Masters Week Blitz
- Moose
- Apr 16
- 9 min read
AMP IS BACK!!!
This year we tried something new and kicked it off with a full week of music for the coveted Masters Week! Despite being from Florida and growing up around golf, I'm not sure if I've lived where there was a giant PGA tournament, so I don't know if anyone else has A WEEK - but in the CSRA, it's a thing.
So why not celebrate with a full week of music?
And it went pretty awesome, despite an unfortunate rainout for the opener with The Experiment. If we are lucky, we will squeeze them in later in the season.
The week started with The Mad Sound Scientist and myself making a visit with Tonya at The Morning Mix. The morning teased of potential concert weather in the evening, but it was short lived - as you can see in the lower third on the thumbnail.
Funny enough, I needed to do a little homework for the interview to refresh myself on some points. For one, it started in 2017. Later that evening, I was perusing old photos to see if I had any of Prettier than Matt when they opened for Kenny's CD release party - back in 2017. I put 2 and 2 together and realized that Kenny and Prettier than Matt closed out the first Amp the Alley season, which was a single month. The party was such a success that it inspired local business owners to come together and continue bringing high-energy entertainment to Downtown Aiken working in tandem with the new Alley renovations and mingling-friendly city ordinances. It is my official stance that the performance of The Kenny George Band and his Friends cemented what would become a legacy partnership of live music and local business.
This is our 8th season of Amp the Alley, made possible by Bud Light and our local businesses. What started with a couple of businesses in The Alley putting on a couple of shows, has grown into one of the most anticipated events in Aiken. We have some exciting new partners this year, and I hope you get a chance to visit with them and all they contribute to the uniqueness that is Aiken.
Meet the New 2025 Local Partners
Amp the Alley is thrilled to welcome Downtown Hydration & Wellness as a new sponsor this season!
Led by Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner Natasha Davis, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, Downtown Hydration is on a mission to help the Aiken community restore, maintain, and optimize their health. Whether you're exploring holistic wellness, seeking support for existing conditions, or just looking for that extra boost to look and feel your best, Natasha brings expertise, compassion, and a whole-body approach to care.
Amp is all about community, and we’re proud to be partnered with a business just as committed to helping people thrive. Here’s to wellness, music, and making Thursday nights even better—together!
Amp the Alley proudly welcomes REFT Equipment Company to the 2025 sponsor lineup!
Known for their unbeatable service and dedication to quality, REFT Equipment Company has become a trusted partner for outdoor equipment across Aiken and beyond. From expert guidance on the right tools to flexible financing and full-service maintenance, their team is committed to supporting customers long after the sale is made.
Whether it’s a backyard project or a major job site, REFT’s knowledgeable staff ensures every customer finds the perfect fit for their needs and budget. Their service department backs it all up with reliable repairs and routine maintenance that keep equipment running strong.
Amp the Alley is honored to partner with a company that values long-term relationships and community support. With REFT Equipment on board, we're not just celebrating music—we're celebrating the folks who help our community get the job done right. They have been in The Alley during our first week with all sorts of cool toys: Coolers, Chainsaws, Backpack Blowers, Weedeaters, Zero Turns, and Side by Sides.
Amp is all about winning, and here is another chance for you to win BIG!
They are a new company in town and we really want to help them succeed, and there can be something in it for you too. Like/Follow them on Instagram and Facebook for a chance to win a Bison cooler full of goodies! Let's see how high we can get their numbers. Currently, as I'm typing: Facebook 77 likes 193 followers Instagram 60 followers 63 following You know what? I like this idea. I might keep up with these numbers for our sponsors and put them here every week. Then I will shame...lessly ask that you support them every week to see how high we can get those numbers! I gotta scroll back up and and add those to everyone else, but it was this very moment that you all inspired me to do that.
We’re excited to welcome True Aiken to the Amp the Alley sponsor family!
Born from a deep love for “the South’s Best Small Town,” True Aiken captures everything that makes this place special. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this charming shop offers a curated collection of original Aiken apparel, locally inspired gifts, and home goods that celebrate the town’s unique spirit.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, True Aiken is the go-to destination for anyone who wants to wear their Aiken pride on their sleeve (literally). Their passion for the community is woven into every product—making them the perfect fit for a concert series that’s all about celebrating the soul of downtown.
I can attest peronally how great the clothes are. I wore a True Aiken shirt every night of the Masters Blitz, and I was CONSTANTLY being stopped and asked where I got my shirt. After I explained it was conveniently right around the corner, I'd follow up by telling them to feel the shirt and its comfortable quality.
Welcome aboard, True Aiken—we’re proud to have you with us!
Amp the Alley is thrilled to welcome one of downtown’s most vibrant new additions — Rhumba Rum & Cigar Lounge — to our 2025 sponsor lineup!
Brought to Aiken by Jessica and Elier Alberto, Rhumba is a celebration of Latin flavor, hospitality, and rhythm. After relocating from Miami, the couple brought with them a vision for a lively, authentic Cuban-inspired experience — and it’s quickly become one of Aiken’s most talked-about spots.
From their freshly squeezed craft cocktails and shareable Latin bites (don’t miss the lamb lollipops!) to a full menu of Cuban comfort food, Rhumba delivers bold flavors in a welcoming, hip atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a cigar on the outdoor patio, browsing the indoor humidor, or unwinding at the mixology bar, every visit feels like a mini escape.
But the energy doesn’t stop at the food and drinks — Rhumba also brings the heat with live entertainment and salsa dancing, inviting guests to let loose, move to the rhythm, and experience nightlife the way it was meant to be.
