Bucky Heard slid into a booth at Fuddruckers in Branson, MO., clueless that life was about to change dramatically. Across the table was Bill Medley, the unmistakable voice of the Righteous Brothers whose unforgettable melodies enticed Baby Boomers to the back seats of Chevys and Fords parked at drive-ins and secluded parks across the country.
Medley and Heard had become friendly acquaintances in the wooded lakeside town, now a Mecca for entertainers weary of the drudgery of touring. Tony Orlando, Roy Clark, the Osmond Family and many more built theaters and homes there. Heard explained it simply, “Andy Williams could sleep in his own bed every night.”
Medley went solo for thirteen years after the death of his partner Bobby Hatfield. That was about to change with the offer he presented to Heard, “The blend is there,” Medley said, “Are we going to do this?” Privately, Heard rejoiced, thinking, “I’m a friggin’ Righteous Brother!”
Today, ten years later, Medley looks forward to finally retiring from the road although still considering future dates at the South Point Casino. Heard sees his future as composer and solo artist.
He is releasing a new as yet untitled solo album next month. The album reflects the power of his eternal confidence. Two songs, “My Best Days” and “It Is What It Is (Till It Ain’t”) are available on streaming services.
Born in Dadeville, AL, a town of barely 3000, Heard says, “I grew up in Mayberry.”Heard began his stage journey entertaining his second grade class during show and tell.
In the late ‘80s, while attending college, he worked summer theater with Jim Nabors and others. Then came two decades aboard cruise ships as a cast member and lead before heading to Branson as a versatile tribute artist in Legends in Concert.
The multi-talented Heard recently completed the score for the off-Broadway musical, Mike and Mindy’s Wild Weekend Jam featuring Las Vegas’ Carmen Romano and his Heard’s daughter Cydney in a supporting role. Heard celebrated with cast members after a late night dinner with an impromptu jam of “Don’t Stop Believin’” under a NYC street light, a testament to his optimism.
