THE BACKSTORY
Every great party has an origin story…. Here’s ours.
Before Southern Fancy was lighting up dance floors and turning ordinary parties into country celebrations, there was a teenage vocal ensemble in Tampa Bay called Sounds of Time. That’s where Tony and Tina first crossed paths — two music-loving high schoolers with big dreams, harmonizing their way through legendary pop hits and holiday shows.
Life took them in different directions after graduation, but they never lost touch — it was the kind of friendship that hums along like a favorite song, just waiting for the right moment to play again.
Tina’s Tale: From Dirt Tracks to Hollywood Lights
Tina Michelle was raised in Riverview, Florida — where summers were long, the sweet tea was strong, and local legends included moonshine runners and fast cars. Her soundtrack growing up? Her mama’s eight-tracks of Patsy, Dolly, Tammy, and Elvis. And her dad’s southern rock heroes — Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Eagles, and Willie Nelson.
After high school, Tina began performing at local events and got a taste of a bigger stage singing the National Anthem at East Bay Raceway. From county fairs to community festivals, one thing was clear to all her supporters — Tina had the kind of voice and sparkle that drew people in.
After college and a few years of life experience, Tina packed up and headed west to chase bigger dreams. In Los Angeles, she founded and fronted what became one of the most sought-after country cover bands in southern California — Tina Michelle & The Rhinestone Cowboys. Her shows were more than just performances — they were full-on parties. Tina was teaching line dancing from the stage before it was even a thing. Californians went wild for it.
Then, more than a decade later, the lockdown happened. Florida was calling, and Tina came home — and when it came time to get a new dream off the ground, she knew just who to call.
Tony’s Groove: Born to Play & built to create
Tony grew up steeped in rhythm, harmony, and the kind of musical magic you can’t fake. As the son of Rockabilly Hall of Fame legend Bobby Caraway, music wasn’t just in the house — it was the heartbeat of everyday life. Jam sessions replaced family dinners, and the living room doubled as a stage. Tony absorbed it all, learning that great music isn’t just heard — it’s felt.
He picked up the guitar before he could drive, nailed vocal harmonies before most kids knew what a chord was, and eventually added drums to his arsenal. What really sets Tony apart is his ear — he’s a master of harmony, able to blend vocals and guitar in a way that elevates every song…every show…every time.
His musical journey took him to Nashville, and later Texas, where he dug even deeper into the craft of songwriting. Surrounded by the legacy of troubadours, Tony honed his storytelling skills — learning how to spin life, love, heartbreak, and joy into lyrics that hit you straight into your soul. Whether he's laying down a tight groove or sharing an original song, Tony brings authenticity, artistry, and grit to every note.
And So…Southern Fancy Was Born
When Tina reached out with a wild idea to reunite, Tony didn’t hesitate. They picked up right where they left off — not as high school kids this time, but as seasoned performers ready to bring something fresh to Florida: country music with a twist. The magic was instant. Their chemistry on stage is undeniable — like two old friends finishing each others’ musical sentences.
What started as a shared love of music between friends evolved into Southern Fancy — a feel-good blend of timeless country hits, live music, and line dancing that gets people moving (without the cringe). Tina Michelle leads the charge, backed by a crew of talented performers who know how to read a room and turn any space into a party people talk about long after the last song.
Whether it’s a backyard bash or a full-blown corporate event, Southern Fancy delivers.
You bring the boots — we’ll bring the entertainment!
book COUNTRY ENTERTAINMENT
Southern Fancy is currently booking events in the greater Tampa Bay area. Whether it's a corporate event, wedding, or western-themed bash, no event is too big or too small. From live country music and country DJs to line dance instruction that gets everyone on their feet, we’ll help you create an unforgettable country event!