James Gideon Tanner (Gid) was an influential old-time fiddler and was one of the first stars of what would later be called counry music. Gid and his band, The Skillet Lickers, recorded between 1926 and 1934. This song, Down Yonder, was one of the last recorded by the band in 1934.
Mr. Tanner was born in Walton County. Most of the sites I find say he was born in or near Thomas Bridge. I have not been able to find where Thomas Bridge is located. So if anyone knows I would love to hear from you. When he was not performing Mr. Tanner spent time on his farm in Gwinnett County. He died in Dacula, GA in 1960.
Between 1913 and 1935 Mr. Tanner a regular at the Georgia Old-Time Fiddlers' Conventions held in Atlanta. His main rival during these years was Fiddlin' John Carson. it is said that it was usually either Carson or Tanner who won these competitions. Although he stopped recording in 1934, Mr. Tanner continued performing well into his 70's.
I hope you enjoy the song. It is a treat from the early days of recorded music in Georgia.
