Honky tonk country-rockers River County began in the group's hometown of Whiteland, IN, at a high-school talent show. Derek Wylie (lead singer), Chris Presley (lead and rhythm guitar/background vocals), and Jake Hehman (keyboards) won that talent show, and River County have been at it ever since, playing graduation parties, talent shows, and hog roasts before moving up to clubs, county fairs, and opening slots with national acts touring through the state. Along the way, River County developed a high-energy rock and country sound that was equal parts Charlie Daniels, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rascal Flatts, and Creedence Clearwater Revival, with a touch of Tony Joe White thrown in for good measure. The group recorded its debut album, Rockin' the Country, in Nashville with producer Terry Wendt and released it in 2008. ~ Steve Leggett