Local musician succumbs to COVID-19

Local music lovers are mourning the death of Crooked Halo bassist Kenny Attaway. He died August 27 in a Texarkana hospital after being hospitalized the previous week for COVID-19. It was noted that he was also a diabetic.

The 62-year old musician, along with Texarkana native Steve Briggs, founded the band in 2002 and has been appearing at clubs in the Ark-La-Tex and surrounding areas since.

In 2016 the band lineup changed to include James Williams on drums and Chris Montano as lead singer.

“This is, by far, the most talented and successful mix we’ve ever had,” said Steve in a 2018 interview. Kenny added, “This is definitely the most enjoyable, talented group to work with – there is no weak link here.”

The Fouke native, who started playing bass over 40 years ago, lived in Chicago for 30 years. During the 1970’s and 80’s he played with bands such as Survivor, Pat Travers’ Band, and Badfinger; he even toured with Cheap Trick and recorded an album with the band Rocker in 1987.

Since moving back home he worked at the phone company and spent most weekends playing gigs with the band.

The group lost their soundman, Roger Adcock, in early 2018 after he sustained major injuries in a motorcycle accident that lead to his death.

Greg Hagood, a local musician and longtime friend of Kenny’s, has been doing the sound for them since.

Attaway was born in El Dorado, Arkansas and lived in Fouke with his wife, Margaret. He was a father and grandfather.

A public memorial is being planned by his family to be held at a local entertainment venue. Watch the Cass County Citizens Journal-Sun Facebook page for more information.