loss with the death of longtime drummer Mike Kennedy. Despite this setback, they have maintained their high-caliber performances.
Musical Legacy and Influence on New Artists
The Ace in the Hole Band’s impact on country music extends beyond their work with George Strait. Their tight musicianship and ability to seamlessly blend Western swing with contemporary country has inspired many artists.
Young country bands often study the Ace in the Hole Band’s arrangements and playing style. Their versatility in handling both upbeat dance tunes and emotional ballads serves as a masterclass for aspiring musicians.
The band’s longevity and consistency have set a standard in the industry. Many country artists cite the Ace in the Hole Band as a major influence on their own musical journeys and band formations.