With their energetic performances, eclectic song list and undeniable chemistry on stage, The Tone Kings have become a staple of Prescott’s live music scene. Blending rock, blues and country with their own signature style, the band keeps audiences dancing and smiling wherever they play.
Prescott NOW caught up with guitarist and vocalist Mary Kelley during spring 2025 to talk about the band’s journey, their connection with local audiences and what makes playing music in Prescott so special.
Prescott NOW: How long have you been playing together?
Mary Kelley: The Tone Kings band began over five years ago. The current lineup — with Greg Woodbury on lead guitar and vocals, Mick Townley on bass and vocals, Mike Hutchinson on drums and me on lead guitar and vocals — has been together since late 2024. Greg is the only original band member left.
Greg was the one who came
up with the Tone Kings band name.
Prescott NOW: How do you connect with your audience?
Mary Kelley: The band is lucky to have good chemistry! We have a lot of fun playing together and the audience picks up on that. People want to have a good time when they go out.
I really enjoy engaging with the audience. I want everyone to enjoy our music and hopefully laugh at my silly jokes! We’re energized when we see people dancing and having fun. There are a lot of great musicians in this town, so we feel lucky when people come out to see us. Prescott audiences are the best!
Prescott NOW: How would you describe your sound?
Mary Kelley: Eclectic! We play a variety of tunes from many different genres and artists: the Rolling Stones, Bryan Adams, K.T. Tunstall, Bonnie Raitt, Toby Keith, Tommy Castro, Delbert McClinton, Queen, R.E.M. Lots of rock n’ roll, some blues, some country; a mixed bag of song types, for sure.
Greg and I share the rhythm and lead guitar parts. I think we complement each other really well. Our rhythm section, Mick on bass and Mike on drums, gives a strong heartbeat to the songs, helps keep them danceable. We definitely bring our own spin to each song.
Prescott NOW: What advice would you give to your younger self?
Mary Kelley: Mick’s advice would be to work harder to establish a music career at an earlier age. I would tell my younger self to have more confidence in what you do. Each of us brings a unique perspective to how we perform songs, to the stories we tell through the songs we sing and play. Don’t compare yourself to someone else — just be yourself, do your own thing.
Prescott NOW: What brought you to Prescott?
Mary Kelley: I was visiting relatives in Prescott several years ago. I remember walking up and down Whiskey Row, just amazed to hear so much live music and thinking how cool it would be if I could live here. I’ve lived here almost seven years now, and love it.
The Prescott music scene was a big draw for the guys as well. All of us feel pretty lucky to live in a town with such a vibrant music scene. There are a lot of places in town where you can see some good bands — especially The Tone Kings! 
