Along with Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Atlanta Rhythm Section (ARS) define what is meant by “southern rock.” The sound is hard to define, but can be thought of as a blend of country, honky tonk, and blues-rock. ARS’s hits include “Doraville,” “Imaginary Lover,” and “Spooky.”
The Atlanta Rhythm Section was created in 1970, with original members J.R. Cobb, Robert Nix, Dean Daughtry, Paul Goddard, Barry Baily, and Rodney Justo. As is typical of bands, the lineup has changed repeatedly, and currently Justo is the only original member still touring, though even he has taken a break at one point. He and the others first began playing together as the session band for Studio One, a recording studio in Doraville, a Georgia town near Atlanta. Playing for other artists spurred the musicians to go out on their own, and Decca Records agreed, releasing their first album, the self-titled “Atlanta Rhythm Section” in 1972.
They have dropped 13 studio albums, three live albums, seven compilation albums, 15 singles, and two video albums. Their best-selling album, 1978’s “Champagne Jam,” rose to No. 7 on the U.S. charts, earning it Platinum status.
A concert review says:
“What we got was a GREAT mix of musicians … If you get the chance to see them, go …”
The Atlanta Rhythm Section will be at the Ludlow Garage on Saturday, December 16. Promotional materials to advertise events like this can be created by promoters using poster printing.