RONNIE HAMMOND
Atlanta Rhythm Section

The Atlanta Rhythm Section was assembled from a group of Atlanta-based session hitmakers, remnanets from The Candymen, Roy Orbison's band, and the Classics IV in 1970. Slicker and more melodic than most Southern rock bands of the genre, ARS' music was characterized by a glossy production sheen. The band's onstop touring helped to create a huge following. The Original ARS members were: Ronnie Hammond (Lead Vocals), Dean Daughtry (Keyboards), J.R. Cobb (Rhythm Guitar), Barry Bailey (Lead Guitar), Robert Nix (Drums), and Paul Goddard (Bass Guitar). The band produced 3 albums between 1972 and 1977 including Back Up Against the Wall and Third Annual Pipe Dream, , and Dog Days.

Early in 1977, the single "So Into You" became the band's breakthrough, reaching the US Top 10, (#7 pop, #11 easy listening), so that the album from which it came, A Rock And Roll Alternative soared to #11 and went Platinum. This success was followed in the late 70’s and early 80’s the band recorded a string of great hits and incredible albums such as "Champagne Jam" and "Large Time" from Champagne Jam, "Imaginary Lover," "Georgia Rhythm," and "Doraville" from Are You Ready, "Do it Or Die" from Underdog. The Atlanta Rhythm Section toured all over the country, and also toured Japan, Belgium, England, and was invited to the White House (by then President and Georgia native, Jimmy Carter).