Patterson David Hood, born on March 24, 1964, is an accomplished American singer-songwriter and co-founder of the renowned band Drive-By Truckers. Hood's musical journey began in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where he honed his skills and formed Adam's House Cat with his friend Mike Cooley during his college years. The duo later established the Drive-By Truckers in 1996, and the band gained recognition for blending country and rock & roll influences. In addition to his band contributions, Hood has released three solo albums, with his fourth studio album, "Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams," being released in 2025. Notably, he formed Patterson Hood and the Downtown 13, a collective that included prominent musicians, to protest the construction of a new Wal-Mart in downtown Athens. Hood's personal life has seen him married three times, with his current spouse being Rebecca Hood, with whom he has two children. His impactful presence extends beyond music, as evidenced by his involvement in a New York Times editorial addressing the misrepresentation of the Confederate flag in the Southern United States. Throughout his career, Hood has continually showcased his musical prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and captivating audiences worldwide.

Patterson is a surname with origins in Scotland, Ireland, and Northern England, signifying "son of Patrick." Notable individuals bearing the Patterson surname include athletes, politicians, musicians, scientists, and more. Some of the distinguished figures are Alexander Bell Patterson, a Canadian politician, Alvin "Seeco" Patterson, a Jamaican percussionist, and Carly Patterson, an American gymnast. The list also includes prominent personalities like Eleanor "Cissy" Patterson, an American newspaper editor, and Floyd Patterson, a world heavyweight champion boxer. Additionally, the Patterson surname encompasses a wide array of professionals, including American football coach Gary Patterson, British business executive Gavin Patterson, and American bishop Gilbert E. Patterson. The Patterson surname has left a significant mark in various fields, making it a name associated with diverse accomplishments and contributions across different domains.

The Patterson family, hailing from North Carolina, has left a lasting legacy in the realms of politics and business. With their involvement in state and national politics and the founding of successful companies, such as the American Machine and Foundry Company, the Pattersons have made their mark across generations. The family's roots can be traced back to the esteemed Lenoir family, notably through the lineage of Gen. William Lenoir, a distinguished figure in late 18th-century and early 19th-century North Carolina. The Patterson family's influence extended to various spheres, from politics to business, with notable members such as Rufus Lenoir Patterson Jr., who founded the American Machine and Foundry and served as a vice president of the American Tobacco Company. Their impact also resonates in the architectural realm, as evidenced by the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower, a testament to their philanthropy and support for higher education. The family's contributions have left an indelible mark on North Carolina's history and beyond, shaping the trajectory of both business and public service.