The City of Arlington and The University of Texas at Arlington Libraries Special Collections and Archives have teamed up for a nostalgic look back at the iconic Johnnie High Country Music Revue. This trip down memory lane comes courtesy of the Arlington Historical Society, which shined a spotlight on a local entertainment legend and the cultural staple, the Arlington Music Hall. No puffery here, just facts about a place that meant and still means a great deal to the community.
Started back in 1974 in the Grapevine Opry, the celebrated revue, Johnnie High, took Texan country music fans by storm. And let's not kid ourselves, the man had an eye for real estate. Moving from venue to venue, High eventually landed at the old Arlington Theater. After giving the place a makeover, he reintroduced it to the public as the Arlington Music Hall. According to an article on the City of Arlington's website, the first show there brought the house down with an attendance of 1,200 on April 1, 1995.
Johnnie High's reputation for a "good, clean, family-friendly show" didn't come out of thin air. Patrons, loyal as a dog to its owner, were quoted as saying his show could hold its own with bigwigs in Branson or Nashville. The variety was part of the selling point, with a blend of country, bluegrass, and gospel, and performers ranging from seasoned pros to the next hot ticket on the country scene. When Johnnie wasn't introducing acts with that unmistakable charm, he was strumming the guitar himself. Sadly, Johnnie High passed away in 2010, but his legacy at the Arlington Music Hall remains as resolute as the building's foundation.
