Hello Everyone, and WELCOME to the 75th.  Annual Celebration of Rex Allen Days!

 

Wow, 75 years. Now that is something special isn't it!  What started as a celebration of my Dad's first movie release, thanks to the Willcox Chamber Of Commerce, has become an event known around the world. And yes, people from all over the world and the United States plan their vacations to enjoy the Western Hospitality found in Willcox every year. But it is you the people of Willcox that make that happen and have now for 75 years. 

 

My Dad was so proud to call Willcox his hometown, and talked about the Cowboy and Western Heritage that lives and breathes here in his hometown. He spent his life believing that the people of Willcox are kind, generous and have a rich Cowboy Heritage that should never be forgotten and should be remembered and celebrated.

 

It is you, the Ranchers, Farmers and people of Willcox that make this week special for us all, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart that I am a small part of your lives.

 

I started coming to Rex Allen Days in 1954. It was there in the small theater that I sang for the first time in front of an audience. I grew up there. Learned what community and friendship was all about and carried that respect and love all over the world, entertaining for over 50 years.  At every show I did, no matter where I was in the United States or the world, I always spoke about Willcox and invited everyone there to attend Rex Allen Days.  I’m happy that so many of my fans and followers have made the trip into Willcox to celebrate Rex Allen Days.

 

Over the past 75 years I haven't missed very many, and the ones I missed were due to my service to our country. Willcox is the only place I feel at home. I absolutely LOVE the country and the people of Willcox as much as my Father did when he was alive. I've sung there for children, hospital patients and you the people there for 75 years. And if I get to live another 75 years, I will always come back to say thank you.

 

When I wrote "Arizona", which became the State Song, I wrote the first verse about my home; Willcox. "The Rise of Dos Cabasas and the outlaws I see in my dreams". The first place I ever performed the song was at the High School Auditorium right there in Willcox. That my friends, is a night I'll never forget. There were tears, joy and love not only from the stage, but in the hearts of all in attendance. When I performed on the Great Wall of China and was told I could only sing one song, without hesitation I sang "Arizona." and spoke about Willcox. 

 

I have had a wonderful career, thanks to the support of the people of Willcox and Rex Allen Days. Though I have retired from performing now, I will forever know, and I want you to know, that Willcox is my home. And I am proud to say that I am an Honorary Citizen of Willcox.

 

Rex Allen Days was started to thank my Dad for putting Willcox "On the Map" worldwide and now has grown into a celebration of the spirit that lives and breathes in Willcox. This world needs more places like Willcox. Towns that honor with pride their roots and rich heritage.

 

Thank you all for loving me and my family as much as I love all of you.           

 

 

Rex Allen Jr. 

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