The Big Joe Polka Show

I like to think of The Big Joe Polka Show as polka’s answer to American Bandstand. Just replace the TV studio with a large plywood dance floor in an Elk’s Lodge, the awkward teens with polka dancing seniors, and Dick Clark with the charming “Big Joe” Siedlik and his loud, accordion-patterned vests.

For more than 25 years, Big Joe was a polka radio king, spinning a popular mix of Polish, Czech and German polka records for listeners in the Midwest. After retiring from radio, he moved to television and now showcases live polka bands and dancers on his program which airs nationwide on RFD-TV, “Rural America’s Most Important Network.”

Later this month, Big Joe will film a series of shows at the RFD-TV Theater in Branson, Missouri. It’s a big deal for the bands chosen to perform and they’re coming from all over the country — the Polka Chips from Alaska, Smilin’ Scandinavians from Washington, Phocus from Buffalo, and many more.

One of polka’s biggest promoters, Big Joe likes to say that “polka tots make polka teens, and polka teens make adult human beings.” This clip is proof of that, as Big Joe welcomes (and teases) the younger members of Colorado’s Polka Nuts:

175 Comments:

  1. THIS IS A VERY GOOD BAND, HOPE WE GET TO SEE THEM IN PERSON VERY SOON. WE LOVE THE BIG JOE SHOW. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.

  2. WE LOVE THE POLKA NUTS HOPE WE CAN GET TO
    SEE THEM IN PERSON SOMEDAY. WE LOVE THE BIG JOE SHOW VERY MUCH.
    TAKE CARE ,
    ELLA

  3. This is classic – thanks!

  4. I love the Big Joe Polka Show watch it as often as possible. My birthday is June 2, l927. I have reserved tickets to attend the show on June 2nd which is about two weeks off. I’m very excited about coming to Branson for the show.

    May 17 Pearl McArthur

  5. That’s fantastic, Pearl! Have fun at the show!

  6. Hi from NY. I just love Big Joe’s Polka show, play an accordian too !!
    I think the accordian player from Rhythm Playboy’s is awesome, energetic, and GORGEOUS !!!
    I’d love to meet him someday !
    Keep up the good work !

  7. Thanks Kathy! I’ve never seen the Rhythm Playboys, but I’ll have to keep an eye out for their “gorgeous” accordion player.

  8. Love Big Joe Polka show,but after a year Dish Network took it off of our sattelite,which is what most of rural Alaska watches.I,m an old accordian player in Alaska,started playing in the bars here when I was 16.So glad it is still popular today.

    Dean

  9. My wife and I watch Big Joe’s Polka Show for laughs. Probably some of the worst musicians and bands are on this show. I have been a polka musician for 60 years, still playing, and I would be ashamed to work with most of the “bands” Keep up the good work, I need a laugh.

  10. Big Joe’s polka show set polka music back 40 years.No wonder many people,especially the younger, generation, those under about 40, laugh at polka music.

  11. Please bring back the Polka Nuts. I miss not hearing from them in a long time. The Big Polka Show is great!

    Keep up the good work!

  12. jeannie is great at interviewing, she is startiing to learn how to hold the mic right,,,I like joes hair in this clip..one of the dancers on the shows looks just like captain kangaroo! JOE ROCKS and I am a urban resident!

  13. I love the Dutch Hop music very much and this is a good band to listen to for that kind of music. I have watched this band perform in northern Colorado several times, and they gave a good performance each time I watched.

  14. where are god bless america usa
    america beautiful

  15. What about Polka Paul?

  16. Are you talking about Paul Belanger from Rhode Island? I’ve heard of his radio show — does he have a TV show, too?

  17. The Polka Nuts are always a welcome ans enjoyable part of the Big Joe polks Show

  18. hi the polkanuts are a great band we lover them we watch BIG JOES POLKA whenever its on its wonderful

  19. I know Polka Paul from Nebraska, and he says Big Joe does more for Polka music than anyone….Polka Paul looks like Captain Kangaroo. Jeannie rocks….she is the future of the industry….Thanks big joe,,you and the nuts rock…

  20. Kevin is such a cutie, he reminds me of my grandson, Milawsz, I even cut his hair in haircut like that. I am Big Joe Show fan. We are watch Polka nuts many time. I am go to Big Joe Show one day. I am 74 years old and I like the beginning of big joe show where Polka Paul says ‘Big Joe does more for Polka than anyone else’. I am thank you.

  21. Below is an email I just sent off to the Polka Nuts and a cc to the president of RFD:

    Dear Polka Nuts,

    Thanks to RFD and Big Joe, I recently “discovered” your band and I just ordered your two DVDs. I wanted to let you know that your music is wonderful!! The sound is so rich and the dulcimer has a wonderful sound–a marvelous addition in Polka music.

    Listening to your music and watching the dancers on Polka Joe’s show remind me so much of when I was a kid growing up in Roseland on the South Side of Chicago back in the 1950’s and my church would hold a big social. The Polka music would be playing, the adults would be dancing, and I could run around the church basement without getting yelled at–those were good times.

    Keep up the good work and let me know when your next DVD is released.

    Many thanks,
    Pete Bausys (RoselandPete)

  22. Please patron them directly. Big Mike will share the 411 on what he can.

    Not everything seems as it appears!

    The Truth Seeker

  23. Of all the polka bands on Big Joe, yours is our favorite. I would like to purchase one of your DVDs. Where can I order it? Norm & Sadie Bicknell

  24. my parents watch your progam wed. and sat.
    nights. yes, we often dance in the kitchen.
    they love all of your bands but their favorite is
    the Polka Nuts. It’s their 60th wedding anniv.
    this coming April- it would be great to see you at a
    Polka show.

    thank you for giving us so much happiness.

