Musicians and Bands of Georgia

A Spanish proverb states, “He who sings scares away his woes”. While there is certainly an element of truth in that saying that is not to say that all music is written to use against fear. However, music has often been referred to as the sound that soothes the savage beast. In fact, as far back as Biblical times, music has been an important part of life. Consequently, it is no wonder that centuries later, people all across the globe turn to music in times of hope, victory, discouragement and joy.
Georgia has long been a favorite location for musicians. And whether it is the contemporary Christian groups such as Casting Crowns or Third Day, classic sounds of the Allman Brothers or Johnny Mercer, the country melody of musicians like Alan Jackson and Trisha Yearwood or pop culture groups like Outkast or Widespread Panic, music and Georgia will forever be a part of life-regardless of where one may call home.

Alan Jackson (1958)
Born in Newnan, Georgia, Alan Jackson grew up singing in church, and then later on had a series of odd jobs, before catching his break with Glen Campbell. He and his wife Denise moved to Nashville and after a year of working at the Nashville Network, Jackson ultimately signed his first recording contract and his debut album, Here in the Real World was released in 1990. He has won over 2 dozen awards, has had numerous chart toppers and was inducted into the Georgia Hall of Fame in 2001.
Learn more about Alan Jackson of Newnan, Georgia

Allman Brothers
From tragedy to triumph, the Allman Brothers have been a part of the music landscape for over 30 years.  Their sound encompasses blues, rock, R&B and soul and continues to remain a top concert draw today.
Learn more about the Allman Brothers

B-52s
Athens, Georgia has been the early stomping grounds for many musicians. Its college town atmosphere makes it the ideal venue for new bands. One of these bands is the B-52’s.  When the band first formed they had minimal music experience, but eventually became the group that is recognized today for a list of great songs.
Visit our page for the B-52s

Black Crowes
Since their beginning in 1989, the Black Crowes have grown in popularity as a group of Atlanta musicians to being listed in VH1’s Top 100 list. In addition, they have received recognition from Melody Maker  and the readers of Rolling Stone voted them 'Best New American Band' in 1990.
Learn more about Georgia's Black Crowes

Johnny Mercer (1909-1975)
Born in Savannah, Georgia, Johnny Mercer is the composer of 1,500+ songs. His music is known for its modern-day lyrics, Jazz influences and being written more for emotion than for music and poetic rhythm.
Check out our page for Johnny Mercer to learn more.

Otis Redding
As the King of Soul, Otis Redding had a large following during his brief years as an American music icon. He recorded numerous songs, but perhaps his most renowned is,”Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” which was recorded just days before his death.
Hear Otis Redding sing and read bio

Outkast
With 6 Grammy Awards, 25 million albums sold and 5 studio albums, Outkast has been a hit since their debut in the early 1990s.

R. E. M.
A musically skilled group, originating in Athens, Georgia, REM is known for its mumbled, cryptic lyrics.  Their drive to fame was a slow yet steady one, culminating in nationwide success by the late 1980s.

If you want to see band members from R.E.M. all you have to do is hang out in Athens long enough. Just about everyone that has gone to school at the University of Georgia or lived in Athens in the last thirty years has an R.E.M. spotting story.
More about R.E.M. of Athens, Georgia

Trisha Yearwood
 This Georgia artist got her start on the national country music platform with the help of Garth Brooks. Originally from Georgia, Trisha Yearwood has had a love affair with country music most of her life. She has recorded a number of albums and was inducted into the Georgia Hall of Fame in 2000. Trisha Yearwood is an alumnus of Young Harris College.
Tricia Yearwood of Georgia bio and fun fact

Wahoo Creek Band
Although a relative newcomer to the music scene, Wahoo Creek Band is no stranger to music and entertaining. The band features original songs as well as songs by other artist. They are based in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Learn more about the Wahoo Creek Band

Widespread Panic
This Georgia band can claim being the host of the largest CD release party in history, and has played with renowned groups such as the Allman Brothers. They have risen from their humble roots to nationwide recognition and have been a part of both radio and television.
Read more about Widespread Panic

Zac Brown Band
Touring all over America and having released five Number One hit singles, this relative new comer to the music scene has already won a list of awards.
Our guide to the Zac Brown Band