Bret Lucich – Performer boasts truly a one-man-show on multiple instruments
By Taska Barlow
Yes, it’s been said many times, but needs to be said once more: Bret Lucich is the one of the most incredible performers you’ll ever see at Buffalo Bill’s and more!
Whether being teamed with his band for a big stage show, or shining as the one-man-band that he carries in his own unique way, he is an absolutely must see! Lucich carries an impressive list of credits that includes Colorado ski resorts, Nevada casinos and many West Coast resorts, just to name a few.
Wherever he performs, his contracts are extended because of crowd demands. As a result of one of those extended engagements, an eight-year continuous gig at Salishan Lodge, Lucich bought a home on the beach in Lincoln City. The slogan on the billboards for Chinook Winds, It’s Better At The Beach, resulted in a crowd-pleaser-original, penned by Lucich himself. It will be included on his next CD, soon to go into production.
Lucich is capable of recording and playing every instrument to accompany his amazing vocals and extensive range. He demonstrates this capability by taking five hours to set up his stage, surrounding himself with a minimum of four keyboards, brass, drums, guitar, congas and a big assortment of hand-held percussion instruments. “When I’m doing a single act, my band is the crowd,” says Lucich in a recent conversation. This writer recently witnessed the back-up band as the dance floor at Buffalo Bill’s became filled with a happy audience, playing instruments, singing and dancing to the infectious It’s Better At The Beach.
Towering over his stages at 6’3”, Lucich’s heart is bigger than his frame and a fit one at that. “I try to treat my shows and audience with respect and in order to do that, I need to be in good shape, which is why I try to work out for three hours before each one. This gives me the stamina to do four-hour shows without a break.”
Like an “earth angel,” Lucich likes to help others, especially musician friends. “I want to help others because God’s blessed me so much with the good family I come from, my wonderful home at the coast and all the jobs I have.” Lucich continues, “Between God and me, I’m keeping on the straight and narrow—and it wasn’t always this way, so that’s why I like to help others whenever I can. Because of the economy, it’s tough out there for even some of the most talented musicians and performers, so I like to refer them to jobs whenever possible.”
Lucich especially enjoys performing at corporate events and venues that include kids. Last year at The Surf Tides, a 12-yr.old named Victoria told her parents that she wanted to spend her birthday with me. So I got her up on stage with her harmonica playing to Billy Joel’s Piano Man. You should have seen the look on her face when the enormous applause followed. It was precious memory-maker for sure!”
Another coastal event involving families was the recent Annual Sand Castle Contest in Taft, the first Saturday of August. Lucich says, “Over 3000 adults and children showed up and Tom Brosey, President of the Merchant’s Association, said it was the biggest one yet!”
A testament to Lucich’s loyal following was the limo full of ladies from Lincoln City’s Class of ’73, who came up to Buffalo Bill’s in Beavercreek recently, for their “Bret fix.” Lucich currently provides the weekend entertainment at Buffalo Bill’s on Friday and Saturday and a jam session/open mike on Sunday, with the new popular hours of 6-10 p.m., followed by Karaoke.
Buffalo Bill’s is located at 21950 Beavercreek Rd. (503) 632-3190. Lucich also headlines the happy hour venue at Irving’s Lounge in the Wilsonville Holiday Inn from 5-8 p.m. every week, located at 25425 S.W. 95th Ave, Wilsonville. (877) 859-5095.
It’s not only Better At The Beach, it’s better any night you are fortunate enough to get in front of Bret Lucich for top-drawer entertainment.
