Northern California country favorites take over Red Hawk Resort Casino this weekend with free live music, gaming, dining and more
Country music takes center stage at Red Hawk Resort Casino this weekend as two Northern California performers with deep roots in the genre bring back-to-back nights of live entertainment to the Stage Bar.
Chad Bushnell kicks off the weekend Friday night with his blend of cowboy tradition, contemporary country and faith-driven Americana. On Saturday, Krik Basquez takes over the Stage Bar backed by Los Vaqueros, bringing another night of traditional country influences, dance-floor favorites and crowd-friendly energy.
Both performances are free, giving guests another reason to make Red Hawk a weekend destination with live entertainment alongside the resort’s gaming, dining and other attractions.
Chad Bushnell has carved out a name for himself as one of Northern California’s most authentic voices in modern country music. Raised in Red Bluff in a family rooted in both ranching and gospel traditions, Bushnell began singing in church and rodeo arenas before finding his own blend of contemporary country and faith-driven Americana.
That background continues to shape his distinctive sound, a mix of cowboy tradition, Nashville polish and honest storytelling that stays connected to the country lifestyle that surrounded him growing up.
His catalog spans heartfelt originals and high-energy singles, from the breakout collaboration “What They Ain’t Tellin’ Us” featuring Ben Haggard to recent releases including “Whiskey to Work,” “Fallin’ in Love With You” and “The Radio.” His music has earned chart placements in the Christian country genre, and he has received multiple nominations at the Josie Music Awards for Artist, Vocalist and EP of the Year.
On stage, Bushnell is known for engaging performances that blend traditional country values with a modern twist. Whether playing fairs, casinos or intimate clubs, his sincerity and stage presence have helped him connect with audiences throughout Northern California and beyond.
With a growing national profile and deep local roots, Bushnell delivers a show that serves as both a tribute to the genre’s past and a look toward its future.
Bushnell performs Friday from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Stage Bar.
A born performer with deep Northern California musical roots, Krik Basquez grew up in a large family of musicians and proudly says “country music is my jam,” a passion that began when he was just 6 years old after receiving his first guitar from his mother.
That early start launched a musical journey influenced by country legends including Hank Williams Jr., Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard and Jamey Johnson, while also drawing inspiration from modern artists such as Sturgill Simpson and John Mayer.
The result is a style that blends traditional country soul with contemporary influences, creating a sound that resonates with longtime country fans while remaining accessible to newer audiences.
Known throughout the region for passionate live performances, particularly around the South Lake Tahoe area, Basquez has become a familiar name on Northern California’s country music circuit. He frequently collaborates with regional favorites including the Cripple Creek Band, further establishing himself among the musicians carrying Northern California’s country tradition forward.
Whether performing for a honky-tonk crowd or a packed casino dance floor, Basquez delivers authentic country music and crowd-friendly energy that consistently connects with audiences.
Backed by Los Vaqueros, Saturday night’s Stage Bar performance promises a lively mix of country favorites, dance-floor energy and heartfelt musicianship, creating another memorable evening of free live entertainment at Red Hawk.
Basquez and Los Vaqueros perform Saturday from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Stage Bar.
The Stage Bar continues to be one of Red Hawk Resort Casino’s central gathering places for weekend entertainment, offering free live music in the heart of the casino. There is no cover charge for the weekend performances, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beyond the music, guests can make an entire evening or weekend of their visit with Red Hawk’s extensive gaming floor, restaurants, bars and resort amenities.
For those looking to add dinner to the evening, Apex at Red Hawk offers an elevated dining experience overlooking the casino floor. The restaurant features steaks, seafood and other contemporary selections along with cocktails and an extensive wine list, making it an option for dinner before the music begins.
Red Hawk Rewards Club members can also take advantage of the resort’s ongoing promotions, including the $1,000,000 Waves of Cash Giveaway. Drawings are held at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on eligible drawing days, with members able to receive 100 bonus entries each drawing day through the myRedHawk app.
Additional promotions include Tuesday Gas Rewards, allowing Rewards Club members to redeem 500 points for a $10 gas voucher, with up to $30 available each Tuesday. Saturday Gifts are also available for eligible Rewards Club members and can be redeemed at the Rewards Kiosk from 8 a.m. to midnight.
Red Hawk Resort Casino is located at 1 Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville, just off Highway 50. More information about entertainment, dining, gaming, promotions and resort accommodations is available at RedHawkCasino.com.
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