With a name like Rhythm & Rides Reunion, you’d better believe we’re bringing some incredible live music to this year’s National Rally! As we return to Tennessee hill country–home to the legendary Music City–your 2025 Rally Chairs have stepped up the music lineup like never before.
Wednesday: Kicking Off with Rock
The rally starts strong with Mt. Juliet’s School of Rock, a powerhouse house band of young musicians ready to fire up the crowd. Whether you’re setting up early or just arriving, this high- energy performance will get you moving.
Thursday: A Nashville Takeover
The stage comes alive at 7 p.m. with the Carrie Welling Trio. Welling blends soulful country with Americana roots, channeling the grit of Sheryl Crow, the songwriting depth of Tom Petty, and the raw passion of Stevie Nicks. With a powerful voice and a deep connection to her fans, she’s a rising star you won’t want to miss.
Following Carrie Welling, get ready for ElDorado, a band taking Middle Tennessee by storm with their love of ’90s country. Formed by Joel Ellett and Matt Walker, ElDorado brings a nostalgic, yet fresh energy backed by years of experience to the stage and have performed alongside legends like Ronnie Milsap, Ray Stevens and the Marshall Tucker Band. Expect soaring harmonies, searing guitar solos and a setlist packed with country favorites.
Friday: Legends Pay Tribute & a Rally Favorite Returns
At 7 p.m., the music kicks off with a John Prine Tribute from the Alabama Troubadours. This group of Alabama music legends, including Rick Carter, Stan Foster, Donna Hall and William “Moose” Harrell, comes together to celebrate the music of the great John Prine. Together, their world-class musicianship and deep reverence for Prine’s music promise an unforgettable tribute. Whether you’re a lifelong Prine fan or new to his genius, this is a must-see performance.
At 9 p.m., an MOA Rally legend comes home with the return of Paul Thorn. In 2009, my brother Vance asked me to help him in putting together some live music for his first BMW MOA National Rally in Johnson City, Tennessee. I had recently returned from a trip to California where a good friend had just introduced me to Paul Thorn, and I knew immediately that he was the perfect fit for our event. That year, the Paul Thorn Band opened for the legendary Delbert McClinton, and from the moment he stepped on stage, it was clear we had found something special.
Fast forward 16 years, and Paul Thorn has become one of the most requested and beloved acts in rally history. His blend of blues, rock, gospel and country storytelling captures everything we love about live music–raw energy, humor and soul. From his early days as a boxer (even going toe-to-toe with Roberto Durán) to becoming a masterful songwriter, Thorn’s journey has been nothing short of incredible.
Now, he returns to our rally for the seventh time, bringing his twelfth album, Life Is Just A Vapor, fresh off the press. His signature wit, deep-south storytelling and magnetic stage presence make for an experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a longtime fan or seeing him for the first time, one thing is certain–when Paul Thorn takes the stage, you’re in for an unforgettable night.
Saturday: Rocking the Rally to the Finish
A special solo set by Rick Carter begins at 12 p.m. A founding member of Birmingham’s Telluride and a longtime rally favorite, Rick Carter has a songbook full of stories. Carter’s acoustic performance will be a perfect way to kick off the Rally’s final day.
At 7 p.m., Leilani Kilgore, a Nashville transplant making waves across the rock scene, delivers aggressive, blues-infused rock with ferocious intensity. Recently featured in Guitar World magazine, Kilgore has shared the stage with icons like Buddy Guy, Lita Ford, and 38 Special. Her electrifying presence ensures this will be one of the most talked-about performances of the rally.
Straight from the heart of Nashville, Southbound Crows will bring the rally to a climactic close at 9 p.m. Their mix of gritty guitar riffs, soulful melodies, and high-energy performances captures the timeless spirit of rock ’n’ roll. Whether you’re a classic rock purist or a fan of fresh, raw energy, Southbound Crows will leave you wanting more.
From country and blues to rock and soul, this year’s Rhythm & Rides Reunion is stacked with unforgettable performances. Make sure you’re front and center for a rally soundtrack you won’t want to miss!
Wow, the musical line up sounds awesome! We have always found the music to be our favorite part of the rally and discovered artist that we might not have found otherwise, thank you! Looking forward to it all.