Drivin' N' Cryin' Celebrates 40 Years of Southern Rock at Variety Playhouse

The Atlanta icons bring their twang-infused, hard-edged sound to their hometown venue.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:00am

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Drivin' N' Cryin', the Atlanta-based Southern rock band, is celebrating 40 years since their first show at the 688 Club in 1985. The band, consisting of founding members Kevn Kinney, Tim Nielsen, and longtime drummer Dave V Johnson, will be performing at the Variety Playhouse in their hometown, promising a set list that dives deep into their extensive catalog of hits and fan favorites.

Why it matters

Drivin' N' Cryin' has become an integral part of Atlanta's music scene, surviving the pressures of fame, lineup changes, and a shifting musical landscape. Their performance at the Variety Playhouse, a beloved local venue, is a testament to their enduring legacy and the band's continued relevance in the Southern rock genre.

The details

The band's setlist is expected to include their signature song "Straight to Hell" as well as a mix of solo tracks from Kinney and deep cuts from their extensive discography. The opening act, Laid Back Country Picker, is described as a pounding, scuzzy, rust-colored boogie that pays homage to classic 1970s rock riffs.

  • Drivin' N' Cryin' played their first show at Atlanta's 688 Club in 1985.
  • The band will be performing at the Variety Playhouse on March 13, 2026.

The players

Drivin' N' Cryin'

An Atlanta-based Southern rock band that has been active since 1985, known for their twang-infused, hard-edged sound and extensive catalog of hits and fan favorites.

Kevn Kinney

The founding member and lead singer of Drivin' N' Cryin', known for his songwriting and vocal abilities.

Tim Nielsen

The founding member and bassist of Drivin' N' Cryin', who has been with the band since its inception.

Dave V Johnson

The longtime drummer of Drivin' N' Cryin', who has been with the band for many years.

Laid Back Country Picker

The opening act for Drivin' N' Cryin' at the Variety Playhouse, known for their pounding, scuzzy, rust-colored boogie that pays homage to classic 1970s rock riffs.

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The takeaway

Drivin' N' Cryin's performance at the Variety Playhouse is a celebration of their enduring legacy as one of Atlanta's most iconic Southern rock bands, showcasing their ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to their roots and continuing to captivate audiences with their signature sound.