Chef Rusty

The Zac Brown Band brings their homegrown music festival back for its fifth year in a new springtime slot.

Somehow I was able to score an interview with Chef Rusty, the executive chef for the Zac Brown Band and the Southern Ground Music and Food Festival, and in less than 10 minutes, I was wooed.

My play-by-play rundown (including photos!) of Saturday's Southern Ground opening day, from the complainers in line to a run-in with Zac Brown to the madcap musicians onstage... Wow.

I spoke with Zac Brown Band's Clay Cook about his musical roots (which include having—already—played in five huge acts), his pal John Mayer, Home Team BBQ, and what's in store for this weekend

Wondering about the FOOD at this weekend's big fest? I interviewed Zac Brown's chef for a preview of what's cooking (hint: Smoked Beef Tendererloin Sliders on Pan-Fried Cornbread Rolls are involved)