JIM WILSON

Pedal Steel and Lead Guitar, Bass Guitar, Vocals

Jim began his music career at the age of 14, learning the guitar with a little motivation from his dad.  He had his first playing gig at the age of 17 with the Cameos, a well known rock and roll band in the Huntingdon area.  He also played locally with Fred Bunn and the Imperials, George Reihart and the Fugitives, as well as Vernon Dale and the Outlaws.   Jim went on to learn the pedal steel  under the guiding hands of renowned Nashville steel players Jeff Newman and Buddy Emmons, and played with the Country Inspirations for a number of years through the mid '80's.  After a 10 year hiatus, he returned to playing at local music jams and with a number of local bands including Country Junction before landing a spot with Make Mine Country.   He is best known for his riveting steel licks, his leads on the Telecaster and his fine vocals.

SHELBY STRAW NESTLER

Rhythm Guitar, Bass Guitar, Banjo, Mandolin, Vocals

Shelby began singing at age 7 with a little coaxing from  her dad, singing country favorites of his which eventually became her favorites as well.  She honed her vocal and harmony abilities while singing and playing with her dad's band, The Moonlighters.  Shelby "semi-retired" for 15 years to raise her two kids, and about 7 years ago, returned to performing.  Over the past few years, she has had the privilege of performing with Nashville artists David Frizzell, Tommy Cash and Darryl Lee O'Donnell, and local well-known band Country Legend.   In 2006, she formed the band, Make Mine Country, following a request from the executive office at the Pennsylvania Farm Show to provide music during the weeklong event.   Shelby's distinct voice can be heard on lead and harmony vocals on most of the Make Mine Country songs.  She recorded two of her original songs Nashville in July 2008, and in June 2009 and March 2010 was featured at the world famous Wheeling Jamboree. 

RON STEWART

Bass and Rhythm Guitar, Vocals

Many of the members of the band have followed in their father's footsteps. That is the same with Ronnie Stewart.  His dad was an accomplished, Chet Atkins style guitarist in the Mt. Union area for many years whose band, the Jack's Mountain Boys, Ron played in.  Ronnie won his first talent show at the age of 8 and has gone on to win many more over the years.  Ron is great bass and rhythm player as well as a great vocalist whose songs range from a foot stomping Grandpa Jones tune to those slow ballads that made Conway Twitty and Vern Gosdin famous.

JIM MILLS

Drums, Percussion

We are happy to have Jim Mills from Huntingdon playing drums for the band.  A steadier beat you'll never find.  Jim has played drums from a young age, playing in bars and clubs since the age of 14.  He has played with a number of bands over the years, doing all types of music.  Jim is a perfect addition to the band.

ERNIE BOONIE

Drums, Percussion

Ernie Boonie is a great addition to the band on drums and percussion.  He tells a great joke also!! Ernie started playing the drums at the age of 5 and played his first gig at the age of 15.  He is from a long line of musicians in his family tree.  His uncle Don and his dad, Dan were members of the popular Country Inspirations band along with brothers Jim and Alen Wilson.  And brother Mark is also a fine bass player.  We are fortunate to have him with the band.