  25. Sadie: you can find the Polka Nuts (and other Big Joe Polka Show) DVDs at polkacatalog.com.

  26. My husband and I love Big Joe’s Polka Show on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. When Lawrence was in the hospital this last weeks, I bragged that I got to see Big Joe. Being originally from Wisconsin, its a pleasure to watch, because the South has no idea what Polka Music is all about. Sure would like to see Brian Brueggen on his show, and Larry Olsen.
    Thank you
    Janet Holmes
    839 Lake June Road
    Lake Placid, Florida 33852-8925

  27. I would rather see two real “professional” bands on the show than five or six fair to lousy. There’s more to polka than Czech, German and Polish. I have been in and around it since I was old enough to walk.

  28. Get on board the big joe polka train! big joe IS polka! And he has alot of fans as you can see in the intros to the show. Like Polka Guy from Nebraska says in the intro “Big Joe Siedlik does more for Polka music than anyone”. He is right! Who else in this wonderful country has such love for the music and has it on such a great channel like RFD. Keep it up Big Joe—YOU ARE A POLKA LEGEND! See you at your next Minnesota gig!

  29. We really enjoy all the polka music on Big Joe’s

    shows. Is there a schedule as where the dances

    are held and when?

  30. Jean, check Big Joe’s website; it looks like there’s a taping coming up in Texas next month.

  31. Joe
    Let me know what I have to do to get on one of your RFD filming shows.

  32. If you like polka music watch the Jimmy Sturr show on RFD-TV every Friday at 5:00PM. The show repeated on the following Sunday morning.

  33. I lived in brighton, Colo for a long time and could throw a stone at the county court house. I lived there untill 1992 and moved to MO. I love the Polka nuts. they are fantistic. Lin

  34. We would like to hear more tapes of the Polka Nuts

  35. Would like to see the Polka Nuts on your TV show again. Is the band still together? I’d like to see new shows of them.

  36. I love the Polkas that you play on the t.v, I move the table and dance up a storm. Just like Big Joe says, I ‘kick up a rug’. I will be on your show one day, because I am learning to dance even better. Does Janie have a boyfriend?…Thank you, Eugene

  37. We love Big Joe Polka. We wish it came on earlier in the evening during the week. It used to be on at noon and that was a good time. I think that for the older people 4AM is kind of a bad time. We know a lot of people like the horse shows but we feel it is over done. You should cater to more people than just the horse people. What dates are you taping Big Joe in July of 2008 and where.

    Thanks,
    Virginia Lumbrezer

    P.S.: Our 3 year old granddaughter Madison loves Big Joe Polka. We would like to bring her to one of the tapings this summer.

  38. Joe: Where are other tapeings going to be this year, other than Texas? We were planning to go to Minn. or Branson, but can’t find any information on dates at those locations.

  39. Sammy, there will be another taping July 24-27 at the Medina Ballroom in Medina, MN. Keep checking Joe’s site (polkacatalog.com) for updated info.

  40. Just a question. Of all the shows I have watched I have yet to see audience or band member play a STUMPF FIDDLE. My uncle who has not pasted had several. Would love to see one played again, as the whereabouts of those STUMPF FIDDLES are a mystery.

  41. Just to pass on some sad news,
    Ralph E. Herman, long-time frontman for the Rhythm Playboys, passed away unexpectedly at his home in rural Osseo on Monday, Feb. 25, 2008. His charismatic stage presence and unique style delighted audiences throughout the country for over 50 years. Ralph was the accordian player and vocalist. Copy and paste the following link for more info:

    http://www.leadertelegram.com/obituary.asp?id=BFT9J6J4ATT

  42. I would like a dvd of some of the shows that are on The Big Joe Polka Show. Do you offer them. My father loves polkas and he doesn’t have cable or dish to get your show. Any help would be appreciated.

    Thanks, Doug

  43. Is RFD TV still carrying BIG JOE??

    If not what happened???? Big Joe is great. Does anyone know why RFD is not broadcasting Big Joe? I hope his health is OK. If anyone knpws anything please let me know.

    thanks

  44. What happened to Big Joe? We watch him on Wed and Sat and has missed his show. been replaced by some old polka shows, when will he be back? Polka Vic from Monmouth Oregon 97361 Phone 503-838-1009

  45. I heard there’s a contract dispute between Big Joe and RFD-TV, which is why he isn’t currently on the air. Hopefully it’ll be settled soon — check Big Joe’s site for updates.

  46. Doug: You can order Big Joe Polka Show DVDs through Big Joe’s website at polkacatalog.com.

  47. Hey Big Joe I just wanted to say that watching your show is the highlight of my week. I only wish that I could be there live swinging and kicking my heels while listening to that sweet Polka beat.

  48. Big Joe, I can’t remember a program I’ve enjoyed more than Big Joe Polka. When the clock strikes ten in my home in Louisa, Kentucky, everyone knows to step out of my way and make sure my recliner is empty because that’s where I settle in for an evening of quality entertainment! I’ve been known to spring to my feet and dance a jig across the floor myself, just wishing I were live on Big Joe’s! Someday!

  49. I love your show, but I have a question, I have a very old vinage Wurlitzer Accordion, would love to sell it but I can not find anyone here in Vegas that is interested. If you know some one that would love a beautiful piece please contact me.

    Thank Very much,
    A true fan
    Robert Sacco
    702-882-2087

  50. I would like the schedule for Big Joe’s polka party at Medina, Minn in July

  51. Eugene, check our calendar listing.

  52. Wil Big Joe ever come to Chicago? There is a Huge Polka loving contingent here and Polka Joe could pull all of em’ out of the woodwork. Let me start the chat…’We want joe’, ‘we want joe’, ‘we want joe’!!!!! Any Chance?…..ps: there are alot of hotels here for the fans to stay at.

