Get ready to welcome 2025 in true Fremont style with local legend Kevin Searle, better known as Cowboy. This charismatic musician has been a fixture in the area for 25+ years, and his upcoming New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day performances promise to be a great time. From being born in Manhattan, New York, to having the afternoon spot at The World Famous Tootsies for two years, to leading the Wisconsin-based Buffalo Stomp band, Cowboy’s journey to becoming a Fremont staple is a story worth telling.
A Musical Journey
Kevin “Cowboy” Searle grew up in Manhattan, teaching himself to play guitar while working as a boys group home leader. His musical journey led him to the world-famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in Nashville, where he performed daily 12 PM–6 PM shows. Years later, life brought him to Fremont, Wisconsin. While working as an over-the-road truck driver, Cowboy discovered the charm of Fremont while playing local gigs and decided to call it home for a bit. That was roughly 25 years ago.
“Life brought me here,” Cowboy shares. “I found a place to live and never left.”
Cowboy’s Unique Style
Cowboy describes his performances as “feel-good nostalgic fun” His influences range from country legends to rock icons and everything in between. Add in a story, a shot of tequila, a few WOOO’s, and jokes made to the crowd, and his performances reflect his passion for creating an enjoyable experience for all.
New Year’s Celebrations
This New Year’s Eve, Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos will perform at the Hahn-A-Lula Resort, a special place for him as it was one of the first venues he played in Fremont, thanks to a chance meeting with Brian Hahn while playing in Combined Locks. “Brian told me his folks, Cliff and Judy Hahn, owned the resort and booked bands often. He booked me the gig, and the rest is history, Fremont's never been the same!” Cowboy recalls.
The New Year’s Day Bash at the Hotel Fremont is equally exciting. Cowboy loves the atmosphere: “The hotel clears out the dining room so we can play in a more intimate setting and hang out all day with our friends. Plus, they’ve got a special Chinese food menu!”
Both events will feature a talented lineup of friends, including but not limited to, Rick on keyboard, Wade on drums New Year's Eve and Tony, New Years Day Colorado Mike on guitar, The singing fireman Krause singing, and Rick on trumpet, among many other friends. And of course, there will be plenty of Tequila and Miller 64 to go around!
Fond Fremont Memories
Fremont holds a special place in Cowboy’s heart. “The way the community comes together is truly something special,” says Cowboy. His favorite memories must be all the events he got to play over the years! Memories like Fremont's Festivus, Kick the S*** out of Cancer, The Veterans Backyard Bash, Chicken Barbeque fundraisers, and many more, made it fun to give back when you get to do it with friends! "It has never felt like work to play especially at community events!"
Looking Ahead to 2025
Cowboy is excited about what’s to come in 2025. “I’m looking forward to Fremont’s growth and seeing the Riverwalk help connect the village and turn the town into a true destination for live music” he shares. He’s also planning to record some of his own music this summer with Thompson Hill Co., Michael and Jennifer Twombly’s recording studio.
Mark your calendar for Cowboy’s World’s Largest Birthday Bash at the Bridge Bar on March 29th. “We’re celebrating Steve, myself, and anyone else with a birthday around that time,” he says with a grin. Add in every local musician in the area, it’s sure to be a party, you wont want to miss
Celebrate with Cowboy
Don’t miss out on ringing in 2024 with Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos. Here are the details:
New Year’s Eve Party at Hahn-A-Lula Resort
📍 8861 S Wolf River Rd, Fremont, WI 54940
🗓️ Tuesday, December 31st
🪩 Doors open at 3 PM, live music starts at 5 PM. Champagne toast at 8:30 PM!
New Year’s Day Bash at Hotel Fremont
📍 218 Wolf River Dr, Fremont, WI 54940
🗓️ Wednesday, January 1st
🎶 Live music begins at 2 PM. Enjoy a special Chinese food menu!
Grab your friends, raise a glass, and let’s make some memories with Cowboy this New Year’s! Cheers to great music, good food, and unforgettable times, want to see where else he is playing, look at events on the Fremont Chamber Website and watch our site!
