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Category: All Musical Artists

Paisley, Danny

Posted on December 22, 2013April 23, 2021 by WR

DANNY PAISLEY (AND THE SOUTHERN GRASS)

From Landenburg, Pennsylvania—about fifty miles southwest of Philadelphia.
Danny’s father Bob Paisley formed the Southern Grass in 1979. Prior to that he played with Ted Lundy in a band called Bob Paisley, Ted Lundy and the Southern Mountain Boys. Lundy passed away in 1980. The band became Bob Paisley and the Southern Mountain Boys.
After Bob Paisley’s death in 2004, Danny took over leadership of the band. The new Southern Grass includes Bob and T.J. Lundy (sons of Ted Lundy) and Dan’s brother Michael.
In their words, they play “unadorned, intense traditional bluegrass. There is no hybrid or genre-bending music here.”
2008, released The Room Over Mine album (Rounder).
2009, won the IBMA award for Song of the Year (for “Don’t Throw Mama’s Flowers Away” written by Chris Stuart)
2013, released Road Into Town album (Patuxent).
2015, released “Weary River” album (Patuxent). Band lineup: Danny Paisley (vocals and guitar), Mark Delaney (banjo), T.J. Lundy (fiddle), Eric Troutman (vocals and bass), and son Ryan Paisley (mandolin), just 15 years old.
2019, released That’s Why I’m Lonesome album (Patuxent).
2020, won the IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year (his second; he also won in 2016).
2021, released Bluegrass Troubador album (Pinecastle).

Palmer, Joshua

Posted on May 11, 2015December 23, 2015 by WR

JOSHUA PALMER

From Owls Hollow, Alabama.
Plays mandolin with an Alabama group called Valley Road. He previously worked with a gospel group called Canaan’s Crossing.
2015, released solo project Metacognition (Patuxent Records).

Pardue, Rick

Posted on October 23, 2013December 23, 2015 by LJ

RICK PARDUE

From State Road, North Carolina.
1975, played banjo in a North Carolina band called the Sugarloaf Ramblers.
Left the music scene in the mid-80’s and took up flying airplanes.
1990-1995, had a band called Point Blank.
1995, formed Long and Pardue band with guitar player Tommy Long. Pardue plays banjo.
1998, formed Rambler’s Choice.
2000, joined Carolina Road.
2002, toured with Butch Robins and Bobby Hicks
Besides songwriting and playing music, he is a real estate broker and buys/repairs/sells Subarus.
2011, recorded an album of original songs with Timmy Massey Ghost of Noah Hayes (no label).
2012, won an IBMA Award for a song he co-wrote with Tim Massey, “A Far Cry from Lester and Earl” as recorded by Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice.

Cache Valley Drifters

Posted on October 23, 2013April 20, 2019 by LJ

CACHE VALLEY DRIFTERS

From Santa Barbara, California.
Formed 1972, broke up 1983. Re-united 1992.
Original members: Wally Barnick (bass), Bill Griffin (mandolin), David West (guitar, banjo).
Were regulars at the Cold Springs Tavern in San Marcos (near Santa Barbara).

OBrien, Tim

Posted on October 23, 2013March 13, 2017 by LJ

TIM O’BRIEN

From Wheeling, West Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
A singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist (primarily mandolin and fiddle) who rose to prominence with the Colorado-based group Hot Rize (1979-1990). Since then, he has performed as a solo artist and with his band The O’Boys. He has also toured and recorded with his sister Mollie O’Brien, Darrell Scott, New Grange, the Earls of Leicester and several other ensembles.
Early years: had a group in high school called the Northern Valley Boys (in high school). He also performed as a solo act in a pizza parlor in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and spent some time as a member of the The Hutchison Brothers, an Ohio group. After moving to Colorado, he worked with a group called Ophelia Swing Band.
He plays the role of Red Knuckles in the Hot Rize western band “Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers.”
1984, released Hard Year Blues album (Flying Fish).
1990, sang duo with Kathy Mattea on “The Battle Hymn of Love” a #1 record.
Has also sung and played on albums by Mary Chapin Carpenter.
1990, signed by RCA Records but was subsequently dropped due to budget cuts by the label before his first album was released.
1991, released Odd Man In album (Sugar Hill).
1993, released Oh Boy! O’Boy! album (Sugar Hill).
1995, his song “You Love Me, You Love Me Not” was recorded by country singer Hal Ketchum.
1996, released an album of Bob Dylan songs Red On Blonde (Sugar Hill).
1997, became the first artist to achieve three #1 albums on the Gavin “Americana” Charts.
1997, released When No One’s Around album (Sugar Hill).
1997, Garth Brooks recorded a song co-written by Tim called “When There’s No One Around.”
1998, performed with Jeff White, Charlie Cushman, Mark Schatz and Jerry Douglas in a group called “The Flattheads.”
1999, formed a group with Darol Anger, Mike Marshall and Alison Brown called New Grange.
1999, released an album of Irish music The Crossing (Allulu).
2000, began recording and touring as a duo with guitarist/songwriter Darrell Scott.
2001, was appointed president of the IBMA. Resigned two years later.
2002, released Two Journeys album (Sugar Hill).
2003, released Traveler album (Sugar Hill).
2006, won Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Recording.
2006, won his second IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year (also won in 1993).
2005, released Real Time album with Darrell Scott (Full Skies).
2005, released Fiddler’s Green album (Sugar Hill). He won a Grammy Award for this album in the categor “Best Traditional Folk Album.”
2006, won IBMA award for Song of the Year (“Look Down that Lonesome Road”).
2012, released We’re Usually A Lot Better Than This album with Darrell Scott (Full Skies).
2013, was a founding member of the Earls of Leicester. He won a Grammy Award for the band’s self-titled album.
2013 was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.
2013, released Memories & Moments album with Darrell Scott (Full Skies).
2013, released new Hot Rize album When I’m Free and began touring once again with the group.
2015, released Pompadour album (Howdy Skies).
2017, released Where the River Meets the Road album (Howdy Skies).

G2

Posted on February 14, 2014December 22, 2017 by WR

From Stockholm, Sweden.
Formed in 2006 by Christoffer Olsson (guitar), Jens Koch (banjo), Erik Igelström (mandolin), Tobias Strömberg (Dobro™), and Jimmy Sunnebrandt (bass).
2007, won first place in the band contest at the European World of Bluegrass.
2007, released album Where the Tall Grass Grows (no label).
2010, released album “Untapped Roots.”

Radio Flyer

Posted on October 23, 2013July 7, 2024 by LJ

RADIO FLYER

From Springfield, Missouri.
Formed in 1984 by David Wilson (mandolin/fiddle) and Dudley Murphey (guitar).
Won “Best New Bluegrass Band of 1985” at the Kentucky Fried Chicken bluegrass festival in Louisville. (Union Station featuring a 14-year old fiddle player named Alison Krauss came in second.)
1988, released self titled album on Turquoise Records.
1991, released “Old Strings, New Strings” album (Turquoise).
1995, released Town & Country album (Turquoise).
The band broke up in 2002 but Wilson and Murphey have been playing dates together as a duo.
Murphey is an art professor at Drury College in Springfield.
Wilson also founded another band called the Undergrass Boys.
2022, founding member Dudley Murphey died.

Cadillac Sky

Posted on November 8, 2013March 1, 2021 by WR

CADILLAC SKY

From Fort Worth, TX
Formed in 2002 by Bryan Simpson (mandolin, fiddle, lead vocals), Matt Menefee (banjo), Mike Jump (guitar), Clint Sturgeon (bass), and Ross Holmes (fiddle).
2003, released first album “Talent Show,” produced by Pat Flynn.
2005, Andy Moritz replaced Sturgeon on bass.
The band name was inspired by a place called Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, Texas where a row of old Cadillacs are stuck nose-down in a cow pasture along I-40.
Simpson has written songs recorded by artists such as George Strait, Gretchen Wilson, Joe Nichols, Diamond Rio, Jo Dee Messina, Neal McCoy, Brad Martin and Kenny Rogers. In 2009, his song “I’ll Just Hold On” (recorded by Blake Shelton) reached #5 spot on the Billboard Country chart.
Fiddler Ross Holmes spent time in Josh Turner’s band.
Banjo player Matt Menefee won the Winfield Banjo Championship at age 17.
2007, released Blind Man Walking album (Skaggs Family Records).
2008, released Gravity’s Our Enemy album (Skaggs Family Records).
2008, guitarist David Mayfield replaced Jump.
2010, released Letters in the Deep album (Dualtone Records).
2010, Bryan Simpson left the band to pursue Christian ministry opportunities and was replaced by singer/songwriter Levi Lowrey.
2011 (January), disbanded.
2014, reunited to play on Brian Simpson’s solo project “Whistles and Bells.”
2019, Simpson and Menefee formed a new act called The Golden Age.

Cahill, Greg

Posted on November 8, 2013March 13, 2016 by WR

SEE SPECIAL CONSENSUS

Wagner, Cliff

Posted on October 23, 2013April 17, 2017 by LJ

CLIFF WAGNER

From Los Angeles, California. Wagner was born and raised in Mississippi.
Attended the Berklee College of Music (Boston).
1999, lived and played bluegrass in New York City.
2000, moved to California.
Plays banjo and fiddle, sings lead in his band The Old 97 and writes most of their songs.
Band includes Craig Ferguson (guitar), Devitt Feeley (mandolin) and Andrew Paddock (bass.)
2007, released My Native Land album (no label).
2007, appeared on Fox TV’s “The Next Great American Band.”
2008, released Hobo’s Lullaby album (no label).

Parker, Jeff

Posted on December 22, 2013October 8, 2022 by WR

JEFF PARKER

From Renfro Valley, Kentucky.
Began playing guitar at age six. Age 12, began performing with his family band Sounds of Gospel at the Renfro Valley Barn Dance.
First professional gig: playing mandolin with Larry Sparks at Renfro Valley.
1980, formed his first band called Train 45.
1986-1994, worked full time as a musician at Renfro Valley. He was in the staff band and performed with The Parker Brothers.
1995, formed Wilderness Trail with his brother Mike.
2001, joined the Lonesome River Band, playing mandolin.
2004, released first solo project Two Roads to Travel (Lonesome Day).
2006, left the Lonesome River Band and joined Dale Ann Bradley’s band.
2007, joined Dailey & Vincent, playing mandolin and singing harmony vocals.
2012, released second solo project Go Parker (Lonesome Day).
2013, released “It’s Christmas Time” album (Lonesome Day).
2015, released “Jeff Parker & Company” album (Lonesome Day).
2018, announced his decision to leave Dailey & Vincent and begin performing with his own band Jeff Parker & Company.
2019, formed a new act with guitarist/singer Colin Ray called Jeff Parker and Colin Ray.
2020, joined Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers; Jeff Parker and Colin Ray disbanded.
2022, left Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers to resume performing under his own name.

I Draw Slow

Posted on March 24, 2014April 22, 2017 by WR

I DRAW SLOW

From Dublin, Ireland.
Formed in 2007.
A celtic/Americana group featuring siblings Dave and Louise Holden (guitar, vocals), Adrian Hart (fiddle), Colin Derham (banjo) and Konrad Liddy (bass).
2010, released first album “Downside.”
2012, released Redhills album (Pinecastle).
2014, released White Wave Chapel album (Pinecastle).
2017, released Turn Your Face to the Sun album (Compass).

Eanes, Jim

Posted on October 23, 2013November 21, 2013 by LJ

JIM EANES

From Martinsville, Virginia.
Nickname: “Smilin’ Jim Eanes” (His given name is Homer—but chose his stage name, “Smilin’ Jim” in 1939.)
A pioneer of bluegrass music. Began his career in 1948 with Flatt & Scruggs, then Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
Solo career: 1949, had hit record “Baby Blue Eyes” (Capitol Records); Early fifties, recorded “Missing in Action” (Blue Ridge Records) which reportedly sold more than 400,000 copies; 1952, had hits “I Cried Again” and “Just Suppose” (Decca).
1955-1962, leader/lead singer for The Shenandoah Valley Boys (which included banjo whiz Allen Shelton)
Late 60’s, recorded several albums backed by The Country Gentlemen.
Songwriting credits: “Baby Blue Eyes”, “Next Sunday Darling is My Birthday,” and “I Wouldn’t Change You If I Could.” His songs have been recorded by Flatt and Scruggs, Bill Monroe, Reno and Smiley, George Jones and Ricky Skaggs.
Was a disc-jockey on several country radio stations.
1988, inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame.
Died in 1995.

Mack, LeRoy

Posted on December 18, 2013November 17, 2023 by WR

LEROY MACK

From Los Angeles, California.
Given name: LeRoy McNees.
Former Dobro™ player with the Kentucky Colonels (early 1960’s). He appeared on the Andy Griffith TV show and is a favorite at the annual “Mayberry Days” reunions in Mt. Airy, NC.
For more than 20 years, he performed with a Los Angeles area gospel group called The Born Again Bluegrass Band.
He never gave up his day job (until retirement in 2004). A devout Christian, he led an organization called Businessmen for Christ.
1978, released Hound Dog Ramble album (Sierra/Brier) with Vince Gill (guitar), Byron Berline (fiddle) and John Hickman (banjo).
1996, released Leroy Mack & Friends (Sugar Hill).
2001, recorded “Together” album with the Canadian band Jerusalem Ridge.
2003, released Smiles & Tears album (no label).
2005, released “Scratchin’ My Beard” album (no label).
2006, worked with Habitat for Humanity in Florida, building homes for the poor.
2013, released Stories album (no label).
2015, formed a new gospel group in Los Angeles called “Gloryland.”

Gabeheart, Jim & Valerie

Posted on October 23, 2013February 26, 2015 by LJ

JIM AND VALERIE GABEHEART

From Hamlin, West Virginia.
A husband-wife duo. Jim plays banjo, Valerie plays guitar. They married in 1981.
Jim is a five-time West Virginia State Banjo Champion who has performed with Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, Mac Wiseman, Larry Sparks, John Hartford, and Ray Charles.
Jim and Valerie also have a gospel group called Steadfast.
Jim is prosecuting attorney in Lincoln County, West Virginia.
2011, released fifth album “It’s My Turn.”
2023, released “I Was Raised in a Railroad Town” album.

MacKenzie, Kate

Posted on December 18, 2013December 1, 2015 by WR

KATE MACKENZIE

From Minneapolis, Minnesota. Born in Mason City, Iowa. Grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
1981-1995, performed with her band Stoney Lonesome.
She made frequent appearances on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion” (PBS) both as a member of Stoney Lonesome and as a solo performer. She was a member of the original Hopeful Gospel Quartet with Keillor, Chet Atkins and Linda Williams.
1995, formed the Kate MacKenzie Band with mandolinist Chris Silver, also a former member of Stoney Lonesome.
1995, won “Best Country or Bluegrass Recording” at the Minnesota Music Awards for her album Let Them Talk (Red House).
1996, formed a new band called The Pocket Fishermen.
1996, released Age of Innocence album (Red House).

California

Posted on November 8, 2013June 29, 2022 by WR

CALIFORNIA

Southern California-based band featuring Byron Berline, Dan Crary, John Moore, John Hickman and Steve Spurgin.
Formed in 1991. They were formerly called B-C-H (Berline, Crary, Hickman). Changed name to California when Spurgin and Moore were added to the group.
While the group was called California, John Moore was the only California native.
1992, 1993, won IBMA award for “Instrumental Group of the Year.”
Broke up in 1996. Crary and Spurgin left to pursue solo careers. Moore performed with his trio “Bluegrass Etc.” and also trained horses. Berline formed his own “Byron Berline Band” with John Hickman on banjo in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Berline also owned a music store and concert venue called “Byron’s Double Stop Fiddle Shop” and promoted an annual bluegrass festival in Oklahoma. Both Berline and Hickman are now deceased.

Parmley, David

Posted on December 22, 2013August 24, 2022 by WR

DAVID PARMLEY (AND CARDINAL TRADITION)

From Nashville (White House, Tennessee), but grew up in Los Angeles, California.
1974, began playing bluegrass professionally at age 17 with his father Don in the Bluegrass Cardinals. David sang lead and played guitar.
1989, released first solo project I Know a Good Thing (Sugar Hill).
1993, left the Cardinals and moved to Nashville to pursue a solo career in country music.
1993, released Southern Heritage album (Rebel).
1994, formed Continental Divide (AKA David Parmley, Scott Vestal and Continental Divide) with Scott Vestal (banjo), Rickie Simpkins (fiddle), Jimmy Bowen (mandolin), Mike Anglin (bass) and Randy Kohrs (Dobro™).
1995, released David Parmley, Scott Vestal & Continental Divide album (Pinecastle).
1995, Continental Divide won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
1996, released On the Divide album (Pinecastle).
1998, Vestal departed and the band name was changed to Continental Divide, then David Parmley and Continental Divide.
1999, released “There’ll Always Be a Rocking Chair” album (Pinecastle).
2001, released What We Leave Behind album (Pinecastle).
2002, released Pathway of Time album (Pinecastle).
2002, Randy Graham (formerly with Bluegrass Cardinals, Doyle Lawson, BlueRidge) joined the band.
2002, his tour bus was destroyed by fire when it collided with a gas tank on the highway.
2002, formed a part-time band called White House (all members of this band were from White House, Tennessee).
2005, released “Long Time Coming” album (CMH).
2006, released Best of David Parmley & Continental Divide album (Pinecastle).
2007, released “Church House Hymns” album (Pinecastle).
2008, released Three Silver Dollars album (Pinecastle).
2008, took a hiatus from performing because of health problems.
2010, returned to performing with his band Continental Divide.
2012, retired from music. Began driving and maintaining tour buses for various artists (such as Rascal Flatts.)
2015, began performing and touring again with his new band Cardinal Tradition.
2019, retired from music again. Several of his band members formed a new band called Fast Track: Ron Spears (bass), Dale Perry (banjo) and Steve Day (fiddle). Joining them: Jesse Brock (mandolin) and Duane Sparks (guitar).
2022, formed a new band with Larry Stephenson and Randy Graham called the Bluegrass Cardinals Tribute Band.

Camp, Shawn

Posted on November 8, 2013July 26, 2020 by WR

SHAWN CAMP

From Arkansas.
A songwriter whose songs have been recorded by Garth Brooks (“Two Pina Coladas”), Brooks and Dunn (“How Long Gone”), George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton, Josh Turner, Patty Loveless, Randy Travis, Del McCoury, Ricky Skaggs, many others.
1987, moved to Nashville at age 20, worked with Osborne Brothers, playing fiddle.
1991, signed with a major label (Reprise) and recorded first album which was never released.
2004, recorded a live bluegrass album at the Station Inn in Nashville, Live at the Station Inn (Oh Boy Records).
2007, he and rockabilly singer Billy Burnette released an album called “The Bluegrass Elvises” featuring bluegrass covers of Elvis Presley hits.
2013, formed a Flatt and Scruggs tribute band called Earls of Leicester.
2017, won his second IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year (he also won in 2015).

Campbell, Jimmy

Posted on October 3, 2020July 9, 2021 by WR

JIMMY CAMPBELL

From Detroit, Michigan.
1987, moved to Nashville to play fiddle with Jim and Jesse.
1990, played fiddle with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys. His fiddle is heard on “Cryin’ Holy Unto the Lord,” Monroe’s last studio album.
1993, returned to Jim and Jesse.
1993, released Young Opry Fiddler album (Pinecastle)
He also worked with the Cumberland Highlanders and the Sidemen. He appeared on an album by the Sidemen Almost Live at the Station Inn (Grave Records).
2003, died at the age of 40 from carbon monoxide poisoning while sleeping on a converted school bus near Clarksville, Tennessee. Rosie Carter Nix, granddaughter of Johnny Cash and June Carter, also died in the accident. He was playing fiddle in her band at the time. Drug abuse was apparently a contributing factor.

Appalachian Smoke

Posted on January 9, 2024September 16, 2024 by WR

APPALACHIAN SMOKE

From the region where Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina converge.
Formed in 2021 by BJ Taylor (mandolin), Jamie Mason (guitar), Kenneth Rymer (Dobro™/reso-guitar), Mikel Laws (banjo), and Tim Williams (bass.)
2022, released Colder Side of Love album (no label).
2023, signed with Mountain Fever Records.
2024, released self-titled album (Mountain Fever).

Saffell, Tom

Posted on October 20, 2014December 27, 2015 by WR

TOM SAFFELL

From Nashville (Antioch), Tennessee.
Mid-1990’s, was the banjo player with the Jim Buchanon System, the Bob Smiley Band. Also performs as a solo artist.
“A cross between Bela Fleck and Alison Brown” –Bluegrass Unlimited.
Plays an eight-string banjo which he invented. There are two lower strings and one higher.
1998, released Another Lifetime album (AMI).
2006, joined a Celtic band called Plaidgrass.
2008, released “Forgotten Pictures” album with special guests Sam Bush, Byron House, Shad Cobb, other musicians.
2008, joined a Celtic band called The Fells.

Mackey, Bobby

Posted on December 18, 2013December 1, 2015 by WR

BOBBY MACKEY

From Wilder, Kentucky (near Cincinnati).
Since 1978, has owned a night club called “Bobby Mackey’s” where he performs and hosts other country acts. Cincinnatti’s classic country radio station (WAOL) broadcasts live music from there on Friday nights.
Bobby Mackey’s (the night club) has also received national attention because of ghosts that are said to inhabit the building.
2002, formed a bluegrass band called The Pine Hill Pickers.
2004, released Ten Shades of Green album (no label) with Rhonda Vincent, Sonya Isaacs and other guest artists. Produced by Adam Steffey.
2008, released Foolin’ Around album (no label).
2012, released Johanna album (no label).
2013, released Country Music Lives On album (no label).

Parmley, Don

Posted on October 9, 2018 by WR

DON PARMLEY

From Monticello, Kentucky. Also lived in California and Virginia.
Began playing banjo at age 12. After learning the Scruggs style, he performed with several groups including Carl Story and Hylo Brown.
1956, after his discharge from the Army (Korean war), he married and moved to Los Angeles, California.
1963, worked with the Golden State Boys in Los Angeles with Vern and Rex Gosdin. The group was also called the Blue Diamond Boys and later, the Hillmen (with Chris Hillman on mandolin).
1963, released “5 String Banjo with 12 String Guitar” album (Crescendo) with backing musicians Billy Strange, LeRoy McNees, Chris Hillman, Vern Gosdin, Rex Gosdin (bass) and Hal Blaine (drums).
1964-1973, played banjo for the TV Series The Beverly Hillbillies.
1974, formed The Bluegrass Cardinals with his 15-year-old son David (guitar), Randy Graham (mandolin) and Bill Bryson (bass). This group performed together in various configurations for 23 years.
1997, retired from music.
2016, passed away at age 83.

Dahl, Walden

Posted on November 20, 2013February 5, 2014 by WR

WALDEN DAHL

From Norco, California (LA area).
Plays mandolin, guitar, fiddle.
Songwriter: his songs have been recorded by Ralph Stanley and Alison Krauss (“So Long, So Wrong”).
Former bands: Lost Highway (1975), The High Window Boys (1977, with Craig Smith and Alison Brown).
Has two bands: the Coyote Brothers, Grey Eagle.
Appeared in the movie “High Lonesome Sound.”

Ragged Union

Posted on May 11, 2015October 6, 2022 by WR

RAGGED UNION

From Golden, Colorado.
Formed in 2013 by Geoff Union (guitar) and his wife Christina (vocals). Other band members: Jordan Ramsey (mandolin), Chris Elliott (banjo), Pat Hoeper (fiddle) and Andrew Bonnis (bass.)
2015, released Hard Row to Hoe album (no label).
2017, released Time Captain album (Shining Castle Music).
2022, released Round Feet, Chrome Smile album (Shining Castle Music).

Kahn, Jonathan (Jon David)

Posted on April 9, 2016April 9, 2016 by WR

JONATHAN KAHN

From Hollywood, California.
He also goes by the name Jon David Kahn.
He is not the same John Kahn who played bass with Old and In the Way (and the Grateful Dead).
He is a screenwriter and country musician who has worked in the Hollywood film industry. His credits include a film called “The Chili Con Carne Club” and the movie “Girl” which was released in 1998.
He also has a country band called The Color Green, with three albums to their credit.
2009, he wrote a song called “American Heart” which became an anthem embraced by the conservative wing of the Republican party (The Tea Party Movement). To protect his identity, he changed his name to Jon David.
2016, after performing the song in Washington D.C. with The Blinky Moon Boys, he decided to release a bluegrass version of it (produced by Aaron Ramsey at Mountain Fever Studios).

Ladin, Evie

Posted on December 6, 2013March 27, 2019 by WR

EVIE LADIN

From Oakland, California (has also lived in New Jersey, Baltimore and Nigeria).
Plays banjo (clawhammer style), sings, step-dances.
Performs solo as well as with the San Francisco-based group The Stairwell Sisters.
2010, released solo project Float Downstream (Evil Diane).
2012, released Evie Ladin Band album (Evil Diane).
2016, released Jump the Fire album (Evil Diane).
2018, released Riding the Rooster album (Evil Diane).
2019, released Caught on a Wire album (Evil Diane).

Kahn, Si

Posted on October 23, 2013January 21, 2016 by LJ

SI KAHN

From Charlotte, North Carolina.
A folksinger/songwriter who is also a social activist in the South. He is executive director of Grassroots Leadership, an organization that works for civil rights, labor unions and the abolition of for-profit prisons. He is also a writer and public speaker on these issues.
2000, released first bluegrass album Been a Long Time (Sliced Bread) with Laurie Lewis, Tom Rozum, Peter Wernick, Sally Van Meter, others.
2002, released Threads album (Strictly Country) with the Kruger Brothers.
2013, released Aragon Mill – The Bluegrass Sessions album (Strictly Country).

Salamander Crossing

Posted on December 31, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

SALAMANDER CROSSING

From Northampton, Massachusetts.
Play “Amphibious Bluegrass,” a blend of bluegrass, folk and rock.
Formed in 1991 by Andrew Kinsey (guitar), Rani Arbo (fiddle), Jeff Kelliher (mandolin), Tim Farnham (banjo). Tony Furtado played banjo in 1995, Dave Dick (formerly with Southern Rail) in 1997.
Got their name from a unique New England phenomenon: Every spring, yellow spotted salamanders make their way from a local hillside to a nearby bog, and must cross a road in the process, a huge media event.
Group owes its existence to John Hartford, who failed to show up at a music workshop he was going to conduct in Massachusetts (1991). Workshop participants decided to just do some impromptu jamming, and that’s when Salamander Crossing was born.
1998, released Bottleneck Dreams album (Signature Sounds).
Disbanded in 1999.

Earl Brothers, The

Posted on November 21, 2013February 4, 2015 by WR

THE EARL BROTHERS

Based in the San Francisco area (although band members are from Virginia, Florida and New York City.)
Formed in 2000 by banjo player Robert Earl Davis (from Richmond, Virgina).
Other members: John McKelvy (guitar), Larry Hughes (mandolin) and Josh Sidman (bass).
They are a full-time touring band and have traveled extensively, including Europe and Australia.
Their music has been called “Honky-Tonk Bluegrass,” “Hillbilly Gothic,” “Neo-traditional” and “Outlaw Hillbilly.”
2004, released album titled Whiskey, Women & Death (no label).
2008, founding member John McKelvy departed.
2012, released Outlaw Hillbilly album (no label).

Fairchild, Raymond

Posted on October 23, 2013July 8, 2023 by LJ

RAYMOND FAIRCHILD

From Maggie Valley, North Carolina.
Called “King of the Smoky Mountain Banjo.”
Born on an Indian reservation in Cherokee, North Carolina.
Performed regularly at the Maggie Valley Opry House—a local country music performing arts center.
Known for his speed on the banjo. “The older I get, the faster I get.”
Known for his deadpan demeanor—he rarely ever smiled on stage.
Once received six standing ovations (in one appearance) at the Grand Ole Opry.
1967-1975, performed with the Maggie Valley Boys.
1975-1991, worked with the Crowe Brothers (who started with the Maggie Valley Boys, then in 1978 changed the name to Raymond Fairchild and the Crowe Brothers.)
Formed the new Maggie Valley Boys, including his son Zane on guitar.
Designed the Cox/Fairchild banjo for the Cox banjo company.
2017, lent his name (and family recipe) to a line of flavored moonshine whiskeys called “Raymond Fairchild White Lightning,” now legally produced by the Elevated Mountain Distillery in Maggie Valley, North Carolina.
2019, died at the age of 80.

RECOMMENDED:

King of the Smoky Mountain Banjo Players (Rural Rhythm, 2015)
Bluegrass Banjo Collection: Best of 18 Rural Rhythm Classics (Rural Rhythm, 2004)
31 Banjo Favorites (Rural Rhythm, 1997)

Railroad Earth

Posted on December 24, 2013November 8, 2024 by WR

RAILROAD EARTH

From Stillwater, New Jersey.
Formed in 2001 by Andy Groessling (banjo), Tim Carbone (fiddle), John Skehan (mandolin), Carey Harmon (percussion), Dave Von Dollen (bass), Todd Schaeffer (guitar).
They are a jam band specializing in roots & Americana music with bluegrass, folk, celtic, rock and jazz thrown into the mix.
Their name was derived from a short story by Jack Kerouac titled “October in the Railroad Earth.”
Lead vocalist Schaeffer was a founding member of a band called “From Good Homes.”
Groessling and Carbone formerly had a group called “The Blue Sparks from Hell.”
2002, released Bird In A House album (Sugar Hill).
2004, released The Good Life album (Sugar Hill).
2006, released Elko album (Sci Fidelity).
2008, released Amen Corner album (Sci Fidelity).
2010, released Railroad Earth album (One Haven).
2014, released Last of the Outlaws album (Black Bear).
2015, released Railroad Earth: Live at Red Rocks album & DVD (Black Bear).
2022, released The Black Bear Sessions album (Black Bear).
2022, released All For the Song album (Black Bear).

Railroaders, The

Posted on April 6, 2016April 17, 2017 by WR

THE RAILROADERS

From the Virginia-North Carolina-Kentucky-Maryland region.
Formed in 2016 by four bluegrass music veterans: Shayne Bartley (mandolin), Darren Beachley (bass), Greg Luck (guitar) and David Carroll (banjo). Former bands include Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, IIIrd Tyme Out, American Drive, Unlimited Tradition, the James King Band and the Darrell Webb Band.
Luck also performs with Alan Bibey and Grasstowne.
2016, disbanded after just a few months together.

Parton, Dolly

Posted on December 22, 2013November 23, 2021 by WR

DOLLY PARTON

From Locust Ridge, Tennessee.
Began her singing career at age 11. Moved to Nashville in 1964 after graduating from high school.
Was introduced to bluegrass music by the Brewster Brothers, Willie and Bud.
1967-1974, worked with Porter Wagoner. Had 14 top ten hits as a duo. Won two CMA awards for Vocal Duo of the Year (1970, 1971).
1969, joined the Grand Ole Opry
1987, recorded “Trio” album with Linda Rondstadt and Emmylou Harris.
Has starred in several movies, including Steel Magnolias, 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
Owns her own record label and TV production company as well as the Dollywood Theme Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Notable hits: “Two Doors Down”, “I Will Always Love You”, “Coat of Many Colors”, “Jolene”, “Islands in the Stream” (with Kenny Rogers).
1975, 1976, won CMA award for Female Vocalist of the Year.
1977, ACM award for Entertainer of the Year.
1978, CMA award for Entertainer of the Year.
1999, Inducted into the County Music Hall of Fame.
2000, released her first all-bluegrass album The Grass Is Blue (Sugar Hill).
2000, she appeared on the IBMA Awards Show where she accepted the award for Album of the Year (for The Grass Is Blue).
2001, won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album (for The Grass Is Blue).
2001, released second bluegrass album Little Sparrow (Sugar Hill).
2002, won the Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for “Shine” from the album Little Sparrow.
2002, released her third bluegrass album Halos & Horns (Sugar Hill).
2004, received the Living Legend Award from the Library of Congress on April 14. Also hosted the CMA awards show.
2004-2006, her touring band was the Grascals.
2005, was presented with the National Medal for the Arts by President George W. Bush (November 10).
2014, released her fourth bluegrass album Blue Smoke album (Sony).

Backline

Posted on March 4, 2018March 18, 2024 by WR

BACKLINE

From Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Formed in 2016 by Katelyn Ingardia (guitar/lead vocals), Travis Tucker (Dobro™), Louise Hughes (mandolin), Zachary Carter (banjo) and Jason Belue (bass).
2017, won the band contest at Renofest in Hartsville, SC.
2017, released debut album “Carolina” (no label).
2017, released “A Thousand Wishes” album (Poor Mountain)
2019, released Salem Town album (Mountain Fever).
2019, Chris Williamson (formerly with Volume 5) replaced Jason Belue on bass; Jacob Connor replaced Louise Hughes on mandolin.
2023, Katelyn Ingardia released a solo project produced by Jeff Partin.
2024, Jacob Carroll replaced Zach Carter on banjo; David Heavener replaced Jacob Connor on mandolin.

Abeels, The

Posted on October 28, 2013May 29, 2021 by WR

THE ABEELS

From Disputanta, Virginia.
A family band featuring Jack and Anne Abeel and their two daughters Amanda and Charity.
Jack and Anne are graphic artists who met in art school. Jack is owner of Jack Abeel Custom Millwork in Disputanta.
1995, released their first album Snowflakes & Diamonds (no label) produced by Missy Raines.
After the family band broke up, Jack Abeel formed a duo with fiddler Margaret Graham and released one album Edging the Grass (no label) with Eddie and Martha Adcock.

Hackensaw Boys, The

Posted on October 23, 2013September 9, 2016 by LJ

THE HACKENSAW BOYS

From Charlottesville, Virginia.
Formed in 1999, playing at the Blue Moon Diner in Charlottesville.
A young jamgrass band that performs all-original bluegrass/country/folk music with a cast of players that sometime runs a dozen strong.
Band member go by their nicknames: Pee Paw, Shiner, Mahlon, the Kooky-eyed Fox, Dante J. and Salvage.
2001, started touring in a 1964 GMC touring bus called the Dirty Bird. There were 12 people in the group at that time.
2002, toured with rockers Modest Mouse. Released Keep It Simple album (no label)
2003, they were Charlie Louvin’s backup band on a national tour.
2003, opened the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival (Manchester, Tennessee).
2004, toured the Netherlands.
2012, released Love What You Do album (Nettwerk).
2013, released Look Out! album (Nettwerk)
2016, released Charismo album (Free Dirt).

Gadd, Pam

Posted on November 27, 2013February 27, 2015 by WR

PAM GADD

From Independence, Kentucky. Lives in Nashville.
First band: “East of Denver” (in high school).
1983, joined the New Coon Creek Girls.
1987, formed country group Wild Rose.
1996, toured with Patty Loveless, playing guitar and singing harmony. While with Patty, she appeared on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with David Letterman, Hee Haw, other TV shows.
1995, returned to the New Coon Creek Girls.
1996, embarked on solo career.
1997, released first solo album Long Road (Vanguard).
1999, was a final nominee for IBMA’s Emerging Artist of the Year award.
2001, joined staff of OMS Records, doing promotion.
Hobby: Reading and studying naturopathic nutritional healing and theology
2002-2007, sang and played with Porter Wagoner on the Grand Ole Opry.
2009, released solo project Benefit of Doubt (Home Sweet Highway).

Ickes, Rob

Posted on October 23, 2013April 1, 2023 by LJ

ROB ICKES

From Millbrae, California. Lives in Nashville.
Ickes is pronounced the same as “likes.”
First band: “Heartland” with Tony Furtado; also had a band in college called “Colusa” with Todd Phillips (named after a California gold-mining town).
Went to UC Davis and studied to become a veterinarian. Has a BA in biology.
Has toured with Weary Hearts, the Lynn Morris Band, Alison Krauss, others.
1994, joined Blue Highway and has remained with this band throughout his career.
1997, appeared in Steven Seagal movie “The Fire Down Below.”
1997, released first solo project Hard Times (Rounder Records).
2002, released What It Is album (Rounder Records).
2004, released Big Time album (Rounder Records).
2005, formed a jazz trio with Andy Leftwich and Dave Pomeroy called Three Ring Circle.
2009, released Slide City album (Rounder).
2009, released Road Song album (ResoRevolution).
2013, won his 15th IBMA Award for Dobro™ Player of the Year. He also won in 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012.
2013, formed a duo with singer/guitarist Trey Hensley.
2014, released an album with Dobro™ masters Jerry Douglas and Mike Auldridge (now deceased) called Three Bells (Rounder).
2015, released Before the Sun Goes Down album with Trey Hensley (Compass Records). It was nominated for a Grammy Award (2016) in the Bluegrass category.
2015, he announced his departure from Blue Highway (after 20 years).
2016, released The Country Blues album with Trey Hensley (Compass Records).
2019, released World Full of Blues album with Trey Hensley (Compass Records).
2021, recorded an EP with guitarists Tommy Emmanuel and Trey Hensley.
2023, released Living in a Song album with Trey Hensley (Compass Records).

Hagar’s Mountain Boys

Posted on November 30, 2013March 1, 2015 by WR

HAGAR’S MOUNTAIN BOYS

From Roxboro, North Carolina.
Formed in 2006.
Members: Ricky Stroud (mandolin), Blake Johnson (bass), Mike Johnson (guitar), Cliff Smith (banjo), David Nance (Dobro™). Nance formerly played with Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
2010, released Forever Yours album (Mountain Fever).
2011, released Where’s The Lonesome album (Mountain Fever).

OBrien, Tim and Mollie

Posted on December 21, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

TIM AND MOLLIE O’BRIEN

From Wheeling, West Virginia.
Brother and sister duo; have sung together since childhood.
1967, won a talent contest in Wheeling performing as “Hardship and Perseverance.” The following year, they won it again as “The Katzenjammer Kids.” Next year, they won it a third time as the “Campbell Soup Kids.”
Tim is a well-known bluegrass artist (best known for his work with Hot Rize and The Earls of Leicester). Mollie studied voice in college and has performed opera and musical theatre.
1992, released Remember Me album (Sugar Hill).
1994, toured South America for the U.S. Information Agency.

OBryant, Alan

Posted on December 21, 2013June 29, 2024 by WR

ALAN O’BRYANT

From Reidsville, North Carolina. Lives in Pegram, Tennessee (near Nashville).
Grew up with cousins Billy and Terry Smith who also lived in Reidsville. Learned to play banjo as a teenager.
1974, moved to Nashville and began performing with James Monroe and the Midnight Ramblers. Also did some fill-in dates with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1979, joined The Front Porch String Band with Claire Lynch in Birmingham, Alabama.
1980, after graduating from engineering school, he worked in Nashville for a cash register company.
1982, played guitar with The Bluegrass Band, a project band led by banjo player Butch Robins.
1984, formed the Nashville Bluegrass Band.
Among his songwriting credits: “Those Memories of You” was recorded by Bill and James Monroe, Pam Tillis and “The Trio” (Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris). Also “The Other Side of Life,” which was recorded by Emmylou Harris, John Starling and others. It was sung by Vince Gill at Earl Scruggs’ memorial service.
Trademark singing style: holds the head of the banjo up near the microphone while he sings “into” the banjo. According to O’Bryant, he originally did it to get the weight of the banjo off his diaphragm, thus giving him more vocal control. But he noticed that the “echo” effect also helped him to stay on pitch.
1995, received the Heritage Award from the Charlotte (NC) Folk Music Society for his role in preserving his home state’s traditional music.
2019, performed his last show with the Nashville Bluegrass Band. Since then he has been teaching banjo out of his home studio in Pegram, Tennessee. He also performs occasional dates with various pick-up bands in the Nashville area.

Salazar, Phil

Posted on October 28, 2013November 1, 2021 by WR

PHIL SALAZAR (AND THE KINFOLK)

From Ventura, California.
A veteran Southern California fiddler who has been a performer and studio musician since the early 1970’s. He has taught music, owned a music store and has fronted several bands including the Phil Salazar Band, the Acousticats, The Rincon Ramblers and Phil Salazar and the Kinfolk.
He has also toured with John McEwen and Bob Weir (of the Grateful Dead).
1982, released “Down at Evangelina’s” album (The Acousticats, no label).
1989, released The Phil Salazar Band album (Flying Fish).
2013, released LIfe on the Edge album (Filzar).
2019, released Project 1, Part 3 album (Filzar).
2021, released “All That! For This?” album (Filzar).
2021, band members include Tom Corbett (guitar), Bill Knopf (banjo), Bill Flores (reso guitar), Rick Borella (bass) and Elizabeth Rizor (fiddle).

Wakefield, Frank

Posted on January 6, 2014April 29, 2024 by WR

FRANK WAKEFIELD

From Emory Gap, Tennessee, near Knoxville. Lives in Upstate New York.
Full name: Franklin Delano Roosevelt Wakefield.
Known for his technical virtuosity on the mandolin. Influenced David Grisman and many other mandolin players. One of the first to play jazz on the instrument.
Learned to play music in rural pentecostal “snake-handling” churches around east Tennessee.
Grew up on a farm and never went to school. He learned to read and write when he was 28 years old.
Hidden talent: he can talk backwards.
1957, at age 19, moved to Dayton, Ohio and met Red Allen. They formed a group called the Blue Ridge Mountain Boys.
1958, worked for a short time with Jimmy Martin.
1958, he and Red Allen formed The Kentuckians.
1959, briefly worked with the Stanley Brothers.
1960, with Red Allen, re-assembled the Kentuckians, this time in Baltimore. Other personnel included banjo players Bill Keith, Don Reno, Bill Emerson, Pete Kuykendall, Eric Weissberg; also fiddlers Chubby Wise, Scott Stoneman, others.
1964-68, joined the Greenbriar Boys. While with the Greenbriar Boys, he was seriously injured in an auto accident, putting him in a coma for more than a month.
He has recorded several albums as a duo with Red Allen.
1972, released self titled album (Rounder) and began performing as a solo artist.
1978, released “Frank Wakefield and the Good Old Boys” album (Flying Fish).
1980, released “End of the Rainbow” album (Bay).
1997, released “That Was Now … This is Then” album (Rosewoodl).
2000, released “Midnight on the Mandolin” (Patuxent).
2011, released Tribute to Bill Monroe album (Patuxent).
2013, released Frank Wakefield, Taylor Baker & Friends (Patuxent).
2024, died at the age of 89.

Jackson Hollow

Posted on July 2, 2021August 27, 2022 by WR

JACKSON HOLLOW

From British Columbia (Canada).
A band featuring the lead vocals of Tianna Lefebvre. Other members of the group include Mike Sanyshyn (fiddle, mandolin), Charlie Frie (bass) and Eric Reed (guitar, banjo). Sanyshyn and Lefebvre are husband and wife.
They have three times won the BCCMA Gaylord Wood Traditional Country Award (British Columbia Country Music Association).
Lefebvre has also won female vocalist of the year at the BCCMA Awards. She has also worked with Shania Twain.
Sanyshyn was a top 3 finalist at the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Championship and has won the BCCMA award for Fiddle Player of the Year.
2021, signed with Mountain Fever Records.

Fairview Avenue

Posted on November 23, 2013May 4, 2021 by WR

FAIRVIEW AVENUE

From Albany, New York.
Formed in 2006 by Scott and Elizabeth Hopkins (banjo/bass). Other members: Tony Califano (mandolin) and Morrie Safford (guitar), Brig McCutcheon (guitar)and Joe Gumpper (fiddle).
The band is named after the street the Hopkins live on.
Hopkins is a public school band teacher. He plays the tuba.
2010, released first album Fairview Avenue (no label).
2012, Hopkins released a solo banjo project and joined Junior Barber’s group Beartracks.

Dailey, Jamie

Posted on October 23, 2013October 17, 2022 by LJ

JAMIE DAILEY

From Gainesboro, Tennessee. He was born in Corbin, Kentucky.
Began singing with his family at age 3.
Age 9, began playing bass with family band “The Four J’s.” Age 12, played banjo with them.
Age 15, joined Cumberland Connection.
Age 18, Clear Creek.
1996, age 21, formed Highland Rim.
1998, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver
2002, formed a web site development company called Ciphertek Entertainment, specializing in bluegrass artist web sites
2007, left Doyle Lawson to form a new band “Dailey & Vincent” with Darrin Vincent.

Railsplitters, The

Posted on January 18, 2014October 17, 2022 by WR

THE RAILSPLITTERS

From Boulder, Colorado.
Formed in 2012 by Lauren Stovall (guitar/lead vocals), Dusty Rider (banjo), Peter Sharpe (mandolin), and Leslie Ziegler (bass). Ziegler was later replaced by Jean-Luc Davis (bass). Joe Esposito (fiddle) also joined the group.
2013, won the band contest at Rockygrass.
2013, released first album The Railsplitters (no label).
2015, released The Faster It Goes album (no label).
2017, released Jump In album (no label).
2018, disbanded temporarility. Stovall and Sharpe got married and moved to Costa Rica. Rider became a pilot for a charter airline. Davis worked with the Jeff Austin Band.
2019, reunited and began working on new music.

Bad Livers, The

Posted on October 23, 2013November 2, 2021 by LJ

THE BAD LIVERS

Originally from Austin, Texas.
A fusion of Tex-Mex, cajun, reggae, rock, blues, country and bluegrass. Band includes an accordion, drums and a tuba. Their music is sometimes called “bluegrass-punk” or “thrash-bluegrass.”
Formed in 1990 by banjo/guitar player Danny Barnes, who wrote most of the band’s material. Other members: Ralph White (fiddle) and Mark Rubin (bass).
2001, the group disbanded.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Dust on the Bible (Quarter Stick, 1992)
Delusions of Banjer (Quarter Stick, 1992)
Horses in the Mines (Quarter Stick, 1994)
Hogs on the Highway (Sugar Hill, 1997)
Industry & Thrift (Sugar Hill, 1998)
Blood & Mood (Sugar Hill, 2000)

Bailey, Brittany

Posted on November 1, 2013April 5, 2022 by WR

BRITTANY BAILEY

From Junction City (near Eugene), Oregon.
At age 12, performed on stage with Alison Krauss and Union Station.
1996, sang with an Oregon band, Blue River.
1997, formed group called Severin and Bailey.
After moving to Nashville, she made guest appearances with Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time, The Sidemen, The Roland White Band, The John Cowan Band and others.
2004, released first self-titled solo project.

Jackson, Carl

Posted on December 1, 2013April 21, 2023 by WR

CARL JACKSON

From Philadelphia, Mississippi. Lives in Nashville.
Best known for his virtuosity on banjo and guitar, he is also a very successful vocalist, songwriter and record producer.
First band: The Country Partners with his father Lee Jackson, his Uncle Pete and Uncle Sock.
1967, began his professional musical career at age 14, playing banjo with Jim and Jesse.
1971, joined the Sullivan Family gospel group.
1972, moved to Columbus, Ohio to form The Country Store with Keith Whitley and Jimmy Gaudreau.
1973-1985, worked with Glen Campbell, replacing Larry McNeeley on Campbell’s TV show. He was billed as “The Greatest Banjo Player in the World” in Campbell’s live shows.
1973, released Carl Jackson: Banjo Player album (Capitol).
1980, released Banjo Man: A Tribute to Earl Scruggs album (Sugar Hill).
1980, released Songs Of The South album (Sugar Hill).
1983, released Banjo Hits album (Sugar Hill).
1990, won IBMA Award for Song of the Year for his composition, “Little Mountain Church House.
1991, released Spring Training album (Sugar Hill), a collaboration with former Seldom Scene vocalist John Starling and Emmy Lou Harris’ band, The Nash Ramblers.
1992, won the Grammy Award for best bluegrass album (for Spring Training).
2004, won IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year as producer of “Livin’ Lovin’ Losin: the Songs of the Louvin Brothers.” This album also won Carl a second Grammy Award the same year.
As a songwriter, he has written dozens of hit songs for other artists including “Against the Grain” (Garth Brooks), “Real Ladies Man” (Vince Gill) and “Letter to Home” (Glen Campbell). His songs have sold more than 40 million records.
He is a collector of baseball memorabilia, cars (like his 1957 Ford T-Bird given to him by Glen Campbell) and claims to be the “biggest Ole Miss Rebel fan in the world.”
2003, won a Grammy Award for the album Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’: Songs of the Louvin Brothers (Universal), which he produced.
2006, inducted into the Mississippi Music Hall of Fame.
2013, released Grace Notes (Voxhall), a guitar instrumental album featuring guitars from his personal collection.
2015, produced Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited album (Sony Legacy), a tribute to the “Big Bang” of Country Music.

Bailey, Caleb

Posted on May 1, 2021June 17, 2022 by WR

CALEB BAILEY

From Grottoes, Virginia (Shenandoah Valley)
Mid-2000’s, played in a band called Allegheny Blue.
Grew up in a musical family. His great uncle played steel and Dobro™ with such artists as Tom T. Hall and Eddie Rabbit.
With his bluegrass band, he performs as Caleb Bailey and Paine’s Run. They are: Bailey (guitar), Rob Slusser (banjo), Brandon Kyle (bass), Joe Showalter (fiddle), Chandler Beavers (mandolin) and Wyatt Wood (guitar).
2021, released solo project “Poplar and Pine” (no label) featuring his original songs, produced by Gaven Largent.

Salley, Jerry

Posted on December 31, 2013August 9, 2024 by WR

JERRY SALLEY

From Chillicothe, Ohio. Lives in Nashville.
Began his music career in Nashville working at Opryland USA doing impressions of country stars like Roy Acuff, Jimmie Rodgers, Eddy Arnold and Lester Flatt. His partner who impersonated Earl Scruggs was a young Steven Curtis Chapman, who later became a well-known Christian artist).
Best known as a songwriter. His original songs have been recorded by such artists as Loretta Lynn, the Oak Ridge Boys, Patty Loveless, Reba McIntyre, Brad Paisley, Toby Keith, Chris Stapleton, Doyle Lawson and many others. One of his gospel songs “His Strength Is Perfect” has been published in several church hymnbooks.
As a solo artist, he has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, Late Night with David Letterman, The Today Show.
2004, he performed on the IBMA Award-winning “Livin, Lovin’ & Losin’: Tribute to the Louvin Brothers” CD (in a trio with Carl Jackson and Larry Cordle.)
2003, won the SESAC “Country Music Songwriter of the Year” award.
2007, released New Songs Old Friends album (Mountain Home) featuring guest artists Vince Gill, Del McCoury, Doyle Lawson, Ricky Skaggs, the Oak Ridge Boys and Rhonda Vincent.
He is one of the founding partners and producers at Billy Blue Records.
2012, released Showing My Age album (Very Jerry).
2015, released Gospel From My Grass Roots album (Very Jerry).
2017, released Front Porch Philosophy album (Very Jerry).
2019, released All God’s Children Sing album (Very Jerry).
2019, won his second IBMA Award for Songwriter of the Year (also won in 2018).
2020, released Bridges and Backroads album (Very Jerry).
2021, released “A Very Jerry Family Christmas” album (Very Jerry).
2024, released The Songwriter album (Very Jerry)
2024, he was inducted into the Ohio Country Music Hall of Fame.

Lake, Tim

Posted on December 6, 2013November 25, 2015 by WR

TIM LAKE

From New York City. Lives in Lexington, Kentucky.
Plays bluegrass, jazz, pop, country and rock, all on the banjo.
1991, earned his doctorate in music from the University of Kentucky. His dissertation was titled “An American Concerto for 5-string Banjo and Orchestra.”
1993, performed his concerto with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
1995, released Jazz with Bluegrass & Blues album (Padraig Records).
Performs with a trio called The Little Big Band.

Dailey and Vincent

Posted on November 20, 2013January 3, 2022 by WR

DAILEY & VINCENT

From Nashville.
Formed in 2007 by Jamie Dailey (a former member of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver) and Darrin Vincent (a former member of Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder).
Darrin Vincent is the younger brother of Rhonda Vincent. As youngsters, they performed together in their family band The Sally Mountain Show.
2008, released first project Dailey & Vincent (Rounder Records) and made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.
2008, won an unprecedented six IBMA awards in their first year of eligibility: Entertainer of the Year, Emerging Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year (Jamie) and Gospel Recording of the Year (for “By the Mark”).
2009, released Brothers From Different Mothers album (Rounder).
2009, released Singing From the Heart album (Rounder), an acapella gospel project.
2009, won IBMA awards for Entertainer of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year and Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year (for “On the Other Side”).
2010, released Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers album (Cracker Barrel/Rounder).
2010, won IBMA awards for Entertainer of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year and Album of the Year.
2011, released The Gospel Side of Dailey & Vincent album (Cracker Barrel/Rounder).
2011, added band members B.J. Cherryholmes (fiddle,) Jessie Baker (banjo) and Jeff Parker (vocals and mandolin) and Christian Davis (bass vocals).
CMT dubbed them “The Rockstars of Bluegrass.”
2013, released Brothers of the Highway album (Rounder).
2014, added Seth Taylor to the band, playing lead and rhythm guitar.
2014, won their fourth GMA Dove Award for Bluegrass Song of the Year (“Won’t It Be Wonderful There”).
2014, won the IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year (“Won’t It Be Wonderful There”).
2015, released Alive! In Concert album (Cracker Barrel)
2015, began hosting “The Dailey & Vincent Show” on RFD-TV.
2016, made their 100th appearance on the Grand Ole Opry on December 30th (also the 10th anniversary of their forming their act) on December 30th. It was also announced that evening that they would be inducted as members of the Opry.
2017, were officially inducted as members of the Opry on March 11.
2017, released Patriots & Poets album (BFD).
2018, added new band member Gavin Largent (banjo/Dobro™), replacing Jessie Baker.
2021, added new band member Ben James (guitar/vocals), formerly with Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver.

Waldrep, Gary

Posted on January 6, 2014April 9, 2020 by WR

GARY WALDREP BAND

From Kilpatrick, Alabama.
Formed in 1998.
1981-1989, Waldrep performed with the Warrior River Boys (plays banjo).
1989, helped form the Sand Mountain Boys.
Hosts an annual bluegrass festival on his Alabama farm every year.
2010, released “Road Leading Home” album on Blue Circle Records.

Earle, Steve

Posted on November 21, 2013February 4, 2015 by WR

STEVE EARLE

Born in Fort Monroe, Virginia; grew up in the San Antonio, Texas area.
1974, moved to Nashville to write songs.
Mid-80’s, recorded for Epic Records, scored several hit records, including “Guitar Town (1986),” and “Goodbye’s All We Got Left” (1987).
He has won three Grammies and has had songs recorded by Travis Tritt, Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, many others.
1988-1994, went rock and recorded several albums which were generally ignored by country radio. He became something of a cult figure. He has had several run-ins with the law, including a drug charge.
1998, recorded a bluegrass album called Mountain and toured with the Del McCoury Band. This was his only foray into bluegrass music.

Yates, Bill

Posted on October 23, 2013January 22, 2024 by LJ

BILL YATES

From Washington, DC.
Played bass with the Country Gentlemen from 1969 to 1989.
2005, formed a new band “Bill Yates and Friends” to perform the songs of the Country Gentlemen. The group features the lead vocals of Mike Phipps, who sounds remarkably like the late Charlie Waller. Other band members: Darren Beachley (guitar), Kevin Church (banjo), Dave Propst (mandolin), Mark Clifton (Dobro™), Terry Pearson (bass). Eventually the band came to be known as the The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band.
2006, recorded “Country Gentlemen Tribute” album.
2009, recorded “Country Gentlemen Tribute, Volume II” album.
2015, died at the age of 78.

OConnor, Mark (The O’Connor Band)

Posted on December 21, 2013February 13, 2017 by WR

MARK O’CONNOR

From Seattle, Washington. Has lived in Nashville and San Diego, California. Currently lives in New York City.
He was a child prodigy. He could identify specific classical composers at age 3.
Began playing guitar at age 6. Began violin lessons at age 11. Seven months later, won second place at the National Old-Time Fiddle Championships in Weiser, Idaho.
Appeared on the Grand Ole Opry when he was 12 years old. He was introduced by Roy Acuff.
By age 14, had won two National Junior Fiddle Championships, One Grand Masters Fiddle Championship, and the National Guitar Flatpicking Championship (Winfield, Kansas). After his victory at Winfield the rules were changed—making contestants wait at least five years before they could win the championship a second time. (He did.)
1979, toured Japan with Dan Crary.
1980, joined The David Grisman Quintet, but left after breaking his arm in a skiing accident. 1981, joined an electric band called The Dregs—formerly The Dixie Dregs.
Has performed at Carnegie Hall with Stephane Grappelli, David Grisman and cellist Yoyo Ma.
1983, embarked on a solo career, performing and recording with a wide variety of artists in just about every musical category.
1991, won the CMA award for his album New Nashville Cats (Warner Brothers).
1991-1996, won the CMA award six consecutive years for Musician of the Year.
1991, wrote his first violin concerto.
1993, toured with Marty Stuart and Travis Tritt for their “No Hats Tour.” This tour marked his farewell to country music. He has focused on classical music ever since.
1993, released Heroes album (Warner Brothers).
Most important musical influence: Texas-style fiddler Benny Thomasson.
1999, moved to Southern California and began conducting fiddle camps at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
2004, released Thirty Year Retrospective album (OMAC) with Chris Thile (mandolin), Bryan Sutton (guitar), Byron House (bass).
2009, released String Quartets Nos. 2 & 3 album (OMAC) featuring String Quartet No. 2 “Bluegrass” and String Quartet No. 3 “Old Time.”
2010, released Jam Session album (OMAC), combining bluegrass with Gypsy Jazz.
2011, released An Appalachian Christmas album (OMAC).
2015, released Duo album with his wife Maggie (OMAC).
2016, released Coming Home album (Rounder) by The O’Connor Band with Mark O’Connor featuring his wife Maggie (fiddle), son Forrest (vocals/mandolin) and Forrest’s partner Kate Lee (vocals/fiddle). The band also includes Joe Smart (guitar) and Geoff Saunders (bass).
2017, won the Grammy Award for Coming Home album (Rounder).

Waldron, Cliff

Posted on January 6, 2014July 3, 2024 by WR

CLIFF WALDRON

From Northern Virginia; originally from Jolo, West Virginia.
1964-66, played with a group called the Page Valley Boys.
1967, began professional musical career with Bill Emerson. Emerson and Waldron recorded several albums for Rebel Records, and was the first to record the Manfred Mann song “Fox on the Run” in a bluegrass style.
Worked briefly with The Shenandoah Cutups before forming The New Shades of Grass (1968-74), a group that recorded seven albums for Rebel Records.
1974, went to work for the National Park Service full time.
1975, became a devout Christian and formed a gospel band.
1985, had severe health problems which resulted in a kidney transplant.
1996, retired from the National Park Service and returned to playing bluegrass music.
2001, recorded a gospel album with Paul Williams called “Higher Ground.”
2021, he was presented with the IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.

Abernathy, Barry

Posted on July 19, 2018February 26, 2021 by WR

BARRY ABERNATHY

From Georgia.
A banjo player with a remarkable ability to play Scruggs-style banjo despite a birth defect which left him with no fingers on his left hand, just a thumb and several partial digits.
1993, joined Silver Creek.
1994, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1997, joined IIIrd Tyme Out.
1998, was a founding member of Mountain Heart.
2014, left Mountain Heart to strike out on his own.
2016, had surgery to repair nerve damage in his neck, which hindered his playing.
2018, teamed up with Darrell Webb (guitar/mandolin) to form Appalachian Road Show.
2019, he and his wife adopted a pair of siblings from a foster care facility including a youngster with the same birth defect on his hand as Barry. The story of the Abernathy family was then featured in a 2020 story on NBC’s The Today Show and also on the syndicated Mike Huckabee television program.
2021, released Barry Abernathy and Friends album (Billy Blue).

Abrams Brothers, The

Posted on October 23, 2013October 20, 2014 by LJ

THE ABRAMS BROTHERS

From Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
John Abrams (born 1990) performs on fiddle, mandolin and guitar.
James Abrams (born 1993) performs on fiddle, mandolin and acoustic bass.
They are fourth generation musicians. They credit their great-grandparents with passing on their musical talent.
2003, won the Thomas Point Beach (Maine) band competition. The name of the band at that time was “The Abrams Family and Clarendon Station.”
Their grandparents and great-grandparents performed in a gospel group called “The Missionaries.”
The current band includes a master of the mandolin and guitar, Bob Burtch, and three generations of the Abrams family: grandfather Wayne (singer, songwriter and luthier), father Brian and the boys.
2005, made first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry as guests of Mike Snider.
2005, won “Emerging Artist of the Year” (Canadian Bluegrass Music Awards) and were the youngest Canadian band to ever play the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
2006, released Iron Sharpens Iron album.
2006, performed at the European World of Bluegrass in the Netherlands.
2012, released Northern Redemption album.
2014, released Blue on Brown album featuring covers of Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie songs.

Macon, Uncle Dave

Posted on October 23, 2013August 6, 2019 by LJ

UNCLE DAVE MACON

From Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
One of the Grand Ole Opry’s first superstars.
1926, joined the Opry at the age of 56. His last Opry performance was March 1, 1952.
He was a vaudeville entertainer who took his act to the Opry and was one of the first to popularize the five-string banjo as a featured instrument.
Nickname: “The Dixie Dewdrop.”
Before joining the Opry, he ran a freight line from Murfreesboro to Woodbury Tennessee—two wagons with three mules pulling each wagon.
1952, died at the age of 81.
Elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1966.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Go Long Mule (County, 1995)
Country Music Hall of Fame: Uncle Dave Macon (MCA, 1992)

Talbot, David

Posted on October 23, 2013January 1, 2014 by LJ

DAVID TALBOT

From Canada. Moved to Nashville in 1997.
1998-2003, played banjo with Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time.
Has also worked with Marty Raybon, Reba McIntyre and Dolly Parton.
One of Nashville’s “A-list” studio musicians.
2004, formed the Grascals with Terry Eldridge, Jamie Johnson, Jimmy Mattingly, Danny Roberts and Terry Smith.
2006, left the Grascals to work full-time with Dolly Parton.

Maddox, Rose

Posted on December 18, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

ROSE MADDOX

From Boaz, Alabama.
Full name: Roselea Arbana Maddox.
Moved with her family to California in 1933 in search of a better life. They traveled by hitching rides in empty railroad boxcars. When they arrived in California, the only work they could find was as migrant “fruit tramps” working the fields and orchards up and down the fertile valleys of California.
1937, began performing with her brothers as “The Maddox Brothers and Rose,” one of country music’s most successful acts (broke up in 1956).
Voted best female country vocalist by both Billboard and Cashbox magazines. She became known as “The Queen of the West.”
After launching her solo career, she formed a band called The Foggy Notion Band. In her words, “I never had the foggiest notion that I would ever have my own band.”
1962, recorded Rose Maddox Sings Bluegrass (Capitol) which is widely believed to be the first bluegrass album released by a female vocalist. Side musicians on the album included Bill Monroe, Don Reno and Red Smiley.
1980, released This Is Rose Maddox album (Arhoolie) with the Vern Williams Band.
1983, released Beautiful Bouquet album (Arhoolie) with the Vern Williams Band.
Rose has been the subject of several television specials and one book: Ramblin’ Rose: The Life and Career of Rose Maddox by Johnny Whiteside (Country Music Foundation).
Died April 15, 1998.

LakeSide

Posted on September 18, 2019September 18, 2019 by WR

LAKESIDE

From Madisonville, Tennessee.
Began as a family band in 1995 called The Gospel Bluegrass Boys. In 2007, after some band member changes, the name of the group was changed to LakeSide.
Members in 2019 include: Greg Blankenship (mandolin), Lucas Blankenship (percussion), Jackie Cummings (bass), John Robert Freels (banjo), Walt Williamson (guitar).
2019, released Moving On album (Morning Glory), produced by Aaron Ramsey.

Tashian, Barry and Holly

Posted on January 1, 2014October 17, 2022 by WR

BARRY AND HOLLY TASHIAN

From Nashville.
A husband-and-wife duo who perform old-time country duets.
1964, Barry formed a rock band called Barry and the Remains, a successful group that opened for the Beatles final U.S. tour.
Became friends with the late Gram Parsons, fell in love with country music.
1970’s, Barry and Holly sang together in an electric country band called The Outskirts.
1980-89, Barry replaced Ricky Skaggs in Emmylou Harris’ Hot Band.
Have performed on the Grand Ole Opry and Garrison Keillor’s “Prairie Home Companion” radio show.
Barry and Holly grew up in Westport, Connecticut, went to the same high school and double-dated together—each dating someone else. They married in 1972.
1993, released Ready for Love album (Rounder).
1994, released Straw Into Gold album (Rounder).
1997, released Harmony album (Rounder).
2002, released At Home album (Copper Creek).
2008, released Long Story Short album (Rock-a-lot).

Raines, Missy

Posted on December 24, 2013January 22, 2024 by WR

MISSY RAINES

From Short Gap, West Virginia. Lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Real name: Melissa Kay Raines Surratt (also plays a Kay bass!)
Has played bass with many bands including Stars and Bars, Cloud Valley, The Eddie Adcock Band, The Brother Boys, Claire Lynch and the Front Porch String Band.
1997-2007, worked as a duo with guitarist Jim Hurst, both of whom were also members of the Claire Lynch Band.
1998, recorded first solo project My Place in the Sun (no label).
2000, released Two album with Jim Hurst (Pinecastle).
2007, formed her own band called Missy Raines and the New Hip (a reference to her recent hip surgery).
2009, released first “New Hip” album Inside Out (Compass).
2012, formed a band with David Grier, Mike Compton and Shad Cobb called The Helen Highwater String Band.
2013, released New Frontier album with The New Hip (Compass).
2018, released “Swept Away” (single, Compass) with “The First Ladies of Bluegrass,” Sierra Hull (mandolin), Alison Brown (banjo), Becky Buller (fiddle) and Molly Tuttle (guitar). Each were the first women to win IBMA Awards in their respective instrument categories.
2018, won the IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year (for “Swept Away.”)
2018, released Royal Traveller album (Compass).
2019, won her eighth IBMA Award for Bass Player of the Year (also won in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2006, 2007.)
2019, won IBMA Award for Instrumental Recording of the Year for “Darling Pal of Mine” (with Alison Brown, Mike Bub, and Todd Phillips).
2021, began performing with her new band “Missy Raines and Allegheny,” a return to her bluegrass roots.
2023, released Highlander album (Compass).

Dana and Lauren

Posted on November 20, 2013 by WR

DANA AND LAUREN (SEE THE SCHANKMAN TWINS)

Earls of Leicester, The

Posted on November 21, 2013October 25, 2023 by WR

THE EARLS OF LEICESTER

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Pronounced “The Earls of Lester.”
A bluegrass supergroup formed by Jerry Douglas to pay tribute to the music of Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys. They re-enact the songs of Flatt and Scruggs by performing them in similar costumes and choreography.
Band members (2013): Jerry Douglas (Uncle Josh Graves/Dobro™), Tim O’Brien (Curly Seckler/mandolin), Shawn Camp (Lester Flatt/guitar), Johnny Warren (Paul Warren/fiddle), Charlie Cushman (Earl Scruggs/banjo) and Barry Bales (Jake Tullock/bass.) Subbing for O’Brien (who is also a member of Hot Rize): Shawn Lane, Ronnie McCoury and Frank Solivan.
While the name of the band is a pun, there have been many actual Earls of Leicester in Great Britain, part of the English “peer system” of dukes and earls which bestows automatic membership in the House of Lords. The current “7th Earl of Leicester” is Edward Douglas Coke, b. 1936. His heir apparent is Robert Edward Coke, b. 1965.
2014, released their debut album Earls of Leicester on Rounder Records.
2015, won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album.
2015, Jeff White took over the mandolin (Curly Seckler) spot in the band.
2015, won IBMA Awards for Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year, Instrumental Group of the Year and Gospel Recording of the Year.
2016, released Rattle & Roar album (Rounder).
2017, won their third consecutive IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.
2018, released Live in the CMA Theatre in the Country Music Hall of Fame album (Rounder).
2022, Daniel Kimbro took over the bass (Jake Tullock) spot in the band.

Rambler’s Choice

Posted on December 24, 2013 by WR

RAMBLER’S CHOICE (SEE JUNIOR SISK)

Sally Mountain Show, The

Posted on December 31, 2013July 1, 2019 by WR

THE SALLY MOUNTAIN SHOW

From Kirksville, Missouri.
Stage name used by the Vincent family bluegrass band: Johnny Vincent (banjo), Carolyn (bass); sons Darrin and Brian (guitar and mandolin respectively), and daughter Rhonda (lead vocals, mandolin and fiddle).
1967, began performing on their own TV show called “The Sally Mountain Show” which eventually became the band’s name. They were called The Sally Mountain Singers on their first album.
The name “Sally Mountain” comes from a mountain near Worthington, Missouri which the local people called Sally’s Mountain, named after Sally Mosely, an old time fiddler who lived on the mountain and claimed to have written the fiddle tune “Sally Goodin'”.
They performed at many prestigious venues including the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and the Lincoln Center in New York City.
Recorded four albums on their own label (Stardust) in the 1980’s.
2003, reunited to record “A Family Tradition” album. Rhonda and Darrin performed on the album as did Jamie Dailey and Stuart Duncan.
They host an annual bluegrass festival in Sally Mountain Park near Queen City, Missouri.
2014, Johnny Vincent died after a long illness at the age of 73.

Falco, Andy

Posted on November 23, 2013February 13, 2015 by WR

ANDY FALCO

Lives in Nashville.
1996-1999, played guitar and sang lead with The Water Street Blues Band (later WaterStreet) combining Blues, Funk, Jazz, R&B, Country, Gospel and Bluegrass.
2000-2004, worked with Buddy Merriam and Back Roads.
2004, joined Alicia Nugent’s band. Also worked with Bradley Walker, Malibu Storm, other bands.
2007, joined the Infamous Stringdusters, replacing Chris Eldridge (who joined Chris Thile’s band)
2007, released first solo project Sentenced To Life With The Blues (FGM Records).

Patent Pending

Posted on December 22, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

PATENT PENDING

From the Washington, DC area.
Formed in 1979 by Eldred Hill, Jim Steptoe, Rusty Williams, Leigh Taylor.
1980, began playing Wednesday nights at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA (the Seldom Scene played there on Thursdays.)
1990, group was disbanded as a full-time group.
1992, re-formed with Steptoe, Hill, Teri Chism, Wayne Lanham, Ed Barney.
2009, Steptoe died.
There is also a pop-punk band with the same name.

Zenkl, Radim

Posted on October 23, 2013August 14, 2016 by LJ

RADIM ZENKL

From Czechoslavakia (defected to the U.S. four months before the fall of Communism). Lives in Oakland, California.
Billed as “The only musician in the world performing original, solo mandolin music.”
Has worked with Jerry Garcia, David Grisman, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Tim O’Brien, Peter Rowan, Psychograss, others.
1984, won the national mandolin championship (Czechoslavakia).
1992, won the national mandolin championship (U.S.A) in Winfield, Kansas.
1992, released Galactic Mandolin album (Acoustic Disc)
1994, released Czech It Out album (Acoustic Disc).
1999, released Restless Joy album (no label).

East Coast Bluegrass Band, The

Posted on January 23, 2014 by WR

THE EAST COAST BLUEGRASS BAND

From Virginia.
Formed in 1985 to compete in the East Coast Bluegrass Band Championship in Crimora, Virginia. After winning the contest, they just kept the name.
Members: Buster Sexton (banjo), Mike Andes (mandolin), Frankie Hawkins (guitar) , Darin Lawrence (guitar), Bill Ledbetter (bass), and Mitchell Davis (fiddle). Buster’s son Chris Sexton replaced Davis in 1997.
1986, won the Virginia Folk Music Society State Bluegrass Band Championship.
1998, released “Life’s Highways” album on Copper Creek Records.
2000, the group broke up. Andes and Davis (now playing banjo) continued to play with the group Nothin’ Fancy, which had formed in 1994.

JackTown Ramblers, The

Posted on July 17, 2021 by WR

THE JACKTOWN RAMBLERS

From Morganton, North Carolina.
Formed in 2019 by Gabriel Wiseman (mandolin), Shanon Leasure (Guitar), Brett Setzer (banjo) and Mike Ramsey (bass).
They play traditional bluegrass mixed with swing and gypsy jazz.
2021, released their first album Ramblin’ On (no label).

Jake Leg

Posted on February 18, 2023 by WR

JAKE LEG

From Lyons, Colorado.
Formed in the fall of 2021 by Eric Wiggs (vocals/guitar), Dylan McCarthy (mandolin/vocals), Justin Hoffenberg (fiddle) and Troy Robey (bass).
Jake Leg is the name of a “paralysis caused by drinking improperly distilled or contaminated liquor (e.g. moonshine).”
They are a new acoustic band with bluegrass roots.
2022, made their debut as a showcase artist at IBMA World of Bluegrass; also performed at Planet Bluegrass’ Rockygrass festival.

East Nash Grass

Posted on November 24, 2021November 3, 2023 by WR

EAST NASH GRASS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2017 as a pick-up band to play dates at Nashville’s Station Inn and eventually became a full-time band. They are regulars at Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge in Nashville.
Members: Cory Walker (banjo), Harry Clark (guitar), Maddie Denton (fiddle), Gaven Largent (Dobro™), James Kee (mandolin) and Geoff Sanders (bass).
2021, released first album East Nash Grass (Lamb Lyfe Records).
2023, made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry on Halloween night.

Val, Joe

Posted on October 23, 2013July 11, 2018 by LJ

JOE VAL

From New England. Was born in Everett, Massachusetts.
Real name: Joseph Valiante. His last name was shortened to Val by fiddler Tex Logan.
An influential mandolin player and tenor singer in the New England area.
1950’s, performed with the Radio Rangers and the Lilly Brothers.
1960’s, worked with Bill Keith, Jim Rooney, Breakfast Special, and the Charles River Valley Boys, a group that became well-known after recording an album for Elektra called “Beatle Country”featuring bluegrass arrangements of songs by the Beatles.
1969, formed The New England Bluegrass Boys and recorded five albums for Rounder.
He had a full-time day job as a typewriter repairman.
Died in 1985. Was posthumously presented with the IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award that same year.
1986, a concert series (and later a bluegrass festival) was named in his honor.
2018, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Diamond Joe (Rounder)
One Morning in May (Rounder)

Gagnon, Trisha

Posted on November 27, 2013February 27, 2015 by WR

TRISHA GAGNON

From Chlliwack, BC, Canada.
Sings and plays bass with John Reischmann and the Jaybirds.
Formerly performed with a group called Tumbleweed.
2010, released solo project A Story About You and Me (Jam’n Music) with guests Vince Gill, Rob Ickes, Peter Rowan, Laurie Lewis and others.

Lamb, Barbara

Posted on December 6, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

BARBARA LAMB

From Seattle, Washington.
Played fiddle with the “cowgirl” band, Ranch Romance.
Was Mark O’Connor’s first fiddle teacher. He was only eleven years old at the time.
Early seventies: performed with a Seattle-based bluegrass band called Tall Timber.
1974, recorded an album of fiddle duets with Vivian Williams.
Nickname: “Babs.”
Hobby: collecting boots. She has over 75 pair.
1993, released Fiddle Fatale album (Sugar Hill).
1993, performed with best selling author and lecturer Robert Fulghum (All I Ever Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten) at such venues as Carnegie Hall in New York City. She “colors” his stories with the fiddle.
Calls her flamboyant style: “chrome on the range.”
1994, toured with Texas swing band Asleep at the Wheel.
1996, released Tonight I Feel Like Texas album (Sugar Hill).
2000, released Blue On Dakota album (no label).
2006, released Bootsy Met a Bank Robber album (no label).
2009, released Twisty Girl album (no label).

Hale, Robert

Posted on November 30, 2013March 24, 2023 by WR

ROBERT HALE

From Jolo, West Virginia
Began performing at the age of 9, playing mandolin in his father’s band “Clayton Hale and the Bluegrass Mountaineers.”
Age 11, was invited to perform at the Grand Ole Opry with Bill Monroe.
Has been a band member with the Reno Brothers, J. D. Crowe and the New South (guitar, lead vocals), Livewire, Eddie and Martha Adcock (mandolin) and several other bands.
2000, founded Wildfire with Curt Chapman.
Played on two Dolly Parton albums: “Halos and Horns” and “For God and Country.”
2012, released first solo project Pure & Simple (Pinecastle).
2020, released Blue Haze album (Pinecastle) with his “8th Wonder Band” including Scott Vestal, Missy Raines and Shawn Lane.
2022, appeared on Quiet Country Town album by Wildfire (Pinecastle).

Salt and Light

Posted on May 14, 2017September 23, 2020 by WR

SALT AND LIGHT

From Graham, North Carolina.
A family band (the Moore Family) featuring siblings Kyndal (mandolin), Morgan (guitar), Parker (banjo), Daniel (fiddle), Norah (fiddle) and Garrett (bass).
2017, they ranged in age from 11 (Norah) to 21 (Parker).
They began performing together as a band in 2014.
While they are not exclusively a gospel-singing group, their band name comes from the Bible (Matthew 5:13-16).
2017, released their second album “Second Course” (Whale Tone).

Hall, Bill

Posted on January 15, 2014February 14, 2014 by WR

BILL HALL (AND NORTHWIND BLUEGRASS)

From North Scituate, Rhode Island.
Full name: Roger William Hall.
Played banjo in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s with the Lilly Brothers, Joe Val and the New England Bluegrass Boys and other New England bands. Also had his own group, Bill Hall and the Northwind Bluegrass.
Was also a prolific songwriter with more than 100 songs to his credit.
1984, released “In the Shadow of the Pines” album on Old Homestead Records.
Was recognized by the International Bluegrass Music Museum as one of the 200 original pioneers of bluegrass music.
Died in 2010 in a farming accident.

Bailey, James

Posted on November 1, 2013December 31, 2018 by WR

JAMES BAILEY

From Keysville, Virginia.
1974, 1976-1979, 1986-1988, played banjo with the Country Gentlemen.
Has also worked with Ricky Skaggs, Del McCoury, Doyle Lawson, U.S. Senator Robert Byrd, Gary Ferguson, many others.
1998, formed “James Bailey and Company,” a band with Malcolm Pulley (guitar), Randy Cook (mandolin) and Doug Ganey (bass).
2001, released solo banjo album “James Bailey Bluegrass.”
2014, retired from the music business.

Walker, Bradley

Posted on January 6, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

BRADLEY WALKER

From Athens, Alabama.
Confined to a wheel chair since childhood, he was born with Muscular Dystrophy.
Began singing as a child. At age 3, attended an Oak Ridge Boys concert and backstage, sang “Elvira” with them. They were so impressed they invited him to sing on the Jerry Lewis Labor Day telethon, and he has appeared and performed on that annual broadcast many times.
1996, graduated from high school and fell in love with bluegrass
1998, formed a band called the Trinity Mountain Boys.
2001, joined Lost Horizon, an Atlanta-based group, as their lead singer.
2002, first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry as a guest of Third Tyme Out.
2006, released Highway Of Dreams album (Rounder), produced by Carl Jackson.
2007, won IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
2008, his video for the song “A Little Change” reached #1 on CMT.

Sam Hill

Posted on December 30, 2013September 27, 2021 by WR

SAM HILL

From Portland, Oregon.
Formed in 1993 by mandolinist Jeff Smith (originally from California) who wrote much of the band’s original material.
1995, released “Bring on the Blues” album (New Timey).
1998, released “Hard Luck and Trouble” album (New Timey).
2001, released “Haunted by a Memory” album (no label).
2002 lineup: Smith, Doug Sammons (guitar), Peter Schwimmer (banjo), Pat Kramer (fiddle), Dee Ann Davidshofer (bass).
2021 lineup: Smith (mandolin), Sammons (guitar), Schwimmer (banjo), Amy Hakanson (fiddle), Chuck Davidshofer (bass).

Bailey, Richard

Posted on November 1, 2013November 1, 2013 by WR

RICHARD BAILEY

From Memphis. Lives in Nashville.
First band: The Tennessee Gentlemen (Memphis).
As a sideman, he has performed with Bill Monroe, Roland White, Vassar Clements, Loretta Lynn, Chet Akins, Larry Cordle, Laurie Lewis, Dale Ann Bradley and many others.
As a session musician, he has recorded with Kenny Rogers, Michael Martin Murphy, Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette, Ronnie Milsap and many others. He has played at Carnegie Hall and on Austin City Limits..
Has been a member of The Cluster Pluckers, Kathy Chiavola Band, the Roland White Band, The J.T. Gray Band and several others.
1986, recorded a solo album called Night Light.
2007, was a founding member of the Steeldrivers.

Baker, Jessie

Posted on November 1, 2013April 2, 2018 by WR

JESSIE BAKER

From Martinsville, Indiana. Lives in Georgetown, Kentucky.
At age 11, learned banjo and began performing with his brother Taylor (mandolin) as The Baker Boys.
2007, at age 16 took his first professional job with Karl Shiflett and Big Country Show. He also spent some time with Wildfire, The Wildwood Valley Boys, Marty Raybon and Full Circle, David Peterson and 1946, Avery County, Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain.
2008, joined Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper. While with this band, they won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
2009, released solo project Yessir!
2011, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
2012, joined Dailey and Vincent.
2018, left Dailey and Vincent to recover from recurring pain in his right (picking) hand.

Sanbower, Jack

Posted on December 30, 2013December 27, 2015 by WR

JACK SANBOWER (AND THE NO LEEWAY BAND)

From Smithsburg, Maryland.
Jack Sanbower played banjo with several Baltimore-Washington DC area bands, including CC and Company, Chestnut Ridge and the Bluegrass Image.
1990, formed the No Leeway Band.
1994, guitarist George Garris (formerly of the Garris Brothers Band) joined the band. They performed as Sanbower, Garris and the No LeeWay Band.
1994, released “Thinking of Old Memories” album (Buck Hollow).
2003, released Same Ole Fools album (Buck Hollow).
2005, died of cancer at the age of 45.

Sand Mountain Boys, The

Posted on December 30, 2013December 27, 2015 by WR

THE SAND MOUNTAIN BOYS

Originally from Alabama; relocated to Milton, Florida.
Formed in 1989.
Sand Mountain is a large plateau in northeastern Alabama.
For years, this group wore white tuxedos decked out with rhinestones.
Leader and banjo player Gary Waldrep previously performed with the Warrior River Boys and the gospel group, Wendy Bagwell and the Sunliters.
1994, released The Sand Mountain Boys album (Hay Holler).
1995, released No Rhyme No Reason album (Hay Holler).
When Gary Waldrep retired, original members Wayne and Jerry Crain (father/son) relocated to Florida and changed the name of the group to Sand Mountain.
2000, Waldrep began touring with his own group, The Gary Waldrep Band.

Sanders, Eddie

Posted on October 4, 2018 by WR

EDDIE SANDERS

From McAlester, Oklahoma.
A singer/songwriter, he played guitar for many years with a band called Signal Mountain. Bandmates included Shawn Camp, Tim and Dennis Crouch, Donnie Catron and others.
His father, Freddie Sanders produced the Sanders Family Bluegrass Festival in McAlester, Oklahoma, one of the largest in the region.
Songwriting credits: “You Could Be Me” (Del McCoury) and “Down Where the River Ends” (Kix Brooks and Wayne Toups), co-written with Shawn Camp.
2018, released “Fast Train to Lonesome” album (Rural Rhythm).

Rambling Rooks, The

Posted on February 8, 2014July 19, 2018 by WR

THE RAMBLING ROOKS (See BAND OF RUHKS)

A part-time band formed in 2012 by Ronnie Bowman (bass), Don Rigsby (mandolin) and Kenny Smith (guitar).
1995-2001, the three of them worked together as members of the Lonesome River Band.
2015, released first album and changed the name of the band to “Band of Ruhks.”

Haggard, Merle

Posted on November 30, 2013January 22, 2022 by WR

MERLE HAGGARD

From Bakersfield, California.
Not primarily known as a bluegrass artist, but recorded an album called “The Bluegrass Sessions” in 2007. Bluegrass legend Ronnie Reno was a member of his band in the mid-1970’s and bluegrass bands such as the Osborne Brothers and Brush Arbor often toured with him.
Has had 40 number one country hits, including “Okie from Muskogie”, “If We Make It Through December” and “Daddy Frank.”
1970, won CMA award for Album of the Year, Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and Single of the Year. Has won dozens of CMA and ACM awards, three Grammies including the Lifetime Achievement Award.
1994, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2007, recorded The Bluegrass Sessions album (McCoury Music).
2016, died on his birthday (April 6) at the age of 79.

Gallatin, Amy

Posted on November 27, 2013October 15, 2016 by WR

AMY GALLATIN (and STILLWATERS)

From Glastonbury, Connecticut; grew up in Louisiana.
1993, moved to Connecticut and formed Stillwaters with Kevin Lynch and Matt Nozzolio.
1994, released “Northern Girl” album (on Happy Appy Records, her own label).
1998, released Phoenix album (Happy Appy).
Has frequently toured Europe and performed numerous times at the European IBMA World of Bluegrass event in the Netherlands as well as the UK.
2001, released Live in Europe album (Happy Appy).
2002, teamed up with Peggy Harvey (of Traver Hollow) to form a new group called the Hot Flashes.
2005, resurrected Stillwaters with the addition of Dobro™ player Roger Williams and his son JD Williams (mandolin).
2008, released Phoenix album (Happy Appy).
2008, released a retro-county album with Roger Williams Something ‘Bout You (Happy Appy).
2010, released Everything I Wanted Love to Be album (Happy Appy).
2016, recorded a trio album with Gail Wade and Peggy Harvey as The Hot Flashes.

James, Ben

Posted on December 13, 2022July 9, 2024 by WR

BEN JAMES

From North Carolina; resides in Nashville.
2019, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, singing high tenor vocals until Doyle’s retirement.
2021, joined Dailey & Vincent.
2022, signed with RBR Entertainment and released several singles.
2023, joined the Oak Ridge Boys (replacing Joe Bonsall).

Baker Boys, The

Posted on November 1, 2013November 1, 2013 by WR

THE BAKER BOYS

From Martinsville, Indiana.
Features brothers Jessie (banjo) and Taylor (mandolin) Baker. Taylor is 2 years older than Jessie.
Began performing in 2002 as youngsters, age 12 and 14. Mom and dad, Anna and David, performed with the boys on bass and guitar.
They won several band competitions and performed regularly at festivals like Bean Blossom and Ralph Stanley’s Memorial Weekend Bluegrass Festival in Coeburn, VA.
2006, performed at the Grand Ole Opry with Mike Snider.
2007, at age 16 Jessie began his career working as a sideman with other top bluegrass bands (see Jessie Baker).
2008, The Baker Boys released their only CD on Patuxent Records.

Tasty Licks

Posted on January 1, 2014August 6, 2018 by WR

TASTY LICKS

From New England.
Formed in 1975 by Jack Tottle (mandolin), Robin Kincaid (guitar), Paul Kahn (bass), Bela Fleck (banjo) and Stacy Phillips (Dobro™). Pat Enright (guitar) and Mark Schatz (bass) were later members of this band.
1978, released Tasty Licks album (Rounder).
1979, released “Anchored to the Shore” album (Rounder).
Broke up in 1979.

Magness, Tommy

Posted on March 25, 2015 by WR

TOMMY MAGNESS (AND HIS TENNESSEE BUDDIES)

From Roanoke, Virginia.
A fiddler who worked in the late 1930’s with Roy Hall and His Blue Ridge Entertainers (with whom he made the very first recording of the Orange Blossom Special.)
1940, joined Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys and appeared on some of Monroe’s earliest recordings.
1946-47, worked with Roy Acuff’s Smoky Mountain Boys. While with Acuff, he made the first recording of the Black Mountain Rag.
1947, formed the Orange Blossom Boys.
1951, formed Tommy Magness and His Tennessee Buddies, which included Don Reno and Red Smiley. They recorded several juke box hits for King Records.
He died in 1972.

Campbell, Johnny

Posted on April 26, 2014March 8, 2022 by WR

JOHNNY CAMPBELL AND THE BLUEGRASS DRIFTERS

From Nashville, Tennessee. Originally from Detroit.
A third generation fiddler, he is brother to the late Jimmy Campbell, who played fiddle with Jim and Jesse, Bill Monroe and the Sidemen.
2014, his band includes wife Whitney Campbell (bass, harmony vocals), Carl Caldwell (guitar), Jeff Burke (mandolin), Chris Carter (banjo).
2014, released first solo project Johnny Campbell & The Bluegrass Drifters (no label).

Magnolia Drive

Posted on February 5, 2022February 5, 2022 by WR

MAGNOLIA DRIVE

From Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Formed in 2010 by Don Robinson (banjo/guitar), Steve Nowell (bass), Mike Nowell (guitar) and Cory Burton (mandolin).
Their name comes from Mississippi’s nickname “The Magnolia State,” plus the “drive” that typifies traditional bluegrass music.
They play “southern-style contemporary traditional bluegrass.”
2022, released Timeless album (Mountain Fever).

Cana Ramblers, The

Posted on November 9, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

THE CANA RAMBLERS

From Cana, Virginia.
A family band featuring three siblings: Will Jones (guitar), Laura Leigh Jones (mandolin), Ashley Jones (bass), dad Phillip Jones (guitar), Rick Allred (banjo).
Allred previously worked with the Country Gentlemen, Larry Stephenson Band, McPeak Brothers.
2010, released “No Expectations” CD. At the time of recording, Will was 18, Laura Leigh 20, Ashley 23.

Sapp, Dean

Posted on December 30, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

DEAN SAPP (AND THE HARFORD EXPRESS)

From Aberdeen, Maryland.
1980, formed his band The Harford Express.
Sapp’s uncle (Sonny Miller) played fiddle for Del McCoury.
Sapp plays all the bluegrass instruments, but plays guitar in the band.
He owns a music store where he teaches and repairs instruments.
1995, released You’ve Never Had The Blues album (Old Train).
1998, released Live From Australia album (no label).
2001, released “Fare Thee Well” album (Old Train).
2003, released Coal Black Gold album (Old Train).
2005, released I Can Hear the Blue Ridge Calling Me album (Old Train).

Baker, Kenny

Posted on November 1, 2013March 24, 2019 by WR

KENNY BAKER

From Jenkins, Kentucky. During much of his career, he lived in Gallatin, Tennessee.
1957-1984, played fiddle with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys on four different occasions. His longest stint was 17½ years from March ‘67 to October ‘84.
Bill Monroe frequently called him “the greatest bluegrass fiddler in the world.”
First pro job: Don Gibson’s band (1953).
1990-91, recorded and toured with a group called “The Masters” (Kenny, Josh Graves, Byron Berline and Eddie Adcock).
1990’s, performed and recorded as a duo with Josh Graves.
1993, received a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.
1999, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
2011, passed away at the age of 85.
2014, banjo player Noam Pikelny (Punch Brothers) won an IBMA Award for his banjo adaptation of Kenny Baker’s classic album Plays Bill Monroe. The album was titled Noam Pikelny Plays Kenny Baker Plays Bill Monroe.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Baker’s Dozen (County, 1970)
Plays Bill Monroe (County, 1976)
Frost on the Pumpkin (County, 1977)
Master Fiddler (County, 1984)

Sauceman Brothers, The

Posted on December 30, 2013December 27, 2015 by WR

THE SAUCEMAN BROTHERS

From Bright Hope, Tennessee (eastern Tennessee, near Greenville)
Featured Carl and John Paul (J.P.) Sauceman.
In the mid-forties, Carl had a band called the Hillbilly Ramblers.
The brothers recorded together from 1945 until 1952.
1952, Carl moved to Carrollton, Alabama and pioneered bluegrass music there with his Green Valley Boys.
The bothers recorded for Rich-R-Tone and Mercury. Carl and his band recorded for Capitol and Republic Records.
1996, Copper Creek Records released a retrospective album of their early radio recordings: On WCYB – Bristol.
Carl retired from music in 1962, took over a radio station in Gonzales, Louisiana in 1969.
J.P died in 1984.
Carl died in 2005.

Nadolson, Mike

Posted on October 23, 2013September 15, 2023 by LJ

MIKE NADOLSON

From Lake Elsinore, California (LA area).
1980, 1981 won the Four Corners Regional Flatpicking Championship in Wickenburg, Arizona.
Has performed with several Southern California bands, including Shadow Mountain with Ron Block and Dennis Caplinger, Damascus Road, a gospel group, Circuit Riders, and Silverado, his own band.
He was founder and owner of Tricopolis Records.
1998, recorded first solo album Quicksand (Tricopolis).
2020, died at the age of 68.

Daniels, Charlie

Posted on November 20, 2013February 17, 2022 by WR

CHARLIE DANIELS

From Wilmington, North Carolina.
As a teenager, played mandolin and fiddle with a North Carolina bluegrass band called the Misty Mountain Boys.
1972, began solo career as a country artist.
1979, had #1 song with “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” His album “Fire on the Mountain” (which features that song) was certified platinum in 1992.
1979, 1980 won CMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year. Also won several other CMA and ACM awards.
2005, released a bluegrass gospel album Songs From the Longleaf Pine (Blue Hat Records).
2009, released a bluegrass Christmas album Joy To The World – A Bluegrass Christmas (E1 Entertainment).
2020, died at the age of 83.

Mailander, John

Posted on August 9, 2014April 18, 2018 by WR

JOHN MAILANDER

From San Diego, California.
A graduate of the Berklee School of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.
Has played fiddle with Chris Stuart and BackCountry, Tony Trischka and Territory, Darol Anger, other bands.
Performs as a duo with guitarist Molly Tuttle.
2014, played fiddle in Steve Martin & Edie Brickell’s musical, Bright Star, for it’s premier run in New York.
2014, released first solo album Walking Distance (no label).
2014, released Molly Tuttle & John Mailander album (no label).
2017, released a music instruction book A Fiddler’s Guid to Moveable Shapes (self published).
2018, joined Bruce Hornsby’s touring band the Noisemakers.

Kane’s River

Posted on December 2, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

KANE’S RIVER

From Belgrade, Montana.
Formed in 1995 as “Deep River” by John Lowell and Nancy Padilla, formerly with Wheel Hoss. Lowell also worked with the Wyoming band Loose Ties.
1998, added Jerry Nettuno (formerly with Highstrung). Former Wheel Hoss and New Vintage banjo player Julie Elkins also joined the band.
1999, changed name to Kane’s River because they found that another group was performing under the name Deep River. Named after an eccentric mountain man in Montana named Kane Fisher.
2001, released Kane’s River album (Snake River)
2002, Ben Winship (formerly with Loose Ties) joined the band, replacing Jerry Nettuno.
2003, released Same River Twice album (Snake River)
John Lowell continues to perform as a solo artist.

Canada, Mo

Posted on November 9, 2013 by WR

MO CANADA

From Courtland, Virginia. Lives in Windsor, Virginia.
Began playing guitar at age 13.
Primary influences: Tony Rice, Jimmy Herring, Scott Miller, Bela Fleck, Sam Bush.
Has performed with Lou Reid, the Lonesome River Band, Randy Kohrs, others.
1995, released album “Stoney Lonesome.”
2006, released album “Grassoline.”

Saunders, Zeke

Posted on December 30, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

ZEKE SAUNDERS (AND THE BLADES OF GRASS)

From Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Harold K. (“Zeke”) Saunders was a former pilot and Senior Vice President of Piedmont Airlines (now U.S. Air).
He received the Distinguished Flying Cross medal for his service as a pilot during World War II.
For many years, he had a radio program on the all-bluegrass station WPAQ, Mt. Airy, North Carolina.
Between 1987-2003, recorded six albums including There’ll Be No Broken Hearts for Me (1990, Heritage).
He died in 2014 at the age of 93.

Lane, Lawrence (and the Kentucky Grass)

Posted on March 5, 2019March 5, 2019 by WR

LAWRENCE LANE AND THE KENTUCKY GRASS

From Columbus Ohio.
Formed in 1973 by Lawrence Lane (guitar), Keith Lane (mandolin), Radford Vance (banjo) and Ray Sonaugle (fiddle).
1974, released “Washington’s Files” album (Rome).
1976, released “1776-1976” album (Rome).
Lane also promoted several bluegrass festivals in Kentucky.
Jimmy Olander of the group Diamond Rio was once a member of this band (playing banjo).
2017, the group Carolina Blue recorded Sounds of Kentucky Grass (Poor Mountain), a tribute to Lawrence Lane and the Kentucky Grass. Lawrence Lane is the great uncle of Carolina Blue’s mandolin player, Timmy Jones.

Lane, Shawn

Posted on December 6, 2013September 13, 2024 by WR

SHAWN LANE

Born & raised in Fort Blackmore, Virginia. Lives in Walhalla, South Carolina.
An original member of Blue Highway. Plays mandolin.
1990, worked with Lou Reid.
1991-1993, worked with Doyle Lawson.
1993-1994, worked with Ricky Skaggs.
1995-present, Blue Highway.
Early days: performed at a Johnson City (TN) club every 1st Thursday of the month with country singer Kenny Chesney.
Has a degree in Machine Tool Technology; graduated on the President’s List of his college and was selected for “Who’s Who” of American Students in 1994.
2003, released solo project All For Today (Rebel Records).
2014, released solo project Mountain Songs (Cat Town Records).
2014, filled in for Tim O’Brien with The Earls of Leicester.
2019, released an EP with guitarist Richard Bennett called “Land and Harbor” (Bonfire).

Mainer, Wade

Posted on December 18, 2013December 11, 2015 by WR

WADE MAINER

From Weaverville, North Carolina. Lived most of his life in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
A country music pioneer whose mountain string band music of the 1930’s helped lay the foundation for bluegrass which developed in the 1940’s.
He and his older brother J.E. Mainer began performing together in 1927. They were first known as J.E. Mainer’s Crazy Mountaineers. Wade played banjo; J.E. played fiddle. In 1935, they recorded 14 songs for the RCA Bluebird label, including their biggest hit “Maple on the Hill.”
1936, formed his own band, Sons of the Mountaineers with Zeke and Wiley Morris, Clyde Moody, other musicians. From 1935 to 1941, they were one of the most heavily-recorded country artists of that era.
1953, left the music business and moved to Flint, Michigan where he worked for General Motors, retiring in 1972.
1975, began performing again with his wife, Julia May (stage name “Hillbilly Lilly”), who sings and plays guitar. They performed exclusively Gospel music.
Mainer played banjo in the two-finger style popularized by Snuffy Jenkins (who inspired Earl Scruggs to develop his three-finger style.)
2002, appeared at the Grand Ole Opry and was Grand Marshall for the Uncle Dave Macon Days parade in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
2011, died at the age of 104.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

I’m Not Looking Backward (Gusto).
Wade Mainer & Associates (BACM)

Candlewyck

Posted on November 10, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

CANDLEWYCK

From Charlotte, North Carolina.
A newgrass band formed in 1999 featuring Ty Bennett (guitar) and Chris Emerson (mandolin), who also perform together in a duo called Natty Boh.
Candlewyck is the name of the neighborhood where Bennett and Emerson grew up. They lived down the street from each other
Bennett is a songwriter, producer and music instructor in Charlotte. Originally from Hampton, South Carolina.
Emerson is originally from Lansing, Michigan, but has lived in NC since the early 80’s. Taught himself mandolin.
2001, released first album with guests Don Rigsby, John Cowan, Terry Baucom, Shawn Lane, others. A song from that album “Firemen” won an “Indy” award for best bluegrass song of the year.
2007, released Live at the Palmetto Theater album (Votive).
2014, released radio single “Play” featuring John Cowan on vocals.

Malina, Lubos

Posted on December 18, 2013December 11, 2015 by WR

LUBOS MALINA

From the Czech Republic.
Pronounced LEW-Bosch Ma-LEEN-a.
He is the co-founder and banjo player for the Czech bluegrass band Druha Trava (Second Grass).
Early influences: Larry McNeely and Earl Scruggs; later influences: Bela Fleck and Tony Trischka.
1992, won ‘Best Banjo Player Overall’ at Banjo Jamboree Festival (Czech Republic) and he won the award numerous times since then.
1999, released first solo album Piece of Cake (Alliance).

Acoustic Blue

Posted on October 28, 2013January 7, 2014 by WR

ACOUSTIC BLUE

From Springfield, Massachusetts.
Formed in 2003.
Band members: Corey Zink (mandolin), T. Shaun Batho (guitar), Larry Neu (banjo), Ray Evans (bass).
2012, released “Bein’ Country” on Mountain Fever Records with guests Sammy Shelor, Gena Britt and Mike Hartgrove.
2012, Zink, Evans and Neu dissolved their partnership with Batho and began performing together as the Corey Zink Band.

Cane Mill Road

Posted on December 13, 2017May 28, 2024 by WR

CANE MILL ROAD

From Deep Gap, North Carolina.
Formed in 2015 by teens Liam Purcell (mandolin) and Tray Wellington (banjo) who are both from Deep Gap (home of Doc Watson). Also in the band: Elliott Smith (bass) and Casey Lewis (guitar).
2017, released first album Five Speed (no label), produced by Cathy Fink and Tom Mindte.
2019, released Gap to Gap album (Patuxent).
2019, won the IBMA Momentum Award for Band of the Year. Tray Wellington also won the Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2020, the group disbanded.
2021, Mandolinist Liam Purcell re-formed the band with Rob McCormac (guitar), Jacob Smith (bass), Colton Kerchner (banjo) and Sam Stage (fiddle). Rebranded the band as Liam Purcell and Cane Mill Road.
2021, Purcell released solo album Roots (Trailhead) writing all the songs and playing all the instruments.
2023, fiddler Stage was replaced by Ella Jordan (formerly with Mile Twelve).
2024, released Yellow Line album (Pinecastle).
2024, banjo player Zack Vickers replaced Kerchner.

Baldassari, Butch

Posted on November 1, 2013March 28, 2016 by WR

BUTCH BALDASSARI (See also WEARY HEARTS, NASHVILLE MANDOLIN ENSEMBLE)

From Scranton, Pennsylvania. Lives in Nashville.
A mandolinist who grew up listening to the music of Frank Sinatra, Louis Prima and other classic pop stars. He was converted to bluegrass after attending the 1972 Philadelphia Folk Festival.
1977, moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. Worked as a croupier, running craps tables in the El Cortez and MGM Grand Casinos.
1986, joined the Arizona-based band Weary Hearts with Ron Block, Mike Bub and Chris Jones.
1989, moved to Nashville with Weary Hearts. The group disbanded shortly thereafter.
1990, released solo project Old Town (Rebel).
1991, formed The Nashville Mandolin Ensemble, a group that performs “Bach, Beethoven and Bill Monroe.”
1994-1998, worked with Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time and the Kathy Chiavola Band. He also began recording mandolin instruction videos.
1996, he was named adjunct professor of mandolin at the Blair School of Music, Vanderbilt University.
1996, became vice president of the Classical Mandolin Society of America.
1996, joined Richard Greene’s band, The Grass is Greener.
Founded his own record label SoundArt Recordings.
1997, formed the Nashville Mandolin Trio.
2002, wrote and produced “Blue Moon Over Kentucky,” a symphony for orchestra and mandolin featuring the music of Bill Monroe.
2009, died from brain cancer at age 56.

Man About a Horse

Posted on March 20, 2019March 20, 2019 by WR

MAN ABOUT A HORSE

From Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Formed in 2014 by Matt Thomas (bass) and Matt “Roy” Royles (guitar). Other band members: Dan Whitener (banjo), Matthew Hiller (mandolin), and Eric Lee (fiddle).
2017, released self-titled album (no label).
2018, won the FreshGrass Band Contest.
2019, released Listen For That Good single (Dark Shadow).

Walker, Cory and Jarrod

Posted on January 6, 2014November 15, 2023 by WR

CORY AND JARROD WALKER

From Lithia, Florida (near Tampa)
They are brothers who began performing together in their teens. Cory plays banjo, guitar and resonator guitar, Jarrod plays mandolin. Their brother Tyler also plays guitar. Ages (June 2006): Cory, age 16; Jarrod, age 14; Tyler, age 10.
2003, Cory appeared on the IBMA Awards Show with the “Young American Bluegrass Idols.”
2004, appeared with Keith Urban on a CBS TV special.
2005, appeared on the IBMA’s “Kids on Bluegrass” video and were part of the band “Juvenescence” that performed on the IBMA’s Fanfest stage.
2005-6, appeared on the National Wild Turkey Federation’s Award ceremony, opening for Alison Krauss & Union Station and Diamond Rio.
2005-6, performed together as “The Bluegrass Parlor Band with Cory and Jarrod Walker.”
2007, Cory joined Sierra Hull and Highway 111, playing banjo.
2007, released “New Branches” album (no label).
2012, Jarrod joined Missy Raines and the New Hip, playing mandolin and guitar.
2014, Cory worked with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, replacing Justin Moses.
2015, Jarrod joined The Claire Lynch Band, playing mandolin.
2015, Cory and Jarrod both joined Bradford Lee Folk and the Bluegrass Playboys.
2019, Cory joined The Dillards. Jarrod joined Billy Strings.
2020, Cory joined East Nash Grass (while also working with the Dillards and other bands).
2023, Cory released School Project album (Mountain Fever).

Falle, Marty

Posted on July 8, 2023March 27, 2024 by WR

MARTY FALLE

From Nashville. He has lived in Ohio, Kentucky, Georgia and South Carolina. He owns a farm in Kentucky.
His name is pronounced “Falley” (same as “Valley” only with an F).
He is a singer and songwriter who has recorded both as a country and bluegrass artist.
2021, released Virgin on the Bluegrass, his first bluegrass album (Country Cool Music).
2023, released second bluegrass album Kentucky Bluestar (Country Cool).
2023 released third bluegrass album My Farm, My Bluegrass (Country Cool).
2024, released fourth bluegrass album Bluegrass Holy Land (Country Cool).

Galyean, Mickey (and Cullen’s Bridge)

Posted on June 18, 2016February 24, 2021 by WR

MICKEY GALYEAN AND CULLEN’S BRIDGE

From Low Gap, North Carolina.
Galyean (pronouned Galleon, like the ship) is the son of Cullen Galyean, a legendary bluegrass musician from North Carolina. The band is named after him.
Formed in 2010 by Mickey Galyean (guitar), Rick Pardue (banjo), Brad Hiatt (bass) and Billy Hawks (fiddle).
Galyean and Hiatt formerly played with Rich In Tradition. Pardue has worked with several bands including Carolina Road, Long & Pardue and Rambler’s Choice. Hawks formerly worked with Big Country Bluegrass, Junior Sisk & Rambler’s Choice.
2013, released Rollin With Tradition album (no label).
2016, released My Daddy’s Grass album (Rebel).
2018, released Songs from the Blue Ridge (Rebel).

Rarely Herd, The

Posted on December 23, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

THE RARELY HERD

From Athens, Ohio.
Formed in 1989 by Jeff Weaver (guitar) and Jim and Alan Stack (guitar and mandolin). Other original members: Dan Brooks (Dobro™) and Calvin LePort (banjo)
The Stack brothers formerly had a family band called Frog and the Greenhorns.
Rob Ickes and Ned Luberecki are former members of this band.
Their band name is a spin-off of the “Seldom Scene.”
1991, won the “Bluegrass America” band competition in Milton, West Virginia.
1992-2003, winners of the SPBGMA award for “Entertaining Band of the Year.” They received the “Gold Masters” award in 2003 for ten consecutive years winning this award. They also hosted the SPBGMA Awards Show in 2005.
1994, released Heartbreak City album (Pinecastle).
1995, released Midnight Loneliness album (Pinecastle).
1996, released Pure Homemade Love album (Pinecastle).
1997, released What About Him album (Pinecastle).
1998, released Coming of Age album (Pinecastle).
2000, released Part of Growing Up album (Pinecastle).
2004, released Return Journey album (no label).
2006, released Fields of the Harvest album (no label).
2007, released Roundup album (no label).
Current band includes original members Jim Stack and Jeff Weaver.
2016, the original band performed several reunion shows.

Lang, Rick

Posted on December 6, 2013October 1, 2019 by WR

RICK LANG

From Kingston, New Hampshire.
A singer/songwriter, known best for his gospel songs.
His song “Listen to the Word of God” appeared on the Lonesome River Band’s award-winning Carrying the Tradition album.
Owns a lumber company in New Hampshire called “Highland Hardwoods.”
Has recorded several albums under the name “Rick Lang and Friends.”
2010, released an album of his songs featuring special guests Russell Moore, Dale Ann Bradley, Barry Scott, Junior Sisk and other well known bluegrass musicians. He himself did not perform on the album.
2014, released his second Christmas album That’s What I Love About Christmas (RLM).
2018, released The Undertow album (RLM) featuring songs about the ocean.
2018, released Gonna Sing, Gonna Shout album (Billy Blue), produced by Jerry Salley and featuring gospel songs with vocals by Dave Adkins, Marty Raybon, Claire Lynch, the Cox Family, Kenny and Amanda Smith, High Road, the Whites, Bradley Walker, Jerry Salley, Larry Cordle and others.
2019, won the IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year for the song “Gonna Sing, Gonna Shout,” sung by Claire Lynch.

Zink, Corey

Posted on September 1, 2021October 17, 2022 by WR

COREY ZINK (ZINK & COMPANY)

From Massachusetts; now lives in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
2003-2012, played mandolin with a Massachusetts band called Acoustic Blue. Left to form the Corey Zink Band (later renamed Zink & Company).
2014, released Zink & Company album (no label).
2015, released Zink & Company II album (no label).
2016, released Zink & Company III album (no label).
2018, his band included Zink (guitar/lead vocals), John Roc (mandolin), Dan Menzone (banjo), Keith Edwards (bass), Doug Bartlett (mandolin) and Gary Pomerleau (fiddle).
2018, released Zink & Company IV album (no label).
2019, moved to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and was signed by Sound Biscuit Records. He is a regular performer at Dollywood. He also formed a “classic country” band to expand his audience.
2021, released singles “Bein’ Country” and “Best of Her” (Sound Biscuit).

Larkins, The

Posted on December 6, 2013December 11, 2015 by WR

THE LARKINS

From Church Hill, Tennessee.
A duo featuring sisters Shaunna (fiddle) and Tina (mandolin) Larkin. They began performing together as children in their family band “The Larkin Family.” They were regulars at Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
2001, first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.
2003, released first album Larkins (Audium) with guest Dolly Parton.

Mandolin Orange (Watchhouse)

Posted on September 19, 2019March 30, 2023 by WR

MANDOLIN ORANGE (WATCHHOUSE)

From Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Formed in 2009 by Andrew Marlin (mandolin, guitar, banjo) and Emily Frantz (fiddle, guitar). They are married.
2010, released Quiet Little Room album (no label).
2011, released Haste Make / Hard Hearted Stranger album (no label)
2013, released This Side of Jordan album (Yep Roc).
2015, released Such Jubilee album (Yep Roc).
2016, released Blindfaller album (Yep Roc).
2019, released Tides of a Teardrop album (Yep Roc).
2019, changed the name of their act to Watchhouse.
2023, Marlin joined the supergroup Mighty Poplar.

Lauderdale, Jim

Posted on December 6, 2013September 26, 2023 by WR

JIM LAUDERDALE

From Troutman, North Carolina. Lives in Nashville.
A successful Nashville singer/songwriter who has written hits for Patty Loveless, Mark Chesnutt, Kathy Mattea, George Strait and many others.
Lived in New York City for several years, played bluegrass there and appeared in several musicals (“Pump Boys and Dinettes,” “The Cotton Patch Gospel,” etc). He has also lived and worked in Texas and California.
Has played in bands with Dwight Yoakam, Darden Smith, Carlene Carter and Lucinda Williams.
1998, released I Feel Like Singing Today, a collaboration with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.
2002, released second collaboration with Ralph Stanley called Lost in the Lonesome Pines (Dualtone) which won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album (in 2003).
2006, released Bluegrass album (Yep Roc).
2008, won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album for The Bluegrass Diaries album (Yep Roc).
Has studied and practiced the martial arts since 1995, focusing on Tai Chi and Chi Kong.
Since 2002, has hosted the Americana Music Awards Show in Nashville.
2010, released Patchwork River album (Thirty Tigers).
Is host of the popular weekly syndicated radio show “Music City Roots,” live from the Loveless Cafe.
2011, released Reason And Rhyme album (Sugar Hill).
2012, released Carolina Moonrise: Bluegrass Songs by Robert Hunter and Jim Lauderdale album (Alliance).
2013, released Black Roses album (Sky Crunch).
2013, released Blue Moon Junction album (Sky Crunch).
2013, released Old Time Angels album (Sky Crunch).
Co-hosts “The Buddy and Jim Show” (with Buddy Miller) on Sirius/XM Radio’s Outlaw Country channel.
2014, released I’m A Song album (Sky Crunch).
2015, released Soul Searching: Vol. 1 Memphis/Vol 2. Nashville album (Sky Crunch).
2023, released Long and Lonesome Letting Go album with the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys (Sky Crunch).

Caney Creek

Posted on April 10, 2019February 8, 2021 by WR

CANEY CREEK

From Ohio.
Formed in 2008 by Stacy Wilcox (banjo), Chris Smith (guitar) and Dave Prater (mandolin). In 2014, Joe Robinson (bass) joined the band. In 2017, Prater was replaced by Mitch Meadows (mandolin).
Their name comes from a little creek in southeast Kentucky, near Pikeville. There is also a song by the Dillards called “Caney Creek.”
2017, released first album Cool Kentucky Rain (no label).
2019, released The Tale of Willie Tackett album (9 Lives).

Marcus, Lee

Posted on December 17, 2013December 11, 2015 by WR

LEE MARCUS

From Westminster, South Carolina.
Has played banjo with Mercy Tree, Legacy Drive, and Blue Streek. Blue Streek won first place at the Georgia State Bluegrass Festival (2008).
2011, released solo project Grandpa’s Pond with guests Jim VanCleve, Cia Cherryholmes, Christian Ward and Josh Shilling.
2011, joined Wayne Taylor and Appaloosa, playing banjo.
2011, won first place in the International Songwriting Competition for his banjo tune “Gone Berserk.”
2012, led a campaign to have December 12 named as National Bluegrass Music Appreciation Day.
2012, left Wayne Taylor’s band and joined the military.

Wallace, Larry

Posted on January 6, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

LARRY WALLACE (THE LARRY WALLACE BAND)

From Starkville, Mississippi
Wallace played banjo with Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys for 10 years (1990-2000)
2002, formed the Larry Wallace Band and performed at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville.
2007, released Sunny Mountain Banjo album (Gusto).
2007, released “The Larry Wallace Band with Jim Brock” album on Cedar Creek Records.

Nance, David

Posted on December 20, 2013December 18, 2015 by WR

DAVID NANCE

From Oak Ridge, North Carolina (lives in Reidsville, NC).
Early in his career, he played Dobro™ with his father in a band called The Southland Playboys.
1982, he and his father worked with Bobby Atkins.
1983, joined The McPherson Brothers band.
1985, formed Big Sandy Bluegrass with Lynwood Lunsford, Tim Ashley and Adam Poindexter.
1987, joined Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys. Martin nicknamed Nance “Little Sweets.”
1997, released My Own Sweet Time album (no label).
2010, joined The Hagar’s Mountain Boys.

Dappled Grays, The

Posted on November 20, 2013October 6, 2015 by WR

THE DAPPLED GRAYS

From Atlanta, Georgia.
Formed in 2001 by Michael Smith (mandolin) and Casey Cook (guitar).
Won “Best Bluegrass Band” in Atlanta’s “Creative Loafing” magazine.
Had several of their songs played on MTV.
Smith has performed and toured with the country band Sugarland.
Cook had a Florida band with his brother called “Special Cookin'” and was inducted into the North Florida Bluegrass Hall of Fame as the youngest professional bluegrass band in Florida. He has also been featured in “Flatpick Guitar” magazine.
A “Dappled Gray” is a type of horse (with gray spots).
Other members of the band: Leah Calvert (fiddle), Keith Morris (bass), Greg Earnest (banjo.)
2007, released Doin My Job album (no label).
2012, they were featured in the Clint Eastwood movie “Trouble with the Curve.” They appeared in a scene with cloggers at a night club in Athens, Georgia. They performed two songs: “The Long Waltz Home” written by guitarist Casey Cook and the traditional tune “Cotton-Eyed Joe.”
2015, released “Last Night Tomorrow” album (no label).

Bales, Barry

Posted on October 10, 2014February 26, 2015 by WR

BARRY BALES

From Kingsport, Tennessee.
A bass player who is best known for his tenure with Alison Krauss and Union Station (since 1990).
He was also worked as a sideman on albums and performances by other artists including Merle Haggard, Shania Twain, the Civil Wars, Elvis Costello, Dolly Parton, the Chieftains, Del McCoury, Vince Gill, Kenny Chesney, and Willie Nelson.
He also is a songwriter and producer. He has produced albums by Adam Steffey, Sierra Hull and Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out.
An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys any form of wing shooting. He is most passionate about duck hunting, traveling North America in pursuit of waterfowl, as well as managing his own duck club.
2001, played bass on the soundtrack to the movie “O Brother Where Art Thou.”
2007, worked with the Dan Tyminsky band.
2013, formed a part-time Flatt and Scruggs tribute band with Jerry Douglas called The Earls of Leicester.
2014, won his third IBMA Award for Bass Player of the Year (also won in 2008, 2013).

Jarosz, Sara

Posted on December 1, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

SARA JAROSZ

From Wimberley, Texas (near Austin).
Began singing at two, playing piano at six, took up the mandolin at ten. She also plays plays clawhammer banjo and guitar.
2009, released first solo project Song Up In Her Head (Sugar Hill) at age 18.
2010, enrolled at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston.
2011, released Follow Me Down album (Sugar Hill).
2014, released Build Me Up From Bones album (Sugar Hill).
2016, released Undercurrent album (Sugar Hill).
2017, won two Grammy Awards, one in the Best Folk Album category for Undercurrent album (Sugar Hill) and another in the Best American Roots Performance category for “House of Mercy” from the same album.
2017, began touring and recording with Sara Watkins and Aoife O’Donovan as “I’m With Her.”

Darou, Chad

Posted on August 3, 2018June 30, 2022 by WR

CHAD DAROU

From Susquehanna, Pennsylvania.
Began playing music at age 8. He is an elite Dobro™ (resonator guitar) player, but he plays all the bluegrass instruments.
1982, at age 12 performed at the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville, Tennessee.
1987, at age 17 began performing with Bill Keith and Frank Wakefield.
Since then he has worked as a sideman with Del Reeves, Bill Harrell, The Gibson Brothers, Wheeler Creek, Bill Anderson, Boxcar Willie and James King.
2016, worked with the Dave Adkins band.
2018, released first solo project Raising the Bar (Bell Buckle), featuring guest artists Dave Adkins, Rick Faris, Greg Cahill, Valerie Smith, Cia Cherryholmes, Alecia Nugent, Jim VanCleve and others.
2018, signed with Mountain Fever Records.
2021, signed with Turnberry Records.
2022, released Susquehanna Line album (Turnberry). Darou plays all the instruments on the album with vocal performances by guest artists.

Farewell Drifters

Posted on November 23, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

THE FAREWELL DRIFTERS

From Nashville.
Formed in 2006 by Zach Bevill (guitar), Joshua Britt (mandolin), Trevor Brandt (banjo), and Ryan Pennington (bass).
They describe their music as “harmonic roots.” Others have described it as “bluegrass meets the Beach Boys.”
2008, released first album “Sweet Summer Breeze.”
2010, released Yellow Tag Mondays album (Heart Squeeze Records).
2011, released Echo Boom album (Heart Squeeze Records).
2013, released Tomorrow Forever album (Compass Records).

Maring, Wil

Posted on December 17, 2013January 3, 2022 by WR

WIL MARING

From Waterloo, Iowa. Grew up in Makanda, Illinois.
Given name: Lillian Maring (Wil is a nickname acquired in grade school).
She has a master’s degree in anthropology.
1989, she and German-born husband Mark Stoffel founded a band called Shady Mix in Illinois.
1992, they moved to Germany and re-formed Shady Mix there, becoming very popular in Europe.
2001, moved back to Illinois and re-formed Shady Mix once again with some of the original band members.
1998, won the Chris Austin song writing contest at MerleFest.
1998, released An Ocean from Home album (Bear Family).
2003, released The Turning of a Century album (Roan Pony).
2006, released The Calling album (Roan Pony).

Cannon, Melonie

Posted on November 10, 2013January 18, 2015 by WR

MELONIE CANNON

From Nashville. Born in Jackson, Tennessee.
Daughter of legendary country music songwriter & producer Buddy Cannon (Kenny Chesney, Reba McIntyre, Mel Tillis, George Jones, etc).
Her sister Maria Cannon-Goodman is also a successful songwriter (“Ten Rounds with Jose Cuervo,” etc.)
Started recording at age 14 (with Dean Dillon). Also worked as a teenager with Vern Gosdin, Bill Anderson. Recorded duet “Cry Cry Darlin'” with Sammy Kershaw at age 16.
Did a stint in the U.S. Army. In her own words “I had a wild streak that needed to be tamed.” The Army helped her learn self-discipline and self-respect. She was discharged for medical reasons, but the experience changed her life.
2004, released debut bluegrass album Melonie Cannon, produced by Ronnie Bowman (Skaggs Family Records).
2008, released And The Wheels Turn album (Rural Rhythm).

Cantrells, The

Posted on November 10, 2013 by WR

THE CANTRELLS

Husband-wife folk duo from Helena, Montana.
Have sung together since 1983. Had a band called “The Tractors.”
Emily is originally from Nankipoo, Tennessee; Al is from Seattle, Washington
Before moving to Montana, they lived and worked in Nashville as songwriters
Performed in the movie “A River Runs Through It” starring Robert Redford. When they performed for a cast party prior to the shooting of the movie, Redford liked them so much, he worked them into the movie. They appeared in the picnic scene.

Sawmill Road

Posted on December 30, 2013March 22, 2018 by WR

SAWMILL ROAD

Based in Carson City, NV.
Formed in 2006 by Steve Spurgin (bass and lead vocals), Mark Miracle (mandolin), Dick Brown (banjo), Charles Edsall (guitar) and Bruce Johnson (fiddle).
Spurgin previously was the lead singer with California and Bluegrass Etc. and was also known as a hit songwriter.
Johnson previously worked with Byron Berline & the LA Fiddle Band, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and the Laurel Canyon Ramblers.
Edsall previously worked with Feather River, High Strung and Ron Spears & Within Tradition.
Miracle previously worked with such bands as Shady Creek and Mountain Therapy.
Brown previously worked with the Lynn Morris Band, Traditional Bluegrass and Lost Highway.
2007, released first album Sawmill Road (no label)..
2008, Johnson was replaced by fiddler Doug Barlett, formerly with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
2009, released “Fire on the Kettle” album.
2010, broke up.
2018, reunited to perform on an occasional basis, with guitarist David Dickey replacing Edsall.

East Virginia

Posted on November 21, 2013June 5, 2018 by WR

EAST VIRGINIA

From Norfolk, Virginia.
Formed in 1974 by brothers Art and Joe McDonough.
The only bluegrass band to get its start in a barbershop. “Jack’s Barbershop” in Norfolk, Virginia held jam sessions on Friday nights. A bar owner across the street asked them to play (for free beer) and they came up with the name, based on one of the songs they had learned, “East Virginia Blues.”
1977, released “The Winds of East Virginia” album (Major).
1977, released “Sings of Witches and Whippoorwills” (Lark).
1979, released “New Sounds, New Seasons” album (Rounder).
1980, released “Pathways of Tradition” album (Rounder).
1981, broke up but re-united in 1999 to record “Back Home in East Virginia” album (Copper Creek).

