Discover notable Athenians, local legends, and community figures who shape the city.
№ 001Grammy 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.
№ 002Cutie pie.
№ 003Long-time manager of R.E.M. and influential figure in Athens music and culture. After meeting the band while teaching law at UGA, Downs became their manager in 1981 and guided their career through international success. He remains active in Athens as an education advocate, community leader, and advisor to emerging musicians.
№ 004Original 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.
№ 005Grammy-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.
№ 006The 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.
№ 007Former 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.
№ 008Acclaimed pianist and keyboardist with strong ties to Athens. While best known for his work with The Rolling Stones and The Allman Brothers Band, Leavell has collaborated with numerous Athens musicians and performs regularly in the city. Beyond music, he's a respected environmental activist and tree farmer.
№ 009Original 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.
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