Formed in 1970 in Doraville, Georgia, Atlanta Rhythm Section (ARS) emerged from Atlanta’s top studio musicians. Members included Dean Daughtry and Robert Nix from Roy Orbison’s Candymen, and J.R. Cobb and Daughtry from Classics IV (“Spooky,” “Stormy,” “Traces”). The original lineup also featured Rodney Justo (later replaced by Ronnie Hammond), Barry Bailey, and Paul Goddard.

After early struggles with Decca Records, ARS found success with Polydor Records. Their 1977 hit “So In To You” and the gold-certified album A Rock And Roll Alternative marked their breakthrough. The platinum album Champagne Jam (1978) produced hits like “Imaginary Lover” and “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight.” During their peak, ARS performed at the White House for President Jimmy Carter.

In the mid-‘90s, ARS reunited to re-record classics and perform live, with original members Daughtry, Hammond, and Bailey joined by new musicians. They were inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 1996. Despite lineup changes and the loss of members like Paul Goddard in 2014, ARS continues to tour, showcasing their enduring hits and musical talent.

Come see them rock the stage at the Millwald Theatre on August 9th!