Anthony "Tony" Tilley
Tony Tilley – I am a lifelong South Carolinian, most of my life lived in Anderson County. I grew up in a musical family, playing and singing harmonies with my Dad and older brother David.
I can’t even recall learning to play guitar, but started on bass at 12 years old. Country music was always my passion with early influences being greats such as Merle Haggard and Marty Robbins.
In my pre-teen years, I discovered outlaw country with Waylon being my favorite.
I married my high school sweetheart Jo Beth and we are celebrating 42 years of marriage this year. I have been a pastor for 27 years and retired in 2020 from the City of Anderson Police Department.
Tony Tilley
How many instruments do you play?
I play several, including rhythm and some lead guitar, bass, a little piano, mandolin and have been working on some fiddle.
But the bass guitar is my passion, my go-to instrument.
What was your favorite TV show growing up?
The Andy Griffith Show, hands down.
Who influenced you the most with music?
But I also love the easy 60s and 70s stuff like the Carpenters, Tommy James and the Shondells, and Bread.
I also really admire songwriters who tell stories; Tom T. Hall and Kris Kristofferson are two of my favorites.
We’re you a good student in school?
I could have, and should have done much better.
What’s your favorite thing about playing in a band?
Certainly in this band, the comraderie is a huge plus.
Tell something most people may not know about you.
We were called Backwoods Country. However, before joining Silver ..I had not played in an organized band for 30 years.
I am having a blast with these guys!