Inspired by bands such as The Replacements, The Clash, R.E.M., and Jason and the Scorchers, Government Cheese brought a kind of chaotic Rock n Roll energy that Bowling Green had previously been unfamiliar with. The band formed in 1984 with Tommy Womack and Skot Willis, who then collected members Billy Mack Hill, Joe Elvis King, and Viva McQueen. Getting their start playing at fraternity parties, “The Cheese” became known for their energy and demeanor on stage. It was the region’s first experience of a punk band: the loudness, jumping around on stage, and sleeping under tables between sets. Eventually, the band was given a steady gig by Skip Walker, who managed Michael’s Pub at the time.

By 1986, the band was playing frequently in Louisville, Nashville, and everywhere in between. They signed to Reptile Records after being picked up by a manipulative and uncompromising manager. Over the next few years, they toured around the country, recorded a few albums, and garnered a loyal following. They were able to forge an avenue of connection with other hotspots of quintessential 1980s music, such as Athens, GA. Thanks to Government Cheese, Bowling Green was able to solidify itself as a tour stop for musicians of a new era.