Junior Madie Deutmeyer recently took the stage with Dairy Larry and Da Udders, a one-man band led by Larry Tranel.
Deutmeyer first caught Tranel’s attention while presenting her “Share the Fun” act at the State Fair.
Tranel, passionate about engaging 4-H members in agricultural events, saw potential in Deutmeyer’s talent.
“Larry saw me dancing at a ‘Share the Fun’ event and initially wanted me to dance for his band, but then I told him I play the drums,” Deutmeyer said. “He asked, ‘Would you be my udder?’”
“I felt more comfortable playing the drums in the band,” Deutmeyer said. “I felt like I wouldn’t contribute much by dancing.”
Rehearsals took place in Tranel’s barn, which had a sound system and cozy furnishings. “Practice was a lot of fun,” Deutmeyer said. “The barn had a home-like feel with couches and a great setup for music.”
Their first major event was at the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) conference at Jack Trice Stadium. “We met a lot of ag-related people at the conference,” Deutmeyer said.
The band played a mix of country and rock at performances, with “Ring of Fire” being a crowd favorite. “It got the audience hyped,” Deutmeyer said.
Although earning money wasn’t Deutmeyer’s goal, donations came her way.
“Larry placed a cow-shaped donation box next to me, and I made $400,” she said. “The box was originally near him, but he didn’t collect any money.”
Beyond performing, Deutmeyer has built valuable connections.
“Playing in the band has opened up opportunities for me,” she said. “I now have contacts in the ag industry, which I can use later.”
