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Biography
Formed in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA, it might surprise you to learn that the original line up which came together in the late 60s/70s, did not contain a single member by the name of Marshall Tucker. Instead their slightly misleading name was accidentally borrowed from a local piano tuner and was set in stone when their album of the same name was released in 1973 and certified gold just two years later.
The band followed up their album with the start of a relentless, decade-long touring schedule which saw them playing more than 300 shows a year. They began to impress fans and fellow musicians on the road including the likes of fiddler Charlie Daniels and blues guitarist Elvin Bishop.
The band soared through the 70s, finding huge commercial success for albums like ‘Searchin’ for a Rainbow’ and ‘Carolina Dreams’ however the 80s brought hard times for the band. Their bass player and co-founder Tommy Caldwell was killed in a car accident and whilst a replacement was bought in, the band was never able to recapture the success they experienced in the 70s.
As the band moved into the twenty first century they have continued to release albums and are still a popular live act playing up to 150 and 200 shows a year. They even experienced crossover success when the band were mentioned in Nelly’s remix of the song cruise which eventually went 6 times platinum.
Live reviews
The Marshall Tucker Band has been around for almost 35 years. It is really hard to believe they have been around so long. They are one of the best pure Southern Rock bands that came out of that era. Their line up has changed over the years but they are still touring the country playing small towns and small venues.
I saw them at an outdoor concert in a small town in Western North Carolina. There were about 1,000 people at the show and it was nice night. The band set up was very simple but the music was timelines. They did all their classic rock stables including “Can’t You see” and “Fire On the Mountain”. They closed with their rock anthem “Heard it in a Love Song”. The crowd sang to almost every lyric and they were left with wanting more. I am not sure how many of the guys were originally but they were all good and it was a lot of fun. It made me feel very nostalgic for that time and age. It was also a very cheap concert and the crowd was very good and into the music. If they ever swing through your town you should check them out. It is well worth it.
It's been awhile since I last saw the Marshall Tucker Band. Since Tommy died and Toy left, it just wasn't the same. I know Doug Gray has been touring with the name for about 25 years, but just hadn't really wanted to see them.
But now that they were at the re-opening of the Variety Playhouse, I thought this would be a great time to see the MTB again.
They did not disappoint. the two lead guitarists were outstanding and Doug Gray's nephew sat in with them and could hit the notes Doug hit back in the 70's & 80's. The flutist/saxophone/keyboardist was fantastic. All together they make a great band.The only thing holding them back was Doug Gray, man he has lost his voice big time. Basically he just talks to the crowd then stands back and let's the other guys play. He's kind of like Lawrence Welk.
I would highly recommend seeing them. Just don't expect Doug to sing much. They don't really need him though.
scotchman2926
The opening group, Prophets and Outlaws were outstanding. They played about eight songs. Definitely going to follow that group. The Marshall Tucker band musicians were outstanding. The lead singer - the only original group member - was just okay, in my opinion. That was a little disappointing, but the lead guitarist and sax, flute, and keyboard player were phenomenal.
That was my one and only time I saw The Marshall Tucker Band and and I most likely will not see them again.
Zeaven52
Marshall Tucker Band was a great band back in the day. I had previously seen them at the CMAFest in Nashville, Tn. a couple of years ago and they sounded really good! This go around was much different, the band sounded ok but the lead singer was REALLY DRAGGING!! He slowed the whole band down and did not sound good at all!! The rest of the band members were up to par. Would not recommend paying to see them, for free...maybe!
debbie-beaman
Saw the MTB on the Southern Rock Cruise, still can play the tunes and Marcus Harrison the flute, keyboard and sometimes vocals is worth the admission. Doug Gray is the leader and seems more about keeping Southern Rock alive, but the voice is still pretty good. To see and sing along is still a treat, never know how much longer they will keep playing, so go and see when they come to town.
allan-gastwirth
Unfortunately the lead singer was sick and did not do much singing. The band was good but they did not play Heard it in a Love Song!!!!! We were very disappointed. Of course it’s been over 20 years since I saw them perform so I guess the lead singer, Doug Gray, is not what he used to be. Too much talking and instrumental.
ashtonsbluff
Even though there is only one surviving original member band member, Doug. They continue to never disappoint. Awesome show last night at the Seminole Casino. First time I saw them was in 1974. I have always loved this band. Great job! Hope you continue to tour so I can see you again in the future.
debaero2
The music was amazing! The performance unforgettable!
After decades this band is still going strong!
The venue was great, and I am so happy I was at this concert! I met some great people and had a great time!
One of my all time favorite bands!
Hoping they return again!
Great show. The band sounded great after over 45 years of music they still sound amazing. I enjoyed the venue. I would’ve liked to have been able to sit during the show as I recently had hip replacement surgery so it was a little difficult standing for over 90 minutes.
jmrodrig68
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