Kentucky Headhunters

The Kentucky Headhunters, originating from Edmonton, Kentucky, began their professional music journey in 1968 as Itchy Brother. The initial lineup included Richard Young on rhythm guitar, Fred Young on drums, Anthony Kenney on bass guitar, and Greg Martin on lead guitar. This early iteration of the band achieved regional success in Kentucky during the 1970s, even releasing a single titled “Shotgun Effie” in 1973. Despite nearly signing with Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song Records in 1980, the label’s closure following John Bonham’s death prevented a full album release. Itchy Brother disbanded in 1982, with members pursuing individual music careers or other ventures, gaining experience in songwriting and as backing musicians for artists like Sylvia and Ronnie McDowell.

In 1986, Martin reunited with the Young brothers, and with the addition of brothers Ricky Lee Phelps on lead vocals and Doug Phelps on bass guitar, the group reformed as The Kentucky Headhunters. They honed their unique blend of honky-tonk, blues, and Southern rock, which they had been cultivating at Mama Effie’s Practice House for years. Their sound caught the attention of Harold Shedd at Mercury Records, leading to the release of their debut album, “Pickin’ on Nashville,” in 1989. This album marked a significant turning point, producing four Top 40 country singles, including “Walk Softly on This Heart of Mine” and their highest-charting single, “Oh Lonesome Me,” which reached number eight on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The album’s success earned them a Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1990, an Academy of Country Music award, and two Country Music Association awards for Album of the Year and Vocal Group of the Year, achieving double-platinum certification for selling two million copies.

Over their career, The Kentucky Headhunters have released ten studio albums, three compilations, and twenty-three singles. Though they experienced lineup changes and departures from major labels, particularly after their second album “Electric Barnyard” in 1991, they continued to produce music, collaborate with artists like Johnnie Johnson, and tour extensively. Doug Phelps rejoined the band in 1995, and the band has consistently released new material, including “That’s A Fact, Jack!” in 2021. Their enduring presence in the music scene is marked by their authentic sound and dedication to performing, culminating in their debut on the Grand Ole Opry in December 2021, and continuing to tour with their characteristic blend of musical styles.