Willie Jones Sings at the Louisiana Hayride’s 65th Anniversary

"X Factor" contestant and Shreveport resident Willie Jones was on the stage of the Cradle of the Stars on Saturday (Feb. 23) to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Louisiana Hayride.

Willie took to the historic stage of the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium and belted out Lionel Richie’s monster hit, “Easy.” It wasn’t just a clone, however. Jones made it his own, much to the delight of the audience of around 1,700. Many in the crowd wore bright orange t-shirts with the logo “Team Willie” emblazoned across the back.

The Louisiana Hayride's 65^th Anniversary celebrated the rich music and radio history of northwest Louisiana. Appreciation awards were made to many of the original cast and crew members of the Hayride’s peak years of 1948 to 1960, as well as to area radio notables.

Lt. Governor Jay Darden was the night’s MC on a bill that included one of Shreveport's rising star, Dirtfoot, and the Louisiana Hayride Heritage Band.