Caplinger, Dennis

Posted on November 10, 2013August 19, 2021 by WR

DENNIS CAPLINGER

From Vista, California (near San Diego). Lives in Murietta, California (Riverside County).
Since 1980, plays banjo and fiddle with John Moore in the band Bluegrass Etc.
A busy sideman and studio musician in San Diego. Has performed on numerous TV commercials, films & TV shows. Credits include Back to the Future III & all of Kenny Roger’s “Gambler” movies. He has also appeared on the Martha Stewart TV Show, Cingular Wireless commercials and is a member of the Academy of Country Music’s house band.
Performs regularly with Tim Flannery (former San Diego Padres ballplayer).
Also produces many of CMH Records’ “Pickin’ On” series including tributes to Eric Clapton, Santana, Creed, The Rolling Stones, Led Zepplin, Bonnie Raitt, Jim Morrison, Queen, Neil Diamond, Dave Matthews Band, R.E.M., ZZ Top, Lynrd Skynrd, Black Crowes, Phish, Dolly Parton, Brooks & Dunn, Lonestar, Lee Ann Womack, Jo Dee Messina, Tim McGraw, Montgomery Gentry, Clint Black, Tracy Byrd, Counting Crows, Indigo Girls, LeeAnn Rimes, and Rod Stewart.
2021, died at the age of 57.

Marksmen Quartet, The

Posted on December 17, 2013July 15, 2020 by WR

THE MARKSMEN QUARTET

From Murrayville, Georgia.
A gospel quartet that formed in the early 1970’s.
Members: Earle Wheeler (bass), his son Mark Wheeler (guitar/banjo), Darrin Chambers (guitar/Dobro™), Tommy Dutton (mandolin.)
1991, won Video of the Year for “Grandpa Was a Farmer (Independent Country Music Awards).
1992, won a “Telly” award for their video “Wagon Tracks.”
1993-95, won SPBGMA award for Best Bluegrass Gospel Group.
2009, released Blue Ridge Mountain Memories: 20 Gospel Favorites album (Rural Rhythm).

Cardwell, Ray (and Tennessee Moon)

Posted on July 31, 2016December 29, 2021 by WR

RAY CARDWELL AND TENNESSEE MOON

From Springfield, Missouri.
1975, began singing with his family band The Cardwell Family (with his sisters Nancy and Susan). Nancy Cardwell is the former executive director of the IBMA.
1980’s, performed rock and reggae music, singing lead, playing keyboards and saxophone. Spent some time in Hollywood. Had a Missouri band called Resonance.
1992, returned to bluegrass with a group called Slick Nickel.
1994, joined the gospel group New Tradition. Moved to Nashville.
1996, returned to Springfield to spend time with his family and to pursue a degree in music education. Became a band and choral director, leading his students to win several national competitions. While teaching he also played with a rock/pop/reggae band called Squigglefish.
2016, moved to Nashville and formed a new bluegrass/newgrass band called Tennessee Moon.
2016, released Tennessee Moon album (Pinecastle).
2019, released Stand On My Own album (Bonfire).
2020, released Just a Little Rain album (Bonfire).
2021, joined rock singer-songwriter Dave Mason’s band.

Laughlin, Tim

Posted on December 6, 2013June 14, 2021 by WR

TIM LAUGHLIN

From Bristol, Tennessee.
Began playing guitar at age 8; switched to mandolin at age 11.
Has worked with Larry Sparks, Hazel Dickens, Appalachian Trail, The McPeak Brothers and the Lynn Morris Band, to name a few.
1985, formed his own band called Plexigrass.
1991, formed the Tim Laughlin Band.
Has won more than 100 mandolin competitions, including the Tennessee State Mandolin Championship.
2010, joined Marty Raybon and Full Circle.
2012, joined Big Country Bluegrass playing fiddle and mandolin.
2021, joined The Tennessee Bluegrass Band.

Daugherty, Caleb

Posted on June 11, 2019March 27, 2021 by WR

THE CALEB DAUGHERTY BAND

From Connersville, Indiana.
Began singing and playing guitar at age 7.
2016, appeared with Rhonda Vincent on the Grand Ole Opry.
2017, released self-titled country album (KDM).
2019, released Burnt the Sawmill Downalbum (KDM) with his bluegrass band The Caleb Daugherty Band: Zion Napier (mandolin), Kyle Clerkin (banjo), Zach Collier (bass), Kyle Ramey (fiddle).
2020, released single “Daylight’s Burning” (KDM)
2021, was a guest artist on the album Industrial Strength Bluegrass (Smithsonian) performing a duet with Rhonda Vincent.

Jeff and Vida

Posted on December 1, 2013December 10, 2015 by WR

JEFF AND VIDA

From Nashville (by way of New York City and New Orleans).
1997, Jeff Burke (mandolin) and Vida Wakeman (guitar) met in New York City.
1999, after attending MerleFest (and getting hooked on the music) they moved to New Orleans.
2001, began performing together full-time.
2003, released The Simplest Plans album (Binky).
Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, they relocated to Nashville.
2009, released fourth album Selma Chalk (Rosebank).

Carlini, John

Posted on November 10, 2013November 13, 2013 by WR

JOHN CARLINI

From Summit, New Jersey. Lives in Berkeley Heights, NJ.
Banjo and guitar player who was at the forefront of the new acoustic music movement in California during the 1970’s.
Graduate of Boston’s Berklee College of Music.
1979-87, served as music director for the Ice Capades.
1987, was a member of the David Grisman Quintet, playing guitar.
1992, did the orchestration for the off-Broadway production “The Song of Singapore.”
1994, recorded a guitar duet album with Tony Rice called “River Suite for Two Guitars.”
1994, Formed band “Over the Edge.”
1997, worked with the Nashville Mandolin Ensemble.
2000, formed the John Carlini Quartet.
Writes a monthly column for Flatpicking Guitar Magazine. Continue reading “Carlini, John”

Marks, Tad

Posted on December 17, 2013December 11, 2015 by WR

TAD MARKS

From Cooksville, Maryland.
1990-1992, played fiddle for the Del McCoury Band.
1992-1993, the Lynn Morris Band.
1994, the Kate McKenzie Band.
1995-1997, the James King Band.
2000, worked with Scottish folksinger Charlie Zahm.
2003, worked with Big Hillbilly Bluegrass.
2003, appeared in Chris Rock movie “Head of State.”
2006, released solo project Back Road Home (no label).

Marrone, Marty

Posted on December 17, 2013December 11, 2015 by WR

MARTY MARRONE (AND TANGLED ROOTS)

From St. Paul, Minnesota, originally from Pennsylvania.
Marrone is a guitarist and singer who began playing bluegrass in high school.
1990-1996, lived in Chicago and played with the Special Consensus.
2000, moved to Minnesota, worked a few dates with Monroe Crossing.
2005, formed his own band called Tangled Roots.
2006, released Seven Years With the Special Consensus album (Indys).
2010, released Life of a Dream album (no label).
2011, joined The High 48’s, playing guitar.

Balos Family, The

Posted on November 7, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

THE BALOS FAMILY

From Buchanan, Michigan.
A family of nine who travel the country singing and playing gospel music. Michael (dad on guitar) and Ramona (mom, bass) plus their seven kids: Kenny (guitar), Ben (mandolin), Jimmy (fiddle), Bonnie (banjo), Jenna (Dobro™), Nathanael and Joel (guitars).
2012, released album “Press Toward the Mark” featuring guest musicians Andy Leftwich, Jared Easter, Tony Mabe and others.

Balsam Range

Posted on November 1, 2013March 15, 2023 by WR

BALSAM RANGE

From Clyde, North Carolina.
Formed in 2007 by Marc Pruett (banjo), Caleb Smith (guitar), Darren Nicholson (mandolin), Tim Surrett (bass and resonator guitar) and Buddy Melton (fiddle).
Pruett has worked with Ricky Skaggs (played banjo on Skaggs’ landmark “Sweet Temptation” album in 1979 and was a founding member of Kentucky Thunder in 1996) and James Monroe. Also had a gospel group called “Harvest.”
Nicholson previously worked with Alecia Nugent.
Melton was formerly with Rock Springs Reunion (gospel group) and Jubal Foster (country band).
Surrett is a former member of the Isaacs and the Kingsmen.
Their name (Balsam Range) is the name of the mountain range on the southern edge of the Great Smokey Mountain National Park, surrounding the area where the band members live.
2007, released Marching Home album (Mountain Home)
2008, released Last Train To Kitty Hawk album (Mountain Home).
2010, became the first band to perform at the NASCAR Hall of Fame (at its opening) in Charlotte, NC.
2010, released Trains I Missed album (Mountain Home)
2011, won the IBMA Award for Song of the Year (for “Trains I Missed“).
2012, released Papertown album (Mountain Home).
2013, won the IBMA Award for Album of the Year (for Papertown).
2013, recorded an album with John Driskell Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band called Daylight.
2014, released their fifth album Five (Mountain Home).
2014, won IBMA Awards for Entertainer of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year (Buddy Melton)
2015, won IBMA Awards for Vocal Group of the Year and Song of the Year (for “Moon Over Memphis”).
2016, released Mountain Voodoo album (Mountain Home).
2017, released Christmas Time album (Mountain Home).
2018, released Mountain Overture album (Mountain Home) with the Atlanta Pops Orchestra Ensemble.
2018, won IBMA Awards for Entertainer of the Year (for the second time). Buddy Melton also won for Male Vocalist of the Year (also for the second time) and Tim Surrent won the award for Bass Player of the Year (his first in that category).
2019, released Aeonic album (Mountain Home).
2022, mandolin player Darren Nicholson left the band to purse a solo career. He was replaced by Alan Bibey.

Carbone, Justin

Posted on November 10, 2013January 18, 2015 by WR

JUSTIN CARBONE

From Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Lives in Nashville.
Plays both banjo and guitar. Got a banjo on his 12th birthday.
1998, formed a band in Pennsylvania called 2nd Edition.
2004-2009, played guitar with the Special Consensus.
2005, released solo album Take Some Time (Pinecastle).
2009, joined the Tina Adair Band. Continue reading “Carbone, Justin”

Pathway

Posted on December 22, 2013January 25, 2022 by WR

PATHWAY

From Mt. Airy, North Carolina.
Formed in 2007 by three brothers: Mitchell (bass), Mark (banjo), and Scott (fiddle) Freeman. Also in the band: Mark’s son Justin (guitar), Jake Long (mandolin) and Casey Byrd (Dobro™).
Mitchell and Mark worked in the late 1970’s with Barry and Kenneth Barrier in a band called Interstate Exchange. They retired from music in the 80’s and returned to form Pathway after their children were grown.
2009, released first album Somewhere Tonight (no label).

Acoustic Endeavers

Posted on October 28, 2013January 7, 2015 by WR

ACOUSTIC ENDEAVORS

Based in Jonesboro, Tennessee (later Nashville and most recently, Roanoke, Virginia)
Formed in 1994 by Warren Amberson (bass) and Kelly Green (guitar).
Amberson performed with the U.S. Army Bluegrass Band in Europe (the first Army bluegrass band in history).
Several members of the band attended East Tennessee State University (either students or alumni).
Band members have included Glen Rose, Tommy Austin, John Golden, Tommy Morse, Tim Laughlin, Ernie Power, Randy Utterbach and others.
2000, added banjo player John Lawless of AcuTab Publications and Bluegrass Today.
2014, vocalist and guitarist Kelly Green left the group due to problems with her voice (a neurological disorder called spasmodic dysfonia).

Marshall, Mike

Posted on December 17, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

MIKE MARSHALL

From the San Francisco Bay area.
He is of Italian descent; his family name is Marciarelli, which was shortened to Marshall.
1979, was an original member of the David Grisman Quintet.
1983, formed the Montreux Band, a new age jazz ensemble.
1987, formed the Modern Mandolin Quartet.
1995, traveled to Brazil and studied Brazilian choro music.
1996, formed Psychograss with Darol Anger, David Grier, Todd Philips and Tony Trischka.
1999, recorded and performed with Edgar Meyer, Joshua Bell and Sam Bush
2000, recorded and performed with NewGrange.
2002, released Into The Cauldron, an album of mandolin duets with Chris Thile (Sugar Hill).
2006, released Live Duets with Chris Thile (Sugar Hill).

Pedersen, Herb

Posted on December 22, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

HERB PEDERSEN

From Berkeley, California. Moved to Los Angeles (San Fernando Valley) in the 1960’s.
Began career in Bay Area playing in a band called The Pine Valley Boys with David Nelson (who later played with the New Riders of the Purple Sage) and Butch Waller (of High Country).
Early-sixties, worked briefly with Lester Flatt, filling in for Earl Scruggs who was recuperating from a hip operation.
Mid-sixties, joined the Northern California based group Vern and Ray (Vern Williams and Ray Park).
1968, took Doug Dillard’s place in The Dillards. While with The Dillards, recorded two landmark albums Wheatstraw Suite and Copperfields (Elektra Records).
1972, left the Dillards and formed The Country Gazette with Byron Berline, but did not stay with the band. He was replaced by Alan Munde.
1972-1985, worked full-time as a session musician, songwriter, vocalist and producer in Los Angeles. During this time, he produced the highly-acclaimed “Trio” album for Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton and Linda Ronstadt. He also worked on John Denver and the Muppets A Christmas Together album and many others in addition to recording several solo albums of his own.
1984, released solo project Lonesome Feeling (Sugar Hill).
1985, formed The Desert Rose Band with Chris Hillman (broke up in 1993).
Sang on the soundtrack to the movie “City Slickers” starring Billy Crystal.
1994, formed a Los Angeles bluegrass band called The Laurel Canyon Ramblers.
1998, 2000, recorded and performed with Tony Rice, Larry Rice and Chris Hillman as Out Of The Woodwork (Rounder) and as Rice, Rice, Hillman & Pedersen (Rounder). They recorded a third album titled Running Wild (Rounder).
2002, formed a duo with Chris Hillman (Byrds, Desert Rose Band). They have recorded and toured as Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen.
2009, formed a local (San Fernando Valley) bluegrass band called Loafer’s Glory with Tom Sauber, Pat Sauber and Bill Bryson.
Currently performs with Loafer’s Glory, Hillman and Pedersen, the Desert Rose Band and the John Jorgensen Bluegrass Band.

Penn Central

Posted on November 28, 2018November 28, 2018 by WR

PENN CENTRAL

From Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
Formed in 1981 by Mark Rickert (guitar) and Steve Huber (banjo). Other members of the band included Todd Clewell (bass), Wally Hughes (Dobro™ and fiddle). On their recordings, they were joined by special guests Phil Rosenthal (mandolin) and Mike Auldridge (Dobro™) of the Seldom Scene.
1984, released “Play One More” album (Baldwin).
1991, released “Bluefire” album (Platinum).

Martin, Benny

Posted on December 17, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

BENNY MARTIN

From Sparta, Tennessee.
Full name: Benny Edward Martin, Sr.
John Hartford called him “The World’s Greatest Unknown Fiddle Player.”
1944, began musical career with Big Jeff and the Radio Playboys.
1946, Milton Estes and His Musical Millers (on the Grand Ole Opry.)
1947, joined Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1947, worked with Roy Acuff.
1952-1954, worked with Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs.
1954, worked with Johnny and Jack.
1955, embarked on a solo career as a vocalist. Signed by Mercury Records. Act was called “Big Tige and the Little Tigers.”
1956, joined the Grand Ole Opry.
Had the same manager as Elvis Presley, Col. Tom Parker. He was a frequent opening act for Elvis.
Was a close friend and drinking buddy of Hank Williams, Sr.
Invented an 8-string fiddle which never caught on. The only other performer to use it professionally was John Hartford.
1976, released Tennessee Jubilee album (Flying Fish), produced by John Hartford.
1997, received an IBMA Distinguised Achievement Award.
1999, released The Big Tiger Roars Again album (OMS) with guests Tom T. Hall, Earl Scruggs, Vince Gill, John Hartford, Ricky Skaggs, Jim & Jesse, Johnny Russell and others.
2001, released Big Tiger Roars Again (Part 2) album (OMS), his last.
2001, died on March 13. Sadly, one of his closest friends, John Hartford, also died the same year.
2005, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Benny Martin: Just Me & My Fiddle (BACM, 2010)
Fiddle Collection (CMH, 2007)

Sawtelle, Charles

Posted on December 30, 2013 by WR

CHARLES SAWTELLE

From Boulder Colorado.
Played guitar for the group Hot Rize.
After the group disbanded in 1990, he built “Rancho De Ville” a vintage recording studio in Boulder.
1993, was diagnosed with leukemia. He died from the disease in 1999.
2001, an album was released posthumously of music recorded at his studio. It was nominated for an IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year.

Hall, Andy

Posted on November 30, 2013March 1, 2015 by WR

ANDY HALL

From Binghamton, New York. Lives now in Nashville.
One of the top Dobro™ players in bluegrass music.
Early musical career, was a member of several New England bands: the Bag Boys, the Too High String Band, Boston City Limits.
A graduate of the Berklee School of Music in Boston. It was there that he met Chris Eldridge and Chris Pandolfi (who later joined him in the Infamous Stringdusters).
Moved to Nashville, arriving on September 10, 2001, the day before the terrorist attacks. First break was landing a job with Harley Allen.
2003, joined Ronnie Bowman’s band with Wyatt Rice (guitar) and Jesse Cobb (mandolin).
2004-5, toured and recorded with Dolly Parton, Earl Scruggs Charlie Daniels, Ronnie Bowman, Moody Bluegrass, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Alecia Nugent and his own band Short Life of Trouble.
1994, released Redwing album (no label).
2005, was a founding member of the Infamous Stringdusters.
2007, released Sound of the Slide Guitar album (Sugar Hill).

Tate, Clarence “Tater”

Posted on January 1, 2014 by WR

CLARENCE “TATER” TATE

From Gate City, Virginia.
A pioneering bluegrass fiddler.
Began his career in country music in the late 40’s, and was introduced to bluegrass when he worked with Bill Monroe for eight months in 1956.
Mid-60’s, worked with The Shenandoah Cutups—a group that backed the late Red Smiley on several albums.
1977-79, worked with Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass.
1979-84, worked with Wilma Lee Cooper’s Clinch Mountain Clan.
1984, re-joined Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys playing bass.
1992, inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame.
Died in 2007.

Carolina Blue

Posted on March 13, 2016May 2, 2022 by WR

CAROLINA BLUE

From Brevard, North Carolina.
Formed in 2007 after the release of the album “Nothing So Blue” (no label) by Bobby Powell (guitar) and Tim Jones (mandolin). The album was produced by Woody Platt of the Steep Canyon Rangers.
Other members of the band: Reese Combs (bass), Seth Rhinehart (banjo) and Emma Best (fiddle).
Powell and Jones write much of the band’s original material. Jones’ song “Spring Will Bring the Flowers” was recorded by Balsam Range.
2011, won the South Carolina state bluegrass championship (band contest) at RenoFest. They also released an album “Live at RenoFest” (no label).
2016, released Goin Home Today album (no label).
2017, released Sounds of Kentucky Grass album (Poor Mountain).
2017, fiddle player Aynsley Porchak joined the band.
2019, released I Hear Bluegrass Calling Me album (Pinecastle).
2020, made first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.
2020, released Take Me Back album (Billy Blue).
2022, Powell left the band to join Nick Chandler and Delivered.

Carolina Road

Posted on November 10, 2013February 23, 2023 by WR

CAROLINA ROAD (See LORRAINE JORDAN)

Easter, Jeff and Sheri

Posted on November 20, 2013January 31, 2019 by WR

JEFF AND SHERI EASTER

From Lincolnton, Georgia.
Sheri is the daughter of Polly Lewis (Williamson) of the Lewis Family and Jeff is the son of James Easter of the Easter Brothers. Their marriage brought together the two most well known family groups bluegrass gospel music.
1984, they met at the Albert Brumley Gospel Sing in Springdale, Arkansas.
1985, they married and began performing together as part of the Lewis Family show.
1988, they struck out on their own.
Since then, they have become one of the most popular recording and touring acts in southern gospel music. They have won numerous Dove awards and are regulars on Bill Gaither’s “Homecoming” TV programs.

Dauphinais Brothers, The

Posted on January 12, 2016July 12, 2016 by WR

THE DAUPHINAIS BROTHERS

From Asheville, North Carolina. Originally from New Hampshire.
Brothers Nick and Lucas Dauphinais (pronounced DAH-FIN-AE) are of French ancestry.
Nick plays guitar, Lucas plays bass. Other band members: Derek Vaden (banjo), Griff Martin (mandolin) and Laura Smith (fiddle).
Nick graduated from University of New Hampshire with a degree in jazz and orchestral trombone.
2015, released Empty Teardops album (no label).
2016, Nick joined Mountain Faith (but continues to perform with his brother. He also works occasional dates with Mark Kuykendall and Bobby Hicks).

Wallace, Matt

Posted on January 18, 2014February 9, 2020 by WR

MATT WALLACE

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
Began playing bass at age 10.
Has played bass with David Parmley and Continental Divide, Audie Blaylock and Redline, Pine Mountain Railroad, and Paul Williams and The Victory Trio.
2013, joined the Mark Newton and Steve Thomas band.
2014, joined Terry Baucom’s band The Dukes of Drive.
2014, released solo project For a Season (Pinecastle).

Waller, Charlie

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

CHARLIE WALLER (SEE THE COUNTRY GENTLEMEN)

Hall, Tom T.

Posted on November 30, 2013August 22, 2021 by WR

TOM T. HALL

From Olive Hill, Kentucky. Lives in Nashville.
Nickname: “The Storyteller.” He is a member of the Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.
Began playing guitar at age 4; wrote his first song at age 9.
Age 17, formed his first band The Kentucky Travelers.
As a recording artist he has had seven #1 songs: “A Week in a Country Jail” (1969–70), “The Year That Clayton Delaney Died” (1971),“Old Dogs, Children and) Watermelon Wine” (1972–73),” “I Love” (1973–74), “Country Is” (1974), “I Care” (1974–75), and “Faster Horses (the Cowboy and the Poet)” (1976). Other notable hits: “The Ballad of Forty Dollars” (1968), “Me and Jesus” (1972).
1968, his “Harper Valley PTA,” recorded by Jeannie C. Riley, became a huge international hit on both pop and country charts, selling nearly 2 million records in two weeks.
First bluegrass hit: “Fox on the Run” (1976, from the album Magnificent Music Machine (Mercury) with musicians Bill Monroe, J. D. Crowe, Jimmy Martin, Kenny Baker and others.)
1971, became a member of the Grand Old Opry.
1982, recorded an album with Earl Scruggs called Storyteller & The Banjo Man (Mercury).
1982, ran for Governor of Tennessee (lost.)
1998, released second bluegrass album Homegrown (Mercury).
2005, he and his wife Dixie formed Blue Circle Records to promote young emerging bluegrass talent.
2007, released Tom T. Hall Sings Miss Dixie & Tom T. (Blue Circle).
2008, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2011, was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.
2012, was presented with the BMI “Icon” Award for his lifetime songwriting achievements.
2015, Dixie Hall (“Miss Dixie”) died at the age of 80.
2018, Tom T. and Dixie were together inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2021, Tom died at the age of 85.

Taylor, Earl

Posted on January 1, 2014December 31, 2015 by WR

EARL TAYLOR (AND THE STONEY MOUNTAIN BOYS)

From Virginia.
A legendary mandolin player and singer who for most of his career led a band called the Stoney Mountain Boys in the Cincinnati, Ohio area.
1955-57, worked with Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
1958, moved to Baltimore, Maryland and formed the Stoney Mountain Boys.
1959, his was the first bluegrass band to perform at New York’s Carnegie Hall.
1960, relocated to the Cincinnati, Ohio area and played in night clubs there for several years.
1963, released his landmark “Blue Grass Taylor-made” album (Capitol Records) with his new band The Blue Grass Mountaineers.
1964-1967, disbanded his group and worked with Jimmy Martin, the Stanley Brothers and Flatt and Scruggs.
1967, returned to the Cincinnati area and re-organized the Stoney Mountain Boys with guitarist Jim McCall. He recorded several albums in subsequent years for Rural Rhythm and Vetco Records.
1974, poor health and the death of his son led to his retirement from music for several years. He resumed performing in the early 80’s with banjo player Vernon McIntyre.
Died of a heart attack in 1984.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

20 Bluegrass Favorites (Rural Rhythm)
24 Bluegrass Favorites (Rural Rhythm)
Blue Grass Taylor-Made (Capitol).

Acuff, Roy

Posted on October 28, 2013June 21, 2024 by WR

ROY ACUFF (AND THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN BOYS)

From Maynardsville, Tennessee.
Known as “The King of Country Music.” Originally called “The King of the Hillbillies.”
A man of many talents: he was a professional baseball player, an actor in a touring medicine show, a recording artist with several million-sellers to his credit, a member of the Grand Ole Opry for more than 50 years, a star of radio, television and movies, a co-founder of one of the most famous music publishing companies in the world, co-founder of a record company, candidate for Governor of Tennessee, owner of a recreational park, director of a museum, a Shriner, owner of a peacock hatchery, a songwriter, a musician, and the first living person elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
1962, elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
1936, first sang “The Great Speckled Bird,” at the Grand Ole Opry with his band “The Crazy Tennesseans” (The song comes from a passage in the Bible, Jeremiah 12:9).
1938, joined the Grand Ole Opry and was its first international star.1974, taught President Richard Nixon how to yo-yo on stage at the Grand Ole Opry.
Had a collection of more than 2200 miniature liquor bottles; also collected dolls, guns and musical instruments.
Died in 1992 at age 89.

RECOMMENDED: The Essential Roy Acuff (Columbia, 2008) A nice collection of his best-known songs including “The Great Speckled Bird,” “Wreck on the Highway” and “Wabash Cannonball.”

Gambetta, Beppe

Posted on November 27, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

BEPPE GAMBETTA

From Genoa, Italy. Now living in New Jersey.
Beppe is pronounced Bay-pay.
He was trained as a classical musician, but after hearing bluegrass, converted to flat-pick guitar.
Europe’s original and best known bluegrass/folk guitarist; performs in the both the flatpicking and fingerpicking styles.
He was a founding member of the Italian bluegrass and country music band Red Wine.
Has recorded and performed with many American artists, including Norman Blake, Alan Munde, Tony Trischka and Dan Crary.
Winner of Italy’s prestigious Paolo Nuti award, given by the Italian Federation Folkitalia in special recognition of artists who have achieved excellence in their field.
2001, recorded an album of guitar duets with Dan Crary, Synergia (Thunderation).
2013, released The American Album (Gadfly Records).

Sawtooth Mountain Boys, The

Posted on December 30, 2013June 29, 2015 by WR

THE SAWTOOTH MOUNTAIN BOYS

From Monmouth (Willamette Valley), Oregon.
Oregon’s “original bluegrass band.”
Formed in 1970 by Steve Waller (mandolin) and Mike Eisler (banjo). Before then, the two had a group called the Sawtooth Mountain Volunteers. They were both students at Oregon State University at the time.
The band was named after a mountain range in Idaho.
Waller died in June, 2015.

Schankman Twins, The

Posted on December 30, 2013December 28, 2015 by WR

THE SCHANKMAN TWINS

From Calabasas, California (San Fernando Valley).
A bluegrass/country duo featuring Identical twins Dana (banjo) and Lauren (fiddle).
They both played the role of “Heather” on the CBS TV soap opera “Young and the Restless.”
Their first “bluegrass” influence: a Donald Duck and Goofy record with “Dueling Banjos” on it.
Dana won the Topanga Banjo contest and the New York City banjo contest, both at age 14.
They began performing bluegrass music professionally when they were 16 years old (1996).
1996, released Duality album (City West).
An early highlight of their musical career was performing with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.
2002, graduated from UCLA, both majoring in ethno-musicology.
2002, signed with Rounder Records.
2004, released an album (country) Malibu Storm under the name Malibu Storm.
2010, after a five-year hiatus from music to marry and have children, they returned to performing and recording as Dana and Lauren. First single: a cover of Tupac Shakur’s “California Love.”

Perkins, Larry

Posted on December 22, 2013December 23, 2015 by WR

LARRY PERKINS

Originally from Grant County, Indiana. Lived for many years in Nashville (rented a house from Earl Scruggs). Currently lives in North Carolina.
A Nashville session musician (guitar and banjo); performed regularly with The Sidemen.
Formerly a member of the Nashville Grass and Lonesome Standard Time.
Heroes: Uncle Dave Macon and Earl Scruggs.
Was a close friend of Scruggs. Helped him regain his strength following hip surgery by working out with him on a regular basis.
1993, released A Touch of the Past album (Pinecastle).
1996, joined John Hartford’s String Band.
1998, released “Glad Reunion Day” album (RME).
2008, released “Three Fingers and a Clawhammer” album with LeRoy Troy and Terry Eldridge (no label).

Off the Rails

Posted on August 14, 2024 by WR

OFF THE RAILS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2023 by Cory Chubb (guitar), Ben Hill (mandolin), Taylor Gerber (bass), Lucas White (guitar), Cody Bauer (fiddle), and Frank Evans (banjo).
2024, released first single Coming Home to You (no label).
2024, won first place in the band contests at the 88th Galax (Virginia) Old-Time Fiddler’s Convention and the RockyGrass (Colorado) Bluegrass Festival.

Hamilton County Ramblers

Posted on December 15, 2015February 9, 2020 by WR

HAMILTON COUNTY RAMBLERS

From Chattanooga, Tennessee (which is in Hamilton County).
Members: James Boulware (fiddle), James Kee (mandolin), Josh Hixson (bass), Roy Curry (guitar), Jim Pankey (banjo).
Curry (guitar) has won the Winfield National Flatpick Guitar championship three times. He also won the Minnesota and Tennessee State Flatpicking championships.
Boulware (fiddle) is a third generation fiddler. He has won the Tennessee State fiddle championship and has also been a featured soloist with the Murfreesboro Symphony Orchestra.
Pankey (banjo) has won the Tennessee and Georgia banjo championships.
2015, released self titled album (ByGabbled).

Ramsey, Aaron

Posted on December 23, 2013January 11, 2020 by WR

AARON RAMSEY

From Morganton, North Carolina.
Began playing mandolin when he was 12 years old in a Gospel bluegrass band called Damascus Road. His father Michael Ramsey played bass in that band.
2002, at age 17 played mandolin and guitar with the Linville Ridge Band.
2004, released solo project Aaron Ramsey (no label).
2006, joined Randy Kohrs and the Lites.
2007, joined Mountain Heart.
2013, released solo project “Gathering.”
2020, joined Volume Five , playing mandolin.

Carpenter and May

Posted on November 10, 2013January 18, 2015 by WR

CARPENTER AND MAY

From Nashville.
A duo featuring Fred Carpenter on fiddle (formerly with Tony Rice Unit, the Dillards, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time) and Tim May on guitar (formerly with Mike Snider, John Cowan, Crucial Smith).
2010, released Carpenter & May album (Violin Shop Records).

Carr, Joe

Posted on November 10, 2013September 29, 2020 by WR

JOE CARR

From Dallas, Texas. Lived and worked in Levelland, Texas.
1974, formed Texas band called Roanoke.
1977-1982, worked with The Country Gazette (with Alan Munde and Roland White).
1984, joined the faculty of South Plains College (Levelland, Texas) as a “bluegrass specialist” in the commercial music program. He is founder of the school’s “Camp Bluegrass” which is held in July of each year.
1994, formed a duo with Alan Munde.
2003, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. He continues to teach music at South Plains College.
Has produced numerous instruction books for guitar and mandolin for Mel Bay Publishing. He also writes frequently for Flatpicking Guitar Magazine.
2014, died at the age of 63.

Davidson Brothers, The

Posted on August 27, 2014January 29, 2018 by WR

THE DAVIDSON BROTHERS

From Yinnar, Victoria, Australia (just east of Melbourne).
Features brothers Hamish (banjo/fiddle) and Lachlan (mandolin/fiddle) Davidson. They began performing together as teenagers.
Hamish is the younger brother. He won the Australian Bluegrass Fiddle Championship in 2000 and the Australian Bluegrass Banjo Championship in 2009. He is a chiropractor by trade.
Lachlan is a year older than Hamish. He won the Australian Bluegrass Mandolin Championship in 2008, 2009 and 2010. He is a mechanical engineer by trade.
2009, 2010, 2012, won Instrumental of the Year at the Australian Country Music Awards.
2010, won Group of the Year at the Australian Independent Country Music Awards.
2012, won Album of the Year at the Australian Independent Country Music Awards (for “Here to Stay” album).
2014, released “Wanderlust” album.
2017, they were inducted into the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame.
2018, won two CMAA Awards (Country Music Association of Australia) for Best Bluegrass Album (for their “Back Where I Started” album) and Best Instrumental Recording (for “Evelyn’s Kitchen”).

Kallick, Kathy

Posted on December 2, 2013October 7, 2015 by WR

KATHY KALLICK

From the San Francisco Bay Area (She is originally from the Chicago area. Her Mom was a prominent folksinger there. She moved to the Bay Area in 1973.)
1975, co-founded (with Laurie Lewis) The Good Ol’ Persons (disbanded 1995). She also worked and recorded at various times with the Frank Wakefield Band.
1991, recorded a duet album with Laurie Lewis titled Together (Sugar Hill).
1993, recorded first solo album, Matters Of The Heart (Sugar Hill Records).
1994, formed “The Little Big Band” with Keith Little (banjo), plus John Reischmann (mandolin), Sally Van Meter (Dobro™) and Todd Phillips (bass).
Won two “Parents Choice” awards for her children’s albums “What Do You Dream About” (1990) and Use a Napkin, Not Your Mom! (1995, Sugar Hill).
1996, released Call Me A Taxi album (Sugar Hill)
1997, received two IBMA awards and a Grammy for her part on “True Life Blues: The Songs Of Bill Monroe.”
1998, released Walkin in My Shoes album on her own label (Live Oak Records).
1999, formed the Kathy Kallick Band and released What Do You Dream About album (Live Oak Records).
2002, released My Mother’s Voice album (Copper Creek Records).
2004, released Reason & Rhyme album (Copper Creek Records).
2005, released Warmer Kind of Blue album (Copper Creek Records).
2009, fiddler Annie Staninec and bassist Greg Booth join the Kathy Kallick Band. Other members include Cary Black (bass) and Tom Bekeny (mandolin).
2010, released Between the Hollow & The High-Rise album (Live Oak Records).
2011, released a gospel collection, Count Your Blessings (Live Oak Records).
2012, released Time album (Live Oak Records).
2014, released Cut to the Chase album (Live Oak Records).
2014, released a duet album “Laurie Lewis and Kathy Kallick Sing the Songs of Vern and Ray” (Spruce and Maple).
2015, released “Foxhounds” album (Live Oak Records).

Schatz, Mark

Posted on December 30, 2013April 29, 2024 by WR

MARK SCHATZ

From Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Grew up in Lexington, Massachusetts (near Boston). Has also lived in Maryland, Nashville, Berkeley, California.
Best known as one of the top acoustic bass players in bluegrass music.
First band: Mandala, a folk dance group, while he was still in college.
1978, formed Tasty Licks with Bela Fleck, Pat Enright, Jack Tottle, Robin Kincaid, Stacy Phillips.
1981, moved to Nashville and formed Spectrum with Glenn Lawson, Bela Fleck, Jimmy Gaudreau and Jimmy Mattingly.
1983, played country music (electric bass) in various bands around Nashville. Worked with Pam Tillis, Pure Prairie League, others.
1985, joined the Tony Rice Unit, playing bass.
1990-1998, played bass with Tim and Mollie O’Brien as one of the O’Boys.
Also plays clawhammer-style banjo (his banjo is heard on the theme for the IBMA awards show.)
1995, released solo project Brand New Old Tyme Way album (Rounder). Began performing as Mark Schatz and friends.
He is an accomplished dancer. He served as musical director for the dance troupe Footworks.
1996, he performed with the hit show Riverdance.
1998, formed a side band with Tim O’Brien, Jerry Douglas and Charlie Cushman called The Flatt Heads. Also worked with John Hartford.
1994, 1995, won the IBMA award for Bass Player of the Year.
2003-2007, began performing regularly (on bass) with Nickel Creek.
2006, released second solo album Steppin’ in the Boiler House (Rounder) featuring his clawhammer banjo playing & original songs.
2008, joined the Claire Lynch band.
2014, re-joined Nickel Creek for their 25th anniversary tour.
2019, his wife, dancer Eileen Carson Schatz (founder and director of the Footworks Dance ensemble, died of cancer.
2021, released Grit and Polish album (Patuxent) with fiddler Bryan McDowell, his former bandmate in the Claire Lynch band.
2022, moved to Berkeley, California and has been playing with several California musicians.
2023, toured with Bela Fleck’s “My Bluegrass Heart” and “Rhapsody in Bluegrass.”

Carroll County Ramblers, The

Posted on November 10, 2013 by WR

THE CARROLL COUNTY RAMBLERS

From Carroll County in north central Maryland.
Formed in 1961 by husband and wife Leroy and Dottie Eyler. LeRoy died in 1995.
They have recorded more than a dozen albums on Zap, Adelphi, Fonotone and Alear Records.
2011, the band includes Bonnie Eyler (bass), Dale Eyler (fiddle), Steve Waldon (banjo) and Dave Dulaney (guitar). Bonnie and Dale are second generation Eylers.
2011, they celebrated their 50th anniversary.
2012, received a special proclamation from the State of Maryland for their contributions to the arts.

Raven, Eddy

Posted on April 30, 2018June 22, 2023 by WR

EDDY RAVEN

From LaFayette, Louisiana.
Real name: Edward Garvin Futch. In 1962 he changed his name to Eddy Raven when he released his first single at age 17.
As a country artist he has had numerous hit records including “I Got Mexico,” “Shine Shine Shine,” “I’m Gonna Get You,” “Joe Knows How to Live,” “In a Letter to You,” and many others.
As a songwriter, he has written songs recorded by Elvis Costello, Johnny Cash, Kenny Chesney, Roy Orbison, George Jones, Toby Keith, Waylon Jennings, Lefty Frizzell, Carl Smith, Heather Myles, Brenda Lee, Don Gibson, Faron Young, Jack Greene, Gene Watson, Jerry Jeff Walker, Lorrie Morgan, Roy Acuff, Jerry Reed, Oak Ridge Boys, Connie Smith and Charlie Louvin.
He has 30 ASCAP song writing awards, 8 No. 1’s, 14 Top 10’s, 23 Top 100’s, and 24 Albums to his credit.
2017, recorded and released a bluegrass album with Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road called All Grassed Up (Pinecastle).

Band of Ruhks

Posted on January 30, 2015July 19, 2018 by WR

BAND OF RUHKS

From Nashville.
Formed in 2013 as “The Rambling Rooks” by Ronnie Bowman (bass), Don Rigsby (mandolin) and Kenny Smith (guitar). The three of them previously worked together in the Lonesome River Band (1995-2001)
2015, changed the band name to Band of Ruhks released their first album on 101 Ranch Records. “Ruhks” is Persian word that means “a warrior’s chariot.”

Naiditch, David

Posted on December 20, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

DAVID NAIDITCH

From Los Angeles, California.
Has played harmonica around the L.A. area since the 1960’s (he taught harmonica at the famed Ash Grove).
2011, released Bluegrass Harmonica album (no label), the first ever bluegrass album featuring the “chromatic harmonica” (which differs from the diatonic harmonica used by such notables as Mike Stevens and Charlie McCoy).
2014, released Bluegrass in the Backwoods album (no label).

Banjocats, The

Posted on December 11, 2013 by WR

THE BANJOCATS (SEE MICHAEL AND JENNIFER MCLAIN BAND)

Schwimmer, Peter

Posted on December 30, 2013 by WR

PETER SCHWIMMER

From New York. Lived several years in Colorado before moving to Portland, Oregon.
Has played with several bluegrass bands from New York to Seattle, including The Virginia Mountain Boys, Del McCoury’s Dixie Pals, and Generic Bluegrass.
1983-1989, played banjo with Front Range.
1985, won the banjo, mandolin and guitar contests at Telluride.
1998, joined Sam Hill (an Oregon-based band).

Raybon, Tim (Band)

Posted on December 9, 2021 by WR

THE TIM RAYBON BAND

See MERLE MONROE

Carson, Russ

Posted on November 10, 2013January 18, 2015 by WR

RUSS CARSON

From Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
Plays banjo.
2009-10, worked with Gold Heart.
2010, joined Audie Blaylock and Redline.
2011, released solo project Last Chance on Patuxent Records.
2014, joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
2014, released Avenue of the Giants album (Patuxent).

Bankesters, The

Posted on November 1, 2013April 21, 2023 by WR

THE BANKESTERS

From Carbondale, Illinois.
Began performing as a family band in 2004.
The original band featured mom and dad Dorene (guitar) and Phil (guitar) Bankester with daughters Melissa (bass), Alysha (mandolin & fiddle) and Emily (fiddle). Kyle Triplett (married to Melissa) is also a member of the band (banjo/guitar/Dobro™).
2009, released first video.
2011, released third CD on Blue Circle Records, featuring a guest appearance by Jamie Johnson of The Grascals.
2012, Emily Bankester won IBMA’s “Momentum Award” for Vocalist of the Year.
2013, released Love Has Wheels album (Alliance Records).
2013, released Looking Forward album (Compass Records).
2017, released Nightbird album (Compass Records.)
2017, decided to call it quits as a band.
Emily married Mo Pitney and often performs with him in churches and other gospel music shows.

Barbed Wire Cutters, The

Posted on November 1, 2013December 4, 2014 by WR

THE BARBED WIRE CUTTERS

From Bellingham, Washington.
Members of the band: Korby Lenker (guitar), Bruce Shaw (mandolin), Adam Carp (banjo), Josh Brahinsky (fiddle) and Christopher Glass (fiddle).
They were called “young riders of the bluegrass revolt.” (SPIN Magazine)
2002, won Best Bluegrass Band competition at the Columbia Gorge Bluegrass festival.
2003, released first album Barbed Wire Cutters (Blue Light).

Barber, Junior

Posted on November 1, 2013December 4, 2014 by WR

JUNIOR BARBER

From Plattsburgh, New York.
He played drums and electric guitar in rock bands before eventually turning to the Dobro™ guitar.
1993-2002, worked for the Gibson Brothers. His son Mike has continued to play bass for the Gibson Brothers.
2001, recorded a solo album produced by Alan O’Bryant, Steffi’s Waltz.
2002, played dates with Gary Ferguson and Sally Love.
2003, formed a three-piece band called “Beartracks.”

Hammertowne

Posted on February 27, 2015December 20, 2023 by WR

HAMMERTOWNE

From East Kentucky.
Formed in 2011 by Scott Tackett (guitar), father and son Dave and Chaston Carroll (guitar and mandolin), Brent Pack (banjo) and Doug Burchett (bass).
Dave Carroll is a prolific songwriter. His songs have been recorded by the Lonesome River Band, Junior Sisk, Lou Reid and Carolina, IIIrd Tyme Out, other artists.
2013, released Hammertowne album (Mountain Fever).
2015, Bryan Russell joined the band, replacing Burchett on bass.
2015, released Highways & Heartaches album (Mountain Fever).
2015, Scott Tackett released his solo project Looking Back (Kindred Records) which was the 2011 project that brought Hammertowne together.
2016, Pack left the band to become a full-time National Parks Ranger. He was replaced by David Barnett.
2017, Pack returned to the band.
2017, released Hillbilly Heroes album (Mountain Fever).
2019 lineup: Dave Carroll (guitar), Dale Thomas (banjo), Scott Tackett (guitar), Doug Bartlett (fiddle), Chaston Carroll on (mandolin), and Bryan Russell (bass).
2019, Bryan Russell (bass) left the band due to health issues. Doug Burchett took his place on a temporary basis.
2021, Russell returned to the band.
2023, Thomas (banjo) left the band.

Daves, Michael

Posted on November 15, 2014December 31, 2016 by WR

MICHAEL DAVES

From Atlanta, Georgia. Lives in Brooklyn, New York.
Pronounced DAVE’S (not Davis or Davies).
Grew up in a musical family with bluegrass and country roots. Also studied music at Hampshire College (Western Massachusetts) and played there with a number of jazz, rock and Americana groups. His primary instrument is guitar.
2002, formed an old-time string band called Underbelly, opening for Bob Dylan in ’03.
2003, moved to Brooklyn, New York and began playing with several bluegrass bands including his own group The Bluegrass Mob.
He is a music teacher (private lessons) and also has a recording studio. He performs weekly at New York’s Rockwood Music Hall as a solo artist and also hosts a monthly bluegrass jam there.
2007, released a solo project, Live at the Rockwood (no label).
2011, recorded an album of duets with Chris Thile called Sleep With One Eye Open (Nonesuch Records).
2013, formed a duo with fiddler Brittany Haas.
Has performed with Steve Martin, Tony Trischka, Rosanne Cash, Bruce Molsky, Sara Jarosz, many others.
2016, released Orchids and Violence album (Nonesuch), a two-CD set featuring the same songs on each CD, but performed in two different styles: bluegrass and alternative-rock.

Carter, Jason

Posted on November 10, 2013October 21, 2024 by WR

JASON CARTER

From Greenup County, Kentucky. Lives in Nashville.
While in high school, played guitar with a group called Idle Times.
After high school, played fiddle with the Goins Brothers.
1992, joined the Del McCoury Band at age 19, playing fiddle. He had only been playing fiddle for two years at that time.
1997, released solo album On the Move (Rounder).
2002, formed a part-time band with David Parmley called White House.
He also performs with Ronnie and Rob McCoury in The Travelin’ McCourys.
2014, won his fifth IBMA Award for Fiddle Player of the Year (also won in 1997, 1998, 2003, 2013).
2024, married fiddler Bronwyn Keith-Hynes in a ceremony performed at the Grand Ole Opry.

Waller, Randy

Posted on January 6, 2014December 13, 2019 by WR

RANDY WALLER

From Washington, D.C. Lives in Richmond, Virginia.
Son of Charlie Waller (Country Gentlemen). When Randy was four years old, his father made a promise to give him his famed guitar, a promise which was kept on Christmas Day, 2002.
2003, joined his dad in the Country Gentlemen and has continued leading his own version of the band after Charlie’s death in 2004.
2004, released first solo project Randy Waller (no label).
2006, released Keeper of the Flame album (no label) by Randy Waller and the Country Gentlemen.
2011, released One Mile East of Hazel Green album (no label) by Randy Waller and the Country Gentlemen.

Hancock, Arthur

Posted on November 30, 2013September 29, 2018 by WR

ARTHUR HANCOCK

From Paris, Kentucky.
Breeds and raises race horses in Kentucky. His “Stone Farm” produced Sunday Silence, winner of the 1989 Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Breeder’s Cup Races.
Has played bluegrass since age 11.
A prolific songwriter, his songs have been recorded by such artists as Ray Price and Grandpa Jones.
A friend of Peter Rowan since 1965, who produced his solo album of original songs in 2001.
2014, his son formed a Kentucky bluegrass band called The Wooks.

Raybon, Marty

Posted on December 23, 2013October 3, 2020 by WR

MARTY RAYBON (AND FULL CIRCLE)

From Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Best known as the lead singer for the successful country band Shenandoah (1984-1997).
1991, won ACM Vocal Group of the Year Award and had numerous CMA and Grammy nominations.
1975, began his musical career in Florida performing in a family band called American Bluegrass Express with his brother Tim, winning the Florida State Bluegrass Championship five years in a row. Their father Buck played fiddle.
1984, moved to Nashville to pursue career in country music. Formed Shenandoah the next year in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Had eleven #1 hits, including “Ghost in this House,” “Next to Me, Next to You,” “I Want to Loved Like That,”
1996, won Grammy for his duet with Alison Krauss “Somewhere in the Vicinity of My Heart.”
1997, left Shenandoah to record with his brother Tim as the Raybon Brothers. They had a hit with “Butterfly Kisses.”
1998, began a solo career as a gospel singer and evangelist.
1998, sang on Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Country album.
2002, returned to his bluegrass roots with album Full Circle and formed a bluegrass band with the same name.
2013, won IBMA award for Gospel Recording of the Year (for “Beulah Land”).
2014, began performing again with Shenandoah.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Full Circle (Doobie Shea, 2003) Marty’s return to bluegrass music!
‘The Gospel in Black and White (Synchoro, 2004)
This That & the Other (Synchoro, 2009)
Southern Roots & Branches: Yesterday & Today (Rural Rhythm, 2012) Features the best from his debut “Full Circle” album (“Next to You, Next to Me,” “Ghost in This House,” etc.) plus several new tracks.
Hand to the Plow (Rural Rhythm, 2012) An all-gospel album. Includes “Beulah Land” (IBMA Award-winner).
The Back Forty (Rural Rhythm, 2013)

Martin, Jimmy

Posted on December 17, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

JIMMY MARTIN (AND THE SUNNY MOUNTAIN BOYS)

From Sneedville, Tennessee.
Nicknames: “Mr. Good ‘n Country” and “The King of Bluegrass Music.”
1949, auditioned for Bill Monroe at the Grand Ole Opry and was hired on the spot. Worked with Monroe until 1951. He sang lead on Monroe’s first recording of “Uncle Pen.”
1954, formed Jimmy Martin and the Osborne Brothers (with Bobby and Sonny).
1955, formed The Sunny Mountain Boys, named after one of Jimmy’s songs, “Sunny Side of the Mountain.”
1972, won a Grammy award for his work on the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” album.
Favorite sport: coon-hunting. Over the years, he has kept a large stable of coon-dogs, most of them named after country-music stars.
He often credited himself with inventing the G-run, a guitar lick which is used widely in bluegrass music.
1964, he received a Distinguished Citizenship Award from Nashville’s Mayor Beverly Briley after Jimmy risked his life to pull a mother and her three children to safety from a flaming automobile that was involved in an accident.
1995, he was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
1999, he was the subject of book by Tom Piazza titled True Adventures with the King of Bluegrass published by the Country Music Foundation.
2002, retired from full-time performing.
Died May 14, 2005.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Jimmy Martin and the Sunny Mountain Boys (4-CD boxed set, Bear Family)
20 Greatest Hits (Gusto)
Greatest Hits (King)

Carter Family, The

Posted on November 10, 2013March 6, 2020 by WR

THE CARTER FAMILY

From Bristol, Tennessee.
Original group: A.P. (Alvin Pleasant), Sara and Maybelle Carter.
Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1970. From the inscription: “A.P. Carter, his wife, Sara, and his sister-in-law Maybelle, played in one of the first commercial country recording sessions at Bristol, Tennesee … Their songs became country standards, and some of A.P.’s original compositions are among the all-time greats … the epitome of country greatness and originators of a much copied style.”
Original group recorded and performed from 1927 to 1942, when A.P. and Sara divorced.
Wrote and recorded hundreds of country and bluegrass standards: Jimmy Brown the Newsboy, The Wildwood Flower, Keep on the Sunnyside, etc.
After 1942, Maybelle continued to perform as the Carter Family with daughters Helen, June and Anita. In 1950, the group became regulars on the Grand Ole Opry.
June Carter had several hit records as a solo artist. Married Johnny Cash.
Performed as regulars on the Johnny Cash show until Mother Maybelle’s death in 1978.
Maybelle (Mother Maybelle) was famous for her autoharp playing, but rose to fame as a guitarist. She was among the first to play with finger-picks and to play guitar solos. Her style is still copied by many guitarists today.
2001, The Carter Family was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Honor by Bill Clifton.

RECOMMENDED:

The Carter Family: 1927-1934 (This box set contains the defining Carter Family recordings.)

Faris Family, The

Posted on November 23, 2013May 6, 2024 by WR

THE FARIS FAMILY

From Ozawkie, Kansas.
Band included Bob and Michelle Faris (banjo, fiddle and bass) and their four sons, James (fiddle and bass), Richard (guitar), Eddie (banjo and fiddle), and John (mandolin).
Bob Faris (dad) won the Iowa State Fiddle Championship at age 19. Played in numerous country/bluegrass bands including the Reba McIntyre Band. Retired from full time music career in 1991 to become a full-time dad.
They have won numerous SPBGMA awards including “Entertaining Band of the Year.”
Performed regularly at their own “Bluegrass Barn Theater” in Ozawkie, Kansas.
2008, Eddie Faris joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, replacing Darrin Vincent on arch-top guitar. In 2018, he joined the Larry Stephenson Band, playing bass.
2009, Rick Faris joined Special Consensus, replacing Ashby Frank on mandolin.
2009, the Faris Family officially disbanded (as a performing act).

Ohmsen, Tom

Posted on December 21, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

TOM OHMSEN

From Salem, Virginia.
A recording engineer/producer by occupation and owner of Flat Five Studios. He is also an accomplished mandolin player.
Has worked on albums by the Dave Matthews Band, Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley.
Wrote a book titled Music Theory for Modern Mandolin.
Plays “jazz-swing-latin-bluegrass-blues” music.
2001, released Acoustinova album (Flat Five), an album of mandolin solos.

Schlegel, Becky

Posted on December 30, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

BECKY SCHLEGEL

From St. Paul, Minnesota.
Began performing in high school in central South Dakota, performing at VFW and American Legion Halls. She also spent four summers as part of the “Mountain Music Show” in the Black Hills.
1997, formed a bluegrass band called True Blue.
1998, released This Lonesome Song album (no label).
2001-2004, won Bluegrass/Old Time Artist of the Year at the Minnesota Music Awards (4 years in a row).
2002, released first solo album Red Leaf (Lilly Ray).
2005, released Drifter Like Me album (Lilly Ray).
2006, appeared in the movie “A Prairie Home Companion” with Garrison Keillor. She has been a frequent performer on the radio program.
2006, formed the Becky Schlegel Band.
2007, released For All the World to See album (Lilly Ray).
2007, released Heartaches album (Lilly Ray).
2008, released Country Ballads album (Lilly Ray).
2010, released Dandelion album (Lilly Ray).
2012, released Opry Lullaby album (no label).

Taylor, Tut

Posted on November 11, 2015 by WR

TUT TAYLOR

Born in Possum Trot, Georgia. Lived in Milledgeville, Georgia. Moved to Nashville in 1970.
Real name: Robert Arthur Taylor. He was nicknamed “Tut” by his parents when he was a child.
He was a studio musician, sideman, graphic artist and luthier, an acoustic music icon around Nashville for more than four decades.
He was best known as a Dobro™ player, and was often called the “flat-picking Dobro man” because he used a flat pick rather than finger picks on the instrument.
1962, recorded an album called “12 String Dobro” with Glen Campbell and the Folkswingers.
1963, appeared on the Kentucky Colonels “Appalachian Swing” album featuring Clarence White.
1964, released “Dobro County” album.
After moving to Nashville in 1970, he co-founded GTR Guitars with George Gruhn and Randy Wood (which later became Gruhn Guitars). He also owned Grammar Guitars and co-founded Rich and Taylor Banjo company.
He was also a sign painter and luthier. He did some custom work for Gibson in Nashville.
1971, appeared on John Hartford’s landmark “Aereoplane” album.
1972, released Friar Tut album (recently reissued by Rounder Records).
1975, released Dobrolic Plectral Society album (Tacoma Records).
1995, won a Grammy award for his part on the Jerry Douglas album The Great Dobro Sessions (Sugar Hill Records).
1998, released Flash Flood album (Tutlee Records).
2007, released Shacktown Road album with Norman and Nancy Blake (no label)
2010, Jerry Douglas released Southern Filibuster: a Tribute to Tut Taylor (E1 Entertainment).
2015, died at the age of 91.

Scott, Barry

Posted on December 30, 2013December 28, 2015 by WR

BARRY SCOTT

From Ellijay, Georgia.
Began singing and playing bass with his family band (The Scott Family Band) at age 7. At age 11, he learned to play piano.
1984 (age 17), formed a southern Gospel quartet called The Harmony Brothers.
1986, joined The Perry’s, another southern Gospel group.
1988, worked with the Gold City Quartet and the Dixie Melody Boys.
1990, formed a bluegrass gospel group called Silver Creek with Barry Abernathy.
1993, rejoined The Perry’s.
1996, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, playing guitar and singing lead. Worked with Doyle for nine years.
2005, left Doyle Lawson to pursue a solo career. Formed his own band, Second Wind.
2009, released first album In God’s Time (Rebel).
2010, teamed up with former Quicksilver bandmate Darren Beachley to form the Beachley and Scott Band.
2011, left the Beachley and Scott Band to return to gospel music.

Laur, Katie

Posted on December 6, 2013August 15, 2024 by WR

KATIE LAUR

Native of Paris, Tennessee. Lived in Cincinnatti, Ohio.
1975, formed The Katie Laur Band. She was one of the first female lead singers to front her own bluegrass band.
1975, released “Good Time Girl” album (Vetco).
1977, released “Cookin’ with Katie” album (Vetco).
She appeared several times on Garrison Keillor’s “Prairie Home Companion” radio program.
She hosted a weekly Cincinnatti radio show called “Music from the Hills of Home.”
Real name: Katie Haley. As a child, she performed with her sister and three cousins in a singing group called The Haley Sisters.
2008, she was presented with the Ohio Heritage Fellowship award for her influence on musicians in the Ohio region.
Died on August 3, 2024.

Reams, James

Posted on December 23, 2013October 17, 2022 by WR

JAMES REAMS (AND THE BARNSTORMERS)

From southeast Kentucky. Moved to Brooklyn, New York and also has a home in Phoenix, Arizona.
A guitarist and vocalist, he was dubbed the Father of Brooklyn Bluegrass.
1992-1998, performed and recorded with a group called The Mysterious Redbirds.
1992, released first solo album Kentucky Songbird (Leghorn)..
2001, released Barnstormin album (Copper Creek) with his band The Barnstormers.
2002, released an album with banjo player Walter Hensley as James Reams, Walter Hensley & The Barons of Bluegrass (Copper Creek).
2005, released Troubled Times album (no label).
2011, moved to Arizona and formed a west-coast version of the Barnstormers with Billy Parker (mandolin), Tyler James (banjo), Dan Meyer (bass) and Blaine Sprouse (fiddle). His east-coast version of the band includes Mark Farrell (mandolin/fiddle), Doug Nicolaisen (banjo) and Nick Sullivan (bass).
2012, released Blackest Crow album (no label).
2013, released One Foot in the Honky Tonk album (no label).
2016, released Rhyme & Season album (no label).
2020, a documentary film about James was released called Like A Flowing River: A Bluegrass Passage (Backyard Green Films).
2021, released Like a Flowing River Soundtrack Album (Mountain Redbird).
2022, he died at the age of 66 (cancer).

Jenkins, Snuffy

Posted on December 1, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

DEWITT “SNUFFY” JENKINS

Born 1908 in Harris, North Carolina.
He is credited as being the first country musician to play banjo using the three-finger style which was later refined and popularized by Earl Scruggs.
A humble man, he never wanted credit for inventing the style. Said he didn’t know where it came from—but admits he was probably the first to play banjo that way on the radio.
First band to have a three-finger style banjo: The Jenkins String Band.
1936, worked with J.E. Mainer’s Mountaineers.
1939, teamed up with fiddler Homer “Pappy” Sherrill and formed the WIS Hillbillies.
1948, formed The Hired Hands, a band name that he kept going until his death in 1990.
1960, he semi-retired from music and worked as a car salesman.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Pioneer Of The Bluegrass Banjo (Arhoolie)
Snuffy’s Bluegrass (Classic)

Nash Street

Posted on December 20, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

NASH STREET (HANALENA)

From Starkville, Mississippi.
Formed in 1996 as a kid band called The Goat Ropers. The group featured the vocals of sisters Hannah and Caroline Melby.
2001, changed their name to Nash Street, the name of the street they grew up on.
Members: Daniel Hare (bass), Hannah Melby (fiddle), Caroline Melby (mandolin), Clay Lezon (guitar), and Jason Graham (guitar).
2007, recorded first album Carry on (no label), dedicated to the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
2008, won the Colgate Country Showdown, hosted by Leann Rhimes at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.
2010, the group moved to Nashville and released Between Hope and Heartache album (no label).
2013, the name of the band was changed to Hanalena, which is the name of the sisters’ flower business in Starkville. They released HanaLena, a 5-song album (no label).

Faris, Rick

Posted on June 7, 2019May 6, 2024 by WR

RICK FARIS

Grew up in Arkansas (the Ozarks) and Kansas.
Began playing music professionally at age 7 with his family band The Faris Family (1998). His father (Bob Faris) played fiddle in Reba McIntyre’s band.
He is best known as a guitarist but he plays all the bluegrass instruments at a professional level.
2009-2021, joined Special Consensus playing mandolin (which he had to learn). Six years later he took over the guitar position.
He is also a luthier who builds high quality guitars. His business is called the Faris Guitar Company.
2019, released first solo album Breaking In Lonesome (Dark Shadow).
2021, began his solo career, formed the Rick Faris Band and released The Next Mountain album (Dark Shadow).
2023, released Uncommon Sky album (Dark Shadow).
2023, moved to Owensboro, Kentucky (home of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum) and became Artist in Residence with the Kentucky Guitar Center.
2024, he was inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame.

Martin, Mac

Posted on December 17, 2013March 3, 2022 by WR

MAC MARTIN (AND THE DIXIE TRAVELERS)

From Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
His first band: the Pike County Boys (1948). He played mandolin.
His real name: William (Bill) Colleran. The Pike County Boys had three Bills in it, so he adopted the stage name of Mac Martin and the name stuck with him throughout his career.
Day job: he was an accountant.
1954, formed his own band The Dixie Travelers with Mike Carson (fiddle) and Billy Bryant (banjo). Bryant died in 1994. They were regulars at a Pittsburgh club called Walsh’s Lounge (19 years).
1972, retired from the band. Mandolinist (and bluegrass historian) Bob Artis led the Dixie Travelers until Martin returned in 1977.
1998, released Buzz Matheson & Mac Martin: Echoes of the Past album (White Oak).
2001, released A Dark Starless Night album, a collection of vintage recordings (White Oak).
2004, released Travelin’ On album (Copper Creek).
2005, released Venango album (Copper Creek).
2015, released Goin’ Down the Country album (Rural Rhythm).
2015, retired from performing at age 90. Played last concert with his Dixie Travelers on September 17, designated by the mayor of the city as “Mac Martin Day” in Pittsburgh.
2022, died at the age of 96.

Benedict, David

Posted on December 13, 2018June 7, 2020 by WR

DAVID BENEDICT

From Cambridge, Massachusetts (originally from Clemson, South Carolina).
2013, graduated from Bryan College (Chattanooga, TN) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mandolin Music Performance.
2014, released first album “Into the True Country” (no label), produced by Matt Flinner.
2014-2017, played mandolin with Missy Raines and the New Hip.
2017, moved to Boston and joined Mile Twelve.
2018, released solo project “The Golden Angle” (no label), produced by Matt Flinner.
2018, won IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2019, married Tabitha Agnew, banjo player from England who plays with Midnight Skyracer and Cup O’Joe.
Also teaches mandolin and has a column “Mandolin Mondays” on the website Mandolin Cafe.

Walsh, Joe K.

Posted on October 15, 2016 by WR

JOE K. WALSH

From Portland, Maine.
A mandolinist who has worked with The Gibson Brothers, Joy Kills Sorrow, Mr. Sun, Jonathan Edwards, Darol Anger, Scott Nygaard and others.
He is a mandolin instructor at the Berklee School of Music in Boston.
2016, released first solo project “Borderland” (no label).

Perry, Billy

Posted on October 15, 2018 by WR

BILLY PERRY

From Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
A banjo player who is a member of an Oklahoma band called Mountain Smoke. Vince Gill was also in this band in the early 1970’s.
1976, released a solo album “Billy Perry’s Bluegrass Jam” (King Bluegrass).
1977, released “More Bluegrass Jam” album (King Bluegrass).
Day job: he is a partner in his father’s home design business in Oklahoma City.

Warburton, Marty

Posted on January 6, 2014September 14, 2024 by WR

MARTY WARBURTON (AND HOME GIRLS)

From Las Vegas, Nevada.
Plays banjo and guitar. Was a member of Dry & Dusty (with Butch Baldassari) and Sagegrass.
Former president of the Southern Nevada Bluegrass Music Society; also hosted a radio program on KNPR, Las Vegas.
1996, the Marty Warburton Band won the Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown in Louisville.
1996, recorded first album Headin’ Home (Pinecastle).
2016, formed a band called Home Girls featuring his daughters.
He is well-known as one of the top bluegrass festival emcees in the Southwest.

Rector, Red

Posted on December 23, 2013 by WR

RED RECTOR

Originally from Marshall, North Carolina.
Real name: William Eugene Rector.
One of first mandolin players in bluegrass to have a style distinguishable from Bill Monroe’s.
Began his career in the early 40’s playing mandolin with the Morris Brothers, Johnnie and Jack, and Charlie Monroe.
Performed and recorded for many years in a duo with his cousin Fred E. Smith (“Red and Fred”).
1950’s, joined Carl Story’s Rambling Mountaineers and sang lead when Carl recorded his best-known Mercury and Columbia albums.
Also worked and recorded with Reno and Smiley, Ramona and Grandpa Jones, Jethro Burns, Mother Maybelle and the Carter Family, Norman Blake, Bill Clifton, John Hartford, many others.
1990, died at the age of 60.

Carter, Tim (The Carter Brothers)

Posted on November 10, 2013July 8, 2024 by WR

TIM CARTER (THE CARTER BROTHERS)

From North Carolina; lives in Nashville.
Plays banjo, mandolin and guitar.
1980, formed The Carter Brothers with his brother Danny, blending electric/acoustic, folk, rock, bluegrass and blues.
1992, the Carter Brothers signed with Capitol Records.
The Carter Brothers are related to Hall of Fame members the Carter Family. The connection: their great-grandfather William Carter and A.P Carter are first cousins. They were also very close friends.
1997-2004, Tim toured with the Alison Brown Quartet as her sound engineer. Also toured with Newgrange and Tim O’Brien.
Tim has his own recording studio in Nashville called Treehouse. Has worked with such bluegrass artists as Alison Brown, Tim O’Brien, Darol Anger, Mike Marshall, Vassar Clements and many others.
2004-2006, the Carter Brothers toured with Vassar Clements until his passing.
2007, Tim released his first solo project “Bang Bang” featuring original banjo tunes.
2016, joined Hayseed Dixie.
2017, Danny Carter was hospitalized following multiple strokes and other health issues.
2021, Tim formed a new band called Damn the Banjos.
2024, Danny Carter died at the age of 71.

Laurel Canyon Ramblers, The

Posted on December 6, 2013December 30, 2022 by WR

THE LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS

From Los Angeles, California.
Formed in 1994 by Herb Pedersen and Bill Bryson (who worked together in the Desert Rose Band). Released first album Rambler’s Blues on Sugar Hill Records.
Other original members: Billy Ray Lathum (guitar), Kenny Blackwell (mandolin) and Byron Berline (fiddle). Lathum was replaced by Roger Reed. Berline by Dennis Fetchet, then Gabe Witcher. Bobby Hicks also played a few dates with this band.
Laurel Canyon is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, famous for being the home base for many LA-area folk and rock musicians such as Joni Mitchell, the Byrds, the Dillards, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, the Mamas and the Papas, and many others. Laurel Canyon Blvd. is a major thoroughfare in the San Fernando Valley.
Mandolinist Kenny Blackwell actually drives a Rambler (an early 60’s Ambassador station wagon).
1996, released Blue Rambler 2 album (Sugar Hill.)
1996, Roger Reed (guitar) cut a finger off his left hand with a power saw one month after he joined the band. He continued to perform with Bruce Johnson playing guitar while Reed sang his vocal parts. Eventually he was able to play guitar again.
1998, released Back On The Street Again album (Sugar Hill).
After Blackwell moved from the area, Pedersen formed a new bluegrass band with Bryson called Loafer’s Glory.”

Ward, Evan

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

EVAN WARD

From Fountain City, Indiana.
Began playing banjo at age 11.
2000, joined first band at age 12, an Ohio group called Simple Tymes.
2001, age 13, joined Gerald Evans and Paradise.
2003, recorded first album of banjo instrumentals. Also performed on the Grand Ole Opry.
2004, played dates in a band called “Higher Crossing” with Dennis Crouch, Ray Craft, Randy Kohrs and Aubrey Haynie.
1005, worked with Don Rigsby and Midnight Call.
2007, joined Audie Blaylock and Redline.
2009, left Blaylock’s band to focus on his education at Vanderbilt University.

Gangstagrass

Posted on February 5, 2024 by WR

GANGSTAGRASS

From Brooklyn, New York.
Formed in 2006 by record-producer and guitarist Rench (Oscar Owens) who combined bluegrass with hip-hop to record the theme song for the FX television network’s show “Justified.”
2014, released Rappalachia slbum (Rench).
2014, released Broken Hearts and Stolen Money album (Rench).
2015, released American Music album (Rench).
Since 2018, band members have been 2018 has been Rench (vocals, guitar, beats), Dolio the Sleuth (MC, vocals), R-SON the Voice of Reason (MC), Dan “Danjo” Whitener (vocals, banjo), and B.E. Farrow (vocals, fiddle).
Fans include Howie Mandell (“America’s Got Talent”) and the late author Elmore Leonard.
2019, they appeared at the Station Inn in Nashville, the first time a hip-hop group had ever appeared at the iconic bluegrass venue.
2019, released Pocket Full of Fire album (Rench).
2020, released No Time for Enemies album (Rench). This album went to #1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Chart.

Yates, Dave

Posted on May 27, 2014 by WR

DAVE YATES

From Johnson City, Tennessee.
A multi-instrumentalist who has performed on recordings by Merle Haggard, Tim Stafford, Rhonda Vincent, Adam Steffey, Barry Bales, John Gardner, Rob Ickes, Charlie Daniels, Trey Hensley, and Doc Watson.
1986, began teaching music lessons on all the bluegrass instruments.
1999, became an adjunct professor in the Appalachian Studies Department of East Tennessee State University.
2004, released solo project “The Working Man.”
2014, released solo project “Cardboard in My Shoes.”

Nashville Bluegrass Band

Posted on December 20, 2013June 29, 2024 by WR

THE NASHVILLE BLUEGRASS BAND

From Nashville, Tennessee.
1984, the band was formed by Alan O’Bryant (banjo) and Pat Enright (guitar). They put together the band as part of a traveling show called “Grand Old Country with Minnie Pearl.” Original members included Mark Hembree (bass) and Mike Compton (mandolin). Blaine Sprouse was added early on to play fiddle and was later replaced by Stuart Duncan.
O’Bryant, from Reidsville, North Carolina, previously performed with The Bluegrass Band, a group that included Butch Robins, Ed Dye and Blaine Sprouse. He began his musical career in 1974 with James Monroe. Also worked with the Front Porch String Band (an Alabama group) and did some studio work in Nashville.
Enright formerly performed with Tasty Licks (a New England Band) and Phantoms of the Opry (San Francisco).
1985, released their first album My Native Home (Rounder), produced by Bela Fleck. Blaine Sprouse played fiddle on this album.
1986, released Idle Time album (Rounder), also produced by Fleck. This is the first album featuring Stuart Duncan on fiddle.
1986, became the first bluegrass group to perform in Red China.
1987, released To Be His Child album (Rounder).
1988, Roland White (mandolin) and Gene Libbea (bass) joined the group, replacing Mike Compton and Mark Hembree, who were seriously injured that year when the group’s bus was involved in a traffic accident. White had previously performed with the Country Gazette, Lester Flatt’s Nashville Grass, Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys and the Kentucky Colonels
1988, released New Moon Rising album (Sugar Hill) with Peter Rowan.
1990, released The Boys Are Back In Town album (Sugar Hill).
1991, released Home Of The Blues album (Sugar Hill).
1991, did a tour in Brazil with country singer Don Williams.
1992, won an IBMA Award for Song of the Year (“Blue Train.”)
1993, won their 4th IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year (also won in 1990, 1991 and 1992.)
1993, won the IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.
1994, toured with Lyle Lovett.
1994, recorded with actress/singer Bernadette Peters.
1994, won Grammy Award for the album Waitin’ For The Hard Times To Go (Sugar Hill).
1995, performed at a private party for the rock band R.E.M.
1996, performed with Johnny Cash on the soundtrack to the movie “Dead Man Walking” starring Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn.
1996, performed at Wynona Judd’s wedding reception.
1996, won the Grammy Award for the album Unleashed (Sugar Hill).
1998, released American Beauty album (Sugar Hill).
2000, Pat Enright’s voice (and yodeling) was a member of the “Soggy Bottom Boys” in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou.”
2001, Roland White retired from the band and mandolinist Mike Compton returned.
2002, they were on the “Down from the Mountain” tour, featuring the music from the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”
2004, released Twenty Year Blues album (Sugar Hill).
2006, performed at the White House for a reception for Chinese President Hu Jintao.
2007, released Best Of The Sugar Hill Years (Sugar Hill).

Warner, Chris

Posted on January 6, 2014October 7, 2024 by WR

CHRIS WARNER

From Red Lion, Pennsylvania.
1966, played banjo with Del McCoury, who was a neighbor at the time.
1967-1969, joined Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys. He played on Jimmy’s 1978 album “Greatest Bluegrass Hits.”
1969, had his own regional band and filled in with Bob Paisley, The Seldom Scene, The Hot Mud Family, Bill Harrell, Jim and Jesse, others.
1974, opened “Warner String Works” repairing and building string instruments; played banjo with the Carroll County Ramblers.
1980, played mandolin with Tom Adams and the Double Eagle Band. A year later, played banjo while Tom played guitar.
1985-1989, returned to play with Jimmy Martin and the Sunny Mountain Boys.
1987, released “All Original” album (Webco).
1989, released “Chris Warner and Friends” album (Webco).
1989, closed Warner String Works and began filling in with bands like Chief Powhatan, Rhonda Vincent, Johnson Mountain Boys and Red Allen. Also began working for Campbell’s Music Service in York, PA as a luthier and in-house repairman.
2003, after a 4-year hiatus, returned to play with Audie Blaylock and Redline, also briefly with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
2004, released “Back Again” album (Webco).
2009, joined Wayne Taylor and Appaloosa.
2009, released solo project Goin’ to the Dance (Patuxent).
2020, retired from performing during the Covid shutdown.

Pert Near Sandstone

Posted on October 27, 2023October 31, 2023 by WR

PERT NEAR SANDSTONE

From Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota.
Formed in 2004 along the sandstone bluffs of St. Paul, Minnesota by Justin Bruhn (bass), Kevin Kniebel (banjo), J Lenz (guitar), and Nate Sipe (mandolin, steel guitar, fiddle). Also in the band: Chris Forsberg (fiddle), Matt Cartier (percussion). Ryan Young (of Trampled by Turtles) was an original member.
They play a blend of bluegrass and string band music influenced by metal, electronic, rock, reggae and more.
They have performed with Steve Martin, the Flaming Lips, Trampled By Turtles, the Del McCoury Band, the Yonder Mountain String Band, Sam Bush and others.
2023, released Waiting Days, their eighth studio album (no label).

Cavanaugh, Ryan

Posted on November 17, 2015January 18, 2021 by WR

RYAN CAVANAUGH

From North Carolina.
A child prodigy, he began playing the banjo at age 5 and performed as a child with Doc Watson, Doug Dillard, John McEuen and others.
Won banjo contests at Rockygrass, Merlefest, Renofest and other competitions.
Developed a technically advanced style of playing jazz and other genres on the banjo. Was awarded a teaching residency at the Berklee School of Music.
2006, began touring with jazz saxophonist Bill Evans.
2008, released “Songs from the New Frontier” album (no label).
2015, joined the Jeff Austin band.
2017, joined the Songs from the Road Band.
2019, left the Songs from the Road Band to return to performing solo and collaborating with other artists.

Warren, Johnny and Charlie Cushman

Posted on May 16, 2015December 13, 2022 by WR

JOHNNY WARREN AND CHARLIE CUSHMAN

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Warren (fiddle) is the son of former Foggy Mountain Boy Paul Warren. Cushman (banjo) is a celebrated banjo player who has worked primarily as a studio musician in Nashville. In 2013, both of them became members of the Earls of Leicester.
2010, released A Tribute to Fiddlin’ Paul Warren album (no label).
2011, released A Tribute to Fiddlin’ Paul Warren, Vol. 2 album (no label).
2015, released Purely Instrumental album (no label).
2016, Cushman won the IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.

Davis, Brad

Posted on November 19, 2013April 1, 2019 by WR

BRAD DAVIS

From Fort Worth, Texas.
Began playing classical guitar at age 5.
1978, he and his brother formed a bluegrass band called Ten Degrees.
1986, moved to Nashville and worked as a fiddle/guitar player at Opryland USA. Later that year, was offered a job working with The Forester Sisters.
1992, joined Marty Stuart’s band.
1994, toured with Sweethearts of the Rodeo. Also formed (with his brother Greg) a band called WhiteWater.
1995, re-joined Marty Stuart’s band “The Rock and Roll Cowboys.”
Has also recorded with Willie Nelson, Pam Tillis, Dwight Yokem, Steve Earl, Travis Tritt, Emmy Lou Harris, Sheryl Crow, Warren Zevon, Joe Diffee, Mark Chestnut, Billy Bob Thornton, and many others.
2001, joined the Earl Scruggs Family and Friends tour.
2002, toured with Billy Bob Thornton.
2003, released I’m Not Gonna Let My Blues Get Me Down album (FGM).
2003, released This World Ain’t No Child album (FGM Records) and joined the Sam Bush Band.
2007, joined the Boxmasters, a rockabilly band led by Billy Bob Thornton.
2013, released A Bluegrass Tribute to George Jones album (Bluegrass Valley Records.) He has also done several Bluegrass Tribute albums for CMH Records (The Black Keys, Mumford and Sons, etc.)

Garcia, Jerry

Posted on November 27, 2013March 5, 2024 by WR

JERRY GARCIA

Founder and leader of the legendary rock group The Grateful Dead.
1962, played banjo with two bands—the Wild Wood Boys and Sleepy Hollow Hog Stompers.
1963, formed The Black Mountain Boys with David Nelson and Sandy Rothman.
1973, Garcia (banjo) recorded with David Grisman (mandolin), Peter Rowan (guitar), John Kahn (bass) and Vassar Clements (fiddle) in a band called “Old and In the Way.” This album became one of the best-selling bluegrass albums of all time.
1987, reunited with friends David Nelson (of New Riders of the Purple Sage) and Sandy Rothman (a former Blue Grass Boy) to record “Almost Acoustic” under the name The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band.
1991, Jerry and mandolinist David Grisman recorded an album of acoustic duets: Jerry Garcia & David Grisman (Acoustic Disk).
1993, interviewed in film “Bill Monroe: The Father of Bluegrass Music” and asked “Is it true that you once auditioned to be one of Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys?” Jerry’s response: “Yeah. I wanted to be one in the worst way. I still want to be.”
The Grateful Dead recorded several bluegrass standards: “Dark Hollow”, “Deep Elem Blues”, “Sittin on Top of the World”, “A Voice from on High”, “Little Sadie”, “Cold Jordan” and others.
Died in August, 1995 at the age of 53.
2000, an acoustic album was released featuring Garcia with David Grisman and Tony Rice called The Pizza Tapes (Acoustic Disk).
2001, a movie about Jerry Garcia and David Grisman was released called “Grateful Dawg.”
2024, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky opened a temporary exhibit (three years) called “Jerry Garcia: A Bluegrass Journey.”

Martin, Steve

Posted on December 17, 2013April 1, 2024 by WR

STEVE MARTIN

From Los Angeles, California. Born in Waco, Texas; grew up in Garden Grove, California.
He is an Emmy and Grammy-award winning comedian, writer, musician and actor, appearing in dozens of films such as “The Jerk,” “Parenthood,” “Roxanne,” “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” “Father of the Bride,” and “The Pink Panther.”
Began playing banjo in the 1960’s, influenced by Earl Scruggs, Doug Dillard and John McEuen. He frequently used his banjo in comedy routines developed at Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm and incorporated the banjo into his stand-up routines.
1981, released The Steve Martin Brothers album (Warner Brothers) which featured both comedy and banjo tunes.
2001, won a Grammy for his appearance on the Earl Scruggs And Friends recording of “Foggy Mountain Breakdown.”
2007, appeared on the IBMA and Grammy award-winning Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular album by Tony Trischka and Friends (Rounder).
2009, released his first all-banjo album The Crow: New Songs for the Five String Banjo (Rounder).
2009, began playing live dates with the Steep Canyon Rangers. Also made his first appearance as a musician on the Grand Ole Opry (With Vince Gill, May 30, 2009).
2010, won the Grammy Award for Bluegrass Album of the Year.
2011, released Rare Bird Alert album with the Steep Canyon Rangers.
2011, performed with the Steep Canyon Rangers on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building for the PBS TV 4th of July Celebration.
2011, won the IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.
2013, released Love Has Come For You, his first album with singer/songwriter Edie Brickell, who formerly fronted the New Bohemians (1985-1990) best known for their hit “What I Am.” She also has a successful solo career (appeared and sang in the movie “Born on the Fourth of July”) and fronts another band called The Gaddabouts. She is married to singer/songwriter Paul Simon.
2014, released Steve Martin And The Steep Canyon Rangers Featuring Edie Brickell Live album (Rounder).
2015, received IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award for his contributions to bluegrass music.
2015, was inducted into the National Banjo Hall of Fame.
2015, released So Familiar, an album of duets with Edie Brickell (Rounder).

Davis, Chris

Posted on May 16, 2022June 22, 2024 by WR

CHRIS DAVIS

From Fairborn, Ohio. Lives in Russell, Kentucky.
Learned to play and sing bluegrass in his family band featuring his father, his grandfather and uncles “The Davis Brothers.”
2011, joined Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice, playing mandolin.
2013, joined Wildfire, playing mandolin and singing tenor.
2014, worked with Diamond Rio, filling in for Gene Johnson during his absence from open heart surgery.
2015, worked with Larry Sparks, Larry Cordle and Marty Raybon.
2019, joined the Grascals, playing guitar, replacing Terry Eldredge.
His son Gibson plays banjo and has filled in for Grascals banjo player Kristin Scott Benson.
2022, signed a record contract with RBR Entertainment and released his first single.
2022, left the Grascals to join Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers, playing mandolin.

Lawless, John

Posted on December 6, 2013December 8, 2015 by WR

JOHN LAWLESS

From Roanoke, Virginia.
Banjo player and founder (in 1994) of AcuTab Publishing Company, publisher of instrumental instruction books and recordings by well-known bluegrass artists.
1978-1991, played banjo with Nothin’ Doin Band (Norfolk, VA)
1999, joined Acoustic Endeavors.
2001, won IBMA award for Instrumental Album of the Year for “Knee Deep in Bluegrass: The AcuTab Sessions” (produced by Lawless and featuring Lawless and other performers)
2004, released solo project of banjo instrumentals called Five & Dime (no label). .
He is a well known bluegrass journalist, creator of the website “The Bluegrass Blog” which morphed into “Bluegrass Today.”

Farm Hands, The

Posted on November 1, 2013June 30, 2024 by WR

THE FARM HANDS (BLUEGRASS QUARTET)

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2011 by Daryl Mosely (bass), Tim Graves (Dobro™), Bennie Boling (banjo) and Kevin Williamson (guitar).
The band name came from an internet TV show called “Farm County Jubilee.” A segment of the show featured Mosley and Graves performing with the Farm Hands Quartet.
All four founding members of the band had previous experience with such groups as New Tradition, The Tim Graves Band, the Osborne Brothers, Wilma Lee Cooper and the Clinch Mountain Clan and others. They are all prolific songwriters as well.
2012, released “Songs from Mama’s Hymnbook” album (no label).
2013, released “In a Country Town” album (no label).
2014, Jesse Turner (guitarist from Alabama) replaced Kevin Williamson in the band. Williamson left to work with his family band. Later the same year, guitarist Keith Tew replaced Turner.
2015, banjo player Benny Boling was replaced by Don Hill.
2015, released Better Than I Deserve album (Pinecastle).
2016, released Diggin’ in the Dirt album (Pinecastle).
2017, they were awarded a proclamation by the Tennessee State Senate honoring them as musical ambassadors for the state of Tennessee (April 20).
2017, released Colors album (Pinecastle).
2018, Benny Boling returned to the band, this time playing bass.
2019, Mosely left the band to pursue a solo career. Boling, Hill and Tew also left to work with Mosely in the Daryl Mosely Band.
2020 band members: Tim Graves (Dobro™), David Mansfield (guitar), Kelsey Crews (banj0), Bryan Graves (bass) and Kimberly Bibb (fiddle). Graves is the only original member of the group.
2021, released 4.0 album (Pinecastle) with the new lineup.
2021, band lineup changed again, with original member Graves (Dobro™), Don Wayne Reno (banjo) and Jimmy Haynes (guitar). They began branding themselves as Tim Graves & the Farm Hands.
2022, Terry Eldridge (formerly with the Grascals) joined, playing bass.

Taylor, Wayne (Blue Highway)

Posted on January 1, 2014August 20, 2024 by WR

WAYNE TAYLOR (SEE ALSO BLUE HIGHWAY)

From Richmond, Virginia. Grew up in Ohio.
Late 80’s, early 90’s, worked with several East Tennessee bands: The Richlands Bluegrass Boys, The Bluegrass Kinsmen, The Tim Laughlin Band.
1994, formed Blue Highway with Tim Stafford. He plays bass and sings lead. Has written many of the band’s signature songs.
Has had a history of health problems: spent several years on crutches as a teenager. Heart attack in 2000. Colon cancer in 2002.
2012, released solo project It’s About Time (no label).
2016, was inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame.
2017, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Crab Orchard Museum at the Tazewell County Fiddlers Convention in SW Virginia.

Cedar Hill (Missouri)

Posted on November 10, 2013February 26, 2021 by WR

CEDAR HILL

From Hillboro, Missouri (in the Missouri Ozarks).
Formed in 1967 by Frank Ray and his uncle Richard Orchard. The original name of the band was Rich Orchard, Frank Ray, and The Ramblin’ Blue Grass Boys. The name was changed to Cedar Hill Grass in 1972, and later shortened to just Cedar Hill.
Winner of several SPBGMA awards and in 2000, won first place at the Gibson National Bluegrass Band Showcase.
2004 lineup: Frank Ray (mandolin), Mel Besher (guitar), Kenny Cantrell (banjo), Lisa Ray (fiddle) and Ali Keisler (bass).
2005, released Stories album (Hay Holler).
2011, released “I’ve Got a Thing About Doors” album (Blue Circle)
2008, released Looking Back album (Hay Holler).
2013 lineup: Ray (mandolin), Jim Bunch (banjo), Pete Brown (fiddle), Patti LeFleur (bass), Brit McGarity (guitar).
2015, released “Miss Dixie, Tom T. and Me” (Blue Circle), a collection of songs written by Tom T. and Dixie Hall especially for Cedar Hill. For two years following the deaths of Frank Ray’s son Scott and his father Dallas, Ray was unable to write new songs for his band. So the Hall’s responded by offering Ray ten new songs.
2008, Ray was inducted into the National Traditional Country Music Association Hall of Fame and received the Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018
2019, Ray was inducted into SPBGMA’s Hall of Greats.
2019, released Grandpa Built a Church House album (Nickeltown).
2020, signed with Mountain Fever Records.

Scott, Darrell

Posted on December 30, 2013February 9, 2020 by WR

DARRELL SCOTT

Born in London, Kentucky. Grew up in the Chicago area. Lives in Nashville.
A successful songwriter: “Long Time Gone” and “Heartbreak Town” (Dixie Chicks); “Great Day to Be Alive” (Travis Tritt); “You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive” (Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley); “Born to Fly” (Sara Evans); “When No One’s Around” (Garth Brooks).
2o12, released Live: We’re Usually A Lot Better Than This (Full Skies), an album of duets with Tim O’Brien.
2013, released Memories & Moments, a second album of duets with Tim O’Brien (Full Skies).

Martin, Tim

Posted on December 17, 2013February 12, 2016 by WR

TIM MARTIN

From Collinsville, Virginia. Was born in Roanoke.
1968, (at age 10), joined Dennis Hall and the Hilltoppers, playing banjo.
1971 (at age 13), joined Jim Eanes and the Shenandoah Valley Boys, his first professional music job.
1973 (at age 15) took up the fiddle.
Has played fiddle with numerous bands: Lloyd Burge and the Henry County Partners, Garland Lambert and the Stoney Creek Boys, Junior Cassady and the Sundowners, Rich N Tradition, the Southern Gentlemen, and others.
2010, released solo album Bluegrass Fiddle (Patuxent).

Fassaert, Tammy

Posted on November 23, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

TAMMY FASSAERT

From Vancouver, B.C., Canada.
A singer/songwriter who plays guitar and bass.
1988-1990, worked with Laurie Lewis and Grant Street.
1989, formed “Tammy and the Americans” with Scott Nygaard, Sally Van Meter and John Reischman.
1990, joined the Good Old Persons
1994, released first album “Just Passin’ Through.”
1995, formed The Sally Van Meter/Tammy Fassaert Band.
1996, toured as a duo with Dobro™ player Doug Cox.
1998, began performing solo.
2000, released “Corner of My Eye” album.
2005, formed the Shearwater Bluegrass Band with Dave Clarke (guitar) and James Whittall (mandolin).

Scott, Mike

Posted on December 30, 2013April 22, 2020 by WR

MIKE SCOTT

From Wautaga, Tennessee. Lives in Gallatin, Tennessee.
1972-1973, formed his first band at the age of 10, the Rocky Mountain Boys.
1974-1977, played with The Tennessee Bluegrass Four.
1978-1979, played with The Cumberland Mountain Boys.
1980-1982, played with Carl Story and the Rambling Mountaineers.
1982-1986, played with Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys.
1983, released first album “Classics for Banjo” (CMS).
1986, formed Mike Scott and The All American Band.
1987-1991, performed part-time with Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass.
1995, married Brenda Marshall (formerly of the Marshall Family, a gospel group).
2002, joined Ronnie Reno and the Reno Tradition (as well as performing with Jesse McReynolds, Danny Davis and his own band.)
2005, recorded several instrumental albums (“Star Spangled Bluegrass,” “Mountain Valley Bluegrass,” and “Applachian Sunday Bluegrass”) for Homestead Music, a Nashville label specializing in the gift shop market.
He is also an expert woodworker who restores vintage homes.
Nickname given to him by Bill Monroe: “Mike the Smilin’ Scott.”
He performs with his own band Mike Scott and the Nashville Band.
2012, released Blue Moon of Kentucky: An Instrumental Tribute to Bill Monroe (Rural Rhythm)
2012, released gospel album Take Me Lord & Use Me (Rural Rhythm).
2013, released Home Sweet Home, an album of civil war era instrumentals (Rural Rhythm).
2015, released Foggy Mountain Breakdown album (Green Hill Productions).

Kaufman, Steve

Posted on December 2, 2013January 21, 2016 by WR

STEVE KAUFMAN

From New York City. Lives in Maryville, Tennessee.
Three-time winner of National Flatpick Guitar Championship in Winfield, Kansas (1978, 1984, 1986).
Writes guitar instruction books for Mel Bay Publications and instruction videos for Homespun Tapes. He is known as the “World’s Guitar Instuctor.”
Also conducts guitar workshops and hosts “Acoustic Music Kamps” featuring instruction and mentoring from top musicians. There are “Kamps” for just about every acoustic instrument in bluegrass and folk music.
Started his own record label, Sleeping Bear Records.
Owns and operates the Palace Theatre in Maryville, an acoustic music venue.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

“Breaking Out” (1990, Sleeping Bear)
“Arkansas Traveler” (1994, Sleeping Bear)
“Bullet Train” (1997, Sleeping Bear)
“Circles” (2001, Sleeping Bear)
“Stylin” (2004, Sleeping Bear)
Mystique (2007, Sleeping Bear)
“Acoustic Stomp” (2009, Sleeping Bear)

Neal, Tom

Posted on December 20, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

TOM NEAL

From Hampstead, Maryland.
A banjo player who has worked with Del McCoury, Bill Harrell, Cliff Waldron, Gary Ferguson, Leon Morris, and The Carroll County Ramblers to mention a few.
Since the early nineties, he has performed with Bluestone Bluegrass, a Maryland-Pennsylvania regional band.
2013, released solo project Banjoland (Patuxent).

Fast Track

Posted on January 13, 2020June 13, 2024 by WR

FAST TRACK

From Nashville.
Formed in 2019 upon the retirement of David Parmley. His band Cardinal Tradition continued on without him, taking the new name Fast Track and adding Duane Sparks singing lead and playing guitar.
Band members: Duane Sparks (guitar), Dale Perry (banjo), Jesse Brock (mandolin), Ron Spears (bass) and Steve Day (fiddle).
Perry is a former member of the Bluegrass Cardinals, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, the Lonesome River Band, Continental Divide and other bands. He also is owner of Lakeside Recording Studio.
Brock is a former member of the Lynn Morris Band, Dale Ann Bradley, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, Audie Blaylock & Redline, and The Gibson Brothers. He is a two-time winner of the IBMA’s Mandolin Player of the Year award.
Spears is a former member of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Special Consensus, The James King Band, Continental Divide and his own band Within Tradition. He is also a professional ventriloquist and yo-yo expert.
Day is a former member of Continental Divide, Ronnie Reno, Gary Brewer and has worked the Grand Ole Opry on numerous occasions with other country and bluegrass artists.
Sparks is a former member of Gerald Evans & Paradise, Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers, the All-American Bluegrass Band and other groups.
2020, signed with Englehart Music Group for their first album.
2021, Brock departed and Shayne Bartley (mandolin) replaced him.
2023, Spears died after a long illness and was replaced by bassist Zach Collier.
2024, Randy Barnes (bass) joined the band, replacing Zach Collier.

Scottsville Squirrel Barkers, The

Posted on December 30, 2013January 20, 2021 by WR

THE SCOTTSVILLE SQUIRREL BARKERS

From San Diego, California.
Included Chris Hillman (who was still in high school), Larry Murray, Kenny Wertz, Ed Douglas and Gary Carr.
1963, recorded a now-legendary album called Blue Grass Favorites (Crown).
Kenny Wertz (banjo) later played with the Country Gazette and the Flying Burrito Brothers. He still lives in San Diego and plays with a local band.
Wertz was replaced in the Squirrel Barkers by Bernie Leadon (later a member of the Eagles.)
Chris Hillman (mandolin) left this group to play with The Golden State Boys (AKA The Hillmen) and was a founding member of The Byrds and the Desert Rose Band. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Byrds.
Larry Murray (Dobro™) later formed the folk-rock group Hearts and Flowers.
Ed Douglas (bass) later managed the rock group The Stone Ponies (with Linda Ronstadt).
Gary Carr (guitar, lead vocals) later performed with Geoff Stelling’s Hard Times Bluegrass Band (late 1970’s). He died in 1985.

Red Camel Collective

Posted on June 19, 2024 by WR

RED CAMEL COLLECTIVE

From Walnut Cove, North Carolina.
Formed in 2023 by Tony Mabe (banjo), Heather Berry Mabe (guitar/lead vocals), Johnathan Dillon (mandolin) and Curt Love (bass). They are also members of Junior Sisk’s touring band.
Their name is derived from the Junior Sisk song “The Man in Red Camels.” (Red Camels is a brand of overalls.)
2024, released first single “Roll On Mississippi” (Pinecastle).

Red Clay Ramblers, The

Posted on December 23, 2013November 19, 2018 by WR

THE RED CLAY RAMBLERS

Formed in 1972 by Jim Watson (guitar), Tommy Thompson (banjo) and Bill Hicks (fiddle).
Known as “America’s Favorite Whatzit Band.”
They specialized in energetic bluegrass, old-time, Irish, folk, cajun, blues, ragtime and country.
Their music was featured on the hit TV series “Northern Exposure.”
1974, for six months, they performed in a play called “Diamond Studs” in New York City.
1976, released Twisted Laurel album (Flying Fish)
1977, released Merchants Lunch album (Flying Fish).
1979, released Chuckin’ the Frizz album (Flying Fish).
1981, released Hard Times album (no label).
1987, Shawn Colvin was a member of the band.
1988, founding member Jim Watson left the band to join Robin and Linda Williams and Their Fine Group.
1992, featured on Michelle Shocked’s album “Arkansas Traveler.”
1992, toured Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Jordan and Syria for the U.S. Information Agency.
1992, released Rambler album (Sugar Hill).
1993, they performed in a hit Broadway play called “Fool Moon” which won a Tony Award for the band. This play also had a run at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC.
2002, released Yonder album (no label).
2003, founding member Tommy Thompson died.
2004, performed in an Off-Broadway play called “Lone Star Love.”
2012, celebrated their 40th anniversary as a band.
2018, founding member Bill Hicks died.

Warren, Paul

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

PAUL WARREN

From Hickman County, Tennessee.
1938, began playing fiddle professionally with Johnny Wright and His Tennessee Hillbillies.
1942, joined the Army and during WWII, spent two years in a German POW camp.
1946, rejoined Johnny Wright, now with “Johnny and Jack” until 1953. Also worked with country singer Kitty Wells.
1954, replaced Benny Martin as fiddle player with Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs until their breakup in 1968.
1968, worked with Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass until his (Warren’s) death in 1978. Flatt died in 1979.
Has been called “America’s Greatest Breakdown Fiddler.”
2015, was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Cedar Hill (Georgia)

Posted on November 10, 2013January 7, 2015 by WR

CEDAR HILL

From Atlanta, Georgia.
Formed in 1976.
They perform primarily in Atlanta’s night club district, with a high energy bluegrass, comedy and variety show.
Band members: Jim Duck Adkins (banjo), Bob MacIsaac (guitar), David Ellis (mandolin, fiddle, Dobro™), Jerry Zee (electric bass.)
2006, were voted favorite bluegrass act by Country Atlanta magazine.
They have opened for such touring acts as Doc Watson, Phish, Leon Russell, Tony Rice and Earl Scruggs.
Albums include “Don’t Let the Stars Get in Your Eyeballs”, “Double Album” and “25 Years of Cedar Hill.”

Hand Picked Bluegrass

Posted on January 20, 2016January 20, 2016 by WR

HAND PICKED BLUEGRASS

From Tomahawk, Wisconsin.
Band Members: Joe Cronick (mandolin, guitar, banjo), Sue Cronick (guitar, fiddle), Brian Cate (bass), Robin Mileham (bass).
Cronick is a luthier, owner of Cronick Mandolins.
2006, released “Do What You Gotta Do” album (no label).
2009, released “Sweet Virginia” album (no label).
2011, released Live at Nicolet album (no label)

Adair, Tina

Posted on October 28, 2013January 19, 2022 by WR

TINA ADAIR (THE ADAIRS, BLUEGRASS EDITION)

From Haleyville, Alabama.
Began singing at age 3 in her family band, Bluegrass Edition. They also recorded under the name The Adairs.
She plays mandolin, piano and all the bluegrass instruments.
1996, won first place at the Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown in Owensboro, Kentucky.
1997, Tina recorded Just You Wait & See on Sugar Hill Records. It was produced by Jerry Douglas and featured guest musicians Chris Thile, Bryan Sutton, Aubrey Haynie, Alan O’Bryant and others.
2002, received a degree in music business from Belmont University. She has worked there ever since at the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business.
2012, released Born Bad album (Tab Music Group).
2012, formed the band Sister Sadie with Dale Ann Bradley (guitar), Deanie Richardson (fiddle), Gena Britt (banjo) and Beth Lawrence (bass). Their 2018 album Sister Sadie II was nominated for a Grammy Award. In 2019 Sister Sadie won the IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year.
2020, released album Oh Darlin’ (Pinecastle) a duet album with Dale Ann Bradley, under the name Bradley & Adair.
2021, left Sister Sadie to continue her career as a solo artist. Released Tina Adair album (Englehardt).

Lawrence, Jack

Posted on December 6, 2013May 10, 2022 by WR

JACK LAWRENCE

A guitarist from Charlotte, North Carolina. Lives in Harrisburg, North Carolina.
1970, got his first professional job with Carl Story.
1971, joined the New Deal String Band.
1972, joined the Bluegrass Alliance, replacing Tony Rice.
1983, began working with Doc Watson in concerts and on recordings. After Doc’s son Merle died in 1985, he went full-time as Doc’s musical partner.
2013, released Arthel’s Guitar album (n0 label), using Arthel “Doc” Watson’s guitar on the recording.

Jerusalem Ridge

Posted on December 1, 2013December 10, 2015 by WR

JERUSALEM RIDGE

From Edmonton, Alberta (Canada).
Formed in 1989, they were once known as “The Undisputed Western Canadian Champions of Bluegrass.”
1991, released “North Wind” album (no label).
1993, released “Looking Back” album (no label).
1994, released “Make a Joyful Noise” album (no label).
1998, released “How Far is Heaven?” album (Koch).
1999, released Beyond the Ridge album (no label).
2001, released “Together” album (no label) featuring LeRoy Mack on Dobro™.
2007, released New Jerusalem album (no label).

Hanway, Tom

Posted on November 30, 2013March 30, 2015 by WR

TOM HANWAY

From Larchmont, New York. Currently lives in Ireland.
Began performing at Hampshire College in Amherst, MA in the early 1980’s. He was studying law and labor history at the time.
1984, busked in Europe, was a street musician in Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris.
1985, returned to New York and studied banjo under Tony Trischka and Bill Keith.
1986, formed band called Cumberland Gap.
1988-1990, played banjo with the John Herald Band. Also appeared in the Off-Broadway bluegrass musical “Feast Here Tonight” (1989).
1991, released solo project Bucket Of Bees album (Joyous Gard).
1992, formed Grass Menagerie, later called Blue Horizon. They recorded one album Tom Hanway & Blue Horizon (Joyous Gard Music).
1995, joined Burnt Toast.
1997, co-designed Tom Hanway SwallowTail Deluxe banjo with Geoff Stelling, which becomes a production model (1998) with Standard and Deluxe options. Steve Martin bought one of these models for himself.
1998, Mel Bay published his book/CD “Complete Book of Irish and Celtic 5-String Banjo.” Hanway is originator of a unique style called “Celtic Fingerstyle” banjo.
1997-2002, co-founded Big Apple Bluegrass Society with his first wife, Kathleen Low Hanway (deceased), and promoted the annual Big Apple Bluegrass & Folk Festival in Greenwich Village, NYC.
2003, married Denise Conroy and moved to Ireland
2004-2006, worked with Carmel Sheerin & The Ravens, voted #1 European Bluegrass Band 2005-2006 by EBMA.
2006, promotes Americana music at the United Arts Club in Dublin. Performs with the Badbelly Project and Tennessee Hob.

Chain Station

Posted on May 19, 2019May 19, 2019 by WR

CHAIN STATION

From Denver, Colorado
Formed in 2006 by Alex Thoele (guitar) and Jon Pickett (guitar) in Estes Park, Colorado. They were later joined by Jarrett Mason (mandolin) and Chris “C-Bob” Elliott (banjo).
2015, released Dancin’ with the Law album (no label).
2016, released Where I Want to Be album (no label).
2019, released Backroads album (no label).

Davis, Christian

Posted on February 9, 2019February 9, 2019 by WR

CHRISTIAN DAVIS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
He is primarily known as a bass singer, perhaps the first full-time bass singer in bluegrass music.
1998, began singing professionally with The Sounds of Liberty (at Liberty University). He also performed in Dr. Jerry Falwell’s Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet.
He has also performed with several other gospel quartets including
The Old Friends Quartet (while the legendary bass singer George Younce was ill), The Christian Brothers Quartet, and Mercy’s Mark.
2006, he was the Assistant Director of Recruiting for Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas.
2010, joined Dailey and Vincent, adding bass vocals and playing second guitar.
2015, left Dailey and Vincent to pursue a solo career.
2019, released “The Big Picture” album (Turnberry).

Chandler, Bubba

Posted on November 10, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

BUBBA CHANDLER

Grew up in Alabama and Missouri, then moved to Virginia. Now lives in Hardy, Virginia.
1979-1983, played guitar with the Lost and Found.
After leaving the Lost and Found, he retired from music for several years, eventually returning as a folk/southern rock artist. He also hosted a local TV show called “Friends, Neighbors and Music.”
2010, released solo project Somebody To Sing To on Mountain Fever Records.
2014, released Another Evening With the Music of John Denver album (no label).

Peters, Carson (and Iron Mountain)

Posted on December 29, 2016June 2, 2023 by WR

CARSON PETERS (AND IRON MOUNTAIN)

From Piney Flats, Tennessee.
Began playing fiddle at age 3.
2011, at age 8 made an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
2014, appeared for the first time 2016on the Grand Ole Opry with Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder.
2016, appeared on Little Big Shots with Steve Harvey (NBC).
He has also won several youth fiddle championships.
2016, released “Christmas Time in the Country” (no label), a holiday single.
2017, formed a band called Iron Mountain with his father Jamie (guitar), Eric Marshall (banjo), Ben Marshall (bass) and Austin Tate (mandolin). Eric and Ben Marshall are also father and son
2018, released “Praises from the Mountain” (no label), a gospel album.
2018, appeared with Ricky Skaggs on Skaggs’ induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2019, released Grass Stains album (no label).
2021, appeared on The Voice TV show and received a “four-chair turnaround” from the judges during his first performance on the program. He was coached by Blake Shelton.
2023, released Gotta Lotta Lonesome album (Billy Blue).

Uglum, Eric

Posted on October 23, 2013January 6, 2016 by LJ

ERIC UGLUM

From Apple Valley, California (born in Fort Campbell, Kentucky).
1986, a founding member of Weary Hearts, with Ron Block, Butch Baldassari and Mike Bub. Eric played guitar.
1988, formed New Wine, with Ron and Sandra Block and Rob Ickes.
1992, formed Copperline, with Janet Beazley, Bud Bierhaus and Marshall Andrews.
1997, joined Lost Highway, playing mandolin.
Owns a recording studio, New Wine Studios.
2003, released first solo album.
2004, released Shenandoah Wind album (Backcountry).
2006, formed a trio with his stepsons Christian and Austin Ward. Released a CD called The Old Road to Jerusalem (Backcountry).
2007, he (along with stepsons Christian and Austin Ward) joined Chris Stuart and BackCountry.

Red June

Posted on June 21, 2014April 26, 2023 by WR

RED JUNE

(See also Zoe and Cloyd)

- From Asheville, North Carolina.
- Formed in 2008 by Will Straughan (Dobro™ and guitar), Natalya Zoe Weinstein (fiddle), and John Cloyd Miller (mandolin and guitar).
- Miller and Weinstein were married in 2010.
- Miller is the grandson of fiddler Jim Shumate (who played with Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs).
- 2010, released first album Remember Me Well (no label).
- 2012, released second album Beauty Will Come (no label).
- 2013, Miller won 1st place in the bluegrass category at the Merlefest Chris Austin songwriting contest.
- 2014, released third album Ancient Dreams (Organic).
- Straughan left the band. Weinstein and Miller continued as the duo “Zoe and Cloyd” (their middle names).

Scroggins, Jeff (and Colorado)

Posted on December 30, 2013September 23, 2020 by WR

JEFF SCROGGINS (AND COLORADO)

From Oklahoma. Has also lived in Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas and Canada (British Columbia).
Grew up playing rock guitar in several garage bands but picked up a banjo at age 19 and became obsessed with it.
1989, won the National Bluegrass Banjo championship at Winfield, Kansas.
1990, was a founding member of the Andy Owens Project.
1996, was inducted into the Texas Tornadoes, an unofficial Texas music Hall of Fame.
1999, formed Big Twang, a Wichita, Kansas group.
2007, joined the Blue Canyon Boys, a Colorado-based band which won the Telluride Band Contest a year later.
2009, moved to Colorado and formed his own band Colorado with his 13-year old son Tristin (mandolin). Other members include Greg Blake (guitar), Annie Savage (fiddle), KC Groves (bass).
2013, released Western Branches album (no label) produced by Sally Van Meter.
2016, released “Ramblin Feels Good” album (no label) produced by Bill VornDick.
2019, released Over the Line album (Patuxent), produced by Mark Schatz (who also played bass on the album).
2019, the group disbanded (except to play selected dates). Greg Blake (lead vocals, guitar) moved to Kansas City to form his own band Real Country. Tristan Scroggins (mandolin) moved to Nashville and is pursuing other musical opportunities. Jeff formed a new band called The ScroggDogs.

Lawson, Doyle

Posted on December 6, 2013December 29, 2021 by WR

DOYLE LAWSON (AND QUICKSILVER)

From Kingsport, Tennessee. Lives in Bristol, Tennessee.
His father was in an acapella gospel group called the Clinch Mountain Quartet.
1963, joined Jimmy Martin’s band the Sunny Mountain Boys, playing banjo.
1966, joined J.D. Crowe and the Kentucky Mountain Boys, playing mandolin.
1971, joined the Country Gentlemen, playing mandolin.
1979, formed his own band Quicksilver (original name was Foxfire but discovered the name was already in use.)
1995, adopted a new look and new sound, performing around a single vocal mike with precision choreography.
1998, was the first bluegrass band invited to perform at the National Gospel Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.
2003, won IBMA award for Song of the Year (“Blue Train”).
2005, was elected chairman of the board of the International Bluegrass Music Trust Fund which provides financial assistance to bluegrass artists in times of emergency need. He continues to serve in this capacity.
2006, was presented with a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.
2007, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree by Kings College in Bristol, Tennessee.
2007, won his sixth IBMA Award for Gospel Recorded performance of the Year (also won in 1996, 2000, 2003, 2005 and 2006).
2010, recorded with Paul Simon.
2011, added drums to the band’s sound, much to the consternation of some of his fans. He discontinued using the drums in live performances about a year later.
2011, won the IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year for the song “Prayers Bells of Heaven” by J.D. Crowe, Doyle Lawson and Paul Williams (from their album Old Friends Get Together).
2012, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (IBMA).
2012, won the Inspirational Country Music Award for Band/Vocal Group of the Year.
2018, won his eighth IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year (also won in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007).
2020, won the IBMA Award for Album of the Year (Live in Prague: Czech Republic).
2021, announced that he will retire after the 2022 season.
2021, received the Tennessee Governor’s Arts Award.
2021, after Doyle’s retirement, his band members formed a new band called Authentic Unlimited.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Tennessee Dream (County Records, 1977) This is Doyle’s first solo project, an album of mandolin instrumentals.
The Original Band (Sugar Hill, 1979, 1982) This is a reissue of the first two non-gospel albums by Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver “Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver” and “Quicksilver Rides Again.” Band included Terry Baucom, Lou Reid and Jimmy Haley.
Rock my Soul (Sugar Hill, 1981) This is a classic album of gospel songs. Includes one of his most requested: “On the Sea of Life.”
Heavenly Treasures (Sugar Hill, 1983) Gospel album. Band includes Terry Baucom, Jimmy Haley and Randy Graham.
Once And For Always/The News Is Out (Sugar Hill, 1985/1987) Two albums now packaged together. Two bands: one with Terry Baucom, Jimmy Haley, Randy Graham; the other with Russell Moore, Scott Vestal and Ray Deaton.
Beyond the Shadows (Sugar Hill, 1986) Gospel album. Band includes Russell Moore, Scott Vestal and Curtis Vestal.
Heavens Joy Awaits (Sugar Hill, 1988) Gospel album (acapella). Quartet includes Russell Moore, Scott Vestal and Ray Deaton.
Hymn Time in the Country (Sugar Hill, 1988) Gospel album. Band includes Russell Moore, Scott Vestal, Ray Deaton.
I’ll Wander Back Someday (Sugar Hill, 1988) Band includes Russell Moore, Scott Vestal, Ray Deaton.
I Heard the Angels Singing (Sugar Hill, 1989) Gospel album. Band includes Russell Moore, Scott Vestal, Ray Deaton.
My Heart Is Yours (Sugar Hill, 1990) Band includes Russell Moore, Ray Deaton, Jim Mills and Mike Hargrove.
Only God (Sugar Hill, 1991) Gospel Album. Band includes Jim Mills, Shelton Feazell and John Bowman.
Pressing On Regardless (Music Mill Entertainment, 1993) Band includes John Bowman, Jim Mills, Shelton Feazell, Kim Gardner, Jim Edmonds.
Treasures Money Can’t Buy (Music Mill Entertainment, 1993) Gospel album. Band includes John Bowman, Jim Mills, Shelton Feazell.
Hallelujah In My Heart (Music Mill Entertainment, 1994) Gospel album. Band includes Shawn Lane, Jimmy Stewart, Brad Campbell and John Berry.
Never Walk Away (Sugar Hill, 1995) Band includes Steve Gulley, Barry Abernathy, Dale Perry and Owen Saunders plus guest artists.
There’s a Light Guiding Me (Sugar Hill, 1996) Gospel album. Band includes Steve Gulley, Barry Abernathy, Dale Perry and Owen Saunders.
Kept & Protected (Sugar Hill, 1997) Gospel album. Band includes Barry Scott, Barry Abernathy, Dale Perry, Owen Saunders.
Gospel Radio Gems (Sugar Hill, 1998) Gospel album (acapella). Quartet includes Barry Scott, Barry Abernathy and Dale Perry.
Winding Through Life (Sugar Hill, 1998) Band includes Jamie Dailey, Barry Scott, Dale Perry, Doug Bartlett.
Just Over in Heaven (Sugar Hill, 2000) Gospel album. Band includes Barry Scott, Dale Perry, Jamie Dailey, Doug Bartlett.
Gospel Parade (Sugar Hill, 2001) Gospel album. Band includes Jamie Dailey, Barry Scott, Dale Perry and Hunter Berry.
Hard Game of Love (Sugar Hill, 2002) Includes both the IBMA Song of the Year “Blue Train” and IBMA Gospel Recording of the Year “The Hand Made Cross.” Musicians includes Jamie Dailey, Barry Scott, Dale Perry, Hunter Berry, Barry Abernathy, Jim Van Cleve, Owen Sauders.
Thank God (SSK, 2003) Gospel album. Band includes Jamie Dailey, Barry Scott, Dale Perry, J.W. Stockman, Jess Barry.
School of Bluegrass (Crossroads, 2004) A celebration of Doyle’s 25th anniversary with Quicksilver featuring many of his former band members.
Beyond the Shadows (Sugar Hill, 2004) Band includes Jamie Dailey, Barry Scott, Dale Perry, Jesse Stockman.
You Gotta Dig a Little Deeper (Rounder, 2005) Band includes Jamie Dailey, Barry Scott, Terry Baucom, Jesse Stockman.
He Lives in Me (Horizon, 2006) Won the IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year both in 2006 and 2007. Band includes Jamie Dailey, Terry Baucom, Darren Beachley, Barry Scott, Mike Hartgrove and Jesse Stockman.
More Behind the Picture Than the Wall (Rounder, 2007) Band includes Jamie Dailey, Darren Beachley, Terry Baucom and Mike Hartgrove.
Help Is on the Way (Horizon, 2008) Gospel album. Band includes Darren Beachley, Alan Johnson, Joey Cox, Carl White and Josh Swift.
Lonely Street (Rounder, 2009) Band includes Carl White, Joey Cox, Josh Swift and Darren Beachley.
Light on My Feet, Ready to Fly (Horizon, 2010) Gospel album. Band includes Josh Swift, Jason Barie, Corey Hensley, Mike Rogers, Carl White and Jesse Baker.
Drive Time (Mountain Home, 2011) Band includes Josh Swift, Jason Barie, Corey Hensley, Mike Rogers, Carl White and Jesse Baker.
Sing Me A Song About Jesus (Mountain Home, 2012) Gospel album. Band includes Josh Swift, Mike Rogers, Jessie Baker, Carl White, Jason Barie and Corie Hensley.
Roads Well Traveled (Mountain Home, 2013) Band includes Joe Dean, Corey Hensley, Jason Barie, Mike Rogers and Josh Swift.
Open Carefully: Message Inside (Mountain Home, 2014) Gospel album. Band includes Josh Swift, Jason Barie, Joe Dean, Dustin Pyrtle and Eli Johnston.
In Session (Mountain Home, 2015) Band includes Dustin Pyrtle, Eli Johnston, Joe Dean, Josh Swift and Stephen Burwell.
Life is a Story (Mountain Home, 2017). Band includes Dustin Pyrtle, Eli Johnston, Joe Dean, Josh Swift and Stephen Burwell.
Live in Prague Czech Republic (2019, Billy Blue Records). Band includes Jake Vanover, Jerry Cole, Joe Dean, Josh Swift and Stephen Burwell.
Roundtable (2021, Billy Blue) Band includes Eli Johnston (banjo), Ben James (guitar), Matt Flake (fiddle), Stephen Burwell (fiddle) and Jerry Cole (bass).

Hanzlik, Slavek

Posted on November 30, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

SLAVEK HANZLIK

From Prague, Czechoslavakia (Czech Republic). Lives in Canada.
Learned guitar as a child listening to smuggled-in Doc Watson albums.
Defected to the United States in 1982; moved to Canada in 1986. Also lived in Nashville for a couple of years.
Won the Canadian National Guitar Championship.
1991, released Spring in the Old Country album on Flying Fish Records.
1995, released Summer Solstice album on Sierra Records.
1997, released Fall of My Dreams album on Hollywood Records.
1998, worked with Chris Jones and the Night Drivers.

Scruggs, Earl

Posted on December 30, 2013December 7, 2021 by WR

EARL SCRUGGS

From Shelby, North Carolina. Lived in Madison, Tennessee for most of his life.
Full name: Earl Eugene Scruggs.
He is credited with being the first master of the three-finger style of banjo-playing which defines bluegrass music and which bears his name. Every bluegrass banjo player plays a variation of “Scruggs-style” banjo.
First pro job: At age 15, he played banjo with Zeke and Wiley Morris, the Morris Brothers.
1945, age 21, joined Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1948, Earl and Lester Flatt left Monroe’s band to form their own group, Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys.
1969, after 21 years, he parted company with Lester Flatt to form a new country-rock band with his sons, Gary, Randy and Steve: The Earl Scruggs Revue. The group disbanded ten years later.
1992, was presented with the National Medal for the Arts by President George H.W. Bush in a ceremony at the White House (July 22).
1994, received the Million-Air Award from BMI representing one million broadcast performances of “Foggy Mountain Breakdown.”
1996, underwent hip replacement surgery and suffered a heart attack requiring bypass surgery, all in the same month (October).
1997, returned to the stage, performing at the IBMA Awards Show, the Grand Ole Opry (with Ricky Skaggs, Vince Gill, Marty Stuart and Alison Krauss), and selected festivals. Also played on son Randy’s solo album, and was nominated for Banjo Player of the Year (1998 IBMA Awards).
2002, won Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance for “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” from his Earl Scruggs And Friends album (MCA Nashville).
2003, received his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
2003, recorded and performed with Doc Watson and Ricky Skaggs as The Three Pickers (Rounder).
Quote from John Hartford: “Who was the first three-finger style banjo picker? It doesn’t really matter, because without Earl no one would be asking that question.”
Quote from Sammy Shelor: “Without Earl Scruggs, none of us would be here.”
2005, the Country Music Hall of Fame presented a year-long special exhibit honoring Earl Scruggs titled “Banjo Man: the Life and Legacy of Earl Scruggs.”
2005, appeared on the David Letterman show with Steve Martin, Peter Wernick and other banjo players in a group called “Men With Banjos Who Know How to Use Them.” They played “Foggy Mountain Banjo” together.
2008, received a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement.
2008, released Earl Scruggs with Family & Friends: The Ultimate Collection – Live at the Ryman (Rounder), recorded in 2007 at age 83.
2010, his wife Louise was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame for her contributions to the business side of bluegrass.
2012, Earl died on March 28 at the age of 88.
2014, The Earl Scruggs Center, a museum honoring the life and legacy of Earl Scruggs, was opened in his home town of Shelby on January 11.

Red Molly

Posted on December 23, 2013December 24, 2015 by WR

RED MOLLY

From New York City.
A female vocal trio specializing in folk/Americana with a bluegrassy feel (lots of Dobro™, occasional banjo).
Formed in 2004 by Laurie MacAllister (guitar, banjo, bass), Abbie Gardner (Dobro™, guitar) and Carolann Solebello (guitar, bass) at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival (New York).
2010, Solebello left the group and was replaced by Austin-based singer songwriter and guitarist Molly Venter.
Fans are called “Red Heads.”
“Red Molly” is the name of a character in Richard Thompson’s song “1952 Vincent Black Lightning” which was IBMA Song of the Year in 2002 (recorded by the Del McCoury Band).
Abbie Gardner has released several solo projects featuring her resophonic guitar.
2010, released James album (no label). James is also a character in the song 1952 Vincent Black Lightning.
2011, released Light in the Sky album (no label).
2014, released The Red Album (no label).

Chandler, Nick (and Delivered)

Posted on April 21, 2018September 23, 2022 by WR

NICK CHANDLER AND DELIVERED

From Weaverville, North Carolina.
2003, played mandolin in a band with Bobby Hicks (shortly after Bobby left Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.)
2005, Formed his own group Delivered. Band members: Bo Bullman (guitar), Matthew Norton (bass) and Evan Fowler (banjo).
2017, released Groceries, Gas and Used Cars album (Poor Mountain)
2020, released Inside the Lines album (615 Hideaway).
2020 band lineup: Gary Trivette (bass), Will Eller (banjo) and Hudson Bosworth (guitar).
2021, Eller (banjo) was replaced by Zach McCraken.
2022, Bosworth left the band and was replaced by Bobby Powell (formerly of Carolina Blue).
2022, released Silver Bird album (Pinecastle).

Barbra, Jeff and Sarah Pirkle

Posted on November 1, 2013 by WR

JEFF BARBRA AND SARAH PIRKLE

From Walland, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains.
A husband and wife duo who perform primarily acoustic or Americana music (guitar, mandolin and fiddle). They are also accomplished songwriters.
2000, won first place at Merlefest Songwriting Contest.
2000, released “Dog Years” CD.
1999-2004, hosted a radio program in East Tennessee called “Behind the Barn” on WDVX.
2004, wrote the score for a play called “Measured in Labor: The Coal Creek Project” in Knoxville.
2004, released “Barb Hollow Sessions” CD.
Their songs have been recorded by John Starling, Dale Ann Bradley, Darrell Webb, Charlie Sizemore, Blue Moon Rising and many other bluegrass artists.
2011, after coming to faith, they began hosting a Sunday morning radio show called “In the Spirit.”
2012, released gospel album “Family Singing.”

Kawabata, Maro

Posted on December 2, 2013 by WR

MARO KAWABATA

From Kyoto, Japan.
At age 12, saw Bill Monroe on Japanese TV.
Learned guitar and formed “The Riverside Brothers” with his brother Takaharu.
“Riverside” is a direct English translation of Kawataba.
1997, toured with Randy Howard, Don Rigsby, Missy Raines and Kaz Inaba as “The International Band.”
2001, released first solo album, “Carolina Blue.”
2007, released second solo project called “Rippling Water.”
2010, released third solo project “Sunset Drive.”
2013, died at the age of 51.

