Doug Gray Of The Marshall Tucker Band Joins Brian Scott [AUDIO]

One of the biggest bands of the 70's , 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. Doug Gray shared that story with Brian Scott.

We figured it would last a weekend and then we would name the band something else and it's lasted 41 years.

In 1972, they signed with Capricorn Records, the same label that guided The Allman Brothers Band, Wet Willie, and others to national fame. The MTB 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. Doug talks about the road warrior lifestyle.

You know I'm looking for a little serenity, I'm looking forward to coming to Wyoming for a little while.

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.  1n 1993 Toy Caldwell, who wrote the majority of their songs, passed away, as did George McCorkle in 2007.  Jerry Eubanks retired in 1996 and Doug Gray continues to lead the current band of musicians winning new young fans as well as satisfying the loyal fans of several generations. Doug talks about the MTB current audience,

You know, these people come to see us because we created a memory for them, for those 9 years that we played over 300 shows a year.

The Marshall Tucker Band takes to the stage Saturday, August 4th as a part of the Beartrap Summer Festival. Advance tickets are available at www.BeartrapSummerFestival.com.

Hear the entire interview with Doug Gray here.