Forrest McCurren, Grits & Greens, and Joe Johnson

Forrest McCurren comes from the heart of the heartland, where the foothills of the Ozarks meet the Big Muddy: The Middle-of-Missouri. Blazing his own trail while stylistically tipping his hat to the songwriting giants of the past, McCurren wields the magic of lyricism to cast a light on the many intricacies of everyday life set against vignettes of Middle America. Tackling topics such as: wise words from waitresses, heartbroken high school football standouts, and tattooed trailer park lovers, McCurren writes songs for good people that got bad grades in school, are drunk on dreams, and still trying to figure out if life is sour or sweet.

Grits and Greens: Ryann and Jesse have spent the last few years fine tuning their on-stage chemistry as husband and wife at venues in Colorado, Mississippi, and all points in between. Once settled in Hattiesburg, MS in 2021, Grits & Greens was born.

Frontwoman Ryann McGhee shines with commanding guitar licks and a powerful, gritty voice that is both sweet enough for the gospel and rough enough for the blues. Jesse McGhee’s soulful slide guitar work is tastefully characterized by open tunings and melodic riffs. Kenny Paul Mann lays the foundation with driving bass lines rooted in country and funk rhythms. Jackson Bounds ties it all together with an explosive, yet intuitive, rock and roll percussion style.

Together, the group offers a unique experience to listeners with a style that is best described as Southern rock with a soulful and jam-heavy delivery. But the band’s four part vocal harmony and lyrics are what truly set them apart; sharing stories that are personal, playful, and perfectly satirical.
The obvious love that the band has for each other, as well as playing music, is beautifully exemplified by their warm stage presence and tight performances. This bond keeps their performances fresh and ever-exploratory, always leaving the listeners wanting more.