The Russell County Line is officially the home of 49 Winchester.
Earlier this week, the twangy southern rockers were honored in their home state of Virginia with a plaque that denotes Russell County as the official home of 49 Winchester.
The Castlewood, Virginia, founded band came onto the scene hot with their single “Russell County Line.” Released in 2022 as the lead single off their record Fortune Favors The Bold, “Russell County Line,” is a love letter to the place the band calls home. You can feel the sincerity in the lyrics, which convey how much this band loves their hometown and the calmness that washes over them when they head home after being on the road.
“And if you wonder where my heart is when I’m out on the roadIt’s right at home, I left it honey just for you to holdAnd if you wonder how I’m doing, know that I am doing fineBut I wish I was in Virginia on the Russell County line…”
Not only does 49 Winchester still have a strong backing from their hometown community, but they also give back to them whenever possible. At the start of the year, Bassist Chase Chafin, along with the rest of the band, came together to donate 50 Fender guitars to seventh graders at Castlewood Elementary School. They chose that specific grade because that’s when many of the 49 Winchester members started playing music themselves.
What class act to not only give back to foster the growth and interest in music in their hometown.
Now, Russell County is acknowledging the significant impact the band has had on them, making the song more than just a song. On August 19th, the city of Russell County, Virginia, officially dubbed the town the “Home of 49 Winchester.”
“Earlier this week, Russell County, Virginia, unveiled an addition of ‘Home of 49 Winchester’ to the roadside welcome signs at the entrances to the county. We want to send a huge thank you to our folks at home. It will always be an honor to be recognized by the place that raised us.”
Chase Chafin shared that the sign resides between their hometown of Castlewood and the neighboring town of Saint Paul.
Now, whenever a band member or fan drives by one of these signs, they will truly feel the magic of being on that “Russell County Line.”
If you’re traveling through Southwest Virginia soon, be on the lookout for these signs. I know there are many “I’ve made it moments” as a musician, but this one has got to feel pretty good to be recognized by the town that helped shape you…
@whiskeyriff “But I wish I was in Virginia on the Russell County line…” @49 Winchester // whiskeyriff.com #whiskeyriff #49winchester #russellcountyline ♬ original sound – Whiskey Riff
Before you go, play “Russell County Line” at max volume.
