Local Legends Play at Home
The legendary Kentucky Headhunters (L-R) Doug Phelps, Fred Young, Greg Martin, and Richard Young.
The Georgia Thundersbolts (L-R) Riley Couzzourt, Bristol Perry, T.J. Lyle, Logan Tolbert, and Zach Everett.
By Lake Doss
C-T Staff Writer
Photos by Lake Doss C-T
On Friday, May 27, The Kentucky Headhunters played 4th Friday on the Square in Downtown Glasgow accompanied by The Georgia Thunderbolts hailing from Rome, Georgia. The Georgia Thunderbolts have been touring with bands the likes The Kentucky Headhunters, Black Stone Cherry, and others, playing all over the country.
The Georgia Thunderbolts are led by vocalist T. J. Lyle, guitarist Logan Tolbert, bassist Zach Everett, and drummer Bristol Perry.
“We’re 5 guys from Georgia who just live to play rock and roll music. We write songs about the things we live and experiences we have. We love to play live, it is our favorite thing to do,” said drummer Bristol Perry.
Perry also shared that the band got started in 2016 playing shows in Georgia and other surrounding states. “We got asked to open the Chattooga County Fair near our hometown as support for The Kentucky Headhunters. Richard Young watched us play our whole set and asked us after the show if we wanted to come to Kentucky to make a record. It changed everything for us. We were signed to Mascot Records the following year. We owe a big thanks to Richard, we wouldn’t be where we are without him for sure.”
When they have the opportunity to play with The Kentucky Headhunters they said it is like performing with family. “We love them and look up to them. They guide and help us in everything we do. They are just good people. We are grateful for everything they do for us.”
The Kentucky Headhunters closed the show for the night. The band now playing 53 years later between their first group Itchy Brothers from 1968 till 1986, and 1986 up to today as The Kentucky Headhunters. When asked how many times they have played in Glasgow, Headhunter guitarist Richard Young said, “It must be near 40 or 50 times over the 53 years.”
Richard had a lot to say about how thankful and blessed the band has been over the years stating, “It could not go without mentioning all our wonderful parents, wives, and children, our band was fortunate to have. You cannot do what we do for a living without the total support of all family as well as friends and fans.”
“Mine and Fred’s parents, James Howard and Gwendolyn Young were always there for us. Daddy was a school teacher and taught us about the fine arts and antiques as well as giving us a great sense of humor. He always said, no matter what path you choose in life, be nice to everyone, it cost nothing to smile.”
Kentucky Headhunter Richard Young playing guitar and backing vocals.
Georgia Thunderbolt lead vocalist T.J. Lyle belting out some melodic lyrics.
Georgia Thunderbolt drummer Bristol Perry.
Georgia Thunderbolt guitarist Riley Couzzourt.