Taylor, Wayne (Appaloosa)

Posted on January 1, 2014December 13, 2019 by WR

WAYNE TAYLOR (AND APPALOOSA)

From Conover, North Carolina.
Began playing guitar at age 9.
1971-1973, first bluegrass band was called East Maiden Express.
1974-1978, his first stint with the Navy. After his discharge, he finished his education, earning a degree in music therapy.
1987-2008, re-joined the Navy, sang lead and played guitar with the U.S. Navy Band Country Current (21 years).
He has performed for Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, William J. Clinton, and George.W. Bush.
2007-8, recorded and performed with Bill Emerson and the Sweet Dixie Band.
2008, formed his own band, Appaloosa.
2017, released a country album”Wayne Taylor’s Great American Country Band” (Raincoe).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Buffalo Shoals (Raincoe, 2005)
Dear Mom (Raincoe, 2008)
Wayne Taylor and Appaloosa (Raincoe, 2009)
It’s Gonna Be a Beautiful Day (Raincoe, 2011)
Out in the Middle of Nowhere (Raincoe, 2012)
Movin On (Raincoe, 2014)

Chandler, Travis (and Avery County)

Posted on November 10, 2013February 25, 2020 by WR

TRAVERS CHANDLER AND AVERY COUNTY

From Baltimore, Maryland. Chandler was born in Roxboro, North Carolina.
Chandler plays mandolin and sings lead.
Before forming Avery County in 2008, he was a member of the James King Band, Audie Blaylock and Redline, Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass.
Avery County was named for a 1978 album recorded by Chandler’s hero Charlie Moore.
They call their music “Baltimore Barroom Bluegrass.”
2010, released State of Depression album (Patuxent Records).
2011, Chris Pandolfi of the Infamous Stringdusters mentioned Chandler in his “Big Tent” keynote address, naming him as a good example of artists working to preserve the traditional style of bluegrass music.
2012, released Pardon Me album (no label).
2016, disbanded Avery County and formed a new band with guitarist Steven Dowdy.

Gillis Brothers, The

Posted on November 27, 2013August 25, 2016 by WR

THE GILLIS BROTHERS (AND HARD DRIVING BLUEGRASS)

From Soperton, Georgia.
Call their music “Mountain Style Bluegrass from the Georgia Swamplands.”
Brothers: Larry (banjo) and John (guitar). Larry is four years older than John.
Their band is called Hard Driving Bluegrass, which pretty much sums up their approach to the music.
Until 1997, they wore 50’s-era white hats on stage. “I had a headache all the time … and it’s hard to keep ‘em clean,” says John.
1995, released Heart & Soul album (Rebel Records).
2003, John Gillis was injured in a logging accident, preventing him from touring with the band.
2004, released Down By the River album (Hay Holler).
2005, released Sunshine in the Shadows album (Hay Holler).
2005, Larry formed the Larry Gillis Band and performs mostly around the Tampa, Florida area.
2016, John returned to performing with his brother. The act is called Larry and John Gillis and Swampgrass.

Barenberg, Russ

Posted on November 1, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

RUSS BARENBERG

From southeast Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. Moved to Nashville in 1986.
Guitarist who plays bluegrass laced with jazz, folk, cajun, celtic, carribean and latin elements.
He is also a renowned guitar instructor, with many instruction videos and DVD’s to his credit.
As a session musician, he has recorded with such artists as Randy Travis, Emmylou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Tim O’Brien, Sam Bush and many others.
1970, joined Peter Wernick and Tony Trischka in the New York-based group Country Cooking.
1977, formed a new band called Heartlands.
1979, released solo project, “Cowboy Calypso.”
1979, formed Fiddle Fever with Matt Glaser and Jay Ungar. They performed in the Ken Burns TV series “The Civil War.”
1982, performed on Jerry Douglas’ “Fluxedo” album.
1992, toured with Irish folk-singer Maura O’Connell.
1988, released Moving Pictures album (Rounder Records).
1989-2001, performed in a trio with Jerry Douglas and Edgar Meyer and recorded the album Skip Hop & Wobble (Sugar Hill Records).
2007, formed the Russ Barenberg Quartet and released When at Last album (Compass Records.)

Red Wine

Posted on December 23, 2013September 28, 2023 by WR

RED WINE

From Genoa, Italy.
Formed in 1978.
One of Europe’s first professional bluegrass bands.
Guitarist Beppe Gambetta was a founding member of this band.
Founding members Martino Coppo and Silvio Ferretti also perform with a band called Freewheelin.
They have toured the U.S. many times and have shared billings with Ricky Skaggs, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Tony Rice, Ralph Stanley, Del McCoury, the Lonesome River Band and many others.
2001, released “Italian Cats” album (no label).
2007, released Winter’s Come & Gone album (no label).
2008, celebrated their 30th anniversary together as a band.
2015, released “Pickin’ Friends” album (no label).
2023, received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA.

Seckler, Curly

Posted on December 30, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

CURLY SECKLER

From China Grove, North Carolina..
Real name: John Ray Sechler.
First band: The Yodeling Rangers, with his brothers (1935).
1939, was one of the original members of Charlie Monroe’s Kentucky Partners.
1945, first played on the Grand Ole Opry, with Danny Bailey.
1946, recorded with Charlie Monroe (first recordings by the Kentucky Partners).
1949, joined Flatt & Scruggs, over the next dozen years he sang tenor and played mandolin on many of their biggest hits of the day and their most popular classics all of have stood the test of time.
1952, recorded with Jim & Jesse McReynolds on their first Capitol records.
1955-1962, appeared with Flatt & Scruggs on television across the southeast, and on the Grand Ole Opry.
1962, retired from music (temporarily) and started a trucking business.
1971, recorded “Curly Seckler Sings Again” (Country Records).
1973, un-retired to join Lester Flatt and The Nashville Grass. Lester died in 1979, but at Lester’s request, took over the Nashville Grass and kept the group going until 1994 (He formed a partnership with lead singer Willis Spears, who joined the group in 1981).
1994, released 60 Years of Bluegrass album (Vine Street Records). This album was later re-issued by Copper Creek Records (in 2005).
1996, received a Distinguished Achievement Award from IBMA.
2004, inducted into IBMA Hall of Fame.
2005, released That Old Book of Mine album (County).
2005, released Down in Caroline album (Copper Creek).
2006, released Bluegrass Don’t You Know album (Copper Creek).
2008, performed on the PBS show, Song of the Mountains, accompanied by the Steep Canyon Rangers.
2010, inducted into North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.
2010, celebrated his 90th birthday and his 75th anniversary in music.
2011, inducted into Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Hall of Fame.
2016, his biography was published Foggy Mountain Troubador (Univ. of Illinois Press), written by Penny Parsons.
2017, died at the age of 98 (on 12/27)

Lawson, Glenn

Posted on December 6, 2013 by WR

GLENN LAWSON

From Spencer County, Kentucky
1972, played guitar with the Bluegrass Alliance.
1975, played guitar and sang lead with J.D. Crowe and the New South.
1977, joined Spectrum (with Bela Fleck, Jimmy Gaudreau and Mark Schatz).
During his time off as a musician, he worked as an insurance auditor and raised his family.
2006, released an album of original songs “The Human Condition” with a group called the Mountain Music Machine.

Seldom Scene, The

Posted on December 30, 2013April 16, 2024 by WR

THE SELDOM SCENE

From Washington, D.C.
Formed in 1971 by John Duffey (mandolin), John Starling (guitar and lead vocals), Ben Eldridge (banjo), Mike Auldridge (Dobro™), Tom Gray (bass).
Name “Seldom Scene” was originally chosen because the group decided to stay at home and play once a week at a local club near their homes and day jobs.
First gig: The Rabbit’s Foot (a bar) in Washington, D.C. (November, 1971). Quit because the bartender wouldn’t turn down the TV.
Performed for several years on Thursday nights at the Red Fox Inn in Bethesda, Maryland. Later moved to the Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.
Mandolinist Duffy previously worked with the Country Gentlemen.
Lead singers: John Starling (he was both the first and the fourth), Phil Rosenthal, Lou Reid, Moondi Klein, Dudley Connell.
1988, T. Michael Coleman replaced Gray after having worked with Doc and Merle Watson.
November 10th, 1986, celebrated their 15th anniversary at Washington D.C.’s Kennedy Center. Special guests: Ricky Skaggs, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, the Whites, Jonathan Edwards and presidential press secretary James Brady, who brought congratulatory greetings from then-President Ronald Reagan.
Career highlight: performing for President Jimmy Carter at the White House.
1992, John Starling returned to the band as lead singer. Was replaced by Moondi Klein in 1994.
1995, Moondi Klein, Mike Auldridge and T. Michael Coleman left to devote full time to their new band, Chesapeake.
1996, Klein, Auldridge and Coleman were replaced by Dudley Connell (guitar/lead vocals), Ronnie Simpkins (bass) and Fred Travers (Dobro™).
Sept. 1996, John Duffey was inducted in the IBMA Hall of Fame with the “Classic Country Gentlemen.”
Sept. 1996, Connell underwent surgery to remove a growth from his vocal chords.
December 1996, John Duffey died at the age of 62.
1997, Lou Reid rejoined the group, replacing Duffey on mandolin.
2000, Connell won IBMA award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
2003, the original Seldom Scene re-united for several concerts (calling themselves The Seldom Seniors) with Larry Stephenson taking John Duffy’s spot.
2013 (October) celebrated their 40th anniversary with a concert at the Red Fox Inn in the Washington DC area with past and present band members plus guests including Emmylou Harris.
2014, the original band was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
2014, released Long Time: Seldom Scene album (Smithsonian Folkways).
2016, Ben Eldridge (the last remaining original member) officially retired from the band. Rickie Simpkins joined the band, playing banjo and fiddle.
2017, Ronnie Stewart joined the band, replacing Rickie Simpkins.
2019, original guitarist and lead singer John Starling died at the age of 79.
2019, released Changes album (Rounder).
2024, original banjo player Ben Eldridge died at the age of 85.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Act One (Rebel, 1972)
Act Two (Rebel, 1973)
Act Three (Rebel, 1973)
Old Train (Rebel, 1974)
Live at the Cellar Door (Rebel, 1975)
New Seldom Scene Album (Rebel, 1976)
Baptizing (Rebel, 1978)
Act Four (Rebel, 1979)
After Midnight (Rebel, 1981)
Best of the Seldom Scene (Rebel, 1987)
A Change of Scenery (Sugar Hill, 1988)
15th Anniversary Celebration (Sugar Hill, 1988)
Scenic Roots (Sugar Hill, 1990)
20th Anniversary Concert (Sugar Hill, 1992)
Dream Scene (Sugar Hill, 1996)
Scene It All (Sugar Hill, 2001)
Scenechronized (Sugar Hill, 2007)

Sells, Tommy

Posted on January 13, 2014 by WR

SELLS, TOMMY (SEE BIG COUNTRY BLUEGRASS)

Feller and Hill (and the Bluegrass Buckaroos)

Posted on November 23, 2013January 28, 2022 by WR

FELLER AND HILL (AND THE BLUEGRASS BUCKAROOS)

From Southern Indiana/Northern Kentucky.
Formed in 2010.
Describe their sound as “Buck Owens and Don Rich sing the Stanley Brothers.”
Tom Feller (guitar) has previously worked with Jerry Williamson & Redwing, The Larry Stephenson Band, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, and 3 Fox Drive. He is also a recording engineer.
Chris Hill (banjo) previously worked with Gerald Evans and Paradise, The Wildwood Valley Boys, the James King Band, and The Karl Shiflett and Big Country Show. Chris is also a national clogging champion.
2013, released Feller and Hill and the Bluegrass Buckaroos album (Blue Circle).
2014, released Here Come Feller and Hill…Again! album (Blue Circle).
2017, released Brothers and Heroes album (Rural Rhythm).
2017, merged with Tony Holt and the Wildwood Valley Boys.

Barie, Jason

Posted on November 1, 2013June 23, 2023 by WR

JASON BARIE

From Tampa, Florida. Lives in Portland, Tennessee.
Began playing fiddle at age 10.
6-time winner of the Florida State Fiddle Championship.
2002-7, worked with Jim and Jesse, the Sand Mountain Boys, Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road, Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top XPress, other bands.
2007, joined the Larry Stephenson Band (becoming the first fiddle player ever in Stephenson’s band).
2007, released solo project Past Is Present.
2009, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
2014, joined Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers.
2019, released Jason Barie as the Ramblin’ Fiddler in Pieces album (Billy Blue)
2023, released Radioactive album (Billy Blue).

Hard Ryde

Posted on November 30, 2013December 17, 2015 by WR

HARD RYDE

From Ontario, Canada
Formed in 1997.
Members: Doug DeBoer (guitar), Sally Ryba (banjo), Nick McDonald (mandolin), Nancy MacLellan (bass), Wayne Ferguson (fiddle).
Have won numerous Central Canadian Bluegrass Awards including Best Overall Group of the Year and Vocal Group of the Year. Band Members have also won numerous individual awards.
2001, released Step By Step album (Orchard).
2008, inducted into the Central Canadian Bluegrass Hall of Fame.
2013 lineup: DeBoer (guitar), Rich Koop (bass), Will Meadows (mandolin), Luke Pukrin (banjo), Mark Roy (guitar/mandolin), Shawn Kellett (fiddle).

Wasson, Ricky

Posted on January 6, 2014July 14, 2016 by WR

RICKY WASSON

From Clay City, Kentucky.
Began playing bluegrass when he was four years old. He says that he never knew there was any other kind of music until he was 10.
1984, formed a band called Southern Blend.
Owns a music store in Clay City.
Filled in as guitar player in Alison Krauss’ band for a short time.
1996, released first CD “Songs from the Old Country Church.”
1998, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South, singing lead.
2008, released solo project From The Heart & Soul (Rural Rhythm).
2012, formed a new band called American Drive with Dwight McCall and other former members of The New South (after J.D. Crowe retired).
2016, released solo project “Croweology” (Truegrass Entertainment) and formed the Ricky Wasson Band.

Barker, Linda

Posted on November 1, 2013November 1, 2013 by WR

LINDA BARKER

See APPALACHIAN TRAIL.

Red, White and Blue(grass)

Posted on December 23, 2013July 7, 2018 by WR

RED, WHITE AND BLUE(GRASS)

Originally from Birmingham, Alabama. Worked for many years in Atlanta, Georgia.
Formed in 1970 by Ginger Boatwright (vocals), Grant Boatwright (guitar), Dave Sebolt (bass) and Dale Whitcomb (banjo). Norman Blake (mandolin) was also a member of this band for a short time.
1973, had a hit record (reached #71 on the Billboard Charts) with “July, You’re a Woman,” written by John Stewart of the Kingston Trio. This song appears on the album Guaranteed(GRC).
1974, released “Pickin’ Up” album (GRC).
1977, released “Red White and Blue (grass) and Company” album (Mercury).
1979, the Boatwrights divorced and the band broke up.
Ginger Boatwright (who sang lead and fronted the band) later formed a Nashville group called the Bushwhackers and also worked 22 years with the Doug Dillard Band (until 2003).

Peterson, David (and 1946)

Posted on December 22, 2013January 11, 2019 by WR

DAVID PETERSON (AND 1946)

From Nashville, Tennessee. Originally from Easton, Massachusetts.
A historian of bluegrass and country music and has performed with several bluegrass bands in Massachusetts, Texas, and Tennessee.
Formerly performed with a gospel group called Zion Mountain Bluegrass and the Andy Owens Project.
1990, got a degree in pastoral ministry from Southwestern Assembly of God University. Served as a minister of music at a church in Mansfield, Massachusetts.
He has also worked as a fish delivery truck driver, a telemarketer, and a landscaper.
1996, released solo project Jesus Use Me (no label).
1998, formed his band “1946.”
Band name comes from the year the original bluegrass band (Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys with Lester Flatt, Earl Scruggs, Chubby Wise and Cedric Rainwater) first recorded. They wear vintage 1940’s attire when performing.
2001, released first album David Peterson & 1946 (no label).
2001, became first band to be officially sponsored by the Gibson Company in Nashville.
2003, toured with Brooks and Dunn.
2009, released In the Mountaintops to Roam album (no label).
2009, released Howling Blue Winds album (no label).
2009, released Comin’ On Strong album (no label).
2019, after several years of busking, Peterson reorganized his band with Lincoln Hensley (banjo), Josh Gooding (mandolin) and Mike Bub (bass).

Lay, Linda

Posted on January 24, 2022October 17, 2022 by WR

LINDA LAY (AND SPRINGFIELD EXIT)

From Stephens City, Virginia.
1984-2001, she was lead singer and bassist with the group Appalachian Trail. She also performed under the name Linda Barker.
2000, toured with a show called “Masters of the Steel String Guitar.”
2003, she recorded a solo project for the Cracker Barrel record label and another an album with husband David Lay (guitarist with Appalachian Trail), Tom Adams (banjo) and David McLaughlin (mandolin) called Springfield Exit.
2004, re-organized Appalachian Trail with several new members.
2022, released self-titled solo project on Mountain Fever Records.
2022, Joey Cox joined Springfield Exit playing banjo.

Daughters of Bluegrass, The

Posted on November 20, 2013January 29, 2015 by WR

THE DAUGHTERS OF BLUEGRASS

The brainchild of Lorraine Jordan and Gena Britt, who decided in 2001 to record an album featuring many of the top women musicians in bluegrass music.
The “Daughters” include more than 40 female artists including Jordan and Britt, Dale Ann Bradley, Valerie Smith, Claire Lynch, Sonya and Becky Isaacs, Rhonda Vincent, Alecia Nugent, Jeannette Williams and many others.
2001, recorded first album called Daughters of American Bluegrass (CMH Records).
2006, recorded a second album titled Back To The Well (Blue Circle Records) which won the IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year.
2008, recorded third album Bluegrass Bouquet (Blue Circle).
2013, recorded fourth album, Pickin Like a Girl (Blue Circle).

Davies, Gail

Posted on November 19, 2013January 29, 2015 by WR

GAIL DAVIES

From Nashville, Tennessee. (Born in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.).
Began performing at age 9 in a family band.
Late sixties, moved to Los Angeles and performed in several rock, pop and jazz groups, finally returning to country music which she loved best.
Early days: worked with Hoyt Axton and Roger Miller.
Has recorded hits for Warner Brothers, RCA and Capitol Records.
1980, had first #1 single with Paul Craft’s “Blue Heartache.”
1986, had a group called Wild Choir (recorded for RCA).
2001, recorded a live bluegrass album at the Station Inn in Nashville: Live & Unplugged at the Station Inn (Valley Records).

Mary and Mars

Posted on December 17, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

MARY AND MARS

From Santa Fe, New Mexico.
An acoustic trio formed in 2002 to explore the outer limits of bluegrass. They played everything from bluegrass classics to Motown and reggae.
Members: Sharon Gilchrist (mandolin), Ben Wright (guitar) and Josh Martin (bass).
Gilchrist previously played mandolin and bass with the Dixie Chicks. She has a degree in Mandolin Studies from Belmont University in Nashville. Also studied mandolin in Savona, Italy with master Carlo Aonzo.
2004, released Mary & Mars Live at The Old Blinking Light album (Big Headed Kid Music).
2004, broke up. Gilchrist went on to work with Uncle Earl, The Peter Rowan and Tony Rice Quartet and other bands.

Garrett, Jeremy

Posted on September 9, 2016April 11, 2022 by WR

JEREMY GARRETT

From Idaho.
Began his musical career playing fiddle with his father Glen (guitar) in a group called The Grasshoppers. Honi Deaton (then Honi Glenn) was also in the band.
Attended South Plains College in Levelland, Texas. After graduation, he moved to Nashville where he worked with Bobby Osborne, Chris Jones, Ronnie Bowman, Jim Hurst and backed award-winning country singer Lee Ann Womack. He also released a gospel album with his father Glen under the name Garrett Grass.
Nicknames: “G-Grass” and “Freedom Cobra.”
2005, formed the Infamous Stringdusters.
2009, released solo project I Am a Stranger (Sugar Hill).
2014, released solo project The RV Sessions (no label), recorded in his RV.
2016, released instrumental album The RV Sessions II (Obsidian).
2020, released solo project Circles (Organic).
2022. released solo project River Wild (Organic).

Taylor’s Grove

Posted on January 1, 2014 by WR

TAYLOR’S GROVE

From Kennebunk, Maine.
A gospel and mountain music duo featuring veteran country singer Mac McHale and gospel singer Carolyn Hutton. They alternate on guitar, mandolin, and banjo.
The name “Taylor’s Grove” comes from the little North Carolina church where Carolyn Hutton grew up singing with her family.
Mac McHale also performs with “The Radio Gang” and the Celtic/country duo “Two Old Friends” (with Emery Hutchins). He is a member of the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame and was inducted as a “Pioneer” of bluegrass music by the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Hargreaves, Tatiana

Posted on November 30, 2013March 30, 2016 by WR

TATIANA HARGREAVES

From Corvallis, Oregon.
2008, won first place at the Oregon State Old Time Fiddler’s contest, the youngest winner in the contest’s history (age 13).
Her brother Alex is also an accomplished fiddler and mandolin player.
2009, released first album Started Out to Ramble at age 14 (Patuxent Records). Produced by Bruce Molsky.

Gaudet, Jim (and the Railroad Boys)

Posted on November 27, 2013October 6, 2017 by WR

JIM GAUDET AND THE RAILROAD BOYS

From Albany, New York.
A flat-pick guitarist, best known as a singer/songwriter. Began playing bluegrass (mandolin) with a New York band called the Lost County Ramblers.
2006, formed Jim Gaudet and the Railroad Boys. Band members: Bobby Ristau (bass), Sten Isachsen (mandolin) and Mat Kane (fiddle). Sara Milonovich (fiddle) replaced Kane. Kevin Maul (Dobro™) has also made appearance and recordings this band.
2009, released So Far So Good album (no label)
2013, released Reasons That I Run album (no label).
2016, released When It Rains album (no label).

Harmon, Bull

Posted on November 30, 2013November 13, 2024 by WR

BULL HARMAN

From Florissant, Missouri. (Originally from Alton, Illinois.)
Began playing guitar at age 12. With his brother and sister formed “The Harman Trio,” recording first album in 1977.
1982, wife Tammy joined the group which was by this time called “The Harman Family.”
1996-1998, worked with Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
1999, released solo album with guests Alison Krauss, Rhonda Vincent and others.
2000, formed his own band, “Bull’s Eye” and released self-titled album (no label).
2002, released “Rosewood, Spruce and Ebony” album (no label).
2004, 2006, won SPBGMA Midwest Guitar Player of the Year.
For 15 years, he was a welder by trade.
2009, won Silver Dollar City’s Single Microphone Championship.
2010, released “Aiming to Please” album (Bull’s Eye).
2017, released “Draw Four” album (Bull’s Eye).

Watkins, Allen

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

ALLEN WATKINS

From Alabama.
1976, formed the Homemade String Band at age 16. Won the North Alabama Banjo Championship.
1978, joined the Front Porch String Band and performed on their landmark debut album (1980).
Has also worked with the Lonesome River Band, Mark Johnson and Clawgrass, Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike.
2002, formed his own group, The Allen Watkins Band with his wife Anne. Has also performed with his wife in a group called The Other Guise.

Chapman, Sarah

Posted on July 25, 2020October 9, 2021 by WR

SARAH CHAPMAN

From Northeast Alabama.
Began singing as a young teen, received her first guitar at age 16.
2018, moved to Nashville at age 20.
2020, released first album “Winnebago” (no label).

Ferguson & Ferguson

Posted on May 1, 2016April 17, 2017 by WR

FERGUSON AND FERGUSON

From Fredericksburg, Virginia and Littlestown, Pennsylvania.
Both members of this duo are named Gary Ferguson. They are not related.
Gary Ferguson (Virginia) is a former member of the Knoxville Grass and toured with Donna Fargo.
Gary Ferguson (Pennsylvania) is a singer/songwriter who has released numerous albums under his own name and with other musicians including Sally Love, Jordan Tice, Emory Lester and others.
2014, while touring Ireland together, they decided to form a duo.
2016, released their first album together Some Bridges (no label).

Barons of Bluegrass, The

Posted on November 1, 2013 by WR

THE BARONS OF BLUEGRASS

See Walter Hensley.

Adams, Brandon Lee

Posted on February 28, 2014November 16, 2020 by WR

BRANDON LEE ADAMS

From Charleston, West Virginia. Lives in Webbville, Kentucky.
A flat-pick guitarist, singer and songwriter who began playing at age 8 in church.
As a high school student, he won several talent contests which led to an appearance at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville (1996).
2004, worked with Don Rigsby.
2008, appeared on the album Celebrations of Life: Musicians Against Childhood Cancer (IBMA Album of the Year).
2014, released solo project Hardest Kind of Memories (no label) with special guest Tony Rice.
2018, released second album “Time That I Was Leavin'” (Tritium).

Harper, Dalton

Posted on March 29, 2023 by WR

DALTON HARPER

From Bunker, Missouri.
He is a singer, guitarist and songwriter who grew up performing with his family group The Harper Family.
2019, joined Missouri band Cedar Hill, playing guitar and singing lead.
2019, formed a country band called Ridgeway Pass.
2022, signed a record deal with Skyline Records.
2023, released first single “Highway of Love” (Skyline).

Necessary, Frank

Posted on December 20, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

FRANK NECESSARY

From Ruckersville, Virginia. He was born in Boone’s Camp, Kentucky and worked in the Baltimore/Washington DC area as well as in Ohio.
Played banjo and was the leader or co-leader of several bands including the Stone Mountain Boys, Buzz Busby, the Spruce Mountain Boys and Eastern Tradition.
He played banjo in the style of Don Reno.
1976, released Al Jones, Frank Necessary & The Spruce Mountain Boys album (Rounder).
1987, released “Frank Necessary, Al Jones and Buzz Busby” album on Old Homestead Records.
2011, died at the age of 76.

Keel, Larry

Posted on December 2, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

LARRY KEEL (AND NATURAL BRIDGE)

From Glasgow, Virginia.
Keel is a 2-time winner of the Telluride Flatpick Guitar Championship (1993, 1995).
Early days: had a group called McGraw Gap. Also worked as a contract musician at Disney World in Tokyo.
2000,formed a band called The Larry Keel Experience. This band included Curtis Burch, an original member of the New Grass Revival.
2006, formed a band called Natural Bridge with Mark Schimick (mandolin), Will Lee (banjo) and wife Jenny Keel (bass).
2012, recorded “Classic” album.
Has a website called Fishin and Pickin combining his love for music and fishing. He hosts various music events for fisherman such as Bass and Grass (Georgia) and Trout and Tunes (West Virginia).

Tennessee Bluegrass Band

Posted on December 18, 2021August 8, 2024 by WR

TENNESSEE BLUEGRASS BAND

From east Tennessee.
Formed in 2020 by Aynsley Porchak (fiddle), Lincoln Hensley (banjo), John Meador (guitar), Gracie Meador (bass) and Tim Laughlin (mandolin). The Meadors are married.
The group formed as a spin-off of the band Carolina Blue. When Carolina Blue co-founder Bobby Powell left the group, he took the name Carolina Blue with him and the remaining members formed a new band.
2021, signed a recording contract with Billy Blue Records.
2021, the Meadors left the group to start a family.
2022, Lincoln Mash (guitar) and Tyler Griffith (bass) joined the band.
2023, Geary Allen (guitar) and Anissa Burnett (bass) joined the band, replacing Mash and Griffith.
2024, Porchak left the group and joined the Darren Nicholson Band.
2024, new lineup: Hensley (banjo), Laughlin (mandolin), Michael Feagin (fiddle), brothers Jacob and Josiah Sheffield (guitar and bass).

Mashville Brigade, The

Posted on December 17, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

THE MASHVILLE BRIGADE

From Nashville.
Formed in 2007.
Like the Sidemen before them, this group was formed to perform at Nashville’s Station Inn on Tuesday nghts.
Band members included Aaron McDaris (banjo), Darrell Webb, (guitar), Ashby Frank (mandolin), Jim Van Cleve (fiddle) and Randy Barnes (bass). They were all members of other bands.
Occasional Brigadeers included Josh Williams (guitar) and Scott Vestal (banjo).
2008, released Bluegrass Smash Hits Volume 1 album (Rural Rythm), recorded live at the Station Inn.
2009, did some touring with Terry Baucom (banjo) subbing for Aaron McDaris.

Watson, Doc

Posted on January 6, 2014February 23, 2021 by WR

DOC WATSON

From Deep Gap, North Carolina.
One of America’s best known folk singers and flat-pick guitarists.
Real name: Arthel Lane Watson.
1960, he was “discovered” by folklorist Ralph Rinzler.
Was born with a defect in the main vessels that carry blood to the eyes, causing him to permanently lose his vision as a small child.
Even though he was blind, he was able to perform tasks that seemed almost impossible without vision. For example, he completely wired his house for electricity. All of the wiring was passed by the county building inspector and the feat was written up in an electrical journal.
1953-1962, played with a North Carolina group called “Jack Williams and the Country Gentlemen.”
Doc’s first bluegrass recording: a 1965 album of instrumentals with Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs.
For more than 25 years, Doc traveled and performed with his son Merle. Merle was killed in a tractor accident on the Watson farm in 1985.
After Merle’s death, guitarist Jack Lawrence served as Doc’s right-hand man on stage and on the road.
1965, performed at the first bluegrass festival (Carlton Haney’s Fincastle, VA festival).
September, 1997, received the National Medal of Arts from President and Mrs. Clinton at the White House.
2000, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
He recorded more than 50 albums and won seven Grammies. In 2004, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by NARAS.
2003, recorded and performed with Earl Scruggs and Ricky Skaggs as one of “The Three Pickers.”
2012, died after a long illness at the age of 89.
2012, posthumously won the IBMA Award for Guitar Player of the Year.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

The Definitive Doc Watson (Sugar Hill)
The Best Of Doc Watson 1964-1968 (Vanguard)
The Essential Doc Watson (Vanguard)
Riding the Midnight Train (Sugar Hill) with the Nashville Bluegrass Band.
My Dear Old Southern Home (Sugar Hill)

Harper Family, The

Posted on November 30, 2013March 29, 2023 by WR

THE HARPER FAMILY

From Bunker, Missouri.
A gospel family bluegrass band featuring Gaylon and Katrina Harper (banjo and bass) and their three children Dalton (guitar), Dillon (mandolin), and Hannah (fiddle). Gaylon and Katrina met at a bluegrass festival where they were each performing, Gaylon with the Bressler Brothers and Katrina with her family, The Bob Lewis Family. In need of a banjo picker, the Lewises hired Gaylon. Within a year, Gaylon and Katrina were married. The two began a family of their own and had three talented children.
2012, released “Changes” album on Pisgah Ridge Records.
2013, 19-year old Dalton Harper was diagnosed with stage 2B Hodgkins Lymphoma, a cancer that attacks the immune system.
2014, released Through It All album on Pisgah Ridge Records, produced by Balsam Range’s Tim Surrett.
2023, Dalton Harper released his first single “Highway of Love” (Skyline).

Harper, Jamie

Posted on May 17, 2015 by WR

JAMIE HARPER

From Mocksville, North Carolina.
He plays all the bluegrass instruments but is best known as a fiddle player.
Began performing professionally at age 18. He has worked with Michelle Nixon and Drive, Donna Hughes, Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain, the Skip Cherryholmes Quintet, Marty Raybon, Blue Moon Rising and Ramblers Choice.
2014, joined Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice.
2015, released solo project Old Pal (Mountain Fever Records).

Gaudreau, Jimmy

Posted on November 27, 2013February 28, 2015 by WR

JIMMY GAUDREAU

From Rhode Island.
Mandolinist who in 1969 replaced John Duffey in the Country Gentlemen.
Other bands: Eddie Adcock and the IInd Generation, J.D. Crowe and the New South, The Country Store (with Keith Whitley), Spectrum (with Bela Fleck), and the Tony Rice Unit.
First band: “Jimmy G. and the Jaguars” (Jimmy’s initials are J.A.G.)
1995, founded new acoustic band Chesapeake.
1995, produced an album on his own label called “The Young Mando Monsters” featuring top young mandolin players.
1999, formed group with Mike Auldridge and Richard Bennett called ‘Auldridge, Bennett and Gaudreau.”
2001, joined Robin and Linda Williams and Their Fine Group.
2006, joined John Starling and Carolina Star. Released solo project In Good Company (CMH Records).
2007, formed a duo with Moondi Klein (former bandmate in the Seldom Scene and Chesapeake). Released first album 2:10 Train (Rebel Records).
2008, released Adcock, Gaudreau, Waller & Gray album with Eddie Adcock, Tom Gray and Randy Waller as the “Country Gentlemen Reunion Band.”
2008, he and Klein toured with Emmylou Harris.
2010, released solo album Pieces & Bits (Goose Creek).
2012, released Home from The Mills album with Moondi Klein (Rebel Records).
2014, released If I Had a Boat album with Moondi Klein (Rebel Records).

Tennessee Gentlemen, The

Posted on January 1, 2014April 1, 2024 by WR

THE TENNESSEE GENTLEMEN

From Memphis, Tennessee.
Formed in 1967 by mandolinist Troy Castleberry, a Memphis fireman.
For 10 years, the group practiced and performed every Friday night at The Bluegrass Shack in Memphis. It was a 100-year-old two-room schoolhouse which burned down on July 4, 1989.
1977, released “The Tennessee Gentlemen” album (Southern Tracks).
1980, won eleven awards out of eleven categories at the SPBGMA awards show in Lake Ozark, MO, including Best Band, Best Album, Best Mandolin Player, and Best Contemporary Male Vocalist.
1979, released “Just Us” album (no label).
1980, released “Sunday Morning” album (no label). Group at that time included Donny Catron (guitar), Richard Bailey (banj0) and Steve Gregory (bass).
1981, released “Hey Mr. Train” album (Ridge Runner).
1987, released “Heading West” album (Bluegrass Shack). The group at that time included Wayne Southards (guitar) and Stuart Brownlee (bass), along with Castleberry (mandolin) and Bailey (banjo).
2000, founder Castleberry died at the age of 71.
2003, a new version of the band was organized by former member Donny Catron.
2016, Catron died at the age of 60.

Watson, Jim

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

JIM WATSON

From North Carolina.
A founding member of the Red Clay Ramblers.
1988, joined Robin and Linda Williams and Their Fine Group, playing bass.
Also performs with a group called Pinky LaCrosse and Duke Wyoming, and with a bluegrass band called the Green Level Entertainers.

Harrell, Bill

Posted on November 30, 2013March 1, 2015 by WR

BILL HARRELL

From Marion, Virginia. Lived in Davidsonville, Maryland for many years.
Began performing in the 1950’s.
Formed his band The Virginians in the early 60’s. Recorded several landmark albums for United Artists and Monument Records. This group appeared regularly on the Jimmy Dean’s CBS-TV show.
1966, teamed up with Don Reno and the Tennessee Cutups, singing lead in place of the late Red Smiley.
1977, was involved in a traffic accident that left him with two broken legs. Reno and Harrell officially called it quits in September of that year
1978, re-organized “The Virginians” and continued to perform with this group (with numerous personnel changes over the years) until the mid-90’s when he retired.
Was a good friend of the late singer Jim Reeves. Bill wrote several songs for him.
Once considered changing his name to “Morgan Atkins” and going country. (Name is a combination of his wife’s and his mother’s maiden names.
He performed for presidents Nixon, Reagan and Bush.
His son Mitch Harrell performed for many years with the Virginians and became a solo artist.
2008, recieved a “Distinguished Achievement Award” from the IBMA.
2009 (June 24), died after suffering a stroke.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Classic Bluegrass (Rebel Records)

Davis, David (and the Warrior River Boys)

Posted on November 19, 2013September 16, 2024 by WR

DAVID DAVIS AND THE WARRIOR RIVER BOYS

A traditional bluegrass band from Cullman, Alabama.
Davis’s father and grandfather were both musicians, and his uncle Cleo Davis was in Bill Monroe’s first Blue Grass Boys (1939).
The Warrior River Boys were originally formed in the mid-1950’s by Garry Thurmond. Due to his declining health, he turned the band over to 23-year-old Davis in 1984.
Davis plays mandolin and sings lead.
Band has included legendary musicians such as fiddler Charlie Cline and former bluegrass boy Tom Ewing.
1990, released New Beginnings album (Rounder).
1993, released Sounds Like Home album (Rounder).
2004, released David Davis & The Warrior River Boys album (Rebel Records).
2006, released Troubled Times album (Rebel).
2009, released Two Dimes & A Nickel album (Rebel).
2014, Davis was inducted into the National Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame.
2024, died at the age of 63 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Harrell, Michael Reno

Posted on November 30, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

MICHAEL RENO HARRELL

From East Tennessee (lives in North Carolina)
A successful songwriter: has had songs recorded by Doug Stone, Perfect Stranger, others.
Founding member of the Charlotte Americana Showcase.
He is also a well-known storyteller. He was featured at the National Storytelling Festival and was Teller In Residence at the International Storytelling Center.
He has performed at major music events like MerleFest and the Walnut Valley Festival.
His band is called No Angels.
Has released numerous albums including Ways to Travel (Rank) featuring Jerry Douglas, Stuart Duncan, Brent Truitt, Pat Flynn, other bluegrass musicians.

Barnes, Danny

Posted on November 1, 2013March 6, 2020 by WR

DANNY BARNES

See also THE BAD LIVERS.
From Temple, Texas (between Dallas and Austin). Now lives in Washington State (Seattle/Puget Sound).
A banjo virtuoso, he has worked as a sideman with the Dave Matthews Band, Mumford and Sons, Tim O’Brien, Robert Earl Keen and many others.
He is is also a licensed pilot, skateboarder, motorcyclist, flyfisher, unicyclist, trap shooter, and disc golfer.
2004, released Things I Done Wrong album (Terminus)
2005, released Get Myself Together (Terminus).
2010, released Pizza Box album (ATO).
2011, released Rocket album (ATO).
2014, played banjo on Robert Earl Keen’s album Happy Prisoner: The Bluegrass Sessions.
2015, toured with the Jeff Austin Band.
2015, won the Steve Martin prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass.
2015, released Got Myself Together album (Eight 30).
2017, released Stove Up album (Wendell), a tribute to Don Stover.
2019, formed a new band called Blind Ricky (playing bluegrass, jazz, blues, rock and other genres of music).
2020, released Man On Fire album (ATO).

Mattea, Kathy

Posted on December 17, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

KATHY MATTEA

From South Charleston, West Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
1976, while a student at WVU, she was a member of a bluegrass band called Pennsboro.
1978, moved to Nashville, got a job as tour guide at the Country Music Hall of Fame and did background vocals for Bobby Goldsboro and others.
1983, signed her first record deal and has since recorded seventeen albums (as of 2012) with more than thirty singles appearing on the Billboard Hot Country Singles charts including number one hits “Goin’ Gone”, “Where’ve You Been?” “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses”, “Come From the Heart” and “Burnin’ Old Memories.” She has had 12 number one singles.
1990, won Grammy for Best Female Vocal (“Where’ve You Been”)
1990, recorded “The Battle Hymn of Love,” a duet with Tim O’Brien which reached #9 on the country music charts (Billboard).
1992, had a hit with Larry Cordle’s composition “Lonesome Standard Time.”
1993. won Grammy for her Christmas album Good News in the Gospel category.
2008, recorded Coal, her first bluegrass/acoustic album.
2011, was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.

Senauke, Alan

Posted on December 30, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

ALAN SENAUKE

Guitarist and singer from Berkeley, California.
Former editor of the Folk Music magazine “Sing Out!”
1978, formed a duo with Howie Tarnower (mandolin) called the Fiction Brothers.
Former member of High Country.
1986, recorded a guitar duet album with Eric Thompson.
2001, joined a California band called The Bluegrass Intentions. Also performs with The Earls, the Aux Cajunals, and the Blue Flame Stringband.
2002, released solo project Wooden Man: Old Songs From The Southern School (no label).
He is a Zen Buddhist priest.

Barnett, Michael (Mike)

Posted on July 27, 2014November 17, 2023 by WR

MICHAEL BARNETT

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Learned to play violin at age 4.
At age 15, joined Jesse McReynolds and the Virginia Boys, playing fiddle. That same year, became the youngest instructor ever to teach at the Fiddle School at Vanderbilt University.
Moved to Massachusetts where he enrolled in the Berklee School of Music and worked with Northern Lights, Jonathan Edwards, Mike Gordon (of the rock band Phish), the David Grisman Sextet and Tony Trischka.
2011, formed (with Greg Liszt) the Deadly Gentlemen.
2014, released solo project One Song Romance on Compass Records.
2016, toured with the Bryan Sutton Band.
2017, joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder (replacing Andy Leftwich).
2017, released Portraits in Fiddles album (Compass).
2021, released +1 album (Compass).
2021, suffered a brain aneurism which has rendered him unable to play his fiddle.

Davis, Jason

Posted on November 19, 2013October 12, 2021 by WR

JASON DAVIS

From Ford, Virginia. Lives in Galax, Virginia.
Began playing banjo professionally while still in high school.
First bands: Michelle Nixon and Drive, Blue Ridge, Kenny and Amanda Smith.
2006, joined Grasstowne.
2007, released solo project “Steppin’ Out” (Pinecastle)
2010, joined Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice.
2013, released Second Time Around album (Mountain Fever).
2014, took a faculty position at East Tennessee State University, teaching banjo.
2018, formed new band called the Highland Travelers with Adam Steffey, Keith Garrett, Gary Hultman and Kameron Keller.
2020, joined the Dan Tyminski Band.

Mattingly, Jimmy

Posted on December 17, 2013August 20, 2024 by WR

JIMMY MATTINGLY

From Leitchfield, Kentucky.
1981, won the Grand Masters fiddle championship.
1981, joined Spectrum.
Early 80’s, worked with the Forrester Sisters and Steve Wariner.
1989-1993, worked with Dolly Parton.
1993, worked with the Osborne Brothers.
1995, played fiddle with Garth Brooks until Brook’s retirement from touring in 2001.
2002, worked again with Dolly Parton, the Sidemen, other artists.
2004, formed The Grascals with Terry Eldridge, David Talbot, Danny Roberts, Terry Smith and Jamie Johnson.
2008, left the Grascals to work with Reba McIntyre and Garth Brooks (again). He also does studio and production work.
2024, received the Dr. Perry F. Harris Distinguished Fiddler Award from the Grand Masters Fiddle Championship.

Serene Green

Posted on November 6, 2023November 6, 2023 by WR

SERENE GREEN

From Pennsylvania.
Formed in 2017 by Quentin Fisher (mandolin), Michael Johnson (guitar), Shane McGeehan (bass), and Steve Leonard (banjo).
They play traditional bluegrass along with their original material.
They have a band mascot — a dog named Watson.
2018, released Have At It album (Patuxent).
2023, released If It Wasn’t for Longing album (Patuxent).

Watson, Trevor

Posted on April 26, 2024April 26, 2024 by WR

TREVOR WATSON

From southwest Virginia.
Plays banjo with Shannon Slaughter.
After graduating from Virginia Tech, he became a cast member at the Carolina Opry (Myrtle Beach, South Carolina).
2003, joined Lou Reid and Carolina. He and Shannon Slaughter were bandmates for four years and have remained friends.
2018, filled in for Ben Eldridge in the Seldom Scene before he retired.
Has worked with Shannon Slaughter on tour and on his recordings.
2024, released solo project Out of the Shadows (no label).

Bartley Brothers, The (Rick and Shayne)

Posted on November 1, 2013December 28, 2021 by WR

THE BARTLEY BROTHERS (RICK AND SHAYNE)

From Georgetown, Kentucky.
Formed in 2010 by brothers Rick (banjo, mandolin, guitar) and Shayne (mandolin, guitar).
Rick has worked with the Cumberland Mountain Boys, Hobo Grass, Newground, and his own band Rick Bartley and Blackwater. He also recorded a solo project in 2003.
Shayne has worked with the Lost and Found, The Charlie Sizemore Band, Southern Blend, Unlimited Tradition, the Rarely Herd, Lexington, Karl Shiflett and Big Country Show, Lightning Strike and other bands.
2010, released Hit the Road album on Rural Rhythm Records.
2014, Shayne joined American Drive.
2016, Shayne teamed up with Greg Luck, Darren Beachley and David Carroll to form a new band called The Railroaders.
2018, Shayne joined David Parmley and Cardinal Tradition, playing mandolin.
2021, Shayne joined Fast Track (mandolin).

Ferguson, Gary

Posted on November 23, 2013July 23, 2024 by WR

GARY FERGUSON

From Sandy Springs, Maryland. Lives in Littlestown, Pennsylvania (near Gettysburg).
1980, performed in a Baltimore area band called Bittersweet.
Played in a rock band until his conversion to bluegrass in 1977 at the Union Grove Fiddler’s Convention.
During the Vietnam War, worked in an ammunition plant in Texarkana, Texas.
First bluegrass band: Snodgrass. Others: The Garris Brothers, Bittersweet, and Redwood (with banjo whiz Chris Warner).
1985, formed The Gary Ferguson Band.
Holds the distinction of being the only songwriter to reach the finals of the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at MerleFest five times.
1995, released I’m Really Leaving album (Webco/Pinecastle).
1997, his song “Last Day at Gettysburg” was recorded by Larry Sparks and spent a year on the Bluegrass Unlimited charts.
2000, formed a duo with vocalist Sally Love (who also is the former director of the Insect Zoo, appearing regularly as the “Bug Lady” on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Night with David Letterman.) In 2007, she joined Seneca Rocks, a new band with Dudley Connell (whom she married) and other former members of the Johnson Mountain Boys.
2004, formed a duo with 17-year-old guitar whiz Jordan Tice. Also sitting in with the Emory Lester Set and the Lonesome Road Band (Arkansas group.)
2009, formed an Irish group called “Ferguson, Holmes and Henry” with Janet Holmes and Colin Henry (of Belfast, Ireland.) He tours Ireland every Summer.
2014, released Songs of Mine album (no label).
2022, released Ferguson’s Farewell: The Irish Connection album (no label).
2023, released Distant Brothers album (no label) with Irish musician Colin Henry.

Wayfaring Strangers, The

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

THE WAYFARING STRANGERS

From the New York/New England area.
An eclectic group featuring Matt Glaser, Andy Statman, Tony Trischka, John McGann and Jim Whitney.
A “genre-bending group” combining elements of jazz, bluegrass, folk, Klezmer, Celtic and chamber music.
2001, released first album with guests Rhonda Vincent, Ralph Stanley, Tim O’Brien, Laurie Lewis, others.

Easter Brothers, The

Posted on November 21, 2013December 14, 2021 by WR

THE EASTER BROTHERS

From Mount Airy, North Carolina.
Formed in 1953 by brothers: James, Russell and Ed Easter.
One of the first full-time bluegrass gospel groups. Started out as the “The Green Valley Quartet” and later changed name to the Easter Brothers.
Made first recordings in 1961 for King Records. Carlton Haney arranged the session and the band included Don Reno, Allan Mills and Mac Magaha.
During the 1960’s they frequently appeared with Don Reno and Red Smiley.
1979, they became a full-time touring group.
James, Russell and Ed performed together for over 60 years, later joined by two of their sons, Jared and Russell, Jr.
James’ son Jeff married the daughter of Polly Lewis of the Lewis Family, bringing together the two “first families” of bluegrass gospel music. Jeff and Sheri Easter became one of the most popular acts in southern Gospel music.
2019, artist Tim White painted a large mural in downtown Mount Airy honoring the Easter Brothers.
2019, Ed died at age 84.
2020, Russell died at age 90.
2020, the Lonesome River Band recorded an album Singing Up There (Mountain Home), a tribute to the music of the Easter Brothers.
2021, James died at age 89.

Leach, Alex (The Alex Leach Band)

Posted on June 6, 2021April 1, 2024 by WR

THE ALEX LEACH BAND

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
Alex is not only a musician (he plays all the bluegrass instruments well) but he is also a bluegrass DJ on Knoxville radio station WDVX since he was only 9 years old.
2011, first professional job as a musician was with the Larry Gillis Band.
2012, joined Ralph Stanley II and the Clinch Mountain Boys, playing banjo.
2019, formed the Alex Leach Band. Members: Leach (guitar, lead vocals), his wife Miranda (vocals), Brandon Masur (banjo), Joshua Gooding (mandolin) and J.T. Coleman (bass).
2021, released I’m the Happiest When I’m Moving album (Mountain Home).
2023, disbanded his group and re-joined Ralph Stanley II and the Clinch Mountain Boys, playing banjo.

Ida Clare

Posted on March 20, 2023 by WR

IDA CLARE

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Formed in 2014 by Lea Cockrell (guitar/vocals) at her coffee shop, calling themselves “Total Strangers.” Other members: Robin Thixton (banjo), Jim Wheatley (Mandolin) and Mark Miller (Bass)
2017, they changed their name to Ida Clare.
Fun Fact: Lea Cockrell played in a band called New Horizon as a teenager in the early 80s. The banjo player for
that band was Murrell Thixton who would eventually meet and marry banjo player Robin Thixton who became the banjo player with Ida Clare.
2017, won first place at the inaugural band contest at the John Hartford Memorial Festival held in Bean Blossom, Indiana.
2018, released their first self titled album (no label).
2021, Nick Stevens (bass) joins the band. He owns Downtown Recording Studio in Louisville.
2023, released Ida Two album (no label).

Gentlemen of Bluegrass, The

Posted on February 20, 2014February 28, 2015 by WR

THE GENTLEMEN OF BLUEGRASS

From North Carolina.
Band members: Danny Stanley (lead vocals/guitar), Julian (JC) Rowland (mandolin), Tom Langdon (resonator guitar), Greg Penny (bass), and Randy Smith (banjo).
They pattern their sound after The Classic Country Gentlemen and the Seldom Scene.
Guitarist Stanley has a comedic alter-ego “Hobo Joe.” He also does impressions of Lester Flatt, Mac Wiseman, Jim Reeves, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and other singers. He previously worked with a gospel group called Carolina Sonshine.
Reso guitarist Langdon is married to Lorraine Jordan (of Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road.)
They sometimes make appearances with former Country Gentlemen Eddie Adcock and Tom Gray.
2014, released Carolina Memories album (Pinecastle Records).

Fescue

Posted on November 23, 2013 by WR

FESCUE

From Marian (Smyth County), Virginia.
Formed in 1980 by “Fat Albert” Blackburn (plays bass).
Fescue is a very resilient type of grass. Hence the name.
Other band members: Mike Goodman (banjo), Garnet Lester (guitar), Raymond Campbell (mandolin), Jordan Blevins (fiddle).
1997, 2000, won first place at Galax Old Time Fiddler’s Convention band contest.
2002, released “Now and Again” album on Eastwood label.
2004, released “Railroad in My Mind” album on Eastwood label.

Davis, Hubert (and the Season Travelers)

Posted on November 18, 2013 by WR

HUBERT DAVIS (AND THE SEASON TRAVELERS)

From Shelby, North Carolina (same hometown as Earl Scruggs; they grew up together.)
Former banjo player for Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys.
Originally learned to play banjo left-handed; then switched to become one of the best right-handed pickers of his generation.
Until his death in 1992, he performed with his band The Season Travelers at his own bluegrass night club in Nashville called “The Bluegrass Inn”.

Maul, Kevin

Posted on December 12, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

KEVIN MAUL

From Round Lake, New York.
1990-2000, played Dobro™ with Robin and Linda Williams as part of their “Fine Group.”
Previously played in a Massachusetts band with Joe Perry of Aerosmith called “P-town Jug Band.”
Has worked with Chet Atkins, Johnny Gimbel, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Vince Gill.
2002, released solo project Toolshed (Mandala).
2004, joined the Burns Sisters band.

Bashful Brother Oswald

Posted on November 1, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

BASHFUL BROTHER OSWALD

Born and raised in Sevierville, Tennessee (Great Smoky Mountains). Lived in Madison, Tennessee most of his professional life.
Real name: Beecher Ray Kirby. He also went by the name Pete Kirby.
He was a longtime member of Roy Acuff’s Smokey Mountain Boys (1934-1992).
He is best known for introducing the resophonic guitar (Dobro™) to country music. He also plays clawhammer banjo.
The nickname “Bashful Brother Oswald” was given to him by Acuff when he added a young unmarried woman named Rachel Veach to his band. Oswald pretended to be her brother, making her presence in the group acceptable to conservative audiences. To fit his name, Kirby created the clownish Oswald character, wearing a floppy, wide-brimmed hat, tattered bib overalls, over-sized work shoes and adopting a braying laugh.
After Acuff’s death, he was made a member of the Grand Ole Opry (1994) and continued to perform as a solo artist.
1994, appeared on The Great Dobro Sessions album, featuring other musicians like Mike Auldridge, Jerry Douglas, Josh Graves, Rob Ickes, Tut Taylor and Gene Wooten.
He died in 2002 at the age of 90.

Chapmans, The

Posted on November 10, 2013December 26, 2020 by WR

THE CHAPMANS

From Springfield, Missouri. (Originally from Denver, Colorado)
Formed in 1989 by Bill and Patti Chapman (dad and mom) and three sons, John, Jeremy and Jason.
1994, moved to Missouri and were regulars at Silver Dollar City, near Branson.
1998, won the SPBGMA International Bluegrass Band Championship in Nashville.
1999, released Notes From Home album (Pinecastle).
2001, released Follow Me album (Pinecastle).
2002, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2005, released Simple Man album (Pinecastle).
They created on online TV program called “Chap TV.”
2010, released Grown Up (A Revisionist History) album on Compass Records.
They currently own and operate a music store called The Acoustic Shoppe in Springfield, Missouri.

Jett’s Creek

Posted on December 1, 2013March 23, 2024 by WR

JETT’S CREEK

From Lebanon, Ohio.
A family band featuring Adam McIntosh (guitar) and his sister Angie Young (vocals) and their father Jon McIntosh (guitar). Other members of the band (at various times): Brad Jessmer (banjo), Tim Hale (banjo), Pearl Bradley (mandolin), Wayne Haddock (mandolin) and Jeff Byrd (bass).
Adam McIntosh is also a member of Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers, playing guitar. He is a former member of the Dry Branch Fire Squad.
2008, released “Supposed to Be” album.
2010, released Guilty album (no label).
2013, released The Wait Is Over album (Mountain Fever).
2015, banjo player Tim Hale died, as did former mandolin player Pearl Bradley.

Bass Mountain Boys

Posted on November 2, 2013December 15, 2018 by WR

THE BASS MOUNTAIN BOYS

From Burlington, North Carolina.
Formed in 1974.
Band members: Mike Wilson (guitar), Mike Aldridge (mandolin), Mike Street (bass), Johnny Ridge (fiddle, guitar) and Steve Dilling (banjo, guitar). Jim Mills also played banjo with this group.
1980, released “Bass Mountain Style” album (Outlet).
1982, released “Wood and Stone” album (Outlet).
1983, released “I’ll Sing for My Lord” album (Outlet).
1985, released “Rollin'” album (Atteiram).
1987, released “All Together Now” album (Atteiram).
1989, released 18 Wheels album (CMH).
1990, released A Beautiful Life album (CMH).
1991, released “Fiddlin’ with Tradition” album (no label).
1992, released Carolina Calling Me album (Pinecastle).
1994, released Love of a Woman album (Pinecastle).
1995, released My God Made It All album (Pinecastle).
They released several albums including “Carolina Calling Me,” “Love of a Woman,” “My God Made It All” and “A Beautiful Life.
For many years they hosted two bluegrass festivals each year on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend at Bass Mountain Music Park in Burlington (owned by former bass player, John Maness).
Disbanded in 1996.
2008, they did a reunion performance

Reeltime Travelers, The

Posted on December 23, 2013 by WR

THE REELTIME TRAVELERS

From Johnson City, Tennessee.
Formed in 1999.
Name: they play old-time (string band) music in a “real time” (modern) context.
Members: Thomas Sneed (mandolin), Martha Scanlan (guitar), Roy Andrade (banjo), Heidi Andrade (fiddle), Brandon Story (bass).
2002, performed on the Down From the Mountain tour.
2003, performed on the soundtrack to the movie “Cold Mountain.”

Sewell, Keith

Posted on December 30, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

KEITH SEWELL

From Duncanville, Texas.
Began playing fiddle at age 3. Also plays banjo and mandolin, but is best known as a guitarist and songwriter.
Early years, played with his grandfather’s band, “The Shady Grove Ramblers” (Texas).
Moved to Nashville shortly after high school. Has worked with James Taylor, the Dixie Chicks, Earl Scruggs, Marty Stuart and Ricky Skaggs (he played in Ricky’s country band at age 19.)
His songs have been recorded by Montgomery Gentry, Steve Wariner, Alison Krauss, BR-549, Ricky Skaggs (“Brand New Strings”), other country and bluegrass artists.
2002, toured with the Dixie Chicks (performed on their “Top of the World” Tour).
2004, joined Jerry Douglas’ band, playing guitar.
2006, joined the Sam Bush band, playing guitar.
2006, released solo album Love Is a Journey (Skaggs Family).
2007, toured with Lyle Lovett.

We Banjo 3

Posted on August 23, 2019November 10, 2022 by WR

WE BANJO 3

From Galway, Ireland.
Formed in 2011 by two sets of brothers: Enda Scahil (banjo) and Fergal Scahil (banjo, fiddle, viola, dobro, percussion, guitar, mandolin); and brothers Martin Howley (banjo, mandolin) and David Howley (lead vocals, guitar).
They call their music “Celtgrass.”
Their name comes from the fact that there are three banjo players in the band.
Collectively, they have won numerous All-Ireland music awards: Martin holding 7, Enda with 4, while Fergal and David hold All Ireland titles on Banjo, Fiddle, Bodhran and Guitar.
2012, released Roots of the Banjo Tree album (no label).
2014, released Gather the Good album (no label).
2015, released Live in Galway album (no label).
2016, released Happiness album (no label).
2016, released String Theory album (no label).
2016, performed for President Barack Obama in Washington D.C.
2018, released Haven album (no label).
2019, released Roots to Rise Live (no label), recorded live at the Ark in Ann Arbor, Michigan USA.
2022, tenor banjo player Enda Scahill was awarded the Steve Martin Banjo Prize.

Yeary, Jimmy

Posted on April 25, 2022 by WR

JIMMY YEARY

From Hillsboro, Ohio; lives in Nashville.
1994, moved to Nashville after signing a record deal with Atlantic Records in 1994 but due to changes at the label, his single was never released. He has made a name himself primarily as a songwriter, penning #1 country hits for such artists as George Strait, Rascal Flatts, Joe Diffie and others.
2007-2011, he was the lead singer for country group Shenandoah.
2009, married Sonya Isaacs of the Isaacs.
2021, began releasing bluegrass music (several singles) for RBR Entertainment.

Fields, Monroe

Posted on February 26, 2015 by WR

MONROE FIELDS

From Berry, Alabama
1953-1963, played mandolin with Carl Sauceman and the Green Valley Boys.
1964, played bass with Jim and Jesse.
1971-1973, played bass with Bill Monroe and sang lead on Monroe’s recording of “My Old Kentucky and You.”
He has also worked at various times with Flatt & Scruggs, Jimmy Martin, Charlie Louvin,
He was also a prolific songwriter. His “Please Be My Love” was recorded by Jim and Jesse and also by George Jones and Melba Montgomery.
2014, released Monroe Fields with the Green Valley Boys: 1950s-60s Broadcasts(Patuxent Records).
He died in 2015.

McAvinue, Patrick

Posted on December 12, 2013May 19, 2023 by WR

PATRICK MCAVINUE

From Hereford, Maryland.
Began playing fiddle at age 7.
At age 12, formed first band “The Salem Bottom Boys.”
Won the Delaware State Fiddle Championship.
2006-2016, worked with Audie Blaylock and Redline.
2007, released first solo project Grave Run (Patuxent).
2009, released Rutland’s Reel album (Patuxent).
2014, formed a hybrid band called Charm City Junction with Brad Kolodner (banjo), Sean Comiskey (accordian) and Alex Lacquement (bass). Charm City is a nickname for Baltimore.
2016, accepted position as Artist-in-Residence at the Strathmore Arts Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
2016, joined Dailey & Vincent.
2017, won the IBMA Award for Fiddle Player of the Year.
2019, released Perfect Fit album (no label).
2020, joined the U.S. Navy, playing fiddle for Country Current.
2023, released Fortis album (no label).

Charm City Junction

Posted on January 7, 2016February 3, 2024 by WR

CHARM CITY JUNCTION

From Baltimore, Maryland. Baltimore’s nickname is “Charm City.”
The band consists of a bluegrass fiddler, an old time banjo picker, a Celtic accordionist, and a jazz bassist.
Members: Patrick McAvenue (fiddle), Brad Kolodner (banjo), Sean McComskey (accordian) and Alex Lacquement (bass).
Their music is a hybrid of Irish and old-time music.
2016, released self-titled album (Patuxent).
2018, released Duckpin album (no label).
2019, released Christmas album Snowball (no label).
2024, released Salt Box album (Fenchurch).

Leadbetter, Phil

Posted on December 5, 2013October 15, 2021 by WR

PHIL LEADBETTER

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
One of the top Dobro™ players in bluegrass. He was widely known as “Uncle Phil.”
At age 14, performed before President Gerald R. Ford at the White House (1976).
His father played in a band with Bashful Brother Oswald (of the Grand Ole Opry).
Worked as an Intensive Care (ICU) nurse for 12 years.
1975-1981, formed a band called the Knoxville Newgrass Boys.
1982, formed another Knoxville group called New Dawn.
1988-89, worked with Grandpa Jones.
1990, worked with Vern Gosdin.
1991, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South.
1999, released Philibuster album (Rounder).
2000, formed Wildfire with several other members of the New South.
2004, Gibson released “The Phil Leadbetter Signature Gibson Dobro™.”
His son Matt is also a Dobro™ player who has worked with the Lonesome River Band, Valerie Smith, Marty Raybon, Brand New Strings and other bands.
2005, won the IBMA award for Dobro™ Player of the Year.
2005, released Slide Effects album (Pinecastle) which won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Album of the Year.
2006, left WildFire to form Grasstowne with Steve Gulley (formerly with Mountain Heart) and Alan Bibey (formerly of BlueRidge).
2010, left Grasstowne to form a new band called Rigsby, Leadbetter and Bennett, with Don Rigsby on mandolin, Richard Bennett on guitar and his son Matt playing bass.
2010, joined The Whites.
2011, was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma (a form of cancer) which required Phil to take two years off the road for treatment.
2013, joined the Dale Ann Bradley band.
2014, released solo project The Next Move with guest artists Joe Diffie, Shawn Camp, Sam Bush, John Cowan, Steve Wariner, Marty Raybon, Bela Fleck, Jerry Douglas, and others.
2015, was inducted into the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame.
2016, left the Dale Ann Bradley band.
2016, formed Flashback, with Richard Bennett, Don Rigsby, Curt Chapman & Stuart Wyrick.
2016, formed Phil Leadbetter And The All-Stars Of Bluegrass.
2017, became the talent buyer for The Bill Monroe Music Park which includes the Beanblossom Bluegrass festival, and The Hall Of Fame Uncle Pen Days Festival.
2019, won his third IBMA Award for Dobro Player of the Year (also won in 2005, 2014).
2019, underwent more treatments for a recurrence of cancer. He is a five-time cancer survivor.
2019, formed an ensemble called The All-Stars of Bluegrass and recorded Swing for the Fences album (Pinecastle). Members include (at various times) Steve Gulley, Dale Ann Bradley, Claire Lynch, Robert Hale, Shawn Camp, Ken Mellons, Paul Brewster, Amanda Smith, Kenny Smith, Sierra Hull, Mike Bub, Missy Raines, Alan Bibey, Jason Burleson, Adam Haynes, Steve Thomas, Gena Britt and Matt Leadbetter.
2021, died at the age of 59.

Idletymes

Posted on November 30, 2013October 29, 2015 by WR

IDLETYMES

From Pt. Pleasant, West Virginia.
Formed in 1985.
Band members: Chris Long (guitar), Craig Jarvis (bass), Ron Seebaugh (banjo), Glenn Jarvis (fiddle), Bruce Jones (Dobro™) and Dustin Frame (mandolin).
They host two bluegrass festivals each year: The Poston Lake Bluegrass Festival in Guysville, Ohio, and the Blluegrass Winterfest in Ripley, West Virginia.
2009, released Another Tyme album (no label).
2011, released Tyme for Him album (no label).
2011, released Life & Tymes album (no label).
2013, released “Poor Mountain Home” album on Poor Mountain Records.

Sexton, Chris

Posted on December 30, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

CHRIS SEXTON

From Manassas, Virginia.
Graduated from Shenandoah University in Winchester, VA with a degree in music performance.
Plays classical violin (in orchestras) as well as fiddle.
As a teen, was a member of his father’s group The East Coast Bluegrass Band.
2000, joined Nothin’ Fancy.
2005, released solo project Coffee at Midnight (Pinecastle).
2013, became a professor of violin and viola at Northern Virginia Community College.

Tennessee Mafia Jug Band, The

Posted on January 1, 2014December 31, 2015 by WR

THE TENNESSEE MAFIA JUG BAND

From Goodlettsville, Tennessee.
An old-time/country/comedy string band formed by Lester and Mike Armistead (father/son), Leroy Troy and Kent Blanton.
They performed frequently at the Grand Ole Opry, often with Marty Stuart.
2003, recorded first album Barnyard Frolic (Spring Fed).
2011, released Poor Leroy’s Almanac album (Spring Fed).
2012, released Screams From The Holler album (Spring Fed).
2013, released Tales From Short Mountain album (Spring Fed).
2014, Lester Armistead died at the age of 71.

McCall, Dwight

Posted on December 12, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

DWIGHT MCCALL

From Cincinnati, Ohio (born in Maryland).
Began playing mandolin as a teenager.
First pro job: Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass.
1992-1995, had a band called Union Springs.
1995, worked with Charlie Waller and the Country Gentlemen.
1996, joined J. D. Crowe and the New South.
1999, released first solo project “Kentucky Peace of Mind” (no label).
2007, released Never Say Never Again album (Rural Rhythm).
2012, formed American Drive with other former members of J.D. Crowe and the New South (after Crowe retired).

Weary Hearts

Posted on January 6, 2014May 28, 2021 by WR

WEARY HEARTS

From Arizona.
Formed in 1985 by Ron Block (banjo), Eric Uglum (guitar/mandolin), Butch Baldassari (mandolin) and Mike Bub (bass). In 1988, Chris Jones (guitar) replaced Uglum.
1987, released “Faith Is the Answer” album (Cactus).
1989, released By Heart album (Flying Fish).
Moved to Nashville in 1989, but disbanded shortly thereafter.
2003, Block, Bub, Baldassari and Jones reunited for several Weary Hearts performances.
Where are they now? Ron Block has been working with Alison Krauss since 1992, Mike Bub has worked with numerous Nashville bands, including a thirteen-year stint with Del McCoury (winning IBMA’s Bass Player of the Year award five times), Butch Baldassari formed the Nashville Mandolin Ensemble (and passed away from brain cancer in 2009), Chris Jones worked with Special Consensus, Lynn Morris and formed his own band The Night Drivers. He also is a DJ for Sirius/XM satellite radio and writes a humor column for Bluegrass Today. Eric Uglum has a recording studio in Southern California and has been a member of several bands including Copperline, Lost Highway and the Vintage Martins.

Adams, Tom

Posted on October 28, 2013November 1, 2021 by WR

TOM ADAMS

From Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. A civil war buff, he lives in a pre-civil war house.
As a teen, played in a family band called “The Adams Brothers and Dad” (played mandolin).
1980, had a band called Tom Adams and the Double Eagle Band with Chris Warner on mandolin/banjo. Tom also played guitar in that band.
1983-1985, played banjo with Jimmy Martin and the Sunny Mountain Boys.
1985, managed a Domino’s Pizza in Nashville.
1986-1995, joined The Johnson Mountain Boys.
1988-1991, joined The Lynn Morris Band.
1992, The Johnson Mountain Boys (reunion).
1993, worked with Tony Trischka and Tony Furtado as “The Rounder Banjo Extravaganza.”
1992, 1993, 2002, won IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year.
1998, joined Blue Highway.
2000, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2001, joined Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek. Also teaches banjo, guitar and mandolin.
2002, developed a neurological disorder called “focal dystonia” which affected the middle finger of his right hand and his ability to play the banjo.
2004, won IBMA Award for Instrumental Album of the Year (“Live at the Ragged Edge” with Michael Cleveland).
2006, formed new band “Seneca Rocks” with Dudley Connell, David McLaughlin, Sally Love and Marshall Wilborn.
2008, teamed up with banjo player Chris Warner to form “Chris Warner and Diamond Joe” (guitar and lead vocals)
2008, joined Bill Emerson’s “Sweet Dixie” band (guitar and lead vocals).
2009, joined Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper (guitar and lead vocals).
2011, left Michael Cleveland’s band.
Currently teaches banjo lessons full time to students all over the world (using Skype). Also plays with Springfield Exit.
2013, won an IBMA Award for Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year (for “Foggy Mountain Rock” from the album Foggy Mountain Special: A Bluegrass Tribute to Earl Scruggs.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS BY TOM ADAMS:

Right Hand Man (Rounder, 1992)
Adams County Banjo (Rounder, 2001)
Live at the Ragged Edge (Rounder, 2009) This album features Tom (banjo) with fiddle player Michael Cleveland.

Petticoat Junction

Posted on December 22, 2013December 23, 2015 by WR

PETTICOAT JUNCTION

From Nashville, Tennessee.
An all-female band formed in 1988 by Andrea Campbell (Roberts) who had previously worked with Wendy Smith and Blue Velvet, a Detroit-based band.
Other members of the band: Robin Roller (banjo), Gail Rudisill (fiddle) and Gena Britt (bass).
The group recorded three albums for Pinecastle Records.
Several members of Petticoat Junction, past and present, attended South Plains College in Levelland, Texas—at the time, the only college offering a degree in bluegrass music.
1998, the group disbanded and bandleader Roberts joined Special Consensus. She later formed a talent agency in Nashville.

Baucom, Terry

Posted on November 2, 2013December 11, 2023 by WR

TERRY BAUCOM (AND THE DUKES OF DRIVE)

From Monroe, North Carolina.
He is known as one of the top Scruggs-style banjo players in bluegrass music. He became known as “The Duke of Drive,” a reference to his ability to “drive” or push a song with his steady banjo picking.
1963, began playing banjo at age ten. Performed with his father’s group The Rocky River Boys.
1967, learned to play the fiddle at age 14.
1970, got his first professional job, playing fiddle with Charlie Moore (three years.)
1976, joined Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas and Wes Golding to form “Boone Creek.”
1979, was a founding member of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1985, formed The New Quicksilver with Randy Graham, Alan Bibey and Jimmy Haley. This group later became known as Baucom, Bibey, Graham and Haley.
1991, was a founding member of IIIrd Tyme Out.
1992, with Lou Reid formed “Lou Reid, Terry Baucom and Carolina.”
1996, left the road to freelance and teach music in the Charlotte, NC area.
1998, formed BlueRidge (a re-united New Quicksilver).
2001, formed Baucom, Bibey and BlueRidge.
2003, re-joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
2007, left Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver to pursue “banjo-focused opportunities,” including teaching and producing instructional DVD’s.
2008, worked with the Mark Newton Band and the Kenny & Amanda Smith Band.
2009,worked with Dale Ann Bradley, the Mashville Brigade and Mountain Heart.
2011, released first solo project In a Groove (Kneedeep).
2013, released solo project Never Thought of Looking Back (John Boy and Billy).
2013, won IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year (for “What’ll I Do” featuring Sam Bush, Buddy Melton and others).
2014, formed his own band The Dukes of Drive.
2015, was inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame (Wilkesboro, North Carolina).
2017, released song Fourth and Goal (John Boy and Billy) and was invited to perform during induction ceremonies for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
2020, released Fine Time to Get the Blues album (Drivin’ Duke).
2023, announced his retirement from touring and performing music full time.
2023, received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA for his contributions to bluegrass music.
2023, died at the age of 71.
2023, was posthumously awarded the Steve Martin Banjo Prize.

Tew, Keith

Posted on January 1, 2014February 12, 2015 by WR

KEITH TEW (THE TEWS)

From Hialeah, Florida. Moved to Nashville in 1998.
Keith formerly performed with the Florida-based band, Highstrung. Also performed at Disney World with a group called The Big Thunder Mountain Boys.
Keith’s first band: The Bluegrass Little Bits (at age 12).
1996, married Danette and formed a duo. She is a singer/songwrite with a successful country album to her credit. She also works for Gaylord Entertainment (producers of the Grand Ole Opry).
Before moving to Nashville, Keith drove a truck for 14 years.
Keith and Danette wrote the song “Am I A Fool,” a hit for The Lonesome River Band.
1999, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2014, joined The Farm Hands Quartet.

Gibson Brothers, The

Posted on November 27, 2013September 30, 2017 by WR

THE GIBSON BROTHERS

From Ellenburg Depot, New York (in the Champlain Valley, upstate New York.)
Eric (banjo) and Leigh (guitar) Gibson formed their band in 1991. Eric is the older of the two by eleven months.
Their family tree includes Orville Gibson, founder of the musical instrument company, who is from the same area.
Before going full-time with the band, Leigh was a dairy farmer and Eric was a school teacher.
1998, won IBMA award for “Emerging Artist of the Year.”
1998, signed with Ceili Records, moved to Nashville and began performing and recording more country-oriented material. But in their own words, they were “too country for country.”
2002, returned to bluegrass with the release of Bona Fide (Sugar Hill Records.)
2004, released Long Way Back Home album (Sugar Hill).
2006, released Red Letter Day album (Sugar Hill).
2008, released Iron and Diamonds album (Sugar Hill).
2009, released Ring the Bell album (Compass Records).
2010, won IBMA awards for Song of the Year and Gospel Recorded Performane of the Year for “Ring the Bell.”
2011, released Help My Brother album (Compass).
2011, won IBMA awards for Vocal Group of the Year and Album of the Year (for “Help My Brother”)
2012, won IBMA awards for Entertainer of the Year and Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year (for “Singing As We Rise”)
2012, released They Called It Music album (Compass).
2013, won IBMA awards for Entertainer of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year and Song of the Year (for “They Called It Music.”)
2015, released Brotherhood album (Rounder), a salute to brother duets of the past.
2015, Eric and Leigh Gibson were both awarded honorary doctorates (Doctor of Fine Arts) from the State University of New York. They had previously earned their bachelor’s degrees at SUNY (Plattsburgh, NY).
2017, released In the Ground album (Rounder).
2017, won IBMA Award for “Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year” (for their song “I Found a Church Today.”)

Gibson, Glenn

Posted on November 27, 2013 by WR

GLENN GIBSON

From Louisville, Kentucky
Has played Dobro™ with Gary Brewer, Karl Shifflett, Dale Ann Bradley, Michael Cleveland. Has also spent time playing with Louisville-area bands “Cast Iron Airplane” and the “Corn Island Band.”
Took time off from music during the 1990’s to attend Bible College and go into full-time ministry.
2007, joined Marty Raybon and Full Circle.
2010, joined the Charlie Sizemore band.
2011, released solo project “When Times Are Hard” with guests Michael Cleveland, Jesse Brock and Daniel Grindstaff.

Harrell, Mitch

Posted on November 30, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

MITCH HARRELL

Lives in Annapolis, Maryland.
Son of bluegrass pioneer Bill Harrell.
For many years, he played guitar and sang tenor in his father’s band, the Virginians.
Was first artist signed by Pinecastle Records. According to Pinecastle “Mitch is the reason for Pinecastle’s existence.” In 1990, Tom Riggs, a bluegrass radio personality and promoter from Florida, was so impressed with Mitch’s talent that he decided to start a record company.
2000, formed his own band (South River Express) and his own record label.
2013, teamed up with Dale and Don Wayne Reno to form Reno and Harrell, a second generation edition of the original band featuring their fathers, Don Reno and Bill Harrell.

McCoury, Del

Posted on December 12, 2013September 16, 2024 by WR

DEL MCCOURY (THE DEL MCCOURY BAND)

From York, Pennsylvania. Currently lives in Nashville.
Began playing banjo at age 14.
1963, played banjo with a Baltimore group, The Virginia Playboys.
1963-1964, worked with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys. Hired by Monroe to play guitar and sing lead (even though he didn’t own a guitar).
1964, moved to California to join The Golden State Boys with Vern Gosdin and Don Parmley; also worked with another California band, The Shady Valley Boys.
After California, moved back to North Carolina and worked in his father’s sawmill.
1967, formed The Dixie Pals.
1983, changed his band name to the Del McCoury Band. His song Ronnie joined the band playing mandolin.
1985, recorded first album (self-titled).
1987, his son Robbie joined the band on banjo. First album with this version of the band was Don’t Stop the Music (Rounder).
1992, moved to Nashville.
1996, won his fourth IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year (also won in 1990, 1991, 1992).
1997-8, toured and recorded with country singer Steve Earle. They did one album together called Mountain.
1998, appeared on CBS-TV special called “To Life: America Celebrates Israel’s 50th.” They played with a Klezmer band to show the similarities between traditional American music and traditional Israeli music. Also on the program: Stevie Wonder, Harry Connick, Jr., Natalie Cole, Michael Douglas, Kevin Costner.
1998, recorded with Doc Watson and Mac Wiseman as the “GrooveGrass Boyz.”
2001-2, toured with the “Down from the Mountain” tour.
2002, won the IBMA award for Song of the Year (“1952 Vincent Black Lightning”)
2003, after a national tour with Leftover Salmon, his newly acquired fans became known as “DelHeads.”
2003, was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.
2004, won his ninth IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year (he also won in 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003).
2006, Del began doing a weekly show on Sirius Satellite Radio called “Hand Picked.”
2008, he began producing his own music festival called DelFest.
2009, his band members formed a progressive group called The Traveling McCoury’s.
2011, collaborated with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band for an album called American Legacies and several concert appearances.
2013, a stretch of Highway 261 in Mitchell County North Carolina (north of Bakersville) was named “The Del McCoury Highway.”
2019, won the IBMA Award for Album of the Year (“Del McCoury Still Sings Bluegrass”).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Don’t Stop the Music (Rounder, 1990)
Classic Bluegrass (Rebel, 1991)
Livin on the Mountain (Rebel, 1992)
The Blue Side of Town (Rounder, 1992)
A Deeper Shade of Blue (Rounder, 1993)
Cold Hard Facts (Rounder, 1996)
The Family (Ceili Music, 1999)
Del and the Boys (Ceili Music, 2001) Includes Song of the Year “1952 Vincent Black Lightning.”
High Lonesome & Blues (Rounder, 2004)
It’s Just the Night (McCoury Music, 2003) 2004, won IBMA Award for Album of the Year.
The Company We Keep (McCoury Music, 2005) 2006, won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album.
The Promised Land (McCoury Music, 2006)
Moneyland (McCoury Music, 2008) Songs about the Great Depression and other songs about greed and poverty.
By Request (McCoury Music, 2009)
Family Circle (McCoury Music, 2009)
Old Memories: The Songs of Bill Monroe (McCoury Music, 2012)
Streets of Baltimore (McCoury Music, 2013) 2014 winner of the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album.
Del and Woody (McCoury Music, 2016) A tribute to the songs of Woody Guthrie.
Del McCoury Still Sings Bluegrass (McCoury Music 2018). A tribute to his first album “Del McCoury Sings Bluegrass” which was recorded 50 years earlier). Won the IBMA Award for Album of the Year.

Adcock, Eddie (and Martha)

Posted on October 28, 2013December 3, 2018 by WR

EDDIE (AND MARTHA) ADCOCK

From Scottsville, Virginia. Lives in Lebanon, Tennessee.
Full name: Edward Windsor Adcock.
A member of the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (inducted in 1996 as a member of the classic Country Gentlemen.)
Considered one of the pioneers of “new acoustic music” or “newgrass,” a fusion of bluegrass with jazz and other non-traditional styles.
He is a master auto mechanic, drag racer, inventor, and former boxer.
Eddie and Martha have been called “The Sonny & Cher of Bluegrass.”
Eddie and Martha call their music “twograss.”
1954, first pro job, working for Smokey Graves and the Blue Star Boys.
1956, worked with Mac Wiseman.
1958, worked with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1959, joined the Country Gentlemen and became part of the “classic” band which was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
1970, left the Country Gentlemen. Moved to California, grew his hair long and played rock music under the pseudonym “Clinton Codack” (anagram of ‘Adcock’).
1971, formed band with Jimmy Gaudreau called the II (also spelled Second or IInd) Generation.
1973, met Martha Hearon (guitar) who became a member of II Generation.
1976, Eddie & Martha marry and became a duo act. They also had a band for a time, playing original country rock and fusion bluegrass.
1978, Eddie invented the “Gitbo”, a double-neck combination electric guitar and electrified acoustic banjo.
1984, 1985, Eddie and Martha toured with country singer David Allan Coe.
1985, Adcocks formed Talk Of The Town with Missy Raines. This eventually became The Eddie Adcock Band.
1990, 1991, performed with The Masters featuring Eddie on banjo and guitar, Jesse McReynolds on mandolin, Josh Graves on Dobro™, and Kenny Baker on fiddle.
1991, released “Dixie Fried” album by The Eddie Adcock Band (CMH).
1992, released a duet album with Don Reno “Sensational Two Banjos” (Rebel).
1994, released “Talk to Your Heart” album by the Eddie Adcock Band (CMH).
1996, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame (along with Charlie Waller, John Duffey and Tom Gray) as as a member of the Classic Country Gentlemen.
1998, Eddie and Martha released “Spirited” album (Pinecastle).
2004, had triple heart-bypass surgery.
2008 (and twice in 2011) had brain surgery to correct a tremor in his right hand which prevented him from playing the banjo. The surgery, known as “Deep Brain Stimulation,” was done while he was still awake and played the banjo to help the surgeons know when they had reached the part of his brain which controlled his hand. The story of this first-of-its-kind procedure was carried in many international newspapers and TV broadcasts, including ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
2009, Eddie and Martha organized an annual “Christmas Bluegrass Benefit Concert for the Homeless” at Nashville’s Station Inn.
2011, former Country Gentlemen bass player Tom Gray teamed up with Eddie and Martha to record an album titled Many A Mile.
2014, Eddie was presented with the $50,000 Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass Music.
2015, Eddie and Martha were involved in a serious auto accident in their home town of Lebanon, Tennessee. While suffering numerous injuries, they are expected to recover fully.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Renaissance Man (Pinecastle, 1996) Eddie’s signature album.
Twograss (Pinecastle, 2003) Eddie and Martha at their best.
Many a Mile (Patuxent, 2011) with Tom Gray and Friends.

Reid, Lou

Posted on December 23, 2013July 4, 2020 by WR

LOU REID (AND CAROLINA)

Born on a tobacco farm in Moore Springs, North Carolina.
Real last name: Pyrtle.
Birthday: September 13—same as Bill Monroe’s.
Began playing guitar at age seven.
Early 1970’s, had a band called The Bluegrass Buddies.
1973-1979, played banjo with an Atlanta band called Southbound.
1979, was a founding member of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1982-1986, was a member of the Ricky Skaggs Band.
1986-1992, was lead singer and guitarist with The Seldom Scene.
1991, released solo project When It Rains (Sugar Hill).
1992, tried forming his own band, then worked briefly with Vince Gill and IIIrd Tyme Out.
1992, formed Carolina with banjo player Terry Baucom. They recorded two albums as Lou Reid, Terry Baucom and Carolina.
1996, released Lou Reid & Carolina album (Rebel).
1997, returned to the Seldom Scene (replacing the late John Duffey).
1998, re-formed Carolina (while continuing to perform with the Seldom Scene). He has continued to perform and record as Lou Reid and Carolina.
2000, released Blue Heartache album (Rebel).
2004, released Carolina, I’m Coming Home album (no label).
2005, released Time album (Lonesome Day).
2008, recorded and performed with Longview.
2009, released My Own Set of Rules album (Rural Rhythm).
2010, released Sounds Like Heaven to Me album (Rural Rhythm).
2012, released Callin Me Back Home album (KMA).
2013, released Live at the Down Home 20th Anniversary Concert album (KMA).

Ulisse, Donna

Posted on January 2, 2014May 31, 2020 by WR

DONNA ULISSE

From Hampton, Virginia
Name is pronounced “You-liss-ee.”
Began singing at age 3 by wandering onstage with a bluegrass band at a family Bar-B-Q
Married to Rick Stanley, a cousin of Ralph and Carter. Ralph and the Clinch Mountain Boys performed at her wedding reception. Rick Stanley had his own band called Bad Ridge.
1980, moved to Nashville and began working as a background session singer. Her first harmony session was on a Jerry Reed album.
1991, signed by Atlantic Records. Released country album Trouble at the Door,
Appeared on CMT “Hot Country Nights,” “Nashville Now,” “Hee Haw.”
2007, released her first bluegrass album When I Look Back (Hadley Music Group) featuring her original songs. Produced by Keith Sewell.
2009, released Walk This Mountain Down album(Hadley Music Group). Produced by Keith Sewell
2010, released gospel album Holy Waters (Hadley Music Group) featuring twelve original songs and one Carter Stanley song. Produced by Keith Sewell
2011, released An Easy Climb album (Hadley Music Group) featuring her original songs. Produced by Keith Sewell.
2012, released I Am A Child Of God album (Hadley Music Group).
2013, released All The Way To Bethlehem album(Hadley Music Group), the story of Christmas in original songs.
2013, released Showin’ My Roots album (Hadley Music Group).
2014, authored a book about her songwriting career titled The Songwriter in Me:Snapshots of My Creative Process (published by Hadley Music Group).
2015, released companion CD The Songwriter In Me:The Demo Recordings for her book (Hadley Music Group).
2015, released Hard Cry Moonalbum (Hadley Music Group), produced by Bryan Sutton.
2016, won the IBMA Award for Songwriter of the Year.

Eddy, Jake

Posted on June 26, 2021 by WR

JAKE EDDY

From Parkersburg, West Virginia.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments but his specialty is flat-pick and gypsy-jazz style guitar.
2014, while in middle school, he entered a contest to record a jingle for the Band-Aid company and won a $10,000 prize.
2014, at age 14 he was a member of Melvin Goins’ Windy Mountain Boys (playing banjo).
While in college (Ohio University) he had two bands: The Jake Eddy Gypsy Jazz Trio, the Eddy/Meyer Trio.
2021, at age 21 joined the Becky Buller band as lead guitarist and vocalist.
2021, released a solo project Jake Eddy (no label) with Bryan Sutton, Kenny Smith, Rob Ickes, Cory Walker, Dominick Leslie and his brother Carter Eddy (bass).

Adkins, Dave

Posted on October 28, 2013June 21, 2024 by WR

DAVE ADKINS

From Elkhorn City, Kentucky.
Adkins began performing at age 8.
1993-1995, played country music at Dollywood theme park. Fans call him the Ray Charles of bluegrass (for his soulful singing).
After his time at Dollywood, he played briefly with a Chicago-based rock band, then moved to Nashville and began performing as a country artist, doing solo shows. He was signed by Atlantic Records, but no recordings were ever released.
1996, he was made an official Kentucky Colonel, the highest honor you can receive from the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
For several years, he worked as a country radio DJ. He was known as “Brave Dave Adkins, the Original Midnight Cowboy” at WBHR in Pikeville, Kentucky.
2010, returned to his bluegrass roots by forming a band called Republik Steele with Kenny O’Quinn (mandolin), Danny Ray Stiltner (bass), Matthew Cruby (banjo), Wesley Wolfe (lead guitar). The band name was a tribute to miners. Several of the band members’ fathers & grandfathers worked for Republic Steel, a large mining company.
2013, released first album That’s Just The Way I Roll (Rural Rhythm).
2013, his band Republik Steele dissolved and he formed a new partnership with Edgar Loudermilk — Adkins and Loudermilk. They released a project together in 2015.
2014, released first solo project Nothing To Lose (Mountain Fever).
2017, released gospel album Turn to Jesus (Mountain Fever) as The Dave Adkins Trio.
2018, released Right or Wrong album (Mountain Fever).
2019, released Better Days album (Mountain Fever).
2024, released What I’m For album (Billy Blue).

Nedski and Mojo

Posted on January 20, 2014July 19, 2020 by WR

NEDSKI AND MOJO (SEE NED LUBERECKI AND STEPHEN MOUGIN)

Harris, Emmylou

Posted on November 29, 2013October 28, 2015 by WR

EMMYLOU HARRIS

From Birmingham, Alabama. Lives in Nashville.
Was a “hippie-hillbilly” singer and waitress, working in Washington D.C. when she was discovered by Chris Hillman, who introduced her to Gram Parsons (Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers). That encounter launched her career.
Musical heroes: Joan Baez, Judy Collins and Bob Dylan.
Studied acting on a scholarship at University of North Carolina in Greensboro.
1980, released acoustic album Roses in the Snow and won the CMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year.
1988, she won the CMA Award for Vocal Event of the Year for her “Trio” album (with Dolly Parton and Linda Rondstadt).
Until 1991, band was known as the “Hot Band” and included such musicians as Rodney Crowell, Ricky Skaggs and Carl Jackson.
1991, Emmylou formed an acoustic/bluegrass band The Nash Ramblers with Sam Bush, Roy Huskey Jr., Al Perkins, Jon Randall Stewart and Larry Atamanuik. They recorded one album, Live at the Ryman at the newly restored Ryman Auditorium.
1992, she became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
1992, released an acoustic Christmas album, Light of the Stable (Warner Brothers).
1994, re-formed her Hot Band.
2001, appeared on the movie soundtrack O Brother, Where Art Thou? and the Down from the Mountain album and tour.
2008, she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
She has won 13 Grammy Awards (as of 2015).

Nefesh Mountain

Posted on April 26, 2018September 15, 2023 by WR

NEFESH MOUNTAIN

From New Jersey.
A husband-wife duo: Eric Lindberg (banjo, mandolin, guitar) and Doni Zasloff (vocals). Their band has included Alan Grubner (fiddle), Tim Kiah (bass) and Thomas Cassell (mandolin).
They are Jewish-Americans and their music reflects their religious heritage. It is sometimes called “jewgrass.”
Nefesh is a Hebrew word that is equivalent to the English word soul or life.
Many of their songs are sung in Hebrew or Yiddish. They perform frequently for Jewish Shabbat (sabbath) worship services and festivals.
2016, released first album Nefesh Mountain (no label).
2017, released Beneath the Open Sky album (no label) featuring Sam Bush, Tony Trischka, Jerry Douglas and David Grier as backup musicians.

McCormack, Rod

Posted on February 9, 2020February 9, 2020 by WR

ROD MCCORMACK

From Australia (New South Wales, Central Coast).
He is a multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter, studio musician and producer. He owns his own recording studio called The Music Cellar.
He has written over 30 number one country hits in Australia, along with theme songs and background music for a number of successful TV shows and documentaries.
He has played and toured with such artists such as Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Sherrie Austin, Jamie O’neal and was musical director for Trisha Yearwood, LeAnne Rimes, Pam Tillis, Jo Dee Messina and Tracey Lawrence on their Australian tours.
2006, he was awarded Musician of the Year by the CMAA (Country Music Association of Australia).
2004, 2008, 2010 was awarded Producer of the Year by the CMAA (Country Music Association of Australia).
2020, released solo project Fingerprints (Sonic Timber).

Webb, Darrell

Posted on January 6, 2014May 1, 2020 by WR

DARRELL WEBB

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
1993, began his pro career at age 19 playing mandolin with the Lonesome River Band (replacing Dan Tyminski).
1997, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South.
1999, released first solo project “Webbsite.”
2000, joined a group called New Reflections, then returned to work a second time with J.D. Crowe’s New South.
2001, formed a new band called Wildfire with New South bandmates Phil Leadbetter, Robert Hale and Barry Crabtree.
2003, performed on Dolly Parton’s “Halos and Horns” project.
2005, released solo project Behind the Scenes (Lonesome Day).
2007, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, playing guitar (replaced Josh Williams).
2008, joined Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper, playing guitar.
2009, formed The Darrell Webb Band.
2010, released Bloodline album (Rural Rhythm).
2012, released Breaking Down the Barriers album (Rural Rhythm).
2013, was an original member of the group Sideline.
2014, joined a part-time band called Mountain Jacks, the pre-show band for the Lumberjack Feud dinner theatre in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee four nights a week.
2014, released Dream Big album (Mountain Fever) with several guest artists celebrating his 20th year as a professional musician.
2014, left Sideline. His Darrell Webb band became regulars at the Ole Smokey Distillery in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
2017, released Lovers Leap album (Mountain Fever).
2018, disbanded his Darrell Webb band to pursue a solo career.
2018, teamed up with Barry Abernathy (banjo) to form a new band called Appalachian Road Show.

Reischman, John

Posted on December 23, 2013May 11, 2018 by WR

JOHN REISCHMAN (AND THE JAYBIRDS)

From Vancouver, B.C., Canada. Originally from Ukia, California.
Was inspired to play mandolin by David Grisman.
Owns (and plays) a 1924 Gibson F-5 signed by Lloyd Loar.
1977, joined the Good Old Persons.
1980, joined the Tony Rice Unit.
1990, joined Kathy Kallick’s “Little Big Band.”
1993, moved to Canada; released North of the Border album (Rounder).
1996, worked with Kate MacKenzie and Frontline.
2000, released Up in the Woods album (Corvus).
2000, formed his own band called The Jaybirds and released first self-titled album John Reischman & The Jaybirds (Copper Creek). Band members included Trisha Gagnon (bass), Nick Hornbuckle (banjo) and Jim Nunally (guitar).
2004, released The Singing Moon album with guitarist John Miller (no label).
2004, released Field Guide album (Copper Creek).
2005, released Road West album (Corvus).
2007, released Stellar Jays (Corvus).
2011, released Vintage & Unique album (Corvus).
2013, released Walk Along John album (Corvus).
2013, released Road Trip album with guitarist John Miller (no label).
2017, released On That Other Green Shore album (Corvus).

Day, Steve

Posted on November 18, 2013 by WR

STEVE DAY

From Caneyville, Kentucky. Lives in Bowling Green, KY.
Began playing fiddle professionally at age 13.
Won the Kentucky State Fiddling Championship.
1987, joined Gary Brewer and the Kentucky Ramblers.
1998, joined David Parmley and Continental Divide.
2000, released “Fiddle Man” album.
2004, released “It’s All About Fiddling” album.

Zoe and Cloyd

Posted on October 13, 2019April 26, 2023 by WR

ZOE AND CLOYD

(See also Red June)

From Asheville, North Carolina.
Zoe is Natalya Zoe Weinstein (fiddle) and Cloyd is John Cloyd Miller (guitar and mandolin). They are husband and wife (married in 2010).
2005, first met and began performing together in a band called Lo-Fi Breakdown.
2008, formed a band called Red June with Will Straughan (Dobro™ and guitar).
Miller is the grandson of fiddler Jim Shumate (who played with Bill Monroe and was the original fiddle player with Flatt and Scruggs).
Zoe’s grandfather David Weinstein is a Russian immigrant who played klezmer music.
2010, released first Red June album Remember Me Well (no label).
2012, released second Red June album Beauty Will Come (no label).
2013, Miller won 1st place in the bluegrass category at the Merlefest Chris Austin songwriting contest.
2014, released third Red June album Ancient Dreams (Organic).
2015, released Equinox album (no label) under their new name Zoe and Cloyd.
2019, released I Am Your Neighbor album (Organic).

Yoakam, Dwight

Posted on September 9, 2016 by WR

DWIGHT YOAKAM

From Pikeville, Kentucky. Was raised in Columbus, Ohio.
1977, moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music.
1985, released his debut country album “Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc. Etc.” Since then, he has sold more than 25 million records. He has five Billboard #1 albums, twelve gold albums, and nine platinum albums. He is also the most frequent musical guest in the history of NBC’s The Tonight Show.
1992, recorded “Miner’s Prayer” with Ralph Stanley on his “Saturday Night Sunday Morning” album.
1997, recorded a cover of Clash’s “Train in Vain” with Ralph Stanley playing banjo and singing harmony.
2001, wrote and recorded the song “Borrowed Love” on Earl Scruggs’ “Family and Friends” album.
2016, released first bluegrass album Swimmin’ Pools, Movie Stars (Sugar Hill).

Yonder Mountain String Band, The

Posted on January 6, 2014November 12, 2024 by WR

THE YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND

From Nederland, Colorado.
Called “The Original JamGrass Band.” They have been known to “jam” on one tune for more than 60 minutes.
They often invite celebrity performers to jam on stage with them–such as Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, David Grisman, Bryan Sutton, even Earl Scruggs.
Formed in 1998, and has since performed at hundreds of prestigious venues, including Telluride, Rockygrass, MerleFest and the historic Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco (the show was a sell-out).
They produce and distribute their own recordings, making them available to fans via live shows, internet downloads, etc.
Band members include Adam Aijala (guitar), Ben Kaufman (bass), Jeff Austin (mandolin) and Dave Johnston (banjo.)
Aijala previously played in punk and heavy metal rock bands.
Austin and Johnston met in college (University of Illinois) where Johnston played in a group called the “Bluegrassholes.”
2014, Austin left and formed his own group, The Jeff Austin Band.
2015, released Black Sheep album (Frog Pad).
2019, founding member Jeff Austin died at the age of 45.
2020, band now includes Allie Kral (fiddle) and Nick Piccininni (mandolin).
2022, released Get Yourself Outside album (Frog Pad).
2024, released Nowhere Next album (Frog Pad).

Young Acoustic All Stars, The

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

THE YOUNG ACOUSTIC ALL STARS

A group of teen bluegrass musicians that formed in 1994, evolving from Pete Wernick’s “Bluegrass Youth Allstars,” a group he assembled for the 1993 IBMA Awards Show.
Members included Josh Williams (guitar/banjo), Wade Butler (guitar), Joey Gipson (banjo/Dobro™), Jonathan Jones (guitar/banjo), Kati Penn (fiddle).
1994, recorded one album “Somewhere Down the Road.”
Broke up in 1998.

Young, Adrienne

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

ADRIENNE YOUNG (AND LITTLE SADIE)

From Tallahassee, Florida. Lives in Nashville.
A singer, songwriter who plays guitar, fiddle and banjo.
Her grandfather had a Florida band called The Timberland Bluegrass Band.
As a teen, she performed with a local band called Big White Undies.
Graduated with a music business degree from Belmont University (Nashville). While there, she formed a band called Liters of Pop.
Learned banjo from Ketch Secor, of Old Crow Medicine Show.
2003, won the Chris Austin songwriting contest at MerleFest.
2003, formed her touring band “Little Sadie.”
2003, released first album “Plow to the End of the Row” on her own label, AddieBelle Records, the name coming from nickname Young was given while working as a tour guide at Nashville’s Belle Meade Mansion. The CD, which includes a packet of wildflower seeds along with artwork based on the Farmer’s Almanac, was nominated for a Grammy award for Best Album Package.
2005, released second album “The Art of Virtue” based on Benjamin Franklin’s Thirteen Virtues.
She is spokesperson for the Food Routes Network which is involved with “Buy Fresh, Buy Local” campaigns nationwide to build and strengthen local farms and healthy food systems.

Young, Dempsey

Posted on January 6, 2014July 4, 2023 by WR

DEMPSEY YOUNG

From Rocky Mount, Virginia. Originally from Richmond, Virginia.
He was a very influential mandolin player for more than three decades (70’s, 80’s and 90’s). Ronnie McCoury credits Dempsey with inspiring him to play mandolin.
1970, he worked with a group called “The New Grass Express.”
1972, formed (with Alan Mills) the Lost and Found and remained with that group until his death 34 years later.
Died, December 2006 of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Webb, Tommy

Posted on January 6, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

TOMMY WEBB

From Langley, Kentucky (Floyd County).
Sings lead and tenor vocals, plays guitar and clawhammer banjo.
Began performing in high school with The Pine Top Ramblers. Other bands: South Creek, Onlyne, Clyde Bowling and the Southern Bluegrass Boys.
2005, formed his own band and released Now That You Are Gone album (Kindred).
2007, released Eastern Kentucky album (Kindred).
2009, released Heartland album (Rural Rhythm).

Weissberg, Eric

Posted on January 5, 2014March 24, 2020 by WR

ERIC WEISSBERG

- From New York City.
- Began performing as a 10-year-old on radio station WNYC. He plays all the bluegrass instruments including Dobro™ and steel guitar.
- Best known as the banjo player who (with guitarist Steve Mandel of the Garrett Mountain Boys in New York) recorded the instrumental “Dueling Banjos” for the hit movie Deliverance (1973). The tune was originally called “Feuding Banjos” and was written by Arthur Smith and Don Reno in 1955. It was covered by The Dillards as “Duelin’ Banjos” in 1963 and subsequently recorded by Weissberg and Mandel for the movie soundtrack.
- Studied string bass at the famous Julliard School of Music. Worked as a studio musician and performed with The Tarriers and the Greenbriar Boys. Has also performed on double bass with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.
- 1963, recorded a classic banjo duet album with Marshall Brickman (a banjo player who later collaborated with Woody Allen on many films) in the 1960’s called “New Dimensions in Banjo and Bluegrass” which helped to popularize melodic style (a.k.a. Keith-style or chromatic-style) banjo. In 1973, the album was released again by Warner Brothers as Dueling Banjos: From The Original Soundtrack “Deliverance” although Dueling Banjos was not included on the original album.
- 1995, formed a band with Jim Rooney and Bill Keith called The New Blue Velvet Band.
- 1998, began touring as a member of Art Garfunkel’s band, playing guitar.
- 2009, joined the Aaron Copland School of Music (at Queens College) orchestra and chorus.
- 2020, died at the age of 80.

Weisberger, Jon

Posted on January 5, 2014October 8, 2019 by WR

JON WEISBERGER

From Nashville. Grew up in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
Plays bass (currently with Chris Jones and the Night Drivers) and has released several solo projects but is probably best known as a writer of songs and liner notes for albums by other well-known bluegrass artists.
Has played bass with numerous bands: Union Springs, The Wildwood Valley Boys, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time, Sally Jones, The Lonesome Heirs (with Andy Falco, Jeremy Garrett and Ned Luberecki) and Chris Jones and the Night Drivers to name a few.
2000, won the IBMA Award for Print Media Personality of the Year.
2005, won the Charlie Lamb Award For Excellence In Country Music Journalism.
For many years, produced a radio program “Handpicked with Del McCoury” for the Sirius/XM Satellite Radio Network Bluegrass channel.
2008, released solo project “If This Road Could Talk” album featuring his own compositions performed by guest artists.
2012, won the IBMA’s first award for Songwriter of the Year.
2013, was elected Chairman of the Board of the IBMA.
2014, released solo project I’ve Been Mostly Awake (no label) album featuring his original songs performed by guest artists. “I’ve Been Mostly Awake” is a tongue-in-cheek interpretation of the acronym IBMA.
2019, left Chris Jones and the Night Drivers after 17 years to focus on his songwriting and to work with the A&R team at Mountain Home Music. He is also teaching bass at East Tennessee State University.

Welch, Gillian

Posted on January 5, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

GILLIAN WELCH (AND DAVID RAWLINGS)

From New York City; grew up in West Los Angeles; moved to Nashville in 1992.
Her parents were writers for the Carol Burnett TV series.
1988, attended Berklee College of Music in Boston.
While in Boston, she met her singing and writing partner, David Rawlings. She also performs in David’s band The David Rawlings Machine.
She is known for her songwriting talent. Her songs have been recorded by Emmylou Harris, Trisha Yearwood, Miranda Lambert, Jimmy Buffet, the Nashville Bluegrass Band, Tim and Mollie O’Brien, Valerie Smith, many other artists.
1996, released Revival album (Acony), produced by T. Bone Burnett.
2000, she acted and performed in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou,” starring George Clooney.
2001, her duet with Alison Krauss “I’ll Fly Away” (from the O’ Brother soundtrack) won the IBMA award for Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year.
2001, released Time (The Revelator) album (Acony).
2011, released The Harrow & The Harvest album (Acony).

Wellington, Tray

Posted on May 12, 2022July 11, 2022 by WR

TRAY WELLINGTON

From Wilkesboro, North Carolina.
Given name: Trajan Wellington.
Began playing banjo at age 13. He grew up on Flint Hill Road.
2015, formed Cane Mill Road (with Liam Purcell).
2019, won the IBMA’s Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year. Cane Mill Road also won Band of the Year.
2020, left Cane Mill Road and formed his own group, The Tray Wellington Band with Josiah Nelson (mandolin), Nick Weitzenfeld (guitar), and Katelynn Lowe (bass).
2022, released Black Banjo album (Mountain Home).

Welty, Gregg

Posted on August 3, 2018 by WR

GREGG WELTY

From Raleigh, North Carolina. Grew up in Western New York; lives in Pittsburgh, PA.
He is a banjo player, son of Eric Welty, 1993 Bluegrass Banjo National Champion.
He has won more state banjo championships than any other banjo player.
2013-2014, played banjo with Gold Heart.
2014-2015, worked with The Allegheny Drifters.
2015, released Memoir album (no label).
2017, joined Blue Mafia.
2017, formed his own band South 79.
2018, released “Community” album (no label) featuring over 50 musicians, recorded in over 30 locations. Vocalists on the album include Shawn Lane, Josh Shilling, Summer Brooke McMahan, Buddy Robertson and David Mayfield.

Werner, Missy

Posted on January 5, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

MISSY WERNER

From Hamilton, Ohio (near Cincinnati)
Plays mandolin and leads The Missy Werner Band.
1990’s, had a band called Next in Line.
Performs at a restaurant called The Comet (with the Comet Bluegrass All Stars) in Northside Ohio.
Her day job: She’s an accountant.
2009, released a solo album “Drifting and Dreaming” produced by Dwight McCall with guests Ron Stewart, Alan Bibey, Tim Stafford, Randy Kohrs, Ricky Wasson & Harold Nixon.
2011, released Three Kinds of Lonesome album (no label).
2014, released Turn This Heart Around album (no label).

Westwend

Posted on October 10, 2014October 11, 2014 by WR

WESTWEND

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
A duo featuring Wendy Crowe (vocals) and Jonathan Maness (vocals, guitar and mandolin).
Jonathan and Wendy were married in 2013.
Their name Westwend combines their names: West was derived from Jonathan’s middle name Wesley and Wend from Wendy.
Crowe began singing professionally at Dollywood in 1999. She has recorded a solo project titled “The Way I Am” (2013).
Maness has previously worked with the Dixie Beeliners, Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike. He has also recorded a solo project “Time Love and Money” (2013).
2014, released “Linger for a While” album featuring many of their original songs.

Wheeler

Posted on January 5, 2014August 1, 2016 by WR

WHEELER

From Weber City, Virginia
Band members: Kevin Wheeler (bass), Tiffany Wheeler (lead vocals), Mark Jackson (mandolin), Justin Salyer (guitar), Steven Mounts (banjo).
2009, released Bluegrass Gospel album (Mountain Roads).

Wernick, Peter

Posted on January 5, 2014November 20, 2020 by WR

PETER WERNICK

From New York City. Lives in Niwot, Colorado.
Known as “Dr. Banjo” because of a best-selling banjo instruction book he authored (over 200,000 copies sold).
Has an earned doctorate from Columbia University in sociology.
While at Columbia University, he performed with a band called the Orange Mountain Boys.
1969, moved west and joined High Country, a San Francisco-based bluegrass band. Also worked briefly with Vern Williams and Ray Park.
1970-1975, moved to Ithica, New York to complete his Ph.D. work at Cornell University. Also performed with Country Cooking with Tony Trischka and future wife Joan (known as Nondi Leonard at the time).
1976, moved to Colorado. There he met up with Charles Sawtelle and formed a band called the Drifting Ramblers, or the Rambling Drifters (they couldn’t make up their mind.)
1977, released “Dr. Banjo Steps Out” album (Flying Fish).
1978, formed Hot Rize, a very popular band which won the very first IBMA award for Entertainer of the Year in 1990. The group also broke up in 1990.
With “Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers” (a country-western band that was actually Hot Rize in disguise), Peter played the steel guitar as “Waldo Otto”.
1985, created one of the first bluegrass instructional videos Beginning Bluegrass Banjo. He has since created 10 instructional videos.
1986, became the IBMA’s first president (stepped down in 2001 due to new term limits.)
Conducts “banjo camps” for musicians who want to improve their technique on the banjo.
1989, he was a passenger on United Airlines Flight 232—a DC-10 that crashed in Sioux City, Iowa. While his banjo and steel guitar were damaged in the crash, he and his family survived and he was back performing with Hot Rize two days later.
An outspoken advocate of atheism, he served as president of the “Family of Humanists” and co-authored a book titled Atheism for Kids.
1992, formed The Live Five, playing what Pete called “Virtual Bluegrass.” The group’s name was later changed to Pete Wernick and Flexigrass.
1993, released On a Roll album (Sugar Hill Records).
2000, created his Dr. Banjo website, offering instructional content.
2004, a song from his album “Dr. Banjo Steps Out” titled “Big Rock in the Road” was played on Mars to “wake up” NASA’s landing craft Spirit Rover on February 27, making this the first bluegrass tune to be heard on another place in the solar system.
2004, hosted a show on XM Satellite Radio.
2005, performed with Earl Scruggs, Steve Martin and other banjo players on the David Letterman show.
2009, began performing with a Colorado-based band called Long Road Home.
2010, received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA.
2010, launched “The Wernick Method” which trains teachers to lead successful bluegrass jam sessions.
2014, began touring with a rejuvenated Hot Rize in support of their new album When I’m Free.

Whites, The

Posted on January 5, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

THE WHITES

From Wichita Falls, Texas. Moved to Nashville in 1971.
1976, began performing in Fort Smith, Arkansas as a family band as Buck White and the Down Homers (later changed to Buck White and the Down Home Folks.) Included Buck and Pat White and their young daughters Cheryl and Sharon.
Big break: 1979, opened for Emmylou Harris on her “Blue Kentucky Girl” album tour. Led to a recording contract with Capitol Records.
1979, changed their name to The Whites.
1981, Sharon White married Ricky Skaggs.
1984, joined the Grand Ole Opry.
1999, signed with Ricky Skaggs’ Ceili Records label.
2000, appeared in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou” starring George Clooney.
2001, released Lifetime in the Making album (Ceili).
2007, released Salt Of The Earth album (Skaggs Family).
2008, were inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.

White, Clarence

Posted on August 1, 2016August 1, 2016 by WR

CLARENCE WHITE (See also THE KENTUCKY COLONELS)

From Los Angeles (Burbank), California (although he was born in Lewiston, Maine).
He began playing the guitar at age 5. Started out playing the ukelele until his hands were big enough to handle a guitar.
He and his brothers Roland and Eric formed a band called The Country Boys, appearing regularly on a popular local Los Angeles country music TV show. That group became The Kentucky Colonels. They recorded one album for World Pacific and appeared on the Andy Griffith TV show (before the Dillards did).
1967, after the Kentucky Colonels disbanded, he formed a country-rock band called Nashville West. He and bandmate Gene Parsons invented a device called the Parsons/White Stringbender (or B-Bender) which allows an electric guitar string to “bend” while playing, imitating the sound of a pedal steel guitar. Marty Stuart owns the original guitar that Clarence played during that period.
1968, he joined the Byrds, replacing Gram Parsons.
1973, joined Muleskinner with Richard Greene, David Grisman, Bill Keith and Peter Rowan.
1973, reunited with Roland and Eric White for two tours of Europe as The New Kentucky Colonels. The banjo spot in the group was Herb Pederson and Alan Munde.
1973, he died at the age of 29 after being struck by a drunk driver.
His style of flat-picking the guitar influenced a generation of bluegrass musicians including Tony Rice, Dan Crary, Norman Blake, David Grier and many others. He is also credited with helping to shape the sound of country-rock music.
Tony Rice owns his 1935 Martin D-28 guitar.
2000, an album was released by Sierra Records by Clarence White called 33 Acoustic Guitar Instrumentals. The recordings were made on a home tape recorder in 1962.
2016, he was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

White, Jeff

Posted on January 5, 2014July 31, 2023 by WR

JEFF WHITE

From Syracuse, NY; grew up in Northern Indiana.
1979, formed first bluegrass band The Suburban Grass in Indiana with David and Melody Johnson. This band morphed into The Johnsons, winner of the Kentucky Fried Chicken band contest in Louisville, KY.
1986-1990, was a member of Alison Krauss and Union Station.
1990, joined Weary Hearts (replacing Chris Jones).
1991, played briefly with Hot Rize, replacing Charles Sawtelle on guitar. Also worked a few shows with Tim O’Brien when he started his own band that same year.
1992, moved to Nashville and joined Vince Gill’s band, playing guitar and singing background vocals.
1996, released The White Album (Rounder).
1998, formed a band called the Flattheads with Tim O’Brien, Charlie Cushman, Mark Schatz and Jerry Douglas.
1999, released The Broken Road album (Rounder).
2001, worked with the Dan Tyminski Band.
2002, recorded and toured with the Chieftains (worked with them for 16 years).
He has produced several albums for fiddler Michael Cleveland.
His songwriting credits include songs recorded by Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Dan Tyminski, Dale Ann Bradley and many others.
2015, joined the Earls of Leicester, singing tenor and playing mandolin.
2016, released Right Beside You album (no label).
2017, married fiddler Laura Weber.
2019, began touring with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band.

White, Roland

Posted on January 5, 2014April 5, 2022 by WR

ROLAND WHITE

From Maine. Grew up in California. Lives in Nashville.
First band: The Country Boys with his brothers Clarence and Eric (began in Maine, continued in California.)
1956, formed the Kentucky Colonels with brothers Clarence and Eric, and Billy Ray Lathum.
1967, joined Bill Monroe and The Blue Grass Boys, playing guitar.
1969, joined Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass.
1973, re-joined brothers Eric and Clarence to form the New Kentucky Colonels (with Herb Pederson and Alan Munde.)
1974, joined the Country Gazette.
1977, released solo project I Wasn’t Born to Rock ‘N Roll album (Ridge Runner).
1987, joined the Nashville Bluegrass Band.
1994, released solo project Trying To Get To You (Sugar Hill).
2001, left the Nashville Bluegrass Band to perform with his wife Diane Bouska as The Roland White Band.
2002, released Jelly on My Tofu album (Copper Creek).
2014, released Straight-Ahead Bluegrass album (no label).
2017, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. (His brother Clarence was inducted in 2016).
2019, released Roland White and Friends album (Mountain Home).
2022, died at the age of 83.

Whitewater

Posted on January 5, 2014 by WR

WHITEWATER

From Nashville.
Formed in 1995 by guitarist Brad Davis who was working with Marty Stuart at the time.
They appeared with Bill Monroe on the Grand Ole Opry.
They had a monthly radio show on WSM called “White Water Wednesday.”
1997, released “No Gold on the Highway” which included special guests Sam Bush and Marty Stuart.

White, Tim

Posted on January 5, 2014April 17, 2017 by WR

TIM WHITE

From Blountville, Tennessee. Originally from Roanoke, Virginia.
A graphic artist by trade. Among his accomplishments: the painting of a huge mural in Bristol, Tennessee designating Bristol as “The Birthplace of Country Music. He also designed and painted a new logo for the side of Ralph Stanley’s bus.
Has led several regional bands including Troublesome Hollow and The Beagles.
He is founder of the VW Boys, a group that combines bluegrass with comedy and magic.
2006, executive coordinator and host of “Song of the Mountains,” a syndicated TV show which airs weekly on many PBS stations.
He is host of a 2 hour syndicated bluegrass and old-time country radio show which airs on several stations from Georgia to North Dakota.
Serves as president of the ACMA (Appalachian Cultural Music Association) dedicated to the preservation of the music and culture of the Appalachian region.
Helped establish the Mountain Music Museum in Bristol, Virginia and hosts a local two hour live program from there called “The Pickin Porch”.

Whitley, Keith

Posted on January 5, 2014May 18, 2022 by WR

KEITH WHITLEY

From Sandy Hook, Kentucky.
1970, at age 15, began his professional musical career when he and his friend Ricky Skaggs worked with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. That same year, Keith and Ricky recorded a duet album.
1973, worked with Jimmy Gaudreau in a short-lived band called “The Country Store.”
1975, returned to Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys as lead singer and guitarist.
1979, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South.
1985, began his solo career in country music. The following year, he hit the charts with his RCA single, “Miami, My Amy.”
Biggest hits: “When You Say Nothing At All,” “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” and “I’m No Stranger to the Rain.”
Died on May 9, 1989 in Nashville of alcohol poisoning. He was 34 years old.
2022, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Whitstein Brothers, The

Posted on January 5, 2014August 1, 2016 by WR

THE WHITSTEIN BROTHERS

From Colfax, Louisiana.
A brothers duet featuring Robert (guitar) and Charles (mandolin) Whitstein.
Their style is reminiscent of the Louvin Brothers, the Delmore Brothers, and the Blue Sky Boys.
1964-65, worked off and on with Faron Young and Porter Wagoner.
1969, recorded their first album Sing Gospel Songs of the Louvin Brothers (later reissued by Rounder). They spelled their name “Whitstine” at the time.
Were absent from the music scene until the mid-1980’s when they began performing and recording again.
Called “the second-coming of the Louvin Brothers” by Charlie Louvin.
1985, released Rose of My Heart (Rounder).
1987, released Trouble Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues (Rounder)
1989, released Old Time Duets (Rounder).
Recorded three albums before breaking up in 1991. Reunited briefly in 1993.
1996, released Sweet Harmony (Rounder).
Charles performed occasionally with Charlie Louvin, recreating the Louvin Brothers sound.
Robert Whitstein died in 2001.
2003, Charles joined Jesse McReynolds and the Virginia Boys.

Whitt, Mark

Posted on December 29, 2016December 29, 2016 by WR

MARK WHITT (AND TRUE BLUEGRASS)

From Xenia, Ohio (near Dayton) with roots in Sandy Hook, Kentucky.
Plays guitar and mandolin; sings and writes traditional bluegrass songs. He has a band called True Bluegrass.
2013, released “Fly Me Home” album (no label), produced by Clay Hess.
2016, released Over You album (no label), produced by Clay Hess.

Wicentowski, Jerry

Posted on August 3, 2018August 3, 2018 by WR

JERRY WICENTOWSKI

From Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Grew up in New York City.
A singer, guitarist and orthodox Jew, his group Lucky Break performs bluegrass interpretations of Hebrew liturgical music, along with traditional bluegrass and folk songs.
His name is pronouned “Wiz-entowski.”
He is a certified financial planner.
1998, released first album “Lucky Break” (Wizgrass) featuring Byron Berline, Tim O’Brien, Andy Statman, Scott Vestal and other musicians.
2018, released “Thanks Mac” album (no label), a tribute to the music of Mac Wiseman.

Wilborn, Marshall

Posted on January 5, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

MARSHALL WILBORN

Originally from Austin, Texas.
Best known as one of bluegrass music’s top bass players, although his first instrument is banjo.
1982, joined Whetstone Run. It was then that he met Lynn Morris; they eventually married and formed a partnership.
Has also worked with Jimmy Martin and the Johnson Mountain Boys.
1988, co-founded and played bass for The Lynn Morris band. The group had to disband following Lynn Morris’ stroke in 2003.
1998, he was voted Bass Player of the Year by Bluegrass Now Magazine’s Fan’s Choice awards.
1999, released an album of bass instrumentals accompanied by banjo called Root 5 (Pinecastle)..
2006, formed a new band with Dudley Connell, Tom Adams, David McLaughlin and Sally Love called Seneca Rocks.
2007, joined Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper.
2011, won his third consecutive IBMA award for Bass Player of the Year (also won in 2009 and 2010).
2011, left Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper. Currently performs with Springfield Exit.

Wild and Blue

Posted on January 5, 2014August 1, 2016 by WR

WILD AND BLUE

From White House, Tennessee.
Formed in 1988 by David Harvey and his two sisters, Jan Harvey and Jill Snider.
David Harvey (mandolin) formerly worked with Red Allen, The Reasonable Band (from Colorado) and Larry Sparks. In 1980, he won the National Mandolin Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
1994, released Come On In and Make Yourself at Home album (Pinecastle).
1999, released Journey On album (HomeFolks).
2000, group disbanded. Jill Snider went to work for the IBMA. David Harvey joined Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time. He also is an expert mandolin luthier for the Gibson Co.

Wilders, The

Posted on January 5, 2014December 13, 2019 by WR

THE WILDERS

From Kansas City, Missouri.
An alt-country band featuring Ike Shelton (guitar), Phil Wade (mandolin/dobro/banjo), Betse Ellis (fiddle), and Nate Gawron (bass).
Formed in 1996.
2002, backed Iris DeMent on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion.”
2006, performed at the Spiegeltent at Edinburgh Fringe Festival where they were honored with the Herald Angel Award.
2008, released Someone’s Got to Pay album (Free Dirt).
2011, released self titled album “The Wilders” (Free Dirt).

Wildfire

Posted on January 5, 2014October 8, 2024 by WR

WILDFIRE

From East Tennessee.
Formed in 2000 by the members of J.D. Crowe’s band The New South. They worked in both bands until 2001, when they left Crowe’s band for good.
Original members: Phil Leadbetter, Robert Hale, Darrell Webb, Barry Crabtree and Curt Chapman.
2001, released debut album Uncontained (Pinecastle).
They have recorded numerous soundtracks for the Home and Gardens television network.
The have performed frequently at Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. Hale and Webb also worked with Dolly Parton on her “Halos and Horns” project.
2002, released Where Roads Divide album (Pinecastle).
2006, Leadbetter resigned to join The Whites. Webb left to form his own band.
2010, released Crash Course in the Blues album (Lonesome Day). Lineup: Robert Hale (guitar), Steve Thomas (fiddle, mandolin), Johnny Lewis (banjo), Matt Despain (Dobro™), Curt Chapman (bass).
2016, released Rented Room on Broadway album (Pinecastle). Lineup: Robert Hale (guitar), Greg Luck (fiddle, guitar), Chris Davis (mandolin), Johnny Lewis (banjo), Curt Chapman (bass).
2022, released Quiet Country Town album (Pinecastle)
2024, released single If Something Should Happen (Pinecastle)
2024 lineup: Hale (guitar), Chapman (bass), Lewis (banjo), DeSpain (Dobro™), Scott Napier (mandolin).

Wildwood Girls, The

Posted on January 5, 2014January 5, 2014 by WR

THE WILDWOOD GIRLS

From Speedwell, Tennessee. Originally from Chicago.
An all-female band. Formed in 1977 as The Wildwood Pickers by 16-year-old Kim Koskela (banjo), Robin Koskela (vocals), Muriel Anderson (guitar) and Kathy Jones (fiddle).
Their name is derived from the Carter Family song “Wildwood Flower.” Original band wore blue and white checked blouses like the original Carter Sisters.
1982, changed the name to The Wildwood Girls.
They made several overseas tours for the USO and the U.S. Department of Defense.
They were regular performers at Dolly Parton’s “Dollywood” theme park.
They claim to be the first “all girl bluegrass band” to play the Grand Ole Opry.
The only original member to remain with the group was banjo player Kim Koskela (Clauson). IBMA Director Nancy Cardwell played bass with this group in the early 1990’s.
They released a total of six albums on their own record label.
Broke up in 1999.

