So, this is kind of a bummer. I’ve had on my mind this summer how much I miss The Tams. Now, the hard-working band is making its way back to Clinton (after a long time away) and I might not make it because I have the dentist that morning, next Thursday.
I am on Round 3 of a 5-Round fight with my teeth and the bridge I have for a false, front tooth. It got knocked out when I was in high school (too long of story to go into here) and a bridge that has served me for several years. Round 2’s “chill medicine” and pain-killers caused me to sleep all day; plus driving under the influence of pain-killer is discouraged, so ... July 27 might not be a day for me in Uptown Clinton. Maybe, on the couch; maybe not on the dance floor.
BUT, I am super-excited that Dianne Wyatt has worked her magic, again, to bring The Tams back. I expect some of the same crowd who danced to them recently in Mauldin could be back in Clinton - the best beach-music town that is NOT on the coast.
If towns need an identity, Clinton could do worse than being known for musical large-times and trains. We even had a train “disrupt” the 246th National Guard Band at the most recent Town Rhythms. Band know (or we should tell them) to just have a train song in their sets - we are going to have a train rumble past The Depot at some point in the evening.
The Tams’ set is planned for 7 to 10 p.m. - bring your lawn chair - and the first set will feature one of the best rock and funk bands anywhere. The guys in their suits and tams (below) take the stage next and I defy you not to dance, or at least tap your feet. I know “beach music” is not for everyone, but make the world go away for a few hours and just ENJOY the show. I’ll be with you in spirit (maybe in body, who knows).
In any event, a ton of thanks goes to the City of Clinton for maintaining Town Rhythms, and giving us a summer’s worth of entainment in our small corner of the world.
Vic MacDonald is Editor of The Clinton Chronicle. In June, 2025, he will observe his 50th year in community journalism. Reach him at 864-833-1900.
