Tributes don’t get more authentic than this. This July, see Loretta Lynn’s original touring band, The Coalminers, playing the songbook they know inside out. They’re joined by vocal sensation Emily Portman filling Lynn’s enormous boots. Don’t miss what will surely be a night of country music history at the Island Showroom in Harris, Michigan.
The Queen of Country
Loretta Lynn was a true country music pioneer. Her powerful voice graced numerous hits and broke down industry barriers during her six-decade career. Her authenticity, embodiment of rags-to-riches success and willingness to speak out about women’s issues endeared her to millions of fans.
In 1972, she became the first woman to be named “Entertainer of the Year” by the Country Music Association. In 1988, she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. She even received a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013.
Beginning with her 1960 debut single, “I’m a Honky Tonk Girl,” Lynn released dozens of beloved country hits. Songs like “Before I’m Over You,” “Wine, Women and Song” and the iconic “Coal Miner’s Daughter” made Lynn country music’s first number-one female artist.
Along with the constant flow of radio hits, Lynn’s 1976 autobiography Coal Miner’s Daughter and the 1980 accompanying film cemented her fame. Starring Sissy Spacek, the film follows Lynn’s rise from her humble beginnings as a poor 15-year-old child bride to a country music sensation.
Thanks to the Jack White-produced album Van Lear Rose, Loretta Lynn experienced a late-career resurgence. She released her 50th studio album, Still Woman Enough, in 2021. Her legacy continues to be acknowledged today, even after her death in 2022.
Hear It Straight From The Coalminers
Always Loretta is a tribute like no other. You’ll see and hear the original musicians who backed Loretta Lynn for 50 years. Led by guitarist David Thornhill, who first played with Lynn in 1967, the band will play all the beloved hits and tell personal stories of their time together.
Best of all, the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions about Loretta Lynn to the people who knew her best. Lynn herself famously said, “I’ve played all over the world, and this is the only band that did all my stuff just like the record.”
On vocals is Kentucky native Emily Portman, who began singing in church and playing music in her high school band. In 2004, after learning guitar and performing professionally, Ms. Portman won the “Sing Like” contest at the Kentucky Opry for her portrayal of Loretta.
For two decades, she toured in numerous music and theater productions and even became friends with Lynn. After Lynn’s death in 2022, Portman joined with The Coalminers to create Always Loretta.
Learn more about the performers and the band’s history at Always Loretta.com.
You’re Lookin’ at Country
Relive the Classics, Celebrate the Legends: Experience ultimate tributes and timeless hits at the Island. Get your tickets for this unique tribute to the queen of country music. The Coalminers are sure to deliver a special night of song and stories on the Island stage.
Show Details:
- Date: July 5, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM ET Showtime / Doors at 7:15 PM
- Location: Island Showroom
- Ticket Price: $20
Stay up to date with special promotions and events.