  53. Hey Joe! When can we get to see the Polka nuts on your show again?? What a great group of performers! Kevin is FANTASTIC on the dulcimer. Would sure like to see them play more than one song when & if they ever get on again. Love your show especially the Slovenian stle like Virgil Baker.&&&& the Alaska Polka Chips.Marge & her group hold a big place in my heart. Keep up the good work!!

  54. I was trying to see if there was a change in band schedule for Medina Fest. but can’t find anything out. Do try and get the Polka nuts back for some taping. They were great back then. Do they still play or not. Just wondering.

  55. Phyllis, check Big Joe’s site for the latest information.

  56. On Aug 23 from 10 t0 11, I watched your show. You had a band called Buttons and banjo from Madison Wis. I would like a cd from them. Is there any way you can put me in touch with them. Either by e-mail or phone. Thank you, Jakob Unger Sr.
    1416 Laconia St.
    Sebastian, Fl. 32958
    772-589-6152

  57. I’m a Polka Dee-Jay at Vassar College, WVKR, 91.3 FM (on the web @ http://www.wvkr.org) for the past 20 years. I enjoyed your music and would like to obtain a CD from you so that I can feature it on my show on Saturdays, 9-11 am. Could you get back to me so any information.

    Mike Skok

  58. love to see the band play. Bring the “nuts” to Wisconsin.

  59. I know the Country Polkateers from Pierz – when are they going to be on again. I just saw them up in Silver Bay, MN at a 60th anniversary party. They are a great band!

  60. GREAT SHOW – LOVE TO SEE POLKA NUTS NOW THANKS RAYMOND

  61. We learned about Big Polka Joe’s show when we started tuning in to RFD TV through our Dish satellite subscription. We love the show and told other family members about the show. In fact, the show broadcast Saturday night on 12-20-08 became the highlight of entertainment when our family got together for both Christmas and a college graduation party for our daughter.

    Simon & Cindy Castillo
    San Antonio, Texas

  62. I love your show and tell Everyone that will listen to me about it. Would like to see the Polka Nuts back again. Nice to See Chad from Pulaski on your show.

    Jane Sperberg

  63. are dvd’s available of when you were in medina,mn.

  64. I was wondering what happened to the Texas Polka and Waltz music from Round Top. We havent yet heard the last ones. Mark Halata, Jimmy Broach, The Czechaholics, and Leroy and the Swingmasters., and many more. What happened to them We sure sould like to hear them play also. I do like who you have but the others were great also. Thanks Pauline Sturm Victoria, Texas

  65. Without a doubt the biggest collection of the worst music ever put on television !
    At least Jimmy Sturr’s band can tell one note from another, but not so with Big Joe, oh no.
    Happy music for tone-deaf people.

  66. I enjoy the interview segments with Joes daughter Jane. I would like to buy the dvds for my granddaughter who wants to get in the tv business, but the commercials go by too fast when i try to write down the number to call. Also, what is the schdule for Big Joes live shows this year. I want to plan a vacation around one or two of them and would like advanced notice for I can bring a friend or two. My friends Ellen and Clyde love the show too.
    Thank You kindly,
    Stewart S.
    Crystal Falls, Mich

  67. I live in Shawnee, ok. and my sister-in -law lives in omaha, neb. and says she don’t get rfd channel and has cable. I don’t underdtand????? I didn’t know what polka music was till i met my wife 58 years ago in Prague, okla. and i can;’t do with out the BIG JOE POLKA SHOW . While it is showing i just can’t keep my feet still so please keep up the good work. Thanks for the good and wonderful show. Jim Wright and Margaret Dostal Wright—The Dostal clan were orignally were from nebraska.

  68. To Whom It May Concern’

    Re: Big Joe Polka on RFD-TV

    Are you watching the polka shows yourself what you are giving us to watch?

    We have been avid listeners to Big Joe Polka Show for several years and look forward to Saturday Night and the Big Joe Polka Show. Of course there are better shows and others; however, we accept what was given to us, knowing that it’s temporary. We have recommended this show to many friends and always emphasize to keep watching because there are good band and singers and there then are the best bands and singers.

    The last few weeks, the televised shows are OLD, poor quality of recording, and the singing and music is also outdated. The wearing attire, including the eye glasses that the people wear signifies how old the show really is. If we have to listen to repeats, why not have the repeats of current years. It’s disappointing with today’s technology and know that the Polka Show has many, many excellent current shows and yet we are given this quality and old shows to watch.

    We love the Polka Show, however, not these old, old ones. Recently, we are really disappointed. Thank you for your consideration.

  69. Love you Big Joe

  70. I heard a man playing a guitar and singing the “Alaska Waltz” with his band about a year ago.I think his name was Sam Welling or something like that. Could you get him back on again. I really enjoyed it. I enjoy your show Big Joe
    Thanks –Homer Hess

    E-Mail hm14884@yahoo.com

  71. WE WATCH BIG JOE ON SAT NITE, ARE THESE SHOWS THAT HAVE AIRED IN MARCH AND APRIL REALLY OLD? IF SO GO BACK TO THE OTHER ONES, WE DON’T LIKE THEM, WE LIKE THE ONES WHERE THEY DANCE DIFFERENT PLACES, SOME OF THE SAME DANCERS ARE ON, THE ONES YOUR SHOWING ARE AWFUL, DID SOMETHING HAPPEN TO BIG JOE?

  72. DID SOMETHING HAPPEN TO BIG JOE? THESE LAST FEW SHOWS ARE AWFUL, THE FLOORS ARE TERRIBLE, AND IT’S JUST NOT THE SAME, WE LIKE TO WATCH SOME OF THE SAME DANCERS, AND THE BRANSON SHOWS, WHAT IN THE WORLD HAPPENED?????

