Cheryl Wheeler concert April 8, 2006

Such noted and varied artists as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Janis Ian, Garth Brooks and Suzy Bogguss have performed her songs. Bette Midler praises her on national television. Now area audiences can see and hear what others find so special about Cheryl Wheeler when she performs on the stage of the Williamsburg Library Theatre on Saturday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m. The Williamsburg Library Theatre is located at 515 Scotland Street. This is another in the series of Dewey Decibel concerts sponsored by the Williamsburg Regional Library.

New Englander Wheeler grew up singing and performing music by her favorites -- Neil Young, Ian & Sylvia, and Graham Nash. The songwriting bug soon bit Wheeler and she began writing songs that invoked her intuitive powers and knack for quirkiness. She quickly attracted the attention of folk performers Gordon Lightfoot and Tom Rush, for whom she became an opening act. Dan Seals, whose version of Wheeler's "Addicted" was a Grammy-nominated country hit, first capitalized on her songwriting abilities.

Cheryl's music is difficult to pigeonhole. Most commonly found in the folk section of record stores, Wheeler has recorded 11 albums over the past 20 years. Her music has been recorded on more than 25 albums by country stars Vince Gill, Pam Tillis, Alison Krauss, Mark O'Connor and many more talented musicians and singers. Suzy Bogguss' version of "Aces" was a top country hit and Janis Ian co-wrote "Orbiting Jupiter" with Wheeler. Yet, Wheeler's lyrical prose and topical humor have not always been an easy fit with many cookie-cutter radio formats. It is just these qualities, however, that have earned her a passionate and growing following among those seeking outstanding music. All agree that her songs not only make you think, but feel.

Wheeler is particularly noted for her live performances. Her ability to spark emotions from one extreme to the other became well know among concertgoers. One minute audience members can't keep from laughing out loud to her pointed lyrics in songs like "Is it Peace or Prozac." Then the atmosphere becomes reflective as she sings of a lost relationship or of an aging loved one.

Whether you're questioning your sanity, wondering about gun-control, mourning a troubled relationship, or cruising down memory lane, Cheryl Wheeler know what you're trying to say and how to best express it through her words and music.

Event submitted by Eventful on behalf of programs.