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Skillet Lickers Close Concert Season
It is only fitting that the The Union County Historical Society presents a grand finale to the concert season with a program that features the world famous Skillet Lickers. The concert will begin at 7:00 p.m. On Friday, November 7 in The Old Courthouse on the Square.
The original Skillet Lickers, lead by Gid Tanner, were the second group to record what eventually became known as country music. It was the Skillet Lickers who influenced the formation of country music more than any of the other pioneer recording bands. Many of their songs are standards today, and are performed at almost any festival or gathering of musicians. The melody line of one of their recordings "Pass Around the Bottle and We'll All Take a Drink" is the same tune used in the University of Georgia fight song. Their 1934 recording of "Down Yonder" was the first "country" song to sell a million copies and is the favorite of most square dancing groups today.
The Skillet Lickers probably hold the record for the longevity of a band. It has now been over ninety years since their first recording, and they are still going strong. In addition, many of the present band members have family ties that go back to the original band members.
Phil Tanner and his son, Russ, represent the third and fourth generations of direct descent from Gid, himself. Gid's son, and Phil's father, was Gordon Tanner who kept the band going for many years.
Fleet Stanley, who plays dobro with the group, is the grandson of Rob Stanley. Rob was a protégé of both Gid Tanner and John Carson. He won the state fiddling championship in 1918.
Larry Holcomb is the bass player, and Brian Morgan sings and plays mandolin.
Joel Aderhold, banjo player for the group, has long been a part of the north Georgia bluegrass scene. He, along with his wife Earlene and multiple generations of their families have been involved in making music.
The Old Courthouse on the Square in Blairsville is a favorite venue of the Skillet Lickers. In fact, the original band performed here more than seventy-five years ago. Band member Fleet Stanley's parents were married in the old building. The band has recorded a live album in The Old Courthouse. They have also compiled CD's from old original recordings of the Skillet Lickers and will have them on sale after their performance.
The Union County Historical Society wishes to thank everyone who makes the concerts a success, especially the member volunteers and the musicians who have donated their time and talents. There is no required admission charge to the concerts. Voluntary contributions to the restoration fund are always welcomed and appreciated.
Date and Time
Friday Nov 7, 2014
7:00 PM - 7:00 PM EST
Every Friday Night
Concerts start at 7pm
Location
Old Historic Court House
Downtown Blairsville
Fees/Admission
Voluntary contributions to the maintenance fund are always welcomed and appreciated.
Contact Information
For more information (706) 745-5493