  73. When are you going to have some more Polka Shows that you can go and see? I know Virgil Baker is in Rockford, MI. Is there any way to get a hold of this group and find out where we can see them? We are from Michigan and would like to see them in person.
    Thank you.
    Judy Sayler

  74. We are confused. We watch Big Joe every Saturday night on DISH and see segments of the show that are very old. How much of each show is “today” and how much is 20 years old? We love the show and love the music, but feel we are in some sort of a time warp.

  75. I would like to see more of the dancers instead of the band and not a close up of a instrument thank you

  76. GOING TO A CONVENTION IN THE BUFFALO
    NEW YORK AREA THE WEEK OF 23 SEPT 2009
    AND WONDERING IF THERE IS A NIGHT OF
    POLKA MUSIC IN THE AREA THAT WEEK….THE POLKA FESTIVAL IN THAT AREA IS TWO WEEKS LATER AND I REGRET THAT I WON’T BE ABLE BE THERE.

  77. Jim, take a look at our accordion events calendar. You can do a search for events around Buffalo, NY — click here to see more.

  78. We Love to watch the dancers. S0 PLEASE keep the camera on the dancers more than the Band. Keep up the good show. Del.

  79. My eighteen year old handicapped son Micheal loves Big Joe’s voice and the polka music. Grandpa got us watching the show and Micheal loves it. We watch Wed. and Sat. and ordered the cd and dvd’s.
    Kim and Micheal Gustin, Minnesota

  80. Brought my mom to the Buffalo convention which we enjoyed. Does anyone know when those will be on tv?

  81. Earlier today I heard some disturbing news with regards to the Big Joe Polka Show.

    The info is on a Google.com Blog at:

    http://groups.google.com/group/alt.music.polkas/browse_thread/thread/951551263a41b014#

    To Summarize: Contract negotiations between Big Joe and RFD-TV have hit a roadblock, and in order to pressure Joe to sign an unfavorable contract, they have pulled all of the “Polka Nuts” and “Polka Catalog” advertising which generated the revenue for new show creation, editing and distribution. The Big Joe Polka Show will be going off of the air at December’s end, unless some positive development occurs between now and then.

  82. bring on the polka nuts they are the best

    thank you

    bud guse

  83. i want to thank big joe for having my band play for the video taping of his show in buffalo ny. on sunday oct.4,2009. thank you joe, bob uleck polka relations polka band. we’ll be watching.

  84. I live among the “Polka Proud”" in western Pennsylvania, where we all watch the Big Joe Show, and was dismayed to hear (from a credible source at our local cable provider) that negotiations have hit a snag with RFD-TV, and that the Big Joe Polka Show will no longer be on RFD-TV as of New Years Day, 2010. I’ve noticed that only older shows are being shown (maybe old stock that RFD-TV had on file?). My cable provider told me that since RFD is on his higher priced digital tier, that he has been threatened by customers that they’ll pull their digital package if Big Joe goes off of the air. Let’s all pray this doesn’t happen, as TV is bad enough without losing a treasure like the Big Joe Show!

  85. I would like to know when are you going to brocast the more recent programs ? We are tired of seeing the same ones over and over.
    You need to show the more recent programs.
    Your viewers are losing interest.

  86. To: Yvonne Jakel

    The Big Joe Show is apparently in the process of contract negotiations by RFD-TV, and probable discontinuation. For more accurate info, and a denial on the part of RFD-TV, please visit this thread at alt.music.polkas on Google:

    http://groups.google.com/group/alt.music.polkas/browse_thread/thread/e6beec3f33bc794f

  87. Big Joe, You used to have a real good TV show when it was in Medina — good midwestern bands in a homey atmosphere, even with Abe Lincoln dancing, and Janie featuring fun to watch couples kicking up their heels. Then you went to Texas, and the 6 guitars and a washtub bass just gave polka music a bad reputation. Some country and western clutzs singing Beer Barrel Polka just doesn’t get it. Then it was Aksarben? with time warp reruns — shaky accordions and rhinestone blazers (send them back to Jersey). I would watch your show again if you went back to “Medina” (a spanish surname pronounced MEH-DEENA) and the programming you had there. In the meantime, I’ll get my polka music from CD’s. Yea for Rod’s Music.

  88. Please!! let the camera men pay more attention to the dancers. Do you realize that 90per-cent of the video is on the band. And when on the dancers, it’s only for two or three seconds. Try zooming in on some of the really good dancers and stay on them for at least 10 seconds or more, and show their feet, it’s no fun watching the top of their heads.

  89. One more thing, I watch Big Joe’s Polka show almost every week, and I keep asking myself why. But then I answer myself, because just watching some of the really good dancers, even for just those few seconds, makes it worthwhile. A year of so ago, the camera men did stay with the dancers more than they do lately. Why is that? Camera man is a technical job. Do they really suck at it or is some director calling the shots?

  90. the sat. nite polka show is so outdated that it should be replaced with recordings from the last 5 years at Medina Minn. with more emphasis on the dancers ,not as much on the bands.Who cares to see the opening of a horn ? I would like to see more of the Rhythm Play Boys from Osseo wis. also Leon Olson from New Ulm Minn. on the Big Joe Show. Sincerly James Goplin Osseo Wis.

  91. Please show more of the dancers . Sure love to watch the dancers.

  92. I really loved your show when it was from mehdina mn but since that all changed I really am very disapp ointed in the show. who needs to watch what you did 20 yrs. ago. please bring back janie and some of the shows within the last , maybe 5 yrs.? thanks joe or are,nt you in control any more since RFD TV is getting so huge.

  93. When will the Mike Chelewski Band be on Big Joe’s Polka? Is there some place to find a schedule of who is on?

  94. Still watching, though I don’t know why. I get tired of looking at the bands. I realize they need the exposure, but why give them 90% of camera time? Lets see more of those dancing feet.

