Members of Riders in the Sky, appearing Sunday at Hanford’s Historic Fox Theatre, are known as the keepers of the flame passed on by Gene Autry and Roy Rogers.

For 30 years they have remained true to Western music, but have also become modern-day icons with their own genre of wacky humor and Western wit. They encourage buckaroos and buckarettes to live life “The Cowboy Way!”

The band, which has won two Grammys, was formed by a theoretical plasma physicist, a wildlife manager, an English major and a Polka Hall of Fame member. More than 30 years later, the original members are still entertaining. The key to keeping the same founding members intact, unlike the Rolling Stones or the Beatles, is explained by Ranger Doug: “Separate hotel rooms.”

Riders in the Sky’s first official public performance was Nov. 11, 1977 in Nashville. Taking the stage that night for a crowd of eight or nine were Ranger Doug on arch-top guitar, Too Slim on bunkhouse bass and Woody Paul on fiddle. They subsequently added Joey the Cowpolka King on accordion and they all sang.

As a classic cowboy quartet, the Riders have chalked up more than 5,400 concert appearances in all 50 states and 10 countries. They have appeared at Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl. The never-ending trail drive continues. In 2006, Ranger Doug’s “Classic Cowboy Corral” debuted on XM (now XmSirius) Satellite Radio and can be heard weekly.

Adding to the fun will be special guest Chlesea Williams, a country singer, guitarist and song writer.

“Riders in the Sky"

This Sunday!

When: Sunday at 3 p.m.

Where: Fox Theatre, 326 N. Irwin St.

Info: Tickets are $25. Call 584-7823.

(Nov. 13, 2009)