FORT BENNING, Ga., (June 8, 2016) -- Uptown Columbus hosted the last show of its The Big To Do concert series June 3. Dozens of people lined the streets to watch country duo Laughlin perform at the free event.
Laughlin is comprised of Zach and Alison Laughlin, husband and wife, who have been singing together five years. They are currently on tour to promote their new album "The Run Around."
"Zach's a local. He grew up here. We've known him for a long time and invited him back to play," said Richard Bishop, the CEO of Uptown Columbus.
Bishop encouraged members of the Fort Benning community to come out and participate in Uptown Columbus' events.
"Uptown Columbus is a great venue for families. We have the new splash pad that opened up for children right on the river walk and a brand new playground," he said.
Zach Laughlin, a guitarist and singer, graduated from Columbus High School while Alison, a singer, hails from Cartersville, Georgia.
"I grew up here. I was born and raised here. I love this city. I played baseball at Columbus High School. That's where I met Cal," Zach said.
Cal Braski plays electric guitar for Laughlin.
Zach said that both he and Alison grew up in chorus and singing.
"Music has been a part of lives since we were kids," he continued.
"When we first started dating, we learned every duet that we could because we thought it was cool that we could both sing. We'd break the guitar out at parties," added Alison.
Zach said that before deciding to pursue a career in music he was teacher. Alison said that she worked as a commercial claims adjustor.
"Two years ago we both had full time jobs. Music was a secondary thing. Then we had some great people step into our lives that had a lot of great things to say. We took a leap of faith and quit our jobs. Now we live in Nashville," Zach said.
Zach and Alison appreciate the fans that have supported them thus far.
"It's really great to know that we have devoted fans. We have a lot of people that stand behind us. They love us as people and musicians," Zach said.
Alicia Vinson, Zach's high school chorus teacher, attended the concert to show her support.
"When Zach was in high school, I said that he has the most commercial quality of any kid I've ever taught. He's a natural onstage," Vinson said.
"He came to me as a junior trying to figure out what he was going to do as a senior project and I said learn how to play the guitar. Then he went off and met Alison and they started writing songs together," she added.
Christa Griffiths and her nephew, Jackson, longtime fans of Laughlin, were also there to support them at the concert.
"We are so proud of Zach and Alison. Laughlin's come a long way. They're so entertaining and we're glad they're home to celebrate the weekend with us," Griffiths said.
"Laughlin was the first concert Jackson ever went to. He has a signed copy of their first CD and a signed copy of their T-shirt," she added.
Frank Braski, another fan of Laughlin, was also there at the concert. He's been to see them multiple times.
"I think they're terrific. I'd like to see them go all the way. Make it big time," Braski said.
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