Confederate Railroad Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a Confederate Railroad band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Confederate Railroad is an American band renowned for their energetic blend of country rock, Southern rock, and outlaw country. Emerging from Atlanta, Georgia in the early 1980s, the group was founded by singer/guitarist Danny Shirley, lead guitarist Michael Lamb, steel guitarist Gates Nichols, keyboardist Chris McDaniel, bassist Wayne Secrest, and drummer Mark Dufresne. Over time, they became a staple of the Southern music scene, known for their rowdy yet heartfelt performances. They honed their craft as a house band and backed notable artists like Johnny Paycheck and David Allan Coe, before gaining national attention with their self-titled debut album in 1992. Their music carries the spirit of legends like Alabama and Lynyrd Skynyrd, offering a mix of humor and sincerity through hits such as "Queen of Memphis" and "Trashy Women."
How to Sound Like Confederate Railroad
Confederate Railroad’s sound is characterized by a robust, gritty texture that combines twangy guitar riffs with a solid rhythmic backbone. Their music often features rich, driving guitar tones, achieved through the use of electric guitars like the Gibson Les Paul Custom, paired with the powerful output of amps like the Peavey Triple XXX. The band’s arrangements are both melodic and rhythmic, with the steel guitar adding a signature Southern flair and keyboard elements enriching their soundscape. Confederate Railroad delivers a raw, unpolished energy, reminiscent of a live barroom performance, and captures the essence of Southern storytelling through catchy hooks and heartfelt lyrics.
Discography
Get the Confederate Railroad Sound
Want to sound like Confederate Railroad? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.