Mama Locke believes in 'country'

By MANDY SPIKES | Central Texas Edition

Pauline Reese, left, is one of the many musicians that Locke has tried to help in the music business. -- Photo by Mandy Spikes

July 24, 2003 -- Gloria Locke is not unlike many women. The native Waco resident is proud of her family and their many accomplishments. In particular, she is proud of her son because of what he has done and how he has helped other people.

"My son, Poodie, has been the stage manager for Willie Nelson for about 30 years now. He is responsible for everything that goes on stage," she said with a smile.

Poodie, who's real name is James, not only manages the stage for Nelson, he is also the owner of the popular establishment Poodie's Hilltop Bar and Grill. The grill, which is located in Spicewood right outside of Austin, allows up-and-coming singers to perform their music in front of an audience.

"All the people who come to eat there love the food. Our whole family likes to cook and, if I may add, we are all good cooks.

"Many starting musicians ask him if they can sing at his place and if he likes their singing ability, he will let them. My son likes to help them get started in the business, so he has no problem letting them play at the grill.

"There are even times when Willie will slip in and get something to eat. If he likes the performer, it's not uncommon for him to get up on stage and play with that person. It's a sign that he likes the musician, which is a pretty good indication that they are going to make it in the business."

Poodie's Hilltop Bar and Grill, located in Spicewood, is where many starting musicians get an opportunity to perform their music. -- Photo by Mandy Spikes

Locke said that Willie has played on stage at the grill with such musicians as Pat Green and Kevin Fowler.

"I also like to help these new musicians, if I can. When I go to Austin, I will bring a selection of food for them to eat. I feel that they need a good home cooked meal every once in a while. I don't mind taking care of them, which is probably why they call me Mama Locke."

She stated that she is famous for her butter beans, fried okra, pork chops, and hot water corn bread. "I also try to help them by sending their promotional CD's to local businesses so they can play at their establishment. I don't mind helping them, especially those who sing in the 'old country' style. There wouldn't be any new country if there wasn't old country.

"I love the real country music. To me, local radio stations aren't good because they don't play the real country music."

She explained that when she goes to hear these musicians play, she goes to hear them sing, not to gain publicity for herself. "I have met Willie Nelson a few times, but I respect his right to privacy. Many people want to go to concerts to meet the singer. I go because I want to hear them sing."

Locke said that it makes her feel good to hear people say what a fine son she has. "People come up to me and tell me that they think it's wonderful that Poodie is helping these young musicians get a start in the business."

These young musicians include Pauline Reese, Kevin Fowler, Pat Green, Cory Morrow, and the band Cross Canadian Rag Weed. "Pauline even wrote a song dedicated to me called Yellow Wine. It's coming out in her new CD. I am really excited to hear it.

"I will be celebrating my 80th birthday this year. I will have my party at the Poodie's bar and, as far as I know, many of the singers will be there to play," she added.