Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, renowned for its majestic mountains, vibrant music scene,
and legendary moonshine tales, Johnson County unveils the Copperhead Road Landmark and Music Fest over Memorial Day Weekend.
Inspired by Steve Earle's iconic country rock anthem, "Copperhead Road," after its designation as a Tennessee state song last year, the landmark pays homage to the song's local roots. Centered around a customized 1949 Dodge Sedan adorned with a mural by Bluegrass star Tim White, the landmark will be officially unveiled on Friday, May 24th, 2024, at 12:30 PM at the Watauga Lake Winery in Butler. The unveiling is free and open to the general public. A private reception for invited guests, sponsored by Doe Valley Farm, follows at 1:30 PM at the Winery.
About the Artist
Tim White is a true renaissance man, a consummate artist in every sense of the word. A native of Central Appalachia and a lifelong Tennessee resident, White remains an integral influence in preserving the unique sights and sounds of our region.
Beyond his own talents as a gifted artist and performer, White also hosts a weekly syndicated radio program that airs on over 70 stations across the eastern United States. He is additionally the host of the award-winning concert series, “Song of the Mountains” which airs on over 190 PBS outlets across America. See more of Tim White’s murals on State Street in Bristol, VA-TN, and in downtown Marion, Virginia.
The Copperhead Road Landmark mural exemplifies his unique interpretation of Johnson County’s moonshine legends, where his love of art and music converge.
“When I was asked to be involved with the ‘Copperhead Road’ project I gladly accepted. When I am not picking and singing music or hosting the television show, ‘Song of the Mountains’ in Marion, VA, I am painting murals and hand lettering signs at my sign shop in Blountville, TN. Being commissioned to hand-paint a mural on the side of a vintage 1949 Dodge with suicide back doors! What gets better than that for an ‘old school’ sign man? It was a learning experience for me as well. I had no idea the Steve Earle song ‘Copperhead Road’ was so connected to our region in Johnson County, TN. The project is the type of work I love to do. Painting the car graphics and being invited to perform as well at the dedication of the ‘Copperhead Road’ park is an honor. I know that people will come to Johnson County to see ‘Copperhead Road’ and experience a very unique part of our beloved region. Thanks to everyone who made this happen.”
– Tim White, Tim White Sign Company and Executive Coordinator-Song of the Mountains