NEWS: January 2024
Great news! My thumb surgery: DONE! Back surgery: DONE Knee repair: DONE
I am back playing and practicing daily now until something else breaks! I am starting it off on February 23 at the CPS Festival! I am excited as I was unable to play most of last year! I’m also working daily in my studio with updated software! My second album is round the corner!
Thoughts
Sometimes life seems like a whirlwind. All of a sudden, there it is – holding all your interest – but soon goes back to dust. So it is in the life of a musician, one day the whole world seems to be watching, then in a blink of an eye, the whole world is looking somewhere else.
I’ve been told the story of the “Millwright or the Poet” and found it only too true with most musicians that were Soldiers first and musicians second. There was a point of necessity in deciding what path to choose early on in life. I chose being the Soldier. Finally, the day had become that I can be the musician.
Who knows where it will all lead. My new journey started after retirement at 56 and adventures await me. My intent is to share the gift of music that God has given me as I embark on this new direction He is taking me. My hope is that it will not be like a “whirlwind” and that what I do will be enjoyed by audiences for a long time.
Slowing down to finish up the second album is the current story and helping family with construction projects, granddaughters’ growing to adulthood and moving on to college, and more. It has been both exciting and time consuming. I do plan to get back out there more in the future. Then I plan on slowing down the gigging and more studio recording time and special events.
Gary Lee Wingard is a solo artist based in St. Augustine, FL; a singer/songwriter/guitarist who blends classic rock, southern rock and pop as well as a little country into a sound that all ages will enjoy. Gary does cover songs as well as originals. The resonant sound of Gary’s voice and the rich sounds of his Les Paul Custom guitar will keep people swaying with the music and at times even singing along. He can also woo a crowd with his acoustic guitar. Gary’s experiences includes being a member of the Jacksonville band Stratus in the late 70s, early 80s, playing lead guitar and back up vocals. He has also been a member of several praise and worship teams including True North based out of St. Augustine in 1998. In 2005, he started the Military Benefit Band 3UP3DOWN who play around central and NE Florida at Military events. What separates Gary Lee Wingard from other solo artists you ask? With emphasis on high quality performances of classic rock songs from top artists of yesterday and today, its pretty much a guarantee you’ll hear your favorite songs. Gary performs these songs with respect, a bit of originality and a special little something extra that separates him from all the rest. His original songs are relevant and reflects his feelings about life. Gary Lee Wingard is able to play any size venue from small coffee shops at low volumes to happy hours to large festival stages. He prides himself on being able to adapt to any musical situation.
GIG SALAD:
I am a retired Soldier, having served 38 years, and now pursing a career in music. I provide my audiences with velvety smooth yet rhythmical musical arrangements during well groomed and rehearsed shows – an easy listening environment; mellow, entertaining and meaningful with a non-abrasive style that sooths the soul. I have been involved with music over the years – a rock band in the late 70s in Jacksonville, FL and then while in the military I performed with my church praise and worship team and also formed a military benefit band that played at military conferences 2005-2009. Retired in April 2008 and now enjoying sharing my music with people around the United States.
Playing Out:
2013:
St. Augustine, FL – Raintree, Cellar 6, Harry’s Seafood Restaurant, Uptown Saturday nite, Tim’s Wine Market, Cathedral Parish Annual Festival, Mile Marker Tap Room, CPS Oyster Roast, The Standard featured in the Singer/Songwriter Night.
