Still on stage: Jerry Stormo has been entertaining in area bands for decades

Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, August 16th 2025 at 11:48 GMT by The Bemidji Pioneer, Minn.
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Aug. 16 BEMIDJI Jerry Stormo caught the music bug early. He remembers sitting on stage at the Lammers Town Hall in Solway, plunking his ukulele alongside the band, at the ripe old age of 6. Some 68 years later, Stormo is still at it, as leader of The Honky Tonk Troubadours, a four-piece country and Americana band that's been entertaining folks in the region for the last 11 years. It's the ...

Still on Stage: Jerry Stormo Continues to Captivate Audiences with Timeless Entertainment

In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, where trends come and go like fleeting shadows, there are a few enduring figures who defy the passage of time. Jerry Stormo, a veteran performer whose career spans over six decades, stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. At 82 years old, Stormo shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to grace stages across the Midwest with his unique blend of music, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling. His latest performances, including a sold-out show at the historic Paramount Theatre in St. Cloud, Minnesota, have once again reminded fans why he remains a beloved icon in the regional entertainment scene.

Born in 1941 in a small farming community in rural Minnesota, Jerry Stormo's journey into the spotlight began humbly. Raised during the post-World War II era, he discovered his love for music at an early age, influenced by the radio broadcasts of legends like Hank Williams and Bing Crosby. By his teenage years, Stormo was already performing at local fairs and community events, honing his skills on the guitar and developing a charismatic stage presence that would become his trademark. It wasn't long before he formed his first band, The Stormo Brothers, with his siblings, blending country, rockabilly, and folk influences into a sound that resonated with heartland audiences.

Stormo's big break came in the 1960s when he caught the attention of regional promoters. He toured extensively throughout the Upper Midwest, sharing stages with emerging stars of the era and building a loyal following. His repertoire expanded to include original songs that captured the essence of everyday life—tales of love, loss, and the simple joys of rural America. One of his early hits, "Prairie Winds," became a staple on local radio stations, earning him a reputation as a songwriter with a poet's touch. But it wasn't just his music that set him apart; Stormo's comedic interludes, often improvised and self-deprecating, turned his shows into full-fledged entertainment experiences. Audiences didn't just come to hear him sing—they came to laugh, reflect, and feel connected.

As the decades rolled on, Stormo adapted to changing musical landscapes without losing his core identity. The 1970s saw him experimenting with folk-rock elements, while the 1980s brought collaborations with younger artists, introducing his timeless style to new generations. He even dabbled in television, appearing on regional variety shows and hosting his own short-lived program, "Stormo's Stage," which featured up-and-coming talents alongside his own performances. Through it all, Stormo maintained a grounded approach, often crediting his family and faith for keeping him centered amid the highs and lows of show business.

Now, in what many might consider his golden years, Jerry Stormo is busier than ever. His current tour, aptly named "Still Stormin'," features a mix of classic hits, new compositions, and interactive segments where he shares anecdotes from his storied career. At a recent performance in Fargo, North Dakota, Stormo enthralled a diverse crowd ranging from octogenarians who grew up with his music to millennials discovering him through social media clips. "I've got stories that could fill a book," he quipped during one set, before launching into a hilarious recount of a disastrous gig in the 1970s where a power outage forced him to perform acapella by flashlight.

What keeps Stormo going? In interviews, he emphasizes the joy of connection. "Entertainment isn't just about the spotlight; it's about touching hearts," he says. He speaks fondly of fans who've followed him for decades, some even bringing their grandchildren to shows. Stormo also stays active in community efforts, using his platform to support local charities, particularly those aiding veterans and rural education. His involvement in annual benefit concerts has raised thousands for causes close to his heart, reflecting a life philosophy that extends beyond the stage.

Critics and fans alike praise Stormo's enduring appeal. Music historian Dr. Elena Vargas notes, "Jerry represents the unsung heroes of American roots music—artists who never chased fame in Hollywood but built empires in their hometowns." His shows are a masterclass in showmanship: seamless transitions between soulful ballads like "Midnight Train to Nowhere" and upbeat numbers that get the audience clapping along. Stormo's voice, though weathered by time, carries a warmth and authenticity that digital auto-tune could never replicate.

Looking ahead, Stormo has no plans to retire. He's working on a memoir tentatively titled "Stormo Stories: A Life in Tune," which promises to delve deeper into his experiences, from rubbing elbows with country greats to navigating the challenges of an independent career. There are whispers of a documentary in the works, capturing his live performances and personal reflections. For now, though, he's content to keep touring, with upcoming dates in Wisconsin and Iowa.

In an industry often dominated by youth and novelty, Jerry Stormo's story is a refreshing reminder that true talent ages like fine wine. His ability to entertain, inspire, and unite audiences across generations underscores the timeless nature of genuine artistry. As he takes the stage night after night, microphone in hand and guitar strapped on, Stormo proves that the show must—and will—go on. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, catching one of his performances is more than just a night out; it's a celebration of life's enduring rhythm.

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Still on stage: Jerry Stormo has been entertaining in area bands for decades

Still on Stage: Jerry Stormo Continues to Captivate Audiences with Timeless Entertainment