COUNTRY
RIVER BAND
Athens Georgia's Favorite Classic County Band
For generations, Country River Band has stood as one of Georgia's premier ambassadors of traditional country music. Hailing from Athens, Georgia, the band has spent decades preserving the authentic sound that helped define country music, earning a reputation as one of the state's longest-running and most respected classic country bands.
With roots dating back to the 1960s, Country River Band has remained remarkably faithful to the music that inspired them. While musical trends have come and gone, the band's passion for the timeless songs of Merle Haggard, George Jones, Conway Twitty, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams, George Strait, and countless other country legends has never wavered.
Their performances capture the heart and soul of classic honky-tonk country, blending rich harmonies, masterful musicianship, and genuine Southern storytelling into every show.
Music runs deep within the band's heritage. Founding member Roger Thurmond helped establish the group's legacy, and today that tradition proudly continues through his sons, Tom and Tim Thurmond, who grew up immersed in the sounds of classic country music. Their lifelong dedication has helped ensure that Country River Band remains true to its roots while continuing to entertain new generations of country music fans.
Throughout its distinguished career, Country River Band has earned widespread recognition across the Southeast. The band is a five-time Georgia Country Award winner and, in 2024, was honored with induction into the Georgia Country Music Hall of Fame, recognizing decades of excellence and their lasting contributions to preserving traditional country music in the Peach State.
They have also shared stages with nationally recognized country artists while remaining a favorite attraction at festivals, fairs, theaters, dance halls, and community celebrations throughout Georgia and beyond.
Today's lineup features Tom Thurmond (drums), Tim Thurmond (bass guitar and vocals), Andy Carlson (fiddle and vocals), Danny Smith (lead guitar and vocals), and Joe Turner (pedal steel guitar and vocals) - a group of seasoned musicians whose chemistry, professionalism, and love for traditional country music shine through every performance.
Whether performing heartfelt ballads, classic dance favorites, or timeless country standards, Country River Band delivers an unforgettable experience that transports audiences back to the golden era of country music.
Their commitment to authenticity, exceptional musicianship, and genuine connection with audiences has made them one of Georgia's most beloved country music institutions.
For fans who appreciate country music the way it was meant to be played, Country River Band continues to prove that true country music never goes out of style.
