Grammy Award-winning musician, folklorist, and visual artist who taught at the University of Georgia for 30 years. Rosenbaum documented traditional American musicians, winning a Grammy for his "Art of Field Recording Volume I" in 2008, while also contributing to Athens' cultural landscape as a painter.
The cutest girl ever.
Original drummer and co-founder of R.E.M., formed in Athens in 1980. Berry was an integral part of the band until 1997 when health concerns led to his departure. His distinctive drumming contributed significantly to R.E.M.'s signature sound in the Athens music scene.
Grammy-winning music producer and artist born in Athens. Known for his work with Gnarls Barkley, Broken Bells, and producing albums for artists like Adele and The Black Keys.
The 83rd Governor of Georgia, born in Athens on November 2, 1963. Before becoming governor in 2019, Kemp served as Georgia Secretary of State from 2010 to 2018 and as a state senator representing Athens from 2003 to 2007. His political career has deep roots in his hometown.
Former MLB catcher born in Athens, Georgia on February 20, 1984. McCann played 15 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Atlanta Braves. A seven-time All-Star and six-time Silver Slugger Award winner, he won the World Series with the Houston Astros in 2017.
Original member and vocalist of the B-52s, formed in Athens in 1976. Wilson was present at the band's legendary first performance at a house party in Athens on Valentine's Day 1977, which many consider the beginning of Athens' internationally recognized music scene.
NFL Hall of Fame quarterback born in Athens, Georgia on February 3, 1940. Tarkenton played 18 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants, setting numerous records. He attended the University of Georgia where he had a standout college career before his legendary NFL run.
Lead vocalist of the B-52s, formed in Athens in 1976. Known for his distinctive speak-singing style and quirky lyrics, Schneider was instrumental in creating the band's unique sound that emerged from Athens' burgeoning music scene in the late 1970s.
The guy who made this website.
Award-winning actor born in Athens, Georgia on February 19, 1955. Though raised in Michigan, Daniels' connection to Athens remains part of his legacy. His notable roles include performances in "Dumb and Dumber," "The Purple Rose of Cairo," and Emmy-winning work in "The Newsroom."
Co-founder and lead vocalist of Widespread Panic, formed in Athens in 1986. Bell's distinctive vocal style and the band's jam-oriented sound helped diversify Athens' music scene beyond post-punk and alternative rock, cementing the city's reputation as a music hub.
Co-founder and vocalist of the B-52s, one of Athens' most influential bands formed in 1976. Pierson was part of the early Athens music scene that gained international attention, helping establish the city as a music hub. The B-52s are known for hits like "Love Shack" and "Rock Lobster."
Multi-instrumentalist and co-founding member of the B-52s formed in Athens in 1976. Initially the band's drummer, Strickland switched to guitar after Ricky Wilson's passing. His innovative guitar work helped define the band's signature sound.
Academy Award-winning actress born in Athens, Georgia on December 8, 1953. Basinger began her career as a model before transitioning to acting. She won an Oscar for her performance in "L.A. Confidential" (1997) and starred in numerous films including "Batman," "9½ Weeks," and "8 Mile."
Actress and musician born in Athens, Georgia on August 8, 1988. Wiggins is best known for her role as Karen Jackson in the Showtime series "Shameless." She has also appeared in films such as "Rings" and television shows including "The Tomorrow People."
Lead singer and lyricist of R.E.M., one of Athens' most influential rock bands. Known for his distinctive vocal style and artistic vision.
Bassist, multi-instrumentalist and co-founder of R.E.M., formed in Athens in 1980. Mills' melodic basslines and vocal harmonies were essential to the band's sound. He was part of the Athens music community that helped establish the city as an important cultural center.
Co-founder and guitarist of R.E.M., one of Athens' most influential rock bands. Buck met Michael Stipe at Wuxtry Records in Athens where he worked, leading to the formation of R.E.M. in 1980. His distinctive jangly guitar style became a cornerstone of the "Athens sound."
Musician, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with deep roots in the Athens music community. Bramblett has been a fixture in Athens' music scene since the 1970s, collaborating with numerous local artists while also working with major acts like Gregg Allman and Sea Level.
Actor and singer born in Athens, Georgia on February 21, 1979. Burgess is best known for his role as Titus Andromedon in the Netflix series "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," which earned him multiple Emmy nominations. He has also appeared in Broadway productions and films.
Lead vocalist of influential Athens post-punk band Pylon, formed in 1979. Hay's distinctive vocal style helped define the early Athens alternative sound. Pylon was highly regarded by contemporaries like R.E.M. and the B-52s, becoming a cornerstone of Athens' music legacy.
