Are there any real honky tonk pianomen left?

Hello there,
I forgot to put in a location! Sadly, I'm living in an area where it's very difficult to find motivated musicians, or ones who can see that there is still opportunity for a good country blues band. The 'older' ones who love and play this music are only doing it occasionally and for fun. With a mixture of country, not excluding the contemporary country, being mature and experienced with audiences works well. But, to find suitable people is almost impossible.
And, yes, the need for the honky tonk pianoman, is uppermost for that great sound. Pedal steel, mandolin also, but they don't seem quite as difficult to get hold of as the pianoman!

SO, here is the location; in between Naperville, Downers Grove, and that part of the West Burbs in Illinois. Even Chicago is not coming up with the goods! It's heart-breaking not being able to get my band together.  I see you are from Las Vegas. I bet there are some good musicians over there!

Thanks for responding BGD!

Would you know if this is s till the case re there being lots of piano players around still. Is it likely there are not nearer to me than South side and NW Indiana? I ask this, as I go on Craigslist to see who's available, and I've also advertised, but there seems no-one from my area. I am not able to drive very far from home either, as I'm not confident (being used to driving in the UK) enough and always get lost! Even with a GPS!

I realise there must be some  good keys men out there, but sadly that doesn't seem to be the case nearer to me. I also a hoping for the near distance so it will be easier for other musicians to come and practise at my place as often as possible. We have drums set up here also.

Hi DuskyDee!!  I used to live in Chicago for 5 years--North Side---Broadway//Clark area... and then lived in Aurora.  I was never a part of the music scene there by any means however, I did go out a lot in the city--and the city had some AWESOME blues and bluesy clubs. I can't remember them but I can ask around (still have friends -- musicians--in that area) and see if they can come up with any ideas//alternatives.

I understand a bit of frustration of trying to find what you want---I have been on the search for a dedicated acoustic accompaniest (with specific details I won't go into here) for a couple of years now... both here in the States and in Germany (less time over there) and it's hard.  But my experience is different than yours. It's not that they aren't around, it's just that they need to take the opportunities they have and so most of them are already "playing out."  I think it's more about timing than anything else--but, that's just my (very) limited experience!  Best Best wishes!

Hi!! Absolutely, I can ask around. I know more luck and who live in the city but I can certainly check. I'll plan on checking out your website in a bit!