  95. Ok, what ever happend to Kevin the dulcimer player from the early Polka Nuts videos? He appears to be have been quietly replaced by a nephew sometime in the mid 90s. Was Kevin a relation to Mike and the girls? What happend? Where is he now? Was there some sort of bizarre dulcimer accident where he was injured? There seems to be no record of his existence after the Big Joe Show appearance.

  96. I am of croatian blood and enjoy a good polka. It would be nice to see more of this type of music,i.e.,Don Lipovac, etc. I am also interested in whatever happened to Mark/Deana Vyhlidal records, of past. I hope someone can answer these questions.

  97. Since some of their shows are twenty, or so, years old, I am hoping to buy some older records if they are available. I am of croation descent, as stated earlier, and would love to find some old records, or tapes with this type of music.

  98. We personally enjoy the older 1980’s Big Joe Polka Shows. We look for the regular dancers. Does anyone know who these dancers are? Big-haired Lady, Headband Dude (Bob), King and Queen, the Count, Captain Kangaroo (Polka Paul). We have about a dozen regulars we look for. I know, we need a life.

  99. Love those polka nuts. I was raised with the dutch hop music. I am of volga german descent and enjoy all their music. I believe that this band and myself are related to someone in Brighton, Colorado. Please polka nuts come to the Omaha or Lincoln region and perform your music and I’ll be there to enjoy.

  100. I too am of vulgar german descent and love das polka nuts. I still am waiting for the nuts to play the tuckahoe area. I believe we are all related to one polka nut or another. we in the community still we remain concerned over young kevin the dulcimer wiz.

  101. Had a wonderful time in Buffalo with a friend of mine that came all the way from Culver City, CA. I’m from Dutchess County, NY. We drove up together and had one of the best times of our lives . Please keep on the shows for us to enjoy our memories.

  102. Watching the Big Joe Polka show is the high point of my 93 year old mother’s life. We get it on Dish in Watertown Wisconsin. However, the shows that show the bands all the time instead of the dancers are BORING. Why is your cameraman doing this? This Saturday night was particularly disappointing.

  103. My husband and I have been watching the Big Joe Polka Show on Wednesday night and on Saturday night since we went up to Medina in 2005. However, we too are anxious to see the new polka shows from New York and Wahoo, Nebraska, that was in 2009.
    Joyce Riedel

  104. Absolutely the worst job of camera work I’ve ever seen. Hey Big Joe, why don’t you send your camera men to cameraman school?
    Don’t you read these blogs? If you do, you must know that your viewers all feel the same as I. We want to see more of the dancers, their feet, not the top of their heads
    I am watching the show right now as I type 1/30/10 and it looks like there is more play on the dancers, but still the camera work leaves a lot to be desired. Pick out a couple that are really good dancers and keep the camera on them for at least 10 seconds. Is that too much to ask?

  105. When were the shows that are airing now on RFD-TV taped?

  106. What a nice relief from the usual crap on TV
    .Real people enjoying themselves !!!

  107. Nice show !!!

  108. WHAT IN THE WORLD HAPPENED TO THE SHOW? ALL THE SHOWS WE GET ARE ALL OUTDATED.SOME-ONE AT RFD-TV NEEDS TO GET THEIR ACT TOGETHER IF THE ARE THE PROBLEM .KNOCK OFF ON SOME OF THE HORSE SHOWS. YOU CAN ONLY LOOK A SO MANY HORSES BEHINDS AND SOON THE ALL START TO LOOK THE SAME. MAYBE THE GUYS AT RFD-TV ARE STARTING TO LOOK LIKE HORSE REARS ALSO.

  109. No one, and I mean no one, not man women or child, nor man nor beast, anyone, nobody, has ever, never, not in a million years, for enternity, never ever, ever, ever, never, done more, not less, but more, much more, oh, so much more, lots more, tons more, just plain more, for polka music, than the man himself, thats right, I am talking about the big pappa with the big moppa, yes, Big Joe himself ladies and gents.

    Perhaps he could help us find Kevin from the Polka Nuts.

  110. Does COX Cable carry RFD in Scottsdale, AZ?

    I am from Wisconsin and watch Big Joe every

    Wed & Saturday and really enjoy it. I have

    Cox cable in AZ.

  111. Now that’s more like it Big Joe. At last we get to see more of the bands in action. We like to see the cameraman zoom in on the sliding trombone. We like to see the view over the shoulder of the drummer and see how he hits those symbols. Yes we’re glad you don’t show the folks dancing and having fun. Oh,and, I almost forgot, lets see more shots of the flowers around the bandstand.

  112. We were in Buffalo,New York on Oct. 2,2009
    We had a wonderfull time, the music was just wonderfull and had a great time. The Bands were also great.
    When will the Buffalo taping be shown on TV.
    Thanks so much for all the wonderful music.

  113. HI BIG JOE AND CO., We enjoy your shows very much, and we were wondering if you can do a taping in Michigan (preferably) in Detroit area. There is such a huge Polish population in the area,and it would bring some excitement here.Keep up the good work!

  114. why are we getting so many reruns of very old shows?kinda hoping to see some updated players.

  115. TO POLKA NUTS FANS, After seeing all the enquiries regarding Kevin from the Polka Nuts, I wrote to them to find out any news, and here is what I found out………..Kevin is alive and well. The taping on Big Joe was made in 1989, and Kevin was replaced in 1991(did not give reason why), and they never plan on returning to Big Joe Show.

  116. Watch your shows on RFDTV
    form here in Dedham Ma.

    Enjoy them– Enjoy the variety of Bands

  117. Watch your shows on RFDTV
    from here in Dedham Ma.

    Enjoy them– like the variety of Bands

  118. We love to wastch the Big Joe Polka Show. But how many nights is it on ans what are the times. We watch on Wed night and Sat night. Do you know about the Danny Jerabek Band from Oshkosh W? He is great.

