Justin Smith (Facebook)

JACKSON HOLE, WYO – The Wort wasted little time stepping its game at the newly acquired Cowboy Bar. After purchasing the iconic watering hole, Wort ownership promised a commitment to making it a premier music venue. An announcement today made it official: Justin Smith will be booking the Cowboy as well as the Silver Dollar Bar as Silver Dollar Inc.’s primary talent buyer.

Smith is a well-known and respected performing artist in Jackson. In addition to performing, Smith has held various roles in the industry including booking agent, songwriter, producer, band manager, and sound engineer. During his 25 years in Jackson, Smith has founded numerous popular rock and bluegrass bands including One Ton Pig, a stalwart on the Silver Dollar stage.

After hearing the news, Smith commented, “What a dream come true. I am excited to scout the country and our region for talented acts for the Silver Dollar and Cowboy Bar. I look forward to pouring my 24 years of music business experience into the project of evolving and elevating the downtown music scene. Our goal is to create a truly world-class live music experience at both of these iconic and historic venues.”

Jim Waldrop, president of Silver Dollar, Inc. added, “We are thrilled to have Justin lead both the Cowboy Bar and the Silver Dollar Bar into the forefront of the music scene not only in Jackson Hole, but in this region. We believe Justin’s diverse experience and reputation as a musician, agent and promoter will help us guide the way for success in this endeavor, we are excited to have him on the team.”

Smith served as president of JH Music Experience, taught guitar for Central Wyoming College, and was music director for “Cumberland Blues” performed at the JH Center for the Arts.

As for changes? Expect the The Cowboy to search both regionally and nationally for up-and-coming acts as well as nationally renowned artists. The Silver Dollar will diversify its music offerings with its standard bluegrass influence while adding funk, R&B, and jazz into the mix. The goal at both venues is filling the dance floor each and every night.

• Cowboy Bar
• Silver Dollar Bar
• The Wort