Sounds of the Mountains: Colby T. Helms & The Virginia Creepers

Hear Colby T. Helms in concert at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, January 25, at the Willingham Theater in Yadkinville. This performance is the finale of the annual Sounds of the Mountains series hosted in partnership by the Blue Ridge Music Center and Yadkin Arts Council.

At the bottom of the Southwest Virginia foothills half-a-mile from the nearest neighbor, Colby Helms resides in an “underground house” built by his late father. He hunts and takes care of his mom. He also pens the kind of raw and real country music that cuts to the bone. At 12 years old, Colby endured the loss of his dad due to cancer. Beset by sadness and loneliness, he turned to music. He taught himself guitar, banjo, and mandolin by watching local performers and YouTube videos. He amassed a growing record collection, combing through the stacks at flea markets and browsing eBay. Joined by his band The Virginia Creepers, he cut his teeth with countless gigs around the area. He also shared a series of arresting D.I.Y. performance videos on YouTube, including “Smoke and Flames.” With starkly honest songwriting and a sharp angular twang to his vocals, he struck a dynamic balance between country storytelling, blue grass energy, and blues power. After signing to Photo Finish Records, he introduced himself with a series of 2023 singles and his forthcoming debut album.

Tickets are $20.

Tickets