Wildwood Valley Boys, The

Posted on January 5, 2014June 3, 2020 by WR

THE WILDWOOD VALLEY BOYS

From Milan, Indiana.
Originally formed in 1992, then re-formed in 1997.
They are the second generation of the The Boys from Indiana. Includes three sons of that legendary group: Tony Holt (son of Aubrey), Jeff Holt (son of Jerry) and Harlan Gabbard (son of Harley). Other members of the group previously worked with the Traditional Grass (Gerald Evans, Jr. and Glen Inman.)
1999, released first album When I Get Back To Georgia (Rebel)..
2000, released I’m a Believer album (Rebel).
2002, released Back Country Road album (Rebel).
2003, released Songs From Wildwood Valley album (Rebel).
2005, began performing and recording as Tony Holt and the Wildwood Valley Boys.
2005, released Daylight’s Burnin’ album (Rebel).
2011, released Lost Highways & Treasured Memories album (Rebel).
2016, released “Hymns from the Wildwood Valley” album (Old Heritage).
2017, merged with Feller and Hill.

Williams and Clark Expedition, The

Posted on January 5, 2014 by WR

WILLIAMS & CLARK EXPEDITION (SEE THE EXPEDITION SHOW)

Williams, Blake

Posted on January 5, 2014August 7, 2022 by WR

BLAKE WILLIAMS

From Sparta, Tennessee (also the birthplace of Lester Flatt).
1972-1979, worked with Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass.
1981-1991, played banjo for Bill Monroe and The Bluegrass Boys.
1991-2001, played bass with Mike Snider’s band.
2002, formed a band with mandolinist Bobby Clark called the Williams & Clark Expedition. Later called The Expedition Show.
His nickname: “The Sparta Flash.”

Williams, Jeannette

Posted on January 5, 2014June 28, 2022 by WR

JEANNETTE WILLIAMS

From Danville, Virginia.
Formed a group in 1989 called Clearwater. The band name was changed in 1996 to Jeannette Williams and Clearwater.
For most of her career, she has performed with her husband Johnny, an accomplished guitarist and songwriter.
1994, Jeannette was awarded Female Vocalist of the Year by the Virginia Folk Music Association.
1994, released “Dreams Come True” album (Flying Cloud).
1998, released Cherry Blossoms in the Springtime album (Doobie Shea). She also worked for the label in radio promotions.
1999, recorded her first solo album.
2001, formed The Jeannette Williams Band
2002, released Too Blue album (Bell Buckle).
2003, released Get in the Boat album (Bell Buckle).
2007, won the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest (first place) at Merlefest, for her song “Enough of You.
2008, released Thank You for Caring album (Blue Circle).
2011, formed “Freeman and Williams” with Scott Freeman (mandolin) and husband Johnny Williams.
2022, formed “Shelton and Williams” with guitarist Jay Shelton and husband Johnny Williams. Released an album “So Much Time, So Much Love” (Grass Tank)

Williams, Johnny

Posted on December 31, 2014June 28, 2022 by WR

JOHNNY WILLIAMS

From Danville, Virginia.
A guitarist and songwriter, he is married to singer Jeannette Williams and performs with her band.
His songs have been recorded by Rambler’s Choice, New Classic Grass, Larry Stephenson, Special Consensus, Mark Newton and other artists.
1998, 1999, won the Chris Austin songwriting contest at MerleFest.
2006, joined Big Country Bluegrass
2014, released solo project Going My Way (Mountain Roads).
2022, formed “Shelton and Williams” with guitarist Jay Shelton and wife Jeannette Williams. Released an album “So Much Time, So Much Love” (Grass Tank)

Williams, Josh

Posted on January 5, 2014May 7, 2021 by WR

JOSH WILLIAMS

From Benton, Kentucky. Lives in Dickson, Tennessee.
Was one of bluegrass music’s child prodigies. Gained national recognition when he appeared on the 1993 IBMA Awards show in the “Bluegrass Youth All-Stars” band with Chris Thile, Cody Kilby and Michael Cleveland.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments, but began as a banjo player at age 8. Alison Brown gave him lessons.
1990, formed his first band (at age 10).
1991, recorded first album (at age 11).
1994-1998, performed with The Young Acoustic All-Stars.
1996, formed his own band, High Gear.
1997, released Come to that River album (Copper Creek).
1998, played with a group called Hyperdrive (with Jonathan Jones, Chris and Scott Thile).
2000, played mandolin and fiddle with The Special Consensus.
2001, released Now That You’re Gone album (Pinecastle).
2003-7, played guitar with Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2004, released Lonesome Highway album (Pinecastle).
2008, formed The Josh Williams Band. Also worked dates with Alecia Nugent, the Larry Stephenson Band and the Tony Rice Unit (playing mandolin). He also played fill-in dates with the Mashville Brigade (Tuesday nights at the Station Inn).
2008, 2009, 2010, won the IBMA award for Guitar Player of the Year.
2010, released Down Home album (Pinecastle).
2010, won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year (The Josh Williams Band).
2010, checked himself into a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility to recover from his two-year addiction to methamphetamines.
2012, re-joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2016, released Modern Day Man album (Rounder).
2021, left Rhonda Vincent and the Rage to spend more time with his family.

Williams, Junior

Posted on April 18, 2022April 18, 2022 by WR

JUNIOR WILLIAMS

From Irvine, Kentucky
Plays banjo and guitar.
2001-2013, played banjo with Newfound Road.
2011-2019, formed NewTown with fiddler Katie Penn, whom he married.
2019, Newtown was dissolved, as was his marriage to Kati.
2019, joined the Tim Shelton Syndicate.
2022, released solo project Railroad Town Without a Train (Mountain Fever).
2022, ran for Mayor of Irvine, Kentucky.

Williams, Paul

Posted on January 4, 2014July 25, 2018 by WR

PAUL WILLIAMS

From Wythe County, Virginia. Lives in Morristown, Tennessee.
Real name: Paul Humphrey.
1951, joined the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers as a teenager. When he and his brother Jimmy auditioned for that job, they called themselves The Williams Brothers. He has been known as Paul Willians ever since.
1957, after a stint in the Air Force, joined Jimmy Martin to form The Sunny Mountain Boys. He is best known for his work with this group, including many songs which he wrote for Martin. Jimmy Martin is also his brother-in-law.
1963, left Martin’s band to work for the U.S. Postal Service. Continued to write gospel songs and lead the choir at his church in Morristown, Tennessee.
1995, formed The Victory Trio, a gospel group.
1996, retired from the Postal Service to perform full-time.
1997, released Ain’t God Good album (Rounder).
1999, released Old Ways & Old Paths album (Rebel), which was nominated for a Grammy Award the following year.
2001, released Hard Working Pilgrim album (Rebel).
2001, released Higher Ground album (Rebel) with Cliff Waldron.
2002, released I’ll Meet You in the Gloryland album (Rebel).
2003, released Living on the Hallelujah Side album (Rebel).
2004, was featured on the Grammy nominated album “A Tribute to Jimmy Martin: The King of Bluegrass.”
2004, released I’ll Be No Stranger There album (Rebel).
2005, released When the Morning Comes album (Rebel).
2007, released Where No One Stands Alone album (Rebel).
2008, released What a Journey album (Rebel).
2010, released Just a Little Closer Home album (Rebel).
2010, recorded an album with Doyle Lawson and J.D. Crowe called Old Friends Get Together (Mountain Home). They also performed several concerts together.
2011, released Satisfied album (Rebel).
2012, released Going to Stay in the Old-Time Way album (Rebel).
2014, retired as a touring musician.
2018, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Williams, Robin and Linda

Posted on January 4, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

ROBIN AND LINDA WILLIAMS

From Millbrook, Virginia (Shenandoah Valley).
Gained national recognition while performing as regulars on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion” on public radio.
Robin plays guitar, Linda plays guitar and clawhammer banjo.
They were married in 1971 and recorded their first album together in 1975.
They also tour as members of Keillor’s “Hopeful Gospel Quartet.”
1989, signed with Sugar Hill Records and recorded 9 albums for the label.
1993, toured with Mary Chapin Carpenter.
2002, Robin became a “Justice of the Peace” for one day and performed Mary Chapin Carpenter’s wedding.
Their band is called “Their Fine Group” and has included Jim Watson (bass), Kevin Maul (Dobro™), Jimmy Gaudreau (mandolin), and Chris Brashers (mandolin/fiddle).
2003-2011, co-hosted (with former Statler Brother Jimmy Fortune) the Fortune – Williams Music Festival in Staunton, Virginia.
2004, signed with Red House Records.
2006, appeared in the Robert Altman movie “A Prairie Home Companion.”

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS

Back 40 (Red House, 2013)
These Old Dark Hills (Red House, 2012)
Buena Vista (Red House, 2008) This album has the song “Maybelle’s Guitar and Monroe’s Mandolin” which is classic.
Radio Songs (Red House, 2007)
Sugar For Sugar (Sugar Hill, 1996) This album has a song on it called “Traffic Light” which is great for bluegrass radio!
Good News (Sugar Hill, 1995)
Turn Toward Tomorrow (Sugar Hill, 1993)

Williams, Roger

Posted on January 4, 2014July 26, 2020 by WR

ROGER WILLIAMS

Grew up in Danville, NH; lives in Glastonbury, CT. He was born in Presque Isle, Maine.
He is a well-known northeastern Dobro™ player.
1975-1976, worked with Don Stover and the White Oak Mountain Boys.
1977, joined The Lilly Brothers Band (Everett, Alan & Tennis Lilly).
1979-1980, worked with The Berkshire Mountain Boys.
1980-1993, had a group called White Mountain Bluegrass..
1984, released “Fireball” album on his own label.
1992, released “Route #2 to Amherst” album on his own label.
1994-1996, joined Southern Rail.
1994, released “A Decade Later” album with Ray Legere (Acoustic Horizon Records).
1997, had a band called Blue Diamond Bluegrass (with Stan Tyminski, Dan’s older brother)
1997, released River of No Return album (Strictly Country) with Ray Legere.
1998-2005, joined The New England Bluegrass Band.
2005 joined Amy Gallatin & Stillwaters.
2008, released A Resophonic Retrospective album (Happy Appy).
2012, released Williams Squared album (no label) with son JD Williams playing mandolin (Happy Appy Records).
2019, released solo project I Know This Road (Happy Appy).

Williams, Vern

Posted on January 4, 2014January 7, 2016 by WR

VERN WILLIAMS

Originally from Newton County, Arkansas; moved to California in the 1950’s.
Began playing bluegrass in northern California with fiddler/guitarist Ray Park. “Vern and Ray” became one of California’s most popular bluegrass acts. Broke up in 1974.
1981, formed The Vern Williams Band with his son Delbert. Released Bluegrass from the Gold Country (Rounder).
Backed Rose Maddox on two albums: This Is Rose Maddox (Arhoolie) and Beautiful Bouquet (Arhoolie).
Retired from performing in the late 1990’s due to failing health.
2004, released Traditional Bluegrass album (Arhoolie).
Died in 2006.

Williamson, Kevin (Williamson Branch)

Posted on January 4, 2014June 8, 2023 by WR

KEVIN WILLIAMSON

From Kenova, West Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
Worked with Dave Evans, Redwing, Glen Duncan and Phoenix, other bands before striking out on his own in 1992.
A second-generation bluegrass performer, the son of Jerry Williamson (now deceased, who fronted The Outdoor Plumbing Company and Redwing.)
1992, released Write Between the Lines album (Pinecastle).
1995, formed his own band Shadow Ridge. Released Out of the Shadows album (Pinecastle) with that band.
His wife Debbie sings both lead and harmony vocals in the band. She has also released a solo album “Weepin’ Willow Blues” (Mid-Knight, 1997).
2000, created a musical act for children under the name “Kevin Kidd.”
2011, toured with Randy Waller and the Country Gentlemen, playing bass.
2012-2013, worked with The Farm Hands Bluegrass Quartet.
2014, formed Williamson Branch, a family band with his wife Debbie and three daughters Melody (fiddle), Kadence (bass) and Caroline (vocals). Released “Tis So Sweet” album (Enrichertainment).
2015, Williamson Branch released second album “Branchin’ Out” (Enrichertainment).
2018, Williamson Branch released Free album (Pinecastle).
2020, Melody Williamson received the IBMA Momentum Award for Vocalist of the Year.
2023, Kevin and Debbie Williamson were elected to the West Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame.

Williamson, Tony and Gary

Posted on January 4, 2014June 6, 2018 by WR

TONY AND GARY WILLIAMSON (THE WILLIAMSON BROTHERS)

From Siler City, North Carolina.
Tony is a well-known mandolin virtuoso, with several solo projects to his credit.
Their grandfather was in Company B, 52nd Regiment of the North Carolina Troops who marched with General Lee up Seminary Ridge, July 3, 1863 in the Battle of Gettysburg. He survived.
First band: The Bluegrass Gentlemen (1970) which made the cover of Bluegrass Unlimited magazine.
Gary earned his Ph.D in educational research from Stanford University. He works full-time for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
Tony owns a musical instrument company called Mandolin Central.
1977, Gary was a member of the Bluegrass Alliance.
1978, Tony worked with the Richard Greene band.
1989-1991, Tony was a member of the group ASH&W (He was the “W”).
1994, Tony performed with a one-man show called “The Sound of the American Mandolin.” He has a degree in music from the University of North Carolina.
1995, Tony and Gary formed a duo called The Williamson Brothers.
1995, Tony released solo project “Across the Grain” (Plucked String).
1996 , Tony released solo project “All for Naught” (Mandolin Central).
1998, The Williamson Brothers released “My Rocky River Home” (Mandolin Central).
1999, the Tony Williamson Trio released “Christmas at Doobie Shea” album (Doobie Shea).
2000, released Let Us Cross Over the River album (Doobie Shea).
2003, Tony released Sessions at McBain Mill album (Bonfire).
2003, the Williamson Brothers released “Still Light of the Evening” album (WildChild).
2011, Tony released “Lloyd Loar Mandolins” album (Mandolin Central).
2013, The Williamson Brothers released”Bluegrass!” album (Flatt Mountain).
2018, received the North Carolina Heritage Award.

Wilson Banjo Company

Posted on November 18, 2017October 27, 2020 by WR

WILSON BANJO COMPANY

From Westminster, South Carolina.
They are a band rather than a banjo making business, although founder and banjo-player Steve Wilson has experience as a luthier. He worked for Gibson when he was living in Nashville and continues building instruments.
Band members: Steve Wilson (banjo), Joey Newton (guitar), Sarah Logan (fiddle), Dylan Armour (Dobro™), Brandon Crouch (mandolin) and Rob Walker (bass).
2017, released first album Spirits in the Hills (Bonfire).
2018, Steve Wilson joined Dale Ann Bradley, playing banjo. Wilson Banjo Company (the band) will continue on a limited basis.
2020, released single “Wrong Turn that Led Me to You” (Pinecastle).

Wise, Chubby

Posted on January 4, 2014August 1, 2016 by WR

CHUBBY WISE

From Lake City, Florida.
Real name: Robert Russell Dees. He was adopted by his father’s sister, whose husband’s name was Wise.
Has been called “The Dean of Bluegrass Fiddlers” and “The Original Bluegrass Fiddler.”
Co-author of the fiddle tune “Orange Blossom Special.” At age 18, Wise moved to Jacksonville, Florida where he drove a taxicab by day and played fiddle in bars by night. It was there that he met fiddler Ervin Rouse in 1939 and together they composed “The Orange Blossom Special” in about 45 minutes. When Rouse suggested that they go get it copyrighted, Wise said, “Ervin, I haven’t got time to fool with a fiddle tune. If you can do anything with it, buddy, it’s yours.”
1942, joined Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, replacing Howdy Forrester. Was a member of Monroe’s “original bluegrass band” of 1945-1948 (Monroe, Flatt, Scruggs, Watts and Wise).
1949, left Monroe to work with the York Brothers in Detroit, and later, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs (1951).
Has also worked with Jimmy Martin, Sam and Kirk McGee, Uncle Dave Macon, Hylo Brown, Mac Wiseman, Hank Snow and Merle Haggard.
1994, released In Nashville album (Pinecastle) at age 78. Produced by Butch Baldassari.
1995, released An American Original album (Pinecastle).
Died January 6, 1996.
1998, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Honor.

Wiseman, Mac

Posted on January 4, 2014February 25, 2019 by WR

MAC WISEMAN

From Crimora, Virginia. Lives on Percy Priest Lake, near Nashville.
Was born in 1925, the same year the Grand Ole Opry started.
Real name: Malcolm Bell Wiseman.
1944, began his career as a DJ in in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
1946, worked with Molly O’Day.
1948, was an original member of Flatt and Scruggs’ Foggy Mountain Boys.
1949, worked with Bill Monroe.
Came to be known as “The Voice with a Heart.”
1952-1956, with his band “The Country Boys” recorded several hits for Dot Records including “Jimmy Brown the Newsboy,” “Love Letters in the Sand,” “The Ballad of Davy Crockett.”
1957-1963, worked as an A & R man (Artists and Repertoire) for Dot Records and ran the company’s country-music department.
1958, was one of the founders of the Country Music Association (CMA) and was the organization’s first secretary.
1965, performed at the first bluegrass festival in Fincastle, Virginia.
1966, managed WWVA Jamboree in Wheeling, West Virginia.
1969, had a country hit with “Johnny’s Cash and Charley’s Pride” (RCA Victor).
1990, elected president of R.O.P.E. (Reunion of Professional Entertainers) in Nashville. One of the goals of the organization is to build a retirement home for country music entertainers.
1991, worked at the revived Old Dominion Barn Dance, Richmond, Virginia.
1992, worked at the Willie Nelson Theatre in Branson, Missouri.
1993, was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
1997, recorded with The Groove Grass Boyz.
2001, recorded a duet with his old friend Johnny Cash: “When It’s Reveille Time in Heaven.”
2008, received the National Heritage Award, America’s highest honor in the folk and traditional arts.
2014, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2014, released album Songs From My Mother’s Hand on Wrinkled Records at the age of 89.
2015, his autobiography Mac Wiseman: All My Memories Fit For Print was published (Nova Books).
2016, released “I Sang the Song: Going Back to Bristol” album (Mountain Fever) with guest artists Sierra Hull, Shawn Camp, the Isaacs, Jim Lauderdale and others.
2019, died at the age of 93.

Witcher Brothers, The

Posted on January 4, 2014April 1, 2024 by WR

THE WITCHER BROTHERS

From Granada Hills, California.
Formed in 1985 by Dennis Witcher (mandolin) and his son Gabe (fiddle), who was only six years old at the time. Gabe’s younger brother Michael joined later, playing Dobro™.
Dennis worked in the aerospace industry.
Gabe became an accomplished session musician in Hollywood. He performed on several movie soundtracks including Brokeback Mountain and Toy Story. He later became a member of The Laurel Canyon Ramblers, The Jerry Douglas Band, Eve 6 (a rock band), the Dave Rawlings Machine and the Punch Brothers.
Michael went on to play Dobro™ with Peter Rowan, Laurie Lewis, Missy Raines, Chris Jones and others. He also teaches and does session work.

Wolfpen Branch

Posted on March 19, 2021November 13, 2024 by WR

WOLFPEN BRANCH

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Formed in 2019-2020 by Arthur Hancock IV (guitar) and Chris Shouse (mandolin). They were later joined by Roddy Puckett (bass), Kati Penn (fiddle) and Aaron Bibelhauser (banjo). Hancock and Puckett were formerly members of the Wooks. Penn had her own band NewTown and Bibelhauser also performs with his band Relic.
The group was named after a song written by Hancock called Wolfpen Branch. It is also the name of a road in the Louisville area.
They formed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their other bands were unable to work, so they formed a new band during the layoff.
2021, Penn left the band and was replaced by fiddler Jeff Guernsey.
2021, released first music to radio, a single “Don’t Have a Clue” (no label).
2023, released Long Hill to Climb album (no label)
2023, the group disbanded.

Woolsey, Jim and Lynna

Posted on March 10, 2014April 25, 2022 by WR

JIM AND LYNNA WOOLSEY

A husband and wife duo from Petersburg, Indiana.
At age 15, Jim began playing with the Patoka Valley Boys. Soon thereafter, he and Lynna met and married, she also started playing and singing in the same band. They were the subject of a documentary film that was made in 1979.
1989, they won the Kentucky Fried Chicken bluegrass talent contest in Louisville, Kentucky.
2002 and 2003, their band Fields of Home won first place in the Indiana Picking and Fiddling Contest.
2014, released first album The Road that Brings You Home (Broken Record).
2016, released Heart & Soul, Blood and Bone album (Broken Record) with guest musicians Jim Lauderdale, The Chapmans, Randy Kohrs and others.
2019, released Long Ago album (Pinecastle/Bonfire).
2021, released The Fall album with an companion book of stories from their lives (Bell Buckle).
2022, released Walk Into the Water album (Breken Record).

Wood, A.L. (Wood Family Tradition)

Posted on March 17, 2015January 20, 2021 by WR

A.L. WOOD AND THE SMOKEY RIDGE BOYS (THE WOOD FAMILY TRADITION)

From Statesville, North Carolina.
Banjo player and singer A.L. (or Al) Wood began performing in 1962.
He recorded several albums under his own name with his band The Smokey Ridge Boys which included (at various times) his older brother Odell Wood (bass), Dewey Farmer (mandolin). Lester Deaton (guitar) and A.L.’s sons Mike and Bobby (guitar and bass).
1973, released “Sing a Bluegrass Song” album (Rebel Records) which was re-issued in 2011.
1973, released “Bluegrass Today” album (Rebel Records).
1982, released “Kentucky Country Home” album (Rich-R-Tone).
2001, released two albums: “Cold Granite Heart” and “A Bluegrass Classic” (no label).
His songs have been recorded by many other artists: Sweet Carrie (Dailey and Vincent), Rhythm Of The Wheels (Rhonda Vincent), Sing A Bluegrass Song (Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road).

WOOD FAMILY TRADITION

2012, while A.L. doesn’t travel or perform any longer, his family has formed The Wood Family Tradition featuring A.L.’s sons Mike (guitar) and Bobby (bass), Mike’s son Jason (mandolin) and his wife Mackenzie (vocals). Brian Aldridge (banjo) is Mike’s son-in-law.
Member of the band have worked with other artists as well, Brian was in Sideline and Constant Change, Mike and Bobby appeared on recordings by songwriter Ray Edwards. Jason formerly worked with the James King Band and Audie Blaylock and Redline.
2014, released self-titled album (no label).

Wood and Wire

Posted on January 4, 2014May 6, 2021 by WR

WOOD AND WIRE

From Austin, Texas.
Formed in 2010 by Tony Kamel (guitar), Matt Slusher (mandolin), Dom Fisher (bass) and Trevor Smith (banjo).
They call their music “Dirty Texas Grass.”
2013, toured with the Yonder Mountain String Band.
2013, released self-titled Wood & Wire album (no label).
2015, released The Coast album (no label).
2016, Billy Bright (mandolin) joined the band, replacing Matt Slusher.
2018, released North of Despair album (Blue Corn Music).

Wood Box Heroes

Posted on February 19, 2023February 19, 2023 by WR

WOOD BOX HEROES

From Nashville.
Formed in 2022 by Barry Bales (bass), Jenee Fleenor (fiddle), Seth Taylor (mandolin), Matt Menefee (banjo), and Josh Martin (guitar).
Bales is also a member of Alison Krauss’ band Union Station
2022, Fleenor won the CMA Award for “Musician of the Year” for the fourth time. She is a first-call session musician in Nashville and has toured with Blake Shelton, Martina McBride, Terri Clark, Don Williams and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, among others. She also performed on NBC’s The Voice for 8 years. She has recorded on numerous #1 songs and is also a prolific songwriter.
Seth Taylor is also a member of Mountain Heart.
Matt Menifee is a former member of Cadillac Sky and Chessboxer.
Josh Martin is a singer/songwriter from Kentucky with several country albums to his credit (Sony/ATV).
2023, released first single Made Up My Mind (no label).

Wooks, The

Posted on September 13, 2016April 11, 2022 by WR

THE WOOKS

From Lexington, Kentucky.
The Urban Dictionary defines a wook as: “a hippie without any ambition, motivation, or drive other than drugs and image. They’re generally in their twenties, college students (or dropouts) at small-town liberal colleges (such as Appalachian State University) and dependent on an income other than their own.”
Formed in 2014 by C.J. Cain (guitar), Galen Green (mandolin), Arthur Hancock (banjo), Roddy Puckett (bass) and Jesse Wells (fiddle).
Hancock’s father (also Arthur Hancock) is a bluegrass songwriter and recording artist, as well as the owner of a Kentucky Derby winning race horse, Sunday Silence.
2016, won the band competition at RockyGrass and released their first self-titled album (no label).
2016, released “Little Circles” album (Gnar Vector).
2017, Wells and Green left the band; multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Aaron Bibelhauser joined.
2018, released “Me and the Stars Tonight” album (Gnar Vector).
2018 lineup: Cain (guitar), Harry Clark (mandolin), Hancock (guitar), Roddy Puckett (bass).
2018, released “Glory Bound” album (Gnar Vector).
2019, Hancock and Puckett formed a new band with Aaron Bibelhauser and Kati Penn called Wolfpen Branch.
2021, released Flyin’ High album (Gnar Vector). New lineup: Cain (guitar), Clark (mandolin), George Guthrie (banjo) and Allen Cook (Dobro™).

Wooten, Gene

Posted on January 4, 2014 by WR

GENE WOOTEN

From Franklinton, North Carolina. Moved to Nashville in 1977.
Played Dobro™ with several bands including Wilma Lee Cooper and The Clinch Mountain Clan, Country Gazette and the Sidemen. He also did a lot of session work in Nashville.
1992, joined the Osborne Brothers’ band.
1994, won a Grammy Award for his participation on “The Great Dobro™ Sessions” album (produced by Jerry Douglas.)
Died in 2001 of cancer.

Workman, Jake

Posted on January 14, 2020September 30, 2024 by WR

JAKE WORKMAN

From Draper, Utah.
2001, began playing guitar at age 13, when his parents gave him a guitar for Christmas. Formed a rock band called Wayward Son.
2003, his parents gave him a banjo for Christmas, which kindled his love for bluegrass.
He has played in several Salt Lake City based groups including Cold Creek, The Aaron Ashton Band, and the Jake and Rebekah Workman Band.
He has a degree in jazz guitar performance from the University of Utah.
2007, formed a band called Driven with the McLemore Brothers of Kansas and his wife Rebekah (fiddle).
2015, replaced Cody Kilby as guitarist for Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
2016, was given an IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2019, released solo project Landmark (no label).
2020, won the IBMA Award for Guitar Player of the Year.
2024, left Ricky Skaggs to spend more time with his family and pursue his solo career.

Wright, Curtis

Posted on July 30, 2016July 30, 2016 by WR

CURTIS WRIGHT

From Huntingdon, Pennsylvania.
A singer, songwriter and guitarist, he began his career in a band called Country Generation. He also worked with Vern Gosdin, singing background vocals before launching a solo career in 1989.
As a songwriter, he has written several hit songs including “A Woman in Love” for Ronnie Milsap, “Next to You, Next to Me” and “Rock My Baby” for Shenandoah, “Too Much Fun” for Daryl Singletary, “What’s It To You” for Clay Walker and “She’s Got a Man on Her Mind” for Conway Twitty.
1992, released solo country album Curtis Wright (Liberty).
1994, formed a band with Robert Ellis Orral called “Orral and Wright.” They released one album (Giant Records).
2002-2007, became Shenandoah’s third lead singer (after Marty Raybon and Brent Lamb).
2007, joined Pure Prairie League.
2016, recorded a self-titled bluegrass album Curtis Wright (Voxhall).

Wright, Norman and Kevin Church

Posted on January 4, 2014 by WR

NORMAN WRIGHT AND KEVIN CHURCH

From Virginia.
1991, both left The Country Gentlemen to form their own band.
Wright has also worked with The Bluegrass Cardinals and Bill Harrell and the Virginians.
Church plays banjo, and is the son of banjo player, Porter Church, who once was a member of Bill Monroe’s band, The Blue Grass Boys.
1998, changed name of their band to The Travelers. Disbanded after a few years together.
2008, Church became of member of the Country Gentlemen Tribute Band.
2010, Wright was a member of Darren Beachley and the Legends of the Potomac.
2011, Wright and Church re-formed The Travelers.

Wyland, Dede

Posted on January 4, 2014July 6, 2024 by WR

DEDE WYLAND

From Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Lives in Baltimore, Maryland.
1975, was lead singer for Wisconsin-based bluegrass band Grass, Food and Lodging.
1980, moved to New York City and joined Tony Trischka and Skyline.
1987, moved to Tucson, AZ and began pursuing a career in teaching voice.
1990, moved to Baltimore and continued teaching voice, founding the Dede Wyland School of Voice.
1995, formed Acoustic Outlet with Mike Munford, Chris Stifel, Akira Otsuka and Fred Smith.
2000, formed the Dede Wyland Band.
2009, released Keep The Light On album backed by Mike Munford (banjo), Ronnie and Rickie Simpkins (bass and mandolin/fiddle), Wyatt Rice (guitar).
2018, released Urge for Going album (Patuxent).
2019, formed new band called Big Howdy (Randy Barrett, banjo; Ira Gitlin, bass; Tom McLaughlin, mandolin).

Wyrick, Stuart

Posted on April 5, 2016August 3, 2016 by WR

STUART WYRICK

From Luttrell, Tennessee (“Tater Valley”)
Began performing at age 8.
1995-2009, played banjo with the gospel group New Road.
He also has a 60-acre farm in East Tennessee where he raises Black Angus and Hereford cattle.
2008, formed Brand New Strings.
2013, joined the Dale Ann Bradley band.
2016, released solo project East Tennessee Sunrise (Rural Rhythm) produced by Steve Gulley.
2016, joined Flashback.

Van Cleve, Jim

Posted on January 2, 2014July 20, 2024 by WR

JIM VAN CLEVE

Born/raised in Sarasota, Florida. Grew up in Haywood County, North Carolina. Resides in Nashville.
Began playing fiddle at age 7.
As a teenager, played with Ric-o-chet, Lou Reid & Carolina, Rambler’s Choice, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1998, was a founding member of Mountain Heart with Barry Abernathy, Steve Gulley, Adam Steffey and Johnny Dowdle. He was a member of Mountain Heart for 17 years.
He is also an A-list Nashville session musician. Played on Carrie Underwood’s hit single “Don’t Forget to Remember Me.”
2006, recorded solo project No Apologies (Rural Rhythm). First cut, “Nature of the Beast” nominated for Grammy Award ( for Best Country Instrumental Performance).
2012, contracted Dengue Fever while he was on a Carribean vacation which sidelined him for several months.
2015, left Mountain Heart to tour with country star Josh Turner and to start his own production company.
2018, was a founding member of Appalachian Road Show.

Van Meter, Sally

Posted on January 2, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

SALLY VAN METER

From the San Francisco Bay area. Lives in Colorado.
One of the top Dobro™ players in bluegrass.
Original member of The Good Old Persons. She was also in the band Blue Rose.
1991, released solo project All in Good Time (Sugar Hill).
1993, formed her own band.
1994, formed the Sally Van Meter/Tammy Fassaert Band (with vocalist Tammy Fassaert).
One of her recordings was used in the soundtrack of the hit TV series, Northern Exposure.
Has produced albums by the Yonder Mountain String Band and Open Road.

Verch, April

Posted on January 2, 2014January 30, 2017 by WR

APRIL VERCH

From Pembroke, Ontario, Canada.
Began step-dancing at age three; fiddling at age six.
As a high school student, recorded two albums.
Attended Boston’s Berklee School of Music.
Won the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddle Championship and Canadian Open Fiddle Championship.
Worked with Canadian country music star Tommy Hunter.
Her live show invariably includes a step-dancing demonstration.
2003, released From Where I Stand album (Rounder).
2006, released Take Me Back album (Rounder) produced by Dirk Powell.
2009, released Verchuosity album (Rounder).
2013, released Bright Like Gold album (no label).
2015, released Newpart album (no label).
2017, released Anthology album (Slab Town).

Vern and Ray

Posted on January 2, 2014January 7, 2015 by WR

VERN AND RAY

From Stockton, California. Originally from Arkansas.
A duo featuring Vern Williams (mandolin) and Ray Park (guitar). Ray also played fiddle.
Met in Stockton in 1959, formed a band called the Carroll County Country Boys. Recorded several singles on the Starday label.
Herb Pederson (Dillards, Desert Rose Band, Laurel Canyon Ramblers) frequently played banjo with Vern and Ray.
Disbanded in 1974. Vern formed The Vern Williams Band with his son Delbert on guitar, Keith Little on banjo.
Ray went on to work with many other west coast bluegrass and country bands. He also recorded a solo fiddle album called “Fiddletown” in 1982.
Ray died in 2002.
Vern died in 2006.
2014, Laurie Lewis and Kathy Kallick recorded a tribute album called “Laurie and Kathy Sing the Songs of Vern and Ray.”

Vestal, Scott

Posted on January 2, 2014July 31, 2017 by WR

SCOTT VESTAL

From Duncan, Oklahoma. Lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Started playing banjo at age 13.
At age 18, landed his first pro job with Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers (one year).
Age 19, moved to Texas and formed a band with brother Curtis and Russell Moore called Southern Connection.
1985, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1990, formed a group called Livewire.
1992, released a solo project “In Pursuit of Happiness” (no label).
1994, with David Parmley, formed Continental Divide.
1996, won IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year (co-winner with Sammy Shelor).
1998-2003, worked with the John Cowan Band.
Producer of series of annual instrumental albums (The “Bluegrass” series), which won the IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year in 1996.
First to popularize the “stealth” banjo: a five-string banjo with a hidden fifth-string tuning peg.
2000, released Millenia album (Pinecastle).
2003, joined Rock County. Also worked with Longview and Shawn Camp.
2004, joined Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time.
2006, joined the Sam Bush Band.
2006, he and his wife Alice recorded Going to the Dance album.
2017, won the Steve Martin prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass (which comes with a $50,000 check).

Via, Mason

Posted on June 11, 2021April 24, 2024 by WR

MASON VIA

From Danbury, North Carolina.
Via is pronounced “Vie” (as in “die” or “sky”).
A multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter.
2016, released solo project Up, Up, Up (no label). He previously recorded several projects with Tom Mindte and Ben Somervil (Patuxent).
Previously performed with Hot Trail Mix and the Mason Via Band.
2020, joined Old Crow Medicine Show.
2021, made the final top 40 competition on the ABC-TV program American Idol.
2021, released solo project on Mountain Fever Records.
2024, left Old Crow Medicine Show to resume his solo career.

Village Singers, The

Posted on January 2, 2014January 19, 2018 by WR

THE VILLAGE SINGERS

From Fredericktown, Missouri.
Originally called “The Gospel Tones.” Formed in 1972 by Harold and Kathy Goad.
1985, changed name to the Village Singers.
Heavily influenced by the style of the Chuck Wagon Gang.
Harold (banjo and guitar) formerly performed regularly at Silver Dollar City in Branson. Wife Kathy plays mandolin. Their son Warren plays guitar and sings bass.
Bass player Shirley Vaughn, formerly with a group called Parker Mountain Bluegrass is from Springdale, Arkansas.
1999, released There’s a Great Day Coming album (Pinecastle).
2001, released All Aboard album (Pinecastle).
2010, released He Put the Color in the Rose album (Pinecastle).
Harold Goad died, 2018

Vincent, Rhonda

Posted on January 2, 2014February 22, 2023 by WR

RHONDA VINCENT

From Kirksville, Missouri.
Grew up performing with her family band, The Sally Mountain Show. She appeared on their weekly TV show and recorded 11 albums before embarking on a solo career. She began singing professionally and playing mandolin at age five.
1977, won the Missouri state fiddle championship.
1985, began performing with Grand Ole Opry Star Jim Ed Brown on the Grand Ole Opry (as a background vocalist).
1992, signed wth Giant Records for two country projects.
1998, co-hosted the IBMA awards show with Ricky Skaggs.
1998, formed Rhonda Vincent and the Rage. The original Rage was spelled “Raje” for the initials of the band members: Rhonda, Alan (Jones), Joey (Wieneman) and Earl (actually Irl Hees). It was later changed to Rage.
She owned a restaurant in Kirksville called “Bogie’s” (now closed.)
Nickname: “Mandolin Mama.” The New York Times called her “the Queen of Bluegrass.”
2001, won the IBMA award for Entertainer of the Year.
2002, was inducted into the George D. Hay Country Music Hall of Fame in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas.
2009, began recording and performing with country artist Gene Watson.
2014, won SPBGMA award for Entertainer of the Year.
2015, won her 8th IBMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year (she also won this award in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006).
2017, released All the Rage–Live, Volume One album (Upper Management)
2018, won a Grammy Award for her album All the Rage–Live, Volume One (Upper Management)
2018, the Missouri state legislature voted to name a portion of Highway 63 in northeastern Missouri “The Bluegrass Queen Rhonda Vincent Highway.”
2021, she was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry (Feb 6). The induction was conducted by Dierks Bentley.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

A Dream Come True (Rebel, 1990)
New Dreams & Sunshine (Rebel, 1991)
Bound for Gloryland (Rebel, 1991) with the Sally Mountain Show.
Timeless & True Love (Rebel, 1991)
Back Home Again (Rounder, 2000)
One Step Ahead (Rounder, 2003)
Ragin Live (Rounder, 2005)
All American Bluegrass Girl (Rounder, 2006)
Beautiful Star: A Christmas Collection (Rounder, 2006)
Good Thing Going (Rounder, 2008)
Destination Life (Rounder, 2009)
The Storm Still Rages (Rounder, 2010)
Taken (Upper Management, 2010)
Sunday Mornin Singin (Ingrooves, 2012)
Only Me (Upper Management, 2014) a 50/50 mix of classic country and bluegrass songs, guest appearances by Willie Nelson, Daryl Singletary.
Christmas Time (Upper Management, 2015)
All the Rage–Live, Volume One (Upper Managment, 2017)

Virginia Ramblers

Posted on January 2, 2014March 31, 2020 by WR

THE VIRGINIA RAMBLERS

From Albermarle County, Virginia.
Formed in 2004.
Members: Charles Frazier (guitar, lead vocals), Donnie Shifflet (bass) and Jeff Vogelsong (mandolin), Zack Deming (banjo). Vogelsong and Deming were later replaced by Troy Gooding (mandolin) and Tom Hogge (banjo).
Frazier, Shifflet and Vogelgesang performed together for 13 years with banjo player Alvin Breeden as The Virginia Cutups.
Zack Deming is a former member of King Wilkie.
2005, appeared on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion.”

Virginia Squires, The

Posted on January 2, 2014August 8, 2018 by WR

THE VIRGINIA SQUIRES

From Virginia.
Formed in 1983 by Rickie Simpkins (fiddle and mandolin), Ronnie Simpkins (bass), Mark Newton (guitar and lead vocals), and Sammy Shelor (banjo.)
The Simpkins brothers and Shelor had previously worked with The Heights of Grass. Lead singer Mark Newton had previously worked with The Knoxville Grass.
1984, voted “Bluegrass Band of the Year” by the Country Music Association of Virginia.
1985, released “Mountains and Memories” album (Rebel).
1986, released “Hard Times and Heartaches” album (Rebel).
1988, released “Variations” album (Rebel)
Broke up in 1989. They occasonally reunite when the members of the band are together at festivals.
Ronnie Simpkins went on to work with many bands including a long-running stint with the Seldom Scene. Rickie Simpkins worked with numerous bands including Tony Rice, Lonesome River Band, Continental Divide, the Isaacs and Emmylou Harris. Sammy Shelor joined the Lonesome River Band and has been its leader ever since. Mark Newton is a solo performer and promotes the annual Graves Mountain Bluegrass Festival in Virginia.

RECOMMENDED:

Best of the Virginia Squires (Rebel)

Uncle Earl

Posted on January 2, 2014January 22, 2017 by WR

UNCLE EARL

Formed in 1999 by K.C. Groves (guitar, mandolin) and Jo Serrapere (vocals). They were originally a duo backed by guest musicians such as Tahmineh Gueramy (fiddle), Amanda Kowalski (bass), Casey Henry (banjo) and Sally Truitt (bass).
2002, released first album “She Went Upstairs” (no label) featuring Groves and Serrapere with guests Sally Van Meter and Laurie Lewis.
They sometimes refer to themselves as the g’Earls.
2003-2010, the band included Groves, Abigail Washburn (banjo), Rayna Gellert (fiddle) and Kristen Andreasson (guitar).
Groves has recorded several solo projects of folk, old-time and bluegrass music. She lives in Colorado.
Banjo player Abigail Washburn also performs and records as a solo artist, specializing a blend of American and Chinese folk music. In 2009, she married Bela Fleck and performs with him in the Sparrow Quartet as well as a duo.
Kristen Andreasson is also a member of the Maryland-based Footworks, a percussive dance group. She lives in Woodstock, NY.
Rayna Gellert (from North Carolina) is a former member of the Freight Hoppers.
2005, released She Waits For Night album (Rounder).
2007, released Waterloo, Tennessee album (Rounder) produced by John Paul Jones (of Led Zeppelin).
2010, band included Groves, Andreasson, Stephanie Coleman (fiddle), Paula Bradley (banjo) and Rachel Eddy ( banjo, fiddle, and bass.)

Underwood, Jacob

Posted on December 24, 2015April 20, 2022 by WR

JACOB UNDERWOOD

From Illinois.
Plays banjo with Bluegrass Express, a group that includes his father and grandfather, Gary and Greg.
He began playing piano at age 5, then mandolin and fiddle at age 8. At age 13, he learned banjo and guitar. He has won numerous fiddle and banjo contests.
2015, at age 19, he released his second solo album “The Banjo Files” (no label)
2022, released “My Hope Is In the Lord” album (Plum River).

Union Kun-Tree

Posted on January 2, 2014 by WR

UNION KUN-TREE

From Arkansas.
Began as the Chitlin Switch Road Runners in the mid-1950’s (performing on a radio station in El Dorado, Arkansas). They also appeared on the Louisiana Hayride.
1980, changed name to Bluegrass Kun-Tree, recorded several albums under that name.
2005, re-emerged as Union Kun-Tree.
Original lead singer Joe Wilson died in 1984. His son Joe Wilson, Jr. took his place in the band, playing banjo.
Celebrated 50 years as a band in 2005.

Union, Geoff

Posted on January 1, 2014October 31, 2020 by WR

GEOFF UNION (RAGGED UNION)

From Fayetteville, North Carolina. Also has lived in Austin, Texas and Golden, Colorado.
2002-2009, played guitar with the Two High String Band (Austin, Texas). He also performed in a duo with mandolinist Billy Bright.
2009, released first solo project Big Sky Tonight (no label).
2012, released Cold As Steel album (no label).
2013, formed a short-lived band called Texas Express.
2013, moved to Golden, Colorado from Austin and formed a band with his wife Christina (vocals) called Ragged Union.
2015, released “Hard Row to Hoe” album (Ragged Union/no label).

Unlimited Tradition

Posted on January 1, 2014February 10, 2019 by WR

UNLIMITED TRADITION

From Wheelersburg, Ohio.
Formed in 1993 by Ray Craft (guitar, lead vocals), John Lewis (banjo), Jason Hale (guitar) and Scottie Sparks (guitar) and Shayne Bartley (mandolin). Other members of this band at various times: Jack Hicks (banjo), Steve Huber (banjo), Harold Nixon (bass) and Randy Kohrs (Dobro™).
1996, won the SPBGMA Band Championship in Nashville
1997, recorded self-titled album for Doobie Shea Records.
2000, disbanded.
2008, Bartley and Craft re-formed the group with Bobby Hicks playing fiddle on selected dates.

Unspoken Tradition

Posted on February 6, 2014August 21, 2024 by WR

UNSPOKEN TRADITION

From Cherryville, North Carolina.
Formed in 2011 by Lee Shuford (Dobro™), Audie McGinnis (guitar) and Zane McGinnis (banjo). Other band members include Matt Warren (bass), Tim Gardner (fiddle) and Ty Gilpin (mandolin).
Their motto: “We play working class bluegrass.”
2013, released Simple Little Town album (no label).
2015, released Miles Between album (no label).
2018, released Myths We Tell Our Young album (Mountain Home).
2019, bassist/vocalist Sav Sankarin joined the band.
2022, released Imaginary Lines album (Mountain Home).

Thacker, Ernie

Posted on January 1, 2014November 27, 2023 by WR

ERNIE THACKER (AND ROUTE 23)

From Cleveland, Ohio. Lived in Haysi, Virginia (near Ralph Stanley’s hometown of McClure).
1988-1994, sang lead and played both mandolin and guitar with Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys.
At age 13, had a band called the Country Cousins. Two years later, a band called the Bluegrass Revelators.
He has two sons named Keith and Whitley.
1994, left Stanley’s band to form a group with another Clinch Mountain Boy, Junior Blankenship.
1995, released Tennessee Blues album (Copper Creek).
1997, formed his own band called Route 23, named for a scenic highway in Virginia.
2002, released Chill of Lonesome album (Doobie Shea).
2006, was seriously injured in an auto accident, leaving him paralyzed. One of his legs was amputated.
2008, confined to a wheelchair, he recorded and released a new album Hangman (Pinecastle).
2018, after a long battle with various physical problems, he passed away on April 10.

Thacker, George

Posted on January 1, 2014August 21, 2023 by WR

GEORGE THACKER

Originally from San Antonio, Texas. Lived in Spring City, Tennessee where he served for many years as an elected county official.
Has been called “The Master of the Bluegrass Harmonica.”
Has worked with Mike Snider on the Grand Ole Opry
1994, released “Bluegrass Harmonica” album.
1995, released Blazing a New Trail album (Pinecastle).
2022, died in a South Carolina federal prison. He was serving a 33 month sentence for wire fraud.

Theo & Brenna

Posted on December 9, 2020October 21, 2024 by WR

THEO & BRENNA

From Winchester, Kentucky.
Theo (guitar) and Brenna (banjo) MacMillan are brother and sister, two of ten siblings in their family.
They both attended Berea College (Kentucky) and played in the Berea College Bluegrass Band.
2016, moved to Nashville and began performing as a duo. Two years later, they formed their own band.
2019, released first album Where You Go (no label).
2022, released I Can Hear Kentucky Calling Me (Mountain Fever).
2024, Brenna released a solo project Dear Life (no label).

Thile, Chris

Posted on January 1, 2014September 27, 2018 by WR

CHRIS THILE

Originally from San Diego (CA) County. Born in Oceanside, lived in Idyllwild, California. Now lives in New York City.
Pronounced “Theé-lee” (like “really.”)
Took mandolin lessons from John Moore (of California and Bluegrass Etc.)
Hobby: baseball card collecting and playing baseball. He was a star little-league pitcher. His great-great-great-great uncle Sam Thompson is in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1989, at age 9 formed the band Nickel Creek with friends Sean and Sara Watkins (guitar/fiddle) of Vista, California.
1990, 1994, won the Arizona State Mandolin Championship.
1993 (at age 12) won the National Mandolin Championship (the youngest winner ever.)
1993, (at age 12) released first solo album Leading Off (Sugar Hill), produced by Peter Wernick.
1994, worked with Richard Greene’s band “The Grass is Greener.”
1994, released second solo album Stealing Second (Sugar Hill).
1995, his family moved to Murray, Kentucky. His father Scott (original bass player with Nickel Creek) was employed by Murray State University as a musical instrument technician.
1997, appeared on Grammy-winning album True Life Blues: The Songs of Bill Monroe (Sugar Hill).
1999, recorded and toured with Dolly Parton.
2000, with Nickel Creek, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2001, his performance of “Ode to a Butterfly” (from Nickel Creek album) was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Recording.
2001, won the IBMA award for Mandolin Player of the Year. Nickel Creek also won the award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
2001, released solo project Not All Who Wander Are Lost (Sugar Hill).
2002, toured and recorded with Mike Marshall.
2004, released solo project Deceiver (Sugar Hill).
2006, recorded solo project How to Grow a Woman From the Ground (Sugar Hill).
Began touring with his own band featuring Noam Pikelny (banjo), Gabe Witcher (fiddle) and Chris Eldridge (guitar) as the “Tensions Mountain Boys.” The band name was later changed to The Punch Brothers.
2007, last Nickel Creek performance.
2009, performed a concerto that he wrote for the mandolin with the World Youth Symphony Orchestra.
2010, recorded and toured with Dierks Bentley.
2011, recorded an album of duets with guitarist Michael Daves called “Sleep With One Eye Open.”
2011, performed and recorded with Edgar Meyer, Stuart Duncan and Yo-Yo Ma as The Goat Rodeo Sessions.
2012, received the McArthur Foundation “Genius Award” ($500,000).
2013, released album of classical mandolin solos Bach: Sonatas & Partitas.
2013, married actress Claire Coffee (of NBC’s Grimm).
2014, recorded a new Nickel Creek album “A Dotted Line,” touring with the reunited group to celebrate their 25th anniversary.
2014, released Bass & Mandolin album with bass virtuoso Edgar Meyer.
2016, became the permanent host of “A Prairie Home Companion” radio program, replacing Garrison Keillor. In 2017, the show was re-named “Live From Here.”
2018, was presented with a Distinguished Achievement Award by the IBMA.

Third (IIIrd) Tyme Out

Posted on January 1, 2014May 5, 2021 by WR

IIIRD TYME OUT (RUSSELL MOORE AND IIIRD TYME OUT)

Formed in 1991.
Original group composed chiefly of former members of Doyle Lawson’s band Quicksilver: Russell Moore (guitar, lead vocals), Ray Deaton (bass), Terry Baucom (banjo), Alan Bibey (mandolin) and Mike Hartgrove (fiddle). All but Bibey were Lawson alumni.
Name was chosen because each band member had worked with two other bands previously. IIIrd Tyme Out was literally their “third time out.”
1991, released first album “IIIrd Tyme Out” (Rebel).
1992, Bibey left the band to be replaced by Lou Reid. Then, Lou Reid and Terry Baucom left to form their own band. Wayne Benson (mandolin) and Steve Dilling (banjo) replaced them.
1992, released Puttin New Roots Down album (Rebel).
1994, released “Across the Miles” album (New Haven).
1994, released “Grandpa’s Mandolin” album (Rebel).
1995, released Letter to Home album (Rounder).
1996, released Living On The Other Side album (Rounder).
1998, released Live At The MAC album (Rounder).
1999, released John & Mary album (Rounder).
2000, won their seventh consecutive IBMA award for Vocal Group of the Year (also won in 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999).
2001, Hartgrove left the band to join the Lonesome River Band; was replaced by Greg Luck.
2001, released Back to the MAC album (Rounder).
2002, released Singing on Streets of Gold album (Chateau Music Group).
2004, Benson left the band to join the John Cowan Band; replaced by Alan Perdue (formerly with Mountain Heart).
2004, released Erase the Miles album (Rebel).
2004, released Best Durn Ride album (Chateau Music Group).
2005, Greg Luck left to work with the Circuit Riders. He was replaced by Justen Haynes.
2006, bass player Ray Deaton left to work with the Anita Fisher Band. He was replaced by Edgar Loudermilk.
2006, released “Round III at the MAC” album (Chateau Music Group).
2007, Wayne Benson returned to the band.
2007, changed the name of the band to “Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out.”
2008, released Footprints: A IIIrd Tyme Out Collection album (Rounder).
2009, released Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out album (Rural Rhythm).
2011, released Prime Tyme album (Rural Rhythm).
2012, released Bluegrassed: Timeless Hits From the Past album (Cracker Barrel).
2012, Russell Moore won his fifth IBMA award for Male Vocalist of the Year (also won in 1994, 1997, 2010 and 2011)
2013, Steve Dilling and Edgar Loudermilk left the band. They were replaced by Keith McKinnon (banjo) and Blake Johnson (bass.)
2015, released “It’s About Tyme” album (Break a String).
2015, Blake Johnson left the band for health reasons and was replaced by Jerry Cole (formerly with Pine Mountain Railroad). Johnson subsequently died of a heart attack (at age 33) in June of 2017.
2018, fiddler Justin Haynes left the band to start a family business (dog training, boarding & breeding) and was replaced by Nathan Aldridge. In late 2018, bass player Jerry Cole left the band and was replaced by Dustin Pyrtle (formerly with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver).
2019, original bass player Ray Deaton died at the age of 66.
2021 band lineup: Moore (guitar), Benson (mandolin), Kevin McKinnon (bass), Keith McKinnon (banjo) and Nathan Aldridge (fiddle). The McKinnons are twin brothers.

Thom, David

Posted on January 1, 2014December 29, 2021 by WR

DAVID THOM

From Sonoma, California (San Francisco Bay Area)
Plays guitar and fronts The David Thom Band.
Also works with the David Grisman Bluegrass Experience.
2000, released Plays Bluegrass album (no label).
2012, released album produced by Laurie Lewis titled That Old Familiar (Swollen).
2014, teamed up with Don Rigsby to record an album of duets.

Thomas, Steve

Posted on January 1, 2014November 1, 2019 by WR

STEVE THOMAS

From Vernon, Connecticut. Lives in Nashville.
1981, won the Virginia State Fiddle Championship.1982, won the World’s Fair Fiddle Contest in Knoxville.
1982, joined Del McCoury’s band, The Dixie Pals.
1983, an original member of the Lonesome River Band (he came up with the name).
1984, Jim and Jesse.
1985, the Lost and Found.
1985-1988, The Whites.
1988-91, The Osborne Brothers.
2003, joined the Ronnie Bowman band.
Has played fiddle with several bands in recent years including Jesse McReynolds, Aaron Tippin, Barbara Mandrell, Brooks and Dunn, LeeAnn Womack, Kenny Chesney, John Michael Montgomery and Lorrie Morgan. Has also produced recordings by The Crowe Brothers, Larry Cordle and Jesse McReynolds.
2013, formed a duo with Mark Newton. Released album Reborn (Pinecastle).
2013, a fire destroyed his Nashville home on New Year’s Eve.
2017, joined David Parmley and Cardinal Tradition.
2019, formed his own band The Time Machine; signed with Bonfire Records.

Thomas, Suzanne

Posted on January 1, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

SUZANNE THOMAS

From Hillsboro, Ohio.
1970-1989, was a member of the Hotmud Family.
1990-2000, the Dry Branch Fire Squad.
1998, released a solo album Dear Friends & Gentle Hearts (Rounder) with special guests The Lonesome River Band, the Seldom Scene, IIIrd Tyme Out, others.

Thompson, Bobby

Posted on January 1, 2014 by WR

BOBBY THOMPSON

From Franklin, Tennessee.
One of country music’s best known studio musicians of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s.
One of the first “chromatic” (or “melodic”) style banjo players. Influenced many others.
Early 60’s, worked with Jim and Jesse.
Was a member of the group Area Code 615.
Played theme music to “Hee Haw,” “Smokey and the Bandit,” “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Urban Cowboy,” many others.
Played on hit songs by such artists as Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, Jim & Jesse, Hank Snow, Tammy Wynette, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Loretta Lynn, Bill Monroe, Dolly Parton, Perry Como, Eddy Arnold, Les Paul, Connie Smith, Merle Haggard, Trini Lopez, the Monkees, Olivia Newton-John, Melanie, Jimmy Buffett, Dr Hook, Leon Russell, Neil Young and many others.
1990, retired from music due to multiple sclerosis.
Died in 2005.

Three Ring Circle

Posted on January 1, 2014April 17, 2017 by WR

THREE RING CIRCLE

From Nashville.
An acoustic trio featuring Rob Ickes (Dobro™), Andy Leftwich (mandolin) and Dave Pomeroy (electric upright bass. They create their own style of music with combines elements of jazz and bluegrass.
Ickes is a full-time member of Blue Highway.
Leftwich is a full-time member of Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder.
Pomeroy is an accomplished Nashville studio bassist who has appeared on more than 500 albums and six Grammy winning albums with artists such as Emmylou Harris, The Chieftains, Elton John, Earl Scruggs and Alison Krauss. He has performed live with dozens of well known artists including Duane Eddy, John Fogerty, Steve Winwood, and Mose Allison. He has been voted Studio Musician of The Year and Bassist of The Year at the Nashville Music Awards. He is currently president of the Musicians’ Union in Nashville.
2006, released Three Ring Circle album (Earwave).
2011, released Brothership album (ResoRevolution).

Three Tall Pines

Posted on March 18, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

THREE TALL PINES

From Boston, Massachusetts.
A bluegrass/Americana quartet featuring Joe Lurgio (mandolin), Dan Bourdeau (guitar), Nick DiSebastian (bass) and Conor Smith (fiddle).
Named 2011 Bluegrass Band of the Year by the Motif Arts Magazine and winner of the Ossipee Valley Bluegrass Festival band competition.
2007, released Short While Ago album (no label).
2011, released second album All That’s Left (no label).
2014, released third album Taproot (no label).

Tice, Jordan

Posted on January 1, 2014October 17, 2022 by WR

JORDAN TICE

From Annapolis, Maryland.
Born in 1987, he began his professional career playing guitar with Marty Raybon, Mike Auldridge, Emory Lester and others.
He studied jazz guitar performance and composition at Towson University.
2004, joined Gary Ferguson to form a duo.
2005, released first solo project No Place Better (Patuxent) at age 18.
2007, released “Corbett, Chrisman and Tice” album (no label) with Wes Corbett (banjo) and Simon Chrisman (hammered dulciner).
2009, released Long Story album (Patuxent) with Casey Driessen (fiddle), Noam Pikelny (banjo), Andy Hall (Dobro™), Mark MacGlshan (mandolin) and Mark Schatz (bass)
2012, released Secret History album (Patuxent) as The Jordan Tice Trio with Simon Chrisman (hammered dulcimer) and Paul Kowert (bass).
2015, began touring and recording with Paul Kowert, Brittany Haas and Dominick Leslie as Hawktail.
2014, released “You Got This” album (no label) as Hass, Kowert, Tice (with Brittany Haas and Paul Kowert).
2016, released Horse Country album (Patuxent).
2020, released Motivational Speakeasy album (Padiddie).

Tiller’s Folly

Posted on January 1, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

TILLER’S FOLLY

From Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
A folk/celtic/bluegrass trio featuring Bruce Coughlan (guitar), Laurence Knight (bass) and Nolan Murray (fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar).
Formed in 1996 by songwriter Bruce Coughlan.
Describe their music as “Canadiana, Americana, Newgrass and beyond.”
2003, released Ripple in Time album (Knight).
2011, released Go the Road album (no label) featuring guests John Cowan, Josh Shilling, Del McCoury, Sam Bush, Cia Cherryholmes and others.
2015, released Stirring Up Ghosts 1 & 2 album (no label).

Titcomb, Gordon

Posted on January 1, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

GORDON TITCOMB

From Torringtom, Connecticut.
Since 2001, a member of Arlo Guthrie’s touring band.
Plays pedal steel, mandolin, Dobro™, banjo and guitar.
As a sideman, has worked with Paul Simon, Shawn Colvin, Travis Tritt, Dottie West, Hank Williams Jr., Peter Rowan and many others.
2005, released solo project The Last Train (Rising Son).

Toshinskiy, Ilya

Posted on June 6, 2016June 20, 2016 by WR

ILYA TOSHINSKIY

From Moscow, Russia. Lives in Nashville.
Pronounced “Eel-ee-yuh Toe-shin-skee.”
Was a founding member of the Russian bluegrass/country band Bering Strait (also known as Cheerful Diligence and Siberian Heatwave). They migrated to Nashville and recorded three albums. Broke up in 2006.
2004, left Bering Strait and began working as a studio musician. He is a five-time winner of the Music Row award for top guitar player and two-time winner of the ACM award for musician of the year (specialty instruments). He has performed on recordings by Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Glen Campbell, the Doobie Brothers and Rascal Flatts (including their hit son “Banjo”).
2016, released solo banjo project Red Grass (Hadley Music Group).

Tompkins, Alan

Posted on January 1, 2014July 27, 2020 by WR

ALAN TOMPKINS

Originally from Western Kentucky; moved to Texas in 1983. Lives in the Dallas area.
He is a practicing attorney, managing legal affairs for the Lamar Hunt Family (Unity Hunt, Inc.) and their affiliated entities including the Kansas City Chiefs and other professional sports franchises.
He founded the Bluegrass Heritage Foundation which exists to preserve and advance bluegrass music worldwide.
He co-founded the Frisco Bluegrass Festival in Frisco, Texas (with Gerald Jones).
Plays bass, banjo and guitar.
2012, released solo album No Part of Nothin (no label) with guest artists Ron Stewart, Sam Bush, Randy Kohrs, Kenny & Amanda Smith and others.

Tottle, Jack

Posted on January 1, 2014November 28, 2018 by WR

JACK TOTTLE

From Baltimore, Maryland.
A mandolin player, record producer, and author of a best-selling mandolin instruction book (Bluegrass Mandolin, Oak Publications, 1976).
First band: a Washington, D.C. group called “The Lonesome River Boys” (1968-1970).
1975, released a solo project “Back Road Mandolin” (Rounder).
1975 formed Tasty Licks (with Pat Enright and Bela Fleck) in Boston.
1977-1982, was a member of The Payroll Boys of Letcher Country, Kentucky.
1982, founded the bluegrass music program at East Tennessee State University, which has produced many professional bluegrass musicians.
1999, released Bluegrass Sound album (Copper Creek) with guests Jerry Douglas, Tony Rice, Béla Fleck, Stuart Duncan, Ron Block, Ronnie and Del McCoury.
Conducts seminars across the country on how to listen to bluegrass music.
2012, formed a band in Hawaii called Bluegrass Jack.

Toner, Niall

Posted on January 1, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

NIALL TONER

From Dublin, Ireland. Lives in Bunclody, County Wexford.
Since the 1960’s, one of Ireland’s best known folk and bluegrass performers. He also had a long-running radio program in Ireland called “Country Heartland.”
Plays mandolin and guitar.
Early career, fronted several Irish folk/bluegrass bands including the Lee Valley String Band, the Sackville String Band and an electric band called Hank Halfhead and the Rambling Turkeys. They had a hit single in Ireland and played Adam Clayton’s (U2) birthday party.
1988-1997, was a resident performer at the Harcourt Hotel in Dublin.
1999, moved to County Wexford and formed the Niall Toner Band. Since then has recorded several albums of original songs.
His songs have been recorded by Bill Wyman (Rolling Stones), Albert Lee, the Nashville Bluegrass Band, Special Consensus and numerous Irish artists.
2012, released his first American album Onwards & Upwards (Pinecastle).

Top, Zach

Posted on March 9, 2022May 14, 2022 by WR

ZACH TOP

From Eastern Washington. Lives in Nashville.
Began playing guitar at age five. He is a singer/songwriter and bandleader.
At age seven, he and his siblings had a band called Topstring.
2015, joined a Seattle-based band called North Country.
2017, formed a band called Modern Tradition.
2019, signed with RBR Entertainment and released first single “In a World Gone Wrong.”

Town Mountain

Posted on January 1, 2014April 5, 2016 by WR

TOWN MOUNTAIN

From Asheville, North Carolina
Formed in 2005, won the band competition at the Rockygrass (Colorado) Bluegrass Festival.
“Jimmy Martin, Hank Williams and the Ramones had a baby. And its name is Town Mountain.” – from a review in the Charlotte Observer.
Band members: Robert Greer (lead vocals, guitar), Jesse Langlais (banjo), Barrett Smith (bass), Phil Barker (mandolin).
2008, released Heroes and Heretics album (no label).
2011, released Steady Operator album (Pinecastle).
2012, released Leave the Bottle album (Pinecastle).
2014, released Live at the Isis album (no label).
2016, released “Southern Crescent” album (LoHi)

Traditional Grass, The

Posted on January 1, 2014September 21, 2015 by WR

THE TRADITIONAL GRASS

From Middletown, Ohio.
Led by the late fiddler and radio personality Paul “Moon” Mullins. Other members: Mark Rader (guitar), Joe Mullins (banjo), Gerald Evans, Jr. (mandolin) and Mike Clevenger (bass.)
Formed in December of 1983, disbanded in 1995 (last show: September 17, 1995).
Paul Mullins was the band’s direct link with tradition. In the 1950’s he played fiddle with the Stanley Brothers. He later formed the Boys from Indiana. As a popular radio personality (AKA “Moon Mullins”) He hosted a bluegrass radio program on WPFB in Middletown for more than 20 years. He won the IBMA award for Broadcaster of the Year in 2000.
Since the band’s breakup, Joe Mullins has performed with Longview and with his own band Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers. He continues his father’s broadcasting legacy on several Ohio radio stations.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

The Blues Are Still the Blues (Rebel, 2015) A nice collection from the Rebel archives.
Songs of Love & Life (Rebel, 1995)
Just A Five String & Fiddle (Rebel, 1995) Gerald Evans and Joe Mullins instrumental album.
I Believe in Old-Time Way (Rebel, 1993)
10th Anniversary Collection (Rebel, 1993)
Howdy Neighbor Howdy (Rebel, 1992)

Trampled by Turtles

Posted on January 1, 2014November 8, 2022 by WR

TRAMPLED BY TURTLES

From Duluth, Minnesota.
Formed in 2004.
Their music has been described as “Bluegrass Thrash.”
Members of the band: Dave Simonett (guitar), Tim Saxhaug (bass), Dave Carroll (banjo), Erik Berry (mandolin) and Ryan Young (fiddle).
2004, released Songs from a Ghost Town album (Banjodad).
2010, released Duluth album (Banjodad).
2010, released Palomino album (Banjodad).
2012, released Stars and Satellites album (Banjodad).
2014, released Wild Animals album (Banjodad).
2018, released Life is Good on the Open Road album (Banjodad).
2019, released Sigourney Fever album (Banjodad).
2022, released Alpenglow album (Banjodad).

Travelers, The

Posted on January 1, 2014 by WR

THE TRAVELERS

From Virginia.
Formed in 1998. From 1991-1997, they performed as the Norman Wright and Kevin Church band.
The original band included three former members of the Country Gentlemen: Wright (mandolin), Church (banjo), and Spider Gillam (bass).
1999, Gillam was replaced by David Lewis.
2001, the group disbanded and both Wright and Church worked as sidemen in other bands.
2010, Wright worked with Darren Beachley and the Legends of the Potomac
2011, Wright and Church reunited to begin performing together as The Travelers. Also in the band: John Miller (guitar/mandolin) and Mike Connor (bass).
2013, Miller was diagnosed with cancer on his tongue and missed four months with the band. Rejoined them in November.

Traver Hollow

Posted on January 1, 2014April 13, 2016 by WR

TRAVER HOLLOW

From Columbia, Connecticut.
Formed in 1980 by guitarist Paul Harvey and his wife Peggy Ann Harvey. Banjo player Dan Menzone was also in this band.
They first jammed in a cabin on Traver Hollow Road in New York.
They toured Europe frequently and became especially popular in Holland.
They hold the distinction of being the first American bluegrass band to appear on prime-time TV in Denmark.
1985, released “Genuine Acoustic Bluegrass” album.
1999, released final album “Lonesome Without You.”
2016, banjo player Menzone formed a band with guitarist Wyatt Rice called the Rice & Menzone Alliance.

Traveling McCourys, The

Posted on July 27, 2018February 11, 2019 by WR

THE TRAVELING MCCOURYS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2009.
A progressive spin-off of the Del McCoury band featuring everyone in the band except Del: Ronnie McCoury (mandolin), Rob McCoury (banjo), Jason Carter (fiddle and Alan Bartram (bass). In 2017, Cody Kilby (guitar) joined the band as its permanent guitar player.
Until Kilby joined in 2017, the band utilized a variety of musicians to fill the guitar spot including Keller Williams, Dierks Bentley, Jeff Autry, Chris Eldridge, Josh Williams, Dan Tyminski, Jeff White, Bryan Sutton, Kenny Smith, Larry Keel, Jim Lauderdale, Peter Rowan, Josh Shilling, David Grier and others.
2012, released Pick album with Keller Williams (Sci Fidelity)
2018, released The Traveling McCourys album (McCoury Music).
2018, won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
2019, won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album for The Traveling McCourys (McCoury Music).

Travers, Fred

Posted on January 1, 2014 by WR

FRED TRAVERS

From Huntingtown, Maryland (Washington D.C. area).
One of the top Dobro™ players in bluegrass.
Learned to play Dobro™ from Mike Auldridge.
1989-1995, worked with the Gary Ferguson Band; also with Paul Adkins and the Borderline Band.
1995, joined the Seldom Scene, replacing Mike Auldridge.
Day job: a professional firefighter (now retired).

Trent, Buck

Posted on January 5, 2015October 11, 2023 by WR

BUCK TRENT

From Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Real name: Charles Wilburn Trent.
He is best known as “Mr. Banjo,” a versatile Nashville musician who worked for many years with Porter Wagoner and Roy Clark and was a cast member of the Hee Haw TV Show. He also recorded frequently with Dolly Parton and Marty Stuart.
He is the inventor of the electric banjo. On many of Porter Wagoner’s records, he made the banjo mimic the sound of a steel guitar by using Scruggs D-tuners on all four tuning pegs.
1960-1961, played banjo with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys.
1975, 1976, won the CMA Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
1975, recorded an instrumental duet album with Roy Clark called “Pair of Fives” (MCA).
1977, released a solo album “Oh Yeah!” (ABC). “Oh Yeah” was his signature catch phrase.
1978, recorded a second instrumental duet album with Roy Clark called Banjo Bandits (MCA).
1976, released a solo album called “Bionic Banjo” (ABC).
1990, moved to Branson, Missouri where he performed regularly at Baldnobber’s Jamboree and opened for Mickey Gilley. He later began headlining his own morning show called “The Buck Trent Country Music Show” which aired on RFD-TV.
2023, he was inducted into the National Banjo Hall of Fame.
2023, died at the age of 85.

Trischka, Tony

Posted on January 1, 2014July 6, 2024 by WR

TONY TRISCHKA

From New York. Lives in Fair Lawn, New Jersey.
1963, began playing banjo at age 14. Inspired by the Kingston Trio’s “Charlie and the MTA.”
An innovative banjo player. One of the first to play jazz on the five-string banjo.
Introduced Bela Fleck to the banjo and gave him his first banjo lessons.
1965-1971, played with a folk group called the Down City Ramblers.
1971, formed Country Cooking (with Peter Wernick). Made his recording debut with album “15 Bluegrass Instrumentals.”
1973, formed Breakfast Special.
1976, recorded “Banjoland” album.
1977, was musical director for a Broadway show called “The Robber Bridegroom.”
1978, played with a group called Monroe Doctrine.
1981, formed Skyline.
1985, released solo project Hill Country (Rounder).
1988, formed The Big Dogs with David Grier and Harley Allen; released “Live at the Birchmere” (Strictly Country).
He has authored numerous banjo instruction books.
1992, performed and recorded with The Rounder Banjo Extravaganza, a collaboration with Tony Furtado, Tom Adams and David Grier.
1993, created a touring show (and album) called World Turning (Rounder) which traced the evolution of the banjo from West Africa (where the banjo was born) to the present and future.
1995, released a Christmas album Glory Shone Around: A Christmas Collection (Rounder).
2000, formed the Tony Trischka Band, a jazz group.
2001, performed and recorded with The Wayfaring Strangers.
2006, released Solo Banjo Works album with Bela Fleck (Rounder).
2007, released Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular album (Rounder) featuring duets with Earl Scruggs, Steve Martin, Bela Fleck, Alison Brown, Tom Adams and other banjo players of note. He and Steve Martin appeared together on the Late Show with David Letterman.
2007, won IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year. Also won Instrumental Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year awards for Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular.
2008, released Territory album (Rounder).
2009, established The Tony Trischka School of Banjo, an interactive banjo instruction website.
2012, was awarded the United States Artists Friends Fellow in recognition of his achievements in music.
2014, released Great Big World album (Rounder).
2024, released Earl Jam album (Down the Road).

Troublesome Hollow

Posted on January 1, 2014 by WR

TROUBLESOME HOLLOW

From Hickory Tree (near Bristol), Tennessee.
A comedy/bluegrass band formed by banjo player Tim White.
This band specialized in songs about possums. In 1993 they released an entire album of possum songs and include in their shows a six-foot possum called Seemore, who dances and hands out candy to the children in the audience.
This band morphed into The VW Boys.

Trout Steak Revival

Posted on March 23, 2015May 31, 2020 by WR

TROUT STEAK REVIVAL

From Denver, Colorado (although most of the band members are originally from Wisconsin, Michigan and New York).
Formed in 2008 by Steve Foltz (mandolin/guitar), Casey Houlihan (bass), Will Koster (Dobro™), Travis McNamara (banjo) and Bevin Foley (fiddle).
2010, released self-titled album (no label).
2012, released Flight album (no label).
2014, won first place in the band contest at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.
2015, released Brighter Every Day album (no label), produced by Chris Pandolfi (Infamous Stringdusters).
2017, released Spirit to the Sea album (no label).
2020, released The Light We Bring album (no label).

Troy, Leroy

Posted on January 1, 2014April 17, 2017 by WR

LEROY TROY

From Goodlettsville, Tennessee.
Real name: Troy Lee Boswell.
Performs in the style of his hero, Uncle Dave Macon.
A National Old Time Banjo Champion. Began playing at age 12
1982, worked with the Bailes Brothers, playing bass.
1983-84, joined the cast of TV’s “Hee Haw.”
Entertained on the General Jackson Showboat for three years (Nashville).
1988, first appeared on the Grand Ole Opry.
1994, released Son of the South album (no label).
1995, named “Best New Artist” by the Traditional Music Association.
A collector of country music and Civil War memorabilia.
2002, began recording & performing with The Tennessee Mafia Jug Band.
He often performs on Marty Stuart’s TV show.
2008, released The Old Grey Mare album (Rounder).
2011, released Poor Leroy’s Almanack album (Spring Fed) with the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band.
2014, released Barnyard Frolic album (Spring Fed) with the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band.

Trinity River Band, The

Posted on January 1, 2014October 28, 2021 by WR

TRINITY RIVER BAND

From Callahan, Florida.
A family band consisting of dad and mom Mike and Lisa Harris (guitar and bass) plus kids Sarah (mandolin), Brianna (fiddle) and Josh (banjo.)
Began performing together as a band in 2008.
2013, released Today It Don’t Look Like Rain (no label), their fourth album.
2014, Sarah was nominated for an IBMA Momentum Award in the vocalist category.
2014, released Better than Blue album (Orange Blossom).
2015, released Heartstrings album (Orange Blossom).
2016, released Things We Do for Dreams album (Orange Blossom).
2018, released Unbroken album (Orange Blossom).
2021, played their last show together as a band.

True Blue

Posted on January 1, 2014January 7, 2015 by WR

TRUE BLUE

From Berkeley, California.
Formed in 2002 by Del Williams, Avram Seigal, Ed Neff and Allison Fisher.
Not to be confused with (1) a band of the same name that played Dollywood in the early nineties (2) a Canadian bluegrass band with the name True Blue, nor (3) Becky Schlegel’s band which also has the name “True Blue.”
Williams is the son of Vern Williams (of Vern and Ray fame.) He played guitar and performed with his father in the Vern Williams Band for 15 years.
Neff (fiddle/mandolin) is a former member of High Country and the Vern Williams Band.
Siegel (banjo) most recently worked with the Kathy Kallick Band.
2003, released “Years Gone By” album

True North

Posted on January 1, 2014April 8, 2020 by WR

TRUE NORTH

From Salem, Oregon
An “indie-grass quartet” featuring Dan Wetzel (mandolin/guitar), Dale Adkins (guitar), Suanne Pearce (bass) and Kristen Grainger (vocals).
Grainger is the group’s primary vocalist and songwriter.
2005, released first album “Cobalt Miles of Sky.”
2014, released “elsebound” album.

Tugalo Holler

Posted on June 13, 2020 by WR

TUGALO HOLLER

From Westminster, South Carolina.
Tugalo is pronounced “Two-ga-lou.” The Tugalo is a river near Westminster, SC.
Formed in 2001 by Stephen Hudson (Lead Vocals, Fiddle), Michael “Porkchop” Branch (Bass), Michael Hill (Banjo), Bradley Webb (Guitar), Jessica Hudson (Lead/Harmony Vocals), and Dennis James (Mandolin).
Their first gig was at Gap Hill Baptist Church in Six Mile, South Carolina. They feature gospel music in all their performances.
2020, released first single to radio: Mockingbird (Horseface).

Turning Ground

Posted on February 27, 2014January 9, 2023 by WR

TURNING GROUND

From Salyersville, Kentucky.
Formed in January 2013 by Nathan Arnett (lead vocals, guitar), Jonathon Arnett (mandolin), Ralph Adams (guitar), Mike Daniels (banjo) and Chad Gilbert (bass). A later incarnation of the band included Kyle Kleinman (mandolin), Jason Hale (bass) and Josh Hensley (banjo).
Nathan Arnett formerly worked with Arnett Bros. and Co. and High Caliber Grass.
2013. released “March 2, 2012” album (no label). The date signifies the day a devastating tornado hit Kentucky.
2014, released “Cell of Mine” album (no label).
2018, released Old Country Store album (Bonfire).
2019, Nathan Arnett was a contestant on the NBC TV show The Voice. His wife Chesi often performs with him as a duo.
2020, released Crazy House album (Pinecastle).

Tuttle, Molly

Posted on September 14, 2018February 4, 2024 by WR

MOLLY TUTTLE

From Palo Alto, California.
She is a guitarist, banjoist, vocalist and songwriter who began performing at age 11 with her family band The Tuttles. At age 13, she recorded and album titled “Molly and Jack Tuttle: The Old Apple Tree” (Back Studio Records). Jack is her father, who is a multi-instrumentalist and music teacher.
2010, released “Introducing the Tuttles with A.J. Lee” album (Back Studio) with her family band and family friend A.J. Lee on mandolin.
2015, attended Berklee College of Music (Boston).
2015, performed and recorded as a duo with fiddler John Mailander.
2016, won the Chris Austin Songwriting competition at MerleFest.
2016, won the IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2016, formed a band called The Goodbye Girls with Allison de Groot (banjo), Lena Johnson (fiddle) and Britanny Karlson (bass).
2016, formed The Molly Tuttle Band with Mailander (fiddle), Wes Corbett (banjo) and Sam Grisman (bass).
2017, appeared on the cover of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
2017, released Rise album (Compass).
2017, won the IBMA Award for Guitar Player of the Year.
2018, her band lineup: Wes Corbett (banjo), Hasee Ciaccio (bass) and Duncan Wickel (fiddle).
2018, won Folk Alliance International Folk Music Award for Song of the Year (for “You Didn’t Call My Name.”)
2018, won Instrumentalist of the Year Award at the Americana Music Awards.
2018, won her second IBMA Award for Guitar Player of the Year (also won in 2017).
2019, released When You’re Ready album (Compass).
2021, formed bluegrass ensemble “Golden Highway” with Dominick Leslie (mandolin), Bronwyn Keith-Hynes (fiddle), Kyle Tuttle (banjo), and Shelby Means (bass).
2022, released Crooked Tree album (Nonesuch).
2023, won the Grammy award for best bluegrass album (for “Crooked Tree”). She was also nominated for “Best New Artist” at the Grammys.
2024, won the Grammy award for best bluegrass album (for “City of Gold”).

Tuttles, The

Posted on January 1, 2014September 14, 2018 by WR

THE TUTTLES (WITH A.J. LEE)

From Palo Alto, California.
A family band formed in 2008 by Jack Tuttle (fiddle & bass) and his three children Molly (15, banjo & guitar), Sullivan (12, guitar) and Michael (10, mandolin). Their association with another young musician A.J. Lee (10, mandolin) began at the California Bluegrass Association’s Father’s Day Festival at Grass Valley California.
2009, their rendition of “El Cumbachero” on YouTube went viral, with more than a million viewers by 2010.
Jack Tuttle has been a member of numerous bands including the Tall Timber Boys and Fog City Ramblers (bluegrass), the Gryphon Quintet and Front Porch Swing Band (swing), Emerald (Celtic) and the Mayfield String Band (old-time).
Jack Tuttle is well known around the San Francisco bay area as a fiddle teacher.
2011, released Introducing the Tuttles album (no label).
2012, Molly won first place at the Merlefest songwriting contest.
2013, released Endless Ocean album (no label).
2016, Molly formed her own band.
2017, Sullivan and A.J. Lee began performing with a Santa-Cruz based band called Blue Summit.

Twenty Three (23) String Band, The

Posted on January 1, 2014January 1, 2014 by WR

THE 23 STRING BAND

From Eastern Kentucky.
2011, won the RockyGrass Band Competition.
Members: Chris Shouse (guitar), Curtis Wilson (banjo), Dave Howard (mandolin), Scott Moore (fiddle), T. Martin Stam (bass).
They describe their music as “a bluegrass attack fueled by high-octane rock-n-roll energy and triple-distilled oldtimey roots.”
2011, released “Catch 23” album.

Twisted Pine

Posted on June 11, 2017July 13, 2017 by WR

TWISTED PINE

From Boston, MA.
Formed in 2013 by Berklee College of Music students: Kathleen Parks (fiddle), Dan Bui (mandolin), Ricky Mier (banjo), Chris Sartori (bass) and Rachel Sumner (guitar).
2014, won band contests at the Freshgrass and Thomas Point Beach Festivals.
They played weekly at a club called the Cantab Lounge in Cambridge, MA.
2016, banjo player Mier left the band.
2017, released self titled album (Signature Sounds).

Two High String Band

Posted on January 1, 2014December 14, 2021 by WR

TWO HIGH STRING BAND

From Austin, Texas.
Formed in 2005.
Core of the band: Billy Bright (mandolin), Brian Smith (guitar) and Geoff Union (guitar). Alan Munde (banjo) has been a part-time member of this band.
2003, released Insofarasmuch album (Blue Corn).
2006, released Moonshine Boogie album (no label).
2008, released Hot Texas Bluegrass Burrito album (no label).

Shadd, Allen

Posted on December 30, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

ALLEN SHADD

From Middleburg, Florida.
Played guitar with the Front Porch String Band, Mark Johnson and Clawgrass.
1997, won the National Guitar Championship at Winfield, Kansas.
1997, won 1st place at the First Annual Flatpick Guitar Contest held at Steve Kaufmann’s guitar camp.
He has also won guitar contests at Merlefest and Rockgrass.
He has performed with
1997, released solo project A Cut Above (Mid-Knight).
2013, won the National Guitar Championship at Winfield for the second time.
2014, released “Miles from the Hard Road” album (no label).

Shady Grove Band, The

Posted on December 30, 2013March 14, 2020 by WR

THE SHADY GROVE BAND

From Chapel Hill, North Carolina..
Formed in 1981 by Jerry Brown (guitar) and Charles Pettee (mandolin).
Have toured Europe several times.
Sponsored by the North Carolina Arts Council and the Southern Arts Federation.
Brown previously recorded with a Holland group called the Dixie Wondertones.
1987, released On the Line album (Flying Fish).
1993, released Mulberry Moon album (Flying Fish).
2001, released Out of the Blue album (BWR).

Shelasky, Paul

Posted on December 30, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

PAUL SHELASKY

From San Francisco.
Fiddler who has worked with the Good Old Persons (12 years), John Reischmann, David Grisman, Jann Browne, Laurie Lewis and Grant Street, Lost Highway, the Walden Dahl Band, the Rhythm Brothers (at Disneyland) and other California-based groups.
1975, 1981 won the California State Fiddle Championship.
1996-2004, played fiddle for Lost Highway.
1999, recorded a solo album called Fiddle-Crazy! (Lost Highway).
2004, joined the David Thom Band (a bay area group).
2008, formed Blue and Lonesome with Ed Neff and Larry Cohea, veterans of such bay area bands as High Country, the Vern Williams Band, etc.

Shelor, Sammy

Posted on December 30, 2013February 9, 2020 by WR

SAMMY SHELOR

From Ferrum, Virginia.
1967, started playing banjo at age 5. First band: Posey Boyd family band at age 16.
1980-81, played with Interstate Exchange (later became Summer Wages), and the Heights of Grass.
1983-1989, founding member of the Virginia Squires.
1990, joined the Lonesome River band
1992, did a six-month stint with the country group Matthews, Wright and King. Toured with Reba McIntyre.
1997, released first solo album Leading Roll (Sugar Hill).
2002, became the leader of the Lonesome River Band.
2012, won the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass.
2012, won his 5th IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year (also won in 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998).
2013, appeared on Alan Jackson’s Bluegrass album.

Shelton, Allen

Posted on December 30, 2013October 13, 2018 by WR

ALLEN SHELTON

From Reidsville, North Carolina.
Legendary banjo player who began his career with Mac Wiseman in the early fifties, also with Jim Eanes and the Shenandoah Valley Boys.
Best known for his work with Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys (1959-1966). He recorded 89 tracks with them during this period.
Left music to work as a pipe fitter at a nuclear power plant for the Tennessee Valley Authority—primarily to earn enough money to put his four kids through college. Returned to work again with Jim and Jesse in 1983 (playing the five-string Dobro™) and then retired from music again in 1989.
1977, released Shelton Special album (Rounder).
2004, came out of retirement to play with Jesse McReynolds.
2009, died of Leukemia at the age of 73.
2010, an album was released featuring Shelton’s most popular tunes At His Best (Gusto).
2018, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Shelton, Eddie

Posted on December 30, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

EDDIE SHELTON

From Temple, Texas.
1955 to 1963, played banjo with a Dallas group called the Country Cutups.
1965 to 1968, lived in Oklahoma City and played in various ensembles with Byron Berline, Bobby Clark, Vince Gill, David Ferguson, Buck White, Alan Munde, Johnny Sanders and other area musicians.
Alan Munde credits Eddie as a major influence on his playing.
1968, Lester Flatt invited Eddie to replace Earl Scruggs when Lester and Earl split up. Turned it down.
Performed for several years with Leon Valley Bluegrass, a band from Copperas Cove, Texas.
1977, released Expedition album (Ridge Runner).
Died December 31, 1999.

Shelton, James Alan

Posted on December 30, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

JAMES ALAN SHELTON

From Gate City, Virginia. Made his home in Church Hill, Tennessee.
Played guitar with such bands as the Bluegrass Travelers, the Larkin Brothers, the Southern Grass and Flint Hill before joining Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys in 1994. He also served as the band’s road manager.
He emulated the guitar style of his musical hero George Shuffler (lead guitarist with the Stanley Brothers).
1996, released Blue in the Blue Ridge album (Freeland).
1998, released Clinch Mountain Guitar album (Freeland).
1999, released Standing Room Only album (Freeland).
2002, released Songs for Greta album (Rebel).
2004, released Half Moon Bay album (Rebel).
2007, released Walking Down the Line album (Sheltone).
2010, released Where I’m Bound album (Sheltone).
When not on the road, he made hand-tooled, customised leather instrument straps, for guitar, banjo, and mandolin.
2014, died of cancer at the age of 53.

Shelton, Tim

Posted on December 30, 2013June 18, 2021 by WR

TIM SHELTON

From Carlisle, Ohio.
Began his career in gospel music. He worked at Renfro Valley with David Marshall (of the Marshall Family).
Did a brief stint as a member of Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers.
Had an Ohio-based gospel group called the Beacons.
2000, recorded a gospel album “I Stand Amazed” (Legend).
2001, formed NewFound Road as a bluegrass gospel group but eventually transitioned the group to a broader, more secular audience.
2013, disbanded NewFound Road to spend more time with his family and to pursue a solo career. He has also worked part-time with the Clay Hess Band, Trinity River Band, and Jesse Gregory.
2016, launched a podcast on iTunes called the Tim Shelton Show.
2016, teamed up with guitarist Clay Hess to form a group called The Surly Gentlemen.
2018, created a Christmas program called Tim Shelton’s Very Vintage Christmas featuring songs from Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby and other 1950’s-era holiday classics. He is also working with Heidi and Ryan Greer, and Tim Stafford of Blue Highway in a group called Sailor Street.
2020, formed the Tim Shelton Syndicate, a bluegrass band with some of his former Newfound Road bandmates.

Shenandoah Blue

Posted on December 30, 2013 by WR

SHENANDOAH BLUE

From Winchester, Virginia.
Formed in 2002 by Scott Walker and Dave Probst.
Walker (banjo) and Probst (mandolin) previously worked with Paul Adkins and the Borderline Band and Fastest Grass Alive.
Probst (leader/mandolin) formerly performed with Leon Morris, Paul Adkins, Special Blend, The Travelers.

Shotgun Holler

Posted on June 24, 2015April 17, 2017 by WR

SHOTGUN HOLLER

From Kentucky.
Formed in 2014 by Shawn Brock and Matt Jones.
Band members: Shawn Brock (mandolin), Matt Jones (guitar), Rod Lunger (bass), Nathan Treadway (banjo) and Alex Benefiel (fiddle). Band members live in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio.
They specialize in performing and recording songs with non-traditional themes.
2015, released first album Loaded (Lonesome Day/Dry Lightning)

Shuffler, George

Posted on December 29, 2013June 5, 2014 by WR

GEORGE SHUFFLER

From Valdese, North Carolina.
Best known as the man who made the guitar solo an integral part of the “Stanley Sound” when he was with The Stanley Brothers in the fifties and early sixties.
1950, was in a comedy group called Mustard and Gravy.
1951, worked in a band with Jim and Jesse McReynolds and Hoke Jenkins
Worked with the Stanley Brothers off and on throughout the 1950’s. Developed his “cross-picking” style on the guitar to compliment Carter’s singing. Many considered him “the third Stanley Brother.”
After Carter’s death in 1966, he worked with Ralph for a short time, then joined Don Reno and Bill Harrell until 1970.
1970, formed the Shuffler Family Band, with his brothers and children, playing traditional southern gospel music.
1996, received IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
1999, came out of retirement to work with Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys, playing bass (replaced Jack Cooke for several months, when Jack had health problems).
2011, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2014, died on April 7, four days shy of his 89th birthday.

Shiflett,Karl

Posted on December 30, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

KARL SHIFLETT (AND BIG COUNTRY SHOW)

From Longview, Texas.
First group: Stringbean and His Mountain Playboys (in high school).
Early career: he was a pipeline inspector for a major gas company and an aide for a state hospital.
1980-87, formed a group called Southern Heritage.
1990, joined the Sullivan Family (gospel group).
1993, formed Big Country, which eventually became known as Karl Shiflett and The Big Country Show.
Specializes in re-creating classic bluegrass circa 1949, with retro outfits, one mike, even toured in a 1947 Chrysler New Yorker with a string bass tied to the top.
1999, released Karl Shiflett & The Big Country Show album (Rebel).
2001, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2001, released In Full Color album (Rebel).
2003, released Worries on My Mind album (Rebel).
2012, released Take Me Back album (Pinecastle).

Shuler, Cody

Posted on December 29, 2013 by WR

CODY SHULER (SEE PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD)

Shumate, Jim

Posted on December 29, 2013 by WR

JIM SHUMATE

From Hickory, North Carolina.
Began playing fiddle at age 14. He is considered one of the pioneers of classic bluegrass fiddling. He is the only fiddler to have worked as a member of each of the first three “Hall of Fame” bluegrass acts: Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys (1943), The Stanley Brothers (1948) and Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys (1948).
1943-1945, played with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys. In Nashville, introduced Earl Scruggs (also from Hickory NC) to Bill Monroe.
1943, returned to the furniture business in Hickory.
1948, won the National Fiddlers Convention in Richlands, Virginia.
1948, worked briefly with the Stanley Brothers.
1948, joined Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys. Appeared on their first Mercury recordings.
Retired from life on the road to build furniture in the Hickory, NC area.
1980, recorded “Bluegrass Fiddle Supreme” (RSR Records) backed by the Blue River Boys.
1995, won the North Carolina Folk Heritage Award.
1999, appeared in the CNN TV Special “Grass Roots to Bluegrass.”
2011, was inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame.
Performed with his own band “Sons of the Carolinas.”
2013, died at the age of 91.

Sideline

Posted on December 29, 2013June 28, 2024 by WR

SIDELINE

From North Carolina.
Formed by Steve Dilling in 2010 as a part-time band to perform during open dates when his full-time band IIIrd Tyme Out was not touring. Original band: Dilling (banjo), Darrell Webb (mandolin, lead vocals) who fronts his own band, Skip Cherryholmes (guitar) who performs with Lou Reid and Carolina and is also Dilling’s son-in-law, Jason Moore (bass) who is a member of Mountain Heart, and Justin Haynes (fiddle) who is also in IIIrd Tyme Out. Haynes was later replaced by Greg Luck.
2013, released first album called Session 1 (Mountain Fever Records.)
2013, Dilling announced his retirement from IIIrd Tyme Out, making Sideline his primary musical outlet.
2014, Webb and Luck left the band. Dilling decided to make Sideline a full-time band (rather than just a “sideline”) so he hired musicians (and brothers) Brian Aldridge (mandolin) and Nathan Aldridge (fiddle) later in the year.
2015 lineup: Dilling (banjo), Cherryholmes (guitar), Moore (bass), Brian Aldridge (mandolin), Nathan Aldridge (fiddle), Brad Hudson (Dobro™).
2015, released second album Session 2 (Mountain Fever).
2016, Brian Aldridge left the group. He was replaced by Troy Boone.
2016, released Colors and Crossroads album (Mountain Fever).
2017, Hudson (reso guitar/vocals) left the group to pursue a solo career. Multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Bailey Coe (guitar) took his place. Coe was formerly a member of the Grass Cats.
2018, Nathan Aldridge (fiddle) left the band to join Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out. He was replaced by fiddler Daniel Greeson.
2018, released Front and Center album (Mountain Fever).
2019, Zack Arnold (mandolin; formerly with Claybank) replaced Troy Boone. Jamie Harper (fiddle; formerly with Junior Sisk) replaced Greeson.
2019, won the IBMA Award for Song of the Year (“Thunder Dan”).
2021, Nick Goad replaced Zack Arnold (mandolin). 2020 lineup: Dilling (banjo), Cherryholmes (guitar), Moore (bass), Goad (mandolin), Harper (fiddle) and Jacob Greer (guitar; formerly with Claybank).
2021, released Ups, Downs and No Name Towns album (Mountain Fever).
2021, bass player Jason Moore died at the age of 48 (heart attack).
2021, Greer left the band. New lineup: Dilling (banjo), Cherryholmes (guitar), Kyle Windbeck (bass), Goad (mandolin), Harper (fiddle) and Andy Buckner (guitar).
2023, stopped touring as a band but have continued to record.

Sidemen, The

Posted on December 29, 2013June 22, 2024 by WR

THE SIDEMEN

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1989 by a group of side musicians, most of whom worked regularly with other bands. They performed regularly on Tuesday nights at Nashville’s Station Inn.
Members included Terry Eldredge, Steve Thomas, Mike Bub, Mike Compton, Jimmy Campbell, Ronnie McCoury, Gene Wooten, Ed Dye, Kristin Scott Benson and Larry Perkins.
Disbanded in 2007.
Dierks Bentley often performed with this group.

Sidesaddle

Posted on December 29, 2013November 29, 2020 by WR

SIDESADDLE

From Saratoga, California (near San Jose).
Formed in 1979.
For 14 years, they were an all-female band. Went co-ed in 1993 and changed the name to Sidesaddle and Company.
Original members: Kim Elking (fiddle), Lisa Burns (bass) and Lee Anne Welch (mandolin). Other members: Beth McNamara (bass), Jerry Ashford (guitar), Bob Smith (banjo).
1991, released Daylight Train album (Turquoise).

Silver, Chris

Posted on December 29, 2013January 15, 2021 by WR

CHRIS SILVER

From River Falls, Wisconsin.
1987-1992, played guitar and mandolin with Stoney Lonesome.
Mid-1990’s, toured with Kate McKenzie.
1993, released solo project “Over Time.”
Late-1990’s, formed two bands: Tangled Roots (bluegrass) and Ruby Boots (country/acoustic.)
2003, recorded “Souls and Spirits” album.

Simpkins, Rickie

Posted on December 29, 2013June 29, 2020 by WR

RICKIE SIMPKINS

From Christiansburg, Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
Learned fiddle at age six.
Age 9, played fiddle on stage with Flatt and Scruggs in his home town.
First band: Upland Express (recorded one album for Leather Records in 1979.) His brother Ronnie was also in this band.
1979, joined the McPeak Brothers.
1981, joined the Heights of Grass which morphed into the Virginia Squires (with brother Ronnie, Mark Newton and Sammy Shelor).
1983, joined the Tony Rice Unit.
1996, joined David Parmley, Scott Vestal and Continental Divide.
1997, released Dancing on the Fingerboard album (Pinecastle).
2000, joined the Lonesome River Band.
2001, joined the Isaacs.
2002, toured with the Gaithers.
2002, released Don’t Fret It album (Doobie Shea).
2008, was inducted into the Virginia Music Hall of Fame.
2008, began touring with Emmylou Harris and Her Red Dirt Boys.

Simpson,, Sturgill

Posted on December 29, 2020August 26, 2021 by WR

STURGILL SIMPSON

From Jackson, Kentucky; grew up in Lexington. Lives in Nashville.
2004, after serving in the U.S. Navy, he formed a country-rock band in Seattle, Washington called Sunday Valley.
2012, moved to Nashville and recorded his first album High Top Mountain (no label).
2014, released Metamodern Sounds of Country Music (High Top Mountain Music). Made guest appearances on Late Night with David Letterman, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Conan O’Brien Show and several other late night programs.
2015, toured with Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard.
2016, released A Sailor’s Guide to Earth album (Atlantic).
2018, he acted in the movie Orca Park. Since then, he has acted in several other films.
2019, released Sound and Fury album (Elektra).
2020, released two bluegrass albums, Cuttin’ Grass Volume 1 and Cuttin’ Grass Volume 2 (High Top Mountain).
2021, released a third bluegrass album, The Ballad of Dood and Juanita (High Top Mountain).

Sims, Benny

Posted on December 29, 2013 by WR

BENNY SIMS

From Johnson City, Tennessee.
One of the pioneers of bluegrass fiddling. Began his career in the 1940’s with the Morris Brothers, Wiley and Zeke.
1949, was a founding members of Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs’ band The Foggy Mountain Boys. Playe with them for about a year.
He played fiddle and sang lead on the classic F&S recording of “Salty Dog Blues.” He also played fiddle on the classic F&S recording of “Foggy Mountain Breakdown.”
He also worked with Roy Acuff and Bill Monroe.
1982, released an album of fiddle tunes with banjo player E.C. Miller, “Bluegrass on the Mountain.”

Singleton, Emily

Posted on December 29, 2013 by WR

EMILY SINGLETON (AND CUMBERLAND PLATEAU)

From Bell Buckle, Tennessee.
A vocalist who performs with her band Cumberland Plateau. Her sister Teressa also sings with her.
Her husband Dave Higgs plays guitar in the band. He is also co-owner of Bell Buckle Records and has a syndicated radio program “Bluegrass Breakdown.”

Sisk, Junior

Posted on December 29, 2013December 20, 2023 by WR

JUNIOR SISK (AND RAMBLER’S CHOICE)

From Ferrum, Virginia (born in Arlington).
Began performing at age 16, playing bass with local bands around Virginia. Eventually switched to guitar.
1995, worked with Wyatt Rice and Santa Cruz with his cousin, Tim Massey (a successful bluegrass songwriter).
1998-2001, lead singer with Rambler’s Choice, a band he formed with Massey, Elmer Burchett, Jimmy VanCleve and Allan Perdue.
1998, was featured on the Doobie Shea “A Stanley Tradition” album.
2001, he and his wife Susan were in a serious auto accident. He suffered minor injuries, but his wife had multiple surgeries and a long recovery.
2001, worked with the Lost and Found.
2002, joined Baucom, Bibey and BlueRidge.
2007, re-formed Rambler’s Choice with Massey, Darrell Wilkerson (banjo), Chris Harris (mandolin), and Billy Hawks (fiddle).
2008, released Blue Side of the Blue Ridge album (Rebel).
2010 released Heartaches and Dreams album (Rebel).
2011, released The Heart of a Song album (Rebel).
2013, released The Story of the Day That I Died album (Rebel).
2012, won IBMA Award for Song of the Year (“A Far Cry from Lester and Earl”) and Album of the Year (“The Heart of a Song”).
2013, won IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
2013, released an album of duets with Joe Mullins Hall of Fame Bluegrass (Rebel).
2014, released Trouble Follows Me album (Rebel).
2016, won IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year for “Longneck Blues” (with Ronnie Bowman).
2017, released The Mountains Are Calling Me Home album (Mountain Fever)
2018, disbanded Ramblers Choice. Band members Jason Davis (banjo) and Kameron Keller (bass) formed a new band with several members of the Boxcars (also recently disbanded) called the Highland Travelers.
2018, released Brand New Shade of Blue album (Mountain Fever).
2022, released Lost and Alone album (Mountain Fever).
2023, his band included Heather Berry Mabe (guitar), Tony Mabe (banjo), Jonathan Dillon (mandolin), and Curt Love (bass). They also perform on their own as Red Camel Collective.

Sister Sadie

Posted on April 6, 2016September 30, 2024 by WR

SISTER SADIE

From Nashville and various locations in the bluegrass heartland.
A all-female band that formed in 2012 after an impromptu jam session at the Station Inn in Nashville.
Original members: Dale Ann Bradley (guitar), Tina Adair (mandolin), Deanie Richardson (fiddle), Gena Britt (banjo) and Beth Lawrence (bass).
2016, released self titled album (Pinecastle).
2019, released Sister Sadie II album (Pinecastle). This album was nominated for a Grammy Award.
2019, won the IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year.
2020, won IBMA Awards for Entertainer of the Year and Vocal Group of the Year.
2020, Dale Ann Bradley left the group to give more attention to her solo career.
2021, Jaelee Roberts (guitar) and Hasee Ciaccio (bass) joined the band.
2021, the group was featured in a special exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum called American Currents: State of the Music.
2022, Mary Meyer (mandolin) joined the band, replacing Tina Adair who left to pursue her solo career.
2023, Meyer left the band and was replaced by Dani Flowers (guitar). Also, Maddie Dalton (bass) replaced Ciaccio.

Sitze Family, The

Posted on December 29, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

THE SITZE FAMILY

From Fredericktown, Missouri.
Formed in 1990.
Denny (guitar) and Candy Sitze and their three sons: Dennijo (mandolin), Chad (banjo) and Andy (bass).
1994, won the “National Old Time Band Championship” (National Traditional Country Music Association).
1996, won the Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
1997, released “Time Flies By” album (no label).
1999, released “Livin’ in the Real World” album (Homeplace).
2001, released From Within album (Three Hills).
2004, released “Witness” album (no label).

Sizemore, Charlie

Posted on December 29, 2013February 2, 2024 by WR

CHARLIE SIZEMORE

From Magoffin County, (eastern) Kentucky.
1976, began performing with his father in a local bluegrass band and also worked briefly with the Goins Brothers.
1997, at age 17 replaced Keith Whitley as guitarist and lead singer with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys (1977-86).
1986, left the Clinch Mountain Boys to form his own band and to return to school.
1986, released first album “Congratulations” (Acoustic Revival).
1988, released “Gravel Road” album (Rutabaga).
1989, released “Call of the Honky Tonk” album (Rutabaga).
1989, released “Singing with the Angels” album (Rutabaga).
1990, graduated from the University of Kentucky at the top of his class. The only bluegrass artist to play the Grand Ole Opry and deliver a college commencement address—all in the same year.
1990, released “I’ve Got a Good Memory” album (Rutabaga).
After college, he moved to Nashville and wrote songs for Paul Craft Music. His songs have been recorded by Ralph Stanley, Jimmy Martin, Doyle Lawson and others.
1994, released Back Home album (Rebel).
After finishing law school in 1994, he opened a private law firm in Goodlettsville, Tennessee and began his career as an attorney. He continued to make recordings and occasional performances.
1996, released In My View album (Rebel).
2002, released The Story Is … The Songs of Tom T. Hall album (Rebel).
2007, put his law practice on hold and returned to performing with the release of his Good News album (Rounder).
2010, released Heartache Looking For A Home album (Rounder).
2024, he was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.

Sizemore, Herschel

Posted on December 29, 2013September 10, 2022 by WR

HERSCHEL SIZEMORE

From Leighton, Alabama (near Muscle Shoals). Lives in Roanoke, Virginia.
1957-1965, played mandolin with the Alabama-based group, The Dixie Gentlemen (with Jake Landers and Rual Yarbrough). Recorded for United Artists.
Other bands: The Boys from Shiloh (‘66), Jimmy Martin (‘67-68), The Shenandoah Cut-ups (‘69-74), Country Grass (‘74-’76), Del McCoury’s Dixie Pals (‘78-’79), The Bluegrass Cardinals (‘91-’95).
1995, formed the Herschel Sizemore Band.
Is best known for his classic mandolin instrumental “Rebecca,” named after his mother.
2012, “Mandolin in B,” a documentary film about his life and music was released.
2022, he died at the age of 87.

Skaggs, Ricky

Posted on December 29, 2013April 10, 2021 by WR

RICKY SKAGGS (AND KENTUCKY THUNDER)

From Brushy Creek (near Cordell), Kentucky.
Learned to play mandolin at age 5.
Age 7, performed on Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs’ TV show.
First pro job: age 15 with Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys. Keith Whitley also was in that group.
1970, he and Whitley recorded a duet album called Second Generation Bluegrass.
1971-73, lived in Washington D.C. and worked with the Country Gentlemen, playing fiddle. He dropped out of high school and never finished. In 2020, Lawrence County High School in Louisa, KY awarded him an honorary high school diploma.
1974, played mandolin and fiddle in J.D. Crowe’s band, The New South.
1975, formed Boone Creek with Terry Baucom, Jerry Douglas and Wes Golding.
1978, left Boone Creek to join Emmylou Harris’ Hot Band singing background vocals and playing guitar, fiddle and mandolin.
1979, recorded Sweet Temptation album (Sugar Hill) which launched his career in country music.
1982, won CMA Horizon award and Male Vocalist of the Year award.
1982, married Sharon White (of the Whites). They have four children.
1984, joined the Grand Ole Opry.
1985, won CMA award for Entertainer of the Year.
His recording of Bill Monroe’s “Uncle Pen” was the first bluegrass recording to make #1 on the country charts since “The Ballad of Jed Clampett.
As a country artist, he had 18 top ten songs, 12 number one hits, 8 Grammies, 8 CMA Awards, 4 gold albums, 1 platinum album.
1995-97, hosted TNN’s “Live at the Ryman” series.
1996, formed new bluegrass band Kentucky Thunder.
1997, released Bluegrass Rules, his first bluegrass album since “Family and Friends” (1982). This album won Album of the Year (IBMA).
Hosted the IBMA Awards show for four consecutive years (1995-1998). Also co-hosted the show in 2002 with Patty Loveless and in 2005 with Alison Krauss.
2003, performed and recorded with Doc Watson and Earl Scruggs as The Three Pickers. The live concert was televised nationally on PBS.
2004, inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame (in Renfro Valley).
2004, became Dr. Ricky Skaggs. He was awarded an honorary doctorate of humanities from Eastern Kentucky University.
2006, he and his band Kentucky Thunder won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year for the 8th time in 9 years. (1998-2006. In 2001, the award was won by Nickel Creek.)
2008, won the Grammy (his 13th) for Salt of the Earth with the Whites (Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel).
2009, won the Grammy (his 14th) for Best Bluegrass Album: Honoring the Fathers of Bluegrass: Tribute to 1946 & 1947.
2011, won Entertainer of the Year at the ICM (Inspirational Country Music) Awards.
2013, released live album with Bruce Hornsby.
2013, his autobiography Kentucky Traveler (with writer Eddie Dean) was published.
2018, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2018, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2021, was awarded the Presidential Medal of the Arts from President Donald Trump.
Hobbies: photography, fishing, collecting pocketwatches, old Marx Brothers and Three Stooges videos.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

That’s It (Rebel, 1975) This is Ricky’s first album of bluegrass songs, showing the promise that would lead to superstardom ten years later.
Sweet Temptation (Sugar Hill, 1979) Ricky shocked his fans by adding steel guitars and drums to several songs but this album launched his career in country music.
Skaggs & Rice (Rounder, 1980) This is a re-issue of a classic album of country duets with Tony Rice.
Family & Friends (Rounder, 1982) A classic bluegrass album released after he had signed with Epic Records. Features the Whites, Jerry Douglas and other top musicians.
Bluegrass Rules (Rounder, 1997) This is the album that kicked off Ricky’s Kentucky Thunder years. Won the IBMA Award for “Album of the Year.” Features Bryan Sutton on guitar and Marc Pruett on banjo.
Soldier Of The Cross (Skaggs Family, 1999) Gospel songs. Some incredible harmony vocals throughout by Ricky, Paul Brewster and Darren Vincent.
Ancient Tones (Skaggs Family, 1999) Won the Bluegrass Grammy Award in 2000.
Sing the Songs of Bill Monroe (Skaggs Family, 2000) Originally titled “Big Mon: The Songs of Bill Monroe,” this album features Skaggs and his band with guests John Fogarty, Dwight Yoakum, Patty Loveless, Bruce Hornsby, the Dixie Chicks, Charlie Daniels, etc.
History of the Future (Skaggs Family, 2001)
The Three Pickers (Rounder, 2003) Ricky performs live in concert with Earl Scruggs and Doc Watson. A DVD of this concert is also available.
Live at the Charleston Music Hall (Skaggs Family, 2003) Great live recording capturing the feel of Skaggs and his band at their peak.
Brand New Strings (Skaggs Family, 2004) Won the Bluegrass Grammy Award in 2005.
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder: Instrumentals (Skaggs Family, 2006) Bluegrass and Celtic instrumentals. Won the Bluegrass Grammy Award in 2007.
Ricky Skaggs & Bruce Hornsby (Skaggs Family, 2007) First collaboration between Skaggs and Hornsby with Kentucky Thunder. Bluegrass piano at its best.
Salt of the Earth (Skaggs Family, 2007) Ricky and the Whites. This album won a Grammy in the country Gospel category.
Honoring the Fathers of Bluegrass: Tribute to 1946 & 1947 (Skaggs Family, 2008) The “Fathers” are of course Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs and the Stanley Brothers. This album won the Bluegrass Grammy award in 2009.
Songs My Dad Loved (Skaggs Family, 2009) Ricky sings self-accompanied on guitar, mandolin, banjo. No band.
Country Hits: Bluegrass Style (Skaggs Family, 2011). The title says it all. This originally came out on Cracker Barrel Records.
Music To My Ears (Skaggs Family, 2013) Contemporary gospel feel to this album.
Cluck Ol’ Hen (Skaggs Family, 2014) Great live recording featuring Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby with Kentucky Thunder.
Hearts Like Ours (Skaggs Family, 2014) This is an album of duets with his wife, Sharon (White).

Skeeter and the Skidmarks

Posted on December 29, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

SKEETER AND THE SKIDMARKS

From Virginia.
Formed in 1992 by Willard Gayheart and his son-in-law, Scott Freeman.
Performed both bluegrass and old-time music, featuring the clawhammer banjo of Edwin Lacey.
1996, released one album Hubbin It (Hay Holler).
Disbanded in 1997.
Gayheart and Freeman formed a new group, Alternate Roots.
Gayheart is also an accomplished pencil artist, with a gallery in Woodlawn, Virginia.
Lacey went to seminary and became a Presbyterian minister in Indiana.
2012, Lacey and Freeman recorded a duet album called “Siamese Cousins.”

Skip Hop and Wobble

Posted on December 29, 2013December 29, 2015 by WR

SKIP, HOP AND WOBBLE

A project band featuring Jerry Douglas (Dobro™), Russ Barenberg (guitar) and Edgar Meyer (bass).
The name comes from the title of a 1957 Jimmy Martin song.
1994, released Skip, Hop And Wobble album (Sugar Hill), Sam Bush played mandolin.

Skyline

Posted on December 29, 2013July 6, 2024 by WR

SKYLINE

From New York City.
Formed in 1980 by Tony Trischka (banjo), Larry Cohen (bass), Dede Wyland (vocals), Danny Weiss (guitar), and Barry Mitterhof (mandolin). Wyland left the group in 1988 and was replaced by Rachel Kalem.
1981, released “Late to Work” album (Flying Fish).
1984, released “Stranded in the Moonlight” album (Flying Fish).
1986, released Skyline Drive album (Flying Fish).
1989, released Fire of Grace album (Flying Fish). The group disbanded shortly after the release of this album.

Slaughter, Shannon (and Heather)

Posted on December 29, 2013February 17, 2022 by WR

SHANNON SLAUGHTER

From Chiefland, Florida.
1992, began professional career playing guitar with the Lost and Found.
1992-1995, joined the Larry Stephenson Band.
2005-2007, joined the Lonesome River Band.
2007, joined Lou Reid and Carolina.
2009, worked with Melonie Cannon.
2010, formed his own band County Clare.
2011, released solo project The Sideman Steps Out (no label).
2013, released album One More Road (no label) with his wife Heather and County Clare.
2013, announced new lineup for his band County Clare: Jesse Daniel (Mandolin, Dobro™), Casey Foster (Banjo, Guitar), Cliff Bailey (Bass), and Stephen Burwell (fiddle). Wife Heather performs with the band on a limited basis due to the arrival of a new baby girl.
2014, joined Grasstowne.
2015, released Shannon and Heather Slaughter album Never Just a Song (no label).
2017, released solo project Never Standing Still (Elite Circuit).
2010, released solo project Hold On to Your Heart (no label).

Slay, Scott

Posted on April 14, 2019January 15, 2021 by WR

SCOTT SLAY (AND THE RAIL)

From Denver Colorado. Originally from Pensacola, Florida.
2012, was in a band with Sammy Shelor (of the Lonesome River Band) called Big Virginia Sky. They released one self-titled album in 2015. He played mandolin.
2016, formed his own group Scott Slay and the Rail, playing guitar.
2018, was a featured band at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the IBMA World of Bluegrass.
2018, Scott won 2nd place in the guitar and mandolin instrumental performance competition at the Rockygrass festival.
2019, released The Rail album (Bonfire) with guest artists, Sierra Hull, Sammy Shelor, Jim VanCleve, Mike Munford, Josh Shilling, Brandon Rickman, Aaron Ramsey and others.
2021, released Mine All Mine album (Bonfire).

Sleepy Man Banjo Boys, The

Posted on December 29, 2013December 8, 2015 by WR

THE SLEEPY MAN (BANJO BOYS)

From Lebanon Township, Western New Jersey.
Three brothers: Tommy (age 14, guitar), Robbie (age 13, fiddle) and Jonnie (age 9, banjo) Mizzone (ages as of July 2012).
2011, they uploaded their bedroom “practice videos” to YouTube. They went viral and received over 10 million views the first year alone.
The name Sleepy Man Banjo Boys resulted from Jonnie’s habit of playing the banjo lying on his back on his bed and falling asleep. The boys say the name also comes from Psalm 4 which teaches that “sleep comes when your heart is right with God.”
2011, appeared on the David Letterman show, Ellen DeGeneres, NBC Today Show, Mike Huckabee show, the Grand Ole Opry and numerous music festivals.
2012, released “America’s Music” album, debuting at #8 on the Billboard Album Chart.
2012, performed a tribute to Earl Scruggs on the IBMA Awards Show at the Ryman Auditorium, introduced by Steve Martin and joined by dozens of legendary bluegrass musicians.
2013, played Carnegie Hall.
2015, changed their name to Sleepy Man.

Slocan Ramblers, The

Posted on July 27, 2015March 11, 2022 by WR

THE SLOCAN RAMBLERS

From Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Original members: Frank Evans (banjo), Adrian Gross (mandolin), Darryl Poulsen (guitar) and Alastair Whitehead (bass). Charles James replaced Whitehead on bass.
2014, released debut album Shaking Down the Acorns (SloMusic).
2015, released Coffee Creek album (SloMusic), produced by Chris Coole of the Foggy Hogtown Boys and the Lonesome Ace Stringband.
2018, released Queen City Jubilee album (SloMusic).
2020, received the IBMA Momentum Award for Band of the Year.

Slo-Grass

Posted on December 29, 2013December 29, 2013 by WR

SLO-GRASS

From central Massachusetts.
Formed in 1989 by Mark Davis (guitar), Fran McConville (mandolin) and David DiBiasio (fiddle). Bob Dick (bass) joined them in 1993.
The play a mix of bluegrass, blues, jazz, folk and world music.
Their name originally had to do with the tempo of the fiddle tunes they played and also a mindset, of slowing things down. Or, an acronym that fits: Sustainable, local and organic.
They have recorded 3 albums (as of 2013).

Slone, Josh

Posted on December 29, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

JOSH SLONE AND COAL TOWN

From Hindman, Kentucky (Coal mining region of East Kentucky).
Formed his band Coal Town in 2007.
Members: Josh Slone (guitar), Ollie Risner (banjo), Billy Berger (mandolin), Gary Wiley (bass.)
2011, released first album Josh Slone & Coaltown (Rural Rhythm).

Smathers, Jesse

Posted on November 13, 2021May 14, 2022 by WR

JESSE SMATHERS

From Eden, North Carolina. Lives in Floyd, VA.
2009, won the guitar championship from the Virginia Folk Music Association.
2010, after graduation from high school, joined the James King band playing mandolin.
2014, joined Nothin’ Fancy.
2015, joined the Lonesome River Band, playing mandolin. In 2021, switched to guitar.
2021, released first single as a solo artist “Nothing In the World To Do” (written during the pandemic in 2020).
2022, released self-titled album (no label).

Smith, Billy and Terry

Posted on December 29, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

BILLY AND TERRY SMITH (THE SMITH BROTHERS)

From Nashville, Tennessee (originally from Reidsville, North Carolina).
Billy plays guitar, Terry plays bass.
Terry played bass for several years with the Osborne Brothers.
After coming to Nashville in the early 70’s, they worked on Bill Monroe’s farm.
Have recorded several albums for the K-Tel label including Long Live the Dead – A Tribute to the Grateful Dead.
Bill Monroe’s last recording was made with the Smith Brothers (2/21/96). He sang “Blue Moon on Kentucky” and played mandolin on their Bill Monroe Tribute album (K-Tel). Two days later he was hospitalized, and never returned to performing.
2004, Terry was a founding member of the Grascals, playing bass.
Billy has written or co-written dozens of songs which have been recorded by Del McCoury, Bill Monroe, the Osborne Brothers, Dan Tyminski, the Seldom Scene, the Lonesome River Band, Doyle Lawson, IIIrd Tyme Out, Rock County, Dale Ann Bradley, James King, many others.
2009, Billy released a solo project called Live From the Moose Lodge (no label) under the name Billy Boone Smith.

Smith, Craig

Posted on December 29, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

CRAIG SMITH

From San Bernardino, California. Lives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
One of bluegrass music’s top session banjo players.
1976, played with a California group called Wild Hickory Nuts.
Moved east to work with The Country Gentlemen, Charlie Moore, Jim Eanes.
1980, formed Summer Wages.
1990, formed ASH & W.
1997, released Craig Smith album (Rounder).
1998, joined Laurie Lewis’ Bluegrass Pals.

Smith, Dick and Mike O’Reilly Band

Posted on December 28, 2013August 7, 2022 by WR

DICK SMITH & MIKE O’REILLY BAND

From Alexandria, Virginia.
Dick Smith (banjo) has also worked with The Country Store, The Del McCoury Band, The Country Gentlemen, The Lynn Morris Band, Bill Clifton and others.
Mike O’Reilly (guitar), a Canadian, is a bluegrass DJ and emcees many bluegrass festivals and events. Has also worked with his band Cody and is a multiple recipient of the Entertainer of the Year Award at the Canadian Bluegrass Awards.
Ray Legere (fiddle/mandolin) is a member of this band.
1998, released Dick Smith & Mike O’Reilly Band album (New Era).
2005, released “A Honky Tonk Frame of Mind” album (New Era).
2005, released “Life’s Road” album (New Era).
2008, released On The Town album (no label).
2021, O’Reilly died at the age of 76.
2022, Smith died at the age of 78.

Smith, Emma

Posted on August 31, 2020 by WR

EMMA SMITH

From Hindman, Kentucky.
Began singing Gospel music and playing guitar while in her teens, influenced heavily by Molly O’Day and Loretta Lynn. Made early appearances on radio station WKCB in Hindman and on TV in nearby Hazard.
1972, recorded first album “Angel Mother” (Majesty).
Larry Sparks began performing some of her songs which led to her recording contract with Old Homestead Records.
1981, released “Hazard” album (Old Homestead) and a gospel album “Ship from King’s Harbor Shore” (Old Homestead).
1984, she recorded on albums by Larry Sparks, Dave Evans, Kenny Baker and Josh Graves.
1989, released “I Will Sing Of My Redeemer” album (Old Homestead).
1991 released “Memories” album (Old Homestead)
1992, released albums “Back To The Basics” (Old Homestead).
1995, released “The Mighty Captain” album with Terri Caldwell (Old Homestead).
2003, released “Coal Dust Country” album (Old Homestead) and “That Little White Church” album (Old Homestead).
She was awarded “Songwriter of the Year” and “Female Vocalist of the Year” (traditional category) by SPBGMA.
She retired to live with her family in Florida.

Smith, Fred E.

Posted on December 28, 2013 by WR

FRED E. SMITH

From Marshall, North Carolina.
A legendary country comedian and guitarist who with his cousin Red Rector (mandolin) performed as “Red and Fred.”
1942, recorded in New York City the “Old Chisholm Trail” with Woody Guthrie, Burl Ives, J.E. and Wade Mainer for the BBC.
Also worked with Archie Campbell, Boots Randolph, Grandpa Jones, Kenny Baker, Jimmy Martin and many other country and bluegrass artists.
During the last years of his life performed at the Comedy Barn in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and recorded with the VW Boys.
2006, passed away at the age of 81.

Smith, Gerald

Posted on January 22, 2021June 22, 2023 by WR

GERALD SMITH

From Statesboro, Georgia. Has lived in Nashville since 1986.
He is a singer/songwriter with several number one songs to his credit including “What Part of No” (Lorrie Morgan) and “Every Minute” (Collin Raye). His songs have been recorded by dozens of country and bluegrass artists.
He was a regular on the “Hee Haw” television show. He was called “The Georgia Quacker” because of his ability to make realistic duck calls using just his hands and mouth.
He has written numerous humor and novelty songs like “You Play Like Chet” and “Where There’s a Will (There’s a Relative).”
2021, he released Where There’s a Will album (no label), featuring bluegrass covers of many of his songs.

