John Nix and Country Cousins at Old Courthouse

Who remembers when traffic was stopped on the square in Blairsville for square dances? Who remembers when dances were held every Saturday night at John Cable's "Opry in the Wildwood" out on the Young Harris Highway? Who remembers attending square dances at the old pavilion at Lake Winfield Scott? Anyone who has lived here for any period of time in the past fifty years, or more, remembers that on most occasions where music was played in this area of north Georgia, the musicians of choice were usually The Nix Brothers and The Country Cousins.

The Country Cousins are unquestionably the longest playing, active band in Union County. People tell their grandchildren about going to dances when they were young, and The Country Cousins were playing. For over fifty years, the Country Cousins have been entertaining folks at square dances, concerts, and other events throughout north Georgia, western North Carolina, and eastern Tennessee.

The core of the Country Cousins has always consisted of the Nix brothers, John and Clayton. Their brother, Cranford, went away to Michigan where he made a name for himself in music at a very young age, but has always come home to perform with the clan whenever he could. .

Being from a long line of pioneer families in the area, and each branch, seemingly, inclined toward music, it has only been natural that the supporting musicians who have played with the band are related through blood or marriage. Hence, the Name, "Country Cousins."

Time has taken its toll on the family, and John is the only one of the Nix brothers who still performs. John is like a Timex watch; he just keeps on ticking. When most people would be thinking of giving up playing, he starts a new gig playing with the Collins Brothers in the Blairsville Bluegrass Band.

An interesting aspect of a Country Cousins performance is that it is never known who might be on a show. With so many kinfolk and others who have played with them over the years, they can always be expected to have unexpected guests show up to play with them. One thing is certain: when John Nix walks onto the stage you can expect to hear good music. You are also experiencing a beloved part of Union County History.

The Country Cousins concert will begin in the refurbished courtroom of The Old Courthouse on the Square in Blairsville at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 12.

There is no admission charge to the concerts presented in The Old Courthouse by the Union County Historical Society. The musicians donate their time and talents. Voluntary contributions to the restoration and maintenance fund of The Old Courthouse are welcomed and appreciated.