Recently country music’s award-winning singer Pam Tillis was an overnight guest at the Crystal Key Inn Bed & Breakfast.

The singer had a performance at the Boone County Fairground’s Event Center in Albion on Tuesday night, Sept. 14. She and her husband Matt and two back up musicians, Megan and Mary Sue, chose to spend the night in Newman Grove’s own B & B.

The concert in Albion was the first stop on this leg of the tour and featured a small, intimate, mostly acoustic set. Ms. Tillis said it felt a little strange not having a big band behind her on stage, but to this listener the sound produced by the three performers was perfect. Ms. Tillis was lead vocalist and accompanied herself with guitar. Megan played fiddle and mandolin; Mary Sue played keyboard, guitar and fiddle. Both Megan and Mary Sue sang back up vocals.

In between songs Ms. Tillis spoke of her lifelong involvement in country music. Her father, Mel Tillis, is a well known and respected star of country music. One of Pam’s brothers, Mel Tillis, Jr., is a country music writer. All three have number one hits to their credits.

Tuesday night’s program included: “Shake the Sugar Tree,” “Mi Vida Loca,” “All the Good Ones are Gone,” “Spilled Perfume,” and “Cleopatra, Queen of Denial.” Also featured were two songs from Pam’s latest CD, “Rhinestoned.” Judging by the applause and the smiles on people’s faces as they were leaving, I’d say a good time was had by all. The group wrapped up the concert by sticking around in the lobby to sell CDs and sign autographs.

The Crystal Key, which reopened its doors on May 1 under new owners Diane and Earl Zeller, has seen a steady flow of guests, but this the first celebrity to grace their doorstep. “They were friendly, downto- earth people, a pleasure to serve,” stated Diane Zeller, Crystal Key co-owner.