BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2025 February 5, Wednesday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
editor@blairtoday.com – Facebook
Imagine familiar hits from seven decades reimagined through an acoustic guitar on Valentine’s Day. That’s what Omaha musician Don Wurtz promises for his upcoming performance at Just Mary’s in Blair, where he’ll transform everything from Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” to Jerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street” into intimate acoustic arrangements.
“You’re going to know the songs and be able to sing along,” says Wurtz, who crafts three-hour sets from his 120-song repertoire, spanning from 1950s classics to current hits. His performances weave through rock, folk, country, and pop, keeping audiences engaged with unexpected transitions – a Beatles song might follow a Jim Croce tune, or Tom Petty’s “Wildflowers” might lead into a Lumineers cover.
What sets Wurtz apart is his ability to reinvent familiar songs for solo acoustic guitar. His version of “Billie Jean” blends influences from The Civil Wars and Chris Cornell, while his take on “Baker Street” reimagines the iconic saxophone riff through six strings. “When people hear you jump from a Tom Petty song to Sam Cooke, it keeps them guessing,” he says.
The path to becoming one of Omaha’s sought-after acoustic performers started with a Christmas gift from his wife ten years ago – an acoustic guitar. After two years of lessons, Wurtz, who previously spent 20 years as a karaoke DJ, began performing for friends. “I just wanted to play on my own and get away from the karaoke scene,” he recalls. A local bar owner’s invitation led to regular gigs, and word-of-mouth recommendations built his current career playing venues across the metro area, from intimate bars to wineries and hotel restaurants.
Drawing inspiration from his seven siblings’ diverse musical tastes, Wurtz carefully selects songs that resonate with both him and his audience. “If you don’t enjoy it, the crowd won’t enjoy it,” he explains, adapting his setlist to each venue’s atmosphere. His wife, his biggest supporter, attends nearly every performance, adding to the warm, familiar atmosphere he creates.
For his Valentine’s Day performance, Wurtz promises an evening of acoustic magic at Just Mary’s. His unique interpretations breathe new life into beloved classics while maintaining their singalong appeal. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or simply enjoy live music in an intimate setting, Don Wurtz delivers the perfect soundtrack for your Valentine’s celebration. Join him Friday, February 14th at Just Mary’s in Blair, where familiar tunes take on surprising new life through the strings of his acoustic guitar.
