Get to know a band called Rivertown Gypsies, husband and wife duo, Shane and Lynda Allen. They perform a mix of rock, blues, folk, and rock. See them live at the Irish Pub in downtown Lewisburg, on Sunday, December 9th.

Give us a brief history of the band. How long have you two played together?
Lynda and I have been married for 18 years and we have always played and sang together at home. Even as teenagers when I was learning the guitar, she would sing along with me. She’s always had a bit of stage fright, so It was only about 6 months ago when I was finally able to convince her to join me on stage and we officially started Rivertown Gypsies.

There are many different descriptions of your band’s style.. How would you describe your sound?
Technically, we are an acoustic vocal duo, but this question is always hard to answer because we are very influenced by all different kinds of music. It’s always been important to us to do songs that we enjoy, and that people may not necessarily expect. We do everything from Simon and Garfunkel to Led Zeppelin to original material. We have always felt if music is good and you do it from your heart people will enjoy it.

We love when husband and wife can work together to do some amazing things. How can you describe the experience?
It just seems very natural to me (Shane). Lynda is my best friend and my biggest supporter. I have so much fun performing with her and because of our relationship I think we have a natural chemistry that translates well on stage.”

Do you have musical backgrounds?
Shane writes, “My grandmother played guitar and piano, and she and my mother were always listening to all different kinds of music. So, I was exposed to that from a very early age. I was in marching band all through school and I started learning guitar when I was a teenager. I’ve played in several different bands over the years and with many different people, and music has always been an important part of my life.”

Lynda adds, “I’ve always loved to sing. I used to have a stack of 45 records when I was a little girl and I would sit for hours playing those and singing along. I was in choir and band during school. Music has always been central for Shane and I, so he has taught me alot.”

Can LBSPY readers find you online?
Yes, absolutely! Find us at: facebook.com/RivertownGypsies and reverbnation.com/rivertowngypsies

If you’re interested in booking this band, contact them at: rivertowngypsies@gmail.com

– LBSPY Interview #21 (Dec 3-17)