The Old 97's are an alt-country band originally based in Dallas, Texas. They are named after a song popularized by Johnny Cash, "The Wreck of the Old '97."

The line-up includes:

  • Rhett Miller, lead vocals, rhythm guitar and lyrics
  • Murray Hammond, bass, occasional lead vocals, backup vocals
  • Ken Bethea, lead guitar
  • Philip Peeples, drums and backup vocals

Their albums include:
  • Hitchhike To Rhome (1994, Big Iron Records)
  • Wreck Your Life (1995, Bloodshot Records) - containing the fan favorites "Big Brown Eyes" and "Victoria''
  • Too Far To Care (1997, Elektra Records) - including the favorites "Barrier Reef" and "Timebomb," as well as a more energetic version of "Big Brown Eyes" and a much more fiery remake of their song "Four Leaf Clover" (from Hitchhike) as a duet with Exene Cervenka of the punk band X
  • Fight Songs (1999, Elektra) - an album often viewed by fans as an abrupt and sometimes unwelcome departure from their early country-tinged sound and into pop. Two of its songs got national radio airplay: "Murder (Or a Heart Attack)" and "Nineteen."
  • Satellite Rides (2001, Elektra)

Their songs have also appeared on the King of the Hill soundtrack and the tribute to The Knitters Poor Little Knitter on the Road, as well as various television shows.