This month, Hashtag had the pleasure of learning more about Greenbrier County native, Thomas Taylor. Thomas has become a music staple in the county and surrounding areas, providing traditional country music for fans to enjoy. He and his band members have dedicated much time and effort to create music that connects to the roots of the country music era.

What do you do musically?

Thomas explained that he has a six-person traditional country band that has mastered many different instruments. While he can play just about every instrument, he mostly plays guitar when performing. Thomas is also a singer and songwriter and has been since he first picked up a guitar.

What inspired you to become a musician?

The main inspiration Thomas received was from his grandfather, who had a love for music and often played as Thomas watched. “My grandfather left me his guitar when he passed. I decided to pick it up and see where it goes,” he explained. “The stars aligned, and I became a musician, eventually forming a band.”

What draws you to music?

Like many other musicians, Thomas is drawn to music because of the connection it creates with others. Seeing others happy to watch his band perform and the connection music has to their lives is the best feeling he can think of.

Do you have any idols?

Thomas stated that he looks up to all the artists from the Bristol Sessions, a series of recording sessions held in 1927 in Bristol, Tennessee, which some consider the “Big Bang” of modern country music. This marked the debut of the Carter Family, one of Thomas’ biggest idols. Johnny Cash and Bob Wills are also at the top of his list of idols. When asked what it is about these musicians that inspired him, he replied, “Johnny Cash and the Carter Family were at the forefront of country music, and Bob Wills to Western Swing. I try to carry on the tradition of their music through my own.”

Where do you perform?

The Thomas Taylor Band plays just about anywhere in the county and beyond and also books private shows for various occasions. He and his band will be performing at the Asylum during the Lewisburg Winter Music Festival.

Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?

“Always be yourself. Never let anyone try to tell you what to play or what not to play.”

Do you have any albums?

As of now, the Thomas Taylor Band has one album out called “Another Round,” which came to life during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was difficult for the band to perform as venues were often closed and social distancing rules were in place. They used this downtime to focus on creating an album their fans were sure to enjoy. Thomas said they are in the process of releasing another album in the near future.

To learn more about the Thomas Taylor Band, see upcoming events, or book the band for events and parties, visit thomastaylorband.com or find them on Facebook.