An annual concert benefiting First Tee of Augusta hit the stage at Evans Town Center on Tuesday night, bringing out an enthusiastic crowd in support of the cause.
First Tee is a golf-centered youth development organization of which Drive For Show, Rock Fore! Dough has been able to provide over $1.8 million dollars since it began 21 years ago.
This year’s Rock Fore! Dough lineup included musicians Brett Young, Russell Dickerson, Channing Wilson and DJ Rock along with opening performances by The Mason Jars.
Musicians behind the scenes
“I think one of the bigger or more noble causes is in regards to children,” said Young, referencing the benefit to First Tee. “It feels good to do something you love and know that other people are benefiting from it.”
Channing Wilson, a home-grown Georgia native, said that he was glad to be back in the area where he was born. “To be here for this show today is uh, it’s just, it’s amazing. It’s an amazing feeling,” he said.
“It’s springtime in Georgia, it’s a great time to get out, and the fish are biting, and we’re here, you know?” added the country singer/songwriter. “We’re here to listen to music. I’m just grateful for the opportunity I get…it means a whole lot to get to come to Augusta.”
In the crowd
In the audience, friends Anna Peyton and Annesha Chakraborty said they share a bond over country music.
“We have a lot of friends who don’t really listen to country, but she’s like, one of the few,” said Chakraborty about Peyton.
The pair said they were most excited to see Brett Young, hoping to hear him perform his 2017 song “Like I Loved You.”
Page Hughes and Johnny Rabun were attending together for the second year in a row.
“I came last year for the first time and had a great time, so we wanted to come again,” said Hughes.
She added that she thinks the concert’s goal of supporting First Tee is “wonderful.”
“I love golf, and I think it’s great to try to raise money to get more younger people involved,” said Hughes.