Amp the Alley is proud to partner with a venue that brings so much life and culture to Downtown Aiken. Welcome to the party, Rhumba — we’re glad you’re here! Facebook: 644 likes • 896 followers
Instagram: 1,127 Followers
Amp the Alley is proud to welcome one of our favorite local legends — Aiken’s Barbershop — as a 2025 sponsor!
This classic, no-nonsense barbershop is where Aiken goes for fresh cuts, clean fades, and sharp lines — and they’ve been serving the community with pride and precision for years. Known for their early hours, skilled barbers, and friendly atmosphere, Aiken’s Barbershop is the kind of place where everyone feels like a regular.
Open Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5 PM and Saturdays starting bright and early at 7:00 AM, this team means business — and it shows in the quality of their work. (Closed Sundays and Mondays, because even legends need a break.)
Their presence at Amp has been more than just appreciated — it’s been a hit. The free neck shaves they’ve been offering during shows? Absolute game-changer. Let’s just say the guys were grateful... and the ladies noticed. Clean lines, cool vibes, and community love — that’s the Aiken’s Barbershop way.
We’re pumped to have them on board for another season of good times, great music, and fresh fades in The Alley! Facebook: 706 likes • 773 followers Instagram: 102 followers
Amp the Alley is hyped to welcome back a longtime favorite — now with a bold new twist!
Say hello to the newly rebranded Woodchuckers Axe n’ Ale: same wild aim, all-new energy.
This isn’t your average night out. Whether you're lining up a throw or raising a cold one with friends, Woodchuckers brings the adrenaline and the after-hours eats to match. With a fresh logo and a vibe to match, they’ve become the spot in The Alley to blow off steam, spark some friendly competition, and stay out late.
Kitchen closed downtown? Not here.
After 9 PM, while other spots are winding down, Woodchuckers is just getting started — serving up hot, cheesy, crave-worthy eats like giant pretzels, chili dogs, and fully loaded chips. Whether you're in for a full tournament or just tagging along for the beer and bites, there’s always something to throw, chew, or cheer for.
Amp is all about keeping downtown Aiken alive and electric — and Woodchuckers Axe n’ Ale is hitting that bullseye week after week. Let’s raise a pint of Bud Light to sharp throws, salty snacks, and a sponsor that always brings the fun! Facebook: 1.2K likes • 1.5K followers
Instagram: 1,086 followers
Amp the Alley is proud to welcome a new chapter of a longtime Aiken favorite —
Prime Steakhouse — now under the ownership of Executive Chef Chad Jajczyk!
With a reputation for culinary excellence across the Aiken Dining Group, Chef Chad has brought new life to Prime while honoring what made it beloved in the first place: classic cuts, timeless service, and a commitment to quality. Now, that commitment runs even deeper with the integration of Turkey Creek Cattle Co., a regenerative farm supplying premium, locally raised beef, and has partnered exclusively with The Aiken Dining Group.
At Prime, every steak tells a story — of craftsmanship, care, and community. From rich ribeyes to tender filets, you’re not just tasting a meal; you’re experiencing the future of farm-to-table dining in Downtown Aiken. And with Chad at the helm, you can expect the same passion and precision that made Whiskey Alley a must-visit destination.
Amp the Alley celebrates the best of local talent — on stage and in the kitchen. We’re honored to have Prime Steakhouse joining us as a sponsor this season, raising the bar for what it means to dine, drink, and enjoy the downtown experience. Facebook: 3.8K likes • 3.9K followers
Instagram: 167 followers
Let's not forget our LEGACY SPONSORS
Southbound Smokehouse, Whiskey Alley, Electric Eats, TakoSushi, The Alley Downtown Taproom, Mellow Mushroom, and Neon Fig.
This Week at Amp the Alley - Heart & Soul Band
Thursday, April 17, 2025 | Music starts at 6:30 PM
Amp the Alley is proud to welcome a group that lives up to its name in every sense — Heart & Soul Band. Made up entirely of Aiken locals, this dynamic seven-piece ensemble blends rhythm, groove, and pure passion with a performance that always hits home.
Formed through a shared love of music and community, Heart & Soul has been performing together for five years, but their roots run deep. Guitarist and vocalist Darrell Rains has been part of the Aiken Women’s Heart Board Benefit for over 30 years, helping the event raise more than $2.7 million for the American Heart Association. The band itself was born from that very benefit, and their name says it all: Heart for the cause, and Soul for the sound.
Their repertoire is packed with timeless hits and feel-good favorites, ranging from classic R&B and soul to rock and contemporary country — everything from Stevie Wonder, Huey Lewis, and The Beatles to Adele, Santana, and Wilson Pickett. Whether you're swaying to “Into the Mystic” or shouting along to “Mustang Sally,” their three-set lineup promises a night full of unforgettable moments.
🎤 Meet the Band:
Ashley Foreman – Percussion and vocals
Clay Killian – Trumpet and vocals
Darrell Rains – Acoustic & electric guitar and vocals
Mark Ferriter – Drums and vocals
Mike Terry – Saxophone and vocals
Randa Berry – Keyboards, piano, organ, and vocals
Steve Moore – Bass guitar and vocals
Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of Aiken’s most community-minded groups take the stage. Whether you’re here for the grooves, the gratitude, or both — Heart & Soul is sure to leave you feeling the rhythm and the love.
Season Lineup
Band Gallery from Masters Week
Next Week at Amp the Alley - George Comma Jones
Our own Kenny George (Kenny George Band) is partnering up with long time friend and musician Andrew Jones to bring some Americana Signer Songwriter Tunes to the Bud Light Stage!
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