Smith, Kenny and Amanda

Posted on December 28, 2013March 4, 2021 by WR

KENNY AND AMANDA SMITH

Kenny is from Nine Mile, Indiana. Amanda is from Davisville, West Virginia. They live in Meadows of Dan, Virginia.
1992, Kenny won the guitar contest at Merlefest. Placed at Winfield in ‘92, ‘93, and ‘94.
1993-4, Kenny was a member of Claire Lynch’s Front Porch String Band.
1994, Kenny joined the Lonesome River Band.
1997, Kenny released first solo album Studebaker (Sugar Hill).
Kenny’s hobby: collecting old glass marbles and restoring bicycles.
1998, 1999, Kenny won IBMA award for Guitar Player of the Year.
2001, Kenny left the Lonesome River Band to perform in a duo with his wife Amanda. They met in 1995 at a Lonesome River Band concert and married soon thereafter.
2003, Kenny and Amanda won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2004, released House Down the Block album (Rebel).
2005, released Always Never Enough album (Rebel).
2007, released Tell Someone album (Rebel).
2008, released Live & Learn album (Rebel).
2011, Kenny released his second guitar solo project “Return” (GAT-3).
2012, released “Catch Me If I Try” album (Farmboy).
2012, Kenny reunited with Ronnie Bowman and Don Rigsby (former bandmates in the the Lonesome River Band) to form The Band of Ruhks.
2014, Amanda won the IBMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year

Smith, Tim

Posted on December 28, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

TIM SMITH

From Kernersville, North Carolina.
Began playing fiddle at age 10. Had a group in high school called The Country Five and The Teenage Travelers.
1974, won first place in fiddle contest at Lester Flatt’s Pinnacle, NC festival, which entitled him to play with Lester and the Nashville Grass on the Grand Ole Opry.
1977, won first place in the fiddle contest at Galax, Virginia.
1978, won first place in the fiddle contest at Union Grove. North Carolina.
1975-1978, worked with L.W. Lambert and the Blue River Boys.
1976, worked with a Florida group called the Poindexter Band.
1979-1982, worked with The Bluegrass Cardinals.
During the 80’s and 90’s, he free-lanced with Bill Monroe, Jim and Jesse, Del McCoury, the Lost and Found, the Virginia Squires, Larry Stephenson, Wes Golding, The Country Gentlemen, the McPeak Brothers, Jim Eanes, Blue Ridge and other bands.
2000, formed a new band with Les Deaton, Eric Ellis and Wes Golding called First in Line.
2007, joined the Gospel group The Churchmen.
2010, joined Rich in Tradition.
Has his own record company TRS Records. He has recorded six solo albums: “1978 World Champion Fiddler”, “Favorite Pastimes”, “Straight From The Heart”, “Plain and Simple”, “The Lonesome Blueridge” and “Fiddler Tim Smith & Friends.” on the TRS Records label.

Smith, Valerie

Posted on December 28, 2013August 28, 2021 by WR

VALERIE SMITH (AND LIBERTY PIKE)

From Holt, Missouri. Lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Began performing at age 11 at the Gas Station Garage in her hometown.
While in high school, she performed on shows with Vince Gill, John McEuen and Vern Gosdin.
Studied at the University of Missouri’s Conservatory of Music. Graduated in 1989.
Was an elementary school teacher before moving to Nashville in 1992.
Performs regularly at the Bell Buckle Cafe and Music Parlor (in Bell Buckle, Tennessee).
1997, first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry as a guest of Charlie Louvin.
1997, recorded first album Patchwork Heart (Bell Buckle), produced by Alan O’Bryant.
1998, formed her band Liberty Pike.
2000, released Turtle Wings album (Bell Buckle).
2001, Valerie’s mandolin player Eddie Lee Miller died in an auto accident on the way to the IBMA trade show in Louisville.
2002, released No Summer Storm album (Bell Buckle).
2005, Valerie and her band performed on the sound track to “Bell Witch: the Movie.”
2006, released Wash Away Your Troubles album (Bell Buckle).
2006, underwent surgery to remove cysts from her vocal chords. After several months of rehabilitation, she returned to performing with her band.
2008, recorded an album of duets with Becky Buller who was a member of her band at the time, Here’s a Little Song (Bell Buckle).
2008, released That’s What Love Can Do album (Bell Buckle).
2014, released The Human Condition album (Bell Buckle).
2016, released “Small Town Heroes” album (Bell Buckle).
2021, released “Renaissance” album (Bill Buckle).

Smoak, Jim

Posted on December 28, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

JIM SMOAK

From Walterboro, South Carolina. Currently lives in Pekin, Indiana (near Louisville.)
Learned to play banjo from listening to the original three-finger style banjo player, Snuffy Jenkins.
At Age 18, moved to Knoxville, TN and worked with Carl & Perl Butler on the Cas Walker Show (WROL Radio).
1952, played banjo with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys. He left when Monroe was injured in an auto accident (January 1953).
1953, worked with Jimmy Dickens until Monroe was able to start working again (December 1953).
1953-1954, worked with Bill Monroe and recorded several classics with him including “Close By” and “My Little Georgia Rose.”
1954-1955, worked with Arthur Smith (replacing Don Reno who formed a band with Red Smiley).
1955-1957, served in the U.S. Army.
1957-1960, played banjo with Hylo Brown and the Timberliners (Earl Scruggs recommended him for the job).
1960-1962, moved to Baton Rouge the second time (he had previously worked there following his stint with Monroe in 1954) and formed his own band, Jim Smoak and the Louisiana Honeydrippers, recording two albums Bayou Bluegrass and “Louisiana Bluegrass.”
1962-1973, moved to Alexandria, Louisiana and with Harold and Betty Thom, formed the Cumberlands, a folk group.
In the 1970’s, authored several popular banjo instruction books.
1979, recorded “Moonshine Sonata” CD.
As a songwriter, his songs have been covered by the New Grass Revival, J.D. Crowe & the New South, and the Dixie Chicks. Songs include “This Heart of Mine,” “You Can Share My Blanket,” “Cold Sailor” and “Colly Davis”
1982-2003, performed at the Old Stable Restaurant in Bardstown, Kentucky with a group called the Mountain Dew Hillbillies.
2004, released Carolina Boy album (Copper Creek).
2008, released “The Orange Blossom Special” album (no label).
2013, released solo project Smoak House Jam (no label).

Smokey River Boys

Posted on December 28, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

SMOKEY RIVER BOYS

From Nashville.
A “trademarked” recording group that has been the property of MCA (Decca) records since 1950. The original group included Lefty Jenkins, Luke Rogers, Sonny Wyatt and Bill Jackson, all of whom are now deceased. They were also stunt men in Hollywood westerns.
The second generation of Smokey River Boys were trademarked by MCA/Universal in 1963. They recorded two albums called “Dueling Banjos” and “Best of Banjo” which were marketed as a Time-Life series and sold through Readers Digest. They were re-released in 1999 by MCA/Universal as a result of the popularity of the movie “O Brother Where Art Thou.” As of 2002, only two members of that group were still alive, Larry Lee and Len Chapman.
The 2002 (third generation) of the Smokey River Boys includes Robert Metzger, Stephen Hill, Woody Wright and Doug Clements. Still on MCA/Universal, they released a single with the title “O Brother” which entered the Billboard charts in November 2002 at #37. Their publisher is Walt Disney Music.

Snider, Mike

Posted on December 28, 2013October 17, 2022 by WR

MIKE SNIDER

From Gleason, Tennessee.
A member of the Grand Old Opry since 1990.
He was a regular on the Hee Haw television show.
1983, won the national banjo championship in Winfield, Kansas.
He is also a gifted comedian and storyteller.
His entire home town (Gleason, Tennessee) came to Nashville to watch him perform for the first time on the Grand Ole Opry.
Known for his heavy southern drawl: “Heck no, it ain’t no put-on! My daddy’s talked like this all his life,” he says.
Has released several albums on his own record label (Tater Tot).

Snyder Family Band, The

Posted on December 28, 2013November 20, 2020 by WR

THE SNYDER FAMILY BAND

From Lexington, North Carolina.
A family band featuring Bud Snyder (bass), his son Zeb (guitar and banjo) and daughter Samantha (fiddle).
2010, released first album Comin’ On Strong (no label) when Zeb was 14 and Samantha was 10.
2011, released Stages album (no label).
2013, released Building Bridges album (no label).
2013, Samantha appeared on the IBMA Awards Show as a member of the “2013 Bluegrass Youth All-Stars.”
2015, released Wherever I Wander album (Mountain Home).
2017, released The Life We Know album (Mountain Home).
2020, Samantha is a member of the Darin & Brooke Aldridge band.

Soggy Bottom Boys, The

Posted on December 28, 2013August 7, 2023 by WR

THE SOGGY BOTTOM BOYS

A fictional trio that performed in the movie “O Brother Where Art Thou” in 2001.
In the movie, the group was portrayed by actors George Clooney, John Turturro and Tim Blake Nelson.
On the soundtrack recording, the group included Dan Tyminski, Pat Enright and Harley Allen, with backing musicians Ron Block, Barry Bales, Jerry Douglas, Chris Sharp, Mike Compton and Stuart Duncan.
On the soundtrack album, Tim Blake Nelson sang lead on one song: “In the Jailhouse Now.”
2014, Tyminski, Block, Duncan, Bales and Compton appeared together for a “reunion” of the Soggy Bottom Boys at the Ole Smoky® Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Solivan, Frank (and Dirty Kitchen)

Posted on December 28, 2013March 8, 2023 by WR

FRANK SOLIVAN (AND DIRTY KITCHEN)

From Modesto, California. Lives in Alexandria, Virginia.
Began playing fiddle and banjo as a youngster. In high school studied the cello and was second chair in the California All-State Honor Orchestra.
1995, moved to Alaska. Taught fiddle, mandolin and guitar. Played first chair violin in the University of Alaska Symphony Orchestra. Helped the Alaskan group Bearfoot Bluegrass get their start.
He is also a gourmet chef, hunter, fisherman and leathersmith.
1996, toured with the Doug Dillard Band.
2002, released first solo project I am a Rambler (no label).
2003-2008, played mandolin and fiddle with the U.S. Navy Band Country Current.
2009, formed his band Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen with Mike Munford (banjo), Chris Luquette (guitar) and Danny Booth (bass).
2010, released Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen album (no label).
2013, released Cold Spell album (Compass).
2013, band member Munford was awarded IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.
2013, band member Luquette was awarded IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2014, 2016, won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
2014, released On the Edge album (Compass).
2015, did some dates with the Earls of Leicester, playing mandolin and singing tenor.
2015, won 8 WAMMY awards (Washington Area Music Association) including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Musician of the Year and Songwriter of the Year. He won 8 of the 9 awards that he was nominated for.
2018, released If You Can’t Stand the Heat album (Compass).
2023, Luguette (guitar) left Dirty Kitchen to pursue other opportunities.

Songs from the Road Band

Posted on December 28, 2013November 19, 2021 by WR

SONGS FROM THE ROAD BAND

From Asheville, North Carolina.
A project band formed by bass player and songwriter Charles R. Humphrey III (formerly with the Steep Canyon Rangers.)
Musicians have included Nicky Sanders (fiddle), Andy Thorn (banjo), Mark Shimick (mandolin), John Stickley (guitar), Sam Wharton (lead guitar). They are all members of other bands: The Steep Canyon Rangers, Shannan Whitworth and the Refugees, Larry Keel and Natural Bridge, The Emmitt-Nershi Band, Town Mountain, The Grit Pixies, Big Fat Gap, The Super Grit Cowboys and others.
2006, recorded first album Songs from the Road (Lucks Dumpy Toad Records).
2008, released second album As the Crow Flies (Lucks Dumpy Toad Records).
2015, released third album Traveling Show (Lucks Dumpy Toad Records).
2018, began touring together as a band with Charles Humphrey III (recently retired from the Steep Canyon Rangers), Ryan Cavanaugh (banjo), Mark Schimick (mandolin), Sam Wharton (guitar) and James Schlender (fiddle).
2019, released Waiting on a Ride album (Lucks Dumpy Toad).
2019, Cavanaugh left the band. He was replaced by Gabe Epstein (banjo).

Sonoran Dogs, The

Posted on June 28, 2015April 20, 2019 by WR

THE SONORAN DOGS

From Tucson, Arizona.
Formed in 2011 by Peter McLaughlin (guitar), Mark Miracle (mandolin), Tyler James (banjo) and Bryan Davies (bass).
McLaughlin (guitar) is a national flatpick guitar champion (Winfield, 1988) and a former member of Laurie Lewis and Grant Street. He has also performed and recorded with Ross Nickerson and Chris Brashear and he has a solo album to his credit.
Miracle (mandolin) is a former member of Sawmill Road and Shady Creek.
James (banjo) won the Rockygrass banjo championship (2008).
2015, released debut album Sonoran Dogs (Dog Boy Records).

Soul Pickers, The

Posted on December 28, 2013 by WR

THE SOUL PICKERS

From Hazel Green, Alabama (near Huntsville)
Formed in 2003.
Members: Shane Norman (mandolin), Daniel Wiseman (guitar), Tyler Anderson (banjo), Wayne Clemons (bass).
Perform gospel music, primarily at churches and gospel music events.
2007, released first album on Tom T. and Dixie Hall’s Blue Circle record label.

Southern Blend

Posted on December 28, 2013March 24, 2019 by WR

SOUTHERN BLEND

From Clay City, Kentucky.
Formed in 1984 by Ricky Wasson (guitar) and former members of John Cosby and the Bluegrass Drifters including Wayne Fields (banjo), Bill Fields (bass) and Rick Johnson (mandolin). Shayne Bartley (mandolin) was also a member of this group.
1987, released “Spend Some Time with Southern Blend” album on Old Homestead Records.
1988, released “Once Again” album on Old Homestead Records.
1995, disbanded.

Southern Junction

Posted on December 28, 2013 by WR

SOUTHERN JUNCTION

From Concord, North Carolina.
Formed in 1990.
Features Bob Shue (banjo) and his sons Terry (bass) and Todd (mandolin). Also in the band: Mack Watson (guitar), Eddie Carr (fiddle).
Appear in the movie “This Moment in Country” which is shown at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville.

Southern Rail

Posted on December 28, 2013April 17, 2019 by WR

SOUTHERN RAIL

From Watertown, Massachusetts.
Formed in 1979.
Personnel: Jim Muller (guitar), Sharon Horovitch (bass), Rich Stillman (banjo), John Tibert (mandolin).
Muller is originally from Virginia; he is married to Horovitch, a Canadian.
They call their sound “Modern Traditional.”
For several years, Muller wrote a column titled “Plugged In” (dealing with sound reinforcement) for the now-defunct Bluegrass Now magazine.
1987, released “Looking for the Lighthouse” album (Track).
1989, released “Home” album (Track).
1991, released “Drive By Night” album (Turquoise).
1992, released Roadwork album (Turquoise).
1993, released Carolina Lightning album (Turquoise).
1996, released Glory Train album (Pinecastle).
1998, released Wasting My Time album (Pinecastle).
2002, released Coal Tattoo album (Railway).
2008, released Live at the Linden Tree album (Railway).
2009, released On the Road From Appomattox album (Railway).
2019, were inducted into the Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance (RIBA) Hall of Fame.

Southern Raised

Posted on May 9, 2018February 9, 2020 by WR

SOUTHERN RAISED

From Crane, Missouri.
A family band featuring four siblings: Lindsay Reith (bass), Sarah Reith (banjo), Emily Reith (fiddle/mandolin) and Matthew Reith (guitar).
They specialize in bluegrass gospel music and perform regularly in churches and Christian concerts.
2017, released Another World album (Provident).
2019, Sarah was married to David Noland and now resides in Kansas.
2019, became resident performers at Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO.

Harris, Bob

Posted on November 30, 2013 by WR

BOB HARRIS

Originally from Illinois. Lives in Flemington, New Jersey.
Was member of New Jersey bluegrass band “Rank Strangers.”
Fronted his own band “Razin’ Cane.”
1993, Guitar Player magazine gave him the award for “Acoustic Pickstyle” Guitar Player of the Year.
1990-2005 worked with Vassar Clements.
Owns 2 recording studios and produces all kinds of acoustic music.
2010, played some dates with BuddyMerriam.
2012, began hosting an interactive website called “Amazing Acoustic Guitar Videos.”

Sowell, The Family

Posted on April 21, 2018March 11, 2021 by WR

THE FAMILY SOWELL

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
Pronounced “Sow-(as in “cow”)-ell”
A family band featuring the Sowell siblings: Jacob (banjo), Joshua (guitar), Naomi (bass), Abigail (mandolin), John-Mark (fiddle) and Justus (guitar). They range in age from 11 to 21 (2018). Their parents Guynn (pronounced “Gwen”) and Cindy Sowell manage the group, drive the bus and coach.
They are primarily a gospel bluegrass band.
They have taken over 1000 ukeleles on mission trips to give children in Serbia and Russia.
2017, won the “Youth in Bluegrass” band contest at Silver Dollar City.
2017, signed with Poor Mountain Records. Released single “Mighty to Save.”
2018, released single “Dusty Gravel Road” (Poor Mountain), co-written with Jerry Salley.
2018, released single “Speak Love” (Poor Mountain).
2020, released “Some Kind of Different” album (no label).
2021, released “Time Travel” album (no label).

Sparkman, Steve

Posted on December 28, 2013 by WR

STEVE SPARKMAN

From Harlan, Kentucky.
Has the distinction of being only the second banjo player to perform as a member of the Clinch Mountain Boys (Ralph Stanley being the first.)
1994, at the age of 22, he filled in for Ralph Stanley when Ralph broke his hip and was unable to hold the banjo on stage. When Ralph’s hip healed, he decided to keep Steve as a member of the band. Steve does most of the banjo playing now.
2010, left the Clinch Mountain Boys to become a police officer with the Versailles (KY) police department. He was replaced by left-handed banjo player Jarrod Church.
2013, appeared on Don Rigsby’s “The Doctor is In” album, a tribute to Dr. Ralph Stanley.

Sparks, Larry

Posted on December 28, 2013January 7, 2022 by WR

LARRY SPARKS

From southern Ohio. Lives in Greensburg, Indiana.
Began singing and playing bluegrass when he was 5 years old, learning the guitar from his sister Bernice.
1965, first professional job (at age 18): guitarist with the Stanley Brothers, replacing George Shuffler. After Carter died (December 1966) he took over the lead singing duties. He was the first lead singer with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.
1969, formed his band The Lonesome Ramblers, which has undergone numerous and frequent personnel changes over the years.
2004, released 40 album (Rebel), celebrating his 40 years in bluegrass music.
2004, 2005, won IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
2005, won two IBMA Awards for Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year, both for his album 40.
2014, released Lonesome & Then Some album (Rebel), celebrating his 50 years in bluegrass music
2014, was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, introduced by Alison Krauss.
2019, released “New Moon Over My Shoulder” album (Rebel).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

The Best of Larry Sparks: Bound to Ride (Rebel, 2008) A nice collection of his most popular songs.
John Deere Tractor (Rebel, 1980)
Classic Bluegrass (Rebel, 1989)
Sings Hank Williams (Rebel, 1991)
I Just Want to Thank You Lord (Rural Rhythm, 2009)
Almost Home (Rounder, 2011)
Silver Reflections (Rebel, 1994)

Sparks, Scottie

Posted on December 28, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

SCOTTIE SPARKS

From eastern Kentucky.
First band: The Wilson Brothers, playing guitar.
Also played with Redwing and Unlimited Tradition.
Performed on the award-winning “Stanley Tradition” albums on Doobie Shea Records.
1993, had a group called Scottie Sparks and the Kentucky Bluegrass Boys.
1999, released first self-titled solo album Scottie Sparks (Doobie Shea).
2000, joined Dave Evans and Riverbend.
2002, joined The Lost and Found
2003, released “The Early Years” album (no label.)

Spears, Ron

Posted on December 28, 2013March 25, 2023 by WR

RON SPEARS

From West Valley City, Utah.
1970’s, played in a band called “Obadiah’s Organic Bluegrass Band.”
1976-1993, played rock and country music.
1990, had a band called Bluegrass Conspiracy.
1995, formed Within Tradition, which broke up after one year; re-formed in 1999.
1999, released My Time Has Come album (Copper Creek).
1999, worked briefly with Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
Has written songs recorded by Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Third Tyme Out, Lou Reid, the Bluegrass Cardinals, others.
2004, released Carolina Rain album (Copper Creek).
2004, Within Tradition was disbanded and Spears joined The Special Consensus, replacing Josh Williams on mandolin.
2007, left Special Consensus to briefly join Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver. Later in the year, joined David Parmley and Continental Divide.
He is also a champion “yo-yo man” (won Utah State Grand Championship) and a ventriloquist.
2009, joined the James King band.
2013, joined the Reno and Harrell band playing bass.
2015, joined David Parmley and Cardinal Tradition.
2019, formed Fast Track with several members of Cardinal Tradition when Parmley disbanded the group.
2023, died at the age of 69.

Special Consensus

Posted on December 28, 2013October 25, 2024 by WR

SPECIAL CONSENSUS

From Chicago, Illinois.
The name Special Consensus comes from the writings of Carlos Casteneda, an anthropologist who wrote about the mystical and spiritual beliefs of a Mexican Indian tribe. The “special consensus” was a state of mind for the Yaqui Indians where “all the good things in life connect with the good things of the spirit.”
Led by banjo-virtuoso Greg Cahill, who formed the group in 1975 and has been the one constant member.
Cahill’s early influences: polka music (he played an accordian at age 8). In the 1960’s, he heard Flatt and Scruggs, fell in love with the banjo. Has been a full time banjo player since 1975.
Cahill has a master’s degree in social work.
1992, Cahill also performed and recorded several albums with mandolinist Don Stiernberg.
1993, released Green Rolling Hills album (Turquoise).
1996, released Strong Enough to Bend album (Pinecastle).
1998, released Our Little Town album (Pinecastle).
1998, Cahill played banjo on the John Lithgow Discover Card commercials. Has also played on several Coke commercials.
2000, released 25th Anniversary album (Pinecastle) to celebrate their silver anniversary as a band.
2002, survived a serious bus accident in April near Texarkana, Texas. Bus was totaled.
2002, released Route 10 album (Pinecastle).
2004, released Everything’s Alright album (Pinecastle)
2006, Cahill was elected president and chairman of the board of IBMA. Cahill had previously served as vice-chairman of the board and chaired IBMA’s Bluegrass in the Schools committee.
2007, released Trail of Aching Hearts album (Pinecastle).
2008, Cahill appeared on the Jerry Springer Show (NBC) in a hillbilly-themed segment.
2009, released Signs album (Pinecastle).
2010, released 35 album (Pinecastle), celebrating the band’s 35th anniversary.
2012, released Scratch Gravel Road album (Compass).
2013, released album Country Boy: A Bluegrass Tribute To John Denver (Compass).
2014, won IBMA Awards for Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year (“Thank God I’m a Country Boy”) and Recorded Event of the Year (“Wild Montana Skies” with Claire Lynch and Rob Ickes.)
2016, released Long I Ride album (Compass).
2016, won IBMA Award for Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year (“Fireball” with Rob Ickes, Trey Hensley and Alison Brown).
2018, released Rivers and Roads album (Compass).
2018, won IBMA Awards for Album of the Year (for Rivers and Roads) and Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year (“Squirrel Hunters” from the same album).
2020, released Chicago Barn Dance album (Compass); won the IBMA Award for Song of the Year for the title song.
2021, Rick Faris left the group after 11 years to pursue a solo career. Greg Blake took his place.
2023 lineup: Cahill (banjo), Blake (guitar), Dan Eubanks (bass), Michael Prewitt (fiddle/mandolin).
2023, released Great Blue North album (Compass).
2024, Brian McCarty replaced Prewitt (fiddle/mandolin) in the band.

Spectrum

Posted on December 27, 2013July 4, 2018 by WR

SPECTRUM

From Nashville.
A band that included Glenn Lawson (guitar and lead vocals), Bela Fleck (banjo), Jimmy Gaudreau (mandolin), and Mark Schatz (bass.) Jimmy Mattingly played fiddle with this band for a short time.
Fleck and Schatz were previously with Tasty Licks; Gaudreau and Lawson were previously with J.D. Crowe and the New South. In 1979, they left their respective bands to form Spectrum.
1981, released “Opening Roll” album (Rounder).
1982, released “It’s Too Hot for Words” album (Rounder).
1983, released “Live in Japan” album (Rounder).
Broke up in 1982, shortly after Fleck joined the New Grass Revival.

Speer, Rebekah

Posted on May 21, 2021 by WR

REBEKAH SPEER

(See REBEKAH LONG)

Spillwater Drive

Posted on December 22, 2020 by WR

SPILLWATER DRIVE

From Arkansas/Missouri (the Ozarks).
Formed in 2017 by Adam Ash (banjo), Samuel Cobb (mandolin), Gary Cook (bass) and Jake Stogdill (guitar).
Stogdill is an award-winning flatpick guitarist, yo-yo champion, luthier and manager of Banjo Ben Clark’s General Store.
2020, released self-titled album (no label).

Spinney Brothers, The

Posted on December 27, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

SPINNEY BROTHERS

From Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Formed in 1992 as The Spinney Brothers and Close Company.
Features brothers Allan (guitar) and Rick (banjo), born the same day in August, one year apart (1965 and 1966).
1995, won Band of the Year at the Eastern Canadian Bluegrass Music Awards.
1993, released “The Spinney Brothers and Close Company” (no label).
1996, released “The Old Fundy Shore” album (no label).
2000, shortened the name of their band to the Spinney Brothers.
2000, released “Tailor Made” album (no label).
2005, released “If I Were Your Brother” album (no label) which won Recording of the Year at the Eastern Canadian Bluegrass Music Awards.
2006, released “Here at the Cross” album (no label).
2008, released “Going Home” album (no label).
2009, released When Those Golden Leaves Began to Fall album (no label).
2010, released “Side by Side” album (no label).
2010, became a full-time touring band.
2010, were inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame.
2012, released Memories album (Mountain Fever),
2013, released No Borders album (Mountain Fever).
2014, released Tried & True album (Mountain Fever).
2016, released Living the Dream album (Mountain Fever).
2017, decided to stop touring.
2019, decided to resume touring as a band.

Spring Creek

Posted on December 27, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

SPRING CREEK

From Lyons, Colorado
2004, formed at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas where they studied music under Alan Munde and Joe Carr.
Members: Taylor Sims (guitar), Jessica Smith (bass), Chris Elliott (banjo), Alex Johnstone (mandolin).
2006, released first album “Cosmic Bluegrass.”
2007, won the band contests at Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Rocky Mountain Bluegrass Festival held in Lyons.
2008, released second album “Lonesome Way to Go.”
2009, released “Way Up on a Mountain” on Rebel Records.
2011, released “Hold On Me” on their own label.

Springfield Exit

Posted on December 27, 2013January 24, 2022 by WR

SPRINGFIELD EXIT

From Virginia.
Formed 2003 by Linda and David Lay (Appalachian Trail) and David McLaughlin (formerly with the Johnson Mountain Boys) to record a project for the Cracker Barrel record label, Americana. Band also included Tom Adams (banjo) and Marshall Wilborn (bass).
2011, performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC for the National Council of the Traditional Arts. Sammy Shelor played banjo with them.
2013, opened for Merle Haggard.
2015, released That was Then album (Patuxent Records).

Sprouse, Blaine

Posted on December 27, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

BLAINE SPROUSE

From Martinsburg, West Virginia. Lived in Nashville for many years, then moved to California. Currently lives in Point Reyes, California.
Has been a member of numerous notable bluegrass bands (as fiddle player) including the Osborne Brothers, Jim and Jesse, Jimmy Martin, Charlie Louvin, The Bluegrass Band, The Johnson Mountain Boys, The Dreadful Snakes, The Cluster Pluckers.
Age 13, heard Kenny Baker play the fiddle and decided he wanted to play just like him. Twenty years later, recorded a duet album with Baker.
1979, released first solo project “Blaine Sprouse” (Rounder).
1982, released “Summertime” album (Rounder).
1984, played fiddle on the hit Alabama single “If You Want to Live in Texas, You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band.”
1985, released Brilliancy album (Rounder).
1987, performed with Kenny Baker, Alison Krauss and other notable fiddlers in the “Masters of the Folk Violin” tour.
1989, released an album of duets with Kenny Baker Indian Springs (Rounder).
1990, quit full-time music to pursue a law degree. Went into private practice and later joined the staff of the Tennessee State Attorney General.
1992, released “Dogwood Winter” album (Cumberland).
2010, ended his law practice in Tennessee, moved to California and revived his music career. He has been performing as a member of Peter Rowan’s band, among others.

Spruce Pine

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

SPRUCE PINE

From The Netherlands (Holland).
Formed in 1977 by Dennis Schut, who played guitar with Charlie Moore on several European tours in the 1970’s. He also toured with Jim Eanes.
Spruce Pine is a town in North Carolina.
Original band name: The Loser Mountain Boys.
1989, released Won’t You Sometimes Think of Me album (no label).
2007, released album “30 Years.”
2007, Schut toured the U.S. with the Czech Republic band Country Cocktail.

Keith, Bill

Posted on December 2, 2013February 12, 2020 by WR

BILL KEITH

From Brockton, Massachusetts, near Boston. Lived in Woodstock, New York.
Popularized a melodic style of playing the banjo which came to be known as “chromatic” or “Keith-style” banjo. His performance of “Sailor’s Hornpipe” recorded by Bill Monroe (1965) while he was with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys is a good example of this style.
Inventor of the “Scruggs-Keith tuner”, a device which improved on the original “Scruggs Peg” (designed by Earl Scruggs) allowing banjo players to change the pitch of a string in the middle of a song without having to re-tune their instrument. Keith’s device made it possible to add this feature to a banjo without drilling additional holes in the banjo’s peghead.
Learned to play banjo from a Pete Seeger instruction book on a $15 banjo.
While at Amherst College, he met Jim Rooney, who was running the college radio station and Manny Greenhill, who later became Doc Watson’s personal manager. Together they organized the Connecticut Valley Folklore Society to promote folk music in New England. That organization played a key role in the folk music revival of the 1960’s.
Worked with Red Allen and the Kentuckians, Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys (1963-65), Jim Kweskin’s Jug Band, Muleskinner, the Woodstock Mountain Revue, and other groups.
He transcribed many of Earl Scruggs’ banjo tunes into tablature (a form of musical notation which describes finger positions) which later became a best-selling banjo instruction book titled Earl Scruggs and the Five String Banjo.
While with the Blue Grass Boys, Bill Monroe would introduce him as “Brad” Keith—because, as Monroe put it, “there’s only one Bill in my band.” (Keith’s middle name is “Bradford.”)
Founded the Beacon Banjo Company—which continues to manufacture and distribute the Scruggs-Keith banjo tuner and other parts for banjos.
1976, released Something Auld, Something Newgrass, Something Borrowed, Something Bluegrass album (Rounder).
1984, released Banjoistics album (Rounder).
1993, organized a new band with Jim Rooney and Eric Weissburg (of Dueling Banjos fame) in a band called The New Blue Velvet Band.
1992, released Beating Around The Bush album (Green Linnet).
1993, worked with Richard Greene’s band “The Grass is Greener.”
2002, gave speech inducting the Lilly Brothers and Don Stover (one of his banjo heroes) into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
2014, was presented with the IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
2015, was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. Although he was very ill with a form of cancer, he was present in Raleigh, North Carolina for the induction ceremony.
2015, died at the age of 75, less than a month after being inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Sprung, Roger

Posted on July 29, 2023 by WR

ROGER SPRUNG

From Newtown, Connecticut. He was originally from New York City. His father was a Manhattan lawyer.
Began playing banjo in the early days folk music (1950’s-1960’s) around New York City. He studied the music of the Carolinas and played in groups like the Folksay Trio, the Shanty Boys and others.
Recorded several banjo albums for Folkways Records, with Doc Watson on guitar, including “Progressive Bluegrass Vol. 1.”
1970’s, formed a group called Roger Sprung, Hal Wylie and the Progressive Bluegrassers.
He is sometimes called the Godfather of Progressive Bluegrass.
He was also an artist and calligrapher.
1970, won “World Championship Banjo Player” at the Union Grove Old Time Fiddlers Festival.
2020, was inducted into the Banjo Museum Hall of Fame.
2023, died at the age of 92.

Spurgin, Steve

Posted on December 27, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

STEVE SPURGIN

From McKinney, Texas (near Dallas). Now living in Carson City, Nevada.
Best known as the bass player and lead vocalist with the band California (three-time winner of IBMA’s Instrumental Group of the Year Award.)
A singer-songwriter with many songs to his credit including “Walk in the Irish Rain” and “Speak Softly, Your Talkin’ to My Heart”, a #1 song for Gene Watson.
1972, played drums with a California group called Wild Oats.
1980, played drums with Byron Berline’s band Sundance.
1981, played drums with the Limeliters. Also worked withi Freddy Fender, Mason Williams and Steve Gillette.
1982, became staff songwriter for Reba McIntyre.
1988, formed California with Byron Berline, John Hickman, Dan Crary and John Moore. Played bass and sang lead vocals.
1996, released first solo project Distant Faces (Tricopolis Records).
1998-2000, played bass with Bluegrass Etc. He continues to play occasional dates with this band.
2002, released Tumbleweed Town album (Tricopolis Records).
2004, formed a band called Sawmill Road (broke up in 2010).
2011, released Past Perfect album (Blue Night).
2012, released Folk Remedies album (Blue Night).
2014, authored a memoir (book) titled Skint Knee, Texas: Narratives on the Great Transition.

Staats, Johnny

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

JOHNNY STAATS (AND THE DELIVERY BOYS)

From Jackson County, West Virginia. Lives on a 20 acre farm.
Started playing mandolin at age seven. Also plays guitar and fiddle.
At age nine, formed his first band called “Bluegrass Heritage.”
After graduation from high school, pursued a music career in Nashville, but things didn’t work out. Returned home and took a job with United Parcel Service (UPS).
1992, formed a group called The Cross Roads Band, performing mostly gospel music. After touring Taiwan, the group broke up.
Does studio work in West Virginia and tours with his new band “The Johnny Staats Project.”
1992, 1993, won the Ohio State Guitar Championship.
1995, won the guitar championship at MerleFest.
1995, Cross Currents Band won band contest at Winterhawk.
1996, 1997, 1999 won the mandolin and guitar championships at Vandalia Gathering in Charleston, West Virginia.
Hobby: coon hunting.
2000, released a solo album Wires And Wood (Giant) backed by John Cowan, Scott Vestal, Sam Bush, Kathy Mattea, Jim Hurst, Tim O’Brien and Jerry Douglas.
Has appeared on the Today Show (NBC) and the CBS News with Dan Rather.
2012, formed his own band The Delivery Boys. He continues to work as a driver for UPS.
2013, released Time Moves on album (no label).

Stafford, Tim

Posted on December 27, 2013September 28, 2023 by WR

TIM STAFFORD

From Kingsport, Tennessee.
1990-1993, played guitar with Alison Krauss and Union Station. Appeared on the Grammy winning album “Every Time You Say Goodbye.” Says he decided to quit when he returned from a long tour and his son didn’t recognize him.
Early in his career, performed with Dusty Miller, The Boys in the Band, the Hazel Dickens Band, others.
He is an original member of the IBMA board of directors.
Taught history at East Tennessee State University and came close to getting his Ph.D.
1994, formed Blue Highway.
2004, released first solo project
2010, released a duet album with Steve Gulley Dogwood Winter (Rural Rhythm).
2014, released solo project Endless Line (Flatpicking Guitar Magazine).
Just to Hear the Whistle Blow on his own label (Hedge Drive Records).
2021, won the IBMA Award for Best Liner Notes (for California Autumn by Tony Rice).
2023, joined the faculty of East Tennessee State University as Artist in Residence.
2023, won the IBMA Award for Songwriter of the Year for the third time (also won in 2014 and 2017).

Stamper, Art

Posted on December 27, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

ART STAMPER

From Hindman, Kentucky.
One of bluegrass music’s pioneering fiddle players.
As a teen, he began professional career working with Jim and Jesse and The Sauceman Brothers.
Early 1950’s, worked with the Stanley Brothers and recorded some of their classic songs.
1956, worked with Red Allen and the Osborne Brothers.
Late fifties, quit music to become a hairdresser in Louisville, KY. Re-emerged in early 80’s to work with the Goins Brothers.
1982, recorded an album titled Lost Fiddler (County) after the nickname he picked up after returning to music.
2000, released Goodbye Girls I’m Going to Boston album (County).
2004, recieved the Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA.
2004, released Wake Up Darlin Corey album (County).
Died January, 2005 of throat cancer.

Stanley Brothers, The

Posted on December 27, 2013June 7, 2023 by WR

THE STANLEY BROTHERS

From McClure, Virginia.
Carter and Ralph Stanley were among the most influential of the first-generation bluegrass bands.
First began recording “hillbilly music” in the 1940’s.
Late 40’s, signed with Columbia and developed a bluegrass sound which was patterned after Bill Monroe’s. (This resulted in Bill Monroe’s leaving Columbia for Decca.)
1953-1958, recorded for Mercury Records. (In the early years of bluegrass, there was kind of a record company “musical chairs” being played among Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs, and the Stanley Brothers—involving Mercury, Columbia and Decca.)
1958, were assigned to Mercury’s subsidiary label, Starday. Later recorded for Wango and King Records.
One of the first bluegrass bands to feature the guitar as a lead instrument, setting themselves apart from other bluegrass acts. Bill Napier, George Shuffler, Curley Lambert and Larry Sparks all played lead guitar for the Stanley Brothers.
They rose to prominence on the popular radio show “Farm and Fun Time” broadcast over WCYB in Bristol, Tennessee.
Their recording of “The Orange Blossom Special” landed them the “Instrumental Group of the Year” award at the 1955 Nashville Disc Jockey’s Convention (later to become the Country Music Association Awards Show.)
Their recording of “How Far to Little Rock” was their only “top 20” song. In March of 1960, it entered the Billboard country music charts and peaked at #17. It stayed on the chart for 12 weeks.
Carter Stanley wrote some of his songs under the pseudonym “Ruby Rakes.”
Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley were first attracted to bluegrass music by the music of the Stanley Brothers and performed with them before Carter’s death.
Carter is best remembered by a wealth of great songs which are still performed and recorded by almost every bluegrass band, and by such artists as Ricky Skaggs and Emmylou Harris.
1992, were inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Museum’s Hall of Honor.
1996, Carter died of liver cancer at age 41.
After Carter’s death, Ralph continued to perform as “Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.”
2000, the Stanley Brothers’ recording of “Angel Band” was included on the movie soundtrack O Brother, Where Art Thou? (Mercury/Lost Highway).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Complete Columbia Recordings (CBS).
The Stanley Brothers and The Clinch Mountain Boys: The Complete Mercury Recordings (Mercury Nashville)
The Early Years 1958-1961 (Gusto) An excellent box set featuring their early recordings.
The King Years 1961-1965 (Gusto) Another box set featuring Stanley classics.
The Stanley Brothers & The Clinch Mountain Boys 1949-1952 (Bear Family) A box set of 2 CD’s plus booklet with information on all the songs.
The Stanley Brothers & The Clinch Mountain Boys 1953-1959 (Bear Family) A box set of 2 CD’s plus booklet with information on all the songs.

Stanley, Kristi

Posted on June 29, 2018June 29, 2018 by WR

KRISTI STANLEY

From Pikeville, Kentucky.
She is the wife of Ralph Stanley II.
She began singing as a teenager and performed with a country band called Sandy River, later opening for Kenny Chesney, Billy Ray Cyrus and other country acts.
2001, appeared on Dr. Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Sweethearts album (Rebel).
After marrying Dr. Ralph’s son (Ralph Stanley II), she put her singing career on hold to raise their two children, Taylor and Ralph Stanley III.
2017, returned to her singing with the release of her first album “Heart Wide Open” (Union House).
Her band is called Running Blind.

Stanley, Nathan

Posted on October 12, 2014September 23, 2020 by WR

NATHAN STANLEY

From Coeburn, Virginia.
He is the grandson of Ralph Stanley. He started touring with his grandfather at age 10.
Released 7 solo albums before the age of 21.
2008, released Where Will You Go album (no label), duets with Ralph Stanley.
2010, released My Kind of Country album (no label).
2012, formed Nathan Stanley Ministries, focusing primarily on gospel music (Southern Gospel).
2013, released The Legacy Continues album (no label).
2014, won a Dove award (Bluegrass Album of the Year) for his album Every Mile (Willow Creek).

Stanley, Ralph

Posted on December 27, 2013February 2, 2024 by WR

RALPH STANLEY (AND THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS)

Born in 1927 in Big Spraddle Creek, Virginia. His home was in McClure, Virginia.
1946, began performing with his brother Carter as the The Stanley Brothers after his discharge from the Army until Carter’s death in 1966.
1966-2016, Ralph kept The Stanley Brothers’ band The Clinch Mountain Boys together by employing a long succession of lead singers cut in the Carter Stanley mold—Larry Sparks, Roy Lee Centers, Keith Whitley, Charlie Sizemore, Sammy Adkins, and his sons Ralph Stanley II and Nathan.
Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley joined The Clinch Mountain Boys while they were teenagers.
He claims that had he not become a professional musician, he would have become a veterinarian.
1976, he received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee. Since then, he has been known as “Dr. Ralph Stanley.”
1999, won IBMA Awards for Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year for his album Clinch Mountain Country (Rebel).
1999, recorded first album with Nashville hit-writer Jim Lauderdale. He recorded several more with him in subsequent years.
2000, became a member of the Grand Ole Opry at age 72.
2000, received the Living Legend award from the Library of Congress.
2000, sang on the soundtrack for the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou” and received numerous CMA and Grammy awards for his work on that project.
2001, won Grammy award for Best Country Vocal Performance for “O Death” from the soundtrack to the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? (Other nominees included Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Tim McGraw, Johnny Cash and Ryan Adams)
2001-2, performed on the “Down from the Mountain” tour.
2002, won IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year for Clinch Mountain Sweethearts (Rebel).
2003, won Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album for his collaboration with Jim Lauderdale, Lost in the Lonesome Pines (Dualtone). Ralph’s solo album Ralph Stanley (Columbia), produced by T. Bone Burnett, was also nominated but did not win.
2006, was awarded the National Medal for the Arts by President George W. Bush at the White House.
2007, performed for the Queen of England when she visited Richmond, Virginia.
2008, was presented with the “Governor’s Award for the Arts” by the State of Virginia.
2010, his autobiography was published. Stanley and co-writer Eddie Dean received an IBMA Award for Print Media Personality of the Year.
2013, announced his retirement (but continued to make appearances for three more years).
2014, received his second honorary doctorate, a Doctor of Music degree from Yale University in New Haven, CT.
2014, was elected a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (along with Al Pacino, John Irving, Annie Proulx and other notable public figures).
2015, released Man of Constant Sorrow album (Cracker Barrel) with guests Dierks Bentley, Josh Turner, Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, Old Crow Medicine Show and others.
2016, officially turned the band name over to his son Ralph Stanley II.
June 23, 2016, died at the age of 89.
2024, he was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

The Very Best of Ralph Stanley (Audium)
My Life & Legacy: Very Best of Ralph Stanley (Rebel)
Shine on (Rebel, 2005)
A Mother’s Prayer (Rebel, 2011)
Clinch Mountain Gospel (Rebel, 1976)
Classic Bluegrass (Rebel, 1986)

Stanley, Ralph II

Posted on December 27, 2013June 2, 2016 by WR

RALPH STANLEY II

From McClure, Virginia.
Son of Ralph Stanley, who in 1995 began performing full-time in his father’s band, playing guitar and singing lead at the age of 16.
1996, recorded an album of duets “in the Stanley Tradition” with multi-instrumentalist John Rigsby, also a member of the Clinch Mountain Boys. Rigsby is from Louisa, Kentucky.
Nickname: “Two.”
1999, released first solo album Listen to My Hammer Ring (Rebel).
2000, released Pretty Girls City Lights album (Rebel)
2002, released Stanley Blues album (Rebel).
2003, released Carrying on album (Rebel), nominated for a Grammy Award.
2008, released This One Is Two album (Lonesome Day).
2011, released Born to Be a Drifter album (Stanley Generation).
2014, released Side By Side album (Rebel) with his father Dr. Ralph Stanley.
2016, inherited his father’s band name and began making appearances as Ralph Stanley II and the Clinch Mountain Boys.

Starlett & Big John

Posted on September 13, 2022February 11, 2023 by WR

STARLETT & BIG JOHN

From Southampton County, Virginia (Big John) and Ruffin, North Carolina (Starlett).
Starlett Boswell Austin grew up in Cascade, Virginia and began singing on stage at age 4. She plays guitar and upright bass and since 2013 has been the lead singer and bass player with the North Carolina band Lawson Creek Grass.
Big John Talley has been performing since the early 1980’s. At age 16 he won Male Vocalist of the Year from the Virginia Folk Music Association. At age 17, he began performing with the New Dominion Bluegrass Boys and with that group appeared on the Grand Ole Opry as a guest of Bill Monroe.
2021, they signed with Turnberry Records.
2021, released Til the End of the Road album (Turnberry).
2022, signed with Rebel Records.
2023, released Living in the South album (Rebel).

Starling, John

Posted on December 27, 2013June 22, 2024 by WR

JOHN STARLING

From Alabama. Lived in Fredericksburg, VA.
One of the founding members of the Seldom Scene.
Left the Seldom Scene in 1988 to devote himself full-time to his medical practice. He is a surgeon, specializing in ear, nose and throat ailments (or as John Duffy liked putting it, “ear, nose and wallet.”)
Was musical director for the award-winning “Trio” album featuring Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton.
1980, released “Long Time Gone” album (Sugar Hill) with guests Emmylou Harris, Ricky Skaggs and Lowell George (of Little Feat).
1982, released “Waiting on a Southern Train” album (Sugar Hill).
1991, collaborated on a duet album with Carl Jackson and The Nash Ramblers (Sam Bush, Al Perkins and Emmylou Harris) which won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Recording (1992). John and Carl referred to their style of music as “Power Grass.”
1992, re-joined the Seldom Scene to become its guitarist and lead singer for a second time.
1994, left the Seldom Scene again; was replaced by Moondi Klein.
2005, he, Ben Eldridge and Tom Gray did several shows as The Seldom Seniors.
2005, formed new band Carolina Star with Mike Auldridge, Rickie Simpkins, Tom Gray and Jimmy Gaudreau. They were a part-time band.
2006, retired from his medical practice.
2007, released Slidin’ Home album (Rebel). The mayor of Washington DC proclaimed February 23, 2007 as John Starling and Carolina Star Day in the city (to celebrate the release of the new album).
2013, reunited with other members of the Seldom Scene and special guests including Emmylou Harris for the 40th anniversary of the band’s first performance, at the Red Fox Inn in Washington D.C.
2019, died at the age of 79.

Statement

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

STATEMENT

From Christiansburg, Virginia.
A gospel bluegrass band featuring the lead vocals of Ashlee Blankenship.
Members: Josh Blankenship (mandolin), Ashlee Blankenship (vocals), Trent Cox (Guitar), Jimmy Creed (bass), Josh Underwood (banjo).
2010, released Around The Corner album (Mountain Fever).

Statman, Andy

Posted on December 27, 2013October 4, 2024 by WR

ANDY STATMAN

From Brooklyn, New York.
1965, at age 15, took mandolin lessons from David Grisman.
Early 70’s, worked with Tony Trischka in two bands: Country Cooking and Breakfast Special. He also worked with David Bromberg, Vassar Clements, Bela Fleck and Jerry Garcia.
Late 70’s, decided to embrace his Jewish heritage and learned to play saxophone and clarinet. He began playing jazz and Klezmer music.
1980’s, formed the Andy Statman trio with Jim Whitney (bass) and Larry Eagle (percussion). He continues to play and record a unique blend of jazz, Klezmer and bluegrass music.
1995, released Klezmer Suite album (Shanacie)
1995, released Songs of Our Fathers album (Acoustic Disk), a duet album with David Grisman.
2008, appeared on Bela Fleck’s Christmas album Jingle All The Way (Rounder).
2011, released Old Brooklyn album (Shefa).
2012, was awarded a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.
2013, released Superstring Theory album (Shefa) with guests Tim O’Brien and Michael Cleveland.
2024, released Bluegrass Tracks album (Shefa) with guests Ricky Skaggs, Tim O’Brien and others.

Stecher, Jody

Posted on December 27, 2013July 16, 2024 by WR

JODY STECHER (AND KATE BRISLIN)

A husband-wife duo from the San Francisco area.
Stecher plays mandolin, guitar, fiddle, banjo and other instruments. He is originally from Brooklyn, New York, but moved to San Francisco in 1960 to study Indian music.
Jody and Kate met at the 1974 World’s Fair in Spokane, Washington. Kate was performing with a band called the Arkansas Shieks and Jody was with a group called “Houseboat Music.”
1985, began singing and performing together which also led to their marriage.
Kate performed in late 70’s with a female band in San Francisco called The Any Old Time String Band. Early 80’s, with a group called Blue Flame. She has also worked with Laurie Lewis.
1989, released A Song That Will Linger album (Rounder).
1991, released Blue Lightning album (Rounder).
1993, released Our Town album (Rounder).
1998, released Heart Songs: The Old Time Country Songs of Utah Phillips (Rounder).
1999, released Oh Wind & Rain album (Appleseed).
2000, released Going Up on the Mountain album (Acoustic Disk)
2000, Stecher joined Chris Brashear and the Perfect Strangers. He and Kate continue to perform together.
2000, released Songs of the Carter Family album (Appleseed).
2007, Stecher joined Peter Rowan’s Bluegrass Band.
2012, released Wonders & Signs album (Vegitiboy).
2024, released Instant Lonesome and the Twinkle Brigade album (Don Giovanni Records) backed by Mile Twelve.

Steeldrivers, The

Posted on June 15, 2014September 30, 2023 by WR

THE STEELDRIVERS

From Nashville.
Formed in 2005 by veteran musicians Mike Henderson (mandolin), Richard Bailey (banjo), Tammy Rogers (fiddle), Chris Stapleton (guitar) and Mike Fleming (bass).
Richard Bailey is a former member of such groups as the Kentucky Gentlemen and the Cluster Pluckers. He has worked with Bill Monroe, Roland White, Vassar Clements, Loretta Lynn, Chet Akins, Larry Cordle, Laurie Lewis, Dale Ann Bradley, and many others.
Mike Henderson recorded several solo albums on the RCA and Dead Reckoning labels. He has recorded with such artists as Waylon Jennings, Emmylou Harris, Hank Williams, Jr., Faith Hill and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. He has written songs for the Dixie Chicks, Kenny Rogers, Daryl Worley, Patty Loveless, Trisha Yearwood, Travis Tritt, The Fabulous Thunderbirds and Randy Travis, to name a few.
Tammy Rogers is a former member of the band Dusty Miller with Barry Bales, Tim Stafford, Adam Steffey, and Brian Fesler. She has recorded and toured with Neil Diamond, Wynonna, Rodney Crowell, Radney Foster, Bill Anderson, Iris Dement, Randy Scruggs, Patty Loveless, Jim Lauderdale, Reba McIntyre and many more. She also released a solo project Tammy Rogers (Dead Reckoning) in 1996.
Chris Stapleton is a Staffordsville, Kentucky native who began performing in 1999 in a Travis Tritt tribute band. As a songwriter, he has written or co-written songs for such artists as Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Brooks and Dunn, Julie Roberts, Daryl Worley, Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley, Trace Adkins, Lee Ann Womack, Montgomery Gentry, and the Lonesome River Band. He was lead singer and frontman for the Steeldrivers from 2005 to 2010. He has since become a Grammy-winning country music artist.
2008, released The SteelDrivers (Rounder).
2009, won the IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2010, released Reckless album (Rounder).
2010, performed on the soundtrack to the movie “Get Low” starring Robert Duvall, Bill Murray and Sissy Spacek.
2010, Stapleton left the band and was replaced by guitarist/vocalist Gary Nichols from Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
2011, Henderson left the band and was replaced by Brent Truitt.
2013, released Hammer Down album (Rounder).
2015, released Muscle Shoals Recordings (Rounder). This album won the Grammy for Best Bluegrass album (2016).
2015, former guitarist/lead vocalist Chris Stapleton released solo project and won multiple CMA Awards including Album of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year.
2017, country singer and “The Voice” runner-up Adam Wakefield filled in for lead singer Gary Nichols who was on medical leave from the band.
2018, Kelvin Damrell (guitar) joined the band, replacing Gary Nichols. Current lineup: Rogers (fiddle), Damrell (guitar), Bailey (banjo), Truitt (mandolin) and Fleming (bass).
2020, released Bad for You album (Rounder).
2021, Damrell (guitar and lead vocals) left the band and was replaced by Matt Dame.
2023, original member Mike Henderson died at the age of 70.

Steel String Session

Posted on October 23, 2013November 20, 2020 by LJ

STEEL STRING SESSION

From Ducktown, Tennessee.
Formed in 2003 under the name Ducktown Station.
Their music is described as “Cosmic Rockin’ Boogie Grass.”
Their original music has been featured on NBC Sports, PBS “Roadtrip Nation” , FOX Sports, Versus Television, and several movie soundtracks.
Members include Lisa Jacobi (fiddle, mandolin, flat-pick guitar, bass), Pete Dasher (resonator guitar), JRod (Jarrod) Payne (banjo, guitar) and Denny Mixon (bass, guitar).
2005, released first album “Tennessee Twister” produced by Harry Stinson.
2006 changed their band name to Steel String Session.
2009 released their second album “Ocoee Road” produced by Harry Stinson.
2012 at the suggestion of Sam Bush, changed band name to Playing On The Planet.
2014, released third album “Bangor Bound“produced by Lisa Jacobi and Ben Surratt.

Steep Canyon Rangers, The

Posted on December 27, 2013August 22, 2024 by WR

STEEP CANYON RANGERS

From western North Carolina (Asheville).
Their name came from a Colorado beer called “Steep Canyon Stout.”
Formed in 1998 by Lizzie Hamilton (fiddle), Woody Platt (guitar), Mike Guggino (mandolin), Charles Humphrey III (bass) and Graham Sharp (banjo). They were students attending the University of North Carolina.
Got their start playing at the Mellow Mushroom, a pizza parlor in downtown Chapel Hill, NC.
2001, won the band competition at Rockygrass in Colorado.
2002, Lizzie Hamilton left the band.
2003, released first self-titled album for Rebel Records, Steep Canyon Rangers.
2004, fiddler Nicky Sanders replaced Hamilton.
2005, released One Dime at a Time album (Rebel).
2006, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2007, released Lovin’ Pretty Women album (Rebel).
Since 2009, they have been touring and recording with Steve Martin.
2009, released Deep in the Shade album (Rebel).
2011, appeared on Rare Bird Alert album (Rounder) with Steve Martin.
2012, released Nobody Knows You album (Rounder).
2013, won the Grammy in the Bluegrass category for Nobody Knows You album (Rounder).
2013, appeared on Love Has Come For You album (Rounder) by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell.
2013, hosted the IBMA Awards Show in Raleigh, North Carolina.
2013, released Tell The Ones I Love album (Rounder).
2014, appeared on Steve Martin And The Steep Canyon Rangers Featuring Edie Brickell Live album (CD/DVD Combo) (Rounder).
2015, released Radio album (Rounder).
2017, were inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.
2017, released (with Steve Martin) The Long Awaited Album (Rounder).
2018, bass player Charles Humphrey III left the band and was replaced by Barrett Smith, a long-time friend of the band who also attended UNC. They also added a full-time percussionist, Mike Ashworth.
2018, made their first solo appearance on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
2022, Woody Platt (guitar) retired from the band. He was replaced by North Carolina singer/songwriter Aaron Burdett.

Steffey, Adam

Posted on December 27, 2013January 21, 2019 by WR

ADAM STEFFEY

From Johnson City, Tennessee.
Inspired to play mandolin by the Lost and Found’s Dempsey Young.
First band (on graduation from high school) The Boys in the Band (Kingsport, Tennessee).
1987, joined the Lonesome River Band.
1989-1991, formed Dusty Miller (with Tim Stafford and Barry Bales).
1992-2000, joined Alison Krauss and Union Station (as did Stafford and Bales).
2000, co-founded Mountain Heart, but left shortly thereafter to tour and record with the Isaacs.
2001, re-joined Mountain Heart.
2001, released his first solo album Grateful (Mountain Home).
As a studio musician and sideman, he has recorded and performed with Alan Jackson, Dolly Parton, Randy Travis, the Dixie Chicks, many others.
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 won the IBMA Award for Mandolin Player of the Year.
2007, left Mountain Heart, joined the Dan Tyminski Band.
2009, released One More for the Road album (Sugar Hill).
2009, formed (with Ronnie Stewart) The Boxcars.
2010, won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year (for “Durang’s Hornpipe”)
2013, released album New Primitive (Mountain Home) with his wife Tina playing clawhammer banjo.
2015, had surgery (“Subcutaneous Ulnar Nerve Transposition”) on his elbow to relieve pain in his left hand.
2018, formed the Highland Travelers with other members of the Boxcars (disbanded in 2017) and Ramblers Choice (disbanded in 2017)
2018, decided to take a leave from the music business. The Highland Travelers disbanded.
2019, joined Volume Five.

Stephens, Jeremy

Posted on December 27, 2013April 3, 2019 by WR

JEREMY STEPHENS

From Danville, Virginia.
Began playing banjo at age four–a wooden banjo made by his father.
At age nine, formed a band called Shallow Creek and made an appearance on ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
2000, won first place at the Merlefest Banjo Contest.
2001, released solo album Scarlet Banjo (Rebel) at age 16.
2010, released a duet album Old Time Duets (Patuxent) with Tom Mindte.
2010-2014, worked as guitarist and singer for The Chuck Wagon Gang, as a multi-instrumentalist on the television show Ray Stevens’ Nashville, and played banjo with Jesse McReynolds & the Virginia Boys.
2014, formed a new band called High Fidelity, playing guitar.

Stephenson, Larry

Posted on December 27, 2013January 16, 2023 by WR

LARRY STEPHENSON

From Fredericksburg, Virginia. Moved to Nashville in 1992.
Began playing mandolin at age 5.
First band: Larry Stephenson and New Grass (in high school)
1977, worked with Cliff Waldron and the New Shades of Grass.
1978, worked with Leon Morris.
1979-1983, worked with Bill Harrell’s band, The Virginians.
1983-1988, was a member of the Bluegrass Cardinals.
1988, formed his own band and also recorded with Butch Robins’ “The Bluegrass Band.”
1988, released Every Time I Sing a Love Song album (Webco).
1990, released “Timber” album (Webco).
1991, released Close My Eyes to Heaven album (Webco).
1993, released “Wash My Blues Away” album (Webco).
1994, released “Born to Sing” album (Webco).
1994, released Can’t Stop Myself album (Webco).
1995, made first solo appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.
1996, inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame.
1995, released Far Away in Tennessee album (Webco).
1998, released On Fire album (Pinecastle).
2000, released Two Hearts on a Borderline (Pinecastle).
2001, released Heavenward Bound album (Pinecastle).
2003, worked with the original Seldom Scene (called the Seldom Seniors), taking John Duffy’s place.
2004, released Clinch Mountain Mystery album (Pinecastle).
2006, released Life Stories album (Pinecastle).
2008, released Thankful album (Pinecastle).
2010, celebrated 20 years as a band leader with the release of his 20th Anniversary
album, the last release by Pinecastle Records before the label went out of business.
2010, won the IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year for the song “Give This Message to Your Heart” (with Dailey and Vincent).
2012, released What Really Matters album (Compass).
2014, released “Pull Your Savior In” album commemorating his 25th year as a solo artist.
2018, inducted into the SPBGMA Hall of Greats.

Stetson and Cia

Posted on December 27, 2013March 30, 2016 by WR

STETSON AND CIA

From Nashville.
Stetson Adkinsson (guitar) and Cia Cherryholmes (banjo) formed a duo in 2011. Stetson is a singer/songwriter from Colorado. His family runs an outdoor hunting operation there. Stetson is a hunting and fly fishing guide. Cia began performing with her family band Cherryholmes at age 15. They were married in 2012.
2012, released first album Stetson & Cia (no label).
2013, released Songs of the Fall (no label) and changed the name of their act to “Songs of the Fall.”

Stetson Family, The

Posted on December 27, 2013April 18, 2024 by WR

THE STETSON FAMILY

From Melbourne, Australia.
Formed in 2008 by Nadine Budge (guitar/vocals), John Bartholomeusz (guitar), Andrew Carswell (mandolin), Colin Swain (banjo), Luke Richardson (bass). They are not a family nor are any of them named Stetson. Before they became a bluegrass/acoustic band, they played synth rock.
2008, released first album Hey Sister Mary Where’d You Get That Gun (no label).
2011, released “The Devil in His Sunday Best” album (no label).
2012, were nominated for Best Song and Best Group at the Victorian & National Country Music Awards (Australia).
2012, Nadine Gudge was invited to IBMA Songwriter Showcase in Nashville for her song “O Winding River.”
2015, released True North album (no label).
2024, released The Stars, If You Look Closely album (no label).

Stevens Family Bluegrass Band, The

Posted on March 23, 2014December 22, 2017 by WR

THE STEVENS FAMILY BLUEGRASS BAND

From Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.
Began performing together as a bluegrass gospel band in 2007.
The Stevens Family Bluegrass Band members include J.W. Stevens (banjo) and Nancy “Mamma” Stevens (vocals) and five of their ten children: Sissy (bass), Luke (guitar), Ben (mandolin), Sam (fiddle) and Tommy (vocals).
2014, released album Down On The Farm (Mountain Fever).
2014, announced that they were no longer going to perform/tour together as a family band. Luke and Ben left to pursue their own ministry careers.

Stevens Sisters, The

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

THE STEVENS SISTERS (BETH AND APRIL)

From Hampton, Tennessee.
Since they were children (Beth was 12, April was 8) they have been performing with their parents, Douglas and Betty Stevens as The Stevens Family.
1996, released Sisters album (Rounder) and sang on the Grand Ole Opry for the first time.
Beth previously worked with the East Tennessee State University Bluegrass Band, which included Adam Steffey, Barry Bales and Tim Stafford (1988).
Beth has a master’s degree in psychology (ETSU). She is a teacher when she’s not performing.
1997, performed in Holland on New Year’s Eve with the National Symphony Orchestra, broadcast on national television.
2002, performed and recorded with Dolly Parton on her album “Halos and Horns.”
2005, April married and decided to stop touring.
2007, Beth formed her own band Beth Stevens and Edge. Her father plays guitar. Other members include Gary Laws (bass), Matt Leadbetter (resonator guitar), Chase Johner (mandolin.)

Stevens, Mike

Posted on December 27, 2013April 27, 2022 by WR

MIKE STEVENS

From Bright’s Grove, Ontario, Canada.
One of the few professional harmonica players in bluegrass.
1990, voted Central Canada’s Entertainer of the Year (Central Canadian Bluegrass Awards).
Made frequent appearances on the Grand Ole Opry with Jim and Jesse. Also worked extensively with The Lewis Family.
1991, recorded Blowin’ Up a Storm album (Pinecastle).
1994, was made a Kentucky Colonel by the governor of Kentucky for his contributions to bluegrass music.
1994, released “Life’s Railway to Heaven” (no label).
1995, released “Colin’s Cross” album (no label).
2005, recorded a duet album with Raymond W. McLain Old Time Mojo (Corvealis).
In recent years, he has been performing for disadvantaged and at-risk youth all over Canada.
He was diagnosed with Lyme Disease and spent more than a year recovering.
2022, released “Breath in the World; Breath Out Music” album (Stony Plain).

Stevenson, Art

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

ART STEVENSON (AND HIGH WATER)

From Babcock, Wisconsin.
Formed in 1994.
Perform weekly at a club called Schmidt’s Corner Tavern, in central Wisconsin.
Band features Art Stevenson (guitar, harmonica), Stephanie Stevenson (bass), Dale Reichert (banjo) and Chris Silver (mandolin).
Art and Stephanie Stevenson also perform with a retro-country band called the Goose Island Ramblers.
2013, released 13th album Twilight (no label).

Stewart, Ronnie

Posted on December 27, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

RONNIE STEWART

From Paoli, Indiana. He has a ranch called Sleepy Valley Ranch.
Began playing fiddle at age 3. Also learned to play guitar, banjo, mandolin and is equally skilled on all of them.
Age 9, made several guest appearances with Lester Flatt and appeared on one of his live albums.
1977-1990, played with his parents in The Stewart Family Band. He was known as “Fiddlin’ Ronnie Stewart.”
1989, also worked with Curly Seckler and recorded two albums with him.
1991-1994, Gary Brewer and the Kentucky Ramblers.
1995, formed his own band “Little Creek.”
1996, did some fill-in work with Petticoat Junction.
1997-2003 played banjo and fiddle with the Lynn Morris band.
2000, he and his wife built a log house, from trees on his ranch.
2000, won the IBMA award for Fiddle Player of the Year.
2001, released solo project Time Stands Still (Rounder).
2003, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South.
2007, joined the Dan Tyminski Band.
2008, recorded and performed with Longview.
2009, formed (with Adam Steffey) the Boxcars.
2011, won the IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.
2017, joined the Seldom Scene, playing banjo and fiddle.

Stoffel, Mark

Posted on July 15, 2020October 21, 2024 by WR

MARK STOFFEL

From Munich, Germany. Since 2001, has lived in Southern Illinois.
1979, asked his parents for a ukelele and was given a mandolin instead. So he learned how to play it.
1989, formed a group with singer/songwriter Wil Maring called Shady Mix.
2006, joined Chris Jones and the Night Drivers, playing mandolin.
2016, became a U.S. Citizen.
2020, released first solo project Coffee and Cake (Mountain Home).
2024, released True Tones album (Mountain Home).

Stogdill, Brady

Posted on December 26, 2020 by WR

BRADY STOGDILL

From Heltonville, Indiana (originally from Bedford, Indiana).
1993, he was a member of the original “Bluegrass Youth All-Star Band” that performed at the IBMA Awards Show in 1993 featuring Chris Thile (mandolin), Michael Cleveland (fiddle), Cody Kilby (guitar), Josh Williams (banjo) and Stogdill (bass).
1995-2019, played guitar with a Bloomington, Indiana group called The Not Too Bad Bluegrass Band.
2020, released a solo project Better Late Than Never (Dean Music).

Stonemans, The

Posted on December 27, 2013February 23, 2024 by WR

THE STONEMANS (THE STONEMAN FAMILY)

From Galax, Virginia.
Earnest V. “Pop” Stoneman was one of the early pioneers of recorded country music (his first record was made on September 4, 1924 for Okeh records). He is known as the first person to ever make a record playing the autoharp. Likewise he was the only country musician to record on both Edison cylinders and modern stereo recordings.
Pop sired 23 children, many of whom were musically gifted.
The first Stoneman Family Band began performing in the 1950’s at the Hotel Charles in Hughesville, Maryland. They were also known as The Bluegrass Champs.
During their heydey, the group included Pop (autoharp, guitar), Scotty (fiddle), Van (guitar), Donna (mandolin), Roni (banjo) and Jimmy (bass). They recorded several albums for MGM, Starday, RCA, Liberty and other labels.
They rose to popularity during the 1960’s folk music boom. They moved to Los Angeles and for a season had their own TV show. They also appeared on the Jimmy Dean Variety Show and played the Fillmore Auditorium, the UCLA Folk Festival and the Monterrey Folk Festival. While they were in LA, fiddler Scotty Stoneman also performed with the Kentucky Colonels.
1967, they were voted Vocal Group of the Year by the Country Music Association.
1968, Pop died but the group continued to perform together in various forms until the early 1990’s.
1973, Scotty died.
1973, Roni (real name Veronica) Stoneman joined the cast of the “Hee Haw” television series.
Donna was often called “The First Lady of the Mandolin.”
1995, Van died.
2000, The Stoneman Family was presented with the IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award.
2001, Jimmy died.
2003, Roni formed her own band called Hillbilly Fever.
2008, Pop Stoneman was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2024, Roni died at the age of 85.

Stoney Creek

Posted on April 23, 2016June 18, 2021 by WR

STONEY CREEK

From Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Formed in the early 2000’s. 2015 lineup: Libby Files (bass), Brett Smeltzer (mandolin), Kenton Catlett (guitar), and Troy Stangle (banjo). Catlett and Stangle replaced previous members Ed Barney (guitar) and Darrell Sanders (banjo).
2010, released “Hot Off the Press” album (no label).
2011, released “Live in Concert” album (no label).
2012, released “Are You Ready” album (no label).
2016, released Memories and Tears album (no label).
2017, released “Live on Location” album (no label).
2021, released A Miner’s Life album (Cal’vry Music).

Stoney Lonesome

Posted on December 27, 2013November 23, 2021 by WR

STONEY LONESOME

From St. Paul, Minnesota.
Formed in 1982 by by guitarist and lead singer Kate MacKenzie and banjo player Kevin Barnes.
They were voted Best Bluegrass Band by the Minnesota Music Academy every year from 1984 through 1989.
They were regulars on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion” radio program. They provided backup for such artists as Johnny Gimble, Rose Maddox, Minnie Pearl, Mac Wiseman and many others.
MacKenzie was also part of Garrison Keillor’s Hopeful Gospel Quartet (with Keillor, Robin and Linda Williams.)
1991, released Lonesome Tonight album (Red House).
1992, released Blue Heartache album (Red House).
1995, MacKenzie left the band.

Stowe, Ferrell

Posted on December 27, 2013March 2, 2020 by WR

FERRELL STOWE

From Lebanon, Missouri. Lives in Vanleer, Tennessee.
Plays resonator guitar (Dobro™) with several bands: George Clark and Dixie Flyer, the James Price Band, Dave Leatherman and Stone County, Cedar Hill.
2005, released Stobro’s Blues album (no label). His hero Uncle Josh Graves attended his album release party at the Station Inn in Nashville.
Has won the Midwest SPBGMA award for “Dobro Player of the Year” nine times.
2007, several tunes from album were used for the soundtrack to the movie “Big Stan” starring Rob Schneider (former star of Saturday Night Live).
2011, released “Tribute to Josh Graves” album.

Story, Carl

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

CARL STORY

From Lenoir, North Carolina.
Formed the first version of his band “The Ramblin’ Mountaineers” in 1934.
Rose to prominence on radio station WHKY in Hickory, North Carolina.
Was a disk jockey in Greer, South Carolina.
1942, worked for a year with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, playing fiddle. Left to join the Navy in 1943. After the war, he resumed playing with his own band.
1947, made first commercial recordings.
1957, his band became a full-blown bluegrass band with the Brewster Brothers providing the instrumentation.
Called “The Father of Bluegrass Gospel Music.”
Recorded more than 65 gospel albums, most of them on Starday Records.
1958, his “Gospel Quartet Favorites” (Mercury Records) was the first bluegrass gospel album.
Specialized in a hard-core mountain style of bluegrass gospel singing.
Died in 1995. Was still performing until his death at age 78.
After Story’s death, mandolin player Danny Arms reorganized the band as Carl Story’s Rambling Mountaineers.
2007, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

A Life In Rural Music, Bluegrass, Gospel, And Mountain Music 1942-1959 (Bear Family) A 4-CD box set of Story’s most popular recordings.
Bluegrass Gospel Collection (CMH, 2004)

Stover, Don

Posted on June 23, 2017 by WR

DON STOVER

From Ameagle, West Virginia. Also lived in Boston and in the Baltimore, MD area.
An early banjo player who influenced Bill Keith, Tony Trischka, Bela Fleck, Danny Barnes, many others.
Began learning to play 3-finger style banjo after hearing Earl Scruggs in 1945.
He was a coal miner when he began performing with the Lilly Brothers (Everett and Bea) who were also from West Virginia. He was a featured artist with the Lilly Brothers for many years. They appeared together as The Lilly Brothers with Don Stover.
First band: The Coal River Boys.
1952, began an 18-year stint with the Lilly Brothers at Hillbilly Ranch in downtown Boston, playing seven nights a week. They were originally called the Confederate Mountaineers.
1965, worked also with Bill Harrell and the Virginians.
1968, worked dates with Doc Watson and Tex Logan. Performed with them at the Olympics in Mexico City.
1970, moved back to West Virginia.
1972, released Things in Life album (Rounder). Don is composer of the song Things in Life, which has been covered by numerous bluegrass artists.
1978-1990, worked with Bill Clifton, Red Rector, Jimmy Gaudreau and other musicians. Played the World’s Fair in Knoxville in 1982.
1994, had surgery for a cancerous brain tumor.
1996, died at the age of 68.
2008, was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.

Stringbean

Posted on December 27, 2013 by WR

STRINGBEAN (SEE DAVID AKEMAN)

Strength in Numbers

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
A bluegrass/jazz supergroup that included Sam Bush (mandolin), Bela Fleck (banjo), Mark O’Connor (fiddle/guitar), Edgar Meyer (bass) and Jerry Douglas (dobro™). They were all living in the same Nashville neighborhood.
Recorded one album in 1989 for the MCA Masters Series Telluride Sessions. Fleck and Bush were still part of the New Grass Revival at the time.
Originally called themselves “Telluride” because they performed live together at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. They found out that another band was using that name and had trademarked the name for band use.
Backed Steve Earle on his 1989 album Copperhead Road (MCA).

Strings, Billy

Posted on October 31, 2014November 8, 2024 by WR

BILLY STRINGS

From Iona, Michigan. Also lived in Traverse City, Michigan. Moved to Nashville.
Real name: William Apostol.
While in middle school, he played in a metal band called To Once Darkened Skies. He dropped out of high school twice and after finally graduating, he rediscovered his love for bluegrass and began performing with mandolinist Don Julin, also from Michigan. Julin has worked with a variety of bands including a reggae group called the Microtones. He is also the author of the instruction book Mandolin For Dummies.
2014, Strings and Julin released first album called Fiddle Tune X (no label) which was recorded live at various venues around Michigan. They used one microphone in each location to get an old-time sound.
2016, won the IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2017, released first solo project “Turmoil & Tinfoil” (no label) produced by Greensky Bluegrass’ Glenn Brow.
2019, won IBMA Awards for New Artist of the Year and Guitar Player of the Year.
2019, released Home album (Rounder).
2021, won the Grammy Award for his album Home (Rounder).
2024, released Live, Vol 1 album (Reprise).
2024, released Highway Prayers album (Reprise).

Stuart, Chris

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

CHRIS STUART

From San Diego, California. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida.
Twice has won the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at MerleFest,
His songs have been recorded by such artists as Suzanne Thomas, Claire Lynch, Sally Jones, Salamander Crossing, others.
Plays banjo and guitar. A former member of the New York-based band Cornerstone.
Has a degree in Medieval History.
1996, moved to San Diego to work as a computer consultant for a tech firm. Played in a local band called Highway 52.
2002, formed his own band called Backcountry and in 2003 went full-time with the band.
2003, released Saints and Strangers album (Backcountry).
2004, released Mojave River album (Backcountry).
2005, band includes banjo player Janet Beazley (formerly of Copperline) and Paul Lee (formerly of Open Road.)
2006, performed in Oman (middle east, south of Saudi Arabia).
2007, Eric Uglum joined the band (mandolin/guitar) along with stepsons Christian (fiddle) and Austin (bass) Ward.
2008, released Crooked Man album (Backcountry).
2009, co-produced the IBMA awards show and won the award for Song of the Year (“Don’t Throw Mama’s Flowers Away” recorded by Danny Paisley).
2011, began working as a duo with Janet Beazley.
2011-2013, wrote a regular column for Bluegrass Today. He also is a frequent contributor to Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine.
2012, 2013, produced the IBMA Awards Show.

Stuart, Marty

Posted on December 27, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

MARTY STUART

From Philadelphia, Mississippi.
Full name: John Martin Stuart. He was nicknamed Marty after country music legend Marty Robbins.
Began in career in music working with fellow Mississippian Carl Jackson in the bluegrass gospel group The Sullivan Family.
Hero: Clarence White (owns one of his guitars.)
First exposure to bluegrass: heard Bill Monroe and the Sullivan Family at the National Guard Armory in Jackson, Alabama in 1970.
1972, at age 13 he played mandolin and lead guitar with Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass (until Lester’s death in 1979.) Lester always referred to him as “Little Marty Stuart.”
1979-1985, worked with Johnny Cash.
1986, signed with CBS records and began his solo career.
Describes his music as “hillbilly rock.” Released album and single by that name in 1989.
1992, toured with Travis Tritt in the “No Hats Tour.” Marty and Travis have recorded several hits songs together, including “The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’ Anymore.”
1992, joined the Grand Ole Opry. Performed with The Opry Bluegrass Band (with Ricky Skaggs, Alison Krauss, Vince Gill and Earl Scruggs). Also has a hillbilly band (called the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band) that performs on the Opry, playing old-time music. His touring band is called The Fabulous Superlatives.
Hobby: photography. Has published a book of his photos featuring country and bluegrass music personalities.
2001, was elected to a fourth term as President of the Country Music Foundation. His personal collection of memorabilia is on display in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2000, 2006, hosted the IBMA Awards Show.
2005, released Live At The Ryman album (Universal) with his band the Fabulous Superlatives and special guests.
2008, began hosting his own TV program on the RFD-TV network.

Sugarbeat

Posted on December 27, 2013April 3, 2019 by WR

SUGARBEAT

Formed in 1992 by Tony Furtado (banjo), Matt Flinner (mandolin), Ben Demerath (guitar) and Sally Truitt (bass).
1992, won the Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Contest (which was also the first time they ever played together.)
1993, released self titled album (Planet Bluegrass).
Style: bluegrass fused with rock, jazz, reggae.
Broke up in 1996.
2000, did a reunion concert at the Rockygrass Festival.

Sullivan, Jerry and Tammy

Posted on December 26, 2013April 24, 2017 by WR

JERRY AND TAMMY SULLIVAN

From Wagarville, Alabama.
Father and daughter duo. Began performing together in the late 70’s, when Tammy was only 14 years old.
Jerry began his career in bluegrass in 1952 with Red Spurlock, then Red Allen and Frank Wakefield. He also performed as a member of the Sullivan Family, a legendary bluegrass gospel group.
1992, recorded an album with Marty Stuart called Joyful Noise for the Country Music Foundation.
1999, signed with Ricky Skaggs’ Ceili Records and recorded Tomorrow album.
2014, Jerry Sullivan died.
2017, Tammy Sullivan died at age 52 (cancer).

Sullivan Family, The

Posted on December 26, 2013June 7, 2023 by WR

THE SULLIVAN FAMILY

From St. Stephens, Alabama.
The first band to use the term bluegrass gospel to describe their music.
Originally included Arthur, Margie, Aubrey, Enoch and Emmett Sullivan. Jerry Sullivan also performed with the band.
1949, began performing on a weekly radio broadcast over WPBB in Jackson, Alabama.
For many years, they hosted a bluegrass festival at their own 69-acre park in St. Stephens, Alabama.
For years, they performed more than 300 concerts a year and published a newsletter called The Bluegrass Gospel News.
Carl Jackson and Marty Stuart are former members of the Sullivan Family band. Marty Stuart’s first exposure to bluegrass was seeing The Sullivan Family as a youngster.
Bill Monroe gave Margie Sullivan the title “The First Lady of Bluegrass Gospel Music.”
2011, Enoch Sullivan died at the age of 79.
2014, Jerry Sullivan died at the age of 78.
2023, Margie Sullivan died at the age of 90.

Summertown Road

Posted on December 26, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

SUMMERTOWN ROAD

From Ashland, Kentucky.
Formed in 2008 by Jack Hicks (banjo), John Rigsby (fiddle/mandolin), Bo Isaac (guitar) and Randy Thomas (bass). Hicks and Rigsby had been working together with Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain. Isaac and Thomas were previously in a band together called Bo Isaac and the Wheelrights.
The band was named after the song “Summertime Road” recorded by Marty Raybon.
2010, released first album Summertown Road (Rounder).
Bandleader Jack Hicks played with Bill Monroe from 1971 to 1973. Has also worked with The Whites, Jim and Jesse, Lester Flatt, Sonny James and Conway Twitty.
2010, fiddle/mandolin player Rigsby was replaced by Zach Rambo, then by Steve Thomas.
2011, disbanded with several members forming Bo Isaacs and the Rounders.

Summer and Bray

Posted on September 2, 2020 by WR

See MOUNTAIN FAITH

From Sylva, North Carolina.
They are a brother-sister duo, Summer Brooke McMahon and Braydon McMahon, formerly performing in their family band Mountain Faith.

Summer Wages

Posted on July 4, 2018July 4, 2018 by WR

SUMMER WAGES

From North Carolina.
A band that was together from 1983-1988.
Original band included Craig Smith (banjo), Barry Berrier (guitar), Rick Allred (mandolin), Garland Carter (bass) and Kenneth Berrier (Dobro™). Jim Mills (banjo) replaced Craig Smith in 1986.
1983, released “Summer Wages” album (Rebel).
1984, released “Reflections” album (Rebel).
1987, released “Can’t Stop Now” album (Rebel).
Carter (bass) died in 2010.

Surrett, Tim

Posted on December 26, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

TIM SURRETT

From Canton, North Carolina.
1992, joined the Kingsmen, an award-winning gospel group from Asheville, NC. Sang lead and played bass.
1992, recorded a solo project called “Gospel Music Salutes its Mountain Heritage” (with Karen Peck and Steve Gulley) on his own record label, which morphed into Mountain Home Records, a division of the Horizon Music Group.
1995, married Sonya Isaacs and soon thereafter joined her family group, the Isaacs. They were later divorced.
1999, released Tim Surrett’s Mountain Home (Mountain Home).
2003, joined the Carolina Boys.
2006, released solo project Tim Surrett (Crossroads).
2007, was a founding member of Balsam Range.

Sutton, Bryan

Posted on December 26, 2013January 12, 2017 by WR

BRYAN SUTTON

From Candler, North Carolina. Lives in Nashville.
Began playing guitar at age 8. Heavily influenced by Doc Watson and Tony Rice.
1992, first professional job: playing guitar with Karen Peck, a southern gospel artist.
1993, moved to Nashville and joined a gospel group called Mid South.
1995, joined Ricky Skaggs’ band Kentucky Thunder and appeared on Ricky’s “Bluegrass Rules” album.
1998, left Kentucky Thunder to devote more time to his family and his work as a session musician in Nashville.
1999, recorded and toured with Dolly Parton.
2000, released Ready To Go album (Sugar Hill).
2001, worked with the Dixie Chicks on their “Home” album and tour.
2003, began performing with Hot Rize, taking the place of the late Charles Sawtelle.
2003, released Bluegrass Guitar album (Sugar Hill).
2004, toured with Earl Scruggs.
2006, released Not Too Far From The Tree album (Sugar Hill).
2007, won a Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance for his duet recording with Doc Watson.
2009, released Almost Live album (Sugar Hill).
2014, released Into My Own album (Sugar Hill).
2015, won his 8th IBMA award for Guitar Player of the Year (he also won in 2000, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2011 and 2013).
2016, released The More I Learn album (Sugar Hill).
2016, began touring with his own band which included Casey Campbell (mandolin), Sam Grisman (bass) and Mike Bartlett (fiddle).

Sweet Potato Pie

Posted on December 26, 2013December 30, 2015 by WR

SWEET POTATO PIE

From North Carolina.
An all-female bluegrass band featuring Sonya Stead (guitar), Missy Pyne (mandolin), Crystal Richardson (banjo), Ashley Davis (fiddle), Julie Brown (bass).
They call their music “sweetgrass.”
2009, released Nothing’s the Same album (no label).
2010, released Journey Called Life album (Mountain Fever).
2012, released Brand New Day album (Mountain Fever).

Swift Creek

Posted on May 14, 2016November 15, 2022 by WR

SWIFT CREEK

From Raleigh, North Carolina.
Formed in 2010 by Kevin Brown (guitar, lead vocals), Casey Elder (mandolin), Dennis Hoyle (bass), Ashley Kovacs (fiddle) and Ann Searcy (vocals).
2015, Kovacs left the band and was replaced by Stephen Fraleigh (fiddle and banjo).
2012, released Winner Winner Chicken Dinner album (Vital).
2016, released “Magnolia” album (Vital).

Remington Ryde

Posted on November 18, 2017June 2, 2020 by WR

REMINGTON RYDE

From McClure, Pennsylvania.
Formed in 2005 by Ryan Frankhouser (guitar, vocals). Other band members: Billy Lee Cox (banjo), Warren Blair (fiddle), Richard Egolf (bass) and Stanley Efaw (mandolin, banjo, guitar).
Frankhouser and his band also host their own Remington Ryde Bluegrass Festival each July in Pennsylvania
2005, released “Purely Bluegrass” album (no label).
2008, released The Ryde album (Green Valley).
2010, released Grandpa Was My Guide album (Green Valley).
2017, released A Storyteller’s Memory album (Pinecastle), a tribute to the music of James King.
2020, banjo player Billy Box retired from the band.

Reno Brothers, The

Posted on December 23, 2013December 14, 2021 by WR

THE RENO BROTHERS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1984, broke up as a band (not as brothers) in 2001.
Includes Dale, Don Wayne and Ronnie—the three sons of banjo legend Don Reno.
Dale and Don Wayne worked with their father until his death in 1984.
Ronnie had formerly sang and played mandolin with Don Reno, Red Smiley and the Tennessee Cut-ups, worked with the Osborne Brothers and Merle Haggard.
1982, Don Wayne and Dale previously played together in a group called The Cripple Creek Quartet which recorded a Grammy-nominated album for Reader’s Digest. It sold more than 100,000 copies.
They toured with Vern Gosdin, the Whites, Randy Travis, Billy Joe Royal, Exile, Bill Anderson, Porter Wagoner and others.
They were frequent performers on the Nashville Network and CMT.
1988, released self titled album (Step One Records).
1992, released Kentucky Gold album (Webco).
1993, they hosted a TV program on the Americana Television Network called “Reno’s Old Time Music Festival.” (The network folded in 1995). The show was revived by Ronnie Reno a few years later on the RFD-TV Network.
1994, released Acoustic Celebration album (Webco).
1996, released Drawing from the Well album (Webco).
1998, released Three Part Harmony album (Pinecastle).
2001, disbanded with Ronnie forming his own band The Reno Tradition and Don Wayne and Dale playing with Hayseed Dixie.
2004, Don Wayne formed The Reno Revival to teach his father’s banjo technique. Conducts banjo camps and workshops.
2013, Don Wayne and Dale teamed up with Mitch Harrell to record a new album “Reno Bound” (John Boy & Billy) under the name Reno and Harrell, the same name used by their fathers when they worked together.
2021, Don Wayne joined The Farm Hands.

Reno, Don

Posted on December 23, 2013December 23, 2013 by WR

DON RENO

From Spartanburg, South Carolina.
One of the innovators and early masters of the bluegrass (three-finger style) banjo.
Like Earl Scruggs, learned to play the three-finger style from Snuffy Jenkins.
Began pro career at age 12, playing banjo with the Morris Brothers.
Mid-1940’s, was playing banjo with Arthur Smith and the Carolina Cracker Jacks when Bill Monroe invited him to join his band. Reno declined in order to serve in the Army, and Monroe hired Earl Scruggs instead.
1948, discharged from the Army and replaced Scruggs in Monroe’s band. He developed his own style of playing banjo, so as not to be compared directly with Earl.
1949, started his own band The Tennessee Cutups—the group he headed up the rest of his life. He was joined in this band by guitarist Red Smiley and they played together throughout the 1950’s and 60’s.
1964, teamed up with guitarist Bill Harrell to form Reno and Harrell. They (backed by their band The Tennessee Cutups) recorded several albums together.
Was the banjo player on the original recording of “Dueling Banjos”. He and the composer of the song Arthur Smith recorded it under the original name “Feudin’ Banjos” using a tenor banjo played by Arthur and a 5-string played by Don. The tune was later re-named “Duelin’ Banjos” by The Dillards and subsequently recorded by Eric Weissburg and Steve Mandel for the hit movie “Deliverance.”
Wrote a total of 457 songs (although most were never recorded.) Most well-known songs: “I Know You’re Married, But I Love You Still” and “I’m Using My Bible for a Roadmap.” Instrumentals: “Dixie Breakdown” and “Chokin’ the Strings.”
1984, died at the age of 57.
1992, he was elected to the IBMA’s Hall of Fame along with Red Smiley, his singing partner for many years.

Reno, Don and Red Smiley

Posted on December 23, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

DON RENO, RED SMILEY (AND THE TENNESSEE CUT-UPS)

One of the of the pioneering first-generation bluegrass bands.
Very popular and influential throughout the 50’s and 60’s.
Worked numerous radio and television shows across the south, including the Old Dominion Barn Dance in Richmond, VA and the “Top of the Morning” TV show in Roanoke, VA. They also made guest appearances on the Arthur Godfrey TV Show.
They incorporated elaborate comedy routines and skits into their act. As comedians, they were known as “Chicken and Pansy Hot-Rod and the Banty-Roosters.”
Last album recorded together: May, 1971, Letter Edged in Black (Wango Records).
Smiley died in 1972. Bill Harrell replaced Red for about a dozen years, and Don kept the Tennessee Cut-ups together until his own death in 1984.
Reno and Smiley’s personal manager for many years was Carlton Haney, organizer of the first bluegrass festival in 1965 (Fincastle, VA).
1992, Reno and Smiler were inducted together into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Don Reno, Red Smiley & the Tennessee Cutups: The Early Years 1951-1959 (Gusto)
Don Ren0, Red Smiley & the Tennessee Cutups: 1959 -1963 (Gusto)
Sweethearts In Heaven – The Complete Dot Recordings 1957-1964 (Bear Family).
Bluegrass 1963 (Rural Rhythm) Recordings from their “Top of the Morning” TV Show.
True Meaning of Christmas (King) This is one of the first bluegrass Christmas albums ever recorded. It’s a classic.

Reno, Ronnie

Posted on December 23, 2013October 6, 2021 by WR

RONNIE RENO (AND THE RENO TRADITION)

From Nashville.
Oldest son of the late Don Reno.
Began performing and recording with his father and Red Smiley at the age of 8.
1968, joined the Osborne Brothers, playing guitar and singing harmony vocals.
1975, joined Merle Haggard and the Strangers.
1978, his song “Boogie Grass Band,” became a big hit for Conway Twitty.
1983, had solo country hits with “Homemade Love” and “The Letter.”
1980, appeared in a Clint Eastwood film “Bronco Billy.”
1984, formed the Reno Brothers with brothers Dale and Don Wayne.
2001, became the producer of “Reno’s Old-Time Music Festival” TV Show, broadcast on the Americana Television Network, RFD-TV and other networks.
2002, formed a new band called The Reno Tradition. Released Portfolio album (no label).
2004, helped launch new cable network called Blue Highways TV.
2013, won the IBMA Award for Broadcaster of the Year for his work on TV.
2015, released Lessons Learned album (Rural Rhythm).
2019, announced his retirement.

Retro 78

Posted on August 21, 2023 by WR

RETRO 78

From Inman, South Carolina.
Band members: Hunter Motts (banjo), Jacob Jackson (mandolin), Bill Turnbill (fiddle), Clint Groves (guitar), Brad Kaylor (bass), and Aaron Sellers (lead guitar).
2022, won the SPBGMA national band championship in Nashville.
2023, released first single “Black Vinyl 45” (Ram Cat Records)

Reynolds, Shannon Leigh

Posted on July 4, 2023 by WR

SHANNON LEIGH REYNOLDS

From Washington DC; originally from Georgia.
She is a singer/songwriter/guitarist who performs bluegrass, classic country, and other folk styles of music.
2017, formed a duo with banjo player Keith Arneson called Peace Run.
2022, formed a band called Good Bygones, performing around the Maryland, Virginia and DC areas.
2023, released “Triple Shot” album (no label), produced by Dede Wyland.

Rice, Larry

Posted on December 23, 2013January 3, 2023 by WR

LARRY RICE

Born in Danville, Virginia. Grew up in California.
A mandolin player, vocalist and songwriter.
The oldest of the Rice Brothers (Larry, Tony, Ronnie and Wyatt).
Late 60’s, played in a Southern California band called Aunt Dinah’s Quilting Party.
1969, began his professional career with J. D. Crowe’s first band, The Kentucky Mountain Boys.
1975, joined the Dickey Betts Band (Betts was a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band.)
1975, recorded first solo album “Mr. Poverty” (King Bluegrass).
1979, retired from music for several years, but returned in the 80’s to record three solo albums, a Rice Brothers album, and to form The Larry Rice Band.
1986, released Hurricanes and Daydreams album (Rebel).
1987, released Time Machine album (Rebel).
1988, released Artesia album (Rebel).
1990, released Larry and Wyatt Rice album (Rebel).
1990’s, recorded and performed with brother Tony, Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen as Out of the Woodwork and Rice, Rice, Hillman and Pedersen. Released two albums, Running Wild and Rice, Rice, Hillman and Pedersen.
1996, released Notions and Novelties album (Rebel).
2005, released Clouds Over Carolina album (Rebel).
2006, died from cancer.
2014, Rebel Records released If You Only Knew: The Best of Larry Rice, a Larry Rice retrospective album.

Rice, Tony

Posted on December 23, 2013December 31, 2020 by WR

TONY RICE

From Danville, Virginia. Grew up in southern California, near L.A.
Considered one of the greatest flatpick guitar players of all time. Until he lost his voice in the 1990’s, he was also considered one of bluegrass music’s top lead singers.
Main influence: Clarence White whom he met in 1963. (Tony owns Clarence’s Martin D-28).
1970, left California to join the Louisville-based Bluegrass Alliance.
1971, joined his brother Larry in J.D. Crowe’s band, The Kentucky Mountain Boys (later re-named The New South). While with this band, he recorded one of the most important bluegrass albums of all time: J.D. Crowe & The New South (1973, Rounder).
1975, joined the The David Grisman Quintet, playing jazz-oriented “Dawg Music.”
1977, released Tony Rice album (Rounder).
1978, released Guitar album (Rebel).
1978, released landmark Manzanita album (Rounder), the first bluegrass album without a banjo.
1980, recorded a classic album of duets with Ricky Skaggs Skaggs & Rice: The Essential Old-Time Country Duet Recordings (Sugar Hill).
1981, arranged the first Bluegrass Album Band recording with friends Doyle Lawson, J.D. Crowe, Bobby Hicks, and Todd Phillips. The album sold so well, five more were recorded and the ensemble won the IBMA award for Instrumental Group of the Year (1990).
1983, released Church Street Blues album (Sugar Hill).
1984, released Cold On The Shoulder album (Rounder).
1985, formed his own band, The Tony Rice Unit.
1987, released and album of duets with guitarist Norman Blake Blake & Rice (Rounder). This was followed up with Blake & Rice 2 (1990, Rounder).
1988, released Me & My Guitar album (Rounder).
1993, his home in Florida was destroyed in a hurricane. His guitar was underwater for three hours, but Tony dried it out very slowly and reported that “it sounds better than ever.”
1993, participated in a recording session at David Grisman’s Dawg Studios in Berkeley, California with Grisman and Jerry Garcia. The recordings were later released as The Pizza Tapes (Acoustic Disk).
1994, developed voice problems, a malady called Muscle Tension Dysphonia and was forced to curtail his singing.
1995, the Tony Rice Unit won the IBMA award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
1996, released Tony Rice Sings Gordon Lightfoot album (Rounder), his last featuring vocals.
His hobbies: photography and collecting/repairing old watches.
1997, 2000, recorded and performed with brother Larry, Chris Hillman and Herb Pederson as Out of the Woodwork and also as Rice, Rice, Hillman and Pederson.
1998, released Native American album (Rounder).
1998, released Tony Rice Plays And Sings Bluegrass album (Rounder).
2000, released The Bluegrass Guitar Collection album (Rounder).
2001, began performing and recording with Peter Rowan. Released Quartet album (Rounder) and You Were There for Me album (Rounder).
2007, won his fifth IBMA award for Guitar Player of the Year (also won in 1990, 1991, 1994 and 1997).
2008, worked dates with Mountain Heart.
2010, his biography Still Inside: The Tony Rice Story was was published, co-authored by Tim Stafford and Caroline Wright.
2011, released Hartford-Rice-Clements album (Small Dog a-Barkin’) with John Hartford and Vassar Clements. This album was recorded in John Hartford’s home in 1988 but was not released until 2011.
2013, was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. His memorable acceptance speech included a seemingly miraculous recovery of his voice.
2020, died on Christmas day at the age of 69.

Rice, Wyatt

Posted on December 23, 2013April 13, 2016 by WR

WYATT RICE (AND SANTA CRUZ)

Born in California. Grew up in Florida. Lives in Ferrum, Virginia.
Like his brother Tony, he is an accomplished flat-pick guitarist. Began playing at age 6.
For 15 years, he was a member of the Tony Rice Unit.
1990, released solo album New Market Gap (Rounder).
1995, formed his own band Santa Cruz.
1996, released Picture in a Tear album (Rounder).
2003, joined Ronnie Bowman’s band The Committee.
Operates Rice Recording Studio where he produces and masters recordings. He also teaches guitar and continues to perform solo and with other artists.
2016, released Something Out of the Blue album (Mountain Fever) with Massachusetts banjo player Dan Menzone (of the group Traver Hollow). The call themselves the Wyatt Rice & Dan Menzone Alliance.

Rich in Tradition

Posted on December 23, 2013April 15, 2023 by WR

RICH IN TRADITION

From Low Gap, North Carolina.
Formed in 2008 by Mickey Galyean (guitar), Greg Jones (mandolin), Brad Hiatt (bass), Tim Martin (fiddle), Jay Adams (banjo).
2010, released Black Mountain Special album (Mountain Roads).
2010, Galyean and Hiatt left to form a new band Micky Galyean and Cullen’s Bridge. New lineup: Jay Adams (banjo), Greg Jones (mandolin), Ronnie Edwards (guitar), Jake Harbour (bass).
2014, released Lonesomeville album (Mountain Roads).

Richardson, Deanie

Posted on December 23, 2013October 16, 2020 by WR

DEANIE RICHARDSON

From Kingston Springs, Tennessee, near Nashville.
An award-winning fiddler, she has worked with country and bluegrass artists such as Vince Gill, Patty Loveless, Emmy Lou Harris, Hank Williams Jr, Marty Stewart, Travis Tritt and Holly Dunn. She first performed at the Grand Ole Opry at age 13 and later became a member of the Grand Ole Opry staff band. Her brother
1989, was with The New Coon Creek Girls.
1991, had her own band called Second Fiddle and released In the Mood album (Webco).
2012, began touring internationally with the Chieftains.
2013, joined a band called The Likely Culprits with Ashby Frank (later replaced by Ronnie Bowman), Garnet Bowman and Melanie Cannon on vocals, Brandon Bostic (guitar/banj0) and Austin Ward (bass).
2013, joined Sister Sadie with bandmates Dale Ann Bradley (guitar), Tina Adair (mandolin), Gena Britt (banjo), Beth Lawrence (bass).
2019, released Love Hard, Work Hard, Play Hard album (Pinecastle)
2020, won the IBMA Award for Fiddle Player of the Year.

Richardson, Kevin

Posted on December 23, 2013February 10, 2017 by WR

KEVIN RICHARDSON (AND CUTTIN’ EDGE)

From Seagrove, North Carolina.
2002, joined Lou Reid and Carolina.
2008, joined the Larry Stephenson Band.
2012, formed his own band Cuttin’ Edge (Richardson-Guitar, Boyd Hulin-Mandolin, Scott Burgess-Bass, Chris Ward-Banjo). The band is known as KRACE to their fans.
2012, released first album Kevin Richardson & Cuttin’ Edge (Mountain Fever).
2014, returned to the Larry Stephenson Band.
2017, retired from music to spend more time with family.

Ric-O-Chet

Posted on February 19, 2017February 19, 2017 by WR

RIC-O-CHET

From Boone, North Carolina.
Formed in 1993 by Jimmy Trivette (bass), Steve Lewis (banjo), Randy Greer (guitar) and David Pendley (mandolin.)
1994, released Ricochet album (Rebel)
1995, released Carolina Memories album (Rebel).
There was an Oklahoma country music band also called Ricochet which had a #1 hit record on Columbia Records called “Daddy’s Money.”

Rigneys, The

Posted on December 23, 2013April 12, 2020 by WR

THE RIGNEYS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
A family band featuring Mark Rigney (banjo), Melissa Rigney (bass) and their two sons Andrew (guitar, mandolin, banjo) and Grant (mandolin, fiddle).
They began performing as Rigney Family Bluegrass, then changed to The Rigneys.
2012, released “Familiar Paths” album produced by Stephen Mougin.
2013, released “Double of Nothing” album, also produced by Mougin.

Rigsby, Don

Posted on December 23, 2013March 26, 2017 by WR

DON RIGSBY

From Isonville, Kentucky.
One of the best known tenor singers in bluegrass music. Plays mandolin.
Began professional career as a member of the Charlie Sizemore Band. Also worked with Vern Gosdin, the Bluegrass Cardinals, J.D. Crowe and the New South and True Grass.
1995, replaced Dan Tyminski in the Lonesome River Band.
1998, 2000, released solo projects.
1997, recorded with the group Longview, winning IBMA awards for Recorded Event of the Year and Song of the Year (1998).
1998, released A Vision album (Sugar Hill).
1999, toured with Suzanne Thomas.
1999, released first of two albums of duets with Dudley Connell Meet Me By Moonlight (Sugar Hill).
While with the Lonesome River Band, he occasionally appeared on stage as “Soup Bean” with his sidekick “Cornbread” (Kenny Smith) in bizarre comedy routines.
2000, released Empty Old Mailbox album (Sugar Hill).
2001, released second album with Dudley Connell Another Saturday Night (Sugar Hill).
2001, left the Lonesome River Band to become the first Director of the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music (Morehead, KY) and to perform with his own group, Rock County and Longview. (Rock County disbanded in 2004).
2003, released The Midnight Call album (Sugar Hill).
2006, began performing with a new band called Midnight Call (named after a popular song on one of his albums.)
2006, released Hillbilly Heartache album (Rebel).
2010, played dates as Rigsby, Leadbetter and Bennett with Phil and Matt Leadbetter and Richard Bennett.
2010, released The Voice of God album (Rebel).
2012, reunited with Ronnie Bowman and Kenny Smith (former bandmates in the Lonesome River Band) to form a part-time band called The Rambling Rooks (later to be called Band of Ruhks).
2013, sang harmony vocals on Alan Jackson’s “The Bluegrass Album.”
2013, released Doctors Orders: A Tribute to Ralph Stanley album (Rebel).
2014, recorded an album of duets with California guitarist David Thom.
2016, formed Flashback, with Richard Bennett, Phil Leadbetter, Curt Chapman and Stuart Wyrick.

Rigsby, John

Posted on December 23, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

JOHN RIGSBY

From Sandy Hook, Kentucky.
Began his career with Dwight Whitley and the Sideroads while in high school.
1995, joined Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys, playing mandolin.
1996, released a duet album with Ralph Stanley II “Clinch Mountain Echos: Songs in the Stanley Tradition.”
1998, worked with Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain.
1999, returned to work with Ralph Stanley, playing mandolin. Then, in 2004, switched to fiddle, replacing James Price.
2000, released solo project Forks of the Ivy (Hay Holler).
2008, joined Summertown Road.

RiverBend

Posted on November 16, 2021September 11, 2024 by WR

RIVERBEND

From St. Louis, Missouri.
Formed in 2015 by Aaron Muskopf (guitar), Andy Novara (mandolin), Will Miskall (bass), Kris Shewmake (banjo), Blake Korte (Dobro™).
They specialize in traditional bluegrass (ala Stanley Brothers, Vern Williams, Red Allen).
2021, released first single “You’d Better Get Right” (Englehart Music).
2024, released single “Crazy Enough for Me” (Englehart)

Roberts, Chris

Posted on June 19, 2018 by WR

CHRIS ROBERTS

From Montana. He has also lived in New York City.
He is a singer/songwriter now living in Nashville.
He has appeared in several Broadway plays and musical productions, including The Civil War with Larry Gatlin, who became a friend and mentor.
2008, was a member of the group One Flew South and recorded one album for Decca Records Last of the Good Guys.
2017, released a bluegrass single “Boeing Boeing 707” (Rural Rhythm).
2018, released a second single to radio “Whole Lotta Laying Around” (Rural Rhythm).

Roberts, Danny

Posted on December 23, 2013October 7, 2020 by WR

DANNY ROBERTS

From Leitchfield, Kentucky. Lives in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Began playing guitar at age 13, mandolin a few years later.
1988, formed The New Tradition, a gospel group.
Has also worked with Ronnie Reno and the Reno Tradition, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time, the Marty Raybon Band, Special Consensus, Charlie Sizemore.
2000, went to work for Gibson Musical Instruments. He became head of the Gibson Mandolin Division and Plant Supervisor for Gibson (including the banjo and resophonic guitar divisions). He was also the Gibson Repair Supervisor.
2004, was a founding member of the Grascals. Toured with Dolly Parton.
2004, released first solo album Mandolin Orchard (Butler Music Group).
2014, released Nighthawk album (Mountain Home).
He formed his own instrument repair business “Just Off the Bench Stringed Instrument Repair.”

Roberts, Jaelee

Posted on December 7, 2019February 12, 2024 by WR

JAELEE ROBERTS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
She grew up around bluegrass music; her father is Danny Roberts (of the Grascals) and her mother is Andrea Roberts (of the Andrea Roberts Agency).
Began singing, performing and entering music competitions at age six.
Plays guitar, fiddle, mandolin and piano.
2018, joined the Rebecca Long Band.
2019, enrolled in the Music Business School at Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreesboro).
2019, released first single to radio “All My Tears” (Euphony).
2022, released first album Something You Didn’t Count On (Mountain Home).

Robinette, Tammy Jones

Posted on September 5, 2015February 9, 2020 by WR

TAMMY JONES ROBINETTE

From Middlesboro, Kentucky. She and her husband Jim currently live in Northeast Ohio in the Lake Erie region.
Grew up as part of a popular gospel group called The Jones Family which included Tammy and her three siblings, plus mom and dad. They recorded dozens of albums and had many of their songs become hits on gospel radio stations.
1999, began her solo career in gospel music and recorded several projects which established her as an award-winning Southern Gospel artist and songwriter.
2013, released her first bluegrass album “Let It Shine” (no label), produced by Mark Fain.
2015, released Tammy Jones Robinette & The Drive (Rural Rhythm), also produced by Mark Fain.

Robins, Butch

Posted on December 23, 2013November 19, 2018 by WR

BUTCH ROBINS

From Lebanon, Virginia. Lives in Pulaski, Virginia.
Real name: Joseph Calvin Robins.
1967, won banjo contest at Union Grove Festival. Shortly thereafter, worked briefly with Bill Monroe as a teenager.
1969-1971, served in the U.S. Army’s entertainment division, stationed in South Carolina.
1971, played banjo with Charlie Moore and his Dixie Partners.
1972, recorded and toured with Leon Russell.
1973-1974, played bass with the New Grass Revival.
1975-1977, played banjo with Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper.
1977, worked briefly with Jim and Jesse.
1977-1981, played banjo with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1978, released solo project “Fragments of My Imagicnation” (Rounder).
1982-1983, formed The Blue Grass Band with Alan O’Bryant, Blaine Sprouse and Ed Dye.
1983, quit performing and pursued a business career (real estate).
1989, returned to music on a part-time basis with a new version of The Blue Grass Band (including Dudley Connell, Larry Stephenson, Ronnie and Rickie Simpkins, others) to record several albums of bluegrass standards marketed primarily through info-mercials on TV. These recordings were the first for Hay Holler Records.
2003, wrote and published a book (What I Know About What I Know) chronicling his life in bluegrass music.
2007, performed with the World International Bluegrass Band in Japan, Australia and Europe.
2015, recorded a five-part video series called Butch Robins Presents: Blue Grass Music, its Origin and Development as a Unique and Creative Art Form.
2016, was inducted into the Bill Monroe Bluegrass Hall of Fame in Bean Blossom, Indiana.

Robins, Kim

Posted on December 23, 2013September 21, 2024 by WR

KIM ROBINS

From Bloomington, Indiana. Lives in Nashville, TN.
Began singing at an early age but postponed her music career for 40 years. Worked as a medical sales rep while raising her family.
She married banjo player Butch Robins who encouraged her to re-start her music career. They are no longer married.
She is a nurse when she is not performing music.
2013, released 40 Years Late album (no label) and began performing and touring with her own band called Forty Years Late.
2015, discontinued her band.
2017, released Raining in Baltimore album (Pinecastle).
2022, released Leave the Porch Light On album (Pinecastle).
2022, started her own record label Ram Cat Records.
2024, formed a new band called Tempest Rain.

Rock County

Posted on December 23, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

ROCK COUNTY

From various parts of Kentucky.
Formed in 2001 by Don Rigsby (formerly with the Lonesome River Band).
Members included Rigsby (mandolin), Glen Duncan (fiddle), Dale Vanderpool (banjo) Ray Craft (guitar) and Robin Smith (bass).
20o2, released album Rock County (Rebel).
2003, released album Rock Solid (Rebel).
2003, Vanderpool was replaced by Scott Vestal.
2004, broke up.

Rock Hearts

Posted on December 22, 2020March 11, 2023 by WR

ROCK HEARTS

From New England (Massachusetts/Rhode Island/Connecticut/New York).
Formed in 2013 by Alex McLeod (guitar), Billy Thibodeau (mandolin), Joe Deetz (banjo), Danny Musher (fiddle) and Rick Brodsky (bass). Austin Scelzo later replaced Musher on fiddle.
Deetz (banjo) previously has worked with Joe Val, John Herald and other New England bands. He also played banjo on the Sesame Street recording of the Garbage Man Blues.
McLeod (guitar) previously was a member of the group Northern Lights.
Thibodeau’s (mandolin) father was Sam Tidwell who was a pioneering New England bluegrass artist who performed with the Kennebec Valley Boys.
2020, released Starry Southern Nights album (no label), produced by Ned Luberecki.

Rockin’ Acoustic Circus

Posted on December 23, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

ROCKIN ACOUSTIC CIRCUS

From Tulsa, Oklahoma.
A band featuring five teen musicians and one adult who founded the band in 2005. Rick Morton. Morton is a fiddler and mandolin instructor who has performed with Brooks and Dunn and the Tractors. Other band members include Sterling Abernathy (mandolin), Eric Dysart (fiddle and banjo), Emma Hardin (cello), Zac Hardin (bass) and Carson Clemishire (banjo).
2010, released album Lonestar Lullabye (no label).
2012, following some extensive personnel changes (leaving only one original member, Sterling Abernathy), they adopted the name Belfry Fellows and moved to Nashville. The name comes from an Edgar Allen Poe story “The Devil in the Belfry” which has a fiddle playing “fellow” in it.

Roe Family Singers

Posted on April 21, 2018February 28, 2020 by WR

THE ROE FAMILY SINGERS

From Kirkwood Hollow, Minnesota.
Formed in 2005 by husband and wife duo Kim Roe (autoharp) and Quillan Roe (banjo/guitar). Other members of the group: Adam Wirtzfeld (musical saw); Dan Gaarder (guitar); Rich Rue (steel guitar); Ric Lee (fiddle); Rob Davis (jug); Kurt Froehlich (mandolin, kazoo).
They are a “good time, old time hillbilly band,” featuring traditional instruments. They won the title of “World’s Best Jug Band” at the 2010 and 2012 Battle of the Jug Bands in Duluth, Minnesota.
2017, Kim Roe won the clogging competition at the Old-Time Music & Ozark Heritage Festival held in West Plains, MO.
They perform weekly (Monday nights) at the 331 Club in Minneapolis.
2017, released Songs of the Mountains, Songs of the Plains (Pinecastle).

Rook, Tony

Posted on April 6, 2016April 5, 2022 by WR

TONY ROOK

From North Carolina. Currently lives in Minnesota.
Started playing rock music as a teenager, then turned to folk music. In his early 20’s had a folk duo called Riggs and Rook.
Learned to play banjo from Bobby Hicks.
In North Carolina, performed with the Eno Ramblers and also had a group called Rook and Wood, releasing one album “Labor of Love” (no label).
2006, moved to Minnesota and joined Dick Kimmel & Co, playing guitar.
2016, released solo project “The Road Back Home” (no label).
2022, released “Matters of the Heart” album (NC Records) with his Tony Rook Band.

Rosenberg, Ivan

Posted on December 23, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

IVAN ROSENBERG

From Portland, Oregon.
A Dobro™ (resophonic guitar) player who has worked with Chris Stuart and Backcountry, Evie Laden, Chris Jones and others.
He also plays clawhammer banjo.
2001, released first solo project The Lost Coast (no label).
2002, released “Back to the Pasture: Mighty Lonesome Bluegrass” album.
2006, released “Clawhammer and Dobro™ album.
2009, won an IBMA Award for co-writing Song of the Year “Don’t Throw Mama’s Flowers Away” (with Chris Stuart)
2010, released an album with banjo player Chris Coole Farewell Trion (no label).
2010, performed on the Jerry Douglas-produced album Southern Filibuster: a Tribute to Tut Taylor (E1Entertainment).
2011, recorded an album with the Toronto-based Foggy Hogtown Boys The Hogtown Sessions (no label).
2013, released Oldies & Old Time album (no label).

Rosenthal, Phil

Posted on December 23, 2013May 7, 2020 by WR

PHIL ROSENTHAL

From Guilford, Connecticut.
1970-75, played with a New England band called Apple Country.
1976-77, had a band with his wife Beth called “Old Dog.” This group recorded an album with Mike Auldridge “Mike Auldridge and Old Dog” (Flying Fish).
1977-1986, played guitar and sang lead with the Seldom Scene.
1983, released first solo project Matter of Time (Sierra).
Plays all the bluegrass instruments (guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, bass).
A prolific songwriter. His songs have been recorded by Johnny Cash, Bill Monroe, the Osborne Brothers and the Seldom Scene.
He is the owner of American Melody Records, a label specializing in traditional folk music for children. He is producer, composer, artist and distributor of such albums as:
1994, he was named the official State Troubadour of Connecticut.
2000, formed a group called Bluegrass Reunion.

Ross, Joe

Posted on December 23, 2013January 29, 2022 by WR

JOE ROSS (AND COLD THUNDER)

From Roseburg, Oregon. He was born in Virginia but grew up in Japan and heard his first bluegrass there on the Far East Network.
A multi-instrumentalist who writes, records and performs sea songs, Scottish, Celtic and children’s music, all with a bluegrass twist.
His band “Cold Thunder” gets its name from a natural phenomenon from Ozark folklore in which frozen lakes and creeks slowly expand, forcing the earth to move and groan with a thundering roar.
He promoted an Oregon bluegrass festival called The Myrtle Creek Bluegrass and Arts Festival, or “Myrtlegrass.”
Ross is a well-known writer in bluegrass circles and a frequent contributor to Bluegrass Unlimited magazine.
1998, released “The Harper’s Reverie: Irish Music of Turlough O’Carolan” (Zephyr).
2000, released “The Crazy Zoo: An Animal Songfest” of bluegrass & folk for kids “of all ages” (Zephyr)
2006, released Festival Time Again album (Zephr).
2007, released The Spirit of St. Louis album (Zephr).
2008, released an album entitled Moonglow (Zephr) with classic jazz and swing favorites.
2008, released Bluegrass Alphabet album (no label).
Since 1990 has been a regular writer and reviewer for The Roots Music Report (online).
Bands he performs (or has performed) with: The Celtic Tradition, The HotQua String Band, The Umpqua Valley Bluegrass Band, The Ceili Boys, Irish Creme, Alamojo Western Swing Band, Zephyr Duo, & The Keynotes Polka Band.
His solo shows include “Sea Breeze” (world music), “The Beatless” (music of the Beatles), “Music of the Pioneers” (early folk music), and “Folk Tales of Old Japan” (storytelling).
Since 2010 has played mandolin with guitarist Jerry Ashford in a duo/trio called “The Sunny Sky Boys” and Gypsyjazz with guitarist Jesse Scriven.

Rossbach, John

Posted on December 23, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

JOHN ROSSBACH (AND CHESTNUT GROVE)

From Elkins, West Virginia. Has also lived in Syracuse, New York.
1987, formed his band Chestnut Grove. They recorded and released two albums.
Also performs with Mac Benford’s Woodshed All-Stars.
1996, released solo project Never Was Plugged (Alcazar).

Rothman, Sandy

Posted on December 23, 2013January 2, 2019 by WR

SANDY ROTHMAN

From Berkeley, California (born in Oakland).
A banjo, guitar and Dobro™ player who was a close friend of the late Jerry Garcia (of Grateful Dead fame) and has performed in Garcia’s acoustic band. He also produced Jerry’s album “Almost Acoustic.”
1964, worked briefly with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, playing banjo.
Early 1970’s, played banjo for Earl Taylor and the Stoney Mountain Boys.
Has also worked with Clarence White, Don Stover, Red Allen, Larry Sparks, New Riders of the Purple Sage and Country Joe McDonald.
1991, recorded an album of Bluegrass Guitar Duets (Sierra) with Steve Pottier, a long-time Bay-area guitarist who at the time was playing bass with High Country.
1993, released The Old Road to Home album (Tone Bar).

Route 3

Posted on January 19, 2023May 4, 2024 by WR

ROUTE 3

From Purdy, Missouri.
Formed in 2018 by Jason Jordan (guitar), Doug Clifton (bass), Gaylon Harper (banjo) and Roy Bond (mandolin).
They chose their name after discovering that three of the four band members had all lived on Rural Route 3, a highway running north-south through central Missouri, at one time or another.
2020, released self-titled album (7 Flat Records)
2020, was named the Bluegrass Artist of the Year at the Arkansas Country Music Awards.
2022, released Losing Time album (Pinecastle).
2023, Janice Martin Houk (banjo) joined the group, as did Greg Potter (mandolin), replacing both Harper and Bond.

Rowan, Peter

Posted on December 22, 2013September 9, 2024 by WR

PETER ROWAN

From Wayland, Massachusetts.
Performs a variety of musical styles including bluegrass, rock, Tex-Mex, Irish, country, rockabilly, folk and reggae.
Began performing in junior high school with a rockabilly group called the Cupids, playing mostly Buddy Holly material.
1963, began his professional career with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1967, formed a rock group with David Grisman called Earth Opera. Toured with The Doors, other bands.
1969, joined a California country-rock group called Sea Train.
1973, performed with Old and In the Way with Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead and David Nelson of New Riders of the Purple Sage.
1974, worked with Richard Greene, Bill Keith, Clarence White and David Grisman in Muleskinner.
1975-1978, performed with his brothers Chris and Lorin as the Rowan Brothers. Recorded three albums including Tree On A Hill (Asylum). They reunited in 1992 for several shows.
1978, released Peter Rowan album (Flying Fish).
1978, formed two Tex-Mex groups: The Green Grass Gringos and the Mexican Air Force.
1982, released The Walls Of Time album (Sugar Hill). Band included Ricky Skaggs, Alan O’Bryant, Eddie Adcock, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, others.
1983, formed the Wild Stallions in Nashville.
1984, formed The Free Mexican Air Force which at times included Tony Rice on guitar.
1988, released New Moon Rising album with the Nashville Bluegrass Band (Sugar Hill).
1990, released Dust Bowl Children album (Sugar Hill).
1990, released The First Whipporwill album (Sugar Hill). Band included Bill Keith, Richard Greene, Sam Bush, Alan O’Bryant, Buddy Spicher.
1991, released All On A Rising Day album (Sugar Hill).
1995, released With The Red Hot Pickers album (Sugar Hill). Band included Tony Trischka, Richard Greene, Andy Statman, Roger Mason.
1996, released Bluegrass Boy album (Sugar Hill). Band included Mike Munford, Charles Sawtelle, Laurie Lewis, Richard Greene, Roy Huskey Jr., Buell Neidlinger.
1996, released Yonder album with Jerry Douglas (Sugar Hill).
2004, released You Were There For Me album with Tony Rice (Rounder).
2006, formed The Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Quartet. Original group included Sharon Gilchrist and Bryn Davies (Bright). Mike Bub and Rickie Simpkins also played with this band.
2007, released Quartet album (Rounder) featuring the Peter Rowan and Tony Rice Quartet.
2007, formed The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band with Keith Little and Jody Stecher.
Hobby: studying and painting Asian art. He is a devotee of Tibetan Buddhism.
2010, released Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band: Legacy album (Compass).
2013, released The Old School album (Compass) with guests Del McCoury, Bobby Osborne, Jesse McReynolds, others.
2018, had to cancel several months of touring to recover from exhaustion.
2018, released Carter Stanley’s Eyes album (Rebel).
Recent band configurations: the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, Peter Rowan’s Big Twang Theory (rockabilly), Peter Rowan’s Twang and Groove (Rhythm and Blues), Peter Rowan and Crucial Reggae (Reggae) and The Free Mexican Air Force (Tex Mex).

Roxboro Connection

Posted on June 29, 2023June 30, 2023 by WR

ROXBORO CONNECTION

From Roxboro, North Carolina.
Formed in 2021 by Ricky Stroud (mandolin), Cliff Waddell (guitar), Ronald Smith (banjo), David Nance (Dobro™) and Adam Poindexter (bass). Poindexter was replaced by Bailey Moore (bass).
Nance, Waddell and Stroud are former members of the Hagars Mountain Boys, also from Roxboro.
Waddell is also a solo artist and has recorded several albums of Gospel music under his own name.
Smith played banjo for several years with the Lost and Found.
Nance was a member of Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys for more than 15 years (until Jimmy’s passing in 2005).
Moore is the nephew of the late Jason Moore (bassist with Sideline and other bands).
2023, released Making the Connection album (Big Ricky’s Records).

Roys, The

Posted on December 22, 2013August 16, 2023 by WR

THE ROYS

From Fitchburg, Massachusetts and also lived in Coal Branch, New Brunswick, Canada. Now live in Nashville.
A brother/sister duo featuring Lee and Elaine Roy.
2009, 2010, won Inspirational Country Music (ICM) Award for Duo of the Year.
2010, recorded their first bluegrass album called “Right Back at You.” Subsequently signed with Rural Rhythm Records.
2011, signed with ValCom Studios to produce their own 30-minute weekly variety TV show “Roots and Music with the Roys.”
2011, released Lonesome Whistle album (Rural Rhythm).
2012, released New Day Dawning album (Rural Rhythm).
2012, won ICM Award for Song of the Year, “I Wonder What God’s Thinking.”
2013, released Gypsy Runaway Train album (Rural Rhythm).
2014, released The View album (Rural Rhythm).
2014, won their 4th ICM Award for Bluegrass Artist of the Year (also won in 2011, 2012, and 2013).
2023, after a long hiatus, Elaine Roy signed with Grace Records Nashville for a solo project. Lee has been driving tour buses.

Rozum, Tom

Posted on December 22, 2013May 16, 2020 by WR

TOM ROZUM

From Waterbury, Connecticut.
Best known as the singing partner of Laurie Lewis. He plays a rare 1924 Gibson Lloyd Loar F-5 mandolin.
1974, played with The Summerdog Experience and Mariachi Ensemble in Tucson, Arizona.
1978), played with Geoff Stelling and Hard Times and The Rhythm Rascals in San Diego, California.
1982) played with Flying South in Flagstaff, Arizona.
1986, joined Laurie Lewis and Grant Street.
1994, was seriously injured in an auto accident with Laurie Lewis while on tour. Doctors weren’t sure he would ever walk again, but he recovered completely.
1996, his duet album with Laurie Lewis The Oak and the Laurel (Rounder) was nominated for a Grammy Award.
He is also an artist (graphic design and illustration) and has a degree in biology.
1998, released a solo project Jubilee (Dog Boy).