  119. thank you joe. i grew up in a polish neberhood in buffalo ny. we danced and enjoyed polka music so much in the 50s & 60ts it had a great effect on my life.thank you for keeping it real.you are someone who remembers the good old days and makes a genuine effort that they not be forgotten thank you keith PS never miss your show

  120. My wife and I love the Big Joe Show. We recently retired to an area that gets RFD-TV. We didn’t know what we were missing all those years! We hope to see some newer shows.

  121. I enjoy the Big Joe Polka show very
    much. I’m still waiting to hear Barefoot Becky and the Ivanhoe Dutchman, from Mt. Vernon , Iowa.
    She sings very good and has a real good band.
    Peg Zach from Swisher, Iowa

  122. Enjoy watching you shows, but wish you’d show more recent tapings instead of such old ones

  123. I would like to see some newer recordings, especially at Medina Minn. And of the Rythem Play Boys of Osseo Wi. They are TOPS!!!! also i would like to see Leon Olson of New Ulm Minn. there are a lot of other bands in the minn. & Wis.areas that wouldbe nice to heare & see on the show too. LET`S UPDATE the show!!!!

  124. I really enjoy the polka music on RFD. I would like to see more of your recent recordings from Medina and Branson. I would like to see more of the Minnesota and Wisconsin bands along with Becky from Iowa and Julie and the White Rose Band from North Dakota.

    Thanks for promoting polka music Joe..

    Jerry Schmidt
    April 8,2010

  125. I would really like to see some recent taping on Saturday nights. I love polka music

  126. I enjoyed reading some of the comments from above. We really do look forward to the Polka Joe show. We have finally received on Time warner Cable within the last few months. I agree with some of the comments why do the cameramen photo the inside of a horn. We all know what a horn looks like. I am sure all of us want to see the dancers and focus a little more time on the better dancers so possibly some of us could learn the turns, whirls, steps from watching. We really do enjoy the Polka Show on the RFD-TV network and hope and pray it will continue. I would like to know when and where some of the tapings are taking place and I am sure I could name a few bands from our area right here in Wisconsin whom possibly could attend a taping or two. Looking forward to the next 10 years of the Polka Show on RFD as is advertised on the shows. Thanks again. WE LOVE IT.

  127. Why, Why are you still showing the Omaha shows from 20+years ago, there are soooooo many new shows that could be aired and much better music that what you are showing on Saturday nite, why Moostash joe all the time when you have so many more band to show?? Have never seen any shows you taped in NY, WHY? Also many show from Medina have never been shown, why not update to the current world.? Also heard that you’ll be at Lost Isle in Carlton, Minnesota the middle of June, hope it happens. We love the show, but can’t stand the bands on Sat nite, we’ve seen them way to many times. Please help keep the music current thanks

  128. Another comment, Why do the camerament show shots of the ceiling and floor when there are people dancing and bands playing? Also when a bandmember is playing a solo do the cameramen show another bandmember just standing on stage? They need some help.

  129. Love the Big Joe Polka show,watch it every Sat $ wed. Specially l ike the Bobby Allan Polka Band and the wonderful cord-a-box player. I understand you will be coming to the Lost Isle in Carlton, Mn in June. I live close to there and would love to see the Bobby Allan Band there. Hope they will be included.

  130. We have to say that Big Joe has reeled us in as LONGTIME viewers… He is more than just a polka gentleman, he is a person you would like as a friend. I really likew hen polka paul from omaha nebraska comes on, he looks just like captain kangaroo. Jeanies interviews have gotten so much better and she is a good person to show our youth fancy styles. And the polka nuts are not geeks or lames, they are cutting edge. Big joe build winners.

  131. To Marv and Bev of Apr 16th. I heartily agree with you. The camera work sucks. I have been complaining on this blog for months, about the same complaint you voiced. Do you think Big Joe bothers to read these blogs? I don’t think so or if he does, he pays no attention to them. I’d like to see the dancers. An occasional shot of the band, fine, they need recognition, but 90% of camera work is devoted to the band. If I didn’t like polka music so much, I’d quit watching, but every Saturday night I faithfully tune in only to be disappointed all over again. Go to camerman school you camera guys.

  132. We were on our first time ever Big Joe Polka Show in Buffalo NY last October — and had a ball. But we’re anxiously wondering how come we haven’t seen the taping on TV yet? And a comment to all your criticizers on your program’s camera work—-From what we could see while we were there, they were doing an excellent job. Very professional and hi-tech. Some people can be so picky and impatient! Give the guy a break ya’ll!

  133. Please send your TV performance schedule and
    channel. Saw your show once–really enjoyed it.
    Where are you going to be this summer?
    Don’t know why we don’t have a polka party here
    in the Land of Enchantment–New Mexico.

  134. Where is that danced floor where television is coming from Is it Nebraska or Michigan??? Let me know Thanks

  135. We love Big Joe, also enjoy seeing his family, we grew up with polka music. Big Joe do you still travel to Texa?. Our favorite bands are the Polka Nuts,from Co.,Leon Olsen, from New Elm, Min.and Chad Przybylski, from Pulaski,Wi. Do you still film current shows, I hope so. Thanks, keep up the great music show.

  136. To Marv and Bev of Apr 16th. I heartily agree with you. The camera work sucks. I have been complaining on this blog for months, about the same complaint you voiced. Do you think Big Joe bothers to read these blogs? I don’t think so or if he does, he pays no attention to them. I’d like to see the dancers. An occasional shot of the band, fine, they need recognition, but 90% of camera work is devoted to the band. If I didn’t like polka music so much, I’d quit watching, but every Saturday night I faithfully tune in only to be disappointed all over again. Go to camerman school you camera guys.
    by al roberts on April 24th, 2010 It’s now May 22, I just copied my blog of last month. Why not? All of Big Joe’s shows are repeats.

