Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1474185
FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE. These traditional vows carry a different tune when it comes to Macon and our music. We strive to hear and harmonize with our soulful, southern, storied sounds. We often find that common ground is engraved in the chords, but the genres and the venues and the conversations sometimes vary. Many musicians you'll become instant fans of got their start singing for those in the pews. While there feels like there is a church on every corner, Macon's sanctuary of southern rock, Historic Grant's Lounge, is now back in the limelight after respectful renovations that pay homage to those who have played the hallowed halls. JARRED ANDREWS Jarred Andrews has called Macon home his whole life. He was raised knowing the importance of family and music and just how much they can intertwine. Serenaded through childhood and adulthood by his soulful family legacy as one of the grandsons of Otis Redding himself, Andrews' style and passion for strumming a guitar is electrifying. His start in music is like a wall of fame, as it is a reflection of those around him. "Everyone and everything around me was music-related growing up, so I knew I wanted to give it a try," Andrews said. "Macon has a lot of musical history and royalty from Otis Redding, the Allman Brothers and Little Richard; I'm so happy my city birthed these amazing acts." He finds peace when he's playing his guitar. "I have been playing for 10-plus years now, and it is something I do daily. It's like therapy, so I'm usually always with a guitar," he said. "I've also been producing a lot more, so I'm excited to learn and pick up new things." His connection to Macon music notoriety is noteworthy, but look to Andrews to respectfully carry on the legacy in his own dapper fashion. KIMBERLY KELSEY EPPS Kimberly Kelsey Epps has been a Maconite since 1994. She's been gracing the stage for a while now, three decades in fact, as her musical journey began in church with her mom at the age of three. "Things really cranked up though once I got to Macon and I started singing professionally," she said. "I did lots of gigs for various community organizations and local events, and eventually got some recognition by industry leaders in the Atlanta area." Epps has starred in numerous musical theater productions and is an award- winning performer. She's even written and recorded with the likes of Randy Jackson, Tim and Bob, Daryll Simmons and High Rock Entertainment group, among others. Epps helps bring arts education to the children of this community through her work as the Center Director for the Otis Redding Center for the Arts. She paid homage to the music forebearers who have come before her while also tipping her hat at the current music and arts scene. "We have such an amazing pool of talent in this community, and it is so important that we continue to cultivate that talent to bring a whole new crop of artists and creatives to the forefront of the music industry," she said. As a powerful performer, Epps leaves it all on the stage and does so with style, boldness and relatability. Just wait until you hear her sing. THE BOZWELLS Meet the Boswells, who go by The Bozwellz. The married duo can win over any audience, and they frequently do, with vivacious performances at various corporate events across the country. They met when Shana was hosting an KIMBERLY KELSEY EPPS AND JARRED ANDREWS 102 maconmagazine.com | JUNE/JULY 2022