Summer Schedule Set For Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales in Gatlinburg

It’s that time of season; it’s that time of year! The summer schedule has now been set for exciting street performers entertaining guests for an entire month here! Cloggers and artisans are also a big part of this group, but I’m going to focus on the musical aspect of this pop-up event throughout different areas in downtown Gatlinburg. In this post, the newcomers take center stage as the Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales festival welcomes a new crop of talent to their slate of musicians, which begins on June 28th and ends July 27th. Let’s take note! Here are six newcomers.

The Hodnett Family Band

The cool thing about Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales is the age-range of musicianship from these groups—and also the family aspect. Meet The Hodnett Family Band! They are, of course, a family band playing bluegrass and gospel hailing from central North Carolina. This is a father (Jamie) and his two sons and daughter: Brooke, Grayson, and Evan. Dad is a multi-instrumentalist playing the fiddle, banjo, dobro, and guitar, so there’s no doubt who inspired his kids to pick up their own instrument and style. Here is their Facebook Page. They will be performing nightly from July 14-20 in downtown Gatlinburg at places soon to be determined.

• All photos taken courtesy of Smoky Mountains Tunes and Tales Facebook Page.

The Lorentzen Trio

If you’re seeing a theme with these groups, you’re not imagining it. Yes, this is also a family affair comprised of Tim Lorentzen playing rhythm guitar, and his daughters, Jazmyn (violin and vocals) and Vanya (percussion and vocals). Their home is Southern Indiana, and musically, they want to keep it fun and let the old-time spirit of the music live on. The family lineage of instrumentalists is strong with Tim’s son, Jasper, as the bass player for the popular Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, and daughter, Starlit, in the Will Stoltz Band.

Robert Cyphers

This man is no stranger to playing venues, recording music, and sharing his love for the craft. Robert Cyphers is a veteran of the business, hailing from Chattanooga, TN. His band is Northwoods Revival, which he started six years ago. They have released an EP of 5 songs; won second place in a Friends of Hixson, TN talent contest, and played in numerous events throughout Tennessee and North Georgia. He recently moved to Knoxville to enjoy retirement, but the music bug will certainly keep him playing occasional festivals like this one!

Rita Ruby

Rita Ruby is another solo performer with a passion for singing and performing bluegrass, country, and gospel songs. She was raised in Southern Ohio where she honed her rich musical spirit in churches. No stranger to playing for diverse crowds, she has not only been across this country, but also internationally, helping folks enhance their experience; in fact, she is well-known for asking audience members to sing along, which aligns with her whole purpose. Rita currently lives in Illinois, but spends a good amount of time in neighboring states, no doubt sharing her love for music.

The Rust Family Band

Back to the families, The Rust Family Band is another newcomer to the Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales lineup. This is a group of siblings performing Gospel and Classic Country music from Kingsport, TN. The youngest is Jasper, at 13, who is the band’s bassist, vocalist, and, according to fans, the heartthrob. AnMarie, 16, is lead singer and guitarist, who gets compliments for sounding like the legendary Alison Krauss. Addie, 20, plays one of my favorite instruments in this genre, the mandolin, and also sings, with influences from the likes of Patsy Cline, the Everly Brothers, and Frankie Valli. Amelia is 18 and plays the unique autoharp. She is inspired by the Carter family and loves being the emcee of the group. Look for them the first week of Tunes and Tunes Tuesday through Friday in downtown Gatlinburg!

JP Sudduth

JP Sudduth has called Sevier County home since 2018, and he is a 26-year-old singer/guitarist hailing from Carthage, MS. He picked up the music bug as a young teenager, finding his range in the Country, Bluegrass, and Contemporary Christian realm. His inspirations include Tyler Childers, Zach Bryan, and Robert Earl Keen. You can find him at locations in downtown Gatlinburg every Monday and Friday night from 6-10 during the month-long Tunes and Tales.

Is everyone ready for a great summer of live music in Gatlinburg? I know I am. Stay tuned to my Facebook page, Gatlinburg NOW, as I will do my best to cover most of these ultra-talented musicians. If you’re wondering, all of these performances are free to the general public, but tips are graciously accepted by each band and solo artist. Thank you for reading and subscribing to my publication! It is greatly appreciated!