Atlantic Bch, FL – North Beach Bistro
Jacksonville, FL The Speckled Hen, Matthew’s Restaurant
Ponte Vedra Bch – Table 1, Pussers Grille, Island Girl
Daytona Bch – Daytona Live Main Street Festival
Jeykll Island, GA – Seajays Seafood Pub and Grill
Palatka, FL – Chili’s
Charleston, SC – Awendaw Green Barn Jam
Staunton, VA – Byers Street Bistro
Manchester, VT – The Perfect Wife Restaurant, VFW Post 6471
Portland, ME – Dog Fish Café
Lubec, ME – Cohill’s Pub and Restaurant
Stonington, ME – Fisherman’s Friend Restaurant
Medina, NY – KOA
Sioux Falls, SD – Minerva’s Restaurant – Paramount Studio
Sylva, NC – City Lights Café
2014:
St. Augustine, FL – Raintree, Harry’s Seafood Restaurant, Uptown Saturday Night, Friday Night Art walk at Tim’s Wine Market, CPS Annual Festival and Oyster Roast, Courtyard Marriott, Lincolnville’s Farmer’s Market
Atlantic Beach, FL – North Beach Bistro
Jeykll Island, GA – Seajays Seafood Pub and Grill]
Palm Coast,FL – Hammock Wine and Cheese
Flagler Beach, FL – Sweetwaters BBQ and Restaurant
Daytona Bch, FL – Daytona Live Festival
Starke, FL – FL NG Retiree Conference
Orlando, FL – Hunter’s Creek Relay For Life
2015:
Saint Augustine, FL – Tim’s Wine Market, Friday Night Art walk and Uptown Saturday Night for Amistad Fair Trade, Center for Spiritual Living, Relay For Life Golf World Village
Palm Coast, FL – Hammock Wine and Cheese,
Flagler Beach, FL – Beach House Beanery
Ponte Vedra, FL – Nocatee Dick’s Wings
Orlando, FL – Hunter’s Creek Relay for Life
Atkinson, NE – Michelle’s Restaurant and Lounge
2016-19
South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Ney York, Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Montana, Pennsylvania, Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, British Columbia, Nebraska, Maine
Jacksonville – Icemen Events
St. Augustine – Carrera’s Wine Cellar, CPS Festival, Amistad, Tim’s Wine Market
Camp Blanding Military Events – 15th Anniversity of 911
Some Photos:
Review of My CD by:
RadioIndy and NeuFutur Magazine
September 2012: RadioIndy: Gary Lee Wingard releases a spectacular collection of Soft Rock songs on his wonderful CD, “Once There Was a Man.” This album has a nice selection of songs that will leave you wanting to hear more from this artist. The title track, “Once There Was a Man,” offers an upbeat tempo with charming vocals singing insightful lyrics. The songs, “You’re So Sexy” and “Never Land” are magnetic as they have a more edgier Rock groove. Another song, “The Road Ahead,” has a Bluesy appeal as the relaxed vocals and dynamic instrumentation flow with an expressive tonality. If you like the sounds of Bob Seger or Hootie and the Blowfish, then you will enjoy the excellent variety of Soft Rock songs on the wonderful album, “Once There Was a Man.”
October 2012: NeuFutur Magazine: Seems To Be Raining is a complex and dense track that soars on the interaction between instrumental and vocal sides. There are hints of rock, country, and even John Denver-esque pop that is present during this track. Wingard is able to establish a very contemporary type of sound that is imbued with a wide array of influences and styles. I Really Love You contains the emotional intensity that is needed to capture and keep listeners interested throughout the disc.
I feel that the very deliberate guitar work on I Really Love You sets it off from similar efforts, and showcases that Wingard needs nothing else than a guitar and his vocals to shine. Never Land is a track that is distinct from the rest of the album, and I feel that it’s location on Once There Was A Man is inspired. This track has a more pointed and rock-based feel to it, providing a boost to the album’s momentum. Wingard is able to keep listeners guessing even into these late registers, and I feel that Never Land’s inclusion (and sizzling guitar solo) showcases his skill.
The Road Ahead represents a comparable addition to Wingard’s palette, as the presence of a harmonica at the beginning of the track brings listeners to a smoky blues hall. Few albums are able to stand as full works, but Once There Was A Man is a rare example of hitting on all cylinders with each subsequent effort. Check out Wingard’s website and see exactly when he hits up a venue around you. I hope that he is able to continue expanding and evolving his inimitable style.
Top Tracks: Once There Was A Man, The Road Ahead, When I Come Home
Update $ collected for the American Cancer Society:
From 2014 to 1018, donations from my tip jar to the American Cancer Society were over $5,000.00. It was indeed rewarding to give and I encourage other musicians to donate to this great organization’s cause. The fight against cancer is not over as it appears to be the plight of the ages. However, advancements have come and movements to cure and treat cancer can be on its way to greater heights if we all pull together.
It has been two years since my prostate surgery and I’m back on the road again with a new zeal and appreciation for life after cancer.
We are routing our trip From April to September with Maine as the farthest destination from home.
Carolyn is scheduling all the “play” stops along the way. Hope to see you somewhere, sometime!
