Velvet Clover Concert/Experience Planned Sept. 21
September 19, 2024
The Most Famous Cover Band You Have Never Known
Rock band Velvet Clover will play favorites from the 70s and 80s at the Capitol Theatre in Greeneville at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21. This concert has a theatrical element – and strong connections to Walters State Community College.
Lead singer Dr. Christopher Morelock, professor of English and head of the college’s English Department, formed the band at the request of Dr. Tony Miksa, president of the college. Miksa wanted a band to perform at the college’s inaugural breakfast.
“He asked me to put together a cover band consisting of people that had Walters State connections and wanted me to do it in a month,” Morelock said. “I wasn’t just worried about the fact that this would be a group who had never performed together, I actually had to find the members.”
Morelock first reached out to Lou McGuire, retired coordinator of academic instruction. McGuire is well known around the area for his musical talents. Morelock then reached out to Chippy McLain, associate professor of English and bluegrass master. McLain plays multiple instruments. He said yes to playing bass. Then, Morelock sought out Clint Williams, coordinator of institutional effectiveness and compliance.
“I had been told that Clint played guitar, and after I heard him was amazed at how gifted he was,” Morelock said. “All that was left was a lead guitarist, and I knew the perfect guy. So, I contacted Mitch Smith, a Walters State alumnus, who completed the band.”
“We knew we all had different backgrounds, but we quickly realized how much we enjoyed playing together. Our first show at Walters State went off so well, that we decided to develop a full show and keep the band together after that initial performance,” Morelock said.
While Morelock loves singing, his other passion is theatre. “Most cover bands play music and that’s it, but we wanted Velvet Clover to go beyond the music and give the audience a bit of theatre as well.” Between songs, Morelock shares the dramatic story of the rise and fall of the most famous cover band you have never known.
Tickets are $15 and may be reserved at https://capitoltheatre.ticketleap.com/. Tickets will also be available at the door.