In the spring of 1994 several musicians came together in an informal jam session that would later evolve into the country group known as “The River”, which is based in Valdosta, GA. Over the years, the band has experienced tremendous growth and success on a regional level. As a result, the band has established an outstanding fan base as an unsigned artist. They have shared the stage with many national acts and have, themselves, headlined numerous concerts, festivals, and events. They have performed at countless college campuses, clubs, private events, corporate events, and other various venues throughout the southeast. The band has set financial and door records for numerous clubs throughout their market area.

In 1999 “The River” independently released their debut CD titled “Reflection”. Though only available through local distribution and performances, The River sold thousands of units. The major south GA and north FL radio stations offered incredible support by means of frequent air-play, on-air interviews, and recognition, which has helped make “The River” a household name throughout their market area. Shortly after the release of their debut CD, the band signed a management agreement with Neostar Sports & Entertainment CEO, Ralph Stringer, who is also former quarterback, Dan Marino’s agent. Ralph introduced the band to Nashville producers, Buddy Cannon and Norro Wilson. In July 2000 Buddy and Norro produced a four-song demo and arranged a showcase in Nashville. As a result, several major labels expressed an interest in the band, but felt the lead vocal did not fit what they were looking for. Though nothing would develop, “The River” would continue their pursuit. About a year and a half later, lead singer, Todd Griffin, left the band to pursue a career outside of music. Realizing the setback, the band pulled together and committed to finding his replacement. As a result, they booked no more performances and escaped from the public eye for a while. After approximately eight months of searching the southeast, in 2002 the band finally found the lead singer and front-man they had long looked for; this being, Darrin Robbins, from Atlanta, GA. The chemistry, look, talent, goals, etc. matched perfectly. Not only could he sing, he was a captivating entertainer. The fan response was immediately incredible. The new team of “The River” has been said by many to be “EXPLOSIVE”.

Diversity is one word that can be used to describe The River’s live show, which consists of a unique blend of new country, traditional country, southern rock, gospel, rock, and blues. The band promotes a young image, attracting the young audience, while maintaining the professionalism expected by the older audience. Simply put, “The River” strives to entertain and attract audiences of all ages and influences with “good-time”, fun, and high-energy performances.

What drives this continued explosion of popularity is The River’s consistent commitments to enhancing their sound, originality, performance, and show in effort to increasingly please the audience and fans. The band continues to work toward becoming a major force in today’s country music industry.

In January 2004 The River independently released their new CD titled “Knee Deep”. Regional radio has, again, provided tremendous support and the response has been outstanding.

“….Like we’ve been saying all along…. The rest of the country is about to find out…The River is Great!!!….These boys have what it takes to be huge…Strong harmonies, good hooks, great looks… We know you are going to be at the top of the country charts soon”… Jim Morgan, Morgan in the Morning Show, WAAC 93




The River Has Shared The Stage With Recording Artists Such As:

Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney(2), Kenny Rodgers, Faith Hill, Leanne Womack, Andy Griggs, John Berry, Alabama, George Jones, Trace Adkins, John Michael Montgomery Montgomery Gentry (3),The Charlie Daniels Band, Mark Wills (3), Sawyer Brown, The Drifters, The Marshall Tucker Band(2),LeAnne Rimes, T. Graham Brown, Rhett Akins, Lee Roy Parnell (2), Tower of Power, BR5-49, Lonestar, Confederate Railroad, Willie Nelson, Steve Wariner, Martina McBride, Emerson Drive, Hank Williams Jr., Pat Green, Cowboy Troy, Big and Rich, Sugarland, Diamond Rio and Blue County.



Other Highlights Include:

· Awarded as one of five national finalists in the 8th Annual Jim Beam Country Band Search. Performed at The Wildhorse Saloon, Nashville TN

· Winner of the Suwannee River Band Competition. Awarded as unsigned artist to perform at the Suwannee River Jam, the south’s largest country music festival. Live Oak, FL.

· Winner of the 2000 Country Under the Stars Band Competition. Opened 10th Annual Country by the Sea Music Festival. Jekyll Island, GA.

· Performed National Anthem for Busch Series Bellsouth Mobility 320. Nashville, Tennessee.

· Performed at Nabisco Inc. customer appreciation celebration for Wal-Mart Chief Executive Officer and other Wal-Mart and Nabisco executives. Bentonville, Arkansas.

· Performed at Pepsi 400 celebration for NASCAR Winston Cup racing team, First Plus, owned by Bill Elliott and former NFL quarterback, Dan Marino.

· Headlined – Georgia/ Florida football pre-game celebration (a.k.a. World’s Largest Cocktail Party) hosted by the University of Georgia Alumni Assoc. Metropolitan Park, Jacksonville, Florida (1998 –2004 & upcoming 2005)

· Music video for The Children's Miracle Network Telethon, sponsored by Goody's Inc. (2004)

The River would like to thank the following for all their years of continual support: