Con Hunley was born in Fountain City and attended Central High School. He idolized Chet Atkins and taught himself to play using Chet Atkins's signature guitar style, often called "Atkins style" or "Travis picking,". Rather than using a guitar pick, this method utilizes his thumb and the first two (or sometimes three) fingers of his right hand to play a combination of bass, rhythm, and melody simultaneously, creating a rich and complex sound.

After high school, Hunley began playing with local bands, maturing musically and gaining his first fans. He often played at the Corner Lounge on Central Avenue – now one of the oldest bars in Knoxville. And, like many musicians starting out, he has said that he began playing just for beer and tip money! He was seen performing there as recently as 2018.

Hunley has toured throughout the U.S., playing large venues around the country with other musical acts, including Alabama, the Oak Ridge Boys, Larry Gatlin, George Jones, and Tammy Wynette. For over 20 years, Hunley has participated in celebrity golf tournaments around the country and he hosts one of his own each year in Knoxville. He has raised over a million dollars for charities benefiting underprivileged children.

On Saturday, March 29th at 7:00, you can see him perform here in Maynardville at the high school auditorium with special guest star Justin Terry. Doors open at 6:00, tickets are $23-$29 at www.EventBrite.com, or bring cash to the door.

But before the concert, don’t forget your FREE Spaghetti Dinner at 5:00 at the UCHS Commons area sponsored by the Union County Lions Club and the UCHS Culinary Class with Chef Zach Hodges!