Run Boy Run

Posted on October 12, 2016July 19, 2018 by WR

RUN BOY RUN

From Tucson, Arizona.
Band members include brother and sister Matt Rolland (fiddle, guitar) and Grace Rolland (cello, vocals) and sisters Bekah Sandoval Rolland (fiddle, vocals) and Jen Sandoval (mandolin, vocals). When touring they also have a fifth member, playing bass.
2009, won the Pickin’ In The Pines band competition.
2011, won the Telluride Bluegrass Festival band competition.
2013, appeared on “A Prairie Home Companion” with Garrison Keillor (twice).
2013, released “So Sang the Whippoorwill” album (no label).
2014, released Something to Someone album (Sky Island).
2016, released “I Would Fly” album (Sky Island).

Run C&W

Posted on December 22, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

RUN C&W

From Nashville.
A comedy act (1992-1995) specializing in bluegrass adaptations of Motown and classic rock songs.
The brainchild of Bernie Leadon, founding member of The Eagles.
Name is a take-off on the name of the popular rap group, Run DMC.
According to the story line of their first album (1993), Run C&W is a band featuring The Burns Brothers, a family of bluegrass pickers who migrated from the backwoods of Kentucky to Detroit, Michigan, where they learned to play “that good old soul music—the way God intended for it to be played—bluegrass style.”
First gained recognition when they played at the CMA’s Fan Fair in Nashville and did a spoof of Billy Ray Cyrus’ “Achy Breaky Heart” called “Itchy Twitchy Spot.” What started out as a joke turned into a full-fledged album project.
Members of Run C&W: Rug Burns is Russell Smith (formerly with the Amazing Rhythm Aces.) Crashen Burns is Bernie Leadon (formerly with the Eagles.) G.W. “Wash” Burns is Vince Melamed (a.k.a. Dan Fogelberg), and Side Burns is Jim Photoglo (a Nashville songwriter). Their fictional father was known as Dad Burns.
1993, released Into The Twangy-First Century album (MCA).
1994, released Row Vs. Wade album (MCA).

Runkle, Bill (and Smith Hollow)

Posted on December 15, 2015 by WR

BILL RUNKLE & SMITH HOLLOW

From Brogue, Pennsylvania.
A banjo player who worked with Del McCoury’s Dixie Pals from 1969-1977. He played banjo on McCoury’s classic “High on a Mountain” LP (Rounder) in 1973.
2015, (at age 75) released “Lonely Tonight” album (Patuxent) with his band Smith Hollow.

Quiz: Are there any “Q’s” in Bluegrass?

Posted on December 22, 2013January 13, 2014 by WR

NO Q IN BLUEGRASS?

So far, no bluegrass bands or artists have made the “Q” category. Maybe the closest would be Rhonda Vincent who sometimes bills herself as the “Queen of Bluegrass.” If your band has a “Q” name (Quiet Grass, Quickstep Reunion, the Quaalude Mountain Boys, etc.), you could be the sole owner of this category! Let me know if you are up to the challenge.

Phillips, Lewis

Posted on December 22, 2013July 27, 2020 by WR

LEWIS PHILLIPS

From Lincolnton, Georgia.
Son of Earl and Janis Phillips (Janis was a member of the gospel singing group, The Lewis Family,).
1972, at age two began touring with the Lewis Family.
At age six, played banjo on a Carol Burnett CBS-TV special.
2001, released a solo album Empty Fields (Daywind).
2010, after the Lewis Family disbanded, he began performing in a new band called The Lewis Tradition with his mother Janis Lewis Phillips, his cousin Travis Lewis, son of the late Wallace Lewis, and Travis’ oldest son, Jameson.

Phillips, Todd

Posted on December 22, 2013December 22, 2013 by WR

TODD PHILLIPS

From the San Francisco Bay area (born in San Jose). Now lives in Nashville.
One of the top bass players in bluegrass music. He has been playing since age 11.
1975, was an original member (with Tony Rice) of the David Grisman Quintet.
1980, was an original member of the Tony Rice Unit.
Has also worked with The Good Old Persons, Laurie Lewis, Psychograss and The Bluegrass Album Band.
1996, produced the Grammy winning album “True Life Blues: The Songs of Bill Monroe,” which also won the 1997 IBMA award for Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year.
Is also a luthier, photographer and a graphic artist.
1998, joined New Grange with Darol Anger, Mike Marshall, Tim O’Brien and Alison Brown. Also worked with Laurie Lewis and her Bluegrass Pals.
2000, formed a trio with Matt Flinner and David Grier (Phillips, Grier and Flinner).
2008, moved to Nashville. Toured for two years with Joan Baez. Also worked with Psychograss, Russ Barenberg, the Bluegrass Album Band, others.
2014, joined the Claire Lynch Band.

Phoenix

Posted on December 22, 2013March 7, 2024 by WR

PHOENIX

From Charlottesville, Virginia.
Formed in 2000.
Members: David Coffey (guitar), Eddie King (mandolin), Randy Driskill (banjo), Jim Green (bass).
2001, released “Rising from the Ashes” album.
2002, released “Blue Ridge Frame of Mind” album.
2003, released “A Place Called Home” album.
2005, released “His Amazing Love” album.
2006, released “Tailor Made” album.
2010, disbanded. Coffey formed a gospel group called David Coffey and Gospel Blend. He is also a pastor.

Piatt, Cory

Posted on December 22, 2013December 23, 2015 by WR

CORY PIATT

From Winston-Salem, NC. Currently lives in Nashville.
Began playing the mandolin at age 7 performing at contests and festivals with his family group, The Piatt Family.
2009, joined the Texas-based gospel group Appointed.
2011, joined the Kenny and Amanda Smith band.
2012, released first solo project Daydreams (Patuxent).
2014, joined Mountain Faith.

Pikelny, Noam

Posted on December 22, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

NOAM PIKELNY

From Champaign, Illinois.
A banjo player who was inspired as a teen by Bela Fleck.
2002, played in a college jam band called Waffle Hoss, also worked with Czech guitarist Slavek Hanslik,
2003, joined Leftover Salmon.
2004, joined the John Cowan Band.
2004, released first solo project In the Maze (Compass).
2006, joined The Punch Brothers.
2010, won the first annual Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass ($50,000). This was not a competition but a surprise award given by Martin and selected by a panel of judges including Earl Scruggs, Pete Wernick, Tony Trischka, Anne Stringfield, Alison Brown, Neil V. Rosenberg, Béla Fleck and Martin himself.
2011, released Beat The Devil and Carry A Rail album (Compass).
2013, released Noam Pikelny Plays Kenny Baker Plays Bill Monroe album (Compass) featuring Pikelny’s arrangements for banjo of fiddle tunes recorded on the landmark album Kenny Baker Plays Bill Monroe.
2013, delivered keynote address at the IBMA World of Bluegrass in Raleigh, NC.
2014, won IBMA Awards for Banjo Player of the Year and Instrumental Album of the Year for Noam Pikelny Plays Kenny Baker Plays Bill Monroe).
2016, toured as a solo artist (during time off with the Punch Brothers).
2017, won his second IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year (also won in 2014).

Pine Mountain Railroad

Posted on December 22, 2013July 14, 2021 by WR

PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1998 by guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Jimbo Whaley and banjo player Kipper Stitt. Other band members have included Bill McBee, Clint Damon, Roscoe Morgan, Michael Fagan, Matt DeSpain, Matthew Flake, Eli Johnson, Mark Cable, Elmer Burchett, Jerry Butler, Jerry Cole, Dale Perry, Dale Thomas and Danny Barnes.
2001, signed a sponsorship deal making them the official bluegrass band of Odom’s Tennessee Pride Country Sausage. They were heard weekly on the Grand Ole Opry singing the product’s theme song.
Performed regularly at Dollywood and other venues around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, working for the department of tourism there.
2003, released Old Radio album (CMH Records).
2006, mandolinist Cody Shuler purchased the band name and changed it to Cody Shuler and Pine Mountain Railroad.
2008, released Pickin’, Praisin’ & Singin’ album (Rural Rhythm Records.)
2010, released “Cody Shuler and Pine Mountain Railroad” (Steeltown Records.)
2012, released Heartache & Hope album (no label)
2015, Shuler released solo project Cody Shuler (Rural Rhythm).
2015, former members Jerry Butler and Kipper Stitt formed their own band called Kip and Jerry’s Rocky Road.

Pinnacle Boys, The

Posted on December 22, 2013November 28, 2018 by WR

THE PINNACLE BOYS

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
A band featuring Bud Brewster (guitar), Larry Mathis (banjo), Jim Smith (mandolin), Randall Collins (fiddle), Jerry Moore (fiddle) and Ray Rose (bass).
Brewster and his brother Willie previously worked together as The Brewster Brothers. They toured for ten years with Carl Story. Brewster also played banjo with Story’s Rambling Mountaineers for several years.
1974, released “Take a Look and Listen” album (Atteiram).
1075, released “The Pinnacle Boys” album (Rounder).
1975, released “The Award-winning Pinnacle Boys” album (Atteiram).
1977, released “I See A Bridge” album (Atteiram).
1978, released “West Bound and Down” album (CMH).
1980, released “High Lonesome Bluegrass” album (CMH).
1997, Brewster, Mathis and Smith reunited to form a new group called The Knoxville Bluegrass Band.

Pitney, Mo

Posted on June 29, 2018August 14, 2024 by WR

MO PITNEY

From Cherry Valley, Illinois. Lives in Nashville.
Real name: Morgan Daniel Pitney.
As a teenager, he played in a bluegrass band with his brother and a friend. Keith Whitley was a hero.
2014, at age 21 began his professional career in country music as a singer and guitarist. Signed with Curb Records, moved to Nashville and had his first single released “Country” co-written by Pitney and Bill Anderson.
2016, married Emily Bankester (of the Bankesters).
2016, released Behind This Guitar album (Curb).
2020, released Ain’t Looking Back (Curb). This album included “Old Home Place” which featured his “all star band” with J.D. Crowe, Aubrey Haynie, Marty Stuart, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Barry Bales, Jon Randall and others. The single and video was released again in 2023.
2024, began performing as a duo with Johnny Meyer as “Pitney Meyer.”

Plate Scrapers, The

Posted on June 17, 2023 by WR

THE PLATE SCRAPERS

From Virginia and Western Maryland.
Formed in 2014 by Derek Kretzer (banjo), Andrew Jordan (guitar), Brett Kretzer (mandolin), Jody Mosser (dobro, lap steel), and Kevin Johnson (bass). Robbie Mann (fiddle) is also a member of the band.
2019, they won the Podunk Bluegrass Telefunken Band Contest.
2020, released Destination Horizon album (no label).

Platt, Woody

Posted on September 25, 2024September 25, 2024 by WR

WOODY PLATT

From Western North Carolina.
1998-2022, played guitar and sang lead vocals for the Steep Canyon Rangers. As a member of that group, he toured with Steve Martin, won several Grammy awards and was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.
He is also an avid fly fisherman, conservationist and realtor.
2024, released first solo project Far Away with You (Compass).

Playing On The Planet

Posted on October 23, 2013November 20, 2020 by LJ

PLAYING ON THE PLANET

From Ducktown, Tennessee.
Formed in 2003 under the name Ducktown Station.
Their music is described as “Cosmic Rockin’ Boogie Grass.”
Their original music has been featured on NBC Sports, PBS “Roadtrip Nation” , FOX Sports, Versus Television, and several movie soundtracks.
Members include Lisa Jacobi (fiddle, mandolin, flat-pick guitar, bass), Pete Dasher (resonator guitar), JRod (Jarrod) Payne (banjo, guitar) and Denny Mixon (bass, guitar).
2005, released first album “Tennessee Twister” produced by Harry Stinson.
2006 changed their band name to Steel String Session.
2009 released their second album “Ocoee Road” produced by Harry Stinson.
2012 at the suggestion of Sam Bush, changed band name to Playing On The Planet.
2014, released third album “Bangor Bound“produced by Lisa Jacobi and Ben Surratt.

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys

Posted on January 4, 2016October 8, 2024 by WR

PO’ RAMBLIN’ BOYS

From Sevierville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2014 by C.J. Lewandowski (mandolin), Josh Rinkel (guitar), Jereme Brown (banjo) and Jasper Lorentzen (bass).
Lewandowski (mandolin) is originally from Missouri. He previously worked with David Davis, and with Karl Shifflett and the Big Country Show.
Rinkel (guitar) is originally from Louisville, Kentucky. He formerly worked with Tommy Brown and the County Line Grass (12 years), playing banjo and guitar.
Jereme Brown (banjo) is the son of Tommy Brown and still plays lead guitar with Tommy Brown and the County Line Grass.
They worked 4 months with James King as his backup band.
They are endorsed by Pointer Brand overalls and Anchors hair pomade.
The band had a dog named Dip Stick.
Every band member has an antique car, mainly Cadillacs.
2016, released first album Back to the Mountains (Randm).
2019, released God’s Love is So Divine album (Sound Biscuit).
2018, signed with Rounder Records, Rainmaker Management and Crossover Touring, who manage many of the elite acts in bluegrass music.
2018, won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2019, made first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry (October 1).
2019, released Toil, Tears and Trouble album (Rounder).
2020, fiddler Laura Orshaw became a full-time member of the band.
2024, released Wanderers Like Me album (Smithsonian Folkways).
2024, guitarist Rinkel departed and was replaced by John Gooding.

Poindexter, Frank

Posted on December 22, 2013November 13, 2024 by WR

FRANK POINDEXTER

From Monroe, North Carolina.
A Dobro™ player, uncle to the Rice Brothers (Tony, Larry, Wyatt and Ron.)
Has toured and recorded with the Larry Rice Band.
Has also toured and recorded with Dickie Betts of the Allman Brothers Band.
Inventor of the “Dex Belt”– a belt for musicians with a leather buckle to prevent scratching of instruments.
2011, joined Deeper Shade of Blue.
2024, announced his retirement from his musical career.

Porter, Thomas

Posted on December 21, 2013 by WR

THOMAS PORTER

From Phoenix, Arizona
Plays guitar and mandolin.
A man of many talents, he is also a licensed massage therapist, a web designer, graphic artist, illustrator, videographer and gardener/farmer.
2002, joined Just-N-Time, a Phoenix bluegrass band.
2005, joined the Copper River Band
His song “Teddy Bear Revival” was recorded by Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
2009, recorded solo project (self-titled) featuring guests Ron Block, Charlie Cushman, Sierra Hill, Adam Steffey, others.
2011, released “116 Trolley Days” album.

Prairie Wildfire (Sage and Prairie Wildfire)

Posted on January 26, 2024 by WR

PRAIRIE WILDFIRE (SAGE AND PRAIRIE WILDFIRE)

From Buffalo, Wyoming.
Formed in 2015 by Morgan Blaney (bass), Sage Palser (mandolin) and Tessa Taylor (banjo, guitar).
2023, released Watcha Gonna Do With a Cowboy album (Turnberry).
2023, Palser recorded a single “What Crosses Your Mind,” a duet with Danny Paisley (Pinecastle).
2024, Taylor and Blaney left the band to go back to school and pursue other musical interests. Palser re-formed the band under her own name Sage and Prairie Wildfire.

Prater, Kevin

Posted on February 27, 2014February 23, 2018 by WR

THE KEVIN PRATER BAND

From Belcher, Kentucky.
Formed in 2009 by Kevin Prater (mandolin) and Tom Timberlake (banjo).
Prater formerly worked with the James King Band, Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain, and Redwing.
Other band members: Danny Stiltner (bass), Clyde Marshall (guitar) and Albon Clevenger (fiddle).
2017, released All I Ever Wanted album (Patuxent).

Prewitt, Michael

Posted on November 13, 2024 by WR

MICHAEL PREWITT

From Williamsburg, Kentucky.
A vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, specializing in mandolin.
2021-2024, played mandolin with Special Consensus.
2024, released two solo projects, The Peerless Mountain Sessions and Something He Can Handle (Common Loon)

Price, Bill

Posted on December 21, 2013December 21, 2013 by WR

BILL PRICE

From Monroe, North Carolina. He owned a farm and studio there called “Bluegrass Hill.”
Began musical career in 1954.
Recorded two albums for RCA, produced by Chet Atkins. He and his band “The Country Pardners” were the first bluegrass artists to record in what was then called “high fidelity.”
Was a member of Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys in the 1950’s. Also worked with Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
1960’s, made several guest appearances on the Grand Ole Opry with his wife Betty. Bill Monroe saw Price’s show in 1965 and when he saw that Price had added electric guitars and drums to his band, Monroe stopped speaking to him. It took almost 25 years (1989) to reconcile. In 1991, they performed together once again.
Due to personal tragedy (his wife and two children died) he left the music business for several years.
1984, remarried and resumed his musical career.
Died in September of 2000.

Price, James

Posted on December 21, 2013May 23, 2022 by WR

JAMES PRICE

From Uneeda, West Virginia. Lives in Parkersburg, WV.
Began pro career as fiddler with the Goins Brothers Band.
1994, released “The Old Mountaineer” album on Hay Holler Records.
1995-2003, was a member of Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys.
1998, released “Southern Flavor” album on Freeland Records.
2003, released “Fiddlin’ the Old Time Way” on Rebel Records.
After leaving Stanley’s band, he formed a bluegrass band called James Price and Kentucky Reign and a country band called James Price and Native Country.
2022, died at the age of 57.

Price Sisters, The

Posted on July 31, 2016September 5, 2018 by WR

THE PRICE SISTERS

From Sardis (Monroe County), Ohio.
A duo featuring twin sisters Lauren Price (mandolin) and Leanna Price (fiddle).
They began singing at the age of 3 with their family band The Price Family. They formed The Price Sisters in 2012 at age 16.
Lauren is the older twin by five minutes.
Leanna does most of the lead singing.
Lauren took mandolin lessons from Mike Compton. Leanna took fiddle lessons from Byron Berline.
2013, released Bluegrass Backroads album (no label).
2016, released self titled album on Rebel Records.
2018 Lauren married Scott Napier (of the Lost and Found). They both play mandolin.

Primitive Quartet, The

Posted on September 24, 2021March 17, 2023 by WR

THE PRIMITIVE QUARTET

From Candler, North Carolina.
They perform bluegrass and Southern gospel music in churches and other gospel-music venues.
Formed in 1973 by two sets of brothers: Reagan and Larry Riddle, and Furman and Norman Wilson. They discovered their ability to harmonize and make music together while on a fishing trip. The original group was called the Riddle-Wilson Quartet.
1976, began performing full-time. Furman Wilson was replaced by Mike Riddle, brother of Reagan and Larry. Changed their name to the Primitive Quartet.
1986, added new member Randy Fox.
2014, Norman Wilson passed away and was replaced by Jeff Tolbert.
They have recorded more than thirty albums on labels such as Pisgah and Mountain Heritage.
2021, released Through the Years, Volumes 1 and Through the Years, Volume 2 (Mountain Home), a compilation from the group’s past 30 years of recordings.
2023, released Stay Their Arms album (Mountain Home), their last before disbanding.

Pruett, Marc

Posted on December 21, 2013January 26, 2024 by WR

MARC PRUETT

From Haywood County, North Carolina.
1972-74, worked with James Monroe.
Worked at a music store in Asheville, NC teaching banjo for many years, working dates with Jimmy Martin, The Whites, Billy Edd Wheeler, many others.
1980, formed the Marc Pruett Band and released first self-titled album
1982, released “Streamlined Cannonball” album.
1982, released Center Stage album (Marandee).
1997, played banjo on Ricky Skaggs’ Grammy-winning “Bluegrass Rules” album.
1998-1999, played with Rock Springs Reunion, a gospel group. Released one self-titled album for Mountain Home Records.
2007, was a founding member of Balsam Range.
2010, was awarded an honorary doctorate from Western Carolina University for his accomplishments as a musician.
2021, fell from the stage at a Balsam Range show, breaking his wrist, arm and elbow. After a few weeks of recovery he was back performing again.

Punch Brothers, The

Posted on December 21, 2013June 7, 2023 by WR

THE PUNCH BROTHERS

From Nashville, relocated to New York City in 2008.
Formed in 2007 by mandolinist Chris Thile (formerly of Nickel Creek), enlisting the musicians from his solo project “How to Grow a Woman from the Ground.”
Original members: Thile, Chris Eldredge (guitar), Noam Pikelny (banjo), Greg Garrison, (bass) and Gabe Witcher (fiddle).
Band name comes from a Mark Twain description of a sign in a subway station instructing conductors to: “Punch brothers! Punch with care! Punch in the presence of the passenjare.” (Conductors punched subway tickets at the beginning of the ride.)
2008, released first album Punch (Nonesuch).
2008, bassist Greg Garrison left the band; replaced by Paul Kowert (formerly with the Mike Marshall Trio).
2010, toured with Steve Martin.
2010, recorded with Dierks Bentley on his Up on the Ridge album (Capitol).
2010, released Antifogmatic album (Nonesuch).
2010, appeared on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
2011, toured with Paul Simon.
2012, released Who’s Feeling Young Now? album (Nonesuch).
2012, released Ahoy! album (Nonesuch).
2015, released The Phosphorescent Blues album (Nonesuch).
2018, released All Ashore album (Nonesuch).
2019, won the Grammy Award for Best Folk Album for All Ashore (Nonesuch).
2023, Gabe Witcher (fiddle) left the band and was replaced by Brittany Haas.

Purcell, Liam (and Cane Mill Road)

Posted on April 5, 2024 by WR

LIAM PURCELL (See CANE MILL ROAD)

Psychograss

Posted on December 21, 2013December 23, 2015 by WR

PSYCHOGRASS

A project band featuring Darol Anger (fiddle), David Grier (guitar), Mike Marshall (mandolin), Todd Phillips (bass), and Tony Trischka (banjo).
1993, released Psychograss album (Windham Hill).
1996, released Like Minds album (Sugar Hill).
2005, released Now Hear This album (Adventure Music).

Old and In the Way

Posted on December 21, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

OLD AND IN THE WAY

From San Francisco, California.
Formed in 1973 featuring featuring Jerry Garcia (of the Grateful Dead) on banjo, David Grisman on mandolin, Peter Rowan on guitar, Vassar Clements on fiddle, and John Kahn on bass.
They made several appearances over the course of about a year, playing venues like Paul’s Saloon and The Boarding House in San Francisco.
1975, a live recording of the band was released (Old & In the Way) and became one of the biggest-selling bluegrass albums of all time.
According to Grisman, the group never really got very tight because “Garcia hated to practice.”
1996, re-united for a concert at the Telluride Music Festival with Herb Pederson filling in for Jerry Garcia.
2002, the new version of the group released an album called Old & In the Gray (Arista).

Old Crow Medicine Show

Posted on December 21, 2013February 10, 2015 by WR

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW

Began in Ithica, New York.
1998, began as buskers (street musicians) playing “pre-war jug band music.” The busked their way west across Canada and then back east to Boone, North Carolina.
Founding members of the band: Ketch Sekor (fiddle, banjo, harmonica), Critter Fuqua (banjo, guitar, Dobro™), Kevin Hayes (Guitjo), Ben Gould (bass), Willie Watson (guitar, banjo, fiddle).
They are known by their fans as simply Old Crow.
While performing on a street corner in Boone, NC, they were heard by Doc Watson and invited to play Merlefest.
2000, moved to Nashville and busked and were invited to play at the Grand Ole Opry. Eventually they were hired to entertain Grand Ole Opry audiences between shows. They became members of the Opry in 2013.
2001, first tour, opening for Del McCoury.
2003, performed on a float for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade (New York).
2004, David Rawlings produced their first album O.C.M.S. (Nettwerk Records). This album included the song “Wagon Wheel” (coauthored by Sekor and Bob Dylan) which went gold in 2011 and platinum (selling over a million copies) in 2013. This song has subsequently been covered by Darius Rucker and other country, bluegrass and folk groups.
2011, the band went on hiatus and disbanded.
2012, reunited after founding member Fuqua and Watson returned. Released Carry Me Back album (ATO Records).
2013, became members of the Grand Ole Opry.
2014, released Remedy album (ATO Records).
2015, won the Grammy Award for Best Folk Album (for “Remedy” album).

Old Growth Quartet

Posted on June 29, 2018June 22, 2023 by WR

OLD GROWTH QUARTET

From the Pacific Northwest (Seattle, Washington and Sisters, Oregon).
Formed in 2017 by Dale Adkins (guitar, banjo, mandolin), Paul Elliott (fiddle), Don Share (guitar), and Joseph Wilmhoff (bass).
Adkins is a virtuoso guitarist who formerly worked with the Kate McKenzie band, and has also worked with Dan Crary, Frontline and other Northwest bands.
Elliott is a well known fiddler who has worked with The Good Old Persons, John Reischman, Michelle Shocked, Alison Brown, Buell Neidlinger, and others.
2018, released first album Right Smack in the Middle of Town (Laurel Inn).

Old Salt Union

Posted on July 17, 2017October 6, 2022 by WR

OLD SALT UNION

From Belleville, IL (a suburb of St. Louis, MO).
Formed in 2012 by Ryan Murphey (banjo) and Dustin Eiskant (guitar). Other members: Justin Wallace (mandolin), John Brighton (fiddle), Jesse Farrar (bass). Eiskant was later replaced by guitarist Rob Kindle.
Banjo player Murphey is also a horticulturist. Farrar is a hip-hop producer and also played bass on a national tour of the Four Freshman.
2015, won the FreshGrass Band competition (North Adams, Massachusetts).
2016, signed with Compass Records.
2017, released self-titled album (Compass).
2019, released Where the Dogs Don’t Bite album (Compass).

Old School Freight Train

Posted on December 21, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

OLD SCHOOL FREIGHT TRAIN

From Richmond, Virginia.
Formed in 2001 at the College of William and Mary (Williamsburg).
Played a mix of bluegrass, jazz, Americana and latin music.
2001, placed second at the band contest in Telluride.
2002, released Old School Freight Train album (Courthouse).
2005, 2006, backed David Grisman on tour.
Original members include Pete Frostic (mandolin), Jesse Harper (guitar), Ben Krakauer (banjo), Darrell Muller (bass), Ann Marie Simpson (fiddle).
2007, released Live in Ashland album (no label).
2007, appeared at the Stagecoach Festival in Coachella Valley, California.
2009, released Six Years album (no label).
2010, broke up.

Olivia Jo

Posted on February 19, 2023February 19, 2023 by WR

OLIVIA JO

From Stuart, Virginia.
Began singing as a youngster and released her first two bluegrass albums before the age of 12.
At age 16, moved to Nashville and began a career in country music where she recorded several country singles/albums.
2022, returned to her bluegrass roots and released You’ll Always Be My Blue-Eyed Darlin’ (Sony/ATV), a duet with Lou Reid.

Open Road

Posted on December 21, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

OPEN ROAD

From Longmont, Colorado.
Call themselves “young traditionalists.”
Formed in 1999 by guitarist Brad Folk and mandolinist Caleb Roberts. Banjo player Jim Rummels joined in 2000.
Band name comes from a particular kind of Stetson Hat.
Lead singer Brad Folk is an actual cowboy.
2000, released first album produced by Sally Van Meter.
2002, released Cold Wind album (Rounder).
2004, released In The Life album (Rounder).
2005, released Lucky Drive album (Rounder).
2012, Folk moved to Nashville and began performing as Bradford Lee Folk and the Bluegrass Playboys. He showcased at IBMA the following year.

Orshaw, Laura

Posted on April 22, 2022January 24, 2024 by WR

LAURA ORSHAW

From northeastern Pennsylvania. Now lives in Nashville.
Grew up in a musical family. Her father Mark Orshaw played guitar in a bluegrass band called the Lonesome Road Ramblers. He also owned a music store. Laura began playing fiddle as a youngster and made her first recordings at age 12.
Attended Berklee College of Music. Lived in Cambridge, Massachusetts for several years. While there, she performed with numerous northeastern bluegrass acts including Danny Paisley, Della Mae, Chasing Blue, Jenni Lyn and Darol Anger.
She is also a Master’s level counselor at Lesley University as Coordinator for their Expressive Therapies Graduate Program.
2015, released first solo project Songs of Lost Yesterdays (no label).
2017, married guitarist Tony Watt.
2018, joined Alan Bibey & Grasstowne.
2020, joined the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, playing fiddle.
2022, released Solitary Diamond album (Dark Shadow).
2023, was awarded the Eisenson Family Prize for American Roots Music from the Berklee College of Music.

Osborne, Bobby

Posted on December 21, 2013June 28, 2023 by WR

BOBBY OSBORNE AND THE ROCKY TOP XPRESS

From Hyden, Kentucky (Lives in Portland, Tennessee)
The elder of the Osborne Brothers, he formed his own band The Rocky Top Xpress, after brother Sonny retired in 2004.
He is the only bluegrass artist (so far) to be elected twice into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (as a member of the Osborne Brothers and also as a member of the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers.)
2001, released a duet album with Jesse McReynolds Masters of the Mandolin (Pinecastle).
2006, was appointed to a professorship at Hazard Community & Technical College in Hyden, Kentucky (his home town), teaching music.
Songwriting credits include: Bluegrass Express, Big Spike Hammer, Memories, I’ll Be All Right Tomorrow, Son of a Sawmill Man, Pain in My Heart and This Heart of Mine Can Never Say GoodBye.
His son Bobby Osborne Jr. is a member of his band, known as “Boj.”
2007, released Bluegrass Melodies album (Rounder).
2009, released Bluegrass & Beyond album (Rounder).
2010, released Memories album (Rural Rhythm), celebrating Bobby’s 60 years in bluegrass music.
2012, released New Bluegrass & Old Heartaches album (Rural Rhythm).
2017, released Original album (Compass), produced by Alison Brown.
2017, won IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year (for “Gotta Get a Message to You” from his album Original on Compass Records).
2023, died at the age of 91.

Osborne Brothers, The

Posted on December 21, 2013November 13, 2024 by WR

THE OSBORNE BROTHERS

From Hyden, Kentucky but lived most of their career in Nashville.
Bobby played mandolin; Sonny played banjo.
Bobby was six years older than Sonny.
Sonny’s given name is Roland.
1949, Bobby began musical career with banjo player Larry Richardson and the Cline Brothers (Ray and Charlie) in The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers.
1950, Sonny joined the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers at age 13.
1951, Sonny was hired by Bill Monroe to play banjo with the Blue Grass Boys.
1953, Bobby and Sonny teamed up with Jimmy Martin and performed on a radio station in Detroit as as “Jimmy Martin and the Osborne Brothers.” They were invited to come to Nashville to do a radio program, but turned it down because the pay wasn’t good enough. The sponsors hired Flatt and Scruggs instead. The show was “The Martha White Show” on WSM.
1955, parted company with Martin and worked with Charlie Bailey in Wheeling, West Virginia on WWVA.
1956, formed their own band with Red Allen singing lead. Signed by MGM Records.
1964, joined the Grand Ole Opry.
1968, recorded their biggest hit “Rocky Top.” In 1984, the song was designated the state song of Tennessee. (The Osborne Brothers performed it live before the Tennessee State Legislature.)
1969, went electric, infuriating many of their fans. At one concert, someone snuck up on stage and snipped the electric chord to Sonny’s banjo.
1970, Sonny invented a six-string banjo which had one extra bass string. Played it for several years but eventually abandoned the idea.
1971, won the CMA Award for “Vocal Group of the Year.”
1973, were the first bluegrass group to perform at the White House (for Richard Nixon).
1974, stopped using electric instruments, except for an electric bass.
1991, dropped the electric bass in favor of the acoustic string bass.
1994, were inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
2000, a section of Route 421 in Kentucky was named “Osborne Brothers Way.”
2004, Sonny retired due to a shoulder operation which impacted his ability to play up to his standards. He began building and selling banjos with his Sonny Osborne Banjo Company, specializing in a banjo called “The Osborne Chief.” For several years, he wrote a column for Bluegrass Today called “Ask Sonny Anything,” which became the website’s most popular feature.
2005, Bobby formed his own band called Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-press.
2014, Pinecastle released a previously unreleased album of 1970’s era recordings by the Osborne Brothers called Nashville.
2021, Sonny died at the age of 84.
2023, Bobby died at the age of 91.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

The Osborne Brothers: Once More Volumes I & II (Sugar Hill) Two outstanding Sugar Hill albums combined into one.
Bluegrass 1956-1968 (Bear Family). This is a box-set which includes pretty much everything the Osborne Brothers recorded.
Country Bluegrass (Universal) A good collection of the greatest hits.

Osborne, Dean

Posted on December 21, 2013September 30, 2023 by WR

DEAN OSBORNE

From Lexington, Kentucky.
Sonny and Bobby Osborne are cousins. His grandfather is their uncle.
Besides music, his passion is training and showing Tennessee walking horses, a family tradition.
1980, formed his first band called Thousandsticks Express.
1986, formed his second band Eastbound.
1988, went full-time with his band.
2006, appointed head of the Bluegrass and Traditional Music program at Hazard Community & Technical College in Hyden, Kentucky.

Osborne, Wynn

Posted on December 21, 2013March 8, 2022 by WR

WYNN OSBORNE

From Nashville, Tennessee. Lives in Ocala, Florida.
He is the son of Bobby Osborne (of the Osborne Brothers).
Learned banjo from Earl Scruggs and Sonny Osborne.
1980, formed his own band The Bluegrass Playboys and released a solo album, “Five String Magic” (CMH).
1981, played banjo with the Osborne Brothers when Sonny was injured.
1982, disbanded his group to attend technical college.
1984, worked with the Boys from Indiana.
1986, moved to the Orlando, Florida area where he took a job working in the computer industry.
Has recorded several widely-distributed albums for CMH Records in their “Pickin On …” series, and an album called The Banjos That Destroyed the World.

Ostroushko, Peter

Posted on December 21, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

PETER OSTROUSHKO

From Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Best known as an accomplished mandolin and fiddle player.
His family is from the Ukraine.
Has toured regularly with Robin and Linda Williams, Norman Blake and the Rising Fawn Ensemble, and Chet Atkins. He also worked with Jethro Burns, Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, Johnny Gimble, Greg Brown, John Hartford and Taj Mahal, among others.
He is makes regular appearances on radio’s A Prairie Home Companion, and for several years served as Music Director for the show. He has also appeared on Austin City Limits, Late Night with David Letterman, and Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.
He is also very much involved in the Children’s Music Theatre in Minneapolis.
As a composer, his works have been performed by the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Minnesota Sinfonia, the Rochester (Minnesota) Symphony Orchestra, the Des Moines Symphony and the Kremlin Chamber Orchestra, among others. He composed and performed the underscore for Ken Burns documentary about Mark Twain (PBS).
2001, was the recipient of a Bush Artist Fellowship for Music Composition.
2012, released solo project The Mando Chronicles (Red House).

Otsuka, Akira

Posted on December 21, 2013December 23, 2015 by WR

AKIRA OTSUKA

From Japan; lives in the Washington DC area.
Best known as the impressive mandolin player with The Bluegrass 45, a legendary bluegrass band from Japan.
Has become a fixture in the Washington DC bluegrass scene, plays all the bluegrass instruments.
Also played in a group called Grazz Matazz, house band at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA.
2012, released first solo project on Patuxent Records First Tear.

Overall Brothers, The

Posted on December 21, 2013December 21, 2013 by WR

THE OVERALL BROTHERS

From Nashville.
Formed in 2004 by Danny Barnes, Elmer Burchett, Jr., Kevin Harper, Wesley Probst and Kim Gardner.
Barnes (mandolin) is from Kentucky and has performed with the Barnes Family Band, Charlie Sizemore, David Parmley and Continental Divide, Pine Mountain Railroad.
Burchett (banjo) is from Kentucky and has worked with Lou Reid and Carolina, David Parmley and Continental Divide, Wyatt Rice and Santa Cruz, Ronnie Bowman, Brooks and Dunn.
Harper (fiddle) is from Louisiana and has worked in numerous country bands including the Tracy Lawrence band.
Probst (guitar) is from Missouri and worked with Harold Morrison and other artists before becoming a full-time songwriter.
Gardner (Dobro™) is from North Carolina and has worked with the Lonesome River Band, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Larry Cordle and many others.
First release: a novelty song called “Christmastime in Texas.”

Owens, Andy

Posted on December 21, 2013December 23, 2015 by WR

ANDY OWENS

Born in Louisville, Kentucky. For many years lived in Dallas, Texas. Now living in North Carolina.
Sings, writes songs and plays all the bluegrass instruments. Mandolin is his specialty.
Has an MBA from SMU. In addition to his musical interests, he has owned a recording studio, a construction business, a business that manages practices for medical doctors in the Dallas area and a sleep disorder clinic.
Formed a band called The Andy Owens Project in 1991.
Was a founding member of Danger in the Air (1983-1991) a Dallas-based band which morphed into the Dixie Chicks. Also worked with The Fredonia Rebellion (1976-1981), Les Fauves (1981-1983), a “punk-grass” band and Killbilly.
1992, released Kerosene Circuit album (Real Music).
1993, was elected to the board of the IBMA and served one term as board chairman.
1994, released “Real Music” album (Real Music).
1997, released One Eye Open album (Real Music).
Owns his own record label 1-800-Bluegrass.
1999, he and his wife Cathy sold everything and left Dallas with their two sons to go on a 12-month musical walkabout they called “The Bluegrass Expedition.” They performed in 28 countries before returning home to settle in North Carolina (near Deep Gap, home of Doc Watson). He has a recording studio there called Lonesome Pine Studio.
Hobby: coon hunting and scuba diving.
2006, began touring and recording with the Czech band Druha Trava. Together they recorded an album called Drive South (1-800-Bluegrass).
2007, released Melody for You album (1-800-Bluegrass).
He and his son Cameron have a progressive bluegrass group called FreeGrass.

New Coon Creek Girls, The

Posted on December 20, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

THE NEW COON CREEK GIRLS

From Renfro Valley, Kentucky.
Formed in 1980 by John Lair of the Renfro Valley Barn Dance to carry on the tradition of the original Coon Creek Girls. Multi-instrumentalist Vicki Simmons was the first member of the band to sign on.
The original Coon Creek Girls were a popular female hillbilly band led by Lily Mae Ledford in the 30’s and 40’s performing primarily on the old Renfro Valley Barn Dance out of Cincinnati, Ohio. They were one of the first—if not the very first—country music acts to perform at the White House. They did so in 1938 for then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt. They disbanded in 1957. Simmons met Lily Mae Ledford before she died and learned to play clawhammer-style banjo from her. Ledford gave Simmons permission to use the name Coon Creek Girls to carry on the tradition of the original group.
They were one of the first all-female bluegrass bands.
The band went through many personnel changes over the years with Vickie Simmons being the only original member to remain. Other members of the band included Pam Perry, Ramona Church Taylor, Pam Gadd, Deannie Richardson, Katie Penn and Dale Ann Bradley.
1988, released Pictures album (Turquoise).
1989, released Playing Our Respect album (Turquoise).
1991, released So I’ll Ride album (Turquoise).
1994, released L & N Don’t Stop Here Anymore album (Pinecastle).
1995, released Ain’t Love A Good Thing album (Pinecastle).
1996, released gospel album Everything You Do (Pinecastle)
1997, the group’s name was changed to Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek.
1998, released Our Point Of View album (Pinecastle).

New Grange

Posted on December 20, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

NEW GRANGE

From Nashville.
An Americana band featuring Tim O’Brien, Mike Marshall, Alison Brown, Darol Anger, Todd Phillips and pianist Philip Aaberg.
1998, the group was formed by Anger and Marshall to record a Christmas album (it was eventually re-released on Compass Records: A Christmas Heritage.) They decided to stay together, tour nationally and record again.
2000, released New Grange album (Compass).
Three of them (Phillips, Anger and Marshall) were original members of the David Grisman Quintet.

New Grass Revival

Posted on December 20, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

NEW GRASS REVIVAL

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Formed in 1971 by 19-year-old Sam Bush.
Original members: Sam Bush (mandolin), Courtney Johnson (banjo), Curtis Burch (guitar and Dobro™), Ebo Walker (bass). Bush, Johnson and Walker had previously worked together in the Bluegrass Alliance.
First gig: Elizabethton, Tennessee. There were 12 people in the audience.
First album: 1972 “Arrival of the New Grass Revival” (Starday).
1970’s, toured with John Hartford, Leon Russell, and Cheech and Chong.
1973, Butch Robins replaced Ebo Walker on bass.
1974, John Cowan (bass) replace Butch Robins.
1975, released Fly Through The Country album (Flying Fish).
1977, released When The Storm Is Over album (Flying Fish).
1981, Burch and Johnson left the band for personal reasons. For a short time, Sam and John performed together as the “Two Grass Revival.”
1981, Pat Flynn (guitar) and Bela Fleck (banjo) joined the group.
1984, released On The Boulevard album (Sugar Hill).
1986, released New Grass Revival album (EMI).
1987, released Hold to a Dream album (Capitol).
1989, released Friday Night in America album (Capitol).
1989, released Live album (Sugar Hill).
1990, the group broke up. Bush went to work with Emmylou Harris and the Nash Ramblers. Fleck formed a band called the Flecktones. Cowan formed a group called the Sky Kings. Flynn worked as a solo artist, studio musician and record producer in Nashville.
1996, Courtney Johnson died. The band reunited for one show that year to benefit his widow.
1997, Bush and Cowan reunited to form The Sam Bush Band and a blues band called Duckbutter.
1997, Garth Brooks recorded two NGR songs: “Do What You Gotta Do” (written by Pat Flynn) and “Callin’ Baton Rouge” (with NGR providing instrumental backing).
2009, they reunited for a performance of one song “White Freightliner Blues” at Merlefest.

New Quicksilver, The

Posted on December 19, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

THE NEW QUICKSILVER

A short-lived group formed in 1986 featuring Terry Baucom (banjo), Jimmy Haley (guitar), Randy Graham (bass) and Alan Bibey (mandolin).
Baucom, Graham and Haley were members of Doyle Lawson’s band Quicksilver until 1985. They left to form their own band and decided to take the name Quicksilver with them. Lawson, however, claimed ownership of the band name, so Baucom and company added the word “New” to their name.
1988, disbanded.
1991, Baucom and Haley joined two other former members of Doyle Lawson’s band (Russell Moore and Ray Deaton) to form “IIIrd Tyme Out.”
1998, their album was reissued under the name Baucom Bibey Graham & Haley (Rebel), which led to the formation of a new band, BlueRidge.

New River Line

Posted on December 19, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

NEW RIVER LINE

From Flatgap, Kentucky.
Formed in 2002 by Dave Carroll (guitar) and Ron King (mandolin).
Carroll has written songs for the Lonesome River Band (“The Game is Over”), Blue Moon Rising (“This Old Martin Box”) and many others.
2011, released album I’m Moving On (Kindred) dedicated to the memory of band member Jerry Chaney (Dobro) who was killed in an auto accident as the album was being completed.

New Road

Posted on December 19, 2013December 19, 2015 by WR

NEW ROAD

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
A gospel group that performed primarily in churches throughout the southeast.
Formed in 1995 by Stuart Wyrick (banjo), Randall Massengill (guitar), Mike Ramsey (mandolin), Vic Graves (Dobro™) and Scott Payne (bass).
They recorded four albums on their own label which they sold primarily at their concerts.
Disbanded in 2009.

New Tradition, The

Posted on December 19, 2013April 6, 2016 by WR

THE NEW TRADITION

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1988 and won “best band” at the SPBGMA awards show. This led to a record contract with the gospel music giant, Brentwood Music, the label’s first bluegrass act.
1990, released Bluegrass Gospel At Its Finest (Brentwood).
1991, released Seed of Love album (Brentwood).
Danny Roberts (mandolin) is married to the former Andrea Campbell of Petticoat Junction.
1993, released Closer Than It’s Ever Been album (Brentwood).
1994 lineup: Danny Roberts (mandolin), Ray Cardwell (bass), Ken White (guitar) and Richie Dotson (banjo).
1997, released A Piece at a Time album (Pinecastle).
1998, released Daddy on His Knees album (Pinecastle).
1998 lineup: Roberts, Aaron McDaris (banjo), Daryl Mosley (bass) and Jamie Clifton (guitar).
1999, released Stand & Be Counted album (Mountain Home).
1999 lineup: Roberts, McDaris, Clifton and Brandon Rickman (bass).
2000, released Cradle Cross Crown album (Mountain Home).
2000, broke up for good.
2002, Mosely joined the Osborne Brothers.
2004, Roberts joined The Grascals.
2004, Mosely formed a duo with Tim Graves.
2016, Cardwell formed a new band called Tennessee Moon.

New Vintage

Posted on December 19, 2013April 8, 2020 by WR

NEW VINTAGE

From Cary, North Carolina.
Formed in 1989 by Russell Johnson (mandolin) and Earl Lewellyn (guitar).
1993, won first place at the Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown national finals in Owensboro, Kentucky.
1993, won “best band” at the SPBGMA Award Show in Nashville.
1993, released first album “Timeless” (New Time).
1995, Julie Elkins (banjo) joined the band.
1995, released No Time for the Blues album (Pinecastle).
1996, released Sands of Time album (Doobie Shea).
1997, Jody King (banjo), James Doncsecz (bass) and Kim Gardner (Dobro™) join the band.
1999, released Changing Times album (Pinecastle).
2000 lineup: Johnson, Llewellyn, Gena Britt (banjo), Greg Martin (bass) and Kim Gardner (Dobro™).
2000, played last show at IBMA Fan Fest.
Johnson (mandolin, lead vocals) writes much of the band’s original material. He has also recorded as a solo artist and performs with a band called The Grass Cats.
Before forming New Vintage, Johnson performed professionally as a magician.
2007, the group was re-formed by Johnson (who is also in the Grass Cats).

Newfound Road

Posted on December 19, 2013February 21, 2022 by WR

NEWFOUND ROAD

From Franklin, Ohio.
The group formed in 2001 as a gospel group featuring vocalist Tim Shelton who had recorded previously as a solo artist. The group eventually transitioned to a progressive bluegrass band.
Original members: Carl “Junior” Williams (banjo), Tim Shelton (guitar), Tim Caudill (bass) and Rob Baker (mandolin).
2002, released first album Newfound Road (Mountain Home).
2003, released Full Heart album (Mountain Home).
2004, released Somewhere Between album (Mountain Home).
2006, released Life In A Song album (Rounder).
2009, released Same Old Place album (Rounder).
2010 lineup: Tim Shelton (guitar, lead vocals), Jamey Booher (bass), Joe Booher (mandolin), Josh Miller (banjo).
2011, released final album Live At The Down Home (Rounder).
2013, Shelton disbanded the group and signed with Lonesome Day Records to record several solo projects.
2015, the group returned to performing selected dates.
2019, disbanded again, this time for good.

Newton, Garrett

Posted on February 10, 2017March 8, 2023 by WR

THE GARRETT NEWTON BAND

From Benson, North Carolina.
Began playing the banjo at age 10. Took lessons from Steve Dilling.
2016, at age 16 formed his own band and was being featured at Lorraine Jordan’s Coffee House (he also works as a barista there) and appears with her on the road.
2017, released first album Young Man, Old Soul (Pinecastle).
2019, released Bluegrass Barn album (Pinecastle).
2022, formed a Hank Williams tribute band called Garrett Newton and the Lovesick Drifters.

Newton, Mark

Posted on December 18, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

MARK NEWTON

Originally from Padukah, Kentucky and lived in Fredericksburg, Virginia for many years. Moved to Nashville in 2004.
At age 14, played in his father’s band, called Frog Newton and the Tadpoles.
Mid-70’s, put together his first band, Cabin Hill.
1976, joined the Heights of Grass.
1978, joined the Knoxville Grass.
1981, re-joined the Heights of Grass.
1983, formed the Virginia Squires with four of the five members of the Heights of Grass.
1988, quit the music business.
1990, formed the Mark Newton Entertainment Agency and began promoting the Graves Mountain Bluegrass Festival in Virginia.
1992, teamed up with banjo legend Bill Emerson to form The Bill Emerson and Mark Newton Band.
1995, joined the Tony Rice Unit.
1998, recorded his first solo album Living a Dream (Rebel) with Bill Emerson, Ralph Stanley, Tony Rice, Dudley Connell, others.
1999, formed the Mark Newton band and recorded an album Follow Me Back to the Fold (Rebel) featuring duets with Rhonda Vincent, Lynn Morris, Claire Lynch, Dale Ann Bradley, other women singers.
2001, won IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year (for his album Follow Me Back to the Fold).
2002, released Reborn album (Rebel).
2003, released No Boundaries album (Rebel).
2006, released Hillbilly Hemingway album (Rebel).
2011, formed “Mark Newton’s Stillhouse Band” with Andrew Blythe (banjo) and Leah Needham (guitar, resonator guitar).
2013, teamed up with fiddler/vocalist Steve Thomas to record Reborn album (Pinecastle).

Newtown

Posted on December 18, 2013January 7, 2022 by WR

NEWTOWN

From Lexington, Kentucky
Formed originally as the Kati Penn Band. They changed their name to NewTown in 2011.
Band members: Kati Penn-Williams (fiddle), Junior Williams (banjo), C.J. Cain (guitar), Clint Hurd (mandolin), and Terry Poirier (bass). James Kee was the original mandolin player (2010-2012)
Kati Penn-Williams began playing as a youngster. At 12 (1995), she performed and recorded with the “Young Acoustic All-Stars” a group coached by Pete Wernick. She has worked with Wild Rose, the New Coon Creek Girls, Dale Ann Bradley, the Jim Hurst Band, Bill Anderson and J.D. Crowe. In 2003, she recorded her first solo album “Crazy or Not.”
Junior Williams (married to Kati) is a former member of NewFound Road.
2010, released first album “My Turn to Cry” (no label).
2011, released Newtown album (no label).
2013, released Time Machine album (Mountain Home).
2016, released Harlan Road album (Mountain Home).
2019, Kati Penn and Junior Williams divorced and Newtown was disbanded.
2020, Kati Penn joined the Kentucky-based Hancock and Shouse (Arthur Hancock and Chris Shouse).
2020, Williams joined his old bandmate Tim Shelton in The Tim Shelton Syndicate.
2020, Kati Penn joined Alan Bibey and Grasstowne.
2021, Kati Penn married banjo player Justin Jenkins (also a member of Grasstowne).

Nicholson, Darren

Posted on January 22, 2014January 30, 2023 by WR

DARREN NICHOLSON

From Western North Carolina.
2007, was a founding member of Balsam Range (playing mandolin). He previously worked with the Alecia Nugent Band, Audie Blaylock, Hazel Creek and the Crowe Brothers.
He also fronts his own group, The Darren Nicholson Band. Members include Steve Sutton (banjo), Kevin Sluter (bass) and Griff Martin (guitar).
2007, released Darren Nicholson (Bearded Baby).
2014, released Things Left Undone album (Bearded Baby) featuring special guests Rhonda Vincent, Carl Jackson, Tim Surrett, John Driskell Hopkins, Audie Blaylock, Aaron Ramsey, Steve Thomas and others.
2018, released Fret a Spell album (Bearded Baby), all instrumentals.
2021, released Man on a Mission album (Mountain Home).
2022, released “Songs of Hope and Inspiration” album (Bearded Baby).
2022, left Balsam Range to purse a solo career.

Nickel Creek

Posted on December 18, 2013August 15, 2024 by WR

NICKEL CREEK

From Vista, California (near San Diego).
First appearance: 1989 at the San Diego Bluegrass Festival (Lake Henshaw, CA). They also began making regular appearances at “That Pizza Place” in Carlsbad, CA).
They began as a “kid band” featuring Sean and Sara Watkins (brother and sister on guitar and fiddle), Chris and Scott Thile (father and son on bass and mandolin). The three kids were all under 12 at the time.
They were mentored and taught by John Moore and Dennis Caplinger of Bluegrass Etc.
Their band name came from a tune on one of Byron Berline’s fiddle albums. Nickel Creek is actually a ranch in Texas where Byron wrote the tune. When the ranch owner found out about the Nickel Creek band, he invited them to perform there—their first out-of-state gig.
1991, released first album on cassette “Nickel Creek” (no label). Sean was 14 years old; Chris and Sara were both 10 years old.
1994, released second album on cassette “Little Cowpoke” (no label).
First DJ to play Nickel Creek on the radio: Wayne Rice, KSON-FM San Diego!
1995, group was split geographically when the Thiles moved to Murray, Kentucky.
1997, released “Here to There” album (no label).
1997, got first national TV exposure on the Statler Brothers Show (TNN).
1999, recorded Nickel Creek album, produced by Alison Krauss.
2000, had a hit video on CMT. Signed by the William Morris Agency.
2000, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2001, received two Grammy nominations: Country Instrumental Performance and Bluegrass Album.
2001, worked several shows with Dolly Parton.
2001, won the IBMA award for Instrumental Group of the Year. Chris also won award for Mandolin Player of the Year.
2001, were featured in a double-page photo spread and article in TIME magazine as one of the top 100 “Innovators of the Year.”
2001, was nominated for Vocal Group of the Year and the Horizon Award at the CMA Awards. Performed on the show.
2003, won Grammy Award for This Side album (Best Contemporary Folk Album)
2004, “This Side” album was certified Gold.
2004, did a “Mutual Admiration Society” tour with Glenn Phillips (Toad the Wet Sprocket), Pete Thomas (Elvis Costello) and John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin).
2007, did their farewell tour before disbanding.
2007, Chris Thile formed a bluegrass band called the Tensions Mountain Boys, which later became the Punch Brothers.
Since the band breakup: Sara and Sean Watkins have been performing and recording as a duo, as solo artists, as The Watkins Family Hour and The Fiction Family. Sara has appeared on, and guest-hosted Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion radio broadcast. She is also a member of I’m With Her (with Aoife O’Donovan and Sarah Jarosz). Chris has recorded solo projects as well as with the Punch Brothers and became full-time host of NPR’s A Prairie Home Companion (later called Live from Here with Chris Thile).
2014, Nickel Creek reunited to record A Dotted Line album and to tour in support of it, celebrating their 25th anniversary as a band.

Nickerson, Ross

Posted on December 18, 2013December 20, 2015 by WR

ROSS NICKERSON

From Baltimore, Maryland. Also has a home in Tucson, Arizona.
Best known as a banjo teacher and writer of banjo instruction books. Own a studio in Baltimore called “The Banjo School.”
Twice won the Telluride Banjo Contest.
2001, a member of the Maryland Banjo Academy.
Has a band called Ross Nickerson and the Fast Brothers.
2003, released Blazing the West album (Pinecastle).
2009, released an album called “Let’s Kick Some Ass” with Blue Highway (excluding Jason Burleson). A year later, he re-released it with a less-controversial title Lets Kick It (Bones).

Nightflyer

Posted on December 18, 2013July 22, 2019 by WR

NIGHTFLYER

From Southwest Ohio.
Formed in 2010 by Richard Propps (guitar), Rick Hayes (mandolin), Tony Kakaris (bass), Tim Jackson (Dobro™) and Ronnie Stewart (banjo). Nightflyer’s Stewart is not the same Ronnie Stewart who has performed with the Boxcars, Seldom Scene, etc.
Hayes is a well-known bluegrass luthier (Rick Hayes Instruments) and promoter (opened a bluegrass venue in Covington, Kentucky). He previously performed with Blue and Lonesome and the The Gibson Brothers.
2012, released first self-titled album Nightflyer (no label).
2015, relased Rail, River and Road album (no label).
2019, released Flight album (Pinecastle).

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, The

Posted on December 18, 2013November 14, 2017 by WR

THE NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND

From Los Angeles, California.
Also called “The Dirt Band.”
Formed in 1966 by John McEuen, Jimmy Fadden, Jeff Hanna, Jimmy Ibbotson.
Started out as a jug band, incorporating elements of country-rock and bluegrass.
1970, released Uncle Charlie & His Dog Teddy (Capitol) which included several bluegrass cuts like “Clinch Mountain Backstep” and “Jesse James.”
1972, scored first #1 hit: Jerry Jeff Walker’s “Mr. Bojangles.”
1972, they appeared in the movie “Paint Your Wagon.”
1972, recorded a platinum-selling, Grammy-award winning album Will the Circle Be Unbroken (Capitol) with guest artists including Earl Scruggs, Roy Acuff, Mother Maybelle Carter and Jimmy Martin.
During the 1980’s, the NGDB had 17 consecutive #1 songs on the country charts including “Dance Little Jean” and “Long Hard Road.”
1988, John McEwen quit the band to pursue a solo career and other musical interests.
1989, released Will The Circle Be Unbroken, Vol. 2 (MCA Nashville), also featuring numerous special guests. It also won a Grammy Award in the Bluegrass category (for Bruce Hornsby’s “The Valley Road.”)
2001, John McEuen returned as a member of the band after a 15-year hiatus as a solo artist.
2003, released Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Vol. 3 (Capitol Nashville) which won the IBMA Award for Recorded Event of the Year.
2017, McEuen left the band, citing differences with the band’s management.

Nixon, Blevins and Gage

Posted on April 6, 2016 by WR

NIXON, BLEVINS AND GAGE

From Raleigh, North Carolina.
An acoustic trio featuring Larry Nixon (guitar), David Blevins (guitar) and Steven Gage (bass).
Nixon is an engineer and is also host of The Pinecone Bluegrass Show on WQDR in Raleigh. He plays a thumb-picking style of guitar.
Blevins is also an engineer from Raleigh and plays a flat-picking style of guitar.
Gage is originally from Columbus, Ohio and is a psychotherapist in Raleigh.
They have released seven albums, their latest being “Pickin’ on Doc” (2016, no label), a tribute to the music of Doc Watson.

Nixon, Michelle

Posted on December 18, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

MICHELLE NIXON AND DRIVE

From Goochland, Virginia.
Nixon learned to sing in church. Began singing with country bands at age 14.
1989, she and husband Nick formed a country band called Slate River.
2002, formed Michelle Nixon and Drive with mandolin player Vernon Hughes (formerly with the Heights of Grass, Appalachian Drive) and bass player Jim Green (formerly with Bluegrass Etc., Fastest Grass Alive).
She owns a hair salon.
2003, released It’s My Turn album (Pinecastle).
2005, released What More Should I Say? album (Pinecastle) with special guest Bill Anderson.
2011, after taking several years off for her family, she returned to performing with a new album A Place I Belong (Mountain Fever).

No Grass Limit

Posted on January 25, 2015November 9, 2020 by WR

NO GRASS LIMIT

From Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Formed in 2011.
Members: Chuck and Sandi Millar (fiddle and guitar, husband and wife), Clint Birtzer (guitar), Mike Hedding (banjo) and Vaughn Asselstine (bass).
2011, won first place in the Minnesota Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association’s “Race for a Place” band contest.
The Millars are founders of Lesson Pros, a well-known music instruction studio in Minneapolis.
Birtzer has won the Minnesota State Flatpick Guitar championship several times.
2013, released “Originals” album, produced by Randy Kohrs.

No One You Know

Posted on December 18, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

NO ONE YOU KNOW

From Jackson County, West Virginia
Band members: Don Anderson (bass), Ramie Bennett (banjo), Lance Gainer (guitar), Bruce Jones (Dobro™), Rachel Burge (mandolin).
Formed in 2009.
2010, won SPBGMA band contest.
Bennett is two time Maryland State Banjo Champion, and one time West Virginia State Banjo Champion.
2010, released first album Calm Before The Storm (Mountain Fever).
2012, disbanded.

No Time Flatt

Posted on August 19, 2019April 11, 2020 by WR

NO TIME FLATT

From Humboldt, Tennesee (between Nashville and Memphis).
Formed in 2015 by Patrick Cupples (bass), Steve Moore (banjo,guitar), Kevin Wright (guitar), Becky Weaver (fiddle) and Kevin Keen (mandolin).
Their fans call themselves “Flattheads.”
2017, 2018 won Bluegrass Band of the Year at the Tennessee Music Awards (held in Memphis).
2017, released self-titled album (no label).
2019, released Calling After Me album (no label).

Nob Hill Boys, The

Posted on December 18, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

THE NOB HILL BOYS

From Madison, Wisconsin.
Formed in 1998.
There is a place called Nob Hill in Madison, but none of the band actually live there.
Members: Jon Peik (banjo), Paul Kienitz (fiddle), Fabke (mandolin), Seth Foerster (guitar), and Mark Hembree (bass).
Banjo player Jon Peik has a degree in theology.
Mandolinist John Fabke has a bluegrass radio show in Madison.
Hembree was a member of the Nashville Bluegrass Band and the Dreadful Snakes.
1999, released Country Blues album (Orchard).
2001, released Someday, Sometime, Somehow album (Orchard).
2005, released Live! @ Mother Fools album (Orchard).

Norman, Holly

Posted on August 25, 2016 by WR

HOLLY NORMAN

From Powell, Tennessee (near Knoxville).
A singer/songwriter who performed for many years as a cast member at Dollywood Theme Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Her grandfather Bill Powell was a friend of Roy Acuff’s and a member of his first band.
She was the featured baton twirler for the University of Tennessee’s “Tennessee Pride” Marching Band.
2014, released first bluegrass album Appalachian Angel (no label).
2016, released “Taking Care of Bluegrass: A Tribute to Elvis” album (no label) featuring bluegrass covers of Elvis Presley songs.

Norris, Kody (The Kody Norris Show)

Posted on August 21, 2020January 30, 2024 by WR

THE KODY NORRIS SHOW

From Mountain City, Tennessee.
Band members: Kody Norris (guitar), Mary Rachel Nalley (fiddle), Josiah Tyree (banjo) and Charlie Lowman (bass).
Their “show” moniker comes from their wardrobe: colorful, tailored suits adorned with rhinestones, ties, classic hats and ornate boots.
2017, released When I Get The Money Made (no label) which won the award for Bluegrass Album of the Year by the National Traditional Country Music Association.
2023, released Rhinestone Revival album (Rebel Records).
2023, made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry (August 9).
2024, won seven awards at the SPBGMA Awards in Nashville (including Entertainer of the Year and Song of the Year).

Northern Lights

Posted on December 18, 2013September 14, 2018 by WR

NORTHERN LIGHTS

From Boston, Massachusetts.
Formed in 1975.
Founding members: Taylor Armerding (mandolin), Bill Henry (guitar) and Bob Emery (bass).
Alison Brown was a member of the band in the early-1980’s while she attended Harvard University. Later replaced by Mike Kropp.
Armerding is also a reporter and assistant editor for North Shore Sunday, a weekly magazine based in Danvers, Mass. His father was a minister and the former president of Wheaton College.
1984, released Before The Fire Comes Down album (Revonah).
1990, released Take You to the Sky album (Flying Fish).
1991, released Can’t Buy Your Way album (Flying Fish).
1995, Taylor Armerding’s son Jake joined the band, playing fiddle.
1999, made appearances with with Tom and Ray Magliozzi (AKA “Click and Clack), hosts of the PBS radio program Car Talk.
2000, released a live album Three August Nights (no label) with guest Vassar Clements on fiddle.
2002, Henry recorded a solo project Red Sky (OMS).
2003, Armerding left the band after 28 years to pursue his own musical interests. Performs occasionally with The Bluegrass Gospel Project, Southern Rail and the Jonathan Edwards trio. He was replaced by Ben Demerath, formerly with Sugarbeat. Also joining the band: Dave Dick (banjo) and John Daniel (bass.)

Northern Pacific

Posted on December 18, 2013 by WR

NORTHERN PACIFIC

From Woodinville, Washington.
Band members: Rich Jones (guitar); Joseph Wilmhoff (bass); Nick Hornbuckle (banjo), John Tubbs (mandolin).
Jones previously worked with Kenny Baker and Josh Graves.
Hornbuckle previously worked with Kathy Kallick. He subsequently joined John Reischman and the Jaybirds.
Tubbs won the Western Canadian Mandolin Championship (1996).
1997, released “Lone Pine” album.

Nothin’ Fancy

Posted on December 18, 2013September 15, 2023 by WR

NOTHIN’ FANCY

From Buena Vista, Virginia (Shenandoah Valley).
Formed in 1994.
Several members of this group were previously in The East Coast Bluegrass Band.
Members: Mike Andes (mandolin), Gary Farris (guitar), Mitchell Davis (banjo), Chris Sexton (fiddle) and Tony Shorter (bass). Andes writes most of the band’s material and sings lead.
2001, hosted their 1st annual bluegrass festival in Buena Vista.
They have won the SPBGMA’s “Entertaining Band of the Year” award multiple times.
2002, released Once Upon a Road album (Pincastle).
2004, released Reflections album (Pincastle).
2006, released Album #7 album (Pinecastle).
2009, released Lord Bless This House album (Pinecastle).
2012, guitarist Gary Farris departed; was replaced by Justin Tomlin.
2014, Tomlin left the group and was replaced by Jesse Smathers.
2015, Smathers left the group and was replaced by Caleb Cox.
2015, released By Any Other Name album (Mountain Fever).
2018, released Time Changes Everthing album (Mountain Fever).
2019, released Undeniable album (Mountain Fever).
2021, Jake Lauzon joined the band, replacing Caleb Cox on guitar. Current lineup: Andes (mandolin), Sexton (fiddle), James Cox (bass), Jacob Flick (banjo) and Lauzon (guitar).
2022, Lauzon left the band and was replaced by guitarist Curt Gausman.
2023, James Cox (bass) left the band and was replaced by Jenkins (that’s his stage name).
2023, released Here We Go Again album (Mountain Fever).

Nu-Blu

Posted on December 18, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

NU-BLU

From Siler City, North Carolina.
Formed in 2003 by a husband-wife duo Carolyn and Daniel Routh (bass and guitar). Other band members: Levi Austin (banjo) and Austin Koerner (mandolin).
Shortly after the band’s formation, Carolyn had a series of strokes which affected her ability to talk and walk. After several years of therapy, she recovered fully and was able to resume her singing career.
2009, signed by Pinecastle Records just a few months before the label went out of business.
2010, under new ownership, Pinecastle Records released their album Nights.
2011, released second album Blu-Disc (Pinecastle).
2012, released Nail By Nail album (Pinecastle).
2013, signed with Rural Rhythm Records and released Ten album (celebrating their tenth anniversary as a band.)
2014, released All The Way album (Rural Rhythm) with guest Sam Moore of Sam and Dave.
2017, released Vagabonds album (Voxhall).
2018, band lineup: Daniel and Carolyn Routh (guitar and bass respectively), Justin Harrison (mandolin/fiddle), Calder Baker (banjo).
2019, banjo prodigy, 14-year-old Austin Hefflefinger replaced Baker.

Nugent, Alecia

Posted on December 18, 2013August 3, 2020 by WR

ALECIA NUGENT

From Hickory Grove, Louisiana.
1988, began her professional singing career at age 13 with her family band Southland Bluegrass (AKA The Nugent Family Band). This band had been performing together since 1973.
2001, released a solo album For Love’s Sake (no label) produced by Carl Jackson under her married name Alecia McRight. It was re-leased in 2004 as Alecia Nugent, her first album for Rounder Records.
2006, released A Little Girl… A Big Four-Lane album (Rounder).
2009, released Hillbilly Goddess album (Rounder).
2020, after taking ten years off to raise her children, she returned to performing with a country album “The Old Side of Town” (no label).

Nunally, Jim

Posted on December 18, 2013March 26, 2020 by WR

JIM NUNALLY

From the San Francisco Bay area.
A guitarist and vocalist who performs with many bands: John Reischman and the Jaybirds, The David Grisman Bluegrass Experience, Nell Robinson, Bangers and Grass, Dix Bruce, Keith Little, Judy Forrest, and Due West.
He is a two-time winner of the Western Open Flatpicking Championship.
1991, played guitar on the CBS-TV special “Snoopy’s Reunion” (based on the Peanuts comic strip).
1994, played guitar on the soundtrack to the feature film “The Beverly Hillbillies” with Bela Fleck, Mike Marshall and Sam Bush.
He is a record producer and engineer at a SF recording studio (won Grammy award for his work on “True Life Blues: The Songs of Bill Monroe.”)
1995, released From Fathers to Sons album (no label) with guitarist Dix Bruce.
2001, joined John Reischman and the Jaybirds.
2003, released Brothers at Heart with Dix Bruce (FGM).
2003, joined David Grisman’s Bluegrass Experience band.
2007, released Gloria’s Waltz album (no label).
2013, released an album with vocalist Nell Robinson House & Garden (no label).
2017, released Baby Let’s Take the Long Way Home album (no label) with the Nell Robinson and Jim Nunally Band.

McCormick Brothers, The

Posted on December 12, 2013February 28, 2020 by WR

THE MCCORMICK BROTHERS

From Westmoreland, Tennessee.
A family band that began performing together in 1945 (they ranged in age from 7 to 19 at that time.)
Featured brothers Lloyd (guitar), Haskell (banjo), Kelly (mandolin) and William Harold (bass.)
Recorded for Fred Rose’s Hickory record label. They were heard by Ernest Tubb who was flying over Gallatin in a small plane and heard them on the radio. Tubb urged Rose to sign them and he did.
1955, recorded the original version of “The Bugle Call Rag.” Their signature song was the lighthearted “Red Hen Boogie.”
1970, recorded an album for Metromedia Records called “Brass Meets Grass” featuring horns with bluegrass instrumentation.
Haskell also worked with country singer Marty Robbins and played banjo with Lester Flatt’s Nashville Grass (1971-1973). While with Lester, he recorded two originals: “McCormick String Picnic” and “The Haskel Stomp.”
2001, some members of this band formed a group called Bluegrass Invasion.
2001, released The Very Best of The McCormick Brothers album (Varese Sarabande)
2005, Kelly died.
2007, released Bluegrass Invasion album (Stonewall).
2009, released Somewhere in Time album (no label).
2013, William died.

McDaris, Aaron

Posted on December 12, 2013September 11, 2024 by WR

AARON MCDARIS

From Hartsville, Missouri.
Began playing banjo at age 12.
At age 14, began performing with a regional band called Second Exit.
1997, joined New Tradition.
2000, joined the Larry Stephenson Band.
2005, released a solo album First Time Around (Pinecastle).
2006, joined Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper with Audie Blaylock.
2007, joined The Grascals, replacing David Talbot.
When not traveling playing bluegrass, he has a landscaping business (mowing lawns).
2009, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, replacing Kenny Ingram.
2010, he acquired Sonny Osborne’s “Rocky Top” banjo (pre-war Gibson RB-3).
2022, he acquired ownership of the Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival (Conway, Missouri).

McEuen, John

Posted on December 12, 2013October 27, 2017 by WR

JOHN MCEUEN

From Orange County, California. Lives in Aspen, Colorado.
Founding member of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.
Began his show-business career at age 16 with comedian Steve Martin doing magic tricks at Disneyland. (John gave Steve banjo lessons during that time.)
Inspired musically by Doug Dillard (The Dillards).
Made numerous appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and Nashville Now (TNN) which he has also hosted.Wrote the score for one feature film—”The Man Outside” with Levon Helm, as well as several NBC-TV specials.
1976, produced the Grammy-winning Will the Circle Be Unbroken album (Capitol) featuring the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band with Doc Watson, Earl Scruggs, Roy Acuff and many other bluegrass and country music legends.
1985, released first solo project John McEuen (Warner Brothers).
1987, left the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band to spend more time with his family and pursue other career opportunities.
1989, produced a full-length documentary on the original Dillards called The Dillards: A Night in the Ozarks (Varese Sarabande).
1991, released String Wizards album (Vanguard).
1994, won “Best Traditional Western Album” (for John Mceuen Presents: The Music of the Wild West) at the Western Heritage Awards Show in Oklahoma City.
1994, released String Wizards II (Vanguard). This album was nominated for a Grammy Award.
1994, won the Uncle Dave Macon award for his role in preserving and performing historic music.
1994, wrote and produced the music for “The Good Old Boys”, a TV movie starring Tommy Lee Jones and Sissy Spacek.
1996, wrote an autobiography, titled The Dirt Road.
1996, released Acoustic Traveller album (Vanguard).
2001, re-joined the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band to tour and record again.
2005, released Round Trip: Live in L.A. album (Rural Rhythm).
2010, won a Grammy Award as producer of Steve Martin’s “The Crow” album (Best Bluegrass Album).
2012, released For All The Good album (Mesa Bluemoon) with his sons Jonathan and Nathan.
2013, was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Charlie Poole Music Festival.
2017, was inducted into the National Banjo Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.
2017, left the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band following the completion of their 50th anniversary tour.

McGann, John

Posted on December 12, 2013December 12, 2013 by WR

JOHN MCGANN

From Boston; born in Morristown, New Jersey.
Founding member of the Beacon Hillbillies, a Boston band (1991-1995).
Plays guitar and mandolin.
1982, played with a band called Lost in the Shuffle.
1985, won the mandolin championship in Winfield, Kansas.
1984-1990, played with local bands The Stringbusters and Off Center.
1992, formed a group called Rust Farm (formerly Flywheel) with mandolinist Chris Moore.
Also performs with a variety of fiddle bands, traditional Irish and Celtic groups.
2001, performed and recorded with The Wayfaring Strangers, a jazz-bluegrass fusion with Matt Glaser, Andy Statman, Tony Trischka and others.
2012, died at the age of 52.

Adam McIntosh

Posted on February 17, 2024March 24, 2024 by WR

ADAM MCINTOSH

From Lebanon, Ohio.
Began performing at age 18 with various bluegrass bands. While he is primarily known as a guitarist, he plays all the bluegrass instruments.
2001-2003, joined the Dry Branch Fire Squad (playing guitar).
2006-2013, joined Joe Mullins as a founding member of the Radio Ramblers.
2006-2010, also played in a family band called Jetts Creek.
2013, joined American Drive.
2014, rejoined the Dry Branch Fire Squad.
2019, rejoined Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers.
He received a degree in Pastoral Counseling from Lee University
2024, released his first solo project, Restless (Billy Blue).

McKinney, James and Angela

Posted on December 12, 2013February 2, 2022 by WR

THE JAMES & ANGELA MCKINNEY BAND

From Dallas, Texas.
James is originally from Ft. Payne, Alabama.
Age 15, James won the Southern States Banjo Championship.
Age 19, he moved to Nashville and directed Opryland’s bluegrass show. Also worked as a studio musician.
1980, toured with Vassar Clements.
1982, won the National Banjo Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
1987, moved back to Dallas and formed Danger in the Air with wife Angela.
1990, moved back to Nashville and formed the James and Angela McKinney Band.
2004, released first album “A Clear View.”
2008, Angela formed her own band called Angela McKinney and Her Mighty Small Band (based in Tennessee). James formed a band called James McKinney and the Night Travelers (based in Georgia).

McKrells, The

Posted on December 12, 2013 by WR

THE MCKRELLS

From Saratoga Springs, New York.
Founded by guitarist and vocalist Kevin McKrell (formerly with Donnybrook Fair).
A regional band, they blended Irish/Celtic music with bluegrass/newgrass.
1996, won the band contest at the Winterhawk Bluegrass Festival.
They performed regularly at the Night Eagle Café in Oxford, New York.
They played Carnegie Hall and opened for major touring bands suchas Lonestar. They also toured Ireland.
2005, broke up for good.

Baylor, Donal

Posted on November 2, 2013April 19, 2020 by WR

DONAL BAYLOR

From Capital City, Canberra, Australia.
1985-6, won the Australian National Fiddle Contest. He also was a runner-up in the National Flat-pick Guitar Championship.
1990, was the first Austalian fiddle player to qualify for the Grand Master Fiddle Championship in Nashville.
1991, formed the Baylor Brothers with his brother Peter.
2003, formed a band in Perth called Bluegrass Parkway.
2010, released solo project “Town and Country Fiddler”

McLain Family Band, The

Posted on December 12, 2013February 2, 2024 by WR

THE MCLAIN FAMILY BAND

From Berea Kentucky.
Performed together as a family from 1972 through 1989.
Were associated with the armed forces which took them to more than 80 foreign countries as “America’s Ambassadors of Traditional Music.”
Often performed with symphony orchestras and were the first bluegrass band to do so.
Bought the Big Hill Farm near Berea and for 13 years hosted the first “international” bluegrass festival featuring bands from the U.S. and abroad.
Included Raymond K. McLain, father of the McLain Family Band and a professor of musicology at Berea College (he died in 2003); Raymond W. McLain, Michael K. McLain, Ruth McLain Riopel, Michael Riopel, and Nancy Ann McLain.
Recorded more than a dozen albums on their own label, Country Life Records.
Raymond K. McLain passed away in 2004.
Michael K. and his wife Jennifer perform together as a duo.
The entire family has been involved in teaching bluegrass music for decades beginning with the elder Raymond K. McLain, who was a professor of musicology at Berea College in Kentucky, and continuing with Raymond W. McLain’s work at East Tennessee State University and Morehead State University in Kentucky, Michael McLain’s work with the bluegrass program at Belmont University in Nashville, Ruth McLain Smith’s teaching at Morehead State University, and Al White’s (husband of Alice McLain and a former band member) teaching at Berea College.
2013, were presented with the IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
They reunited for several years with Raymond W., Ruth, Nancy Ann and Michael Riopel performing occasional shows.
2024, they were inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.

McLain, Michael and Jennifer

Posted on December 11, 2013October 15, 2016 by WR

MICHAEL AND JENNIFER MCLAIN BAND (THE BANJOCATS)

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Michael plays banjo, Jennifer plays mandolin (although Jennifer is also an award-winning banjo player).
A husband-wife duo, they began performing together in 1997 as the McLains with Michael’s brother Raymond. Raymond departed the band in 2000.
Michael was a member of the McLain Family Band, Sam Hill (which later morphed into Crucial Smith), Claire Lynch and the Front Porch String Band. He was also a music instructor at Belmont University.
Jennifer is an accomplished session musician and vocalist, and she also holds a masters degree in counseling.
Michael and Jennifer also perform with a group called The Banjocats.

McLain, Raymond W.

Posted on December 12, 2013August 12, 2023 by WR

RAYMOND W. MCLAIN

From Berea, Kentucky.
1969-1989 performed with his family, The McLain Family Band.
1990-1997, played banjo with Jim and Jesse McReynolds.
1992, released solo project A Place of My Own (Flying Fish).
1995, released “Kentucky Mountain Banjo” album (Country Life).
1997, formed a group with his brother Michael and Michael’s wife Jennifer called The McLains.
2000, joined the music faculty of East Tennesse State University (he was formerly on the faculty of Belmont University in Nashville, teaching music.)
2005, recorded an album of duets Old Time Mojo with Canadian harmonica player Mike Stevens.
2010, left ETSU to become director of the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music at Morehead State University in Kentucky, replacing Don Rigsby.
2022, retired from his position at Morehead State to return to writing and performing with the McLain Family Band.

McLaughlin, David

Posted on December 11, 2013February 6, 2016 by WR

DAVID MCLAUGHLIN

From the Washington D.C. area; lives in Winchester, Virginia.
Known as one of the top Monroe-style mandolin players in bluegrass. He is the younger brother of guitarist Peter McLaughlin.
1978, worked with the Johnson Mountain Boys, first playing fiddle, then switching to mandolin. Also worked with Patent Pending.
1990, worked with the Lynn Morris Band.
1993, formed a duo with guitarist Josh Crowe of the Crowe Brothers. They released one album Going Back (Rounder).
2003, formed a band with David and Linda Lay called Springfield Exit.
He is also an innkeeper. Runs a bed and breakfast in Winchester called the Nancy Shepherd House.
He is also a justice of the peace.

McLaughlin, Peter

Posted on December 9, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

PETER MCLAUGHLIN

From the Washington D.C. area; lives in Tucson, Arizona.
A guitarist, he is the older brother of former Johnson Mountain Boy, David McLaughlin.
1983, moved to Tucson and played in a band with Ross Nickerson called the Titan Valley Warheads.
1988, won the National Guitar Championship at Winfield, Kansas.
1991, worked with Laurie Lewis and Grant Street.
1996, recorded solo project The Cliffs of Vermilion (Dog Boy).
1996, formed the The Frog Mountain Trio (Tucson).
2000, joined Chris Brashear and the Perfect Strangers.

McMillan , Roy

Posted on August 8, 2020August 8, 2020 by WR

ROY MCMILLAN (AND THE HIGH COUNTRY BOYS)

From Lewisville, North Carolina (originally from Carroll County, Virginia)
Learned to play mandolin from age 8.
1950, moved to Winston-Salem, NC and worked as a cook and auto repairman.
1960, joined Larry Richardson and the Blue Ridge Boys.
1965, joined the Wandering Valley Boys.
1968, joined the Blue Ridge Partners.
1970, formed the High Country Boys (Grady Bullins (guitar), Audine Lineberry (bass), Ray Edwards (banjo), Carl Joyner (fiddle) and McMillan (mandolin).
1972, released High Country album (Rebel).
1973, released Up in the High Country album (Rebel).
1975, released Time to Think album (Rebel).
McMillan wrote many songs, many of which have been covered by other artists. His song “Wandering in the Darkness” was recorded by the Lonesome River Band as “When You Go Out Walking” on their One Step Ahead album and was nominated for Song of the Year by the IBMA in 1996.

McMurray, Josh

Posted on December 8, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

JOSH MCMURRAY

From Church Hill, Tennessee; lives in Nashville.
Began playing banjo at age 13.
1998, joined Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers (age 18 at the time).
2003, released first solo project Pickin Time (Copper Creek).
2007, left Larry Sparks band to become a Nashville sideman. He has since worked with Leon Russell, Marty Stuart, Vince Gill, Curly Seckler and Charlie Sizemore.

McPeak Brothers, The

Posted on December 8, 2013August 4, 2020 by WR

THE MCPEAK BROTHERS

From Wytheville, Virginia.
Original band formed in 1963, with Udell, Larry and Dewey McPeak. Udell dropped out in 1966 and the youngest McPeak brother, Michael took his place.
1974, discovered by country music star Mel Tillis, who arranged for them to record an album called “Bluegrass at its Peak” on RCA Records.
1993, after several years of inactivity, the McPeak Brothers came out of retirement. They recorded “You Won’t Ever Forget Me” album (no label) and began performing again.
1996, released Pathway to Heaven album (Copper Creek).
1997, released Acoustic Masterpiece album (Major).
1998, Larry McPeak formed The VW Boys with Tim White and Dave Vaught.
2009, Udell passed away..
2014, Larry died after a long illness.
2014, Michael’s son Adam (age 17) formed a new band called Adam McPeak and Mountain Thunder. Adam plays mandolin.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Yesteryears: Best of the Mcpeak Brothers (Rebel)
Bottom Line (Rebel)
Classic Bluegrass (Rebel)
Mcpeak Brothers (Rebel)

McNeely, Larry

Posted on December 8, 2013March 30, 2024 by WR

LARRY MCNEELY

From LaFayette, Indiana.
Began his career playing banjo with Charlie Collins and the original Pinnacle Mountain Boys, a Tennessee group.
Age 17, he and Collins landed a job playing banjo and guitar respectively with Roy Acuff and the Smoky Mountain Boys on the Grand Ole Opry. He lost his job with Acuff because his Scruggs-style playing didn’t fit Roy Acuff’s mountain-style music.
1969, moved to Los Angeles and replaced John Hartford as Glen Campbell’s banjo player on the CBS-TV show “The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour.”
He became well-known for his mastery of the chromatic or melodic-style banjo technique originated by Bill Keith.
1971, released Glen Campbell Presents Larry McNeely (Capitol).
While in LA, he formed The Larry McNeely Band.
As a session musician, he worked with the Smothers Brothers, Mac Davis, Barbara Mandrell and many others. He also played banjo on the soundtrack to the TV show “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
1976, released Rhapsody For Banjo album (Flying Fish).
1977, released “Live at McCabe’s” (Takoma).
1978, released Confederation album (Flying Fish).
1980, released Power Play album (Flying Fish).
1984, formed a newgrass band called Southern Manor.
1985, moved back to Nashville and again joined Acuff’s Smoky Mountain Boys until Acuff’s death in 1992, mostly playing guitar.
1992-1995, worked with The Wood Brothers at Opryland USA.
Retired from music and moved to North Carolina. He worked as an accountant and also in the antique business.
2013, moved back to Nashville. As a hobby, he has been writing unpublished novels.

McPeake, Curtis

Posted on December 8, 2013February 23, 2021 by WR

CURTISS MCPEAKE

From Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. He was born in Scotts Hill, Tennessee.
Best known as an early banjo virtuoso who played with Bill Monroe, Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper, Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass and other bands. He also appeared on recordings by such artists as The McCormick Brothers, George Jones & Melba Montgomery, Chubby Wise, Wade Ray, Wayne Raney, Hylo Brown, Leon Payne, Curly Fox & Texas Ruby, The Willis Brothers, C.W. McCall and many others.
1956, he subbed for Earl Scruggs in the Foggy Mountain Boys when Earl was injured in an automobile accident.
Owned a music shop in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee called “McPeake’s Unique Instruments.”
1960-61, played with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1960-1969, he was the staff banjo player for the Grand Ole Opry.
1966, he invented a 10-stringed banjo (doubling the strings on a regular five-string banjo).
1969-1987, played banjo with Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass.
1987, formed his own band The Natchez Express.
2018, received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA.
2018, released “The Good Times Outweigh the Bad” album (Swift River Music).
2021, died at the age of 93.

Meadow Mountain

Posted on September 13, 2019September 13, 2019 by WR

MEADOW MOUNTAIN

From Denver, Colorado.
Formed in 2015 by Summers Baker (guitar), Jack Dunlevie (mandolin), Ian Parker (fiddle), George Guthrie (banjo) and Wilson Luallen (bass).
2017, won the Rockygrass Band Contest.
They have given a TED Talk on the history of bluegrass.
They worked on a cruise ship as the house band.
2018, Sam Armstrong-Zickenfoos joined the band (banjo).
2018, released self-titled album (TapeTime), produced by Chris Pandolfi of the Infamous Stringdusters.

Mellons, Ken

Posted on December 8, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

KEN MELLONS

From Nashville. Born in Kingsport, Tennessee.
1993, signed with Epic Records and had a hit single “Jukebox Junkie.” Later recorded for Curb Records.
Has written songs recorded by Willie Nelson, Deirks Bentley, George Jones, Hank Williams, Jr., Mark Chesnutt, other country artists.
2009, released a bluegrass album Rural Route (no label) with special guests Sonya Isaacs, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent and other notable bluegrass artists.

Melton, Buddy

Posted on December 8, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

BUDDY MELTON

From Haywood County, North Carolina.
Began playing fiddle while in college (Western Carolina University).
1995, played with a gospel group called Rock Springs Reunion. Marc Pruett (formerly with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder) was also in this band.
After Rock Springs Reunion, worked with a country band called Jubal Foster (named for a moonshiner in an Andy Griffith episode).
2007, released a self-titled solo project with guest musicians Tony Rice, Marc Pruett, Adam Steffey, Tim Surrett and others.
2008, formed Balsam Range with Marc Pruett and Tim Surrett.
2012, was seriously injured in a freak farm accident when he was kicked in the face while loading cattle. He required facial reconstruction surgery from which he quickly recovered. He was back on stage performing with Balsam Range a month later.
2014, won the IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
2016, released a duet album with songwriter Milan Miller “Secrets, Dreams and Pretty Things” (no label).

Menzone, Dan

Posted on April 30, 2016October 9, 2018 by WR

DAN MENZONE

From Dudley, Massachusetts.
A banjo player who spent 19 years with Traver Hollow (1983-2002).
He refers to his banjo style as “crackling banjo.”
He has since worked with the Connecticut band Truegrass, Gail Wade & Turning Point and Zink & Company.
2005, released solo project Menzone Drive (no label), produced by Wyatt Rice.
2009, released second album Frostbite (no label), also produced by Wyatt Rice.
2016, teamed up with Wyatt Rice to release Something Out of the Blue album (Mountain Fever).

Merle Monroe

Posted on May 22, 2019December 9, 2021 by WR

MERLE MONROE / THE TIM RAYBON BAND

From Nashville.
Formed in 2018 by Tim Raybon (guitar) and Daniel Grindstaff (banjo). Band members include: Jayd Raines (bass), Stephen Burwell (fiddle), Eli Johnston (bass), Nick Chandler (mandolin), Gary Hultman (Dobro), Derek Deakins (fiddle), Jason Burleson (mandolin) and Josh Dosh (guitar).
Their band name is a blend of Merle Haggard and Bill Monroe.
Raybon is the brother of Marty Raybon (Shenandoah) and performed with him as the Raybon Brothers. They had a hit record in 1997 with “Butterfly Kisses.”
Grindstaff has worked with Jim and Jesse as well as the Osborne Brothers on the Grand Ole Opry. He has also worked with Marty Raybon’s band Full Circle.
Besides music, Raybon and Grindstaff are both businessmen. Tim has a real estate agency in Nashville, and Daniel owns an insurance agency in Elizabethton, TN.
2019, released Back to the Country album (Pinecastle).
2021, changed the name of the band to The Tim Raybon Band.

Merriam, Buddy

Posted on December 8, 2013June 18, 2016 by WR

BUDDY MERRIAM (AND BACK ROADS)

From Sound Beach, New York (Long Island).
A musical instrument repairman by trade. (Has a college degree in Musical Instrument Technology.)
Formed his own band Back Roads in 1980. Has also worked with the Sykes Brothers, the Fox Family Band, the Berkshire Mountains Festival Band, and others.
Turning point in his life: met Bill Monroe at 1976 Berkshire Mountains Bluegrass Festival (the first he ever attended) and was struck by lightning at the same festival. He was hit in the neck and thrown ten feet in the air. His heart and lungs stopped and both eardrums were punctured. He was revived and while recuperating in the hospital, Monroe called him to wish him well. They later became friends.
1991, began hosting a radio program called “Blue Grass Time” (WUSB-FM, Long Island, NY).
1994, released “Mystery Train” album (Lily Pad).
2009, released Back Roads Mandolin album (Lily Pad).
He also performs with mandolinist Greg Butler in a group called Buddy Merriam’s Mandolin Experience.
2015, was inducted into the Long Island Music Hall of Fame.

Messer, J.D.

Posted on December 8, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

J. D. MESSER & SANCTIFIED

From Kermit, West Virginia.
A gospel group featuring John D. Messer (mandolin), Kenny Stanley (guitar), Jerry Sturgell (resophonic guitar), Brent Amburgey (banjo), Kayla Amburgey (bass) and Albon Clevenger (fiddle).
Messer and Clevenger were formerly with 5 for the Gospel, Cumberland Gap Connection.
Clevenger previously worked with the Lost and Found, Dave Evans and River Bend.
2013, released first album Coal Miner’s Prayer (Kindred).
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Meyer, Johnny (Meyerband)

Posted on December 9, 2020August 14, 2024 by WR

MEYER BAND (JOHNNY MEYER)

From Sheldon, Missouri (near Joplin); moved to Nashville in 2014.
A family band featuring four siblings, Johnny (banjo), David (guitar), Mary (mandolin) and Jim (bass).
2009, won the Youth in Bluegrass competition at Silver Dollar City.
2013, won the SPBGMA International Band Contest in Nashville.
2014, Johnny began working with the Clay Hess Band.
2015, Johnny took the banjo position with the Band of Ruhks.
2019, Mary began working with the Theo and Brenna Band. Johnny began touring with the Jimmy Fortune Band.
2020, Johnny recorded a solo project and began performing as Johnny Meyer and Friends, appearing regularly at the Station Inn during the pandemic (live streamed).
2022, Mary joined Sister Sadie, playing mandolin.
2023, Johnny moved back to Missouri and has been collaborating with Mo Pitney, co-writing and performing together. They released a single “That Sounds Lonesome” under the name Pitney Meyer (2024).

Meyer, Liz

Posted on December 8, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

LIZ MEYER

From Washington D.C.
For more than a decade (70’s and 80’s) she was a very popular Washington D.C. area bluegrass, folk and country artist with her own band.
1987, went to Holland on tour and while there married Peter Groenveld, owner of Strictly Country Records. She moved to the Netherlands and after having her first child, became a full-time mom.
1995, began performing and recording again with her band Big City Bluegrass.
1998-2003, performed in a duo with guitarist Mark Cosgrove.
Toured with the Austrian group Nugget, the Berlin-based Hot String Quartet, and the Czech band Fragment.
She has recorded several albums accompanied by such musicians as Ron Block, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, Bela Fleck, Byron Berline, David Parmley and Emmylou Harris.
2005, released album The Storm (Strictly Country).
2011, died after a ten-year battle with breast cancer.

Michael, Walt

Posted on December 8, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

WALT MICHAEL

From Westminster, Maryland.
Formerly performed with Bottle Hill.
One of the top hammered dulcimer players in the U.S.
His band Walt Michael and Company performs bluegrass, old time, Celtic, folk and New Age music.
Performed for the closing ceremonies of the 13th Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.
He is on the faculty of McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland.
2009, released Step Stone album (Flying Fish).
2015, released Hammered Dulcimer: Retrospective album (Flying Fish).

Middle Spunk Creek Boys

Posted on December 8, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

MIDDLE SPUNK CREEK BOYS

From Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota.
There actually is a Middle Spunk Creek near Minneapolis, after which the band was named.
Formed in 1968 by Alan Jesperson, the only remaining member of the original band.
Performed on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion” radio show.
Peter Ostroushko is a former member of this group.
1976, released first album “Middle Spunk Creek Boys” (no label)
1997, released “I’m With the Band” album (Okey Dokey).
1999, released No One Else album (Okey Dokey).
2000, released Table For One album (Okey Dokey).
2002, released House of Gold album (Okey Dokey).
2007, they were inducted into the Minnesota Rock and Country Music Hall of Fame.

Midnight Skyracer

Posted on June 7, 2020June 22, 2023 by WR

MIDNIGHT SKYRACER

From England and Northern Ireland.
An Anglo-Irish, all-female band formed in 2017 by Leanne Thorose (mandolin), Charlotte Carrivick (guitar), Laura Carrivick (fiddle and reso-guitar), Eleanor Wilkie (bass), and Tabitha Benedict (banjo).
2018, released Fire album (no label)
2019, Tabitha Benedict (formerly Agnew) married David Benedict (mandolinist with Mile Twelve). She also plays banjo with another British band called Cup O’Joe.
2020, released Shadows on the Moon album (Island).
2020, Tabitha Benedict (formerly Agnew) received the IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.

Mighty Poplar

Posted on February 3, 2024 by WR

MIGHTY POPLAR

From Nashville & other locations.
A band formed in 2020 by Noam Pikelny (banjo), Chris Eldridge (guitar), Greg Garrison (bass), Andrew Marlin (mandolin) and Alex Hargreaves (fiddle). Pikelny and Eldridge are also in the Punch Brothers. Garrison is in Leftover Salmon. Marlin is in Mandolin Orange and Hargreaves is in Billy Strings.
They decided to form this band so that they could perform more traditional bluegrass.
How they got their name: On a live recording by Bill Monroe and Doc Watson, after performing the song “What Will You Give in Exchange for Your Soul,” Bill remarked to Doc that the song as recorded by himself and his brother Charlie had been “mighty poplar” down in the Carolinas.
2023, released first album Mighty Poplar (Nonesuch). It was nominated for a Grammy award in 2024.

Milbillies, The

Posted on November 1, 2023 by WR

THE MILBILLIES

From Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Formed in 2018 by Joe Wais (fiddle), Eben Flood (guitar), Matt Brey (mandolin), Dan Shaw (banjo) and Pat Zimmer (bass.)
2020, voted Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) New Artist of the Year.
2022, won the John Hartford Memorial Festival band contest.
2022, released self-titled album (no label).
2023, released Capital B album (no label).

Mile Twelve

Posted on September 21, 2017July 16, 2024 by WR

MILE TWELVE

From Boston, Massachusetts.
Formed in 2014 by Evan Murphy (guitar), Bronwyn Keith-Hynes (fiddle), Nate Sabat (bass), BB Bowness (banjo) and David Benedict (mandolin).
Their name comes from a 12-mile marker that the band passes on the highway at the city limits of Boston. “It has become a signpost for our musical adventures when we’re leaving town or coming home.”
Murphy is the only Boston native (from Milton, Massachusetts).
2017, released their first album Onward (no label). produced by Stephen Mougin.
2017, won the IBMA’s Momentum Award for Band of the Year.
2019, released City on a Hill album (Delores the Taurus), produced by Bryan Sutton.
2019, banjo player and native New Zealander BB Bowness became a naturalized citizen of the United States.
2020, won the IBMA Award for New Artist of the Year.
2021, fiddler Keith-Hynes won the IBMA Award for Fiddle Player of the Year.
2021, Benedict and Keith-Hynes left the band and were replaced by Ella Jordan (fiddle) and Korey Brodsky (mandolin).
2024, released Instant Lonesome and the Twinkle Brigade album (Don Giovanni) with singer/songwriter Jody Stecher.

Miller, Josh

Posted on February 23, 2022November 13, 2024 by WR

JOSH MILLER

From Spring City, Tennessee.
A multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter who has worked with several bands and as a solo artist.
2004-2005, played banjo with The Lovell Sisters.
2005-2008, played banjo with Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain.
2008-2014, played banjo with Newfound Road until the group disbanded.
As a songwriter, he has written songs that have been recorded by IIIrd Tyme Out, the Highland Travelers, the Darrell Webb Band, Volume Five and others.
He also works in the field of software.
2022, released first single as a solo artist “County Wishing Well” (no label).

Millsaps, Bill and Wilma

Posted on December 8, 2013 by WR

BILL AND WILMA MILLSAPS

From Robbinsville, North Carolina.
Bill is a distant relative of Daniel Boone. He previously worked with Carl Story, Kenny Baker and Josh Graves
Began performing together shortly after their marriage in 1967.
1969, formed The Snowbird Mountain Boys, then the Snowbird Mountain Trio.
Snowbird Mountain is an actual mountain on the North Carolina-Tennessee state line (just below the Smokies).

Miller, Milan

Posted on April 26, 2014December 12, 2015 by WR

MILAN MILLER

From Waynesville, North Carolina. Moved to Nashville in 1999.
A multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. Songwriting credits include Caney Fork River and Papertown by Balsam Range, Pretty Little Girl From Galax by Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out, and Terry Baucom’s What’ll I Do.
2013, released solo project Poison Cove (no label)
2014, released single “The Man from Valdese,” a tribute to George Shuffler.

Mills, Jim

Posted on December 8, 2013May 6, 2024 by WR

JIM MILLS

From Raleigh, North Carolina.
Has been playing banjo all his life (says he can’t remember not playing the banjo.)
After high school, joined Summer Wages with Barry Berrier.
1988-1993, worked with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1993, was the shipping manager for Sugar Hill Records.
1994-1997, worked with the Bass Mountain Boys.
1997-2010, worked with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
1998, released Bound To Ride album (Sugar Hill).
1999, won IBMA award for “Instrumental Recording of the Year” (“Bound to Ride”).
2002, released My Dixie Home album (Sugar Hill).
2005, released Hide Head Blues album (Sugar Hill).
2006, won his sixth IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year (also won in 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003 and 2005).
2010, left Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder to work full time as a collector and dealer of vintage pre-war Gibson banjos. He owns the Jim Mill Banjo Showroom in Durham, North Carolina.
2024, died at the age of 57 (heart attack).

Mindte, Tom

Posted on June 17, 2016May 22, 2019 by WR

TOM MINDTE

From Washington, D.C.
Plays mandolin with a group called Patuxent Partners.
He is the owner of Patuxent Records.
As a mandolin player, he has been heavily influenced by Buzz Busby and Frank Wakefield, as well as Bill Monroe.
2013, released Something I’ve Been Working On album (Patuxent).
2018, released Tom Mindte and Mason Via album (Patuxent).
2019, released 409 album with Mason Via (guitar) and Ben Somerville (bass).

Mipso

Posted on March 11, 2014October 16, 2020 by WR

MIPSO

From Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Formed in 2010 by Jacob Sharp (mandolin), Joseph Terrell (guitar) and Wood Robinson (bass). All three are graduates of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. They are often joined by Libby Rodenbough on fiddle.
Their name (Mipso) has no meaning other than it’s original with the band.
Terrell and Robinson previously played together in a funk-rock cover band called Funkasaurus Rex.
2012, released Long, Long Gone album (EMR).
2013, released album Dark Holler Pop (Robust).
2015, released Old Time Reverie album (Robust).
2020, released self-titled album (Rounder).

Misty Mountain String Band

Posted on January 29, 2017 by WR

THE MISTY MOUNTAIN STRING BAND

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Formed in 2012.
An old-time string band featuring Neal Green (fiddle), Derek Harris (bass, vocals), Paul Martin (banjo, mandolin, vocals) and Brian Vickers (guitar).
2013, released Went to the Well album (no label).
2014, released Brownsboro album (no label).
2016, released Red Horizon album (no label).

Mitchell, Mike

Posted on November 3, 2018November 3, 2018 by WR

MIKE MITCHELL

From Floyd, Virginia; He was born in Canada.
He is a singer, songwriter and music teacher who performs as a solo artist and also with his Mike Mitchell Band.
His primary instrument is fiddle, but he plays all the bluegrass instruments.
2005, founded the Floyd Music School and teaches there; it occupies the same building that formerly housed County Sales, the famous mail-order business run by Bluegrass Hall of Famer Dave Freeman.
2018, released album “Small Town” (no label).

Mitchell, Patty

Posted on December 8, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

PATTY MITCHELL

From Perrin, Texas (moved to Nashville in 1999).
Began singing and recording at age seven.
Early 1990’s, played bass and mandolin with the Dixie Chicks when they won the band contest at Telluride.
Recorded for Electra Records with her trio “The Domestic Science Club.”
Was a founding member of the band Red Oak.
Sang the National Anthem at World Cup Soccer matches.
Sang with Ralph Stanley on his “Clinch Mountain Sweethearts” album, with Emmylou Harris on her “Caught in the Web” album, and with Gail Davies on her “Live and Unplugged at the Station Inn” album.
2003, recorded solo project These Are the Good Old Days (no label).

Mitterhof, Barry

Posted on December 8, 2013April 12, 2016 by WR

BARRY MITTERHOFF

From New York City. Lives in Scotch Plains, New Jersey.
Began playing bluegrass while at Rutgers University. Formed a band called Bottle Hill.
Has played mandolin with Tony Trischka and Skyline, Peter Rowan and Tex Logan, the Lynn Morris Band.
Has also performed with the New York City Ballet and the Metropolitan Opera.
1998, joined Chris Jones’ band, the Night Drivers.
2002, joined Hot Tuna featuring Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Cassidy (formerly with rock band Jefferson Airplane).
Also has a band called the Klezmer Cowboys (combining country/bluegrass music with Jewish Klezmer music from Europe.)
2016, was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the New York Folk Festival.

Miyazaki, Katsuyuki

Posted on December 8, 2013December 12, 2015 by WR

KATSUYUKI MIYAZAKI

From Kyoto, Japan.
Most people call him “Katsu.”
One of Japan’s top mandolin players. Has won many awards in Japan for his playing, including Moonshiner magazine’s Mandolin Player of the Year award (1988).
1985, formed a group in Japan called Birdland.
1988-1989, hosted a bluegrass radio show in Kyoto.
1991 and 1996, placed third at the U.S. National Mandolin Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
1997, released Man-O-Mandolin album (Grave) and toured with a band including Ronnie McCoury, Rickie Simpkins, Richard Bailey and Gene Libbea.

Molasses Creek

Posted on December 8, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

MOLASSES CREEK

From North Carolina.
Formed in 1993.
Live on a tiny island 23 miles off the coast of North Carolina (Ocracoke Island). They own and operate Deepwater Theatre, performing there June-September.
Tour under the auspices of the North Carolina Performing Arts Council.
Band includes Gary Mitchell (guitar), Dave Tweedie (fiddle), Marcy Brenner (mandolin), Lou Castro (Dobro™), Gerald Hampton (bass).
1998, their album Citybound (no label) reached #1 on the European Country Music charts.
2001, released The Best of Molasses Creek: 1993-2000 album (no label).
2014, released Something Worth Having album (Soundside).

Molsky, Bruce

Posted on December 8, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

BRUCE MOLSKY

From Ithica, New York.
Began playing guitar at age 10. Added banjo and fiddle to his repertoire during his teen years. He is best known as a fiddler.
He is a regular instructor at Mark O’Connor Fiddle Camp, Rocky Mountain Fiddle Camp, Alasdair Fraser’s Valley of the Moon and Sierra Fiddle Camps, Swannanoa Gathering, and others.
1973, went the Galax Fiddler’s Convention and heard old-time music for the first time. Got hooked.
Attended Cornell University, became a mechanical engineer.
1994, performed with “Fiddles on Fire,” a national tour.
2003, performed and recorded with “Fiddlers 4” with Darol Anger, Michael Doucet and Rushad Eggleston.
2004, released solo project Poor Man’s Troubles on Rounder Records which won a 2001 “Indie” award for Best Traditional Folk Recording
2006, toured with “Highlands, Heath and Holler” with Martin Hayes & Alasdair Fraser.
2006, released Soon Be Time album (Compass).
2007, he is also part of an international musical ensemble called “Mosaic.”
2013, released If It Ain’t Here When I Get Back album (no label).
2015, released Lost Boy album (Rounder).

Monroe Crossing

Posted on December 8, 2013October 31, 2018 by WR

MONROE CROSSING

From the Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul), Minnesota.
Formed in 2000 by members of “The Pretty Good Bluegrass Band”, “Big Skyota” and “The Deadly Nightshade Family Singers.”
One of the few full-time bluegrass bands in Minnesota.
Members: Art Blackburn (guitar), Matt Thompson (mandolin), Graham Sones (banjo), Mark Anderson (bass), Lisa Fuglie (fiddle).
2001, released Across the Blue Mountains album (no label).
2002, released “Then Sings My Soul” album (no label).
2003, won Best Female Vocalist, Best Guitar, Best Mandolin and Best Banjo from the Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association at their 25th Anniversary Awards Banquet.
2003, received the Minnesota Music Academy’s Bluegrass Album of the Year Award, and was one of only six artists statewide (and the first Bluegrass band EVER) to be nominated as Artist of the Year
2007, released Live From Silver Dollar City album (no label).
2007, inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame.
2007, released The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass (Clarion) the first catholic mass to be recorded in a bluegrass style.
2011, rleased their 11th album Plays the Music of Bill Monroe with band members Lisa Fuglie (fiddle), Matt Thompson (mandolin), Mark Anderson (bass), Benji Flaming (banjo) and Derek Johnson (guitar).
2012, released Joy Joy Joy album (no label).
2012, released “The Road Has No End” album (no label).
2018, released their 15th album Monroe Crossing Plays Classic Country (no label).

Monroe, Bill

Posted on December 8, 2013November 13, 2020 by WR

BILL MONROE (AND THE BLUE GRASS BOYS)

From Rosine, Kentucky.
Born September 13, 1911. Died September 9, 1996.
Full name: William Smith Monroe.
He is known as the Father of Bluegrass Music.
Mentors: “Uncle Pen” (Pendleton) Vandiver, a fiddler; and Arnold Schultz, a African-American guitarist and fiddler whom Monroe credits with inspiring the blues in bluegrass.
Began playing music when he was eight years old. His brothers and sisters played fiddles and guitars, and Bill wanted to do the same. But since he was the youngest, he was given the mandolin.Lived with his Uncle Pen Vandiver (his mother’s brother) after his parents died (they both died before Bill was 17). He learned fiddle music from him.
1929, at age 18, began performing with his brothers Birch and Charlie in east Chicago, while working at the Sinclair refinery (during the Great Depression.)
1934, formed “The Monroe Brothers,” a duo with his brother Charlie. Signed by on RCA Victor’s “Bluebird” label and made first record on February 17, 1936.
1938, moved to Little Rock, Arkansas and formed “The Kentuckians.” Later moved to Atlanta and formed “The Blue Grass Boys,” named after the nickname of his home state.
1939, auditioned for the Grand Ole Opry and was hired on the spot.
First song sung on the Grand Ole Opry: “The Muleskinner Blues.”
1940’s, traveled with a professional baseball team that played local semi-pro teams in exhibition games preceding the concert.
Experimented with various musicians during the early 40’s, including an accordian player and a clawhammer style banjo played by David “Stringbean” Akeman.
1945, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs joined Monroe’s band and bluegrass music as we know it today was born. Other members of the original “bluegrass” band: Chubby Wise on fiddle, and Howard Watts on bass.
The only bluegrass artist to have remained with a major record label throughout his career. He began on RCA, but switched to Columbia Records in 1945 because he didn’t want to be on the same label with his brother, Charlie. In 1950, he switched again to Decca (now MCA) because he didn’t want to be on the same label with Flatt and Scruggs who left his band to form their own. While he did not record new material during the latter part of his life, MCA claims that he was still with their label until his death in 1996.
1951, purchased the Brown County Jamboree in Bean Blossom, Indiana and hosted bluegrass festivals there beginning in 1967.
1966, was made an honorary Kentucky Colonel.
1970, was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
1981, survived a bout with cancer.
1986, U.S. Senate passed a resolution recognizing and honoring Monroe’s contribution to American music.
1989, was awarded the first Grammy Award in the newly-created Bluegrass category (for his album Southern Flavor).
1991, had double heart bypass surgery.
1991, inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (then known as the Hall of Honor.) Monroe is considered the Hall’s first inductee although Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs were inducted that same year.
1993, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from NARAS (National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences) at the Grammy Awards—the highest honor that can be presented to a recording artist.
1995, awarded the National Medal of the Arts by President Clinton at the White House.
1996, died of complications from a stroke (September 9) just 3 days short of his 85th birthday.
1997, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.
Last recording of an original song: “The Days Gone By” (on his 1988 Southern Flavor
album).
Last recording session: Feb. 21, 1996, sang harmony on an album by Billy and Terry Smith: Bill Monroe Tribute (K-Tel Records).
Last live performance: The Friday night Opry, March 15, 1996. He sang “True Life Blues.”

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Music of Bill Monroe From 1936-1994 (MCA) This is a 4-CD set featuring highlights from Monroe’s entire career. A wonderful overview of his musical legacy.
The Very Best Of Bill Monroe And His Blue Grass Boys (MCA Nashville) A nice sampling of Monroe’s hits (22 cuts on one CD).
Anthology (MCA Nashville) A 2-CD set with another good selection of Monroe classics.

Monroe, Charlie

Posted on December 8, 2013December 14, 2015 by WR

CHARLIE MONROE

From Rosine, Kentucky.
The older brother of Bill Monroe. (According to Sam Bush, that makes him the “uncle” of bluegrass.)
1934-1938, Bill and Charlie recorded and performed as the Monroe Brothers. Their biggest hit for was “What Would You Give In Exchange for Your Soul?” (RCA Victor).
1938, after Bill left to form The Blue Grass Boys, Charlie formed The Kentucky Partners and remained very popular, performing on radio stations all over the south. Made over 120 recordings on RCA Victor and Decca Records. Lester Flatt and his wife Gladys (aka Bobbie Jean) were members of The Kentucky Partners before Lester teamed up with Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs in 1945.
1960, retired from music.
Died in 1975.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

What Would You Give in Exchange for Your Soul (Rounder) A good collection of their biggest hits.

Monroe, James

Posted on December 8, 2013December 14, 2015 by WR

JAMES MONROE (AND THE MIDNIGHT RAMBLERS)

From Rosine, Kentucky.
Son of Bill Monroe.
Began his musical career as bass player for the Blue Grass Boys in 1964. Became lead singer and guitarist in 1969.
1971, formed his own band, The Midnight Ramblers.
After his father’s death in 1996, James oversaw the Monroe Estate including Monroe Talent Enterprises. He also produced the Bill Monroe Memorial Festival held in Rosine, Kentucky.
2003, released The Way I Am album (no label).

Monroeville

Posted on December 8, 2013February 19, 2020 by WR

MONROEVILLE

From Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Formed in 2010. Most of this band had been the nucleus of Barry Scott’s band “Second Wind.”
Original band: Matt (AKA “Scooter”) Munsey (mandolin), Daniel Salyer (bass), Travis Houck (resonator guitar), Zane Petty (banjo), Seth Taylor (guitar) and Matt Flake (fiddle.)
2010, appeared on the Today show (NBC). How it happened: NBC sent correspondent Jenna Wolfe to shoot a piece on the Ole Smoky Distillery in Gatlinburg, TN, the first to offer lawful moonshine whiskey since Tennessee allowed counties to approve legal distilleries last year. Monroeville performs there on occasion, and were on hand for the NBC taping.
2012, won the first IBMA “Momentum” Award in the band category.
2013, after numerous personnel changes, settled into a three-piece band featuring original member Munsey, Rachel “Mayo” Mayanavic (fiddle/vocals) and Carl “Carebear” White (electric bass).
2014, band members are: Munsey (mandolin), Matt Fox (guitar), Andy Ruff (resonator guitar) and McCoy Borg (banjo).
2014, released Can’t Put Me Out album (no label).
2018, released World’s Apart album (no label).
2019, released Momentum album (no label).
2020 lineup: Munsey (mandolin), Borg (banjo/guitar), Chevy Watson (guitar) and Kyle Dillow (bass), Evan Pitchers (drums).

Mooney, Frances

Posted on December 7, 2013December 23, 2019 by WR

FRANCES MOONEY

From Northern Georgia
1975, played bass in The Bluegrass Generation,” a Louisville, Kentucky band.
1978, formed Cherokee Rose, an all-female bluegrass band.
1981, formed Indian Summer, an award-winning band which toured China in 1990.
1998, formed Fontanna Sunset with Louisa Branscomb, an award-winning songwriter.
2009, won IBMA award for her work on the Daughters of Bluegrass project (Recorded Event of the Year).
2010, Frances Mooney & Fontanna Sunset released “I Didn’t See It Coming” album on Blue Circle Records.
2019, released Heartache Hanging Round album (RonDale Records).

Moore, Charlie

Posted on December 7, 2013August 1, 2018 by WR

CHARLIE MOORE (AND HIS DIXIE PARTNERS)

From Piedmont, South Carolina; later, Richmond, Virginia.
Began performing at age 17 (1952) with his group The Dixie Partners
1960, formed a partnership with Bill Napier and performed as Moore and Napier throughout most of the sixties, recording several albums for King Records. They were famous for their truck driving songs which got heavy juke-box play.
1969, re-formed The Dixie Partners and recorded several more albums for Old Homestead and Leather Records.
As a songwriter, he is best known for songs like “Kentucky Girl” (recorded by Larry Sparks) and “The Legend of the Rebel Soldier” (recorded by the Country Gentlemen), a song based on the life of his great grandfather.
Had his own TV show in the Greenville-Spartanburg, SC region. Also was a country DJ.
1979, died at the age of 44.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Truckin’ Favorites (King)
Good Bluegrass & Gospel Favorites (Vetco)

Moore, John

Posted on December 7, 2013March 30, 2016 by WR

JOHN MOORE

From Vista, California (near San Diego). He lived for several years on Palomar Mountain, near the famous Observatory. In 1997, he moved to Colorado.
1973, as a 12-year-old he was in a kid band called The Pendleton Pickers with Stuart Duncan. They won a radio station talent contest and played the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
1980, formed a San Diego-based band with Dennis Caplinger called Bluegrass Etc. They have released three albums including Bluegrass Etc. (Tricopolis).
1990, joined the band California with Byron Berline, John Hickman, Dan Crary and Steve Spurgin.
He gave Chris Thile mandolin and guitar lessons.
He has performed on numerous movie soundtracks and television commercials.
Day job: he is a professional cowboy. He breaks and trains horses on ranches both in the US and abroad.

Moore, Nancy

Posted on December 7, 2013December 15, 2015 by WR

NANCY MOORE

From Crawfordville, Florida.
In high school, she played flute and oboe in her school band and was a drum major and band director. She started singing as a child in church.
Her big break came when she was introduced to Tom T. Hall at his Florida home on St. George Island. Her first album Local Flowers (Blue Circle) became a pet project for Tom T. and wife Dixie, as they wrote the songs and produced the album.

Moore, Russell

Posted on December 7, 2013October 1, 2019 by WR

RUSSELL MOORE (AND IIIRD TYME OUT)

From Pasadena, Texas. Lives in Cumming, Georgia.
First band: the Bluegrass Ramblers in Cleveland, Texas.
1983, formed Southern Connection in Arlington, Texas (with Scott Vestal).
1985, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver. Appeared on seven Doyle Lawson albums as lead singer.
1991, was a founding member of IIIrd Tyme Out.
2007, began performing as Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out.
2019, won his sixth IBMA award for Male Vocalist of the Year (also won in 1994, 1997, 2010, 2011, 2012).

Moore, Wayne

Posted on December 7, 2013December 15, 2015 by WR

WAYNE MOORE

Born in Livingston, Kentucky but spent most of his musical career in Southern California. Now lives in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.
A journeyman guitarist and singer who was part of the early “country-rock” music scene during the sixties. Worked with Clarence White, Gib Gilbeau, Gene Parsons, Vern Gosdin, Glen Campbell and other influential musicians of that era.
Has had a long relationship with famed record producer Gary Paxton.
Played in bands such as The Four Young Men (1959-1963), The Castaways (1963-1966), The New Hollywood Argyles (1966), Nashville West (also known as The Reasons 1967), The Gosdin Brothers (1969), The Flying Burrito Brothers (1971) and several others.
2001, released A Treasury Of American Railroad Songs And Ballads Vol 2. album (Shiloh).
2003, released Walk & Talk With Jesus album (Grace Mountain), on which he played all the bluegrass instruments and sang all the vocals.

Morris, Craig

Posted on December 7, 2013August 13, 2024 by WR

CRAIG MORRIS

From Alabama. Also lived in Spring Hill, Tennessee.
A banjo player, he had a recording studio and a band called Flashpoint.
1976-1984, played banjo on a local Birmingham, Alabama TV program called “The Country Boy Eddie Show.”
1981, worked with a band called Lickety Split.
1982, worked with The Warrior River Boys.
2000, moved to the Nashville area.
2010, released solo project of banjo tunes called Banjology (no label).
2014, released second solo project Twix N Tween (no label).
2024, died at the age of 70.

Morris, Leon

Posted on December 7, 2013December 16, 2015 by WR

LEON MORRIS

From the Washington DC area (Rockville, MD); originally from Canada.
Began performing in 1947. Plays all the bluegrass instruments and sings traditional bluegrass.
1960’s, worked and recorded with Buzz Busby, Frank Wakefield, Bill Emerson, David Grisman.
1974, released “Buzz Busby and Leon Morris” album (Rounder).
1970’s and 80’s, led a group called Leon Morris and the Bluegrass Associates, recording several albums now out of print.
2002, released Drifting with the Tide album (International).
2011, released Thinking Today Of My Home album (Patuxent).

Morris, Luke

Posted on January 11, 2019April 1, 2024 by WR

LUKE MORRIS

From Galax, Virginia.
Plays mandolin with a group called Shadowgrass.
Has been a student in the bluegrass music program at East Tennessee State University.
Teaches at the Galax JAM program at Chestnut Creek School of the Arts.
2018, at age 18 released his first solo project “Further Down the Line” (no label).

Morris, Lynn

Posted on December 7, 2013May 4, 2020 by WR

LYNN MORRIS

From Lamesa, Texas. Lives in Winchester, Virginia.
Learned to play guitar at age 12 from the same man who taught Buddy Holly to play.
Went to school in Colorado, and there began playing banjo in a bluegrass band. Her first professional gig was performing at a local McDonald’s restaurant for $10 a day.
Won the national banjo championship at Winfield, Kansas twice (1974 and 1981) while a member of the Denver-based group City Limits Bluegrass. She was the first person to win the Winfield banjo contest twice.
1980-1986, performed with a Pennsylvania band called Whetstone Run. Her future husband Marshall Wilborn was also in that band.
1987, worked for a short time with Laurie Lewis and Grant Street.
1988, formed the The Lynn Morris Band with husband Marshall Wilborn when the Johnson Mountain Boys broke up. Joining them in the band were banjo player Tom Adams and mandolinist David McLaughlin who had also been with the JMB.
Was the the first woman elected to the board of the IBMA.
Notable appearances: On the steps of the Library of Congress, the Grand Ole Opry, The Aladdin Hotel (Las Vegas), Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary.
An animal activist, she adopted many abandoned animals and was sponsored by SPAY/USA, an organization that provides affordable spay/neutering services for house pets.
1990, released The Lynn Morris Band album (Rounder).
1992, released The Bramble & the Rose album (Rounder).
1995, released Mama’s Hand album (Rounder).
1996, 1998, 1999, won “Female Vocalist of the Year” at the IBMA Awards.
1996, her recording of “Mama’s Hand” (by Hazel Dickens) was voted “Song of the Year” at the IBMA Awards.
1999, released You’ll Never Be the Sun album (Rounder).
2003, released Shape of a Tear album (Rounder).
2003, suffered a stroke following a knee operation that has affected her ability to sing and play.
2010, recieved a Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA.

Morrison, Harold

Posted on December 7, 2013October 2, 2018 by WR

HAROLD MORRISON

From High Lonesome, Missouri, near Springfield.
One of a long line of country performers to combine banjo virtuosity and country humor. He was also a versatile session musician who played banjo, guitar, pedal steel and Dobro™.
1953-1954, worked with Jimmy Gately at the WWVA Jamboree.
1955-1957, was a regular on Red Foley’s Ozark Jubilee.
1957, moved to Nashville to work with Johnny and Jack and Kitty Wells.
1965, released Hoss, He’s The Boss album (Decca) which included his classic novelty song “The Great Bicycle Wreck.”
He played banjo on Loretta Lynn’s hit single “Blue Kentucky Girl.”
1960’s, was a regular on the Wilburn Brothers TV show.
1969, worked with George Jones and Tammy Wynette.
1973, released “The Harold Morrison Show” album (GKG) with Billy Smith (guitar), Buddy Spicher (fiddle), Buck White (mandolin), Jerry Douglas (Dobro™) and Johnny Rice (bass).
1976, formed his own band called Smokin’ Bluegrass with his daughter Karla and Benny Williams.
1984, released Blue Grass Classics (Old Homestead) with his band The Maple Hill Boys.
1992, worked with Mac Wiseman in Branson, Missouri.
Died December 21, 1993.

Moses, Justin

Posted on December 7, 2013October 3, 2020 by WR

JUSTIN MOSES

From Madisonville, Tennessee. Lives in Nashville.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments.
After high school, played with a band called Kentucky Wind.
2000, formed Blue Moon Rising with Kentucky Wind bandmates Tim Tipton and Keith Garrett.
2005, joined Sierra Hull and Highway 111.
2006, re-joined Blue Moon Rising, playing Dobro™ and fiddle.
2006, released Dusty Roads album (DustyGrass).
2008, joined the Dan Tyminski Band.
2010, joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, replacing Jim Mills.
2014, left Ricky Skaggs to do studio work and to perform regularly with Sierra Hull.
2015, released Beyond Measure EP (no label).
2017, married Sierra Hull (May 14).
2018, joined Blue Highway to play resophonic guitar.
2018, won the IBMA Award for Dobro™ Player of the Year.
2019, he is featured in the Country Music Hall of Fame’s American Currents exhibit with his 2018 IBMA Dobro Player of the Year award and childhood mandolin on display.
2019, appeared on PBS TV Special “Ken Burns: A Celebration of Country Music” recorded live from the Ryman Auditorium. He played banjo and resophonic guitar.
2019, signed with Mountain Fever Records.
2020, won the IBMA Award for Resophonic Guitar Player of the Year.

