Spotlight on Michael Gray: Chattanooga's River City Sessions Founder and Appalachian Music Enthusiast
Michael Gray, a Morristown, TN native—whom he affectionately calls “the country of East Tennessee”—hails from a family of musicians and storytellers. Raised singing in church alongside his community, he immersed himself in country and gospel music, where neighbors gathered to share songs and fellowship.
In 1984, Michael relocated to Chattanooga for work and later launched his own business. Throughout his career, he dreamed of recreating those cherished Sunday afternoons of storytelling, music, and simple country joys. In 2012, after two decades of envisioning, he launched the River City Sessions, a monthly variety show showcasing local musicians, storytellers, and poets.
Held on the second Thursday of each month at the Granfalloon from 7-9 p.m., the sessions are also broadcast on WUTC the fourth Sunday at 8 p.m. Don't miss the annual Holiday show on Thursday, December 14—admission is $5, doors open at 7:00 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Expect songs, stories, laughter, and plenty of holiday cheer!
We sat down with Michael to discuss his musical roots, the origins of River City Sessions, and this year's Holiday show.
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How did you get into music and storytelling?
I took voice and piano lessons as a child and led a church choir. I've dabbled with various instruments over the years—my grandfather, who traveled with a tent preacher, taught me guitar. Now I'm tackling the banjo, along with dulcimer and other stringed instruments. My skills are 'amateurish' compared to our River City Sessions performers, but I can carry a tune.
Storytelling started early, thanks to my grandfathers swapping tales. Traditional Appalachian music is storytelling set to melody—many songs trace back to Ireland and Scotland. Music evokes personal memories; think of your favorite song and how it resonates.
I'm currently recording a CD blending stories and music, aiming for release in the next three to six months.
How did River City Sessions begin?
It launched in 2012 as 'Word Fest,' a biannual event at The Camp House with friends from local jams and storytellers. An offer for a larger venue led me to WUTC for broadcast support—they agreed if we went monthly. Now it's a showcase for local and emerging artists, storytellers, and poets. The mix keeps it fresh. We've hosted at The Camp House (nearly three years), Granfalloon, Sewanee, Ketner's Mill, Hunter Museum of American Art, and Lula Lake Land Trust.
Tell us about the upcoming Holiday show.
Regular shows feature one or two acts with 30 minutes each. The Holiday edition reunites four to five past performers for their favorite Christmas songs—it's a festive party with costumes and occasional special guests. This year's lineup:
- Cannon Hunt – A crowd favorite since high school, recommended by Randy Steele. He's now a Chattanooga staple and RCS recommender.
- Grace Campbell – Singer-songwriter since age four, influenced by church choirs. Self-taught guitarist since 2014, plays with family band August385, and studies at Sewanee: The University of the South.
- Derek Martin – Newly appointed engagement manager at The Camp House and talented singer-songwriter. He's shone at RCS and Chattanooga House Shows with originals and covers showcasing his vocal range.
- Joylene Kara – New to Chattanooga with an acoustic folk vibe, rock band experience, and versatile voice. Welcome her to the scene!
How would you describe Tennessee music?
Tennessee's sound is diverse. River City Sessions began with Appalachian traditions, evolving to broader Tennessee styles. Influences span bluegrass (from old-time music), delta blues, jazz (New Orleans to Chicago), plus Nashville (140 miles northwest) and Bristol (220 miles northeast). Westward, delta blues lead to Beale Street—it's all traditional.
Does Chattanooga have a distinct sound?
Yes—strong bluegrass with over 60 monthly jams, Bessie Smith-era blues on 9th Street, and gospel roots everywhere. Most musicians learned in church.
What's your favorite thing about Chattanooga?
I love the growth, influx of people, and constant discoveries. It's a model growing city. Plus, unbeatable outdoor access: hiking, kayaking, fly fishing, camping—all within an hour.
Any special Christmas traditions?
I head to upper East Tennessee for family time, smoking ham or turkey—a 30-year habit now passed to my son. We share stories Christmas afternoon, with neighbors often joining impromptu.
Photo credit: David Andrews Photography
