Puckett Brings Nostalgic Show To Pullman

It’s been 26 years since Gary Puckett scored his last U.S. hit with the tune “This Girl is a Woman Now.”

But the singer, known for his six Top 10 hits with the Union Gap from 1967-1969, still maintains a thriving career.

He’ll bring a nostalgia-heavy show with his four-piece band to the Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum at Washington State University on Sunday.

“We’re busy and thankful to be working,” Puckett said from his home in San Diego this week. “They (the concerts) have been doing real well. We’ve been averaging about 5,000 people per show. Which is pretty good.”

At the show in Pullman, Puckett will perform his mega-hits: “Woman, Woman,” “Young Girl,” “Lady Willpower,” “Over You” and others. Plus, he’ll play renditions of contemporary hits, from country music to Michael Bolton.

“We have a very eclectic show. And it’s a lot of fun to do anything from R&B from the ‘60s to country tunes of the ‘90s,” said Puckett, who grew up in the Yakima Valley. “Of course, the focus is (with the hits).

“I don’t like to be thought of as a ‘60s guy only. It’s a tough thing because I have been pigeonholed into that. People know me for 1968 and 1969. Certainly those hardcore kind of fans are unwilling to let me step out of that.”

Yet Puckett isn’t bitter and he enjoys playing the classics.

Aside from steady touring, the singer has been working on a new project with former Union Gap bass player Kerry Chater, who is now an accomplished songwriter in Nashville. Puckett, a born-again Christian, says the project will marry a Christian message with country and pop.

Also on Sunday’s bill are ‘60s psychedelic progressive rock group Spirit, featuring guitarist Randy California, and the Grass Roots, which sparked 14 Top 40 hits in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s.

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MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: CONCERT Gary Puckett, Spirit and the Grass Roots will perform Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at the Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum in Pullman. General-admission tickets are $15, available at all regional G&B Select-A-Seat outlets or by calling 325-SEAT.