The Good Side

When most people think of Nashville, Tennessee they think of country music stars, cowboy hats, and honky-tonks. But Nashville is also home to powerhouse rock-n-roll band The Good Side. With their relatable lyrics, rock-n-roll edge, and soulful vibe these fellows have proved that they are a force to be reckoned with.
Comprised of Kyle Blankenship (guitar/lead vocals), Kevin “Red” Blankenship (drums/backing vocals), Tyler Bandy (guitar/backing vocals), and Jarrod Overby (bass guitar), The Good Side did not actually come to be until 2008. However, the band had actually been in the making for several years. Kyle Blankenship explained, “Tyler and myself began playing music together in late 2000, while sophomores in high school. We grew up learning how to play together. We mainly just played hometown events through high school. We did whatever we could. In 2003, we graduated, and Tyler went off to college. We kind of put it on the backburner, though I continued to do acoustic gigs and write. In 2005, I started jamming with my uncle Red just for fun. We ended up throwing a line up together and played some gigs around Tennessee and Kentucky. Skip forward to 2008. Tyler is back home. It was the perfect opportunity for all of us. So Tyler, Red, and myself started throwing around ideas, writing some songs, and we knew we were on to something. We needed a bass player. Jarrod was a close friend of ours that Tyler and I went to high school with, so it was a perfect fit."
In February of 2009 the band released their first album Walk on the Moon. Under the guidance of producer Chet Roberts, The Good Side recorded the EP at Rivergate Studios (owned by Chris Henderson of 3 Doors Down and Bobby Capps of 38 Special) in Hendersonville, Tennessee. On February 27, 2009 the guys marked the release of their album with a show at one of Nashville’s most prestigious music venues, 12th and Porter, where they played to a sold out crowd.
With many different influences including Pearl Jam, The Black Crowes, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Prince, and Matchbox 20, it’s no surprise that the band’s diversity is what sets them apart from the competition. “Each of our songs has a life of their own. I don’t think you can compare us to any one band by saying ‘These guys sound a lot like ___,’” Kyle said. “I think each song is unique which makes our band unique.” With tunes like Pink on the Floor, The Attitude, and Strangers fans of The Good Side are guaranteed to not only find music they can relate to but jams they can rock out to and sing along with.
The Good Side is also known for their dynamic live shows. “We’re just being ourselves onstage,” Kyle stated. “That’s where we’re the most comfortable.” The chemistry between the band members and their fans is electrifying. A reviewer from The Music City Muse said it best when she reported, “So many times you will get a great album and then see the band live only to be disappointed by a deflated performance. Or on the reverse, you will see a band live and then be less than impressed by their album. However, The Good Side truly is the best of both worlds.” The band has also shared the stage with fellow Nashville rock band Framing Hanley and Grammy nominated Tonic.
Even with such an impressive laundry list of accomplishments, The Good Side is just beginning. With a drive to work hard and a desire for their music to reach the masses, the band has learned that perseverance makes all the difference. “You’ve got to stick to your guns,” Kyle said. “And some chick once told me to never give up on something you can’t go a day without thinking about.” Lucky for their fans, The Good Side won’t stop thinking about making music anytime soon!