  137. You people need to staop complaining about the camera work, those boys do a great job and the bands are fun to watch. Though I do want to see more dancers and more interviews with them. Why dont Big Joe come here and address us, we love everything he does and want to support him. We want new shows and we miss you big joe,

  138. What do you mean”they do a great job”? Their camera work sucks big time. And you criticize our complaining, and you yourself say that you’d like to see more of the dancers, that’s complaining about the camera work too.Now that I think about it, the Cameramen do, do a great job if all you wants to see are the bands and the top of the dancers heads.

  139. Biggy likes to see the bands, the dancers heads, and Big Joe’s bad vests. Indeed, Biggy loves the camera work. Biggy thinks they should start showing the dancers feet too. Biggy raps to the Polka Nuts and even did his doo into a mullet like that wiz kid on the dulcimer, Kevin. Biggy breaks out the leader hosen every sat night baby, and gets down with the smooth polka sounds coming from his tv. Yes, Big Joe speaks to Biggy’s soul.

  140. Dear Big Joe, I found your show while surfing on TV. before “Katrina” My husband and I come to Maine from April to November and watch it every time you are on. We miss you while we are in Louisiana because it is not available there. We miss your current shows and dancers who have become our “friends” We don’t know their names, but have “nicknamed” them and look forward to seeing them again. I hope you and RFDTV settle your dispute.When our children visit us they are anxious to see your show and watch it together. Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease Get it together/ We want you back
    Joan

  141. Dear Big Joe, I found your show while surfing on TV. before “Katrina” My husband and I come to Maine from April to November and watch it every time you are on. We miss you while we are in Louisiana because it is not available there. We miss your current shows and dancers who have become our “friends” We don’t know their names, but have “nicknamed” them and look forward to seeing them again. I hope you and RFDTV settle your dispute.When our children visit us they are anxious to see your show and we watch it together. Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease Get it together. We want you back
    Joan

  142. I want to know why the dancers aren’t shown more on the show as that is what people want to see. We can hear the music and don’t need to see the musicians so much. The dancers are what people want to see so let’s start showing the dancers a lot more.
    PLEASE someone pay attention to what the viewers are telling you. They want to see the dancers MORE

  143. It’s a JOKE! The worst thing I’ve ever seen.I do watch ever week just to see if it’s improved. To date it has not. Perhaps if Big Joe would cut loose with the green backs more talented and proffesional bands would appear. However, that being said, I like the Polka Nuts……Kevin is hot!

  144. Love you Big Joe! …..Glad your back. I also agree
    with Marv & Ben & Al. Need new camera man or send them to camera school. I love watching people dance. I could hear the music I don’t need to see the music…….Help us Big Joe! Yes, try to bring
    back the Polks Nuts..

    Irene Schiulazo

  145. You people who critisize Big Joe and his show are mean dorks. He is a iconic figgure in the polka world and he has lots of friends that go to his dances. Janie might get a job on a tv network one day as reporter as she is smart and talent person. My people friends say sorry to camermen, I insist you say sorry to them because they try hard. Polka Paul and Abe Lincoln are aunties favorite dancers. I like to dance show is on. GOOD JOB MR. BIG JOE.

  146. I watch the show every Sat. even though many of
    the shows are repeats. I was wondering why more
    Polish polka bands aren’t featured on the shows?

    Aren’t there Polish bands in the Nebraska or
    Great Plains/Midwest area that could play on the
    show? I enjoy listening to the other ethnic polka
    bands though.

  147. Love Big Joe’s show. The Bands are great.

  148. I want to buy some CD’S what do I do or how can I order them from Big Joe?

  149. Hey Big Joe! Great Bands need some good
    german bands, for some good german polka
    music. The real deal!

    P.S………….The cameramen improved it’s so
    nice to see the dances alot more.

  150. It looks like Big Joe is back !

  151. Hi Big Joe! I enjoy your show every Saturday night, good music, great show. I would like to hear the Polka Nuts band more on your show. They are a great band.

  152. When our cable first got RFD-TV, I went ahead and started recording the Big Joe show. I would go ahead and watch it on wednesday and note the numbers I liked or didn’t. On Thursday or Saturday i would go ahead and watch the program again and record the numbers I liked. That way, I could also go ahead and avoid some of Joe’s long winded orations. All together,I now have about a dozen 6 hour tapes that we can go ahead and watch whenever the mood for polka music takes us. As far as we are concerned, the best music came from the first year at Medina with the mid-west bands, and got progressively worse as time went by.

  153. Why are your shows all old? They are very good but I was wondering why they aren’t recent shows.

  154. Hey Big Joe………..What happen on Sat nite show (7-3-10) it was all old reruns. …… Was just enjoying all the bands with the new show…… That show was were the cameramen was at it’s
    worst…..I turn the show off…

    Maybe next week the show will go on with the NEW
    up to date show again ??????????????

  155. Another Saturday night, and another night of re-runs. I think I know why Big Joe won’t tell the cameraman to focus more on the dancers, it’s because all his shows are repetitive, and he can’t change what is already taped. So anyway, no use complaining as these blogs are going unheard and unanswered.It’s been several months since the complaints started coming in and nothing changes..

  156. Al…… Come to think about it your right! But I still feel that Big Joe reads his blogs. And that Big Joe should focus on what the viewers are complainting about for the future shows………Agree????

