Country Classics Band Country Band from Elizabeth City, NC

Mercer Long - Lead Guitar and vocals: Mercer is a founding member of the Country Classics Band. Born and raised in Weeksville, NC. Mercer has recorded under the name of Buddy Gretsch on C.M.C. Records out of Charlotte, NC, at Arthur "Guitar Boogie" Smith Studio. Mercer brings 62 years of playing experience to the Country Classic Band. Mercer plays all of Merle Haggard's music. All of Mercer's playing career was performed in Norfolk, VA with groups such as Willie Taylor and the Bandits, Wells Fargo Express, Outlaw Band, Hog's Breath Band, Citations Band, Charlie Danny Bailey out of WWVA, Wheeling West Virginia. Mercer's recording, that went to number one on the charts was promoted by his managers, Ed and Pat Kennedy of Ocean City, Maryland. John Anderson – Guitar and Vocals: Born in Fort Benning, GA, (his father was in the Army) John is a founding member of the Country Classics Band. His musical career started when his Dad gave him his old guitar at the age of 10. After Rocking and Rolling thru the 60's his interest turned to Country and then Bluegrass music. John credits his excellent rhythm guitar playing to several years playing and working with a Southampton County Virginia Band named "The Atkins Brothers Bluegrass Band." He has been hooked on country and bluegrass music ever since. John brings 50 years experience to the group. He was raised in Norfolk and Franklin, VA. Jerry Long – Drummer: Jerry brings 40 years of drumming experience to the band. Jerry is a founding member of the Country Classics Band. Born in Elizabeth City, NC, Jerry started playing at the age of 9 years old and has been playing with his Father most of the time. Jerry loves country, gospel and bluegrass music which he has played most of his life. Rich Bohr - Bass: An Appalachian Mountain boy from Orwin, Pennsylvania. Rich brings 55 years experience to the band and provides a full bottom line sound with his rock solid bass playing. Rich brings experience from bluegrass bands such as New Dominion Bluegrass, Highway 99 and Low Profile. His skill set can only be derived from many years on the road playing in front of various country and bluegrass audiences. Rich is a respected player who supports Country and Bluegrass music at all levels. "Country and Bluegrass Music must be played," are words to live by for Rich and you will hear that in his fine bass playing.