Mosley, Daryl

Posted on April 9, 2020June 21, 2023 by WR

DARYL MOSLEY

From Waverly, Tennessee.
A singer/songwriter whose songs have been recorded by many bluegrass and country artists.
1988-2000, was a founding member of The New Tradition.
2001, joined the Osborne Brothers.
2010, was a founding member of The Farm Hands.
2020, left the Farm Hands to begin a solo career.
2020, released first solo album The Secret of Life (Pinecastle).
2021, released Small Town Dreamer album (Pinecastle).
2023, released A Life Well Lived album (Pinecastle).

Mougin, Stephen

Posted on January 20, 2014October 11, 2016 by WR

STEPHEN MOUGIN

From Joelton, Tennessee.
Has been playing bluegrass since the age of 6.
Has a degree in Vocal Music Education from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Nickname: Mojo.
Has played in bands with Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike, Jim Lauderdale, Melonie Cannon, Randy Kohrs, Audie Blaylock, others.
2006, joined the Sam Bush Band, playing lead guitar.
2007, married Jana Dolalova of the Czech band Fragment.
2009, started a record label called Dark Shadow Recording where he serves as producer and engineer.
2009, formed a duo with Ned Luberecki called “Nedski and Mojo.” Released a self-titled project in 2010.
2016, won the IBMA Momentum Award for Mentor of the Year.

Mountain Faith

Posted on December 7, 2013April 15, 2021 by WR

MOUNTAIN FAITH (SUMMER AND BRAY)

From Sylva, North Carolina.
A family bluegrass-gospel band featuring Summer McMahan (fiddle & lead vocals), Brayden McMahan (banjo), and their dad Sam McMahan (bass). Other band members: Luke Dotson (guitar) and Dustin Norris (mandolin).
McMahan is pronouned Mack-ma-HAN.
Paul Harrigill (of Flatt Lonesome) is a former member of this band.
2010, they worked with Barry Scott as his back-up band.
The family owns a filling station, tire shop (“High Country Tire”) and deli in Sylva, North Carolina. Members of the band work there during the week.
2011, released Battlefield (Mountain Home).
2014, released Blue (Mountain Fever), their first non-gospel album.
2014, Cory Piatt (mandolin) joined the band, replacing Dustin Norris.
2015, appeared on the TV show “America’s Got Talent!” and made it to the semi-final round of voting. They were also invited to perform at U.S. military bases in the Middle East and sing the national anthem at a Carolina Panthers NFL game.
2015, released That Which Matters album (Mountain Fever).
2015, added David Meyer (guitar/keyboards) to the band.
2016, guitarist Luke Dotson left the group. New members: Cory Piatt (mandolin), Jimmy Meyer (guitar) and Chris Wright (drums/percussion).
2016, David and Jimmy Meyer departed; guitarist Nick Dauphinais (of the Dauphinais Brothers) joined.
2016, made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry (September 16).
2017, changed their name to Summer Brooke and the Mountain Faith Band, a nod to their featured vocalist Summer Brooke McMahan.
2017, released Sounds of Christmas album (Mountain Fever).
2017, released Small Town Life album (Mountain Fever).
2018, mandolinist Cory Piatt left the band and was replaced by Nate Burie.
2019, changed the name of the group to Summer and Bray.

Mountain Heart

Posted on December 7, 2013July 20, 2024 by WR

MOUNTAIN HEART

Formed in 1998 by Adam Steffey, Steve Gulley, Barry Abernathy, Jim Van Cleve and Johnny Dowdle after having worked with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver. Steffey was replaced during the recording of the band’s first album by Alan Perdue. Since the beginning, the band experienced numerous personnel changes.
1999, released first album Mountain Heart (Doobie Shea).
1999, Jason Moore replaced Dowdle on bass. Moore had formerly worked with James King.
1999, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2001, released Journey album (Doobie Shea).
2001, mandolinist Adam Steffey returned to the group after a short stint with the Dixie Chicks.
2002, released No Other Way album (Skaggs Family).
2002, won IBMA award for Gospel Recording of the Year (“The Journey”)
2003, Clay Jones joined the band.
2004, released Force of Nature album (Skaggs Family).
2006, released Wide Open album (Skaggs Family).
2006, Gulley left the band to form Grasstowne with Phil Leadbetter and Alan Bibey.
2006, Josh Shilling replaced Gulley and the band began moving towards a more country-rock, jam-band style.
2007, released Road That Never Ends album (Rural Rhythm).
2007, Jones left the band and was replaced by Clay Hess.
2007, Steffey left the band to work with Dan Tyminski (and later the Boxcars) and was replaced by Aaron Ramsey.
2008, Hess left the band (to join Sierra Hull’s band) and Tony Rice subbed on guitar for several dates.
2009, Clay Jones re-joined the band on guitar.
2010, Clay Jones left the band and was replaced by Jake Stargel (formerly with the Lovell Sisters, Greencards, Bearfoot).
2011, released That Just Happened album (no label).
2011, Stargel left the band to join Sierra Hull and Hwy 111 and was replaced by Seth Taylor (formerly with Monroeville and Pine Mountain Railroad).
2014, Taylor (guitar) left the band to join Dailey and Vincent.
2014, Van Cleve left the band to devote more time to his recording and production business. Remaining members: Abernathy (banjo), Ramsey (mandolin), Taylor (guitar), Moore (bass) and Shilling (guitar, keyboards).
2014, Moore and Abernathy departed, selling the band’s assets to the other members. Van Cleve (fiddle) and Taylor (guitar) returned and the group re-organized with Van Cleve, Taylor, Shilling and Ramsey plus new bass/Dobro™ player Jeff Partin (formerly with Volume Five).
2015, Molly Cherryholmes (fiddle) replaced Van Cleve. She joins Shilling (guitar, keyboards), Ramsey (mandolin), Taylor (guitar), and Partin (bass, resophonic guitar).
2016, released Blue Skies album (Compass).

Mulder, Seth (and Midnight Run)

Posted on March 13, 2022 by WR

SETH MULDER (AND MIDNIGHT RUN)

From East Tennessee. Mulder is originally from Hillsboro, North Dakota.
2011, graduated from the Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music in Hyden, Kentucky.
2015, formed a band called Midnight Run while working as a bartender at the Ole Smokey Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Band members: Mulder (mandolin), Colton Powers (banjo), Ben Watlington (guitar) and Max Etling (bass). They play regularly at the distillery as well as other show dates and tours.
2020, released Traveling Kind album (no label).
2021, they were signed by Mountain Fever Records.

Muller, Damian

Posted on January 11, 2019January 11, 2019 by WR

DAMIAN MULLER

From Richmond, Virginia.
He is a singer/songwriter whose songs have been recorded by a variety of bluegrass bands including Southern Rail. He specializes in songs of “faith, family and fun.”
2018, released solo project You’ve Still Got It (Thornrose Music).

Mullins, Joe (and the Radio Ramblers)

Posted on December 7, 2013October 8, 2022 by WR

JOE MULLINS (AND THE RADIO RAMBLERS)

From Southwestern Ohio.
Mullins previously played banjo with the Traditional Grass. He also was a founding member of the band Longview.
Joe’s father Paul Mullins was also a member of the Traditional Grass and a popular radio personality in Ohio.
1995, Mullins purchased radio station WBZI in Xenia. Later purchased WKFI (Wilmington) and WEDI (Eaton).
1995, released an album of banjo/fiddle duets with fiddler Gerald Evans of the Traditional Grass called Just A Five String & Fiddle (Rebel).
2006, formed his band The Radio Ramblers to promote his radio stations, The band included Adam McIntosh (guitar), Evan McGregor (fiddle), Mike Terry (mandolin), and Tim Kidd (bass).
2009, released Rambler’s Call album, his first with the Radio Ramblers (no label).
2011, released Hymns from the Hills album (Rebel).
2012, released They’re Playing My Song album (Rebel).
2012, won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2000, 2013, 2016 won IBMA Award for Broadcaster of the Year.
2013, released an album of duets with Junior Sisk called Hall of Fame Bluegrass (Rebel) which honored members of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2014, was elected to the IBMA Board of Directors.
2014, released Another Day From Life album (Rebel).
2015, Radio Ramblers lineup: Mullins (banjo), Mike Terry (mandolin), Jason Barie (fiddle), Duane Sparks (guitar) and Randy Barnes (bass).
2015 released Sacred Memories album (Rebel)
2016, was elected as chairman of the IBMA Board of Directors.
2016, won the IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year (for “All Dressed Up” on his Sacred Memories album).
2017, won the IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year (for “Sacred Memories” on his Sacred Memories album).
2017, released The Story We Tell album (Rebel).
2018, won the IBMA Award for Song of the Year (for “If I’d Have Wrote That Song” from his The Story We Tell album).
2019, released For the Record album (Billy Blue).
2019, won the IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.
2019, won the IBMA Award for Collaborative Recording of the Year (for “The Guitar Song” with Del McCoury).
2020, Jeff Parker joined the Radio Ramblers, replacing Mike Terry.
2022, Chris Davis (formerly with the Grascals) joined the Radio Ramblers, replacing Jeff Parker who left to resume his solo career.

Munde, Alan

Posted on December 7, 2013August 21, 2023 by WR

ALAN MUNDE

From Norman, Oklahoma. Has lived in Nashville, Los Angeles, Levelland and Wimberly Texas, Oklahoma City.
1969, began playing banjo professionally at age 22 with 16-year-old Sam Bush in a band called Poor Richard’s Almanac.
1970, joined Jimmy Martin and The Sunny Mountain Boys.
1972, moved to Los Angeles and with Byron Berline, Roger Bush and Kenny Wertz, formed The Country Gazette, a band that he would lead in one form or another for the next 30 years. During this time he also performed with The Flying Burrito Brothers.
1976, released first solo album Banjo Sandwich (Ridge Runner).
1980, released “The Banjo Kid Picks Again” album (Ridge Runner).
1980-1985, released several Festival Favorites albums (Ridge Runner).
1986-2007, taught bluegrass music at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas. He has also written and recorded dozens of banjo instruction books, recordings and videos.
1994, formed a duo with former Country Gazette member Joe Carr (guitar, mandolin) performing what they called “Border Bluegrass,” a mix of bluegrass with Tex-Mex influences. They released several albums for Flying Fish Records.
1994, released Blue Ridge Express album (Rounder).
2004, formed The Alan Munde Gazette and released a self-titled album (no label).
2006, was elected to the board of the IBMA.
2007, released “Old Bones” album (Munde’s Child) featuring earlier recordings never-before released.
2008, received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA (with Joe Carr).
2009, performed and recorded with an Austin-based band The Two High String Band.
2014, released an album of duets with mandolinist Billy Bright called “Bright Munde” (Munde’s Child).
2018, released “Es Mi Suerte” album (Munde’s Child) with mandolinist Billy Bright.
2021, was awarded the Steve Martin Banjo Prize.
2023, released Excelsior album (Patuxent).

Mundy, C.W.

Posted on December 7, 2013December 18, 2015 by WR

C. W. MUNDY

From Indianapolis, Indiana.
Full name is Charles Warren Mundy.
Plays banjo with a group called the Disco Mountain Boys but is best known as a world-renowned fine artist. He is a Master Signature Member of the Oil Painters of America and holds Master Status with the American Impressionist Society.
1969, moved to Southern California where he played at various times with Byron Berline, Dan Crary, Pat Cloud and other SoCal musicians. He formed a band called the Tarzan Swing Band.
1978, moved back to Indiana, his home state, where he has focused primarily on his fine art pursuits.
2011, released solo project called Road Trip (Moon Surf Records) featuring guest musicians Jeff Autry, Randy Kohrs and other bluegrass artists.

Munford, Mike

Posted on October 31, 2014December 17, 2015 by WR

MIKE MUNFORD

From Baltimore (lives in Glen Rock, Maryland). He was born in St. Louis, MO.
A banjo player since age 15, he has worked with Peter Rowan, the Tony Rice Unit, The Rice Brothers, the Lynn Morris Band, Mark Newton and many others.
2009, joined Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen.
2013, won the IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.

Gill, Vince

Posted on November 27, 2013March 30, 2016 by WR

VINCE GILL

From Norman, Oklahoma.
Seriously considered golf as a profession, but decided to play bluegrass instead.
First band: Mountain Smoke (in high school). This band once opened for Pure Prairie League, a band he would later join.
Age 18, joined the Bluegrass Alliance.
Mid-70’s, joined Byron Berline’s and Sundance.
Late-70’s, joined the country-rock band Pure Prairie League. While he was with that group, they had several #1 records, including “Let Me Love You Tonight.”
1984, became a solo artist (signed with RCA Records). First #1 hit: “When I Call Your Name.”
1990, co-hosted the first IBMA Awards Show (in Owensboro, Kentucky).
1992, became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
1991-2004, hosted the CMA awards.
1997, performed a tribute to Bill Monroe at the Grammy Awards.
1997, won IBMA award for Song of the Year for his song “High Lonesome Sound.”
2000, married singer Amy Grant.
2007, inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2008, won a Grammy (Best Country Album) for “These Days,” a 4-CD project which included the bluegrass album Little Brother: The Acoustic Record (MCA Nashville).
As of 2014, he has won 20 Grammys, 18 Country Music Association Awards, one IBMA Award and is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Murphey, Michael Martin

Posted on December 6, 2013April 25, 2020 by WR

MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY

From Dallas, Texas (born in Oak Cliff, Texas). Lives in Colorado.
1964, formed first band with Michael Nesmith (later of the Monkees) called the Trinity River Boys.
1967, wrote “What Am I Doing Hanging Round” for the Monkees and other songs recorded by the group.
1971, became part of the “outaw country” movement in Austin, Texas with Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Jerry Jeff Walker, etc.
1973, recorded biggest hit “Wildfire.”
1983, recorded “Carolina in the Pines,” and won Male Vocalist of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
1990, recorded “Cowboy Songs,” the first Gold Record for an album of cowboy music since Marty Robbins’ “Gunfighter Ballads.”
2004, inducted into the Western Music Hall of Fame (WMA).
2008, recorded Buckaroo Blue Grass (Rural Rhythm) produced by his son Ryan.
2009, named “Entertainer of the Year” at the Texas Music Awards.
2010, released Buckaroo Blue Grass II, (Rural Rhythm), his second bluegrass album.
2010, released a bluegrass Christmas album Acoustic Christmas Carols (Rural Rhythm).
2011, released Tall Grass & Cool Water (Rural Rhythm), his third bluegrass album.

Leath, Nate

Posted on December 5, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

NATE LEATH

From Bethlehem, North Carolina; lives in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Was a fiddle child prodigy, playing in front of audiences at age 8.
1996, at age 11, won first place at the Galax, VA fiddle contest (the youngest to do that) and has since won it twice more (he is a three-time winner of that prestigious contest).
2000, recorded his first album Extra Medium (Patuxent Records) at age 15.
2003, released Mojo Expresso album (Patuxent Records.)
2005, released I’ve Always Been a Rambler album (Patuxent Records).
2006, graduated from the Berklee School of Music in Boston.
2006, joined Old School Freight Train. He also began playing dates with David Grisman Quartet.
2009, released Rockville Pike album (Patuxent Records.)
2014, released Nate Leath & Friends Volume 2 album (Patuxent Records.)

A. J. Lee (and Blue Summit)

Posted on June 20, 2022 by WR

A. J. LEE (AND BLUE SUMMIT)

From Tracy, California.
2005, she began performing at age seven with the Tuttles, a family band that featured Jack Tuttle and his children Michael, Sullivan and Molly. A. J. played mandolin and sang lead and harmony vocals. The act was later billed as “The Tuttles featuring A.J. Lee.”
2014, she made her first solo recordings, two EPs “AJ Lee” and “Song for Noah.”
She also performed with a group called OMGG (Obviously Minor Guys and a Girl).
2015, after the Tuttles disbanded (Molly went to the Berklee School of Music), A.J and Sullivan Tuttle formed a new group called Blue Summit.
2019, released “Like I Used To” album (no label).
2019, Blue Summit won the FreshGrass Band Contest and Sullivan Tuttle won the 2019 National Flatpicking Contest (Winfield, Kansas).
2019, A. J. won the IBMA Momentum Award for Vocalist of the Year.
2021, released “I’ll Come Back” album (no label).
2022, current band members: A. J. Lee (mandolin), Sullivan Tuttle (guitar), Scott Gates (guitar), Chad Bowen (bass) and Jan Purat (fiddle).

Lee, Nate

Posted on June 12, 2020July 27, 2020 by WR

NATE LEE

From Ovilla, Texas. Now living in Nashville.
A multi-instrumentalist, he is best known as a mandolin player. He also plays fiddle, guitar and banjo.
He has worked in several bands including the Alan Munde Gazette (playing fiddle), The Jim Hurst Trio (fiddle and mandolin) and his own band, The Hard Road Trio.
2015, won an IBMA Momentum award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2017, joined the Becky Buller Band (mandolin).
He named his mandolin “Wonderbat,” a reference to the baseball bat used by Homer Simpson on the TV Show “The Simpsons.”
2020, released first solo project Wings of a Jetliner (Adverb).

Leftover Salmon

Posted on December 4, 2013April 20, 2021 by WR

LEFTOVER SALMON

From Boulder, Colorado.
Formed in 1989. The name came from combining the names of two of the members previous bands: “The Left Hand String Band” (led by Drew Emmitt) and “The Salmon Heads” (led by Vince Herman).
They called their music “Poly-ethnic Cajon Slam Grass.”
Original members: Drew Emmitt (mandolin), Vince Herman (guitar), Mark Vann (banjo), Jeff Stipe (drums), Tye North (bass.)
1993, released first album Bridges to Bert (Hollywood).
1995, released Ask the Fish album (Hollywood).
1997, released Euphoria album (Hollywood).
1999, released Nashville Sessions album (Hollywood).
2001, Vann died of melanoma cancer in 2001. He was replaced by Noam Pikelny (2003).
2002, Emmitt recorded a solo project with Sam Bush, John Cowan, Scott Vestal, others.
2003, toured with the Del McCoury Band.
2003, released O’Cracker Where Art Thou album (Telegraph Company).
2004, released Leftover Salmon album for Compendium records, then disbanded.
2005, Emmitt formed the Drew Emmitt Band. Herman formed Great American Taxi.
2007-2010, reunited for several concerts with Matt Flinner on banjo.
2010, banjo player Andy Thorn joined the group and the band was reborn.
2012, released Aquatic Hitchhiker album (LOS).
2014, released High Country album (LOS).
2018, released Something Higher album (Soundly).
2021, released Brand New Good Old Days album (Compass).

Leftwich, Andy

Posted on December 4, 2013October 8, 2016 by WR

ANDY LEFTWICH

From White House, Tennessee.
Began playing fiddle at age 6. Won the Tennessee State Fiddle Championship (for beginners) at age 9. Also played on stage with Bill Monroe at age 9.
Began playing mandolin at 12, guitar at 14.
Age 13, worked with Mike Snider on the Grand Ole Opry.
1998 (age 15), joined Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike.
2001, joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder playing fiddle (replaced Bobby Hicks).
2003, recorded first solo album Ride (Skaggs Family Records).
2005, formed a jazz trio with Rob Ickes (Dobro™) and Dave Pomeroy (bass) called Three Ring Circle. Released two albums with this group, Three Ring Circle and Brothership (no label).
2016, released Instrumental Hymns (no label).
2016 (December), left Ricky Skaggs’s band to pursue other musical and Christian ministry opportunities.

Legere, Ray

Posted on December 4, 2013November 27, 2015 by WR

RAY LEGERE

From Amherst, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Has won numerous awards at the Eastern Canadian Bluegrass Music Awards, including Mandolin, Fiddle, and Guitar Player of the Year.
Holds the distinction of being the only mandolin player to work with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys (other than Bill himself). He filled in for Monroe in 1982 when he was ill.
1986, won the National Mandolin Championship (USA) in Winfield, Kansas.
1996, won Fiddle Player of the Year (Central Canadian Bluegrass Awards).
1997, released River of No Return album with Dobro™ player Roger Williams (Strictly Country).
1999, released Squirrely Moves album (EMI).
Has toured with Tony Rice, Michelle Shocked, Alison Brown and many others.
2002, worked with the Dick Smith/Mike O’Reilly Band.
Has his own band called Acoustic Horizon.
He is musical director for a Canadian TV show called “Fiddlehead Country” and is also the house fiddler for the french music show “Pour L’Amour De Country”.

Lester, Emory

Posted on December 4, 2013November 27, 2015 by WR

EMORY LESTER

From Gainesville, Virginia.
Currently lives in Ontario, Canada.
Had his own group for several years called The Emory Lester Set. Also had bands called “Grassworks” (bluegrass) and Earthen Sky (new age/soft rock).
Has also worked with The Tony Rice Unit, Jerry Douglas, The Del McCoury Band, The Eddie Adcock Band, Bill Emerson, Wayne Taylor Jimmy Gaudreau, Gary Feguson and Sally Love and others.
1993, won “Mandolin Player of the Year” at the Canadian Bluegrass Awards show.
1999, formed a duo with banjo player Mark Johnson.
2002, released “Cruisin’ the 8” album (Quiet Fire).
2006, released “Acoustic Rising” album with Mark Johnson (Mountain Home).
2012, released Acoustic Vision album with Mark Johnson (Bangtown).
2013, released “1863” album with Mark Johnson (Bangtown).
2013, released “At Dusk” album (Acoustic Disk).

Lester, Jenny

Posted on December 4, 2013November 28, 2015 by WR

JENNY LESTER

From Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada).
Began performing with her family band The Driftwood Canyon Family Band at age 7.
Sings and plays fiddle and guitar.
Performed and toured internationally with a Colorado group called Dark Horse.
1999, released Friends Like You album (no label), produced by John Reischman.

Lewis, Ashley

Posted on April 2, 2014November 28, 2015 by WR

ASHLEY LEWIS

From Sandwich, Illinois.
Plays mandolin. She began singing and performing at age 7 in her family band.
Formed her own group at age 12. Currently performs with her band “Legacy.”
Has received numerous awards for her accomplishments on the mandolin from the Illinois Arts Council.
2004, released album “Past Presence.”
2008, released Here I Stand album (no label).
2014, released Captivated album (no label) produced by Jimmy Mattingly.

Lewis, Laurie

Posted on December 4, 2013September 26, 2024 by WR

LAURIE LEWIS

From Berkeley, California.
Early 60’s, she heard the Dillards and got hooked on bluegrass.
She is a two-time winner of the California State Fiddle Championship.
She owned and operated Marin Violin (a music store) for six years.
1974, played bass with The Phantoms of the Opry (with Pat Enright, later of the Nashville Bluegrass Band.)
1975, founded The Good Old Persons with Kathy Kallick.
1977, worked with Peter Rowan’s Free Mexican Air Force.
1980, formed her own band Grant Street.
1981, played bass with the Vern Williams Band.
1986, released first solo project Restless Rambling Heart album (Flying Fish).
1988, recorded Blue Rose album with Cathy Fink, Sally Van Meter, Molly Mason and Marcy Marxer (Sugar Hill).
1989, released Love Chooses You album (Flying Fish). The title song (written by Laurie) was subsequently recorded by Kathy Mattea and went to #1 on the country charts.
1990, released Singin’ My Troubles Away album (Flying Fish).
1992, 1994, won the IBMA award for Female Vocalist of the Year.
1992, made first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.
1993, released True Stories album (Rounder Records).
1994, she and mandolinist Tom Rozum were seriously injured in an automobile accident while traveling to a performance in Arizona (they both recovered).
1995, released The Oak and the Laurel (Rounder), a duet album with Tom Rozum.
1997, rode her bicycle 593 miles to raise $6000 for AIDS research.
1997, released Earth & Sky: Songs of Laurie Lewis album (Rounder).
1998, disbanded Grant Street and began working as a trio with Tom Rozum and Todd Phillips. She added Craig Smith (banjo) and Mary Gibbons (guitar) to the trio and performed as Laurie Lewis and Her Bluegrass Pals.
1998, released Seeing Things album (Rounder).
1999, released Laurie Lewis & Her Bluegrass Pals album (Rounder).
1999, she and Tom Rozum began hosting an annual river rafting trip down the Rogue River (Oregon).
2002, released Birdsong album (Spruce and Maple).
2004, released Guest House, a duet album with Tom Rozum (High Tone).
2004, released Winter’s Grace, a holiday duet album with Tom Rozum (Dog Boy).
2005, released Blossoms album (Spruce and Maple).
2006, released The Golden West album (High Tone) with her new band The Right Hands.
2008, released Live album (Spruce and Maple).
2011, released Skippin’ and Flyin’ album (Spruce and Maple).
2013, released One Evening in May album (Spruce and Maple), recorded live at the Freight and Salvage in Berkeley, CA.
2014, released a duet album with Kathy Kallick Laurie and Kathy Sing the Songs of Vern and Ray (Spruce and Maple).
2016, released The Hazel and Alice Sessions album (Spruce and Maple) with her band The Right Hands, a tribute to the music of Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard.
2020, released …And Laurie Lewis (Spruce and Maple) album, featuring duets with many guest artists.
2024, released Trees album (Spruce and Maple).
2024, received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA for her contributions to bluegrass music.

Lewis Family, The

Posted on December 4, 2013August 1, 2021 by WR

THE LEWIS FAMILY

From Lincolnton, Georgia.
They were known as “The First Family of Bluegrass Gospel Music.”
1950, they were first known as the Lewis Brothers: Talmadge, Esley and Wallace, along with Dad (Roy) and Miggie.
In the mid-fifties, they changed the name of the group to The Lewis Family, and included sisters Miggie, Polly and Janis, brothers Wallace, Talmadge and Little Roy, and Pop (Roy, Sr.)
They were one of the first bluegrass groups to feature female vocalists.
Over their 50-year career in music, they recorded more than 100 albums of bluegrass gospel music for such record labels as Starday, Canaan, Hollywood, Benson, Crest, Federal, Thoroughbred, Riversong, Gusto, Mountain Home, Music Mill, Sullivan, Daywind, Ember, Nashville, Melodisc and Timberline.
1954, began their own TV show in Augusta Georgia (final broadcast: September 13,1992.)
1993, purchased the late Conway Twitty’s bus and matching trailer.
2000, Pop Lewis was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame (May 24).
2002, they received IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement award.
2003, Mom Lewis died, 2/8.
2004, Pop Lewis died, 3/23.
2006, they were inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2007, Wallace Lewis died 5/16.
2009, after winning two more Dove Awards (Gospel music’s highest award), the Lewis Family officially retired. Little Roy Lewis began performing as a duo with his foster daughter Lizzie Long.
2010, Travis Lewis (son of Wallace) and his son Jameson, Janis Lewis and her son Lewis Phillips formed a new band called The Lewis Tradition and released “Precious Memories” album (Thoroughbred).
2015, they were inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame (Wilkesboro, North Carolina).
2017, Miggie Lewis died, 12/26.
2018, Polly Lewis died, 8/19.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

50th Anniversary Celebration (Daywind)
The Best of The Lewis Family: The First Family of Bluegrass Gospel Music (Federal)
The Golden Gospel Best of The Lewis Family (Hollywood)
Bluegrass Country Club (Daywind, 1995)
Flyin High (Mountain Home, 2006)
Gospel Train (Gusto, 2010)

Lewis, Wayne

Posted on December 4, 2013 by WR

WAYNE LEWIS

From Sandy Hook, Kentucky.
1973-4, was a member of Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys.
1975, worked with Lillimae and the Dixie Gospelaires.
1976-1986, was lead singer for Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys (the longest tenure of any lead singer in the Blue Grass Boys. He appeared on 12 of Monroe’s albums.)
1986-present, joined the Cumberland Highlanders and co-hosts their TV show on the Outdoor Channel
Also performs with his own Wayne Lewis Band.

Lil’ Smokies, The

Posted on October 3, 2016January 20, 2020 by WR

THE LIL’ SMOKIES

From Missoula, Montana.
Formed in 2010. Band members: Andy Dunnigan (dobro), Scott Parker (upright bass), Matt Cornette (banjo), Jake Simpson (fiddle) and Matt Rieger (guitar).
How they got their name: At their first paid gig, the green room was supplied with beer, toothpicks and a plate of Lil’ Smokies sausages. At that time, they didn’t have a band name. After the show, when asked the name of their band, they looked at the empty plate of toothpicks and had their answer.
2013, won The Northwest String Summit Band Competition in Oregon.
2013, released The Lil’ Smokies album (no label)
2014, released Live on New Year’s Eve album (no label)
2015, won the band contest at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.
2016, won the IBMA Momentum Award in the band category.
2018, released Changing Shades album (United Interests).

Lilly Brothers, The

Posted on December 4, 2013November 28, 2015 by WR

THE LILLY BROTHERS

From Boston, Massachusetts. Originally from Clear Creek, West Virginia.
Two brothers: Everett and Michel (an odd spelling of “Michael” that was often mis-pronounced “Mitchell” so he went by “B” the first initial of his middle name “Burt”).
In 1938, began performing as the Lonesome Holler Boys. During the 1940’s, they also performed as “The Smiling Mountain Boys.”
1948, made their recording debut with Red Belcher and the Kentucky Ridge Runners.
1948, joined the WWVA Wheeling Jamboree as the Lilly Mountaineers.
1952-1953, Everett played mandolin with Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs on many of their classic early recordings.
1952, moved to Boston and joined fiddler Tex Logan and banjo player Don Stover to form The Lilly Brothers. For 17 years (until 1970), they performed almost every night at Boston’s Hillbilly Ranch.
Also recorded as The Lilly Brothers and Don Stover to highlight Stover’s banjo playing.
Credited with bringing bluegrass to New England, they influenced such future bluegrass artists as Peter Rowan, Jim Rooney, Bill Keith and many others.
2001, began performing again with their band “The Lilly Mountaineers.”
2002, were inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame. Bill Keith made the presentation.
2005, Bea Lilly died.
2008, Everett Lilly won the IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year for Everett Lilly & Everybody and Their Brother album (Swift River).
2012, Everett Lilly died.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Early Recordings (Rebel, 1994)
What Will I Leave Behind (Rebel, 2003)
Bluegrass at the Roots (Smithsonian Folkways, 2005)
On the Radio 1952-1953 (Rounder, 2009)

Lindley Creek

Posted on June 13, 2020April 3, 2023 by WR

LINDLEY CREEK

From Buffalo, Missouri (about 30 miles north of Springfield).
A family band, formerly known as the Greer Family.
Formed in 2005 by John (bass) and Kathie Greer (guitar) and their children: Katie Greer (mandolin), Tate Greer (banjo) and Jase Greer (fiddle). Katie Greer (Hutson) is the lead singer on most songs.
They re-named their group Lindley Creek–after an actual creek near where John grew up.
2016, released Lonely Old Guitar album (no label).
2017, Tate (banj0) left the group to pursue a new career and start a family.
2020, released Freedom, Love and the Open Road album (Pinecastle), produced by Jim Van Cleve.

Lindsay Lou (and the Flatbellys)

Posted on September 8, 2014March 12, 2018 by WR

LINDSAY LOU (AND THE FLATBELLYS)

From Lansing, Michigan.
The Flatbellys were formed in 2008 by several college students who were jamming at a local festival. They got their name after a jam at one of these festivals, where a picker proclaimed “It’s good to see a bunch of you flatbellies out here pickin with us grey-beards!”
Lindsay Lou (Rilko) was a classical music singer who converted to bluegrass after meeting Josh Rilko, mandolinist with the Flatbellys. She eventually became his wife as well as the lead singer and guitarist of the band in 2010. Other members (2012): PJ George (bass), Mark Lavengood (Dobro™) and Keith Billick (banjo).
2012, released Release Your Shrouds album (Earthwork Music).
2015, released Ionia album (no label).

Little, Keith

Posted on December 4, 2013July 29, 2024 by WR

KEITH LITTLE

From Sonora, California. Lives in Lincoln, Oregon.
Plays banjo and guitar.
1974-1989, worked with the Vern Williams Band.
1980-1985, worked with Rose Maddox; also Frank Wakefield.
1983-1985, joined High Country (played guitar and sang lead).
1984-1986, worked with the Grant Street String Band.
1986-1988, joined the Country Gentlemen.
1990-1995, moved to Nashville and joined the Ricky Skaggs Band.
1995, joined Kathy Kallick’s Little Big Band.
1996, joined Lonesome Standard Time.
1996, began full-time studio work, also touring and recording as a solo artist.
As a writer, his songs have been recorded by Longview, Claire Lynch, The Whites, Tim O’Brien, Crystal Gayle, others.
Has performed on albums by Dolly Parton, Ricky Skaggs, Claire Lynch, The Chieftains, Chris Jones, others.
2001, played dates with Mac Martin and the Dixie Travelers.
2001, released solo project Distant Land to Roam (Copper Creek).
2004, moved back to California.
2007, joined the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band. Also worked with the David Grisman Bluegrass Experience, Jim Nunally and also did solo work.
2013, formed his own group The LittleBand (one word) with musicians Michael Witcher (Dobro™), Josh Tharp (banjo), Luke Abbott (fiddle and mandolin), Steve Swan (bass) and occasionally Blaine Sprouse (fiddle).
2016, moved to Oregon and continues to perform with his own band and conducts a vocal workshop at festivals and other venues.

Little Roy and Lizzy Show

Posted on May 14, 2017May 14, 2017 by WR

LITTLE ROY AND LIZZY SHOW

(See LIZZY LONG)

Livewire

Posted on February 12, 2016 by WR

LIVEWIRE

From Kentucky, North Carolina, Nashville.
A band formed in 1989 by Scott Vestal (banjo) following his stint with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver. Bandmates included Wayne Benson (mandolin), Robert Hale (guitar) and Ernie Sykes (bass).
They were considered a newgrass band at the time because of their used of amplifiers and untraditional material.
1990, released one and only album Wired! (Rounder).

Loafer’s Glory

Posted on December 4, 2013November 28, 2015 by WR

LOAFER’S GLORY

From Los Angeles, CA.
Formed in 2010 by Herb Pederson (guitar), Bill Bryson (bass), Tom Sauber (fiddle) and Pat Sauber (banjo).
Pederson and Bryson have worked in many bands together including the Desert Rose Band and the Laurel Canyon Ramblers. Tom Sauber and son Pat are well-known Southern California bluegrassmusicians. Pat also works frequently with Laurie Lewis, the Bladerunners and the Brombies and was featured in the 2003 movie “A Mighty Wind.”
The band got it’s name from an obscure Flatt and Scruggs song, Loafer’s Glory (recorded in 1965)
2012, released Loafer’s Glory album (Arhoolie).

Locust Ridge

Posted on December 4, 2013February 9, 2020 by WR

LOCUST RIDGE

From Locust Ridge, Tennessee (east Tennessee).
A gospel group featuring the Allen Brothers: Russell (guitar), Josh (mandolin) and Larry (bass). Also in the band, their close friend Andy Blalock (guitar). They all attend Evans Chapel Baptist Church in Locust Ridge.
2013, released Healed album (Rural Rhythm) with special guests Steve Gulley, Dale Ann Bradley and Justin Moses.

Lonely Heartstring Band

Posted on December 15, 2015April 15, 2019 by WR

THE LONELY HEARTSTRING BAND

From Boston, Massachusetts.
Members: George Clements (guitar, lead vocals), Patrick M’Gonigle (fiddle), Matt Witler (mandolin), Gabe Hirshfeld (banjo) and Charles Clements (bass). George and Charles Clements are identical twins.
Formed in 2012. They were hired as a wedding band to perform Beatles songs bluegrass-style and decided to stay together. They called themselves BeatleGrass.
Several of the group members are (or have been) students at the Berklee School of Music in Boston.
2015, won the IBMA Momentum Award for Band of the Year.
2016, released Deep Waters album (Rounder).
2019, released Smoke and Ashes album (Rounder).
2019, announced an “indefinite hiatus” (no more touring and recording) beginning in September.

Lonesome Highway

Posted on December 4, 2013June 13, 2020 by WR

LONESOME HIGHWAY

From Romney, West Virginia.
Formed in 1996.
Members (2011): John Arnold (banjo), Jimmy Kountz (mandolin), Buddy Dunlap (guitar), Mason Wright (fiddle) and Cody Brown (bass).
1999, released first album “Look Back on Love” (no label).
2004, released “Chalk Up Another One” album (no label).
2011, released Got Away With Murder album (no label).

Lonesome Meadow

Posted on December 4, 2013 by WR

LONESOME MEADOW

From Westerville, Ohio (near Columbus).
A family band featuring three siblings: Anne Marie Jackson (fiddle), John Jackson (guitar), Gary Jackson (banjo) and their dad Mark Jackson (bass).
Formed in 2005 at an open mic night at Webb’s Country Kitchen in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee.
2010, released their 4th album “Carry Me Away.”
2011, released their 5th album “Sittin’ on a Sidewalk” produced by Don Rigsby.

Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, The

Posted on December 4, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

THE LONESOME PINE FIDDLERS

Originally from Balsden, West Virginia (coal mining region).
A hillbilly string band founded in 1937 by brothers Ned, Ray and Ezra Cline.
1942, Ned died in the Normandy Invasion (D-Day, WW II).
1949, Scruggs-style banjo player Larry Richardson joined the band, giving it a more bluegrass sound. Bobby Osborne was playing guitar at the time.
1951, Richardson and Osborne left, replaced by Paul Williams and the Goins Brothers.
1952-1954, recorded for RCA Victor.
1955, disbanded, then reunited in 1961 with the Goins Brothers, Ezra and “Curly Ray” Cline.
1963, disbanded for good.
2009, inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Windy Mountain (Bear Family).
Bluegrass Collection (Gusto).

Lonesome River Band, The

Posted on December 4, 2013June 11, 2024 by WR

THE LONESOME RIVER BAND

From Ferrum, Virginia.
Formed in 1983 by Tim Austin and Jerry McMillan. Current and former members of the band include Adam Steffey, Dan Tyminski, Dale Perry, Kenny Smith, Ricky Simpkons, Sammy Shelor, Ronnie Bowman, Don Rigsby, Darrell Webb, Jeff Parker and Brandon Rickman.
1995, founding member Tim Austin (guitar) left the band to develop his own recording studio and label, Doobie Shea Records. He is a top sound engineer for the Grand Ole Opry and touring country music shows.
1996 line-up: Ronnie Bowman (bass, lead vocals), Sammy Shelor (banjo), Kenny Smith (guitar), Don Rigsby (mandolin).
1998, all four members of the band won IBMA awards: Bowman (Male Vocalist), Shelor (Banjo Player), Smith (Guitar Player), and Rigsby (Recorded Event, Song of the Year for his work with “Longview”).
2000, Ricky Simpkins joined the band.
2001, Bowman, Smith, Rigsby and Simpkins departed en masse. Shelor acquired the band name and re-organized the group with new members: Brandon Rickman (guitar), Jeff Parker (mandolin), Barry Berrier (bass) and Mike Hartgrove (fiddle). Irl Hees soon replaced Berrier.
2011, Shelor received the Steve Martin prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass.
2012, won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Recording of the Year (for “Angeline the Baker” from Life Goes On album featuring various artists (Musicians Against Childhood Cancer).
2012, Shelor won the IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.
2014 lineup: Shelor (banjo), Rickman (guitar), Hartgrove (fiddle), Barry Reed (bass) and Randy Jones (mandolin.)
2015, Jesse Smathers (mandolin) joined the group, replacing Randy Jones.
2017, Smathers won the IBMA Momentum Award for Vocalist of the Year.
2021, Brandon Rickman (guitar) departed and was replaced by Adam Miller (mandolin). Smathers switched from mandolin to guitar. Also, Barry Reed (bass) was replaced by Kameron Keller.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS

Looking for Yourself (Rebel, 1989) First CD with band that included Tim Austin, Dan Tyminski, Jerry MacMillian and Dale Perry.
Carrying the Tradition (Rebel, 1991) Their landmark album featuring Tyminski, Austin, plus new members Ronnie Bowman and Sammy Shelor.
Old Country Town (Sugar Hill, 1994) Another classic LRB album featuring strong vocals by Tyminski and Bowman.
One Step Forward (Sugar Hill, 1996) First of three albums with Bowman, Shelor and new members Don Rigsby and Kenny Smith.
Finding The Way (Sugar Hill, 1998)
Talkin to Myself (Sugar Hill, 2000)
Window of Time (Doobie Shea, 2002) First album with the new lineup: Shelor plus Brandon Rickman, Jeff Parker, Mike Hartgrove, Irl Hees.
Head on Into Heartache (Mountain Home, 2005)
Road With No End (Mountain Home, 2006)
Best of the Sugar Hill Years (Sugar Hill, 2007)
No Turning Back (Rural Rhythm, 2008)
Still Learning (Rural Rhythm, 2010)
Chronology, Volume 1 (Rural Rhythm, 2012) A celebration of the band’s 30 years together featuring re-do’s of LRB favorites.
Chronology, Volume 2 (Rural Rhythm, 2012)
Chronology, Volume 3 (Rural Rhythm, 2012)
Turn on a Dime (Mountain Home, 2014)
Bridging the Tradition (Mountain Home, 2016)
Mayhayley’s House (Mountain Home, 2017)
Outside Looking In (Mountain Home, 2019)
Singing Up There: A Tribute to the Easter Brothers (Mountain Home 2021)
Heydey (Mountain Home, 2022)
The Winning Hand (Mountain Home, 2024)

Lonesome Trio, The

Posted on May 11, 2015November 28, 2015 by WR

THE LONESOME TRIO

From New York City.
A trio formed in 1993 at Oberlin College by Ed Helms (banjo/guitar), Ian Riggs (bass) and Jacob Tilove (mandolin). They were originally called “Weedkiller.”
Helms is an actor and comedian (“The Office,” “Hangover,” “The Daily Show”) and founder of The Bluegrass Situation.
2015, released first album The Lonesome Trio (Sugar Hill).

Long, David

Posted on December 4, 2013July 3, 2019 by WR

DAVID LONG

From Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
A Monroe-style mandolin player, influenced by Frank Wakefield and Mike Compton.
2001, joined The Wildwood Valley Boys.
2003, worked with Karl Shiflett’s Big Country Show.
2003, released solo project “Midnight from Memphis” (no label).
2004, teamed up with guitarist Chris Sharp to form the Chris Sharp and David Long Band.
2005, released “One Hand on the Radio” album (Chris Sharp and David Long).
2006, recorded an album of Monroe-style duets called Stomp with Mike Compton (Acoustic Disk).
2013, joined Todd Grebe and Cold Country.
2014, re-joined Karl Shiflett’s Big Country Show.
2018, joined Pennsylvania band The Casual Hobos.

Long, Lizzie

Posted on December 3, 2013July 8, 2024 by WR

LIZZY LONG (LITTLE ROY AND LIZZY SHOW)

From Lincolnton, Georgia.
Lizzy is short for Elizabeth.
Sings and plays all the bluegrass instruments and piano.
She is the foster daughter of Little Roy Lewis.
Has a degree in musical orchestration and arranging from Belmont University.
She is also a luthier, building fiddles in her home shop.
2006, worked in a band called Mountain Fury with her twin sister Rebekah.
2006, recorded Lifetimes album with Little Roy Lewis and Earl Scruggs (Mountain Home).
2009, began performing with Little Roy Lewis as The Little Roy and Lizzie Show.
2012, released Lord in the Morning album (Pisgah Ridge).
2016, released Good Time, Down Home album (Provident).
2017, released solo project, Blueberry Pie (Vine).
2017, released Going Home album (StowTown).

Long, Rebekah

Posted on June 7, 2016July 2, 2021 by WR

REBEKAH LONG (SPEER)

From Lincolnton, Georgia.
She is the twin sister to Lizzy Long.
2002-2009, played bass with Lizzy Long and Little Roy Lewis.
2008, graduated from Glenville State College in Glenville, South Carolina, the first to graduate with a degree in Bluegrass Music.
2009, worked with Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike.
Appeared on the Daughters of Bluegrass albums produced by Dixie Hall. She was the recording engineer and graphic designer for these projects.
2014, married gospel music legend Ben Speer (who passed away from Alzheimers disease in 2017).
2016, released first solo album Here I Am (LUK), produced by Donna Ulisse.
2020, signed with Turnberry Records and began recording under the name Rebekah Speer.

Long Road Home

Posted on December 3, 2013 by WR

LONG ROAD HOME

From Boulder, Colorado
Formed by Justin Hoffenberg (fiddle) and Martin Gilmore (guitar) in 2005. Band also includes Pete Wernick (banjo), Jordan Ramsey (mandolin) and Andrew Bonnis (bass).
2013, released EP “Headed Back to Dixieland.”

Longview

Posted on December 3, 2013November 28, 2015 by WR

LONGVIEW

A project band made up of musicians who at the time were performing with other bands: Dudley Connell (Seldom Scene), James King (The James King Band), Joe Mullins, Don Rigsby (Lonesome River Band/Rock County), Glen Duncan (Rock County) and Marshall Wilborn (The Lynn Morris Band).
The idea for this band originated at the Denton, NC bluegrass festival in 1994, when Don Rigsby, Dudley Connell and James King sang together in a group called The Rounder All-Stars.
The name comes from the recording studio: The Long View Farm, in North Brookfield, Mass.
1997, recorded first album Longview (Rounder) which won the IBMA Award in 1998 for Recorded Event of the Year and Song of the Year (for “Lonesome Old Home”).
1999, recorded High Lonesome album (Rounder).
2002, recorded Lessons In Stone album (Rounder).
2003, Scott Vestal replaced Joe Mullins (banjo) for live shows.
2008, the group re-formed to record Deep in the Mountains album (Rounder) with three original members King, Wilborn and Rigsby plus Lou Reid, J.D. Crowe and Ron Stewart.

Loose Strings Band, The

Posted on July 27, 2015September 16, 2019 by WR

THE LOOSE STRINGS BAND

From Galax, Virginia.
Formed in 2005 as an all-girl kid band.
2012, released Next Chapter album (no label).
2013, released Everlasting Faith album (no label).
2015, released Journey With No End album (no label). By this time all the girls were between the ages of 17 and 21.
Members: Ashley Nate (banjo), Avery Davis (fiddle), Channing Russell (guitar), Grace Wilson (bass) and Lindsey Nale (mandolin).
2019: Grace Davis (formerly Wilson) left the band to play full-time with Shannon Slaughter’s group County Clare. She is married to banjo player Jason Davis.

Loose Ties

Posted on December 3, 2013February 20, 2016 by WR

LOOSE TIES

From Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Formed in 1985 by Phil Round (guitar/bass), Ben Winship (mandolin) and Ted Wells (banjo). They previously performed together in a Vermont-based group called The Homegrown Revue.
Avid skiers, they moved to Jackson Hole to work in ski resorts.
1986, won the Telluride Bluegrass Festival band championship.
1987, won second in the Kentucky Fried Chicken “Best New Bluegrass Bands” contest in Louisville. First place was won by Alison Krauss and Union Station.
1988, recorded a classic Christmas album called Yule Ties (Snake River).
1991, released “Up & Down the Highway” album (Snake River).
1994, released “Tangled Roots” album (Blue Planet).
Name origin: “We are loosely tied to traditional bluegrass.”
Original guitarist Joel Kaserman is from Australia. Rex Flinner (brother of Matt Flinner) also played guitar.
Banjo player Ted Wells has the distinction of being the first and only graduate of St. Lawrence University with a banjo degree.
1994, John Lowell (Kane’s River) joined the band to play guitar.
September, 1996, played last concert.
Mandolinist Ben Winship went on to work with the Judith Edelman Band and Kane’s River.
2008, the band reunited for a sold out show at the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts.
2009, founding member Phil Round formed the Snake River Band.

Lost & Found

Posted on December 3, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

LOST & FOUND

From Ferrum, Virginia.
Formed in 1973. Original members: Allen Mills (bass, lead vocals), Gene Parker (banjo), Roger Handy (guitar) and Dempsey Young (mandolin).
Began recording in 1976 on the Outlet label, then were signed to Rebel Records in 1980.
On the name, says Mills, “At the time we started this band, all of us were lost in other bands; but we found each other through a mutual love for bluegrass music.”
Bass player and bandleader Allen Mills previously worked with the Easter Brothers and a country group called the T-Birds. As a songwriter, he is best known for “Love of the Mountains,” which has become a bluegrass standard.
Mills and Young formed the core of the group and preserved it’s sound. Other band members have included over the years Ronnie Bowman, Barry Berrier, Shane Bartley, Greg Luck, Jody King, Lynwood Lunsford, John Lewis, Scottie Sparks, Ben Green, Steve Wilson and others.
1992, released January Rain album (Rebel).
1994, released Hymn Time album (Rebel).
1994, released “Just Pickin'” album (Copper Creek)
1994, released a “best of”‘album Classic Bluegrass(Rebel).
1995, released A Ride Through the Country album (Rebel).
1996, released Across the Blue Ridge Mountains album (Rebel).
2002, released It’s About Time album (Rebel).
2006, mandolinist Dempsey Young died from an apparent suicide.
2009, released Love, Lost and Found album (Rebel).
2011, released Down On Sawmill Road album (Rebel).
2014 lineup: Mills (bass), Dan Wells (guitar), Ronald Smith (banjo) and Scott Napier (mandolin).

Lost Highway

Posted on December 3, 2013March 3, 2019 by WR

LOST HIGHWAY

From Southern California (Riverside County).
1974, the original band was formed by Dave Dickey (guitar), Walden Dahl (mandolin), Pat Brayer (fiddle), Nick Haney (bass) and Lauren Seapy (banjo).
1978, Dahl and Brayer left the band. Jerry Service (fiddle) joined and band leader Dickey switched to playing mandolin. Guitarist Ken Orrick also joined and eventually became the band leader (after Dickey departed a couple of years later). Orrick was originally from Smithville, Tennessee. He previously played in a gospel group called the Premanaires, which included Faye DeMent (older sister of Iris DeMent).
1979, released “Hard Road to Travel” album (no label).
1981, Stuart Duncan (fiddle) joined the band, replacing original member and band leader Dave Dickey (mandolin).
1982, released “Lost Highway” album (no label), recorded at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas (Duncan was a student there at the time).
1983, Duncan left the band to join Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers. He was replaced by Jeff Harvey (mandolin).
1985, released “Memories of the Past” album (no label).
1987, the group disbanded and then re-united in 1996. Members of the “new” Lost Highway included Ken Orrick (guitar) and Jeff Harvey (mandolin) who were with the group previously. New members: Dick Brown (banjo), Paul Shelasky (fiddle) and Marshall Andrews (bass).
1998, released “November Rain” album (no label)
1999, released Headin Down That Lost Highway album (Hay Holler).
2000, mandolinist Harvey was replaced by Eric Uglum.
2000, released Lifetime of Sorrow album (Hay Holler).
2004, Andrews and Shelasky left the band and were replaced by Joe Ash (bass) and Mike Tatar, Jr. (fiddle).
2004, released Bluegrass the Way You Like It album (Hay Holler).
2006, they performed in Oman (southeastern coast of the Arabian peninsula).
2007-2009, Orrick continued to perform with various part-time musicians but largely was unable to keep the band together due to his failing health. He died in 2009 at the age of 68.

Loudermilk, Edgar

Posted on December 3, 2013February 5, 2024 by WR

EDGAR LOUDERMILK

From Eastanolee, Georgia.
Has been playing the bass since age 9.
He is related to the Louvin Brothers (their given names are Ira and Charles Loudermilk).
2001, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage
2002, joined Marty Raybon and Full Circle.
2007, joined Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out.
2011, released solo project Roads Traveled (Mountain Fever).
2013, released second solo project My Big Chance Tomorrow (Mountain Fever).
2013, announced that he was leaving IIIrd Tyme Out to pursue his career as a solo artist and songwriter.
2013, formed a duo with Dave Adkins.
2015, formed a new group with guitarist Jeff Autry, The Edgar Loudermilk Band featuring Jeff Autry.
2016, released Georgia Maple album (Pinecastle).
2019, released Lonesome Riverboat Blues album (Rural Rhythm).
2024, won SPBGMA’s Bass Player of the Year award and added Jake Goforth (guitar) to his band. Other band members: Zack Autry (mandolin) and Anthony Howell (banjo).

Louvin Brothers, The

Posted on December 3, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

THE LOUVIN BROTHERS

From Henegar, Alabama (on Sand Mountain).
Brothers Ira and Charlie Loudermilk began singing together as teenagers in the 1940’s. They later changed their performing name to Louvin and became one of the most popular brother duets in country music during the 50’s and 60’s.
1955, joined the Grand Ole Opry.
Changes in the country music industry coupled with Ira’s alcoholism and erratic behavior led to a breakup in 1963. Charlie continued performing as a solo artist and had several chart-topping singles including “See the Big Man Cry” and “I Don’t Love You Anymore.”
Ira died in an auto accident on Father’s Day, 1965.
Charlie formed a duo for several with Charles Whitstein (of the Whitstein Brothers), recreating the duet harmonies of the Louvin Brothers.
Many of their songs have become bluegrass standards: “I Don’t Believe You’ve Met My Baby,” “I Wish You Knew” and “Ashes of Love” to name a few.
1992, The Louvin Brothers were honored with an IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award for their lifetime contributions to bluegrass music.
1994, Charlie recorded a bluegrass album called “Bluegrass Style” (Niptune).
2010, Charlie authored a book titled Satan Is Real: The Ballad of the Louvin Brothers.
Charlie died January 26, 2011.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Complete Recorded Works: 1952-62 (Enlightenment)
Louvin Brothers – 20 All Time Greatest Hits (TeeVee)
Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’: Songs of the Louvin Brothers (featuring various artists/Universal)
Satan is Real (Capitol, 1996)

Love Canon

Posted on November 6, 2013May 15, 2020 by WR

LOVE CANON

From Charlottesville, Virginia.
Formed in 2010 by Jesse Harper (guitar) and Adam Larabee (banjo). They were joined by Andy Thacker (mandolin), Darrell Muller (bass) and Nate Leath (fiddle).
Larabee teaches music at the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University. He is also a former member of Joy Kills Sorrow.
Harper teaches music at Woodberry Forest School. He is a former member of Old School Freight Train.
They play covers of popular 80’s songs.
2012, released two albums: “Greatest Hits” and “Greatest Hits Volume 2.”

Loveless, Patty

Posted on December 3, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

PATTY LOVELESS

From Pikeville, Kentucky (lives in Nashville.)
Began her professional music career as a teenager singing with the Wilburn Brothers. Her name was Patricia Ramey at the time. She married the Wilburn’s drummer, Terry Loveless upon graduation from high school.
Had dozens of #1 country hits including “You Can Feel Bad (If It Makes You Feel Better),” “How Can I Help You Say Goodbye,” etc.
1988, became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
As of 2001, has won 19 CMA Awards including the Horizon Award (twice), Female Vocalist of the Year (seven times), Album of the Year (four times), Single of the Year (three times), Vocal Event of the Year (four times).
2001, recorded her first bluegrass album Mountain Soul and appeared on the Down from the Mountain tour with many bluegrass and traditional artists.
2002, co-hosted (with Ricky Skaggs) the IBMA Awards Show.
2009, released Mountain Soul II (Saguaro Road).
2010, released Christmas album Bluegrass & White Snow: A Mountain Christmas (Saguaro Road).
2011, won the Bluegrass Grammy for Mountain Soul II.
“

Lovell Sisters, The

Posted on December 3, 2013December 1, 2015 by WR

THE LOVELL SISTERS

From Calhoun, Georgia.
Three sisters: (ages in 2009) Jessica, fiddle (23), Megan, Dobro™(19) and Rebecca, mandolin (18).
They have often been compared to the Dixie Chicks.
2006, released first album When Forever Rolls Around (2DefPigs).
2009, appeared on the Grand Ole Opry; released Time To Grow album (2DefPigs).
2010, Jessica left the group and the two remaining sisters (Megan and Rebecca) renamed their act “Larkin Poe,” after a distant relative. They also began transitioning to a more folk-rock sound.

LowCountry Boil Bluegrass Band

Posted on December 3, 2013December 1, 2015 by WR

LOWCOUNTRY BOIL BLUEGRASS BAND

From Bluffton, South Carolina (the “lowcountry” of South Carolina, near Hilton Head).
Formed in 1998 by members of a rock band called Daly Planet.
They call their music “bluegrass on crack.” A fusion of rock and bluegrass.
Have opened for Vassar Clements, Donna the Buffalo, the David Nelson Band.
2015, released Strings & Envy album (no label).

Lowe, Andy

Posted on August 5, 2023 by WR

ANDY LOWE

From Apex, North Carolina.
He has performed with a number of bands including the Rockford Express, the Loose Cannons, and the Jeannette Williams band.
2011, won the banjo championship at the Old Fiddlers Convention at Galax, Virginia.
2014, released Motley album (no label).
2015, joined the Deer Creek Boys.
2022, won for the second time the banjo championship at the Old Fiddlers Convention at Galax, Virginia.
2022, signed a record deal with Mountain Fever Records.
2023, released Nervous Energy album (Mountain Fever).

Lowell, John

Posted on October 1, 2019October 27, 2019 by WR

JOHN LOWELL

From Livingston, Montana.
He is a singer/songwriter who has been a member of numerous bands: Medicine Wheel, Wheel Hoss, Deep River, Kane’s River, Loose Ties, the Growling Old Men (with Ben Winship), the John Lowell Band (a European touring group), Two Bit Franks and the Lone Mountain Trio.
He worked as a purchasing agent for Gibson musical instruments.
2012, released solo project I Am Going to the West (no label).
2019, released The Long Stretch of Gravel album (Beartooth).

Luberecki, Ned

Posted on December 3, 2013February 2, 2024 by WR

NED LUBERECKI

From Baltimore, Maryland; lives in Nashville.
Nickname: “Nedski.”
Has played banjo with Tony Trischka’s Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular Band, The Rarely Herd, Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, The Jim Hurst Band, Radio Flyer, Paul Adkins & The Borderline Band and the Apocalyptic Cowboys.
2003, joined Chris Jones and the Night Drivers.
2010, recorded and toured with guitarist Stephen Mougin as Nedski and Mojo.
He is a DJ on Sirius/XM’s Bluegrass Junction. He is also the backstage announcer for the IBMA Awards Show.
2016, joined the Becky Buller Band full-time.
2018, won the IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.
2023, won the IBMA Award for Broadcaster of the Year.
2024, was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.

Luck, Greg

Posted on December 2, 2013October 6, 2014 by WR

GREG LUCK

From Pinehurst, North Carolina.
A multi-instrumentalist, he learned to play all the bluegrass instruments at a very high level as a teenager.
1986, joined Redwing upon graduation from high school.
1989, joined the Lost and Found, playing banjo.
1991-2, worked with the Lynn Morris Band.
1993, joined the Bluegrass Cardinals, playing guitar and fiddle (after Clay Jones joined them.)
Also a successful songwriter. Co-wrote “The Healing Kind” with Ronnie Bowman, which was recorded by Ronnie and also Dan Seals, LeAnn Womack.
1997, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South, playing guitar, singing lead.
Has his own recording studio. Has engineered recordings by Lou Reid and Carolina, Mark Newton, Country Gentlemen, many others.
2002, joined Third Tyme Out, playing fiddle.
2005, joined the Circuit Riders.
2011, joined HeartTown.
2014, joined Sideline.

Lunsford, Lynwood

Posted on December 2, 2013January 22, 2024 by WR

LYNWOOD LUNSFORD

From Axton, Virginia.
1978-1983, played banjo with the Country Cousins (with his father and two cousins).
1984-1985, Stoney Run with Kim Gardner
1985-1987, Big Sandy
1987-1989, James King Band
1990-1991, Jimmy Martin and the Sunny Mountain Boys
1991-1996, the Lost and Found
1997-1998, Sand Mountain
1998, formed a group called Savannah with Bubba Chandler.
1999, formed Lynwood Lunsford and the Misty Valley Boys. Recorded several albums for Hay Holler Records.
2006, joined Big Country Bluegrass.
2021, joined The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band.

Lundy, Ted

Posted on December 2, 2013December 1, 2015 by WR

TED LUNDY (AND THE SOUTHERN MOUNTAIN BOYS)

From Wilmington, Delaware, near the Pennsylvania border; originally from Galax, Virginia.
A renowned banjo player and band leader of the 1960’s and 70’s.
Appeared frequently with Alex and Ola Belle and the New River Boys on WWVA radio, Wheeling, West Virginia.
Won many first-place awards at the Galax Fiddler’s Conventions of the 1960’s.
Teamed up with guitarist Bob Paisley in the 1970’s, forming Ted Lundy, Bob Paisley, and the Southern Mountain Boys.
Was a mentor to James King, whose father played in Lundy’s band in 1968.
1980, committed suicide by jumping off a bridge.
Lundy’s sons Bob and T.J. play with Dan Paisley (son of Bob Paisley) and the Southern Grass.
2012, a retrospective album was released Ted Lundy and the Southern Mountain Boys (no label).

Luquette, Chris

Posted on December 7, 2019December 7, 2019 by WR

CHRIS LUQUETTE

From Seattle, Washington. Lives in Brooklyn, NY.
A multi-instrumentalist who plays all the bluegrass instruments. He is best known for his guitar playing.
2008, formed a Seattle-based bluegrass band called Northern Departure.
2012, joined Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen.
2019, released solo project The Way I View the World (no label).

Keith-Hynes, Bronwyn

Posted on July 25, 2020October 21, 2024 by WR

BRONWYN KEITH-HYNES

From Charlottesville, Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
Began playing fiddle at age 3.
2014, won the National Fiddle Championship at Winfield, Kansas.
2014, was a founding member of the group Mile Twelve.
2018, won IBMA Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2020, joined Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway.
2020, released solo project Fiddler’s Pastime (Sugar Petunia).
2024, released album I Built a World (no label).
2024, married fiddler Jason Carter in a ceremony performed at the Grand Ole Opry.

Lynch, Claire

Posted on December 2, 2013October 1, 2019 by WR

CLAIRE LYNCH

Originally from Kingston, New York. Moved to Alabama at age 12.
1974, formed The Front Porch String Band in Birmingham, Alabama with husband Larry. Disbanded the group in 1982 to start a family.
Has sang on albums by Linda Rondstadt, John Starling, Pam Tillis, Ralph Stanley, Skip Ewing, Dolly Parton, Kathy Mattea, Emmy Lou Harris, Patty Loveless, many others.
Has written many songs recorded by such artists as Patty Loveless, the Whites, Kathy Mattea, The Seldom Scene, Pierce Pettis, Valerie Smith, others.
1990, began touring again with a reorganized Front Porch String Band.
1993, released Friends for a Lifetime album (Brentwood Music). Re-released in 1998 on Rounder Records.
1997, released Silver & Gold album (Rounder), nominated for a Grammy in the Best Bluegrass category.
2000, disbanded the Front Porch String Band once again to spend more time at home with her family.
2000, released Lovelight album (Rounder), nominated for a Grammy in the Best Bluegrass category.
2000-2002, toured with Dolly Parton, providing background vocals.
2005, returned to performing and recording with her own band.
2006, released New Day album (Rounder).
2007, released Crowd Favorites album (Rounder).
2009, released Whatcha Gonna Do album (Rounder).
2013, released Dear Sister album (Compass).
2013, won her third IBMA award for Female Vocalist of the Year (also won in 1997 and 2010).
2014, released Holiday! album (Thrill Hill).
2014, won IBMA awards for Song of the Year (for “Dear Sister,” co-written by Louisa Branscomb and Claire Lynch) and Recorded Event of the Year (for “Wild Montana Skies” with the Special Consensus and Rob Ickes).
2019, won IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year for “Gonna Sing, Gonna Shout,” written by Rick Lang.

Kelley, Irene

Posted on March 9, 2014October 3, 2020 by WR

IRENE KELLEY

From Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Lives in the Nashville area.
A prolific songwriter, her songs have been recorded by such artists as Alan Jackson, Trisha Yearwood, Loretta Lynn, Pat Green, Brother Phelps, Rhonda Vincent, Claire Lynch, Darrell Scott, The Whites, the Osborne Brothers and others.
1989, recorded a solo project on MCA Records which was never released except for one single “You Are a Rock.”
1999, released Simple Path (no label).
2003, released Thunderbird (no label).
2014, released Pennsylvania Coal (Patio), her first bluegrass album.
2018, released These Hills album (Mountain Fever).
2019, released Benny’s TV Repair album (Mountain Fever).

Kendall, Jeannie

Posted on December 2, 2013November 13, 2024 by WR

JEANNIE KENDALL

From St. Louis, Missouri.
1969, began performing with her father Royce in a popular country duo called “The Kendalls.”
1977, scored first number one hit record, “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away.” Won a Grammy (Best Country Vocal Performance) and a CMA Award for Single of the Year.
Recorded for now-defunct Ovation Records, also Mercury and MCA/Curb Records.
1998, the Kendalls signed with Rounder Records to record a bluegrass album but Royce died before the album was finished. Jeannie finished the album on her own and Jeannie Kendall was released in 2003.

Kentucky Colonels, The

Posted on December 2, 2013August 20, 2019 by WR

THE KENTUCKY COLONELS

A legendary California bluegrass band of the 1960’s featuring the White Brothers—Roland, Eric and Clarence.
The White brothers were born in Maine to French Canadian parents. (There were 17 White children altogether.) They moved to Southern California in the 1950’s.
Originally called themselves The Country Boys (1956).
As youngsters, they won a talent contest which landed them a job as regulars on a Los Angeles television show called “The Town Hall Party.”
1957, banjo player Billy Ray Lathum joined the band which was re-named The Kentucky Colonels.
1959, began playing regularly at the Ash Grove, one of L.A.’s most prestigious folk clubs. Fiddler Scott Stoneman was added and Eric White was replaced by Roger Bush on bass. LeRoy Mack (McNees) also joined the group, playing Dobro™.
1960, appeared on one episode of the Andy Griffith TV Show. (Replaced in later episodes by the Dillards.)
1964, released Appalachian Swing album (World Pacific).
1964, released Long Journey Home album (reissued on Vanguard in 1991).
1964, released Livin’ in the Past album (live recordings released 1975 on Sierra Records).
1966, broke up.
1973, they reunited for a European tour, with Herb Pederson playing banjo.
Clarence became a session musician in L.A. and later joined the Byrds. He died in 1973 at the age of 29 in an auto accident. He is credited with bringing the guitar into prominence as a lead instrument in bluegrass. Tony Rice was inspired by Clarence and now owns Clarence’s Martin D-28 guitar.
Roland went on to work with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass, The Country Gazette and The Nashville Bluegrass Band.
Billy Ray Lathum joined the Dillards in the 1970’s and worked with Herb Pederson in an L.A. band The Laurel Canyon Ramblers. He also had a San Diego-based group called Banjovi.
Roger Bush joined fiddler Byron Berline to form The Country Gazette.
LeRoy Mack formed a gospel group called Born Again Bluegrass and later, Gloryland. He has also recorded several solo projects and continues to tour, performing at festivals and churches.
2016, Clarence White was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2017, Roland White was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2019, the Kentucky Colonels (as a band) were inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Kentucky Gentlemen, The

Posted on December 28, 2013February 11, 2016 by WR

THE KENTUCKY GENTLEMEN

From Kentucky.
Formed in 1973 by Marvin Davis (mandolin), Dennis Barret (guitar, lead vocals), Ralph King (banjo), Avery Gabbard (bass) and Roger Smith (fiddle). Glenn Duncan also played fiddle with this band.
1974, released “Headin’ South” album on Pine Tree Records.
1975, released “True Bluegrass” album on King Bluegrass Records.
1976, released “A Day in October” album on King Bluegrass Records.
1977, released “Kentucky Heritage” album on King Bluegrass Records.
1978, released “Most Requested” album on Old Homestead Records.
1982, released “New Time” album on Old Homestead Records.
1982, released “Who Will Open the Church Door” album on Old Homestead Records.

Kentucky Just Us

Posted on August 7, 2023 by WR

KENTUCKY JUST US

From Glasgow, Kentucky.
A family band including brother and sister Kacey and Caleb O’Neal (fiddle/mandolin), mom Shelane O’Neal (bass) and dad Terry O’Neal (manager/bus driver/soundman). Other members: Jesse Meador (banjo) and Justus Ross (guitar).
Their name was chosen because they wanted to just “be themselves.” Hence, Kentucky Just Us.
Meador’s brother John of Authentic Unlimited was a former member of this band.
2022, Meador won the Walnut Valley 50th Anniversary National Banjo Championship and Ross placed second in the National Flat-Pick Guitar Championship.
2022, released Mountains of Home album (no label).

Kickin’ Grass

Posted on December 2, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

KICKIN’ GRASS

From Raleigh, North Carolina.
Members: Lynda Dawson (guitar), Jamie Dawson (mandolin), Ben Walters (banjo), Patrick Walsh (bass), Matt Hooper (fiddle).
Formed in 2000, as backup group for the Chapel Hill Cloggers.
2003, won a talent contest in Raleigh and used prize money to finance their first recording Backroads (2004, no label), produced by Steve Dilling of IIIrd Tyme Out.
2005, released On the Short Rows album (no label).
2008, released Kickin Grass Band album (no label).
2012, released Walk With Me album (Superfan) featuring a more progressive sound.

Kilby, Cody

Posted on December 2, 2013November 11, 2015 by WR

CODY KILBY

From Nashville, Tennessee
Two time Juvenile National Banjo, Guitar and Mandolin Champion.
Signed an endorsement contract with Gibson at age ten.As a teenager, won the Kentucky State Banjo Championship, the Georgia State Banjo Championship and both the Winfield National Guitar and Mandolin championships.
1993, appeared at the IBMA Awards Show as part of the Bluegrass Youth All-Stars.
1996, worked with the band High Lonesome at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta
1997, appeared on TNN’s Prime Time Country with Dick Clark, Grandpa Jones and Loretta Lynn.
1997, released Just Me (Rebel Records), playing all the instruments (guitar, banjo, mandolin, bass and Dobro™).
2000, joined Sally Jones and the Sidewinders.
2001, joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, playing lead guitar.
2008, released solo project Many Roads Traveled (Rebel).
2015, joined The Traveling McCoury’s.

Kincaid, Jackie

Posted on December 2, 2013March 22, 2017 by WR

JACKIE KINCAID

From Meadowbrook, West Virginia.
Plays mandolin with the Cumberland Highlanders TV Show. Has also worked with Larry Sparks, Mac Wiseman, Wayne Lewis, Tom Ewing, Josh Graves, James Monroe, other bands.
1979, joined Larry Sparks’ band.
1982, performed at the World’s Fair in Knoxville.
2006-2012, joined Larry Sparks’ band a second time.
2007, released solo project Second Time Around (no label).
2008, released Where Did You Go? album (no label).
2012, a benefit concert was held at the Station Inn in Nashville to help him with medical expenses following back surgery.

Kimmel, Dick

Posted on December 2, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

DICK KIMMEL (AND COMPANY)

From Southcentral Minnesota.
Has played bluegrass music since the 1950’s with groups like Mountain Grass, Flint Hill Special, F&W String Band, Wild Turkey String Band, Southern Sounds of Grass, Kimmel, Rosenstein & Company, others.
Plays mandolin, guitar, and clawhammer banjo. Also a singer and songwriter.
Has written numerous articles and record reviews for Bluegrass Unlimited and other publications. Has written album liner notes for several artists, including Del McCoury.
Has a Ph.D in biology. Works as a wildlife biologist for Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources.
Hobby: wild turkey hunting.
Called “The Ambassador of Bluegrass” because of his international involvements in bluegrass music. He was chairman of the IBMA’s International Committee.
1992, released “Wild Turkey Rag” album (Copper Creek).
1994, released Road to Braemar album with Leo Rosenstein (Copper Creek).
1996, released Ramblin Away album by Kimmel, Rosenstein & Co. (Copper Creek).
1996, released 25 Year Collection album (Copper Creek), a collection of his recordings from 1969-1991.
2000, released Fishin’ Creek Blues: Clawhammer Banjo Recordings album (Copper Creek).
2005, released My Lord Keeps a Record album (Copper Creek).
2007, released Somebody Loves You Darlin’ album with Jerrilyn Kjellberg (Copper Creek).

King, James

Posted on December 1, 2013May 2, 2023 by WR

JAMES KING

From Cana, Virginia but lived most of his life in Amelia, Virginia at the foot of Fancy Gap Mountain.
Started playing rock music at age 12. Was a big fan of Alice Cooper, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and Steppenwolf. Then at age 15, someone turned him on to the Stanley Brothers. “That music was in my blood all the time, I just didn’t know it.”
He was a furniture refinisher by trade.
His father was a fiddler. He was also strongly influenced by Ted Lundy.
1982, played with a band called the Chesapeake Bay Boys.
1983, joined Dealer’s Choice
1985-8, joined the Blinky Moon Boys
1985, recorded with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.
1988, formed his first band: James King, Brian Wetzel and the Misty Valley Boys.
1989, released “It’s a Cold Cold World” album (Webco).
1991-1992, joined Big Country Bluegrass.
1993, released These Old Pictures album (Rounder).
1995, released Lonesome and Then Some album (Rounder).
1996, played the Grand Ole Opry for the first time.
1997, won the IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
1997, recorded with Dudley Connell, Marshall Wilburn, Don Rigsby, Joe Mullins and Glen Duncan in a group called Longview.
1998, released Bed By the Window album (Rounder).
2002, released Thirty Years of Farming album (Rounder).
2005, released The Bluegrass Storyteller album (Rounder).
2008, released Gardens In The Sky: The Bluegrass Gospel Of James King album (Rounder).
2013, released Three Chords & The Truth album (Rounder).
2016, died at the age of 58 after a long illness.

King James Boys

Posted on May 29, 2018September 20, 2024 by WR

THE KING JAMES BOYS

From Cowpens, South Carolina (near Spartanburg).
Formed in 1994 at their home church, Mountain View Baptist Church. They became known as the King James 1611 Boys, named after the King James edition of the Bible that was first published in 1611 (which is still widely used today.) They later dropped the “1611” from their band name.
Original band: Randy Spencer (guitar), Jeff Dover (bass), Jarred Spencer (mandolin), Kyle Atkins (mandolin), Derrick Mabry (Dobro™), David Mabry (banjo).
2015, released their “20 Year Compilation” album (no label) which featured highlights from their previous eight albums.
2016, released The Little End of Something Big album (Son Sound West).
2018 band members: Randy Spencer (guitar), Jeff Dover (vocals), Cole Spencer (bass), Milom Williams (mandolin), Curtis Lewis (banjo).
2018, released Time to Go Home album (Pinecastle).
2020, added Josh Greene (fiddle) to the band.
2020, released Living on a Promise album (Mountain Fever).
2022, released Walk on Faith album (Pinecastle)

King, Lori (& Junction 63)

Posted on August 5, 2023 by WR

LORI KING (AND JUNCTION 63)

From Bloomfield, Iowa.
1993, began performing (singing and playing bass) with a group called Bluegrass Addiction. Her husband Joe was also in that band.
She is the founder and director of Lori King Productions, which produces concerts, festivals and other music events in the midwest.
2014, formed her band Junction 63. Members include Lori King (bass), Joe King (guitar), Keven Amburgey (mandolin), David Brack (mandolin, guitar, fiddle) and Alex Riffle (banjo). Several of the band members live in Missouri.
She also fronts a country band called Midnight Blue.
2017, released “Family Tree” album (no label).
2021, released Walkin’ the Blues album (no label).
2023, released Watching the Corn Grow album (no label) featuring special guests Sammy Shelor, Darin & Brooke Aldridge and others.

King Wilkie

Posted on December 1, 2013January 21, 2016 by WR

KING WILKIE

From Charlottesville, Virginia (although no one in the band is actually from Virginia. Individually, the original band members are from Ohio, Wisconsin, New York, Maryland, North Carolina and Tennessee.)
Named after Bill Monroe’s favorite horse.
Formed in 2002 by Ted Pitney (guitar) and Reid Burgess (mandolin), both graduates of Kenyon College in Ohio.
Other band members: Abe Spear (banjo), Drew Breakey (bass), Nick Reeb (fiddle), John McDonald (guitar).
2003, released True Songs album (no label).
2003, released Broke album (Rebel Records).
2004, won IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2005, began their move towards a country-rock sound reminiscent of the Byrds and Flying Burrito Brothers.
2007, released Low Country Suite album (Zoe).
2009, released The Wilkie Family Singers, a concept album featuring guests Peter Rowan, David Bromberg, John McEuen, Abigail Washburn and others.

King, Jody

Posted on December 1, 2013December 1, 2013 by WR

JODY KING

From North Carolina.
Has played banjo with the Lost and Found, After Five, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time, New Vintage, other bands.
1998, joined New Vintage.
Toured with the Lonesome River Band as their sound technician.
1999, released first solo album “Another Day.”
He is a luthier and has his own line of banjos and guitars.

Knopf, Bill

Posted on December 1, 2013November 29, 2021 by WR

BILL KNOPF

From Van Nuys, California.
Banjo player of many styles: bluegrass, swing, jazz, pop, rock and ragtime.
1977, released Bill Knopf on Banjo with Hot Off The Press and Friends album (American Heritage).
1979, released “San Andreas Quickstep” album (Ridgerunner).
1993, released “Pacific Swing” album (First Inversion)
1993, released “Bill Knopf Plays Scott Joplin on 5-string Banjo” album (First Inversion).
1994, released “John Philip Sousa Marches Performed on 5-string Banjo” album (First Inversion)
He was a member of Doc Severinson’s Las Vegas show band (1979-1985) and was a regular performer at Disneyland
He has written several banjo instruction books.
2019, he has been playing banjo with Phil Salazar and the Kin Folk.

Knoxville Grass, The

Posted on December 1, 2013March 7, 2019 by WR

THE KNOXVILLE GRASS

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1976. Early members were Jimmy Millsapps (banjo), Glenn Laney (guitar & banjo), Paul Brewster (guitar), Darryl Wolfe (mandolin), Mike Davis (bass). Mark Newton (mandolin), Gary Ferguson (banjo & guitar), Byron Doss (fiddle) and Karl Tomasso (bass) were later members of this band.
Home base: Buddy’s Bar-B-Q in Knoxville, where they performed regularly.
1977, released self-titled album on Atteiram Records.
1978, released “Darby’s Castle” album (Thunderhead).
1979, released “Evolution” album (Thunderhead).
1980, released “Live at Buddy’s Barbecue” (Vasari).
1981, released “Painted Lady” album (Leather).
Newton left to form the Virginia Squires. He has since performed and recorded as a solo artist.
Brewster went on to work with the Pinnacle Boys, the Osborne Brothers and Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
1997, Laney formed a new group called The Knoxville Bluegrass Band.
2000, they re-united to play the Graves Mountain Bluegrass Festival (produced by Mark Newton).
2001, Laney died of cancer.

Kohrs, Randy

Posted on December 1, 2013October 17, 2022 by WR

RANDY KOHRS

From New Virginia, Iowa. Lives in Nashville.
Began performing at age 8.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments but is best known as a Dobro™ player. He is well known as a top Nashville session musician and producer. He has toured and recorded with many of the top country acts.
As a teenager, he played with a Missouri bluegrass band called Possum Trot.
1995, moved to Nashville and got a job with Tom T. Hall.
1998, joined David Parmley, Scott Vestal and Continental Divide.
2000, joined the John Cowan Band.
2001, released first solo album Crack in My Armour (Junction) and formed his own band The Lites.
2002, toured with Dolly Parton.
2004, released second solo project I’m Torn (Lonesome Day).
2007, released Old Photograph album (Rural Rhythm).
2009, released Quicksand album (Rural Rhythm).
He is also a recording engineer and producer, owner of Slack Key studios in Nashville.

Krauss, Alison

Posted on December 1, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

ALISON KRAUSS (AND UNION STATION)

From Champaign, Illinois. Lives in Nashville.
Full name: Alison Maria Krauss.
Began playing country music when she was ten years old and bluegrass when she was 12.
Almost chose a career in the roller derby. “I couldn’t decide whether to play violin or roller-skate!” she said.
Won five state fiddle championships while she was in junior high school and the national fiddle championship at Winfield, Kansas at age 13.
1985, played fiddle with a group called “Classified Grass.”
1987, formed Union Station with bassist John Pennell.
1987, signed with Rounder and recorded her first solo album at age 16 (Too Late to Cry).
1989 (at age 17), toured nationally with “Masters of the Folk Violin” (also included Kenny Baker and Michael Doucet).
1993, joined the Grand Ole Opry. She became the first bluegrass artist to join the Opry in 29 years (since Jim and Jesse) and the youngest at age 21.
1994, toured with Garth Brooks and Dwight Yoakum.
1995, Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection became the first bluegrass album to sell a million copies (certified platinum).
1995, won her 4th IBMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year (also won in 1990, 1991, 1993).
1995, she won her second IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year (also won in 1991).
1995, performed at the White House for President Bill Clinton, Vice President Al Gore and other dignitaries.
She has appeared on soundtracks for numerous movies: “Twister” (1996), “Prince of Egypt” (1998), “O Brother, Where Art Thou” (2000), “Cold Mountain” (2004), others.
2000, produced Nickel Creek’s debut album.
2001, won an IBMA award for Gospel Recording of the Year (duet with Gillian Welch “I’ll Fly Away” from the “O Brother, Where Art Thou” soundtrack).
2003, won an IBMA award for Album of the Year (Alison Krauss & Union Station – Live)
2004, recorded “Whiskey Lullaby” with Brad Paisley which went to #1 on the country charts for several weeks.
2005, she co-hosted the IBMA Awards Show for the third time (with Ricky Skaggs). She co-hosted previously with Dan Tyminski (2003, 2004).
2005, won her sixth CMA Award. She has won awards for “Album of the Year,” “Female Vocalist of the Year”, “Single of the Year,” “Song of the Year,” “Horizon Award” and “Vocal Event of the Year.”
2007, recorded and toured with Led Zepellin’s Robert Plant.
2009 (July), performed for President Barack and Michelle Obama at the White House.
2012, won her 27th Grammy Award, tying her with Quincy Jones for the most Grammy wins. She holds the record for the most Grammy wins by a female artist (she overtook Aretha Franklin in 2004).
2019, was awarded the National Medal for the Arts by President Donald Trump in a ceremony at the White House.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Too Late to Cry (Rounder, 1987)
I’ve Got That Old Feeling (Rounder, 1990)
Every Time You Say Goodbye (Rounder, 1992)
I Know Who Holds Tomorrow (Rounder, 1994) with the Cox Family.
Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection (Rounder, 1995).
So Long So Wrong (Rounder 1997)
Forget About It (Rounder, 1999)
New Favorite (Rounder, 2001)
Alison Krauss & Union Station – Live (Rounder, 2003)
Lonely Runs Both Ways (Rounder 2005)
A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection (Rounder 2007)
Raising Sand (Rounder, 2007) with Robert Plant. This is a more Americana than bluegrass.
Paper Airplane (Rounder, 2011)

Krüger Brothers, The

Posted on December 1, 2013August 20, 2024 by WR

THE KRÜGER BROTHERS

From Switzerland; Currently live in North Carolina.
Billed as “Americana from the Heart of Europe.”
The brothers are Uwe (guitar) and Jens (banjo). The third “brother” is bass player Joel Landsberg.
1973, began performing together in Switzerland as teen-aged street musicians.
First band: “Undertaker Skiffle Company.”
1981, recorded on CBS records as “Rocky Road.”
1982, Jens played banjo with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys. Was the first European to play the Grand Ole Opry.
1992-1995, hosted their own national radio program in Switzerland.
1998, released Travel the Gravel album (Double Time).
1998, released “Jens Kruger: Profile” album (Double Time).
1998, invited by Doc Watson to play MerleFest for the first time.
2002, released Up 18 North album (Double Time).
2003, moved to North Carolina permanently.
2007, realized a lifelong ambition when they performed with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra to present the world premiere of “Music from the Spring: A Romantic Serenade for Banjo, Guitar, Bass & Orchestra” (orchestrated by Jens Krüger).
2010, released Christmas Magic With The Kruger Brothers album (Double Time Music).
2011, released Appalachian Concerto album (Double Time Music).
2012, released Best Of The Kruger Brothers album (Double Time Music).
2013, Jens was awarded the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass Music.
2015, a documentary film about the Krüger Brothers titled “Beautiful Nothing” (the name of one of Jens Kruger’s most popular compositions) was released.
2024, they made their Grand Ole Opry debut, 8/6/2024.

Kukuruza

Posted on December 1, 2013March 2, 2020 by WR

KUKURUZA

From Moscow, Russia.
The group formed in 1975 as a Russian folk band. Their first exposure to bluegrass was an early eighties tour of the Soviet Union by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. At the time they were called Ornament. They later changed their name to Kukuruza, which means “corn” in Russian.
During their bluegrass music years, they featured the vocals of Irina Surina who joined the group in 1989.
1992, released Kukuruza album (no label).
1993, released Crossing The Borders album (Sugar Hill Records).
Made several tours of the US and played the Grand Ole Opry.
1998, released Endless Story album (Gadfly Records).
The group eventually morphed into an electric band, playing the night clubs of Moscow and disbanded in 2006.

Kunimoto, Takeharu

Posted on December 1, 2013January 12, 2016 by WR

TAKEHARU KUNIMOTO (AND THE LAST FRONTIER)

From Tokyo, Japan.
Plays the a Japanese stringed instrument called the “Shami-sen” which resembles the banjo.
Studied bluegrass music for one year at East Tennessee State University (under the sponsorship of the Japanese government) and while there, recorded two albums (“Appalachian Shamisen” and “Sushi and Gravy”) with a band made up of ETSU faculty and students called “The Last Frontier.” He also performed on the 2005 IBMA Awards Show.
He is a well-known musician and storyteller in Japan. Owns and performs at the Tokyo Theatre in downtown Tokyo and was featured in the Academy Award nominated film “Mt. Head.” He is a regular on several Japanese TV soap operas and children’s programs.
2015, he died on Christmas eve at the age of 55.

JigJam

Posted on July 1, 2019March 27, 2024 by WR

JIGJAM

From Central Ireland (Tullamore, which is about halfway between Dublin on the east coast and Galway on the west coast).
Formed in 2013 by Jamie Keogh (guitar/tenor banjo), Daithi Nelia (5-string banjo/guitar), Cathal Guinan (bass/fiddle), Gavin Strappe (mandolin/tenor banjo).
They call their music I-Grass (short for Irish Bluegrass).
2014, released first album “Oh Boy” (no label).
2016, released “Hello World” album (no label).
2017, released “Live in Tullamore” album (no label).
2019, released “Phoenix” album (no label).
2023, made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.

Jim and Jesse

Posted on December 1, 2013June 24, 2023 by WR

JIM AND JESSE (AND THE VIRGINIA BOYS)

From Coeburn, Virginia.
They recorded more than 50 albums for Capitol, Columbia, Epic, Kentucky, CMH, Rounder, Opryland Old Dominion, Pinecastle.
First public appearance: 1941 in St. Paul, Virginia (an amateur talent contest).
First influence: grandfather Charlie McReynolds, a fiddler and member of the Bull Mountain Moonshiners.
They were heavily influenced by the Delmore Brothers.
First band: the Cumberland Mountain Boys (1947-1948).
First radio show: on WNVA in Norton, VA (1947).
First recording: a collection of Gospel songs with their 1950 group, The Virginia Trio (which eventually became The Virginia Boys.)
1952, recorded for Capitol in the historic Tulane Hotel in Nashville. The Virginia Boys included Sonny James on fiddle and Curley Seckler on guitar.
1962, performed their first song on the Opry: “I’ll Never Love Anybody But You.” Jesse wrote the song as a joke (intended to be a rock and roll song) but it caught on and became a hit.
1964, joined the Grand Ole Opry.
1966-7, had their own syndicated TV show, sponsored by Martha White.
1966, to expand their audience, they recorded an album of Chuck Berry songs called “Berry Pickin’ in the Country.” It flopped.
1967, had their only “top 10” song on the country charts– “Diesel on My Tail.”
1969, Jesse played mandolin on an album by The Doors.
Close friends with the Louvin Brothers. Jesse and Charlie Louvin were in the army together during the Korean war. 1982, Jim and Jesse recorded a trio album with Charlie.
Jesse has a trademark style of playing the mandolin which has become widely known as “McReynolds-style mandolin.” It is a distinctive cross-picking style which Jesse developed while trying to make his mandolin emulate the sound of the bluegrass-style banjo.
1993, they were inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
They were also inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame’s “Walkway of Stars,” the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame, and Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Hall of Fame.
1996, Jesse McReynolds married Joy Tipton.
March 29, 1997, celebrated 50 years in music with a celebration at the Grand Ole Opry House.
September, 1997, received a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship award from First Lady Hillary Clinton at the White House.
1998, Jesse’s grandson Luke McKnight joined the Virginia Boys.
2002, Jim McReynolds died of cancer on New Year’s Eve at the age of 75.
2003, Jesse re-organized the Virginia Boys with Charles Whitstein singing his brother’s parts. Bobby Hicks also joined the band, playing fiddle.
2004, Jesse released A Tribute to Brother Duets with Charles Whitstein (Pinecastle).
2007, Jesse released Bending the Rules album (OMS).
2008, Jesse began hosting a weekly radio show from his family farm and music theatre (The Pick Inn) on WHIN, Gallatin, Tennessee.
2010, Jesse released Jesse McReynolds and Friends: Songs of the Grateful Dead album (Woodstock).
2018, Jesse was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Glenville (West Virginia) State College.
2019, Jesse released Jesse McReynolds and Friends: Play the Bull Mountain Moonshiner’s Way (Pinecastle) at age 90.
2023, Jesse died at the age of 94.

Johnson, Billie Renee’

Posted on February 10, 2017 by WR

BILLIE RENEE’ JOHNSON

From Mt. Sterling, Kentucky.
She grew up singing with her family gospel group.
1996, graduated from college with a degree in criminology.
1997, formed her own band Billie Renee’ and Cumberland Gap.
2006, won the band competition at SPBGMA.
2017, released Songs from the Heart album (Truegrass).

Johnson, Bob

Posted on December 1, 2013October 13, 2018 by WR

BOB JOHNSON

From Chattanooga, Tennessee.
An innovative banjo player who recorded two popular banjo albums in the 1960’s: “Twelve Shades of Bluegrass” (Parkway) and “New Sounds in Bluegrass: Bluegrass Banjo with Strings” (MGM).
1958, worked briefly with Bill Monroe.
1959-1960, worked with Walter Forbes and the Lonesome Travelers, making frequent guest appearances on the Grand Old Opry. Norman Blake was also in that band.
During the 60’s, he was an A-list studio musician, playing banjo on such hits as the Statler Brothers “Flowers on the Wall.”
Retired from music in 1967.

Johnson Mountain Boys, The

Posted on December 1, 2013February 6, 2024 by WR

THE JOHNSON MOUNTAIN BOYS

From Washington, D.C. area (Gaithersburg, Maryland).
Formed in 1975 as a duet featuring Dudley Connell on banjo and Ron Welch on guitar. Connell eventually switched to guitar and added other musicians to form a full bluegrass band: Ed D’Zmura (guitar, mandolin), Eddie Stubbs (fiddle), Richard Underwood (banjo), Larry Robbins (bass). Over the years, the band also included David McLaughlin (mandolin), Tom Adams (banjo) and Marshall Wilborn (bass).
There is no such place as Johnson Mountain. Connell originally named the band The Johnson Boys because it just sounded good, but later added “Mountain” because he discovered a folk group already had the Johnson Boys name.
While they were together, they performed in some of the nation’s most prestigious venues: Madison Square Garden, The White House, the Lincoln Center and the Grand Ole Opry. Also toured England, Japan, and Africa.
1981, released “The Johnson Mountain Boys” album (Rounder).
1982, released “Walls of Time” album (Rounder).
1983, released Working Close album (Rounder).
1983, released Live At the Birchmere album (Rounder).
1985, released “We’ll Still Sing On” album (Rounder).
1987, released Let the Whole World Talk album (Rounder).
1987, released Favorites album (Rounder).
1988, released Requests album (Rounder).
1988, broke up and recorded a “final” performance in Lucketts, VA, released as At the Old School House (Rounder).
1991, After doing several reunion shows, the group decided to re-emerge as a part-time band.
1993, released Blue Diamond album (Rounder).
1994, broke up for good.
Connell (guitar) took a job with the Smithsonian Institution as director of the Folkways Record Collection. In 1995 he joined the Seldom Scene as guitarist and lead singer. He also worked with Hazel Dickens and the part-time band Longview.
Eddie Stubbs (fiddle) moved to Nashville in 1995 where he took a job as fiddle player with Johnny Wright and Kitty Wells, and also became a DJ and Grand Ole Opry announcer on WSM-AM. He won the CMA award for Broadcast Personality of the Year in 2002. He has also won that award twice from the IBMA (1996, 2002).
David McLaughlin (mandolin) formed a duo with Josh Crowe and has worked with several other bands.
Tom Adams (banjo) went on to work with the Lynn Morris Band, Blue Highway, Rhonda Vincent, Dale Ann Bradley, Bill Emerson and other bands.

Johnson, David

Posted on December 1, 2013October 23, 2024 by WR

DAVID JOHNSON

From Purlear (near Wilkesboro), North Carolina.
A multi-instrumentalist and studio musician who performs primarily gospel music.
1981, formed a band called Dixie Dawn.
1996, released solo project “Wooden Offerings.”
1997, released solo project Praises, Promises and Prayers (Mountain Home). He played all the instruments on both of his solo albums.
1999, won award for Studio Musician of the Year from the Southern Gospel Music Association.
2000, released Many Roads to Home album (Mountain Home).

Johnson, Mark

Posted on December 1, 2013December 7, 2020 by WR

MARK JOHNSON

From Garrison, New York. Lives in Crystal River, Florida.
Plays clawhammer-style banjo.
Calls his music “Clawgrass” and also named his backup group (formed in 1996) Clawgrass.
Took up the banjo in 1971, learned from fiddler Jay Unger (composer of “Ashokan Farewell”).
Works for Florida Power Authority at its Crystal River Facility. While working there, he met Larry Rice and his brothers Tony, Ronnie and Wyatt. In 1993, they recorded an album together at Tony’s home.
1997, released Bridging the Gap album (Pinecastle).
1999, formed a duo with mandolinist Emory Lester.
2002, released Acoustic Campaign album with Emory Lester (Bangtown).
2006, released Acoustic Rising album with Emory Lester (Mountain Home).
2012, released Acoustic Vision album with Emory Lester (no label).
2012, won the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass and appeared with Steve on Late Night with David Letterman (CBS).

Johnson, Merl

Posted on December 1, 2013June 8, 2016 by WR

MERL JOHNSON

From Woodbridge, Virginia. Lives in Asheville, North Carolina.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments but is best known as a mandolin/fiddle player with Travers Chandler & Avery County.
First performed on the radio at age 6.
Has worked with such artists as Dave Evans, James King, Frank Wakefield, Charlie Waller, the Stoneman Sisters, Gillis Brothers, Junior Sisk, Don Stover, Joe Meadows, Bobby Hicks, Buzz Busby and Bill Harrell.
2012, released solo album A Better Man on Patuxent Records.

Joines, Danny

Posted on December 22, 2020 by WR

DANNY JOINES

From Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. Lives and works in Nashville.
1992, won the Kentucky State Harmonica Championship. He also has won numerous fiddle contests and plays all the bluegrass instruments plus many others (piano, saxophone, drums, etc.)
He is the band manager and tour director for Christian Davis. He has also toured with John Schneider, Cross Country, and Masters Voice.
2020, released single “There’s a High Lonesome Sound,” a tribute to Bill Monroe.

Jones, Al

Posted on June 23, 2014March 8, 2024 by WR

AL JONES (AND THE SPRUCE MOUNTAIN BOYS)

From Whitetop, Virginia.
Early 1960’s, played guitar with Earl Taylor’s Stoney Mountain Boys.
1965, teamed up with banjo player Frank Necessary as Al Jones, Frank Necessary and the Spruce Mountain Boys. They recorded several albums for Rounder, Old Homestead Records. Necessary died in 2011.
1987, released “Frank Necessary, Al Jones and Buzz Busby” on Old Homestead Records.
2014, released Hard Core Bluegrass album (Mountain Fever) at the age of 81.
2018, released Just a Memory album (Patuxent).
2024, died at the age of 92.

Jones, Chris

Posted on November 30, 2013September 28, 2023 by WR

CHRIS JONES (AND THE NIGHT DRIVERS)

From Pomona, New York (near Buffalo). Lives in Franklin, Tennessee.
During his teen years, played oboe in the school orchestra.
He and Ron Block (of Union Station, and a former bandmate in Weary Hearts) are married to sisters from Canada.
Because he sings in a lower range, his music has been called “the low lonesome sound.”
His wife Sally also performed and recorded with her own band, the Sidewinders.
1978, at age 18, formed a band in New York called Horse Country.
1981-1985, joined The Special Consensus.
1985-1995, he worked with Dave Evans, Whetstone Run, Weary Hearts, The Lynn Morris Band and The Vassar Clements Band. He also worked with the McCarter Sisters, a country act.
1995, formed his band the Night Drivers, named for the night driving that bluegrass bands typically do to get from one gig to another.
1995, released Blinded by the Rose album (Strictly Country).
1997, released No One But You album (Rebel).
1998, released Follow Your Heart album (Rebel)
2000, broke his collarbone in a traffic accident in Canada.
2001, released Just a Drifter album (Rebel).
2001, became a full-time announcer for Sirius/XM Satellite Radio’s bluegrass music channel. He had previously hosted a bluegrass radio program in Franklin, Tennessee.
2002, released A Few Words album (Rebel).
2003, toured with the Chieftains and formed a new band called the Chris Jones Coalition with Jeremy and Glen Garrett (formerly of the Grasshoppers).
2005, changed his band name back to Chris Jones & the Night Drivers.
2007, won the IBMA award for Broadcast Personality of the Year as well as the IBMA award for Song of the Year (for “Fork in the Road” which he co-wrote with John Pennell and was recorded by the Infamous Stringdusters.)
2009, released Cloud of Dust album (GSM).
2011, began writing a regular column for Bluegrass Today (online news journal).
2012, released Lost Souls & Free Spirits album (Rebel).
2013, released Lonely Comes Easy album (Rebel).
2014, released Live At the Old Feed Store album (GSM).
2015, released Run Away Tonight album (Mountain Home).
2015, won IBMA Award for Broadcast Personality of the Year (for his work on Sirius/XM Radio).
2017, released Made to Move album (Mountain Home).
2019, released The Choosing Road album (Mountain Home).
2021, released Make Each Second Last album (Mountain Home).
2023, won IBMA Award for Writer of the Year for the second time (also won in 2014).

Jones, Clay

Posted on November 30, 2013February 24, 2016 by WR

CLAY JONES

From Mocksville, North Carolina (near Winston-Salem).
First public performance: at the Snuffy Jenkins Festival with a band called The Carolina Bluegrass Band
1991, moved to Japan and worked there as a musician, playing everything from jazz to bluegrass.
1992-1994, joined Lou Reid, Terry Baucom and Carolina as guitarist.
1994-1996, took a two-year hiatus from touring.
1995, played guitar on the “Bluegrass ’95” album which won the IBMA award for Instrumental Album of the Year in 1996.
1996-98, worked with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
1999, worked with the Gena Britt Band.
2000, worked with the Schankman Twins.
2003, joined Mountain Heart.
2005, released solo project Mountain Tradition (Rural Rhythm).
2007, left Mountain Heart to pursue solo projects, but rejoined the band 16 months later (December 2009)
2015, after a hiatus from music, he recorded an EP album titled “Heritage Not Hate” with his band Clay Jones and Pure Drive.

Jones, Curtis

Posted on January 20, 2016December 22, 2017 by WR

CURTIS JONES

From Dahlonega, Georgia.
“Known worldwide as the fastest acoustic guitarist alive.” (from his website). He also plays j
1993, toured with the Schankman Twins.
1995, toured with Bluegrass Etc.
He has released numerous solo albums including Blue As I (Pistol River) with guest musicians Shawn Lane, Tim Stafford, Missy Raines, Alison Brown, Dan Tyminski, Mike Compton, others.
He teaches music from his home in Georgia and performs as a solo artist as well as with various ensembles.

Jones, Sally

Posted on November 30, 2013 by WR

SALLY JONES (AND THE SIDEWINDERS)

From Alberta, Canada. Lives in Franklin, Tennessee.
After graduating from Trinity Western University in Vancouver, B.C., Canada, she married Chris Jones, who was a member of The Weary Hearts at the time. Her sister Sandra married Ron Block, who was also a member of that band.
Has a graduate degree in English.
First musical job: a background singer for Marie Osmond.
1994-1997, was a member of Petticoat Junction.
1997, joined Harley Allen’s band.
2000, recorded first solo project and formed her own band.

Jordan, Lorraine (and Carolina Road)

Posted on November 30, 2013November 19, 2021 by WR

LORRAINE JORDAN (AND CAROLINA ROAD)

From Garner, North Carolina.
Plays mandolin with her band Carolina Road.
Owns Lorraine’s Coffee House in Garner, North Carolina, featuring live bluegrass entertainment.
This Lorraine Jordan is NOT the popular Scottish singer/songwriter of the same name.
Recorded with The Daughters of Bluegrass, a multi-album project featuring women in bluegrass music.
2002, released “Mandolin Rose” album (West Station).
2005, released Road Trip for the Lord album (no label).
2006, released A Stop In Southport Towne album (Blue Circle).
2007, released Carolina Road album (Blue Circle).
2008, released Why Don’t You Give Jesus a Try album (Blue Circle).
2010, released “Ten Years of Hard Driving Bluegrass” album.
2010, released Carolina Hurricane album (Rural Rhythm).
2013, released Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road album (Pinecastle).
2015, released Country Grass album (Pinecastle) featuring guest appearances by Crystal Gayle, Lee Greenwood, Jim Ed Brown, Lynn Anderson, the Kentucky Headhunters, T.G. Sheppard, Eddy Raven and John Conlee.
2018, released True Grass Again album (Pinecastle).
2021, released I Can Go To Them album (Pinecastle).

Jordan, Tresa

Posted on November 30, 2013March 30, 2016 by WR

TRESA JORDAN

From Melrose, Florida (central Florida).
Moved to Nashville at age 19 to pursue a career in country music, her career was put on hold when she married and had children. Seven years later, after her divorce, she re-married and resumed her singing career.
2006, won a Momentum Award for Country Artist of the Year from Indiehaven.com (a popular Christian music music web community).

Jordan, Vic

Posted on November 30, 2013November 16, 2018 by WR

VIC JORDAN

From Washington, D.C.
1962, played banjo with a group called the Delta Ramblers in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
1964, moved to Nashville and worked with Jimmy Martin as well as Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper.
1967, joined Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
1969, joined Lester Flatt’s Nashville Grass. He was the first banjo player to work full time with Flatt after Earl Scruggs.
1971, joined Jim and Jesse.
As a Nashville session musician, he worked with Dolly Parton, Hank Williams Jr., the Oak Ridge Boys, Jerry Reed, Loretta Lynn and many others. He played banjo on movie soundtracks for “Coal Miner’s Daughter” and “Smoky and the Bandit.”
1973, released “Pickaway” album (Atteiram). His composition “Pickaway” was popularized by Mike Auldridge as a Dobro™ instrumental. It was named after a small town in West Virginia. Vic was driving Lester Flatt’s bus one night and Roland White spotted the “Pickaway, West Virginia” sign at three in the morning and suggested it to Vic as the name of his new banjo tune.
1978, released “Banjo Nashville” album (Sugar Hill)
1981, released “Greatest Christmas Songs of our Land” album (Power Pak).
1990-91, had his own band, Old Hickory.
1992, worked in the “Hee Haw” TV show band.
1995, worked with Wayne Newton in Las Vegas and Branson, Missouri.
1996, returned to Nashville to do session work.
2013, was presented with the IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
2016, died at the age of 77.

Jorgenson, John

Posted on January 27, 2019January 27, 2019 by WR

JOHN JORGENSON

From Redlands, California.
Began playing bass as a youngster, then gravitated to mandolin and guitar. He is well-known as one of the top guitarists in the world, and an authority on “Gypsy Jazz” music. He has worked with such artists as Earl Scruggs, Bonnie Raitt, Elton John, Bob Dylan and many others.
1985, was a founding member of the Desert Rose Band.
1990, 1991, won the Academy of Country Music Award for Guitarist of the Year.
1990, formed The Hellecasters, an electric guitar band.
1994-2000, worked with Elton John, touring and recording.
2004, formed the John Jorgenson Quintet, performing gypsy-jazz music.
2004, portrayed the legendary gypsy-jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt in the movie “Head in the Clouds” starring Charlize Theron and Penelope Cruz.
2014, formed the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band (or J2B2) with Herb Pederson (banjo), Jon Randall (guitar), and Mark Fain (bass). Jorgenson plays mandolin in the band.
2015, released a three-CD set Divertuoso (Cleopatra), which included a disc featuring the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band. That disc was later released as From the Crow’s Nest (Purple Pyramid). It was recorded at Sheryl Crow’s home studio.

Jutz, Thomm

Posted on December 13, 2017September 30, 2021 by WR

THOMM JUTZ

From Buehl, Germany. Lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Jutz is pronounced “Yootz.”
He learned guitar as a teenager and began performing country music in Germany in various cover bands.
Studied classical guitar at the Stuttgart Conservatory of Music.
2003, emigrated to the U.S. on a Diversity Immigrant Visa program.
After coming to Nashville, he worked with singer/songwriter Mary Gauthier and also with Nanci Griffith’s Blue Moon Orchestra, eventually producing an album for her. He has also worked with and produced albums for Bobby Bare, Maura O’Connell, David Olney, Kim Richey and others.
His songwriting credits include several bluegrass songs including “Around the Corner” (Terry Baucom & the Dukes of Drive) and “Carolina Wind” (Irene Kelley). He teaches a songwriting class at Belmont University.
2011, released The 1861 Project: From Farmers to Foot Soldiers, a three-album project featuring original songs about the American Civil War.
2016, with Peter Cooper, wrote and produced an album of songs about Mac Wiseman called Mac Wiseman: I Sang the Song (Mountain Fever).
2016, released a duet album with Craig Market called Nowhere to Hide (no label).
2017, released a bluegrass album of original songs called Crazy If You Let It (Mountain Fever).
2020, released To Live in Two Worlds, Volume 1 album (Mountain Home).
2021, won the IBMA Award for Songwriter of the Year.

Inaba, Kazuhiro

Posted on November 30, 2013January 20, 2016 by WR

KAZUHIRO INABA

From Osaka, Japan.
Began playing banjo at age 15, made first U.S. tour in 1982.
1983, won banjo contest at Galax Fiddle Convention, Virginia.
1993, released Goin’ Across the Sea album (Hay Holler).
2000, released Dixie Dream album (Copper Creek).
2003, released Teardrops on a Rose album (Copper Creek).
President of Office White Oak, a promotional agency in Osaka which promotes bluegrass music in Japan.

Indigo Roots

Posted on March 27, 2024July 20, 2024 by WR

INDIGO ROOTS

From Nashville.
A family band (siblings) featuring Bethany (fiddle), Victoria (mandolin), and Daniel (bass) Kelley.
They previously performed and recorded under other names: The Paper Dolls and Band of Kelleys. They chose their new name because indigo (the color) is a shade of blue (for bluegrass),
2023, released several singles on their own label, produced by Jim Van Cleve.

Infamous Stringdusters, The

Posted on November 30, 2013July 15, 2024 by WR

THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS

Originally based in Nashville. Now Charlottesville, Virginia.
Formed in 2005 by guitarist Chris Eldridge (son of Seldom Scene banjo player Ben Eldridge).
Original name of the group was The Stringdusters” but they found that another band in New York was using a similar name (The String Dusters). So they added “Infamous” to their name.
Eldridge (AKA “Critter”) graduated from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music (Ohio).
Original Members: Eldridge (guitar), Chris Pandolfi (banjo), Andy Hall (dobro), Jeremy Garrett (fiddle), Jesse Cobb (mandolin), and Travis Book (bass).
2006, Eldridge left to work with Chris Thile (Punch Brothers) and was replaced by guitarist Andy Falco.
2007, released Fork In The Road album (Sugar Hill).
2007, won IBMA awards for Emerging Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (“Fork in the Road”) and Album of the Year (Fork In The Road).
2008, released The Infamous Stringdusters album (Sugar Hill).
2011, Chris Pandolfi gave the keynote address at the IBMA World of Bluegrass conference; band announced that it was no longer going to brand itself as a bluegrass band in order to widen its audience.
2011, fiddler/mandolinist Jesse Cobb left the band. He was not replaced; they became a five-piece band.
2012, released Silver Sky album (High Country Records).
2014, released Let It Go album (High Country Records).
2015, released “Undercover” album (High Country Records).
2016, released Ladies & Gentlemen album (Compass) featuring female vocalists Claire Lynch, Lee Ann Womack, Sara Watkin, Aoife O’Donovan, Celia Woodsmith, others.
2017, released Laws of Gravity album (Compass). They also released a live version of the album.
2018, won the Grammy Award (Best Bluegrass) for Laws of Gravity album.
2021, released Tribute to Bill Monroe album (Americana Vibes).
2022, released Toward the Fray album (Americana Vibes).

Ingram, Kenny

Posted on September 8, 2014March 5, 2018 by WR

KENNY INGRAM

From Dickson, Tennessee.
One of the top Scruggs-style banjo players.
1971, at age 19 joined James Monroe and the Midnight Ramblers.
1972, joined Jimmy Martin and the Sunny Mountain Boys.
1973, joined Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass until Lester’s passing in 1978.
1978, re-joined Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
1981, worked with Curly Seckler and the Nashville Grass.
1986-2001, retired from music
2001, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2009, joined the Larry Stephenson Band.
2012, appeared on Foggy Mountain Special: A Bluegrass Tribute To Earl Scruggs album (Rounder Records).
2018, retired from performing.

Iron Horse

Posted on November 30, 2013September 24, 2024 by WR

IRON HORSE

From Muscle Shoals, Alabama
Formed in 2000.
Members: Tony Robertson (mandolin), Ricky Rogers (bass), Anthony Richardson (banjo), Vance Henry (guitar).
Several members had previously worked with Jake Landers and Rual Yarbrough.
2003, they were approached by CMH Records to record a tribute album to the heavy metal band Metallica, which they did. Since then, they have recorded numerous bluegrass tribute albums for CMH including:
2011, released Horse and Pen album (B Sharp).
2016, released Small Town Christmas album (B Sharp).
2020, released Classic Bluegrass, Volume One (no label)
2023, released Pickin’ On Pearl Jam (CMH).
2024, released Pickin’ On The Doors (CMH).

Isaac, Bo

Posted on November 30, 2013September 6, 2019 by WR

BO ISAAC

From Wheelwright (Floyd County), Kentucky.
Began performing at the Kentucky Opry at age 5.
Has worked with Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, Dave Evans & Riverbend, Ernie Thacker & Route 23 and Gerald Evans & Paradise.
2005, recorded first album I’m Not Living Life (It’s Living Me), produced by Steve Gulley.
2005, formed Bo Isaac and the The Wheelwrights.
2009, joined Summertown Road.
2012, formed Bo Isaac and the Rounders. Released “Dollar” album.
2014, joined a part-time band called Mountain Jacks, the pre-show band at the Lumberjack Feud dinner theatre in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee four nights a week.
2019, began hosting a bluegrass music radio program on Kool Hits 105.7 in Ashland, Kentucky.

Isaacs, Joe

Posted on November 30, 2013October 29, 2015 by WR

JOE ISAACS

From Big Hill, Kentucky.
1988, formed (with his wife Lily) The Isaacs.
Before forming The Isaacs, Joe worked with Larry Sparks, The Stanley Brothers, Frank Wakefield and the Greenbriar Boys. He plays banjo and guitar.
1970, Joe’s brother Delmer died in an auto accident, which led Joe and his wife Lily to devote their lives to singing Gospel music. Their first band was called The Calvary Mountain Boys. Next came Sacred Bluegrass (this group had a TV show in Hamilton, Ohio) and later the Isaacs.
1995, recorded a duet album of gospel music with Ralph Stanley called Gospel Gathering (Freeland Records).
1999, Joe left the Isaacs and has since recorded several solo projects including Dreaming Of Home (2003, Mountain Mill Entertainment). He and Lily divorced.
2003, had open heart surgery.
2010, Joe married Stacy York, a traditional bluegrass singer who has worked with the Cumberland Highlanders and the Hazel Holler Girls. They perform together as “Joe and Stacy Isaacs.”
2011, John Bowman recorded a tribute to Joe Isaacs called Family Chain (Mountain Home Records).

Harris, Greg

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

GREG HARRIS

From Los Angeles, California.
Former member of Byron Berline’s “LA Fiddle Band” and The Flying Burrito Brothers.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments (guitar, banjo, mandolin and fiddle). Best known as a guitarist who plays bluegrass, country and jazz.

Harris, Mickey

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

MICKEY HARRIS

From Leanna, Tennessee.
Plays the upright bass.
Grew up in a musical family. As a child, he performed on his uncle’s TV Show “The Carl Tipton Show.”
First band “High Lonesome” with Cody Kilby and Brian Blaylock.
Has also worked with Tim Graves and Cherokee, Larry Stephenson, Sally Jones and the Sidewinders.
2002, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2007, released a gospel album “Kneel and Pray.”
2008, released “Dog House Blues” album.

Harris, R.C.

Posted on November 29, 2013June 30, 2023 by WR

R. C. HARRIS (AND BLUE DENIM)

From Statesville, North Carolina. Lives in Gallatin, Tennessee.
Began musical career at age 13 (Ole Mountain Opry).
1971, played banjo with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys.
1973, formed group called Blue Denim (recorded several albums for Old Homestead Records).
1978, recorded an album with Bobby Hicks, Del McCoury and Herschel Sizemore.
2000, recorded “Scenic Roots” album (no label) with guest musicians John Duffey, Ben Eldridge, Tom Gray, Mike Auldridge, T. Michael Coleman, Jimmy Gaudreau, Chris Eldridge and Jimmy Arnold.
2006, released “Comin’ Back to Bluegrass” (after working for several years in country music.)
2023, died at the age of 83.

Hartford, John

Posted on November 29, 2013July 17, 2019 by WR

JOHN HARTFORD

From St. Louis, Missouri.
He was a musician, songwriter, steamboat pilot, author, artist, disc jockey, calligrapher, dancer, folklorist, father, and historian.
Began his career with several bluegrass bands around the Missouri-Illinois area, including the Ozark Mountain Trio, the Missouri Ridgerunners, and the Dixie Ramblers (with Rodney and Doug Dillard.)
1965, moved to Nashville and signed with RCA records, recording several solo projects. RCA thought John might be their “Bob Dylan.” Later signed with Warner Brothers, recording for them until 1971.
1968, moved to Los Angeles and worked as a comedy writer for the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour (with Steve Martin) and also appeared as a regular on the Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour. While in LA he appeared on the Byrd’s “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” album.
He was a prolific songwriter. His biggest hit was “Gentle on My Mind” which became Glen Campbell’s first #1 song and one of the most popular songs of all time (according to BMI). In his words, “that song brought my freedom.”
He worked primarily as a solo artist during much of his career, accompanying himself on banjo, fiddle and guitar. He also danced while performing, shuffling his feet on a sheet of plywood dusted with sand.
He was a licensed river boat captain. His passion is the river and big paddle-wheel steamboats (inspiration for many of his songs). Has piloted the Delta Queen and for many years worked at least ten days per year aboard the Julia Belle Swain out of Peoria, Illinois. He lived in a house overlooking the Cumberland River.
His given name: John Cowan Harford, without the “t.” Changed it to Hartford because “people invariably spelled it that way anyhow.”
Early 1990’s, toured and recorded with his son Jamie, who went on to pursue his own career in music.
1993, founded his own record label called “Small Dog a’ Barkin’.”
2000, performed on the soundtrack album for “O Brother Where Art Thou” and hosted a concert at the Ryman Auditorium featuring artists appearing in the movie.
Died of non-hodgkins lymphoma in 2001.
2009, a band was formed to preserve and perform Hartford’s music. Members included Chris Sharp (guitar), Bob Carlin (banjo), Mike Compton (mandolin), Matt Combs (fiddle) and Mark Schatz (bass). They recorded an album “Memories of John” and performed at the IBMA Awards to commemorate Hartford’s induction into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2010, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
2019, was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Aereo-Plain album (Warner Brothers, 1971).
Morning Bugle (Warner Brothers,, 1972).
Mark Twang (Flying Fish, 1976).
Gum Tree Canoe (Flying Fish, 1980).
Me Oh My How the Time Does Fly (Flying Fish, 1992).
Goin Back to Dixie (Small Dog a Barkin’, 1993).

Hart Brothers, The

Posted on November 29, 2013March 1, 2020 by WR

THE HART BROTHERS

From Guysville, Ohio.
A family band formed in 1979 by Myron “Pete” Hart (mandolin), Heamon “Tib” Hart (banjo) and Arman “Sam” Hart (guitar). Prior to that, they performed as Lester Young and the Hart Brothers (Young played fiddle.)
1983, Sam passed away. Pete and Tib have continued to perform together.
2003, added guitar player Randy Glenn (formerly of the Idaho-based Grasshoppers and the ex-husband of Honi Deaton.)
They host an annual bluegrass festival at Poston Lake, Ohio (near Athens).
As of 2013, they have recorded six albums, three for Old Homestead and three on their own label.

Harvest Wind

Posted on November 29, 2013March 21, 2018 by WR

HARVEST WIND

From Statesville, North Carolina.
They perform bluegrass gospel music.
Features lead vocals and fiddling of Revonda Roberts. Other band members: Lonnie Roberts (mandolin), Justin Bowles (guitar & banjo), Robert Quisenberry (bass), Brandon Rowe (banjo), James Torrence (Resonator Guitar).
2004, released self-titled album on MasterShield Records.
2005, released The Traveler album (Lamon Records).
2006, released Ancient of Days album (Lamon Records).
2007, began billing themselves as Revonda Roberts and Harvest Wind.
2008, released Stillwater album (C&L Entertainment).

Hassler, Carrie

Posted on November 29, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

CARRIE HASSLER

From Pikeville, Tennessee.
Grew up singing in church. She was heavily influence by Southern Gospel music.
2003, began performing bluegrass music for the first time.
2006, formed her band Hard Rain, with Josh Miller (banjo), Kevin and Keith McKinnon (identical twins, mandolin and guitar respectively), Travis Anderson (bass) and Jamie Harper (fiddle).
2006, recorded first album Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain, produced by Jim Van Cleve (Rural Rhythm).
2009, released second album CHHR2 (Rural Rhythm).
2012, released solo project The Distance, produced by Steve Gulley (Rural Rhythm).

Hayde Bluegrass Orchestra

Posted on May 30, 2021September 18, 2024 by WR

HAYDE BLUEGRASS ORCHESTRA

From Oslo, Norway.
Formed in 2013 after hearing music from the Oscar-nominated Belgian movie “The Broken Circle Breakdown.” They began rehearsing and recorded the song “Wayfaring Stranger” which was posted to YouTube and went viral. Since then they have recorded several YouTube songs and performances and have grown in popularity.
Their music is a blend of bluegrass, Americana, pop, Celtic and Norwegian folk music.
Band members: Rebekka Nilsson (Vocals), Joakim Borgen (Mandolin), Ole Engrav (Guitar), Magnus Eriksrud (Banjo), Moa Meinich (Fiddle), David Buverud (Bass), Emil Brattested (Dobro™), Sjur Marqvardsen (Accordion).
2020, were invited to perform at the IBMA Awards Show (virtual).
2021, released first album Migrants (no label).
2021, were invited to perform at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
2022, Rebekka Nilsson won the IBMA Momentum award for vocalist of the year.
2024, mandolinist and co-founder of the band, Joakim Borgen retired from the group.

Haynie, Aubrey

Posted on November 29, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

AUBREY HAYNIE

From Tampa, Florida. Lives in Nashville.
One of Nashville’s top session musicians (fiddle, mandolin).
At age 11, joined a Florida group called the Bluegrass Parlor Band.
At age 17, landed a job with country music star Aaron Tippen. At age 19, joined Clint Black’s touring band.
1996, briefly joined David Parmley, Scott Vestal and Continental Divide.
1997, recorded first solo album Doin My Time (Sugar Hill).
1998, toured with Randy Travis.
2000, released A Man Must Carry on album (Sugar Hill).
2007, worked with the Time Jumpers.
2003, released The Bluegrass Fiddle Album (Sugar Hill).
2003, won IBMA award for Instrumental Album of the Year.
2009, won Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award for Top Fiddle Player of the Year.

Hayseed Dixie

Posted on November 29, 2013December 14, 2021 by WR

HAYSEED DIXIE

From “Deer Lick Holler” (Nashville, Tennessee).
Formed by Barley Scotch and Enus and Talcum, the Younger Brothers — Dale and Don Wayne Reno in real life.
2001, recorded a bluegrass album of AC/DC songs.
Original name of the group was AC Dixie, but decided to change it for legal reasons.
2002, released “A Hillbilly Tribute to Mountain Love” featuring covers of other rock artists (from Ted Nugent to Aerosmith).
2003, released “Kiss My Grass” — a bluegrass tribute to the rock group KISS.
While Hayseed Dixie converts rock to bluegrass, they also perform as The Kerosene Brothers, doing precisely the opposite–converting bluegrass songs to rock.
2013, Dale and Don Wayne teamed up with Mitch Harrell to form a second generation version of Reno and Harrell. The original band featured their fathers Don Reno and Bill Harrell.
2021, Don Wayne joined the Farm Hands.

Head for the Hills

Posted on November 29, 2013March 30, 2016 by WR

HEAD FOR THE HILLS

From Colorado.
Formed in 2003 while they were students at Colorado State University.
The describe their music as “modern acoustic.”
Voted “best bluegrass band” by Denver’s Westword Magazine Readers’ Poll.
2010, released first album Head for the Hills produced by Drew Emmitt (Leftover Salmon).
2012, released first live album “Head for the Hills: Live.”
2013, released their own craft beer (Head for the Hills Amber Ale) from Odell Brewing Co. in Fort Collins.
2013, released Blue Ruin album.

Heartstrings, The

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

HEARTSTRINGS

All-female band from Nashville.
Formed in 2001
Members: Bo Jamison (guitar), Marilyn Barclay (bass), Karen Pendley (fiddle), Chris Lewis (mandolin), Sally Wingate (banjo).
Jamison writes much of the group’s material. She has won several Chris Austin songwriting awards at Merlefest.
Fiddler Pendley has toured with many country acts including Ricky Van Shelton and for several years worked as an entertainer at Opryland USA.

Hees, Irl

Posted on November 29, 2013March 30, 2015 by WR

IRL HEES

From Tuscumbia, Missouri.
Pronounced “Earl Hess.”
1976, began playing bass in a regional bluegrass band.
1984, joined Lost Highway (California).
1985, formed Missouri band called Down the Road.
1992, worked with Rhonda Vincent. Was an original member of her band The Rage.
1996, joined Chris Jones and the Night Drivers.
2001, joined the Lonesome River Band.
2003, released solo album I’m Just a Bass Player (no label).
2005, worked with Cedar Hill.
2010, joined the Cleverlys (AKA Miles Cleverly).

