Kentucky Headhunters return to Fling Barn Aug. 24

The Grammy Award-winning Kentucky Headhunters will be appearing live, in concert at The Fling Barn, south of Hillsboro, Friday, Aug. 24.

Brothers Richard and Fred Young, along with their cousin, Greg Martin, and Anthony Kenney, began their musical journey in 1968 with the formation of the group Itchy Brother.

After touring the club circuit throughout the 1970s without the benefit of a recording contract, the group headed for Nashville in the early 1980s.

While drummer Fred Young and guitarist Greg Martin toured as sidemen for various artists, including Ronnie McDowell, Richard Young signed on as a songwriter with a Nashville publishing company. By the mid-80s Richard, Fred and Greg were ready to try again as Itchy Brother. When bassist Anthony Kenney declined an offer to rejoin the group, he was replaced with new found friend Doug Phelps in 1986. Doug's brother, Ricky Phelps, soon joined the group as vocalist and The Kentucky Headhunters were born.

In October 1989, the group released their first album, PICKIN' ON NASHVILLE, which yielded three hit singles; "Walk Softly on This Heart of Mine", "Dumas Walker" and "Oh, Lonesome Me". That same year The Academy of Country Music named the Kentucky HeadHunters "Top New Vocal Duo or Group."

In 1990, PICKIN' ON NASHVILLE was named "Album of the Year" by the Country Music Association. The CMA also awarded the HeadHunters "Vocal Group of the Year" honors in 1990 and 1991.

They won the Grammy Award in 1990 for Best Country Performance for a Duo or Group. Recently, they were inducted into the Kentucky Songwriters' Hall of Fame.

The Kentucky Headhunters have released 10 albums, including a "live" album in 2009 and their latest release, DIXIE LULLABIES, in 2011.

In addition, they have released a "Greatest Hits" and "Best Of" compilation. Current members are Richard Young (guitar & vocals), Doug Phelps (bass guitar & vocals), Greg Martin (lead guitar) and Fred Young (drums & percussion).

The Kentucky Headhunters will be appearing Friday, Aug. 24 at The Fling Barn. Slow & Low Bar-B-Que begins serving at 7 p.m. and music starts at 8 p.m., with opening act Blue Steel.

Admission is $35. Advance tickets are available by calling 937-393-2500.

The Fling Barn is located 6 miles south of Hillsboro at 8205 West Berrysville Road. For directions or more information, visit www.flingbarn.com or e-mail bill@flingbarn.com.