Local band wins competition, opprotunity to open for country star
Friday, Apr 18 2008, 2:56 pm

David Allen
SHELBY - They came. They saw. They beat out 70 other music groups to win 20 hours of professional studio time and the opportunity to open for country singer Gary Allan.

Rocky Yelton and the Hired Guns, a local country and southern rock group, recently won the Talent Shakedown Battle for Food Lion Speed Street, a battle of the bands contest.

One by one, they rocked past the competition. Wednesday night, Yelton and crew took the "Buck Wild" stage in Charlotte and strummed their way to the title.

"Not to sound bold, but we beat out everybody," joked Boiling Springs resident Johnny McKinney, the band's lead guitarist. "It's one of my biggest accomplishments."

The contest started more than two weeks ago, McKinney said. Shortly after Yelton sent in the demo packet, the band found out they were selected as one of 16 final groups from more than 70 entrants.

The rest is history.

McKinney remained humble despite the accomplishment.

"I don't look at myself like a rock star," he said, laughing. "I just see myself as a guy who's very fortunate and very blessed being able to do the things I've been able to do."

Along with the studio time and opening for Allan, the band won $1,500 and a vacation package.

Rocky Yelton and the Hired Guns

Rocky Yelton, vocals
Johnny McKinney, lead guitar
Ray Alley, bass
Clint Turner, drums
Tommy Hawkins, acoustic guitar

Great job guys, maybe we will see them climb the charts someday!

OK.... does that mean like opening one time at one place or like OPENING ON TOUR?

thx for posting

I know they will be at Charlotte NC in May. They are already listed on that one. All of those guys live around here. I'll have to check them out to see how good they are? I'll let you all know.

i searched them on YT and they sound pretty cool!! thats so exciting for them!

I think it is AWESOME for an artist such as our Gary to give these guy's such an opportunity WTG Gary & good luck to the winners!

That is great news for that band. To be opening for Gary has got to be the best. Congrats to them for winning that contest.