Who is Parmalee?

Do you know the mythology behind a Phoenix? It is a long-lived bird that obtains new life by arising from the ashes. That is what comes to mind for me when I think about the country band Parmalee and what this talented band has over come to get to where they are.

Cain's Ballroom, Jan. 2015

Parmalee is a four man, family band, made up of Matt Thomas (lead vocalist), his brother Scott Thomas (drums/bass), their cousin Barry Knox (bass/drums), and their brother from another mother Josh McSwain (guitar & keys). This gifted four some is North Carolina born and bred. All four men grew up on music. In fact, they started out performing with their fathers and uncle. In 2001, at Corrigans, a local venue, near East Carolina University where they went to school, Parmalee was officially born.

Left 2 Right: Matt, Scott, Barry, Josh

Do you know were this band came up with their name? Let me tell you. These proud NC natives stayed connected with their roots and named the band after the town in which Parmalee practiced every Tuesday and Thursday (according to their bio) Parmele, NC. The guys toured all over including New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta ultimately discovering they needed to be in Nashville. In 2010, the band's journey was altered amidst a terrible tragedy. Scott was shot during an attempted robbery after a show. He was in a coma for 10 days and hospitalized for over a month. In true Phoenix fashion, they rose from what most would have considered the ashes of a promising career. In February 2011, the band, Scott included, performed a showcase that landed a record deal.

Tulsa State Fair, Oct. 2015

Five years later, this incredible band, that is the epitome of never give up on your dreams, has been nominated for an ACM award for New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year! They have a debut album out titled Feels Like Carolina. They have had three consecutive top 10 hits, including #1 hit "Carolina." In addition to countless appearances on their own across the country, they have also toured with both Jake Owen and Brad Paisley. In fact, they are currently back out on the road, as well as, spending days off in the studio working on what is sure to be a steller follow up to Feels Like Carolina. 

You can keep up with the band on several social media platforms including FB, Twitter (@parmalee), Instagram (@parmaleemusic), and even SnapChat (parmaleemusic). Check out their website for more info on tour dates  http://www.parmalee.com/tour/