Lowndes County GaArchives Newspapers.....Area Band "The River" ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/ga/gafiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Robert Latimer Hurst November 8, 2003 AREA BAND `THE RIVER' IS STRIVING TO PLEASE AUDIENCES WITH THEIR STYLE OF MUSIC This Group Has `Warmed-Up' For Country Stars LeAnn Rimes, Montgomery Gentry And Many Others By Robert Latimer Hurst Once upon a time, they were known as "Whiskey River." But all of that changed when, for trademark reasons, that name could not be used; therefore, not wishing to lose the image they had gained with the this name, they condensed themselves to "The River." And because of their composing, arranging and performing, these area talents, by 1999, had released their debut CD "Reflections," which, without marketing for large-scale distribution, sold locally thousands of units. Radio stations picked up this group's music, making "The River" a rising group in the country music entertainment profession. With their recent appearances at Wild Adventures in Valdosta as warm-up for both LeAnn Rimes and Montgomery Gentry, these musicians wowed the audiences with their enthusiastic performances and talents. It is no wonder they, earlier, attracted the attention of Neostar Sports & Entertainment CEO Ralph Stringer, who expressed a strong interest in this band and connected these entertainers with two of Nashville's producers, Buddy Cannon and Norro Wilson. Now, they can include in their resume' associations with such stars as Kenny Chesney, Shely Wright, Sammy Kershaw, Billy Ray Cyrus, George Jones, Sarah Evans, among many. Though disappointed after the results of a four-song demo before six major Nashville labels, the group found itself working even harder to prove that here was potential for marketable success in the music business. Then, in 2001, Larry Butler, who produced Kenny Rodgers' "The Gambler" and composed the hit song "Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song," appeared interested, and another deal began. But it, too, proved unsuccessful. With some changes in members, the remaining musicians strived even harder to make the chemistry work with the new team. Finally, the gel hardened when Darrin Robbins, who would become lead singer, agreed to join Henry McGill, Patrick Best, Wally Colwell and Ferrell Soles. Marketing throughout the Southeast, then, became a target item for the boys as they bonded, allowing personalities and talents to lead them into being not only musicians but also entertainers. With an agenda that includes such diverse blends of country, Southern rock, gospel and blues, their audience appeal has scaled upward as they have toured, promoting that young image that attracts youthful followings but still maintains that professionalism realized by older audiences. "We are currently working on our second CD," The River tells, adding that they really thank the many fans who have supported and are following them.