Famed Southern rock band coming to Minden

They’ve recorded more than two dozen albums, have numerous hits and their definitive blend of rock, rhythm & blues, jazz, country, and gospel were an instrumental part in shaping the sounds of Southern rock. Now, thanks to the expanding scope of today’s music, a new generation of fans is learning what the rest of their fans have known for so long — the Marshall Tucker Band delivers good music that knows no boundaries.

Still led today by founding member and lead singer Doug Gray, they represent a time and place in music that will never be duplicated. And they’ll be live in concert a TJ’s Corral at the Carson Valley Inn in Minden on July 28.

The Marshall Tucker Band got its start in Spartanburg, S.C., when Doug Gray teamed up with Tommy Caldwell and Toy Caldwell, Paul T. Riddle, George McCorkle and Jerry Eubanks, borrowing the name “Marshall Tucker” from a piano tuner whose name was found on a key ring in their old rehearsal space.

In 1972, they signed with Capricorn Records, the same label that guided The Allman Brothers Band, Wet Willie, and others to national fame.

The Marshall Tucker Band opened shows for The Allman Brothers in 1973, and the following year, they began to headline their own shows across America due to the platinum-plus sales of their debut album. They toured constantly playing sheds, stadiums, theaters, fairs, and festivals.

In years to come, The Marshall Tucker Band would wow critics and influence major country acts like Alabama, The Kentucky Headhunters, Confederate Railroad, and Travis Tritt.

Along the way, the band has recorded 22 studio albums, three DVDs, three live albums and many compilations.

In 1980 Tommy Caldwell died as a result of injuries from an auto accident. In 1984 Toy Caldwell, George McCorkle, and Paul Riddle decided to retire. Doug Gray and Jerry Eubanks with the blessings of the other three continued to record and perform as The Marshall Tucker Band. In 1993 Toy Caldwell, who wrote the majority of their songs, passed away, as did George.

The performance at the Carson Valley Inn will be at 8 p.m. Tickets range in price from $39 to $49 at www.carsonvalleyinn.com.