Thanks Gene, that's great information. I'm glad you were able to identify so many great talents from this clip. I just spoke to another acquaintance who told me he thought Perry has passed away from cancer in the late 60s and his widow Lucille just recently passed away last year in Arlington TX, where she had gone to live with her daughter after Perry passed away. She was 81 years old. I am guessing Perry must have been a relatively young man when he passed away. You guys made some great music. Take care and keep pickin'. Steve

Steve, that is definately Perry Jones singing on that recording. I also recognized steel player Gene Crownover (formerly with Bob Wills), trumpet player Dubert Dobson(formerly with Hank Thompson), and fiddle players Benny Kubiac & Jim Horton. 

There were also other "Diamondaire" recordings in the 1960's.

Gene,

Thanks for the info. Sad to hear about Perry, he must not have been very old to have passed in the 60s. My Dad enjoyed the Diamondairs music a lot. By the way here is a link to the record on ebay and you can listen to the audio:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/PERRY-JONES-BOOTS-BRAY-WESTERN-SWING-HEAR-VG-/260841776383 . You may be able to identify if it is the same Perry Jones. I was young back then so I never actually heard Perry but my Dad was a big western swing fan and enjoyed both Merle and Perry and the Diamondairs music. Thanks again.

Steve, I'm not familiar with Boots Bray or his connection with the Perry Jones/Diamond Ballroom.

But, as you surmised, the Perry Jones I was associated with of that era did pass sway in the 1960's.  Thank you for visiting my website and for your inquiry.

Best wishes,

Gene

Gene,

I came across on old 45 on the Diamondairs record label by Perry Jones and Boots Bray. Is this the same Perry Jones that you used to play with at the Diamond Ballroom? I have been curious as to whatever happened to Perry as he seemed to disappear in the late 60s or early 70s and someone told me they thought he may have passed away. Can you confirm that or share what might have happened to him? I know he and the Diamondairs were pretty popular back in the day. Thanks.

I have answered the previous e-mail, but it was returned as not a valid address. 

Darryl, I am not on facebook.  I was, but found that it required more time to manage it than I had available.

Are you on Facebook?

Thanks Barry, I've sent you a private e-mail pertaining to your comments.

No Dennis, that would have been either Lew Houston or John Hughey.

Love you too Sharon (my youngest daughter and my favorite attorney). Looking forward to the burgers and home made ice cream next sunday.

Happy Father's Day!  (People might be surprised to know I exist, but promise I've been around since 1957 or so ).  Love you, Sharon

Yeah Mickey, good country up there. When I was with Merl we played the civic auditoriums in Sioux Falls and Omaha and had tremendous crowds.

My recent years to that area has been on my Harley attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.  Planning to go again for about the 5th time, next year.

Take care my friend Micky,

In Cheyenne, WY.....be back in OKC late Thurs