Lincoln City receives thoughts and players

A tight-knit ensemble that delivers a vibrant mix of original songs with rich harmonies and seasoned musicianship will rock the Lincoln City Cultural Center this Saturday, Oct. 11.

Gary Ogan’s Think Tank is a four-piece band that brings to life the music of award-winning songwriter, producer, arranger and multi-instrumentalist Gary Ogan.

Sharing the stage with Ogan will be Carl Smith on drums and vocals, Ted Swenson on bass and vocals and Tony Carr on lead guitar and vocals.

A 2007 inductee into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame, Ogan is a veteran of more than 50 years in the music industry. His first major label release came in 1972 on Elektra Records, followed by his debut solo album in 1977 on Leon Russell’s Paradise Records. From there, Ogan toured extensively with major acts including Harry Chapin, The Hollies and Phoebe Snow, cementing his reputation as both a performer and songwriter.

In the mid-1990s, Ogan moved to Nashville, where he signed as a songwriter and expanded his career as a producer and arranger. He spent four years drumming for Americana great Darrell Scott, and another two producing Danny O’Keefe’s acclaimed album “Looking Glass & the Dreamers.”

More recently, Ogan has explored music inspired by his Aniyunwiya, or Cherokee, heritage, collaborating with activist icons like Ojibwe tribal member Winona LaDuke and the late John Trudell of Sante and Caw/Creek ancestry. He also serves as musical director and board member for the Jim Pepper Native Arts Council.

“I continue to learn, so it only follows that I continue to write, record and perform new music.” Ogan said. “I am most grateful, and life is good.”

Saturday’s show begins at 7 pm at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, located at 540 NE Hwy. 101. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more information, go to lincolncity-culturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.