Caleb Cook Band to perform at Freedom Plaza on June 16

By Brett McMahon

When the Caleb Cook Band takes the stage at the Freedom Plaza in Mahomet on Friday, June 16, the free show will be special for the frontman.

Cook, who plays mostly country music standards with a few originals sprinkled in, has been playing gigs for 20 years, particularly across Illinois and Indiana. But as a resident of Mahomet, Cook is looking forward to playing in front of his family.

With musical influences steeped in classic and traditional country, Cook sings lead and plays guitar during his shows. When asked about other instruments, he confesses he plays a bit of piano, base, and drums, but mostly for fun and not at a level to perform live.

His musical influences range from Hank Williams to Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash to Jerry Reed and Bob Wills, known as The King of Western Swing.

“My goal has always been to preserve the sound of traditional country,” he said.

That sound had been drowned out in recent years in favor of a more inclusive hybrid style incorporating Pop and Hip Hop but is seemingly making a slow return, with appreciation and admiration for the traditional sound showing growth.

Despite playing 800 shows over a span of two decades, Cook estimates he and the band will play only 20-30 this year.

He says “We used to play 150 shows a year, but with kids and life, the shows have slowed down.”

Those upcoming shows include an appearance at Riggs Fest in Champaign on June 23 and another at Huber’s in Champaign on July 1. At the concerts, the band’s self-titled CD, The Caleb Cook Band will be available for purchase. The Extended Play can also be found on streaming platforms.

When asked which of his musical heroes he’d most like to share the stage with, whether they are living or dead, Cook says without question, the late Jerry Reed would be his choice. “He was the ultimate entertainer, singer, guitar player, and songwriter. He checked all the boxes,” he says.

Mahomet’s June 16 concert will begin at 6 p.m. with food trucks including Ice Daddy’s, Maize Food Truck, Watson’s Shack & Rail, and Maria’s Kitchen. Freedom Plaza is located on Main Street between the Village Administration Building and Sangamon on Main.