Congrats to Randy Franklin & The Sardines!

There are many nationally recognized music artists from North or South Carolina that have greatly impacted the cultural landscape of the the country.  We’ve decided to honor them by declaring August, Carolina Music Month to celebrate the accomplishments of established and emerging artists.  Throughout the month, we featured songs by nine independent artists via our 91 Seconds of Fame contest.  After receiving over 500 votes for the contest, the winning song is “I Like it When You’re Here” by Randy Franklin & The Sardines!

Randy Franklin is a Charlotte native. After 20 years of serving as the primary songwriter and front man for the well-known NC band Crisis, Randy Franklin recorded his first solo album in 2012.  Upon the 2013 release of his debut album Bloodlines, Randy Franklin & The Sardines were formed to promote the record and perform songs live in various music venues throughout the Carolinas. Randy Franklin & The Sardines were named “Best Americana Band” in 2020 by the Queen City Music Awards, have been featured on local and national radio programs and collectively have shared the stage with national recording artists such as Fountains of Wayne, The Smithereens, Don Dixon and others. The band consists of Randy Franklin, vocals, guitar, harmonica, Ed Leitch, lead guitar, Donnie Dover, keys and vocals, Steve Foley, bass and vocals, Keith Shamel lead guitar, and Tom Thomas on drums and vocals.  Their song, “I Like it When You’re Here” was recorded in May 2023 and will be released on their forthcoming self-titled album. More information about the band is available on www.randyfranklinmusic.com