  157. Hi to all my new friends in Polka land- I think Big Joe listens to what we have to say and he will probably be on here soon sharing why he does what he does with the production crew. He IS a man of us people, so please respect all he does for Polka…..Big Joe always tells everyone to ‘GET UP AND DANCE’, but I want to see him dance, cause he is very serious and happy when he sees everyone dance, so him as a dancer would be Big treat for all. I love his Show and dance at home every week to music, so stop asking to see more of dancers and enjoy all the good we get to see. Happy music for all us new friends to enjoy. Thank you my pals.

  158. Bi Joe: I also would like to see more of the dancers! Also….I think the cameraman needs a new camera. The picture quality is not that great on some of these shows! There’s many good polka bands but my favorite is the “Polks Nuts”…from Brighton, CO!

  159. We enjoy your Polka Shows old and new. We watch your shows on TV several times a week. Sure would like to come to one in person. Do you have a schedule of when you’ll be in Minn, Nebraska, SD or even ND? Sure would like to know so we can try to attend.

  160. I think your show is great good job

  161. Where can I find a schedule of when you will be in MN, SD or ND?

  162. I watch the Bi Joe. You are good dancer show. Best fan person is me, Karl Von Hausen

  163. My husband does not miss a Joe’s Polka Show TV episode–Tuesday’s at 6:00PM and Saturdays at 9:00 PM and records all of them. Will you ever be back in Texas with the show?
    Mary Ann E.

  164. My father watches the big joe polka show I hate It,every song songs the same,and everyone dancing or trying to dance looks like they are on there last leg,the worst music I have ever heard In my life

  165. In reply to Karen Hagel on July 30th, 2010. You will never see the Big Joe Show originating in MN, SD, ND or anywhere else. I,m sure Big Joe does not have anything to do with the broadcasts anymore. All the current tapes/videos are the property of RFD TV. all we will ever see from here on out are reruns. The Last shows Big Joe taped in Buffalo and Nebraska he will not release them. So get used to seeing the same old reruns.

    by George C on August 5, 2010

  166. I love the Big Joe show but come on the shows are so OLD and reruns and same old people, and same old dancers from way back when. It is no fun to turn it on anymore and watch such old shows! Thought some new shows were taped, so what happened to them?
    Plus knowing several of the people have died playing in the bands from way back!!!! The outfits tell you how old the show is???? It will be taken off for sure if this isn’t straightened out real soon and some new shows to watch. Plus the camera men need to be replaced for sure!

  167. I heard a rumor tat RFD TV will be taking Joe off the air. but I hope not as Joe has quite a following, and great for RFDTV
    Fredr

  168. In reply to Fred Carter on August 8th, I just recieved an e-mail 2 days ago stating that RFD TV was going to terminate the big Joe Polka Show after 9 1/2 years. The e-mail requested everyone to call, write or e-mail RFD TV and demand that RFD TV keep Big Joe on the air. The strange part is If you continue to read the e-mail, you will notice at the bottom an advertisment to order CD’s from Polka Cassettes of Nebraska, which is Big Joes Company. I believe he is trying to hood wink the public to get people to write to RFD TV on his behalf. He knows he has a large following and hopes he can get a contract from RFD TV which will inrich his coffers.When all he has to do is negotiate with RFD TV in an honest and fair way. I’m sure the President of RFD is an honorable man and would negotiate with Big Joe fairly. Get off the stick Buig Joe and release some of the new tapings.

  169. When are we going to see some newer shows on Saturday night. The ones we are watching are at least ten years old. The shows broadcast on Wed. are a lot newer and more fun to watch.
    Why not switch them around?
    Thank You
    Donna Anderson

  170. For several years we enjoyed the Big Joe show on Saturday nights as part of the Saturday night line up. However, no longer! If all we are going to see is old reruns every week it might as well be off the air! My wife and I have wondered for months what is going on with the ancient shows? Not to mention the cameraman. Get something current or get off the air! And send the camera people to school!

  171. Hey…….This Saturday night (8/21 ) was only a year ago, it was tape in July of 09. not to bad ! Cameraman was NOT to bad that night either.

    Irene S

  172. I just got to view Big Joe on some cable channel here in Colorado and hear some polka music. I am native to Minnesota and of German/Polish/Chec/Norweigian background and culture and been to numerous ballrooms of dancing and music. Loved this show and the great feelings it brings back. I am very curious to find out when these shows are on and be more a part of them. GREAT and AWESOME stuff. I am catching some news that this show may be cancelled? Nooooooo This is a great heritage and upbeat part of life itself. I would join in any kind of force or sign-up to keep this show on the air.

  173. I am a Lawrence Welk fan and love the Big Joe Show! Polka folk music for the whole family. You see all kinds of dress and ages of happy people having fun. I get a kick out of seeing how people dance and each different band. Joe Beno, Ernie Kuchera and Kenny Z and Polka Joy and others are the most professional that I have seen. Polka Nuts Hammer Dulcimer is fun. I like history and enjoy the old ones to see how we were in those days with styles and so forth. Everything does not have to be “today” to be on air. I pray to God someone of the Lawrence Welk family would gather up an orchestra and team of singers like we had and continue this wonderful music. Now with television and the Internet you don’t have to travel the road, just get together and record it and put it out for everyone to view on TV and Internet. Go for it!!!

  174. I was wondering if someone could tell me if there are still tapings of this show. My grandmother has always wanted to go to a live show, she loves big Joe. she is 87. She has had a stroke and been very I’ll for a Long time but starting to gradually recover- This would probably be the last year she’s be able to travel so my family and I would drive anywhere, is it still going on or are they all just reruns? And if they are still taping does anyone know dates?
    Thanks

  175. I was wondering where are all the Texas Czech Bands we went to see in Round Top, Texas, we were there 2 times. Those are the bands we know quite well, the music you play we were not raised on them. But We still listen to them
    I know its 2 different parts of the United States,but we are still Czechs , Germans and Polish.Thanks

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