Local Music Legends Reflect on Carroll County's Rich Musical Heritage

HUNTINGDON, TN – A recent interview at Huntingdon City Hall brought together local music veterans Carl Byars and Don Carnell, who shared captivating stories and insights into the vibrant musical history of Huntingdon and Carroll County. The discussion, moderated by Johnny McClure, delved into their early inspirations, unique performance venues, and the profound impact of regional music scenes.

Carl Byars, a member of The Cool Daddy Trio, recalled his formative years being shaped by icons like Elvis, Roy Rogers, and television programs such as American Bandstand, placing his musical awakening in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Don Carnell, from the Double Edge Band, humorously admitted that his initial motivation was "girls," which led him to local dances and performances by bands like Don McFall and Tommy Cisco at the Westport Community Center.

Both musicians detailed their journeys with instruments. Byars initially played guitar before switching to drums in high school due to demand, often keeping his drum set in his '59 Chevrolet for impromptu gigs. Carnell's drumming aspirations were cut short by his father's disapproval of the noise, leading him to an old Roy Rogers guitar and early lessons from his Aunt Louise and later, local radio DJ Ed Cisco.

The conversation painted a vivid picture of a bustling local music scene. Byars and Carnell performed at numerous venues — from front porches, hay barns, hog sales, McKenzie's Bowling Alley, The Dixie, and larger venues, with audiences of a few to thousands.

A particularly unique venue mentioned was "The Underground," a space created by Byars and Dale Holmes in the basement of a commercial laundry in Huntingdon. "We needed a place to play because you couldn't play in clubs; we weren't old enough," Byars explained. This youth-friendly spot, complete with adult chaperones, became a popular hub despite its "gritty charm," including a ceiling that was "falling in on us". Carnell also recounted playing in places as varied as the Mid-South Coliseum and a "hog chute" , while Byars recalled a hay barn with minimal power and even Discovery Park, performing "where the big brontosaurus bones were".

The influence of nearby music powerhouses Nashville and Memphis was significant. Byars noted that discovering major music was recorded in these cities brought the sounds "closer to home", creating a "sweet spot" for local artists.

The interview also highlighted many local legends. Carl Mann, a talented singer and songwriter, was remembered for his incredible talent and struggles with alcohol, which some believe hindered his national breakthrough. An anecdote recalled that his "Mona Lisa" release charted closely with Conway Twitty's version, potentially blunting its impact. Recent efforts to recognize Mann locally included a historical marker unveiled on near the log cabins at the intersection of High Street in Huntingdon.

Ed Cisco, a prominent radio DJ on WHDM, was celebrated for his call-in request show and his mentorship of young musicians. Carnell shared a memorable story about Cisco playing the controversial song "The Lord Knows I'm Drunk" against the program director's wishes, leading to Cisco's move to another station "out of necessity." Carnell also recounted his early touring days with Tommy Cisco, including a naive bus trip that involved driving in the emergency lanes in Atlanta and another incident in which the young musicians accidentally ended up in Gulfport instead of their intended destination.

Other notable figures discussed included Max Bybee, Lloyd Rainey, Paula Bridges, Mark Oakley, Ernie Smothers, and Gordon Stoker of the Jordanaires, underscoring the deep connections between Carroll County and the broader music industry.

Reflecting on the current state of music, Byars observed a generational shift. "It doesn't seem to be a big thing," he said, attributing it to the "abundance of online stuff, YouTube". He noted that in the past, people had to attend live venues, whereas now, music is readily accessible on phones and televisions. Carnell added that karaoke and pre-recorded music can mask true talent, emphasizing that "you never know how somebody sounds until you go hear them live".

The interview concluded with a shared appreciation for the rich tapestry of local music history, with one story often triggering another, reinforcing the strong community memory and pride in Carroll County's musical legacy.