Messages from others:
- Bezombes family Virginia beach, VA Jul 5 2014 2:34 AM Great Fourth of July in Valdez, Alaska, with you and your beautiful music. Really enjoyed it! See you in Virginia!
www.parlamer.net - Chuck Brunicardi Musician Jun 12 2014 8:43 AM “Once There Was” top notch song writing and voice Gary. Very moving arrangement. All the best
- Slam Horse Musician Jun 2 2014 12:55 PM Great tracks! I especially enjoyed Once There Was a Man–well written and great lyrics! Like your good vocals and guitar talent! Thank you for your support! All the best…
- Val Wright Ponte Vedra Bch, FL Jun 2 2014 12:50 PM Gary Lee was perfect for our small party on the deck of the beach house. He entertained us with stories, and played all our favorites, as well as some excellent original tunes. He was polite and punctual and very easy. His wife, Carolyn was delightful and a great addition to our party. He made our birthday party all the more special. And, he can really play!
- Jan Strimple Productions Irving, TX Nov 1 2012 5:52 AM . I loved your song .. and the personal message that it’s about your life and finding music as a fuel at this point in your lifetime…love it
- Rick & Deborah Long St Augustine, FL Jun 4 2012 11:04 AM Wonderful easy listening afternoon on the beach at Paula’s Beachside Cafe this past Sunday June 3rd. Still listening our way through the CD. Keep up the good work, and good luck with your new career!
- Ty Cowell St. Augustine, FL Jun 3 2012 5:51 PM After several complete listenings, I must say I am proud of you! This CD is masterful. Your vocals and the production of the whole thing are amazing, a big improvement over the 6-song EP (which I also like). As always, I love your guitar work, lead and rhythm. You write wonderful melodies. I’m hoping I can reach that point someday. The songs tie together as a theme, as you intended. Where did the bass, keyboards, drums, and horns come from? They add great depth to a very well- written group of songs. I guess I’m saying I really like your CD, and I can’t wait to take it back to my home state of PA so friends and family there can give a listen.
- Jana & Friends Speckled hen Feb 20 2012 9:41 AM We really enjoyed listening to you and also meeting your lovely wife on Friday 2/17/2012 at the Speckled Hen. Will be making efforts to listen to you again soon.
Thanks!!! Must be nice to have a talent like yours!
Good job. - dee wright jax fl Oct 13 2011 9:23 AM IIimade it good job play some of that old stuff from years ago like
- David and Sarah Morrell Jacksonville, Florida Sep 5 2011 4:24 AM Had a great late night coffe and dessert at Three Layers in Jacksonville. We really enjoyed your music, good voice and southern rock style. Cool venue, great music…we will be there when you are back in October!
Carol & Richard Strunin Colchester, Vermont
Aug 15 2011 4:40 AM
Thanks for such an enjoyable evening. We loved your music and soothing voice; especially your original songs!
Cohill’s Inn Lubec, ME
Aug 1 2011 9:52 AM
Carolyn & Gary,
Thanks for your kind words, but the pleasure was all ours. I hope we can work
something out for a future at Cohill’s Inn.Once again, thanks for providing a
great night for our guests!
Jack
Pat and Glenn Stone On the raod
Jul 27 2011 5:04 AM
What a great evening of Southern Rock and R & B. It was great having such good music in the Maine North Woods.
Mary Weston Calais, Maine
Jul 17 2011 7:11 AM
Had a wonderful time last night listening to your music at Cohill’s Inn in Lubec, Maine…did a great job fulfilling all those Skynyrd requests too! Hope we get to see you again somewhere…sometime…hope you’re enjoying your stay in Downeast Maine!
Alec Wall Portland ME
Jul 17 2011 7:09 AM
Gary gets around….He and his wife joined us at OMN at Andy’s Old Port Pub on Monday. He put on great show. Great originals and covers. He is traveling the country and you will see him in a city near you soon. A must see……
Barbara Piet St. Augustine, FL
Jul 14 2011 1:58 AM
I am glad that you have found the time to do something you really like to do. Thank you also for serving our country. I know you never hear enough of that. My husband was Retired Navy. God bless you and Carolyn. I also hear that you have some wonderful neighbors now.
Pat Pfeffer and Dick Warren Ohio
Jul 2 2011 9:05 AM
Saw you at the Northside in Akron…just got a taste of what you can do. Love your original songs…please get an album together…and get it to some of the disc jockies…now come back to Kent and do a gig at the Kent Stage…we can help with promotion at this end.