Heffernan, Jimmy

Posted on May 18, 2021May 18, 2021 by WR

JIMMY HEFFERNAN

From Haddon Heights, New Jersey. Lived in Nashville for many years.
Best known as a sideman specializing in Dobro™ (reso guitar).
1974, played Dobro™ and banjo in a band called Raintree.
1976, played in a band called Transatlantic Bluegrass with Bill Keith on banjo.
1980, worked with Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers.
1982, worked with Red Allen and the Kentuckians.
1985, worked with Bill Grant and Delia Belle.
1988, worked with Doug Kershaw.
1989, worked with Joe Diffie (for nine years).
1999, worked in bands with Brad Paisley, Charlie Louvin and Lucinda Williams.
2003, released an album with Mike Auldridge and Hal Rugg called The Resocasters (no label).
He has produced albums by other artists and teaches lessons on the Dobro™ and other instruments.
2021, released solo project called “I’d Trade It All for a Little More” (no label).

Heidi & Ryan

Posted on December 29, 2016April 20, 2020 by WR

HEIDI & RYAN

From Somerset, Kentucky.
A husband and wife duo, Heidi & Ryan Greer.
Features the lead vocals of Heidi Greer.
They specialize in gospel music.
2010, began performing together as the Kentucky Mountain Trio.
2017, released self-titled album (Mountain Fever).

Heights of Grass, The

Posted on November 29, 2013September 29, 2018 by WR

THE HEIGHTS OF GRASS

From Richmond, Virginia.
Formed in 1975 by Don Grubb (guitar), with Charles Bishop (banjo), Denny Williams (bass) and Kenny Tackett (mandolin). Other band members included Richard Ward (banjo), Vernon Hughes (mandolin), Sonny Mead (fiddle) and Billy Lux (bass), Mark Newton (mandolin), Rickie Simpkins (fiddle) and Sammy Shelor (banjo).
After Grubb left the band in the early eighties, they evolved into The Virginia Squires.
1976, released “Introducing the Heights of Grass” album (no label).
1978, released “Ghost Riders” album (Outlet)
1978, released “Louisiana Saturday Night” album (Outlet)
1980, released “Encore” album (CMH) produced by Sonny Osborne.
1982, released “Live at the Flat Rock” album (HOG).

Henderson, Wayne

Posted on November 29, 2013November 20, 2019 by WR

WAYNE HENDERSON

From Sugar Grove, Virginia.
A legendary luthier and guitarist. Has recorded albums with Doc Watkins, Butch Robins, Steve Kaufman and others.
As a guitar maker, he has made guitars for Peter Rowan, Gillian Welch, Doc Watson and Eric Clapton.
1995, was presented with the Folk Endowment for the Arts award by President Bill Clinton at the White House.
1995, the Wayne C. Henderson Music Festival and Guitar Competition was established in his honor in Wilson, Virginia. It takes place on the third Saturday of June every year.
Sometimes performs as “W.C. Henderson and Co.”
2000, toured and recorded with the “Masters of the Steel Stringed Guitar.”
2007, performed as part of the “Music from the Crooked Road” tour.
2019, was featured in the award-winning documentary film about the Galax Fiddlers Convention titled “Fiddlin.”

Henhouse Prowlers, The

Posted on November 29, 2013November 13, 2023 by WR

THE HENHOUSE PROWLERS

From Chicago, Illinois
Formed in 2004, went full-time in 2007.
Original members: Eric Lambert (guitar), Jon Goldfine (bass), Ben Wright (banjo), Grant Ziolkowski (mandolin). Some of them previously worked with another Chicago-based band called “the Back Porch Ramblers.”
2008, composed and performed the soundtrack to a PBS documentary “The Ride Of Our Lives,” produced by NBC Today Show features correspondent Mike Leonard.
2009, released A Dark Rumor produced by Don Stiernberg and Greg Cahill. Stiernberg also played mandolin.
2010, won the Rockygrass band contest.
2010 and 2011, won Chicago Music Award for “Best Country/Western Entertainer”
2011, released Verses Chapters & Rhymes (no label) produced by Sally Van Meter.
2013, they began working with the U.S. Department of State as musical ambassadors, traveling to dozens of countries presenting bluegrass music.
2013, released Breaking Ground album (no label).
2015, released Still On That Ride album (no label).
2017, Chris Dollar (guitar) joined the band, replacing Lambert.
2020, Jake Howard (mandolin) joined the band, replacing Ziolkowski.
2023, released Lead and Iron album (Dark Shadow).

Henry, Bill

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

BILL HENRY (See also NORTHERN LIGHTS)

From North Stonington, Connecticut.
Plays guitar with Northern Lights (since 1981).
Attended the Berklee College of Music.
2002, recorded solo album.

Henry, Chris

Posted on November 29, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

CHRIS HENRY (AND THE HARDCORE GRASS)

From Frederick County, Virginia. Lives in Padukah, Kentucky.
Son of bluegrass musicians Red and Murphy Henry, brother of Casey Henry.
Learned mandolin as a child. Played for Bill Monroe backstage at the Grand Old Opry.
Age 18, got an electric guitar and started playing rock (from heavy metal to punk). Played for five years in a band called The Bends.
2003, worked with Dave Peterson and 1946.
2004, worked with Audie Blaylock and Redline.
2005, teamed up with sister Casey to form “Casey and Chris and the Two Stringers.”
Wrote “Walkin’ West to Memphis” recorded by the Gibson Brothers.
2007-2013, worked with Shawn Camp, Peter Rowan, Danny Barnes and Mike Bub (in a trio) and formed his own band Chris Henry and the Hardcore Grass.
2013, released Making My Way to You album (no label).

Henry, Casey

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

CASEY HENRY

From Frederick County, Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
Grew up playing bass with her family group Red and Murphy and their Excellent Children. Casey’s mother Murphy is a well-known producer of banjo instructional videos, and a columnist for Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine. Casey writes for Banjo Newsletter.
2000, graduated from the University of Virginia.
2001, recorded a banjo album called “Real Women Drive Trucks.”
2001, joined Tim Graves and Cherokee, playing bass. Also worked with Uncle Earl and Jim Hurst.
2004, recorded with a group called The Tennessee Heartstrings.
2005, formed “Casey & Chris and the Two-Stringers,” a band with her brother Chris (mandolin). Disbanded in 2007.
2009, Casey joined the Dixie Bee-Liners, playing banjo.

Henry, Red

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

RED HENRY

From Winchester, Virginia.
Began playing mandolin in 1967.
Married to Murphy Henry, well-known for her banjo-instruction books and videos, also a columnist for Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine.
Children Casey and Christopher are also professional bluegrass musicians.
1977-1995, performed with his family band “Red and Murphy & Co.” Recorded 10 CD’s with this group.
Plays a mandolin (Randy Wood #3) which was previously owned and played by Bill Monroe.
Hobbies: astronomy, sound electronics, old English literature.

Henry, Richard. D

Posted on November 29, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

RICHARD D. HENRY

From Houston, Texas (grew up in South Carolina).
Began performing with a family band on the radio at age 14.
A prolific songwriter and mandolin player with the Texas-based band Bluegrass Solution.
2001, won the Chris Austin songwriting contest at Merlefest.
2009, released two albums of original songs.

Hensley, Corey

Posted on March 7, 2016 by WR

COREY HENSLEY

From Sod, West Virginia.
He is a tenor singer and bass player (although he can play all the bluegrass instruments).
Worked with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver for four years. Wrote several songs recorded by Doyle Lawson including “Light on My Feet, Ready to Fly,” “Sing Me A Song About Jesus,” and others.
He has his own recording studio.
Formed the Corey Hensley Band.

Hensley, Tim

Posted on November 29, 2013March 30, 2015 by WR

TIM HENSLEY

From Cincinnatti, Ohio.
Moved to Nashville in 1986. He played all the bluegrass instruments, spending most of his career working as a sideman. He was also known as a superb harmony singer.
1988, worked with the Ricky Skaggs band. Played banjo,
1989, worked with Patty Loveless.
1999-2013, worked with Kenny Chesney.
2007, recorded a solo album Long Monday (Rural Rhythm), produced by Kenny Chesney and Buddy Cannon.
2008, made first appearance as a solo act on the Grand Ole Opry.
2013, died at the age of 50 of liver failure.

Hensley, Trey

Posted on December 3, 2014April 1, 2023 by WR

TREY HENSLEY

From Jonesborough, Tennessee. Lives in Nashville.
A country singer and guitarist with roots in bluegrass music.
2002, appeared on the Grand Ole Opry at age 11 with Marty Stuart and Earl Scruggs. He also made several appearances with Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash.
2003, recorded first album, produced by Tom T. Hall.
2004, recorded second album at age 13 with his band Drivin’ Force: Backin to Birmingham (Copper Creek).
2008, released Looking at My Future album (no label).
2008, performed at the White House with Charlie Daniels.
2009, released It Is What It Is album (no label).
2014, moved to Nashville and began performing with resophonic guitarist and (former) Blue Highway member Rob Ickes.
2015, released Before the Sun Goes Down album with Rob Ickes (Compass Records).
2016, released The Country Blues album with Rob Ickes (Compass Records).
2019, released World Full of Blues album with Rob Ickes (Compass Records).
2022, recorded a vocal duet with Laura Orshaw “On Her Own” (Dark Shadow).
2023, released Living in a Song album with Rob Ickes (Compass Records).

Hensley, Walter

Posted on November 29, 2013July 6, 2024 by WR

WALTER HENSLEY

From Baltimore, Maryland (Born in Grundy, Virginia).
Called “The Banjo Baron of Baltimore.
1952, worked with Hobo Jack Adkins and the Kentucky Pals and filled in with the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers.
1956, played in a rockabilly band The Black Mountain Boys.
1957, joined Earl Taylor and the Stoney Mountain Boys.
1961, joined the Country Gentlemen.
1962, re-joined Earl Taylor.
1963, recorded an influential banjo album for Capitol Records “Five String Banjo Today.”
1980, formed his own band The Dukes of Bluegrass.
1990, worked with Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass.
1999, joined James Reams and the Barnstormers, which became “James Reams, Walter Hensley and the Barons of Bluegrass” in 2002.
2012, died at the age of 76.

Herald, John

Posted on November 29, 2013January 4, 2019 by WR

JOHN HERALD (See also THE GREENBRIAR BOYS)

From New York City. Lived in Woodstock, New York.
1958-1966, was founder and lead singer of The Greenbriar Boys.
Given name: John Whittier Sirabian. He is Armenian. His father was a poet in Greenwich Village.
1976, formed with The John Herald Band with another Greenbriar Boy, Bob Yellin.
1978, released “John Herald and the John Herald Band” album (Bay) with band members Roly Salley (bass), Caroline Dutton (fiddle), Wanamaker Lewis (banjo) and Gordon Titcomb (mandolin).
1984, released “The Real Thing” album (Rooster) with band members Cyndi Cashdollar (Dobro™), Caroline Dutton (fiddle) and George Quinn (bass).
Among John Herald’s fans: Linda Rondstadt, who heard John’s version of “A Different Drum” in the sixties and recorded the song almost note for note with her group The Stone Ponies, selling more than a million copies (a gold record).
1992, he and Yellin’ reunited briefly to perform as the New Greenbriar Boys.
2005, he died at the age of 65. He committed suicide.

Here Today

Posted on November 29, 2013October 28, 2015 by WR

HERE TODAY

A “project band” featuring Vince Gill, Herb Pederson, David Grisman, Jim Buchanan and Emory Gordy, Jr.
Formed in January 1982 and recorded one album Here Today (Sugar Hill Records).
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Hess, Clay

Posted on November 29, 2013July 9, 2016 by WR

CLAY HESS

From Blue Creek, Ohio.
1983, age 12, had a band called Orange Mountain Special.
1990, joined True Blue, performing at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
1995, won the Ohio State Guitar Championship.
1999-2001, played lead guitar for Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
2002, released solo album “Red Haired Boy” (no label).
2003, formed his own band Crossfire.
2005, joined the Mark Newton Band.
2007, joined Mountain Heart.
2008, joined Sierra Hull and Highway 111.
2011, formed his own band.
He is also a recording engineer and producer with several albums to his credit.
2014, released solo album “1” (no label).
2016, teamed up with Tim Shelton to form a new duo.

Hesson, Ray

Posted on November 29, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

RAY HESSON

A banjo player from Bowie, Maryland.
Performs extensively around the Washington, D.C. area.
Has taught music since he was in high school. One of his students was actress Goldie Hawn.
Retired from the Federal Government (21 years with NASA, 6 years with U.S. Navy).
Played with a D.C. group for 20 years called Foggy Bottom.
Performs in a duo with his son Michael, and with other children in a group called Pointer Ridge. Ray and Michael performed at Bill Clinton’s first Inaugural Dinner.
1994, won the Winfield banjo contest.
1996, recorded his first banjo instrumental album “Five Picker” (no label).
1996, on the way to register for the banjo contest at Merle Fest, he suffered a heart attack (he recovered.)
1999, released “Windfall” album (Old Line).
2004, released “Sunrise” album (Old Line)
2016, died at the age of 74 after a long illness.

Hickman, John

Posted on November 29, 2013July 8, 2023 by WR

JOHN HICKMAN

From Columbus, Ohio. Lived in Southern California for more than 30 years and then moved to Guthrie, Oklahoma.
An influential banjo player who began his musical career with an Ohio group called Sid Campbell and the Country Cut-ups.
1962, enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps.
1968, joined Earl Taylor’s Stoney Mountain Boys.
1969, moved to California to take a job in the lumber business. He formed a group with his brother George called The Hickman Brothers and also played banjo on several movie soundtracks and the TV show “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
1976, formed an informal partnership with fiddler Byron Berline which lasted for the rest of his life. Together they played in band such as Sundance, The L.A. Fiddle Band, BCH (Berline, Crary, Hickman), California and the Byron Berline Band.
1978, was a member of the L.A. band Corn Bred.
1978, released his only solo project Don’t Mean Maybe (Rounder).
1995, moved to Guthrie, Oklahoma with Byron Berline. Besides performing in the Byron Berline Band, he did repair work in Byron’s “Double-Stop Fiddle Shop.”
2001, added steel guitar to his repertoire (with the Byron Berline Band).
2021, died at the age of 78.

Hickory Hill

Posted on November 29, 2013February 18, 2017 by WR

HICKORY HILL

From Avinger, Texas (east Texas).
Formed in 1978.
Members: Ronny Singley (mandolin), Bob Stegall (bass), Don Eaves (banjo), John Early (lead guitar).
Founding member Rolan Foster died of cancer in 1996. Replaced by Jimmy Godwin (guitar/fiddle).
Founders John Early and Rolan Foster began playing music together while in junior high school. They lived across the street from each other in Avinger, Texas.
Major influence: The Eagles (Don Henley is also from East Texas).
1982, released “Coyote Night” album (no label).
1983, released “Historical Collection” album (no label).
1985, released “It’s About Time” album (no label).
1990, released “Reminiscing” album (no label).
1993, won “Band of the Year” honors from the Arts and Entertainment Council of East Texas.
1995, released First Fifteen Years album (Turquoise).
1998, released “Good Times Again” album (no label).
2000, released “Thank You Lord” album (no label).
2002, released “Freedom” album (Nashville Incorrect).
2006, released their ninth album “Old School” (no label).

Hicks, Bobby

Posted on November 29, 2013October 22, 2024 by WR

BOBBY HICKS

From Newton, North Carolina. Lived in Asheville, North Carolina.
Began playing the fiddle at age nine.
1954-1960, played fiddle for Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys, recording such classics as “Cheyenne,” “Big Mon,” “Scotland,” “Wheel Hoss,” and “Brown County Breakdown.”
Also worked and toured with Porter Wagoner, Mel Tillis, other country acts. Had his own dance band.
1963-1970, lived and worked in Las Vegas, performing with singer Judy Lynn.
1978, released first solo project Texas Crapshooter (County).
1980’s, he was a member of the Bluegrass Album Band with Tony Rice, J.D. Crowe, Doyle Lawson, Todd Phillips and Jerry Douglas.
1980-2002, was a member of Ricky Skaggs’ touring band and then his bluegrass band Kentucky Thunder.
Played fiddle on several Skaggs #1 hits, including “Uncle Pen,” “Country Boy,” “Cryin’ My Heart Out Over You,” and “I Wouldn’t Change You If I Could.”
1980, released a fiddle duet album with Kenny Baker called Darkness on the Delta (County).
1998, released his second solo project Fiddle Patch (Rounder). This album won the IBMA award for Instrumental Album of the Year.
2002, was inducted into the Fiddlers Hall of Fame.
2003, played dates with Jesse McReynolds and the Virginia Boys.
2004, joined the North Carolina band Hazel Creek.
Bobby and his wife Cathy operated a Wild Bird Center in a shopping center in Asheville where they sold bird feeders and birdseed.
2008, fell and broke one of his fingers, requiring surgery. Within three months, he was back playing again. Made several appearances with Earl Scruggs.
2015, released an album with guitarist Mark Kuykendall Down Memory Lane (Rebel Records).
2017, released second album with Mark Kuykendall Forever and a Day (Rebel Records).
2017, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2024, died at the age of 91.
2024, was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.

High 48’s, The

Posted on January 22, 2014March 31, 2015 by WR

THE HIGH 48’S

From the Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota area.
Formed in 2006.
Their band name came from the world of trains. The 48 was a type of box car used in France during World War I. Originally called a “40 & 8″ — after the sign painted on the side of each car indicating its capacity of 40 men or 8 mules — the 48 carried American troops to and from the front in World War I.
Members: Rich Casey (bass), Eric Christopher (fiddle), Chad Johnson (mandolin), Marty Marrone (guitar) and Anthony Ihrig (banjo)
2008, won first place in the band competition at Rockygrass (Lyons, Colorado).
2014, recorded an album of train songs called Great Northern Railroad (no label).

High Country

Posted on November 29, 2013July 30, 2018 by WR

HIGH COUNTRY

From the San Francisco Bay area.
Formed in 1968.
Only remaining original member: mandolinist Butch Waller, who founded the group.
1971, they were the first west coast band to be invited to Bill Monroe’s Bean Blossom festival.
Butch Waller and the late Charlie Waller (of the Country Gentlemen) are not related but they share the same birthdate: January 19.
1982, Waller married Kathy Kallick (then of the Good Ole Persons).
Waller first band was a group that included Herb Pederson, who at the time was a classmate of Waller’s at St. Augustine’s grammer school in Berkeley, California.
1999, Waller released a solo album of mandolin instrumentals called “Golden Gate Promenade.”
Butch Waller also has performed and recorded with his brother Bob as “The Waller Brothers” (classic country duets).
2009, released “Perfect Companions” album.
2018, celebrated their 50th anniversary as a band with a concert in Berkeley.

High Fidelity

Posted on August 3, 2018September 16, 2024 by WR

HIGH FIDELITY

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2014 by Jeremy Stephens (banjo/guitar), Corrina Rose Logston (fiddle), Kurt Stephenson (banjo), Vickie Vaughn (bass) and Daniel Amick (mandolin/guitar/banjo).
The dictionary definition of the term High Fidelity is “the reproduction of an effect (such as sound or an image) that is very faithful to the original.” The phrase was often emblazoned on long-play album covers of the 50’s and 60’s as a selling point.
Stephens (guitar) formerly worked with the famous gospel group The Chuck Wagon Gang. He also worked with country singer Ray Stevens and with Jesse McReynolds.
Logsdon (fiddle) formerly worked with David Peterson & 1946, Jesse McReynolds & the Virginia Boys, Chris Henry & the Hardcore Grass, and Jim Lauderdale. She is now married to Jeremy Stephens.
Stephenson (banjo) won the 2010 National Bluegrass Banjo Champion at the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas.
Vaughn (bass) previously worked with Patty Loveless, The David Mayfield Parade, Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike, and also fronts her own group, The Vickie Vaughn Band.
2014, won the SPBGMA band contest.
2018, released Hills and Home album (Rebel).
2020, released Banjo Players Blues album (Rebel).
2024, Logsdon began recording apart from High Fidelity under the name Rrinaco (a re-arranging of the letters in her first name Corinna).

High Plains Tradition

Posted on November 29, 2013 by WR

HIGH PLAINS TRADITION

From Denver, Colorado.
Formed in 1988.
Band members: Doug Elrick (mandolin), Kenny Pabst (bass), Bobby Vickery (fiddle), Mark Leslie ( banjo), Steve Gilmore (guitar).
1995, won first place at Denver’s Mile-High Bluegrass Band Contest.
1997, recorded first album “Prairie Wind,” produced by Pete Wernick.

Highland Travelers, The

Posted on February 22, 2018February 21, 2022 by WR

THE HIGHLAND TRAVELERS

From Johnson City, Tennessee, Citico, Tennessee & Galax, Virginia.
Formed in January, 2018 by Adam Steffey (mandolin), Keith Garrett (guitar), Gary Hultman (Dobro™), Jason Davis (banjo) and Kameron Keller (bass).
Steffey, Garrett and Hultman were formerly with the Boxcars; Davis and Keller were formerly with Junior Sisk and Ramblers Choice. Both of those groups disbanded in 2017.
March, 2018, released self-titled album (Mountain Fever).
November, 2018, disbanded after Steffey’s decision to take a break from from the music business. Garrett returned to his original band Blue Moon Rising; Hultman joined Blue Highway; Davis and Keller joined Claybank.

Highstrung

Posted on November 28, 2013April 23, 2024 by WR

HIGHSTRUNG

From Orlando, Florida.
Formed in 1989 by Jerry Nettuno as a trio, playing primarily at Disney World, Florida.
Members: Keith Tew (guitar, lead vocals), Jerry Nettuno (mandolin), Terry Campbell (bass) and Steve Pye (banjo).
1993, won the Southeast Regional Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown.
1994, released “Stop Look and Listen” album on Pinecastle Records.
1995, released “Now or Never” album on Pinecastle Records.
1997, broke up.
Guitarist and lead singer Keith Tew formed “the Tews” with his wife Danelle, and also worked with Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
1998, Nettuno moved to Montana, forming a new band with John Lowell and Julie Elkins called “Deep River” (now “Kane’s River”).
1999, Nettuno won IBMA award as writer of song of the year “Three Rusty Nails” (recorded by Ronnie Bowman).

High Windy

Posted on November 28, 2013March 31, 2015 by WR

HIGH WINDY

From Asheville, North Carolina.
Formed in 2004.
Named for a sweeping ridgeline near Asheville.
Members: Patrick McDougall (banjo), Shane Lail (guitar), Ty Gilpin (mandolin), Tim Gardner (fiddle), Mark Davis (bass). Much of the band’s material is written by McDougall and Lail.
2005, won the North Carolina State Bluegrass Band Competition.
2006, won the Fiddler’s Grove band contest.
2008, released first album Greater Storm on Mountain Home Records. Gilpin does radio promotion for the label.

Hillbenders, The

Posted on November 28, 2013November 20, 2021 by WR

THE HILLBENDERS

From Springfield, Missouri.
Formed in 2008.
The name Hillbenders is a derivative of “Hellbender,” a native Ozark amphibian.
Band members include Mark Cassidy (banjo), Gary Rea (bass), Jim Rea (guitar), Nolan Lawrence (mandolin), Chad Graves (Dobro™).
Graves previously worked with Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike. He has family ties to Uncle Josh Graves.
Gary and Jim Rea (cousins) were formerly with a band called “The Arkamo Rangers.”
Cassidy is from California and originally wanted to be a rapper. His parents took him to the Huck Finn Bluegrass and Country Jubilee (Victorville, CA) and he became a banjo player instead.
Lawrence was an All State Tenor singer in high school. Majored in vocal performance in college. Later studied at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas with Alan Munde and Joe Carr and was smitten by bluegrass.
2009, won the Telluride Bluegrass Festival band contest.
2010, won the National Single Mike Championship at Silver Dollar City.
2010, released first album Down to My Last Dollar (No Label).
2012, released Can You Hear Me? album (Compass Records).
2013, released Down to My Last Dollar album (Compass).
2015, released Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry album (Compass), a bluegrass remake of the Who’s classic rock opera. They also perform concerts featuring what they call “WhoGrass,” their unique blend of classic rock and bluegrass music.
2018, released The Hillbenders album (Compass).

Hillbilly Gypsies, The

Posted on January 25, 2015January 25, 2015 by WR

THE HILLBILLY GYPSIES

From West Virginia.
Formed in 2001.
Members: Dave Asti (banjo/mandolin), Trae Buckner (guitar, clawhammer banjo), Jamie Lynn Buckner (lead and harmony vocals), Ty Jaquay (fiddle), Ryan Cramer (bass).
They have appeared on Mountain Stage, Song of the Mountains, Woodsongs, Red Barn Radio and The Wheeling Jamboree.
2007, released Come On In album (no label).
2009, won the band competition at DelFest.
2014, released “West Virginia Line” album.

Hillbilly Water

Posted on November 28, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

HILLBILLY WATER

From New Jersey.
Formed in 1993 by Ed Rainey (guitar/Dobro™), Lou Demayo (mandolin), Rich Rainey (banjo), Rob Clores (piano).
2007, released Have a Drink album (no label).
2013, released “Forever Blue” album on their own label. Ken Kosek played fiddle.

Hillman, Chris

Posted on November 28, 2013January 7, 2021 by WR

CHRIS HILLMAN

- From Rancho Santa Fe (San Diego) California. Lives in the Ventura, California area.
- Early-sixties, played mandolin in the San Diego-based bluegrass group, The Scottsville Squirrel Barkers. Also included banjo player Kenny Wertz, an original member of the Country Gazette and Bernie Leadon, who later was a member of the Eagles. Recorded a now-classic supermarket LP in just five hours. Each member of the band was paid $50 for their work on the album.
- Mid-sixties, played with The Golden State Boys (AKA The Hillmen) an L.A.-based band with Don Parmley (Bluegrass Cardinals), Vern Gosdin, and Vern’s late brother Rex Gosdin.
- 1965, he was an original member of The Byrds. Played bass.
- 1969, formed The Flying Burrito Brothers with Gram Parsons, Gene Parsons, Sneaky Pete Kleinow, Al Perkins and several others (the band experienced numerous personnel changes).
- 1971-1975, he and Al Perkins joined Stephen Stills’ band Manassas. He also performed with the Souther-Hillman-Furay band with songwriter John David Souther and ex-Poco member Richie Furay.
- 1976, embarked on solo career.
- 1984, released Desert Rose album (Sugar Hill Records).
- 1985, released a gospel album called Ever Call Ready (Maranatha) with Bernie Leadon, Al Perkins and Jerry Scheff.
- 1985, formed Desert Rose Band with Herb Pedersen, John Jorgensen, Bill Bryson and J.D. Maness. This group had some success in country music (several #1 songs) but broke up in 1995. They have performed several reunion concerts.
- 1991, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Byrds.
- 1996, began recording and performing as a duo with Herb Pedersen, doing mostly classic country music. They released Bakersfield Bound (Sugar Hill Records).
- 1997, 1999, recorded three albums with Tony Rice, Larry Rice and Herb Pedersen as Rice, Rice, Hillman and Pederson.
- 2010, released At Edwards Barn album (Rounder) with Herb Pedersen.
- 2020, published his autobiography Time Between (BMG).

Hillmen, The

Posted on November 28, 2013January 7, 2021 by WR

THE HILLMEN

From Los Angeles, California.
Formed in the early 1960’s by Don Parmley (banjo), Vern Gosdin (guitar) and Rex Gosdin (bass). Chris Hillman (mandolin) joined the group in 1963 after playing with the Scottsville Squirrel Barkers.
The real name of the band was The Golden State Boys. The Hillmen was only used on the release of the group’s album by Sugar Hill Records, years after the group broke up. The album was originally produced by Jim Dickson.
They were regulars on a Los Angeles TV show called “Cal’s Corral” (promoting Cal Worthington’s car dealerships). They also played a various Southern California bars and nightclubs.

Hindsight Bluegrass

Posted on December 22, 2020 by WR

HINDSIGHT BLUEGRASS

From central North Carolina.
Band members: Scott Hancock (guitar), Stan Brown (banjo), Al McCanless (fiddle), Jim Boren (Dobro™) and Julie Brown (bass).
The name comes from the realization when they formed that they should have done it years ago.
2020, released self-titled album (no label).

Hit and Run Bluegrass

Posted on November 28, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

HIT AND RUN BLUEGRASS

From Boulder, Colorado
Formed in 2001 by husband and wife Rebecca Frazier (then Rebecca Hoggan, guitar) and John Frazier (mandolin). Other members of the band: Andy Thorn (banjo), Todd Livingston (Dobro™), Steve Roy (bass.) Gene Libbea (formerly with Nashville Bluegrass Band) played bass in 2003.
2002, won band contest at Rockygrass Bluegrass Festival (Lyons, Colorado).
2003, won band contest at Telluride Music Festival.
2004, released first album Beauty Fades (no label, recorded at Doobie Shea studios).
2005, won band contest at SPBGMA international band competition (Nashville).
2005, released Without Maps Or Charts album (no label).
2006, Rebecca Frazier became the first woman to grace the cover of Flatpicking Guitar magazine.
2006, released “Pickin’ on the 80’s” album (CMH)
2007, John Frazier joined John Cowan’s band full-time and played limited dates with Hit and Run Bluegrass.
2007, released second CMH project Four Finger Music: The Bluegrass Tribute to the Music Made Famous By the Simpsons.
2013, Hit and Run Bluegrass added banjo player Kyle Tuttle and resumed a touring schedule.
2013, Rebecca Frazier released solo project When We Fall (Compass).

Holladay, Ryan

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

RYAN HOLLADAY

From Camden, Tennessee
A child prodigy who made his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry at age five. By age six, had recorded with Earl Scruggs, Tom T. Hall and the Del McCoury Band.
Has appeared on numerous TV shows, including Oprah Winfrey, Nickelodeon and PBS.
Plays banjo, guitar, mandolin and Dobro™.
2004, co-hosted the video curriculum “Discover Bluegrass” with Sierra Hull (produced by IBMA’s Bluegrass in the Schools committee.)
2005, signed with Skaggs Family Records.
2005, toured Japan with country group Trick Pony.

Hollifield, Leonard

Posted on November 11, 2014October 8, 2022 by WR

LEONARD HOLLIFIELD

From Weaverville, North Carolina.
Began playing guitar at age 12.
He is a World War II veteran and former high school teacher.
He has been a sideman in many bands playing guitar and singing.
First professional band: the Herron Valley Trio (with Paul Crouch and Doc Moore).
1960-1975, worked with the Kingsmen Gospel Quartet (appearing on all their recordings and TV shows during this time.)
1975, played with the Stoney Mountain Boys, house band for Asheville’s Mountain Dance and Folk Festival and Shindig on the Green.
2014, at age 88, began a solo career with the release of “A Gentle Southern Wind” album, produced by Bryan Sutton.
2018, died at the age of 91.

Hollow Ground Bluegrass Band

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

HOLLOW GROUND BLUEGRASS BAND

From Nickelsville, Virginia.
Band members: Mike Adams (bass), Jason Blankenship (fiddle), Robert Edwards (guitar), Millard Edwards (banjo), David Holtsclaw (mandolin), Brian Vicchio (guitar).
2013, released “Roads Traveled” album.

Holt, David

Posted on November 28, 2013January 28, 2022 by WR

DAVID HOLT

From Garland, Texas.
Former host of the Nashville Network’s “Fire on the Mountain” TV show, which was the network’s highest-rated show in 1985. Cancelled due to production costs and lack of sponsorship in 1986.
Calls himself “A One Man Celebration of Stories and Songs.”
Plays banjo, guitar, hammered dulcimer, fiddle, bones, autoharp, squeeze box, and jaw harp. Sings, dances, tells folk tales and does a little “hollering.”
Has a one man show called “From Here to Kingdom Come” (Kingdom Come is a community in the hills of Eastern Kentucky.)
A former elementary schoolteacher and a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara.
Established The Appalachian Music Program at Warren Wilson College (North Carolina).
First television exposure: “Folkways” on PBS (1982).
Host of “Riverwalk: Classic Jazz from the Landing” broadcast on the American Public Radio Network live from San Antonio, Texas.
Plays a 125-year-old banjo.
1984, Esquire Magazine selected him as one its first “Annual Register of Men and Women Who Are Changing America” (along with Steven Spielberg, Sally Ride, and Meryl Streep, among others.)
1992 album “Grandfather’s Greatest Hits” nominated for a Grammy Award in “Best Folk Recording” category.
2000, appeared in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou” starring George Clooney. He played one of the village idiots.
2011, formed a trio with Bryan Sutton (guitar) and T. Michael Coleman (bass) and released album “Sutton, Holt and Coleman.”

Holt, Mark

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

MARK HOLT

From Seattle, Washington. Lives in Weippe, Idaho.
Plays guitar, banjo, mandolin and performs with his sister Kimberly as an “acoustic duo” doing mostly western songs with a bluegrass flavor.
Hobbies: professional rodeo, native American art.
2000, appeared on the PBS series “Cowboy Corral.”
2002, recorded first studio album backed by top bluegrass session players.
2006, appointed to the Roots Music Association Advisory Council.

Homner, Wes

Posted on November 28, 2013December 7, 2013 by WR

WES HOMNER

From New Castle, Pennsylvania.
Mandolinist and composer of gospel songs. He is the son of a preacher.
Several of his songs have been recorded by Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, The Lewis Family, Southern Rail and others.
1995, 1999, voted “Bluegrass Artist of the Year” by the International Country Gospel Music Association.
1990-2004, performed with a group called Mountain Therapy.

Hopkins, Paul

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

PAUL HOPKINS

From Kentucky. Grew up in southwest Virginia. Lives in Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Began playing banjo at age 5.
While a teenager, he performed and recorded with this father as “Wibby Lee and Paul Allen.”
Has a degree in electronics from the Coyne Electronics Institute in Chicago.
Has performed with several bands including The Rolling Firestones, Messa Grass and the Virginia Pardners.
Owns two radio stations in Tennessee (WLIJ and WZNG) which broadcast bluegrass music.
2001, released a solo album of banjo tunes with special guests Norman Blake, Roland White, Stuart Duncan, others.

Gilliams, The

Posted on November 27, 2013 by WR

THE GILLIAMS

From Keysville, Virginia.
A family band featuring Spider Gilliam his wife Bonnie and daughters Cheryl and Julie.
Spider Gilliam has worked with the Country Gentlemen and the Seldom Scene.
Spider is a bricklayer by trade. His wife Bonnie is a college administrator.
2001, released album “Family Treasures” on Outlet Records.

Hopkins, Scott

Posted on February 14, 2014January 7, 2015 by WR

SCOTT HOPKINS

From Albany, New York.
Plays banjo in a New York band called Beartracks. Also works with Jim Gaudet and the Railroad Boys.
2013, released a solo project (self-titled) with guest artists Tyler Grant, Stephen Mougin, Mike Compton, Luke Bulla, Andy Hall, Casey Driessen, Becky Buller, Jesse Cobb, Junior Barber, others.

Hoppers, Lonnie

Posted on November 28, 2013November 20, 2024 by WR

LONNIE HOPPERS

From Urbana, Missouri (Kansas City area).
Began playing banjo professionally at age 17 with the “Ozark Opry” at Lake of the Ozarks.
1957-1963, played banjo with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys.
1964-1974, performed in a group with guitarist Dan Crary.
1978-1984, performed at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri.
1982, released solo album “Pickin’ for Fun” (Dungeon)
He and his wife Charlene hosted a bluegrass radio program in Bolivar, Missouri.
1984, formed a band called New Union.
2000, recorded an album with Dan Crary called “Lonnie Hoppers, Dan Crary and their All-American Band.”
2024, died at the age of 89.

Hornsby, Bruce

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

BRUCE HORNSBY

From Williamsburg, Virginia.
A pianist and singer/songwriter who has recorded several bluegrass-flavored songs and albums and won the 2nd-ever Bluegrass Grammy.
1986, released debut album with his band, The Range, which won Grammy for Best New Artist. Had a #1 song with “Mandolin Rain.”
1988, began collaborating with the Grateful Dead. Worked with them frequently from 1990 to 1992.
1989, won Grammy for Best Bluegrass Recording (for the song “Valley Road” from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Vol. 2” album.)
1995, recorded album “Hot House” which featured bluegrass-tinged jazz with Bela Fleck on banjo.
Has recorded many other albums with such artists as Sting, Chaka Khan, Branford Marsalis, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, etc.
2007, released “Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby” album on Skaggs Family Records.
2013, released “Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby Live” album, also on Skaggs Family Records.

Horton, Kenny Ray

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

KENNY RAY HORTON

From Rocky Comfort, Missouri.
2008, joined the U.S. Navy Band Country Current as lead vocalist, guitarist and emcee.
Worked in Nashville as a staff songwriter. Among his credits: “A Soldier’s King” for Kenny Rogers.

Hot Buttered Rum

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

HOT BUTTERED RUM

From the San Francisco Bay Area.
A string band (or jam band) playing music dubbed “high altitude California bluegrass.”
Members: Nat Keefe on guitar, Bryan Horne on the string bass, Erik Yates on the flute, clarinet, banjo and accordion, Zac Matthews and Aaron Redner doubling on mandolin and fiddle.
2005 album produced by Mike Marshall (featuring guests Peter Rowan and Darol Anger).

Hotmud Family, The

Posted on November 28, 2013September 29, 2018 by WR

THE HOTMUD FAMILY

From Spring Valley, Ohio.
Formed in the early 1970’s by Dave and Suzanne Edmundson (guitar/banjo/mandolin); also Rick Good (banjo/guitar/steel guitar).
Lead vocalist Suzanne Edmondson (later Suzanne Thomas) continued her musical career with the Dry Branch Fire Squad and also as a solo artist.
Rick Good continued performing with Ohio groups Rhythm & Shoes and Shoefly.
1974, released “Til We Meet Here Again, or Above” album (Vetco).
1974, released “Stone Mountain Wobble” album (Vetco).
1975, released “Buckeyes in the Briar Patch” album (Vetco).
1978, released “Years in the Making” album (Vetco).
1979, released “Live, As We Know It” album (Flying Fish).
1981, released “Meat and Potatoes and Stuff Like That” album (Flying Fish).
They broke up in 1984.

Hot Rize

Posted on November 28, 2013March 9, 2022 by WR

HOT RIZE

From Boulder, Colorado.
Formed in 1978 by Pete Wernick (banjo), Tim O’Brien (mandolin/fiddle), Mike Scap (guitar) and Charles Sawtelle (bass). Three months after the band’s formation, Scap departed and was replaced by Nick Forster (bass). Sawtelle then switched from bass to guitar.
Prior to the formation of Hot Rize (1976), Wernick and Sawtelle had a Colorado band called the Drifting Ramblers or the Rambling Drifters (they couldn’t make up their mind.)
About the name: Hot Rize is the so-called secret ingredient in Martha White flour, a long-time advertiser on the Grand Ole Opry and for many years sponsor of the Flatt and Scruggs radio show on WSM, Nashville.
The Hot Rize show usually featured an appearance by their alter-ego band, Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers, a western-swing group supposedly from Wyoming that traveled with Hot Rize in the back of the bus. Even though Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers was actually Hot Rize in disguise, the group became very popular in their own right and recorded several albums. (Trailblazer fans were called “Knuckleheads”).
1990, won IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year and broke up. The played their last show together as a full time band at Merlefest.
1991, a year after they broke up, their recording of “Colleen Malone” won the IBMA award for Song of the Year.
Following their break-up, each of the band members pursued their own musical careers: Pete Wernick (also known as “Dr. Banjo” performed with his own band The Live Five and served for several years as president of the IBMA. Tim O’Brien put together his own band called the O’Boys and had success as a songrwriter and solo artist. Nick Forster hosted a live PBS radio show called “E-Town.” Charles Sawtelle built a recording studio and did session work.
1999, guitarist Charles Sawtelle died of cancer (leukemia).
2001, Tim O’Brien became the second member of this band to become president of the IBMA, succeeding his bandmate Peter Wernick.
2007, reunited (with Bryan Sutton playing guitar) to perform at actor/comedian Steve Martin’s wedding.
2009, co-hosted the IBMA Awards show with Kathy Mattea.
2010, performed at the Bonnaroo Music Festival in Manchester, Tennessee.
2014, reunited to record a new album When I’m Free and perform a six-week tour.
2018, released 40th Anniversary Bash live album (Ten in Hand), recorded at the Boulder (Colorado) Theater.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Hot Rize (Flying Fish, 1979)
Radio Boogie (Flying Fish, 1981)
Traditional Ties (Sugar Hill, 1985)
Untold Stories (Sugar Hill, 1987)
Take It Home (Sugar Hill, 1990)
So Long of a Journey: Live at the Boulder Theater (Sugar Hill, 2001) Released ten years after the band broke up.
When I’m Free (Ten in Hand, 2014) New recording by reunited band with Bryan Sutton on guitar.

Hot Strings, The

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

THE HOT STRINGS

From Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
1995, began as a “kid band” featuring Josiah Payne (mandolin), Jared Payne (guitar) and Carson Park (fiddle). At the time, they were 11, 9 and 7 years old.
1997, won the Rockygrass Bluegrass Band contest.
1998, Carson won Colorado State fiddle championship.
1998, Josiah won Colorado State mandolin championship.
1999, won the Telluride band contest.
2000, Josiah won the National Mandolin Championship (Winfield).
2005, released “Uncharted” album produced by Pat Flynn.

Hott, Joe

Posted on June 25, 2018June 22, 2023 by WR

JOE HOTT

From Winchester, Virginia. Grew up in Augusta, West Virginia. Moved to Nashville in 2017.
Began performing as a child after hearing the Lewis Family and Ralph Stanley, his biggest influence.
2012 (at age 16), formed the Short Mountain trio, playing guitar, with his father Gerald Hott (bass) and Jacob Bly (banjo). Short Mountain is a mountain in Virginia near his family’s home place. Released first album Soulful Dream’n (National Media Services).
2013, released “Goodbye for Now” album (National Media Services).
2014, released “Riding the Rails” album (National Media Services).
2015, released “All Original West Virginia Inspirational Bluegrass” (National Media Services).
2016, released Home Far Away album (no label).
2017, formed the Short Mountain Boys which includes Hott (guitar), Aaron Holman (banjo), Jake Riggins (bass), and Nick Bryant (mandolin).
2017, signed with Buddy Lee Attractions, one of Nashville’s top booking agencies.
2018, released “Last Thing on My Mind” album (no label). Backing musicians include Josh Williams, Aaron McDaris, Randy Kohrs, Mike Bub, and Steve Thomas, Sharon White Skaggs and Cheryl White Jones (The Whites).
2019, released West Virginia Rail album (Rural Rhythm).
2020, signed with 615 Hideaway Records for an upcoming project.

Houser, Mark

Posted on November 28, 2013November 3, 2020 by WR

MARK HOUSER (AND BLUEGRASS DRIVE)

From Livingston, Tennessee.
A singer/songwriter who has written or co-written more than 500 songs which have been recorded by numerous country and bluegrass artists including Rodney Atkins, Jack Greene, The Roys, Carrie Hassler and others.
His publishing company “Writers-In House Music” is now located on Nashville’s Music Row.
He is the Field Office Manager for the Tennesse Department of Health and is the former president of the Tennessee Environmental Health Association. He also serves on the board of East Tennesse State University’s College of Environmental Health.
He is also a high school football coach. His son is head football coach at White County High School.
2012, released a solo project of his original songs called “Uneven Road.”

Howard, Randy

Posted on November 28, 2013 by WR

RANDY HOWARD

Originally from Milledgeville, Georgia. Lived in Nashville for most of his career.
1979, at age 18, won the World Fiddling Championship at Union Grove, NC (the youngest ever to win that contest).
He was twelve time National Fiddle Champion. Won his 12th in 1998, surpassing Scotty Stoneman as the all-time national contest winner.
1985, won Grand Masters Fiddle Championship.
Was a longtime member of the Kathy Chiavola Band and was a A-list session musician Nashville. Recorded with many country artists, including Steve Wariner, Faith Hill, Ricky Skaggs, Sweethearts of the Rodeo.
1991, recorded a duet album with John Hartford.
1999, died of cancer.
1999, posthumously won the IBMA award for Fiddle Player of the Year.

Howell, Anthony

Posted on March 3, 2023 by WR

ANTHONY HOWELL

From Zama, Mississippi.
Began playing mandolin at age 11. Since then, he has learned to play all the bluegrass instruments.
2015, played banjo with a local band called Tyler Carroll and Pineridge.
2015, won the Mississippi State flatpick guitar championship, the bluegrass banjo championship, and took second place in the mandolin championship.
2018, joined Williamson Branch, playing banjo.
2021, won the Arkansas State Banjo Championship.
2021, released Memories album (no label).
2022, joined the Edgar Loudermilk band, playing banjo.
2023, released Hold Back the Dawn album (no label).

Huber, Steve

Posted on November 28, 2013November 28, 2018 by WR

STEVE HUBER

From Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Lives in Gallatin, Tennessee.
1981-1991, played banjo with Penn Central.
1985-1991, played banjo with Bob Paisley and Southern Grass.
1991-1992, played banjo with Paul Adkins and Borderline.
1993-1995, played withLarry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time
1995, performed with Bill Monroe on the Grand Ole Opry.
1996-2001, played banjo with Chris Jones and the Night Drivers
1999, founded the Huber Banjo Company.
2001-2005, played banjo with the Kenny and Amanda Smith Band.

Hudson, Brad

Posted on November 10, 2017April 25, 2020 by WR

BRAD HUDSON

From Seymour, Tennessee. Grew up in eastern North Carolina.
A multi-instrumentalist and singer who has performed with The Larkins, Randy Parton, Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road, Jeff and Sheri Easter, Dolly Parton and several variety shows in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
2015, joined Sideline, playing Dobro™ and singing lead vocals.
2017, released solo project Next New Heartbreak (Pinecastle)
2017, left Sideline to pursue a solo career.

Hughes, Donna

Posted on November 28, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

DONNA HUGHES

From Trinity, North Carolina.
A singer/songwriter who began performing as a youngster at her church, Webster Baptist. She became the church pianist.
1999, made her first performance as a singer (in church.)
Has written more than 500 songs. Among them: “My Poor Old Heart” (recorded by Alison Krauss on her Grammy-winning “Lonely Runs Both Ways” album) and “Sad Old Train” (recorded by the Seldom Scene on their “Synchronized” album.)
2000-2002, sang with two bands: Wildwood and Different Directions, both in North Carolina.
She is also a real estate broker and a gymnastics coach (she has coached several state and national champions).
2001, recorded first album “Somewhere in Time” (Running Dog Records).
2003, recorded second album “Same Old Me” (Running Dog Records)
2006, released “Gaining Wisdom” album, produced by Tony Rice (Rounder).
2010, released “Hellos, Goodbyes and Butterflies” album, produced by J.D. Crowe (Rounder).
2014, released “From the Heart,” album on Running Dog Records. Also released “Fly” album (featuring Donna on piano).
2014, released four videos on YouTube: The Red Oak Tree, Walmart Checkout Line, The Facebook Song, and Dog On A 10 Foot Chain.

Hull, Sierra

Posted on November 28, 2013July 22, 2019 by WR

SIERRA HULL (AND HIGHWAY 111)

From Byrdtown, Tennessee.
Considered a prodigy on the mandolin, she recorded her first album at age 10 (2001).
2003, began hosting her own bluegrass festival in Byrdstown (her home town.)
2005, appeared on the IBMA Awards Show with the “Young American Bluegrass Idols,” a tribute to youth in bluegrass music.
2006, hosted a video documentary “Discover Bluegrass” for the IBMA’s Bluegrass in the Schools initiative.
2006, made first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.
2007, formed her own band called Highway 111. Signed with Rounder Records.
2007, played Carnegie Hall.
2008, acted and sang in Billy: The Early Years, a feature film about the life of evangelist Billy Graham.
2008, released Secrets album (Rounder).
2010, released Daybreak album (Rounder).
2013, band members included Jake Stargell (guitar), Christian Ward (fiddle), Jacob Eller (bass) and Cory Walker (banjo).
2014, Justin Moses began working with Sierra full time.
2016, released Weighted Mind album (Rounder), produced by Bela Fleck.
2016, won the IBMA Award for Mandolin Player of the Year.
2017, married Justin Moses (May 14).
2017, won her second IBMA Award for Mandolin Player of the Year (also won in 2016).
2018, won her third IBMA Award for Mandolin Player of the Year (also won in 2016 and 2017).

Hunger Mountain Boys, The

Posted on November 27, 2013February 9, 2020 by WR

THE HUNGER MOUNTAIN BOYS

From the Great Barrington/Monterey, Massachusetts area.
An old-time country duet featuring Kip Beacco (mandolin/fiddle/guitar) and Ted Weber (guitar/dobro).
Weber is also a cornet player in a jazz band and plays pedal steel for a country band.
Beacco also plays with a band called the Beartown Mountain Ramblers.

Hurst, Jim

Posted on November 27, 2013March 22, 2021 by WR

JIM HURST

Born in Middlesboro, Kentucky; grew up in Toledo, Ohio. Lives in Nashville.
Best known as a guitarist, but also plays banjo, mandolin, Dobro™, bass.
At age 7, he stood on a chair to play bass with Bill Monroe.
Drove a truck until breaking into the music business.
Early bands: Red River (with Tim Ellis), Old Hickory (with Vic Jordan and Gene Wooten).
Toured with Holly Dunn and Trisha Yearwood.
1995-1998, worked with Claire Lynch as a member of the Front Porch String Band.
1997, formed a duo with Missy Raines (which broke up in 2007).
Released solo project Open Window (no label).
1997-8, also worked with the John Cowan Band.
2001-2002, won the IBMA award for Guitar Player of the Year.
2005, he and Missy Raines re-joined Claire Lynch to form the Claire Lynch Band.
2007, released solo project Box of Chocolates (no label).
2009, left the Claire Lynch Band.
2011, teamed up with David Grisman and his son Samson Grisman in a band called “The David Grisman Folk-Jazz Trio.” Also toured in a duo with Rob Ickes.

Huskey Jr., Roy

Posted on November 27, 2013 by WR

ROY HUSKEY, JR.

From Nashville, Tennessee.
A legendary bass player (session musician), son of Junior Huskey, who played bass with Flatt and Scruggs and many other Grand Ole Opry stars.
Worked with Chet Atkins, Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Vince Gill, George Jones, Steve Earle, Doc Watson, John Hartford, many others.
1992, 1993, won IBMA award for Bass Player of the Year.
An original member of Emmy Lou Harris’ Nash Ramblers.
Died in 1997 at age 40 of lung cancer.

Hurt, Billy

Posted on March 17, 2015March 17, 2015 by WR

BILLY HURT

From Boonesville, Virginia.
A fiddler who has worked with David Parmley and Continental Divide, The Bluegrass Brothers, Acoustic Endeavors and other bands.
Chief influences: Kenny Baker, Bobby Hicks, Chubby Wise and Clark Kessinger.
1994, won first place in the bluegrass fiddle contest at the Galax Fiddlers Convention.
2011, joined Karl Shiflett and the Big Country Show.
2014, released solo fiddle album Fiddlin’ Billy Hurt (Patuxent Music).

Hutchinson Brothers

Posted on September 29, 2018November 9, 2021 by WR

HUTCHINSON BROTHERS

From Athens (Southeastern) Ohio.
Formed in 1975 by brothers John “J.D.” Hutchinson (guitar) and Bob “Zeke” Hutchinson (banjo) with Greg Dearth (fiddle), Tom Hampton (mandolin) and Tim Sparkman (bass).
John has written many bluegrass songs including “Silver Tongue and Gold Plated Lies” (recorded by Suzanne Thomas, Bill Grant and Delia Belle and others). Several of his songs were recorded by Hot Rize, Thomas Earl Keen and other artists.
1975, released self titled album (Vetco).
1976, released “The Hutchinson Brothers Band” album (Vetco).
2021, John (JD) died at the age of 81.

Gilman, Billy

Posted on March 20, 2023October 18, 2023 by WR

BILLY GILMAN

From Hope Valley, Rhode Island.
Began singing when he was seven years old. He was discovered by Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel and signed his first recording contract with Epic Records at age 12.
2000, released first single One Voice and an album of the same name which was certified double platinum (over two million copies sold). He was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance.
Also in 2000, he released a Christmas album which also went gold (one million copies sold).
2001, released second album Dare to Dream (Epic).
2003, released his third and final album for Epic, Music Through Heartsongs: Songs Based on the Poems of Mattie J.T. Stepanek.
2003, he stopped singing because of changes in his voice during the teen years.
2016, he was a contestant on The Voice (NBC-TV) and at the end of season 11, was declared runner-up to winner Jason “Sundance” Head.
2023, released his first bluegrass album Roller Coaster (Pinecastle).

Goad, John Curtiss

Posted on March 17, 2015August 8, 2024 by WR

JOHN CURTISS GOAD

From Kingsport, Tennessee.
Began performing with his family band The Hawkins County Grass when he was 12 years old (playing bass).
2009, enrolled in East Tennessee State University’s bluegrass music program and continues to serve as a graduate assistant while pursuing a master’s degree in Applachian Studies.
He has been a member of several east Tennessee bands including ETSU’s Bluegrass Pride Band, The Shadow Drifters and the New Hawkins County Grass, which he leads. He has also worked with Larry Sparks, Brand New Strings and James King.
He is contributing writer for Bluegrass Today and serves on the IBMA Board of Directors.
2015, released first single “Regina” (no label).
2024, joined the David Parmley band, playing bass.

Goble, Pete

Posted on November 27, 2013March 1, 2022 by WR

PETE GOBLE

Grew up in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. Later moved to Detroit, Michigan.
Best known as a writer of bluegrass songs.
His songs have been recorded by the Bluegrass Cardinals, The Osborne Brothers, Hot Rize, Larry Sparks, Doyle Lawson, the Country Gentlemen, the Lewis Family and many other artists.
Award-winning compositions: “Tennessee 1949” (Song of the Year, 1988) and “Colleen Malone” (Song of the Year, 1991). These and many other bluegrass standards were co-written by both Goble and his writing partner Leroy Drumm (who died in 2010).
As a performer, recorded two albums with banjo player Bill Emerson, singing lead and playing guitar.
1995, released Webco Classics Volume 1: Emerson & Goble, a collection of their best material from previous recordings (Webco/Pinecastle).
1996, suffered serious injuries when his single engine airplane crashed.
2002, received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA.
2005, released When I’m Knee Deep in Bluegrass (Fireheart Records).
2018, passed away at the age of 86.
2022, he was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.

Goins Brothers, The

Posted on November 27, 2013January 6, 2019 by WR

THE GOINS BROTHERS

From Bramwell, West Virginia.
1951, brothers Melvin Goins (guitar) and Ray Goins (banjo) began performing on a Saturday morning radio program in Bluefield, West Virginia as teenagers. Their early band was called the Shenandoah Playboys.
1953, moved to Pikeville, Kentucky where they worked with the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers (with Cousin Ezra and Curly Ray Cline.)
Following the breakup of The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers in 1958, Melvin and Ray worked with Bill Monroe, the Stanley Brothers, Hylo Brown, and they also worked in the coal mines of eastern Kentucky.
1969, formed their own band The Goins Brothers, recording more than 30 albums on various record labels. Their brother Conley Goins (bass) was also in the band.
Besides their appearances at bluegrass festivals and concerts, they performed regularly for children in rural schools throughout the south, doing as many as four schools a day.
1996, released We’ll Carry On album (Hay Holler).
1997, Ray retired and Melvin formed Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain.
1997, released Run Satan Run album (Hay Holler).
2007, Ray died at the age of 71 after a long illness.
2016, Melvin died at the age of 83 while touring in Canada.

Gold Heart

Posted on November 27, 2013October 31, 2020 by WR

GOLD HEART

From Northern Virginia.
A family band that formed in 2005. They began singing in church.
Features the Gold sisters: Analise (mandolin), Jocelyn (or Jocey) (guitar) and Shelby (fiddle). Their father Trent plays bass.
2006, released “Journey to Heaven’s Bright Shore,” a gospel album.
2008, released “Never Let Go” album (no label) produced by Justine Carbone.
2009, released My Sisters and Me album (Rural Rhythm) also produced by Carbone.
2014, released Places I’ve Been album (Mountain Fever Records) produced by Ron Stewart.

Golding, Wes

Posted on November 27, 2013January 6, 2019 by WR

WES GOLDING

From Lambsburg, Virginia. Lives in Advance, North Carolina—near Winston-Salem.
Began performing at age 8 in a group called the Twin County Partners with his 11-year-old friend Jimmy Arnold.
1972, joined Roanoke, Virginia-based group, The Shenandoah Cut-ups.
1973, he and mandolinist Herschel Sizemore left The Shenandoah Cutups to form The Country Grass.
1975, invited by Ricky Skaggs to sing lead and play guitar in Boone Creek, named after one of Golding’s songs. Keith Whitley had declined because he was working with Jimmy Gaudreau in a new band called The Country Store.
1986, recorded “River of Teardrops” album (Heritage) with his band Surefire.

Goldwing Express

Posted on November 27, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

GOLDWING EXPRESS

From Okmulgee, Oklahoma.
A bluegrass/comedy group consisting of three native American brothers and their father.
The father’s name: Bob Baldridge (mandolin). The Baldridge brothers: Paul Anthony (guitar), Shawn David (bass/fiddle), Steven Joseph (banjo).
They are also known as “Three Indians and the Little White Man.”
The brothers are one-half Creek Indian. Their mother is the full-blooded Indian and their father is the “white man.”
They appear regularly in Branson, Missouri, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and other tourist locations. They wear traditional native American apparel during their shows.

Holstein, Scott

Posted on January 14, 2015 by WR

SCOTT HOLSTEIN

From Madison (Boone County), West Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
A singer/songwriter who grew up in the coal mining region of West Virginia. Almost all of his relatives are connected to the coal mining industry. His grandfather fought in the historic Battle of Blair Mountain (1921).
He began performing at age 5. His parents had a bluegrass gospel group.
1993-1997, played mandolin with The Gillis Brothers.
1998-2004, worked as a utility musician with numerous east coast bands including country singer Charlie Floyd.
2001-2009, played guitar/mandolin/bass with Dave Evans and River Bend.
2003, played banjo with Ernie Thacker and Route 23.
2004-2006, played guitar and sang lead with Larry Gillis.
2010, began his solo career. Formed a band called Old Back 40 and founded his own record label (Coal Records).
2011, released an album of original songs Cold Coal Town (Coal) produced by Randy Kohrs.

Goodfellers, The

Posted on July 19, 2018February 24, 2022 by WR

THE GOODFELLERS

- From Pinnacle, North Carolina.
- Formed in 2011 by Ralph McGee (mandolin) and Teddy Barneycastle (guitar). Other members have included Hersie McMillan (banjo), Tim Hill (bass), Kyser George (lead guitar), David George (bass) and Tommy Morse (banjo).
- Their name is a take-off on the 1990 gangster movie classic “Goodfellas.”
- 2018, released self titled album (no label).
- 2021, released Love Somebody album (Bell Buckle)

Goodwin Brothers, The

Posted on June 8, 2021September 1, 2022 by WR

THE GOODWIN BROTHERS

From East Kentucky
A trio featuring brothers Jonathan (banjo/guitar) and William (mandolin) Goodwin with vocalist Kenneth Chase Bush and other backing musicians.
They recorded their first album in 1999. Jonathan was 14, William was 12.
Jonathan Goodwin is a veteran of the Gospel music industry. Owns a record label and produces many gospel music artists. He is not to be confused with Jonathan Goodwin, the Welsh escape artist and daredevil who rose to fame on the TV Show America’s Got Talent.
William Goodwin was the lead singer with the Gospel group Assembled. They recorded one album in 2015.
Kenneth Chase Bush (known as “Chase”) was a finalist on American Idol (Season 5, 2006). He is a childhood friend of the Goodwin brothers.
2021, released first self-titled bluegrass album (615 Hideaway).
2022, signed with the Mark Newton agency; also signed with Pinecastle Records.

Good Ol’ Persons, The

Posted on November 27, 2013January 6, 2019 by WR

THE GOOD OL’ PERSONS

- From the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Formed in 1975 as an all-girl bluegrass band by Kathy Kallick and Laurie Lewis. They were among the first (after Hazel Dickens & Alice Gerrard) to feature women as bluegrass band leaders and songwriters.
- Other band members included Dorothy Baxter (guitar), Barbara Mendelsohn (banjo), John Reischman (mandolin), Sally Van Meter (Dobro™/banjo), Paul Shelasky (fiddle) and Bethany Raine (bass).
- Name was meant to be a joke—a humorous response to Frank Wakefield’s “Good Ol’ Boys” who were also active in the Bay Area at that time.
- Although bluegrass-based, they featured a variety of musical styles including jazz, swing, Latin, old-time, country and cajun.
- 1977, released The Good Ol’ Persons: California Old-Time Bluegrass Music album (Bay).
- 1983, released I Can’t Stand to Ramble album (Kaleidoscope).
- 1986, released Part of a Story album (Kaleidoscope).
- 1995, celebrated their 20th anniversary with a concert at the Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse, Berkeley. The album Good ‘n’ Live (Sugar Hill) was recorded at that concert.
- 1996, released Anywhere the Wind Blows album (Flat Rock).
- 1996, the group disbanded.
- Kathy Kallick, who led the group for 20 years, now performs with her own band.
- 2013, reunited for a concert at the Freight and Salvage in San Francisco. Band members: Kathy Kallick (guitar), John Reischman (mandolin), Sally Van Meter (resophonic guitar), Annie Staninec (fiddle) and Trisha Gagnon (bass).

Gordons, The

Posted on November 27, 2013January 6, 2019 by WR

THE GORDONS

From Sparta, Illinois. They live on a nature preserve.
A husband/wife duo: Gary and Roberta Gordon. Gary plays guitar and Dobro™; Roberta plays autoharp.
Have been performing together since the mid-1970’s.
1976, released “Southern Illinois Bluegrass” album (no label).
1977, released “The Gordons” album (no label).
Early 80’s, lived and worked in North Carolina.
1988, returned to Southern Illinois.
1989, recorded a bluegrass album with Josh Graves and Kenny Baker.
Roberta is a graphic artist.
Gary sells and repairs instruments. He also has a recording studio.
1995, released “Family Bible” album (no label).
1997, released “End of a Long Hard Day” album (Reception).
1999, released “Live in Holland” album (Strictly Country).
2008, released “Our Time” album (Inside-Out).

Gospel Plowboys, The

Posted on December 7, 2019September 23, 2022 by WR

THE GOSPEL PLOWBOYS

From Salisbury, North Carolina.
A gospel bluegrass band formed in 2012 by David Murph (mandolin). Other members: John Goodson (banjo), Michael Jenkins (guitar), David Brown (guitar and bass), Andrew Brown (bass and resonator guitar), and Kris Miller (guitar).
Stage attire: denim overalls, white shirts and red ties.
Band member Andrew Brown served with the U.S. Army in Afghanistan.
2014, released first album Brethren We Have Met to Worship (no label).
2016, released Welcome Home album (Mountain Fever).
2017, founder and mandolin player Murph died at the age of 58.
2019, banjo player Goodson died at the age of 54.
2019 lineup: Michael Jenkins (mandolin), David Brown (guitar and bass), Andrew Brown (bass and resonator guitar), Kris Miller (guitar), Charles Honeycutt (banjo) and Alec McCallister (fiddle).
2019, released When the Crops Are Laid By album (Mountain Fever), dedicated to the memory of their former bandmates Murph and Goodson.
2022, released Still Standing album (Mountain Fever).

Graham, Randy

Posted on November 27, 2013October 3, 2024 by WR

RANDY GRAHAM

From Chino, California (near Los Angeles). Moved east with the Bluegrass Cardinals.
1972, an original member of the Bluegrass Cardinals. Helped create “The Cardinal Sound” with his distinct tenor vocals.
1982, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver (playing bass).
1985, formed The New Quicksilver with Terry Baucom, Alan Bibey, Jimmy Haley.
1988, re-joined the Bluegrass Cardinals.
1997, re-united the New Quicksilver band as Baucom, Bibey, Graham and Haley (later became Baucom, Bibey and BlueRidge).
2001, joined David Parmley and Continental Divide.
2007, left performing to form a talent agency, the Graham Talent Group.
2020, shut down his agency during the pandemic.
2021, joined Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road.
2022, re-opened his talent agency with a roster including Nothin’ Fancy, the Crowe Brothers, Corey Zink and others.

Grandpa Jones

Posted on November 27, 2013January 16, 2023 by WR

GRANDPA JONES

Born Louis Marshall Jones in Niagra, Kentucky.
Began professional career at age 11.
A guitar player first, then learned banjo in his early twenties. Learned banjo from Cousin Emmy, a flamboyant female performer of the 1930’s.
The “Grandpa” nickname was adopted when he was only 22 years old.
1940’s, formed a gospel-singing group called the Brown’s Ferry Four which included the Delmore Brothers and Merle Travis. The Brown’s Ferry Four tradition was kept alive (in spirit) by the Hee Haw Gospel Quartet.
While in the army in 1944, had a group in Germany called The Munich Mountaineers.
Joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1946 and stayed there until 1949; left soon after to work on the Old Dominion Barn Dance, broadcast out of Richmond, Virginia; returned to the Opry in 1952 only to leave again in 1956 to work on Jimmy Dean’s TV show in Washington, D.C.; 1959, returned to Nashville to stay.
1968, joined the cast of the Hee Haw television show.
1978, elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Daughter Alisa Jones Wall is one of the nation’s most recorded hammered-dulcimer players.
1998, died at the age of 84.
2023, he was inducted into the National Banjo Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED:

Country Music Hall Of Fame: Grandpa Jones (MCA) This album contains most of his classic’s including “Mountain Dew”, “Rattler’s Pup” and “Eight More Miles to Louisville.”

Grant, Bill (and Delia Bell)

Posted on November 27, 2013July 13, 2019 by WR

BILL GRANT AND DELIA BELL

From Hugo, Oklahoma.
1960, Bill Grant and Delia Bell began singing together on a Hugo radio program called The Dixie Hayride. They continued performing together for more than 55 years.
Grant is part Choctaw Indian.
Bell’s given name: Francis Leona Bell. “Delia” was a nickname.
Grant was recognized as “Ambassador of Bluegrass Music” by three Oklahoma governors.
Grant lives on a 360-acre cattle ranch near Hugo, which has been in his family for more than 100 years.
For more then 30 years (1969-2003), Grant hosted one of the biggest bluegrass festivals in the country on his ranch. He called the festival site Salt Creek Park.
Bill Grant and Delia Bell had a band called The Kiamichi Mountain Boys, named after the mountains near their home.
1982, Emmylou Harris produced a solo album for Delia Bell, released on the Warner Brothers label. It reached #35 on the Billboard charts. Emmylou said of Delia Bell: “If Kitty Wells and Hank Williams had had a child—if somehow their voices had been able to spawn a woman singer—Delia Bell would be it.”
2006, they stopped performing for health reasons.
2006, Grant received IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
2008, Grant was recognized as a “Pioneer of Bluegrass Music” by the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky.
They recorded more than a dozen albums for their own label Kiamichi Records as well as albums by County Records, Rebel Records, Rounder Records and Warner Brothers.
2017, Grant was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.
2018, Delia Bell passed away at the age of 83.
2019, Bill Grant passed away at the age of 90.

Grant, Tyler

Posted on November 27, 2013October 3, 2021 by WR

TYLER GRANT

From San Diego, California.
2003, won the Rockygrass Bluegrass Festival guitar contest.
2003, moved to Nashville and joined the Adrienne Young Band.
2004, worked with Casey and Chris (Henry) and the Two Stringers. Also did a tour of China with Abigail Washburn.
2005, placed second at the National Flatpick Guitar Championship in Winfield, KS.
2005, performed and toured with fiddler April Verch.
2006, joined the Drew Emmitt Band (which became the Emmitt-Nershi Band)
2006, released solo project In the Light (FGM)
2007, formed a band called “Tavern Grass.”
2008, won first place at the National Guitar Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
2009, won first place at the Doc Watson Guitar Championship (Merlefest).
2010, formed his own band called Grant Farm.
2010, released Up the Neck album (no label).
2016, released “Earth and Wood” album (Grant Central).
2018, released a duet album with guitarist Robin Kessinger “Kanawha County Flatpicking” (no label).

Grascals, The

Posted on November 27, 2013August 22, 2024 by WR

THE GRASCALS

From Nashville.
Formed in 2004 by Terry Eldredge (guitar), Jimmy Mattingly (fiddle), David Talbot (banjo), Danny Roberts (mandolin), Jamie Johnson (guitar) and Terry Smith (bass).
Eldridge, Talbot and Johnson appeared on a 2001 album called “The Little Grasscals: Nashville’s Superpickers.” This led to their choosing the name The Grascals as their new band name.
2004, began by touring with Dolly Parton on her “Hello I’m Dolly” tour. Released single “Viva Las Vegas” with Dolly singing a verse.
2005, released The Grascals album (Rounder Records).
2005, won IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2005, won IBMA award for Song of the Year (“Me and John and Paul”)
2005, opened for country artists Brooks and Dunn in New York City.
2006, 2007 won IBMA award for Entertainer of the Year.
2006-2009, they were sponsored by Mayberry’s Finest (a food distributor).
2006, released Long List of Heartaches album (Rounder) with guests Steve Wariner, George Jones, Dierks Bentley and the Jordanaires.
2006, banjo player David Talbot left to work full-time with Dolly Parton, replaced by Aaron McDaris.
2008, released Keep on Walkin album (Rounder).
2008, fiddle player Jimmy Mattingly left the band to work with Dolly Parton, replaced by Jeremy Abshire.
2008, banjo player Aaron McDaris was replaced by Kristin Scott Benson.
2008 (November), performed at the White House for a reception honoring President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney and their wives.
2009, sponsored by Mobil Delvac (a diesel engine oil).
1010, released The Famous Lefty Flynn’s album (Rounder).
2010, an RV park in Dothan, Alabama was named after them: “The Grascals Bluegrass Hollow RV Park.”
2010, toured with Hank Williams, Jr., recorded with Dierks Bentley.
2011, released Dance Til Your Stockings Are Hot & Ravelin: A Tribute To The Music Of The Andy Griffith Show (Saguaro Road Records).
2011, released album The Grascals and Friends: Country Classics with a Bluegrass Spin with many guest artists (Cracker Barrel).
2012, released Life Finds A Way album (Mountain Home).
2013, released When I Get My Pay album (Mountain Home).
2015, Jamie Johnson left the band and was replaced by guitarist/vocalist John Bryan (whose grandfather Willard Watson is a first cousin of Doc Watson’s.)
2015, released And Then There’s This album (Mountain Home).
2018, released Before Breakfast album (Mountain Home).
2018, banjo player Kristin Scott Benson won the IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year. She also was given the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Bluegrass and Banjo.
2019, Terry Eldredge left the band and was replaced by Chris Davis.
2019, released Straighten the Curves album (Mountain Home).
2022, Chris Davis left the band and was replaced by original member Jamie Johnson after a seven-year hiatus.
2023, lineup included Jamie Johnson (guitar), Terry Smith (bass), Danny Roberts (mandolin), Kristen Scott Benson (banjo), John Bryan (guitar) and Adam Haynes (fiddle). Haynes departed the band in early ’23 to work with Rhonda Vincent. He was replaced by Jamie Harper (formerly with Sideline and Junior Sisk).
2024, released 20 album, celebrating their 20th anniversary as a band (Mountain Home).

Grass Cats, The

Posted on November 27, 2013July 17, 2024 by WR

THE GRASS CATS

From North Carolina.
Formed in 1997 by Greg Miller (guitar) , Russell Johnson (mandolin), Tim Woodall (banjo), Chris Hill (fiddle) and Jerome Hawkes (bass).
Johnson was formerly lead singer with New Vintage (1989-2000)
Woodall hosts a bluegrass radio show in Raleigh, NC.
1999, released first album “Cattin’ Around” (no label).
2000, released “By Request” album (New Time Records).
2002, released “The Blues are Back in Town” album (New Time).
2004, released “Desperate Times” album (New Time).
2005, released “9 Lives and More” album (New Time).
2007, released Home to Carolina album (New Time).
2009, released A Good Way to Get the Blues album (New Time).
Personnel (2011): Steven Martin (guitar) , Russell Johnson (mandolin), Tim Woodall (bass), Chris Hill (fiddle) and Rick Lafleur on banjo (Rick has a PHD in Physics and is from Canada).
2012, released Mountains My Baby & Me album (New Time).
2015, Bailey Coe joined the band, playing guitar and doing some lead singing.
2015, released The Old School Road album (New Time).
2017, disbanded.

Grass Food and Lodging

Posted on July 6, 2024 by WR

GRASS FOOD AND LODGING

From Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Formed in 1977 by Dede Wyland (Guitar), Ken Finkel (Banjo), Jim Price (Mandolin), Jimmy Driskell (Bass), Peter Knupfer (Fiddle) and Bob Murphy (Dobro™).
1978, released “High Class Bluegrass and Other Roadside Attractions” album (no label)
Disbanded in 1980. Wyland moved to New York and joined Skyline (with Tony Trischka).

Grasshoppers, The

Posted on November 27, 2013February 2, 2014 by WR

THE GRASSHOPPERS

From Caldwell, Idaho.
Formed in 1994.
1999, won the International Pizza Hut Bluegrass Showdown and the Rocky Grass Festival band contest.
Original members: Glen and Jeremy Garrett (father and son) and Randy and Honi Glenn (husband and wife).
2001, group re-organized when Randy and Honi left the band. Honi subsequently married Jeff Deaton (son of Third Tyme Out’s Ray Deaton) and formed a new band called Honi Deaton and Dream.
2002, Glen and Jeremy moved to Nashville and formed a new band. They recorded a gospel album called “Garrett Grass.”
2003, Jeremy joined the Chris Jones Coalition
2004, Jeremy joined Ronnie Bowman’s band, the Committee and also worked with J.D. Crowe, Bobby Osborne, the Waybacks, other bands.
2005, Jeremy co-founded the Infamous Stringdusters.

Grassifieds, The

Posted on December 22, 2020 by WR

THE GRASSIFIEDS

From Walkertown, North Carolina.
Formed in 2006 by Jim Grubbs (mandolin) and brothers Greg (guitar) and Joel Barnett (banjo). Other members of the band include Jerry Martin (guitar), Pete Wright (bass) and Amanda Hinds (fiddle). Martin and Wright were formerly with the band String Fever. Hinds has a Ph.D in biochemistry and is a classically-trained violinist.
2020, released first album What We Are (no label).

Grass is Greener, The

Posted on November 26, 2013February 28, 2015 by WR

THE GRASS IS GREENER

From Los Angeles, California.
An instrumental group formed in 1993 by fiddler Richard Greene. Eventually became “Richard Greene and the Grass is Greener.”
Primarily a recording band, the group included such musicians as Bill Keith, David Grier, Chris Thile, Tim Emmons, Sonny Osborne, Tony Trischka, Kenny Blackwell, Peter Rowan, Buell Neidlinger, Butch Baldassari and others.
1993, recorded self titled album Grass Is Greener (Rebel Records).
1996, recorded Wolves a Howlin album (Rebel Records.)
1997, recorded Sales Tax Toddle album (Rebel Records.)

Grasstowne

Posted on November 26, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

GRASSTOWNE (ALAN BIBEY & GRASSTOWNE)

From Knoxville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2006 by Phil Leadbetter (formerly with Wildfire), Steve Gulley (formerly with Mountain Heart) and Alan Bibey (formerly with Blue Ridge). Also in the original band: Jason Davis (banjo) and Lee Sawyer (bass).
2007, Jamie Booher (of the Boohers) replaced Sawyer on bass. A year later, he left to join Newfound Road.
2007, released first album Road Headin Home (Pinecastle).
2009, released second album The Other Side of Towne (Pinecastle).
2010, Phil Leadbetter left the band. Bibey and Gulley were joined by new members Justin Jenkins (banjo), Kameron Keller (bass) and Adam Haynes (fiddle).
2011, Steve Gulley left to join Dale Ann Bradley. He was replaced by Dustin Pyrtle, nephew of Lou Reid.
2011, released third album Kickin’ Up Dust (Rural Rhythm).
2012, Ronnie Bowman replaced Pyrtle on guitar and lead vocals.
2013, Shannon Slaughter joined the band playing guitar and singing lead vocals.
2014, Jimmy Haley and Gena Britt joined the band. New lineup: Haley (guitar), Britt (bass), Jenkins (banjo) and Bibey (mandolin). The group was re-branded as Alan Bibey and Grasstowne.
2018, added Michael Bentley on guitar and vocals (who also performs with Cumberland Gap Connection); also added Laura Oshaw (fiddle). Other band members include Britt (banjo), Zac MacLamb (bass) and bandleader Bibey (mandolin).
2018, Justin Jenkins re-joined the band, replacing Britt on banjo.
2019, Tony Watt (husband of fiddler Laura Orshaw) joined the band, replacing Bentley on guitar.
2020, Kati Penn joined the band, replacing Laura Orshaw who left to join the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys.
2022, Watt left the band and was replaced by Jeff Huffman.

Graves, “Uncle Josh”

Posted on November 26, 2013 by WR

BUCK “UNCLE JOSH” GRAVES

From Tellico Plains, Tennessee.
Real name: Burkett Howard Graves. Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper called him Buck. Upon joining Flatt and Scruggs, he took on the persona of “Uncle Josh,” part of the Foggy Mountain Boys comedy routine.
He is generally regarded as the man who introduced the Dobro™ to bluegrass music. He was the first to use Earl Scruggs’ three-finger roll with the Dobro™, giving it a new sound and new life. Dobro master Jerry Douglas and many other musicians were inspired by the music of Josh Graves.
Josh’s first Dobro™ is named “Julie.” He bought it for $70 in 1947 and played it throughout his career. He also played an instrument called “Cliff,” named after Cliff Carlisle, it’s previous owner.
1947-1954, worked with Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper as well as Mac Wiseman.
1954-1969, worked with Flatt and Scruggs.
1969-1971, worked with Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass.
1971-1984, worked with The Earl Scruggs Revue.
During the 80’s and 90’s, he performed primarily in a duo with fiddler Kenny Baker.
1991-2, performed with The Masters—a quartet with Eddie Adcock, Jesse McReynolds and Kenny Baker.
1997, he was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
In his later years, had health problems which led to the amputation of both legs. Eddie Adcock built him a device to hold his instrument, allowing him to peform until shortly before his death.
2012, his autobiography was published by the University of Illinois Press, Bluegrass Bluesman: Josh Graves, A Memoir edited by Fred Bartenstein.
Died September 30, 2006.

Graves, Tim

Posted on November 26, 2013September 15, 2022 by WR

TIM GRAVES

From Telleco Plains, Tennessee. Lives in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee.
“Uncle Josh” Graves is in fact his uncle. His father Dick and Josh are brothers.
Was given a Dobro™ by Uncle Josh as a youngster and was taught to play by him.
Age 14, played with Cedar Run.
1979, joined Bobby Smith and the Boys from Shiloh
1981, formed his band “Cherokee”
1982, performed at the World’s Fair in Knoxville.
1983, worked with James Monroe and the Midnight Ramblers
1984-1995, a member of Wilma Lee Cooper’s Clinch Mountain Clan.
1992, re-formed his band Cherokee.
2002, joined the Osborne Brothers band.
2004, re-formed his band Cherokee.
2004, released an album of duets with former New Tradition member Daryl Mosely called “The Beacon Brothers Sound.”
2010, joined Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top Express.
2011, formed The Farm Hands Bluegrass Quartet with Daryl Mosley, Kevin Williamson and Bennie Boling.
2021, his band became known as Tim Graves and the Farm Hands. New members include Don Wayne Reno, Jimmy Haynes and Terry Eldridge.

Fink, Cathy (and Marcy Marxer)

Posted on November 23, 2013February 13, 2015 by WR

CATHY FINK (AND MARCY MARXER)

A folk-singing duo from the Washington DC area.
Specialize in folk music for children.
Have been performing together since 1987.
Cathy is from Montreal, but moved to Takoma Park, Maryland in 1979. Plays banjo and guitar.
Marcy is from Michigan. Worked on production lines at General Motors. Began performing professionally in 1978. Plays guitar, mandolin, hammered dulcimer.
2003, released Bon Appetit! Musical Food Fun album (Rounder).
2005, released Scat Like That album (Rounder).
2009, released Pocket Full of Stardust album (Rounder).

Gray, J.T.

Posted on November 26, 2013October 23, 2024 by WR

J. T. GRAY

From Corinth, Mississippi. Lived in Nashville.
He was best known as the owner of the Station Inn (Nashville bluegrass and acoustic music venue).
As a performer, he recorded and toured with many bands including Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys, Vassar Clements, The Sullivan Family, Tom T. Hall and his own band, the Misty Mountain Boys.
2003, received an IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award for his contributions to bluegrass music (as owner of the Station Inn).
2005, released album It’s About Time album (no label) accompanied by many of the musicians who perform regularly at the Station Inn.
2020, he was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2021, died at the age of 75.

Grayson, Shannon

Posted on March 25, 2015 by WR

SHANNON GRAYSON (AND THE GOLDEN VALLEY BOYS)

From Sunshine, North Carolina.
A banjo player who began his career working with Bill Carlisle in the 1930’s.
1948, formed The Golden Valley Boys, a gospel quartet with string band accompaniment.
1950-1954, he and the Golden Valley Boys recorded for both King and RCA Victor Records.
He also performed with the Briarhoppers.
He was a cabinet maker by trade.
He died in 1993.

Greasy Beans, The

Posted on November 26, 2013 by WR

GREASY BEANS

From Asheville, North Carolina
Formed at Warren Wilson College in 1994 by Josh Haddix (guitar and vocals) and Charley Brophey (mandolin and vocals).
Perform traditional bluegrass with an old-time flavor.
2002, released “Real Live Music” album.
2004, began touring with the North Carolina Dance Theatre, performing the musical “Shindig” (a mountain ballet).
2005, released second album.
2006, toured the Netherlands.
2008, Haddix formed a rock band called The Whappers.
2013, both The Whappers and The Greasy Beans reunited for an Asheville concert.

Grebe, Todd

Posted on December 6, 2013January 20, 2016 by WR

TODD GREBE (AND COLD COUNTRY)

From Anchorage, Alaska.
2003, played with an Alaskan band called Well Strung.
2008, formed his own band Cold Country,
2009, moved to Nashville.
2010-13, toured with Bearfoot.
2011, formed a new version of Cold Country with David Long (mandolin), Mike Bub (bass) and Angela Oudean (fiddle). In 2013, he and Oudean were married.
2012, released Until Tomorrow album (no label).
2015, moved back to Anchorage, formed a “honky-tonk country” version of Cold Country (with drums and electric guitar) and released Citizen album (no label).

Green on the Vyne

Posted on November 25, 2013January 14, 2017 by WR

GREEN ON THE VYNE

From Nashville.
Formed in 2009 and performed together for about two years. At the time, the oldest members of the group (Sydni and Casey) are sixteen years old.
Members: Ty Jackson (guitar), Emily Dean (bass), Sydni Perry (fiddle), Casey Campbell (mandolin), Luke Munday (banjo.)
Sydni had worked previously with Patty Loveless. She had been performing since age 10 in her family band.
Ty Jackson sang in boys choirs since age 8. He also performed with the Nashville Symphony and was the 2008 National Clogging Champion.
Emily was the 2006 Clogging Champion and Buck Dancing Champion and the 2007 Buck Dancing Champion.
Casey Campbell is the son of the legendary fiddler Jimmy Campbell.
2009, released first album Ready for the Picking album (no label).

Greenbriar Boys, The

Posted on November 25, 2013February 10, 2016 by WR

THE GREENBRIAR BOYS

From New York City.
An influential bluegrass band of the sixties (1958-1967) popular with folk music enthusiasts.
Original members: John Herald (guitar), Bob Yellin (banjo), Eric Weissberg (bass), Ralph Rinzler (mandolin).
Performed at the Newport Folk Festival with Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, the Kingston Trio, Bob Dylan and other folk artists.
Besides their own recordings on Vanguard Records, they backed Joan Baez on her 1961 album (Volume 2) and also recorded an album in 1963 for Elektra Records with California folk singer Dian James (Dian and the Greenbriar Boys). That album was produced by Jim Dickson, who also produced albums for the Dillards, the Byrds, Chris Hillman and others.
Mandolin player Ralph Rinzler left the band in 1964 to become folklorist at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. and was replaced by Frank Wakefield until the group broke up in 1970. Rinzler is credited with discovering and/or bringing to national attention many important folk and bluegrass acts, including Doc Watson. Rinzler died in 1994.
Featured vocalist and guitarist John Herald later formed the John Herald Band, based out of Woodstock, New York.
Joe Isaacs (of the Isaacs) replaced Yellin on banjo in 1967. Yellin moved to his homeland of Israel and performed there with a group called “Galilee Grass.” Returned to the U.S. in 1982 and formed a new band with his brother Gene and wife Yona called “Yellin Grass”—which he later re-named “The Joint Chiefs of Bluegrass.”
Original bass player Eric Weissburg is best known for his performance of “Dueling Banjos” which was used in the soundtrack for the movie “Deliverance.” He also recorded an album title “New Dimensions in Banjo and Bluegrass” with Marshall Brickman, a very influential banjo album of the sixties.
1992, the group reunited with a lineup including Yellin and Herald, Richard Greene on bass and fiddle and Greg Garing on mandolin.
John Herald died in 2005 at the age of 65. He committed suicide.
2012, mandolinist and folklorist Ralph Rinzler was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Hall of Fame.

Greencards, The

Posted on November 25, 2013December 27, 2021 by WR

THE GREENCARDS

From Australia and Great Britain. Living in Austin, Texas.
A trio that specializes in “high-energy acoustic music deeply rooted in bluegrass.”
Features vocals by Carol Young, who had two #1 singles in Australia in 2000 (“True Blue Fool” and “Part of the Past”) Hometown: Coff’s Harbor, Australia. Was nominated “Best Female Vocalist” by CMA Australia. Toured with Australia’s top country artist, Slim Dusty.
Mandolinist Kym Warner won 4 consecutive Australian mandolin championships (1994-1997). Hometown: Adelaide, Australia.
Fiddler Eamon McLoughlin was classically trained at the Royal School of Music, London. Hometown: South London, Great Britain. Has toured with the Austin Lounge Lizards.
2003, released debut album Movin On (Dualtone).
2005, toured with Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. Released Weather & Water album (Darling Street).
album.
2007, released Viridian album (Dualtone).
2009, released Fascination album (Sugar Hill).
2011, released The Brick Album (Darling Street).
2013, released Sweetheart of the Sun album (Darling Street).

Greene, Buddy

Posted on November 24, 2013 by WR

BUDDY GREENE

From Macon, Georgia. Lives in Brentwood, Tennessee.
A singer, songwriter, and popular session musician (plays harmonica and guitar). Well-known in southern gospel music.
1983-1986, was a member of Jerry Reed’s band.
1991, won Dove award for Best Country Album (“Sojourner’s Song”).
Has written songs recorded by Kenny Rogers, Wynonna, Kathy Mattea, Reba McIntyre, the Whites, Del McCoury, many others.
2002, released a bluegrass-flavored album called “Rufus” (his middle name) with guest musicians Jerry Douglas, Ron Block, Sam Bush, others.

Greene, Richard

Posted on November 24, 2013April 21, 2020 by WR

RICHARD GREENE

From Los Angeles.
An influential fiddler who worked with Bill Monroe (1966-67) and the short-lived Muleskinner band with Clarence White, Bill Keith and Peter Rowan (1973).
While working with Monroe, he invented “the fiddle chop” which is a bowing technique similar to the mandolin chop that is used to play rhythm.
First band: The Dry City Scat Band (1963). Others: The Pine Valley Boys (1964), The Greenbriar Boys (1965), Jim Kweskin’s Jug Band (1968), Seatrain (1969), The Great American Music Band (early 1970’s, with David Grisman).
First solo project: Duets (Rounder) in 1977, featuring Tony Rice, Tony Trischka, J.D. Crowe and others.
Has recorded and toured with Bruce Springsteen, Henry Mancini, Loggins and Messina, Maria Muldaur, Burt Bacharach, Peter Rowan, others.
He is an award-winning photographer. Some of his photos are on display in the Smithsonian Photo Gallery in Washington, D.C.
1985, formed the Greene String Quartet (a jazz ensemble).
1991, released The Greene Fiddler album (Sierra Records).
1993, formed The Grass is Greener, a bluegrass band that at the time included a 12-year-old Chris Thile.
2005, teamed up with The Brothers Barton (Paul and Loren Barton of Bakersfield, California) to released Shufflin’album (no label).

Greene, Smokey

Posted on November 24, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

SMOKEY GREENE

From Rutland, Vermont. Lives in Florida.
1946, began performing at age 16.
Was a popular country music singer around New York and Vermont in the 50’s and 60’s. During the 70’s, he had a band called “the Green Mountain Boys.” Was also a festival promoter.
1996, after 50 years of performing, recorded his first nationally-distributed album (Pinecastle Records).

Greensky Bluegrass

Posted on September 8, 2014March 1, 2015 by WR

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS

From Kalamazoo, Michigan (original home of Gibson Instruments).
Formed in 2004 by Paul Hoffman (mandolin), Michael Arden Bont (banjo), Michael Devol (bass) and Dave Bruzza (guitar). Anders Beck (Dobro™) joined in 2007.
2006, won the Telluride (Colorado) Band Competition.
Their name implies that they are actually the opposite of a bluegrass band (“Green Sky” vs “Blue Grass”). “We play acoustic instruments but we put on a rock’n’roll show. We play in bigger clubs and theaters, there’s a killer light show, and we’re as loud as your favorite rock band. It’s not easy to make five acoustic instruments sound like this but it’s something we’ve spent years working on.
2007, released Tuesday Letter album (no label).
2008, released Five Interstates album (no label).
2008, released Live at Bell’s album (no label).
2011, released Handguns album (no label).
2014, released If Sorrows Swim album (Big Blue Zoo).

Greenwood Rye

Posted on August 14, 2024August 14, 2024 by WR

GREENWOOD RYE

From Nashville, Tennessee.
A “modern jam-grass” band formed in 2021 as the house band for the Nashville bluegrass supper club Jane’s Hideaway.
Members (2024): Shawn Spencer (guitar, band leader) Cat McDonald (fiddle), David Freeman (mandolin), Taylor Shuck (banjo), & Andy Brown (bass).
Spencer previously had a band called Seven Handle Circus.
2024, released first album Hideaway (no label).

Greers, The

Posted on November 24, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

THE GREERS

From Oregon, now living in O’Fallon, Illinois (near St. Louis, MO.
Formed in 1986.
Features sisters Marla (bass) and Carla (guitar) Greer.
Specialize in traditional bluegrass and Louvin Brothers-style country duets.

Greeson, Daniel

Posted on January 7, 2015December 13, 2019 by WR

DANIEL GREESON

From Greensboro, North Carolina.
Began playing fiddle at age 6.
He has won numerous fiddle contest, both in youth and adult competitions at the Galax and Mt. Airy Fiddler’s Conventions and many others.
He has performed and recorded with youth bands Close Kin and OldGrass.
He is also an avid golfer.
2014, began playing fiddle with the band Rich in Tradition.
2014, at age 16, released first album of fiddle tunes Daniel Greeson (Patuxent Records.)

Gregory, Clinton

Posted on November 24, 2013March 1, 2015 by WR

CLINTON GREGORY

From Martinsville, Virginia. Lives in Nashville.
As a country singer, he had several songs on the Billboard Top 100 charts including “If It Weren’t for Country Music, I’d Go Crazy” and “Play Ruby Play,” among others.
He is a fiddle player and did session work in Nashville.
2012, returned to his bluegrass roots with the release of Roots of My Raising by the Clinton Gregory Bluegrass Band, produced by Scott Vestal.

Grier, David

Posted on November 24, 2013December 9, 2020 by WR

DAVID GRIER

From Laurel, Maryland. Lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
An award-winning flat-pick guitarist who has performed with The Doug Dillard Band, The Big Dogs (with Tony Trischka), Peter Rowan, The Country Gazette and other bands.
Son of Lamar Grier, banjo player with Bill Monroe and The Bluegrass Boys in the late 60’s.
Influenced by Clarence and Roland White, who were family friends of the Griers.
Won his first guitar championship at age 11.
1991, recorded a duet album with mandolinist Mike Compton called Climbing the Walls.
1995-present, performs as a studio musician and solo artist. Also plays with a group called Psychograss.
1996, won his fourth IBMA award for Guitar Player of the Year (also won in 1992, 1993 and 1995).
1999 recorded an album with bassist Todd Phillips and mandolinist Matt Flinner: Todd Phillips, David Grier & Matt Flinner (Alliance Records).
2013, formed a band with Missy Raines (bass), Mike Compton (mandolin) and Shad Cobb (fiddle) called The Helen Highwater String Band.
2020, released Another Nashville Night album (Englehart Music) as The David Grier Band.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Freewheeling (Rounder, 1991).
Lone Soldier (Rounder, 1995).
Panorama (Rounder, 1997)
Hootenanny (Rounder, 1998)
I’ve Got the House to Myself (Dreadnought, 2002)
Evocative (Dreadnought, 2009)
“Ways of the World” (Dreadnought, 2019)

Grim, Angelica

Posted on November 24, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

ANGELICA GRIM

From Northern California.
Began singing at age 13 at the CBA Grass Valley (California) bluegrass festival in the “Kids on Bluegrass” program. Was asked to sing harmony with Rhonda Vincent at one of her shows and that propelled Angelica to pursue singing as a career.
2009, released first album Look For Me at age 19 (Patuxent Records), produced by Frank Solivan.
She is married to TJ Doerful of The Doerfuls (they met at IBMA, 2006).

Grindstaff, Daniel

Posted on November 24, 2013August 13, 2024 by WR

DANIEL GRINDSTAFF

From Elizabethton, Tennessee.
Began playing banjo at age 12. His father played banjo with Carl Story’s Rambling Mountaineers.
2001-2004, at age 18 joined Jim and Jesse’s Virginia Boys. He was the last banjo player to work with both Jim and Jesse. He continued to work with Jesse McReynolds after Jim’s passing.
2004-2006, joined the Osborne Brothers playing banjo when Sonny had shoulder surgery. He continued to work with Bobby after Sonny retired.
2006-2012, worked with Marty Raybon and Full Circle.
2007, released a solo project April’s Fool (no label).
2012-2018, left professional music to stay home with his family. He also has an insurance agency in Elizabethton, Tennessee.
2018, formed a band with Tim Raybon (Marty’s brother) called Merle Monroe, later to become the Tim Raybon Band.
2024, released solo project Heroes and Friends (Bonfire).

Grindstaff, David

Posted on November 24, 2013 by WR

DAVID GRINDSTAFF

From North Carolina.
In high school, played in a band called Highway Bound.
As a student in the Bluegrass, Country and Old Time Music program at East Tennessee State University, played with a band called the Troubadours. Sang lead and played bass. Also plays mandolin.
2010, recorded a solo project titled “Here and Now.”
2011, won the Chris Austin songwriting contest at Merlefest.

Grisman, David

Posted on November 24, 2013October 11, 2024 by WR

DAVID GRISMAN

From Mill Valley, California. Originally from Hackensack, New York
Called “The Paganini of the Mandolin” by the New York Times.
Bill Monroe once acknowledged David as his “heir apparent” to the mandolin.
Began pro career with Red Allen and the Kentuckians (mid-60’s).
Other early bands: The Even Dozen Jug Band (with Maria Muldaur and John Sebastian, later of the Lovin’ Spoonful), The New York Ramblers (with Jody Stecher and Winnie Winston).
1967, moved to California and formed a rock group with Peter Rowan called “Earth Opera.”
1972, performed in Muleskinner with Peter Rowan, Richard Greene and Clarence White.
1973, formed The Great American Music Band, which included at various times, Richard Greene, Vassar Clements, Jerry Garcia, Eric Thompson, John Carlini and Joe Carroll. Performed at The Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.
1973, formed a group with Jerry Garcia, Peter Rowan, Vassar Clements and John Kahn called “Old and In the Way.” Their self-titled album ranks as one of the best selling bluegrass albums of all time.
Calls his music “Dawg” music (after the initials in his name.) Jerry Garcia (of The Grateful Dead) gave him the nickname.
One of the first to successfully fuse bluegrass with jazz.
Since 1975, has performed with his group, The David Grisman Quintet (or Quartet, depending on the number of musicians). First version of this band included guitarist Tony Rice.
Frets Magazine called David’s music “bluegrass-jazz-Gypsy-rock-Middle-Eastern-Hebraic-folk-classical-Grisman.” Billboard Magazine has called it “fire-breathing acoustic string music that fuses the emotional freedom of rock to the tight precision of bluegrass.”
Has worked on albums by Linda Rondstadt, Bonnie Raitt, James Taylor, Judy Collins, Martin Mull, Tom Paxton, the Pointer Sisters, and the Grateful Dead.
Gave Bob Dylan mandolin lessons.
1976, released The David Grisman Rounder Album a landmark album featuring Tony Rice, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Bill Keith, J.D. Crowe and many other bluegrass artists (Rounder).
1976, founded a magazine called “The Mandolin World News.”
Founder and owner of Acoustic Disc records.
Early influences: Ralph Rinzler (of the original Greenbriar Boys) and Frank Wakefield.
1994, released Tone Poems, a duet album with Tony Rice featuring vintage instruments (Acoustic Disc).
1997, released a duet album with Doc Watson, Doc & Dawg (Acoustic Disc).
2000, won IBMA awards for Instrumental Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year (“Bluegrass Mandolin Extravaganza”).
2001, his daughter Gillian produced a film for Sony Pictures called “Grateful Dawg,,” based on the lives, music and friendship of David Grisman and Jerry Garcia.
2002, formed a bluegrass band called The David Grisman Experience. Also formed a reunion band called Old & In the Gray.
2006, released The David Grisman Bluegrass Experience (Acoustic Disc) featuring a band made up of Bay area musicians Keith Little, Jim Nunally and son Samson Grisman.
2023, he was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Groovegrass

Posted on November 24, 2013 by WR

GROOVEGRASS (THE GROOVEGRASS BOYZ)

From Nashville.
A short-lived recording ensemble that has included the Del McCoury Band, Mac Wiseman, Doc Watson, Terry Eldridge, Wilma Lee Cooper, Steve Kaufman, Bernie Leadon and other musicians.
1997, released a bluegrass version of the latin dance hit “Macarena.” They also released a dance version of “Rocky Top” (using the Osborne Brothers’ vocals from the original version). Both recordings reached the Billboard top ten singles chart.
The group was the brain child of Nashville producer Scott Rouse.

Groves, K.C.

Posted on November 24, 2013November 24, 2013 by WR

K. C. GROVES

From Northville, Michigan (near Ann Arbor). She lives in Lyons, Colorado.
Began playing guitar and writing songs in 1991. Also learned mandolin from Colby Maddox (of Special Consensus).
1999, released album “Can You Hear It” produced by the late Charles Sawtelle.
1999, formed an all-female Americana group with singer/songwriter Jo Serrapere called Uncle Earl.
2004, released album “Something Familiar.”

Grower, Nate

Posted on November 23, 2013March 1, 2015 by WR

NATE GROWER

Grew up in Western New York; lives in Delaware.
A fiddle player who has worked with the David Bromberg Angel Band, Chester River Runoff, the Eastman String Band and The Shoremen.
2010, released solo fiddle album Nate Grower (Patuxent Records).

Grubb, Stacy

Posted on November 23, 2013February 9, 2020 by WR

STACY GRUBB

From McDowell County, West Virginia.
She began singing and playing wth her father’s bluegrass band, Alan Johnston and Highway 52.
2009, released “Hurricane” album.
2012, took an extended time off from touring and recording to take care of her one-year-old daughter Lyric who had become seriously ill.
2013, she was inducted as member of the Wheeling (WV) Jamboree.
2014, released From the Barroom to the Steeple album, produced by Clay Hess.

Finnders and Youngberg (FY5)

Posted on November 23, 2013June 27, 2019 by WR

FINNDERS AND YOUNGBERG (FY5)

From Fort Collins, Colorado.
Band members: Mike Finders (guitar), Erin Youngberg (bass), Ryan Drickey (fiddle), Rich Zimmerman (mandolin), Aaron Youngberg (banjo and pedal steel).
Erin and Aaron Youngberg are married and are former members of the band “Hit and Run Bluegrass.” Zimmerman is a former member of a Boulder, Colorado group called “Slipstream.”
2011, released Fy5 album (no label).
2013, released “I Don’t Want Love You Won’t Give Until I Cry” album (no label).
2015, released Eat the Moon album (Swingfingers).
2019, released The Way These Things Go album (Swingfingers).

Fireside Collective

Posted on July 17, 2017March 19, 2020 by WR

FIRESIDE COLLECTIVE

From Asheville, NC.
Formed in 2014 by Jesse Iaquinto (mandolin). Band members: Tommy Maher (Dobro™), Carson White (bass) and Joe Cicero (guitar).
They are students (or former students) of East Tennessee State University, where they met in the school’s music program.
2015, released Shadows and Dreams album (no label)
2016, won the MerleFest Band cometition.
2017, released Life Between the Lines album (no label).
2020, released Elements album (Mountain Home).

Five for the Gospel

Posted on November 23, 2013 by WR

FIVE FOR THE GOSPEL

From Louisa, Kentucky.
Formed in 1991 by Rick May (guitar), Pat Holbrook (bass) and Johnny Branham (banjo).
1995, signed with Hay Holler Records and released seven albums for that label.
May was formerly a guard at the state prison. He is also an ordained Baptist minister.
Branham previously worked with the Goins Brothers and Dave Evans.
1995, did a gospel concert in Durham Cathedral and performed at the Heart of England Bluegrass Festival in Kenilworth, England.
1997, won SPBGMA award for “Traditional Gospel Group of the Year.”

Fisher, Anita

Posted on November 23, 2013December 17, 2015 by WR

ANITA FISHER

From Cedarville, West Virginia.
Began her career performing with a family band called Fisher and Company.
2005, appeared on the CD “Daughters of American Bluegrass.”
2006, married Ray Deaton (formerly with IIIrd Tyme Out), who also joined her band playing bass. They now perform as “The Anita Fisher Band with Ray Deaton.”

Flannery, Tim

Posted on November 23, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

TIM FLANNERY

From San Diego, California. (Was born in Athens, Kentucky.)
A professional baseball player and coach (San Diego Padres 1979-1989 as an infielder, 1992-2002 as third-base coach). Went to two World Series and one All-Star Game. For several years, he did color commentary for local Padres radio and TV broadcasts.
His father was a Baptist minister in Kentucky and gave him his roots in bluegrass, Irish and gospel music.
During his baseball playing days, he performed in the off-season with local musicians, playing mostly Jimmy Buffet-style pop and beach-rock music.
2001, released first acoustic/bluegrass album, produced by Dennis Caplinger. Includes many of his original songs.
2004, released Kentucky Towns album, a tribute to his late father.
2007, joined the coaching staff of the San Francisco Giants (third base) and released Wayward Wind album (no label).
2010, 2014, won the World Series with the Giants.
2014, recorded Travelin Shoes album (no label).
His band is called “The Lunatic Fringe.”
2015, retired from baseball to focus on his music career.

Flashback

Posted on April 6, 2016November 10, 2017 by WR

FLASHBACK

From Tennessee/Kentucky.
Formed in 2015 as a 20-year reunion of the version of J.D. Crowe and his New South band that recorded the album “Flashback.” The group included Crowe, Richard Bennett (guitar), Don Rigsby (mandolin), Curt Chapman (banjo) and Phil Leadbetter (Dobro™).
After Crowe retired in 2016, the band continued to perform together under the name Flashback, with Stuart Wyrick joining them on banjo.
2017, released album Foxhounds and Fiddles (Pinecastle).
2017, Leadbetter retired from the group to take care of his health and to pursue a career in real estate.

Flatt & Scruggs

Posted on November 23, 2013April 27, 2016 by WR

FLATT & SCRUGGS (LESTER FLATT, EARL SCRUGGS AND THE FOGGY MOUNTAIN BOYS)

From Nashville.
Considered by many to be the most important bluegrass band in the history of the music, primarily because they perfected the Monroe sound and exposed it to bigger audiences than ever before. They brought bluegrass from the country schoolhouse to the big city—Carnegie Hall in New York City and San Francisco’s Fillmore Auditorium, to name a few.
Flatt and Scruggs were both members of the “original bluegrass band,” Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys (1945-1948).
They were members of the Grand Ole Opry for 20 years.
They worked together for roughly twenty-one years (1948-1969).
Their early work on Mercury and Columbia during the late 40’s and the 50’s are the considered the “essential bluegrass recordings”—the body of work upon which the entire genre is based. Their songs are classics and continue to be recorded and re-recorded by almost every bluegrass band.
1953, began doing early morning radio shows on WSM (Nashville) sponsored by Marth White Flour, and remained as promoters of the company throughout their career. The Martha White Theme as performed by Flatt and Scruggs is heard on Grand Old Opry broadcasts to this day.
Rose to popular fame during the urban folk music revival of the early sixties. They performed at folk festivals and college campuses, helping to convert an entire new generation to bluegrass music.
Recorded the theme to the CBS-TV show “The Beverly Hillbillies” and made frequent guest appearances on the show.
1966, their recording of “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” was used in the soundtrack for the movie “Bonnie and Clyde” starring Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway.
The Foggy Mountain Boys took its name from the song that Flatt and Scruggs used as their theme—a Carter Family song called “Foggy Mountain Top.”
Broke up in 1969 due to disagreements regarding musical direction. Scruggs left to play progressive music with his sons in “The Earl Scruggs Revue,” and Flatt left to play traditional bluegrass with “The Nashville Grass.”
1981, they were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
1991, they were inducted individually into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, along with Bill Monroe. Several of their band members (the Foggy Mountain Boys) have also been inducted into the Hall of Fame: Curly Seckler, Josh Graves, Benny Martin, Chubby Wise and Paul Warren.
2007, inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Foggy Mountain Jamboree (Columbia 1951) The defining Flatt and Scruggs album.
1948-1959 (Bear Family) This boxed 4-CD set contains more than 100 tracks.
Foggy Mountain Banjo (Columbia, 1963) This album set the bar for every banjo record made since.

Flatt, Lester (and the Nashville Grass)

Posted on November 23, 2013February 24, 2015 by WR

LESTER FLATT (AND THE NASHVILLE GRASS)

From Sparta, Tennessee.
After working with Bill Monroe (1945-1948) and Earl Scruggs (1948-1969), formed his own band “Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass.”
He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
“The Nashville Grass” was the result of a “Name the Band” contest in which Lester’s fans were invited to mail in their suggestions for a new band name.
His Nashville Grass band included such sidemen as Curly Seckler, Marty Stuart, Tater Tate, Kenny Ingram, Vic Jordan, Roland White and others. Marty Stuart joined the Nashville Grass when he was only 13 years old.
After Lester died of a heart ailment in 1979, The Nashville Grass continued on for several years led by Curly Seckler and Flatt sound-alike Willis Spears.

RECOMMENDED:

Flatt On Victor Plus More (RCA Victor)

Flatt Lonesome

Posted on November 23, 2013November 13, 2024 by WR

FLATT LONESOME

From Callahan, Florida (near Jacksonville).
Began as a gospel-singing family band called Sandy Creek Revival, led by Dolton Robertson, who pastors Liberty Baptist Church in Callahan, Florida.
Their name is also the name of an instrumental by Josh Graves, recorded while he was with Flatt & Scruggs. It was also recorded on “The Great Dobro Sessions” album produced by Jerry Douglas (Sugar Hill).
2011, siblings Kelsi (mandolin), Charli (fiddle) and Buddy Robertson (guitar) formed Flatt Lonesome, joined by Dominic Illingworth (bass), Michael Stockton (resophonic guitar) and Paul Harrigill (banjo, now married to Kelsi). Harrigill formerly was a member of Mountain Faith.
2012, won the SPBGMA International Band Championship in Nashville.
2013, released first album Flatt Lonesome for Pisgah Ridge records.
2014 , released second album Too on Mountain Home Records.
2014, won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2015, released Runaway Train album (Mountain Home).
2015, made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry (August 29).
2016, won IBMA Awards for Vocal Group of the Year, Song of the Year (for “You’re the One”) and Album of the Year (for Runaway Train).
2017, won their second IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year.
2018, announced that their intention to disband in 2019, at least temporarily, for personal and family reasons.

Fleck, Bela

Posted on November 23, 2013May 15, 2024 by WR

BELA FLECK

From New York City.
Of Hungarian descent. He was named after the composer Bela Bartok. His brother Ludwig was named after Beethoven.
First musical instruments: guitar and french horn. As a young teen was accepted into the New York High School of Music and Art for artistically gifted students.
Converted to the banjo after hearing “The Beverly Hillbillies” on TV and the movie “Deliverance” featuring “Dueling Banjos.”
Took banjo lessons from Tony Trischka.
1976, formed Tasty Licks with guitarist Pat Enright (now with The Nashville Bluegrass Band).
1979, formed Spectrum with mandolinist Jimmy Gaudreau.
1981-1989, was a member of New Grass Revival.
1990, won the IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year.
1990, formed his jazz group The Flecktones. Spent his life savings to produce their first album, which was subsequently picked up by Warner Brothers.
2000, toured with the Dave Matthews Band.
2005, recorded Throw Down Your Heart in Africa as he researched the music and the instruments that were precursors to the modern banjo. A documentary film of this project was also released.
2008, toured and recorded as a member of Abigail Washburn’s “Sparrow Quartet.” He and Abigail married in 2009.
2011, premiered his “Concerto for Banjo and Orchestra” with the Nashville Symphony.
2014, delivered the keynote address at the IBMA’s World of Bluegrass business conference.
2024, released an album of duets with late jazz pianist Chick Corea Remembrance (no label).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Crossing the Tracks (Rounder, 1979)
Natural Bridge (Rounder, 1982)
Drive (Rounder, 1988)
The Bluegrass Sessions: Tales From The Acoustic Planet, Vol. 2 (Rounder, 1999) with guests Earl Scruggs, John Hartford, Sam Bush, Stuart Duncan, others.
Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn (Rounder, 2014) an album of duets with his wife Abigail Washburn. This album won the Grammy Award (2016) for best folk album.
Echo in the Valley by Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn (Rounder, 2017)
My Bluegrass Heart (BMG) featuring many top bluegrass artists (2021)

Flinner, Matt

Posted on November 23, 2013February 6, 2016 by WR

MATT FLINNER

From Salt Lake City.
1990, won the National Banjo Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
1991, won the National Mandolin Championship. From that point on, decided to make the mandolin his primary instrument.
1997, joined the Judith Edelman band
1998, toured with Todd Phillips and David Grier.
Former bands: Sugarbeat, Tim and Mollie O’Brien, Tony Trischka.
1999, recorded an album of duets with John Lowell (Wheel Hoss, Kane’s River). Also recorded with David Grier and Todd Phillips as a trio.
2002, joined the Modern Mandolin Quartet in Manhattan, Kansas and toured with Leftover Salmon.
2002, formed the Matt Flinner Trio.
2006, his Trio began “Music du Jour” concerts featuring new compositions written on the day of the concert.
2009, his Trio released its Music du Jour album (Compass).
2012, his Trio released Winter Harvest album (Compass).
2016, hit Trio released Traveling Roots album (Compass).

Flynn, Pat

Posted on November 23, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

PAT FLYNN

From Thousand Oaks, California. Lives in Nashville.
1981-1990, played guitar with the New Grass Revival.
During his tenure with NGR, won Frets Magazine Readers Poll for “Best Acoustic Guitarist” five years in a row. For winning five years in a row, he was inducted into Frets Magazine’s “Gallery of Greats” alongside Doc Watson, Chet Atkins and Tony Rice.
After NGR, went back to school and got his masters degree in counseling. Also worked as a studio musician/record producer in Nashville. Among his credits: Crucial Smith, Alan Thornhill, Cadillac Sky and Candace Corrigan.
Wrote and performed on Garth Brooks’ hit single “Do What You Gotta Do.”
2004, served as Tom T. Hall’s musical director for Hall’s “Artist in Residence” program at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville.
2004, returned to recording and performing with his own record label (Request Records).
2005, did shows as “Pat Flynn and Friends” with such artists as John Cowan, Tim O’Brien, Darrell Scott, Stuart Duncan, Buddy Greene, Michael Card and others.
2009, worked with Michael Martin Murphey on his Buckaroo Bluegrass projects.
2009, released solo project ReQuest (Emergent Records).
2010, released follow up project ReVision (Mea Culpa Records).
2013, Flynn was named by Flatpicking Guitar magazine as one of the most influential guitarists of his generation.
2014, released solo project Renew (Mea Culpa Records).

Flowers, Doug

Posted on June 24, 2015November 2, 2021 by WR

DOUG FLOWERS

From Hephzibah, Georgia (near Augusta).
Plays mandolin and has performed mostly as a sideman with such Georgia-based bands as Betty Fisher and the Dixie Mountain Boys and the Little Roy and Lizzie Show. He has also worked with the Clinton Gregory Band.
Formed a band called Avalanche. Currently The Doug Flowers Bluegrass Band.
He is also a songwriters with songs recorded by Clinton Gregory, Betty Fisher, Ronnie Bowman, Valerie Smith, Little Roy and Lizzie Long.
2015, released a solo project “Georgia Rose” (Melody Roundup Music) with guest musicians including Scott Vestal, Clinton Gregory, Ben Speer and John Pennell.
2017, released “Favorites” album (no label) with guest musicians Sam Bush, Marty Raybon, Donna Ulisse, Don Rigsby, Tim Stafford and many others.
2021, released “Brothersville” album (no label).

Fogelberg, Dan

Posted on November 23, 2013February 24, 2015 by WR

DAN FOGELBERG

From Peoria, Illinois.
A country-rock singer and guitarist who had numerous Gold and Platinum albums including Souvenirs (1974), Captured Angel (1975), Nether Lands (1977) and the Innocent Age (1981). Hit songs included “Leader of the Band,” “Hard to Say,” “Run for the Roses,” and “Make Love Stay.”
1985, recorded a landmark bluegrass album called High Country Snows with Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Herb Pederson, Doc Watson, David Grisman and other bluegrass artists.
2007, died at the age of 56 after a long battle with prostate cancer.

Folk, Bradford Lee

Posted on April 28, 2014December 13, 2019 by WR

BRADFORD LEE FOLK

Born in Louisiana, raised in Missouri. Currently lives in Nashville.
After high school, moved to Colorado and formed a band called Open Road.
2012, moved to Nashville and formed Bradford Lee Folk and the Bluegrass Playboys.
He has a small organic farm in Nashville.
2014, released Somewhere Far Away album (Five of Diamonds).
2015, reorganized his band with Jake Stargel (guitar), Cory Walker (banjo), Jarrod Walker (mandolin), Daniel Hyberger (bass) and Christian Ward (fiddle).

Forbes Family, The

Posted on November 23, 2013June 10, 2018 by WR

THE FORBES FAMILY

From Littlestown, Pennsylvania (near Gettysburg). They have also lived in Greenville, Tennessee and Mt. Airy, North Carolina.
A family gospel group consisting of four brothers and sisters: Homer Forbes (banjo), Jay Forbes (mandolin), Lisa Forbes Roberts (vocals), Lori Forbes Slate (bass). They grew up singing at the Free Will Baptist Church in Littlestown, Pennsylvania.
1982, recorded their debut album “I Am Looking For that City” (Lifeline).
1983, released “Gleams of that Golden Morning” album (Rebel).
1985, released “I Am a Pilgrim” album (Rebel).
1986, released “Outside the Gate” album with David Marshall of the Marshall Family (Rebel).
1988, released “Farewell” album and disbanded so that they could raise their families.
1993, began performing again.
1995, released I’ll Look to Him album and showcased at IBMA in Owensboro, Kentucky. Ron Block (of Alison Krauss and Union Station) heard them and was so impressed he produced their next album.
1996, released In the Shadow of Your Wings (Rebel Records), produced by Ron Block.

RECOMMENDED:

Best of Early Forbes Family (Rebel Records) Selections from their early albums.

Forty (40) Horse Mule

Posted on January 30, 2017June 7, 2019 by WR

40 HORSE MULE

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2016, the brainchild of Bennie Boling (bass). Also in the band: Billy Troy (guitar and vocals) and Steve Huber (banjo).
Bennie Boling is a former member of the Farm Hands Quartet (as banjo player in that band). He has also worked with Tim Graves and Cherokee, Mike Scott and his All American Bluegrass Band, Steve Kaufmann and other bands.
Billy Troy (born Billy Graves) is a singer/songwriter, and the son of Bluegrass Hall of Famer Josh Graves. He lives in Omaha, Nebraska.
Their band name comes from a line in a Boling song describing a tractor “… with his ol’ 40 horse Ford Mule.”
2017, released first single “Hell, Fire and Brimstone” (no label).
2018, released second singel “Jack the Tobacco Farmer.” This is the song which includes their band name 40 horse mule.

Foster, Aaron “Frosty”

Posted on June 7, 2016October 13, 2021 by WR

AARON “FROSTY” FOSTER

From Wells Bridge, New York. Now lives in Tennessee.
Began playing guitar at age 10.
2010, while studying business at ETSU, he enrolled in the school’s bluegrass music program
2015, began playing with the ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band. He also teaches music and works with a band called Dreamcatcher.
2016, released solo project Reaping the Blues (no label).
2017, released “Opening Doors” album (no label).
2018, released single “When I Wake Up to Sleep No More” (no label).
2019, joined the Amanda Cook band, playing guitar.
2021, died at the age of 28.

Foster, Billy Joe

Posted on November 23, 2013 by WR

BILLY JOE FOSTER (AND SPECIAL EDITION)

From Duncan, Oklahoma.
A multi-instrumentalist and songwriter who spent time as a sideman with such bands as Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, Joe Diffie and the Ricky Skaggs Band. He also spent two years with the Country Gazette.
1980-1986, formed a band called Special Edition which also included Joe Diffie. Foster re-formed the band in 1996.
2013, died at age 51 after a bout with pneumonia.

Fox Family, The

Posted on November 23, 2013February 24, 2015 by WR

THE FOX FAMILY (3 FOX DRIVE, THE KIM FOX BAND)

From Old Forge, New York (the Adirondack Mountains). Now live in Nashville.
A brother and two sisters (Joel, Kim and Barb Fox).
1989, won the Winterhawk Bluegrass Festival band contest.
Since 1990, they have hosted their own annual bluegrass festival in New York.
1994, Kim won the Merle Watson Songwriting Contest at Merlefest.
1998, the Fox Family disbanded and Kim moved to Nashville to pursue her career as a songwriter. She also formed The Kim Fox Band, with various Nashville musicians including Andrea Roberts (bass) and Jesse Cobb (mandolin.) Her brother Joel would often play banjo.
2005, Kim, Joel and Barb re-united to form a new band called 3 Fox Drive. They released one album Listen to the Music (Koch Records).
2007, 3 Fox Drive was featured on the album Christmas Grass 3 (Koch Records).

Fragment

Posted on November 27, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

FRAGMENT

From Bratislava, Slovak Republic (former Czechoslovakia.)
Formed in 1983 as a newgrass group by Heinrich Novak (Dobro™) and other musicians.
1993, reformed with Novak, Svata Kotas (banjo), Emil Formanek (guitar), Jiri Pola (bass) and Jana Dolakova (vocals).
1994, released “Sunday Afternoon” album.
1995, showcased at IBMA in Owensboro, Kentucky.
1998, won the SPBGMA European Band competition.
2002, Richard Cifersky joined the group, playing banjo.
2002, played the Grand Old Opry in Nashville.
2004, won the European Bluegrass Music Association (EMBA) award for Band of the Year.
2005, released “Live at Leatherwoods” album and “The Way to Your Heart” album.
2005, went through several personnel changes. New members included Ondrej Kosek (fiddle and guitar) and Petr Brandejs (banjo and guitar). Jana Dolalova married musician Stephen Mougin and moved to Nashville.
2007, Ondra Kosak (guitar, mandolin and fiddle) joined the group.
2010, Cifersky re-joined the group.
They have performed in 11 countries and 32 U.S. states. They have recorded 7 albums.
2013, the band reunited for a European tour. (Novak, Dolakova-Mougin, Cifersky, Kosak)

Frank, Ashby

Posted on November 23, 2013August 31, 2023 by WR

ASHBY FRANK

From Lexington, North Carolina.
Mandolin prodigy. Began playing guitar, then turned to mandolin at age 10.
1994, performed with Bill Monroe at the Bell Cove Club in Hendersonville, Tennessee at age 11.
1999, won 1st place in mandolin competition at MerleFest at age 16.
1999, released first album First Crossing (Blue Road).
1999, his newly-formed band Southern Drive won the Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown in Louisville, Kentucky.
2001, joined The Gena Britt Band.
2003, moved to Nashville and joined Ronnie Bowman and the Committee; also worked with Marty Raybon and Full Circle.
2006, joined Alecia Nugent.
2007, joined Special Consensus.
2009, left Special Consensus to play with Mashville Brigade and do session work.
2011, joined Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper; also formed a band called The Likely Culprits with Brandon Bostic, Deanie Richardson, Austin Ward, Ronnie and Garnet Bowman and Melonie Cannon.
2015, joined Mountain Heart.
He also performs in a comedy act called the Darrell Brothers and occasionally performs with The Earls of Leicester.
2022, released solo project Leaving is Believing (Mountain Home).

Franks, Randall

Posted on November 6, 2013 by WR

RANDALL “RANDY” FRANKS

From Chamblee, Georgia. Lives in Atlanta.
Began performing at the age of eight.
Musical career includes singing, songwriting and producing. Plays guitar, bass, mandolin and fiddle.
At age 19, he played fiddle and bass with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys. He has also worked with Jim and Jesse, the Lewis Family, and the Golden River Grass.
1992, received the “Fiddlin’ John Carson Award.”
First love: gospel music. Has performed with gospel artists the Marksmen, the Lewis Family, Jeff and Sheri Easter, and the Singing Perry’s.
He is also a professional actor, a regular on the CBS series “In the Heat of the Night,” playing the part of “Officer Randy” on the Sparta Police Force.
He is active in many community service programs and has his own non-profit “the Share America Foundation.”
Hosts the annual Grand Masters Fiddle Championships.
1992, produced a Christmas album featuring the “Heat” cast and several bluegrass and country music stars (Jim and Jesse, Ralph Stanley, Josh Graves, the Lewis Family, Jimmy Martin, etc.) to benefit drug-abuse prevention programs around the country.
2002, recorded an album of old-time duets with David Davis (Warrior River Boys.)
2004, was inducted into the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame.
2013, was inducted into the Independent Country Music Hall of Fame.
Hobbies: spelunking (caving) and hiking.

Frazier, John

Posted on November 22, 2013November 23, 2013 by WR

JOHN FRAZIER (FRAZIER BAND)

From Nashville. Originally from Boulder Colorado.
He is a multi-instrumentalist (guitar/mandolin/fiddle) who with his wife Rebecca Frazier fronted the group Hit and Run Bluegrass from 2001-2009.
2009, toured with Steve Martin and Steep Canyon Rangers. He was co-writer of “Go Away, Stop, Turn Around” with Steve Martin (recorded on Martin’s “Rare Bird Alert” album.
2010, joined the John Cowan band. Also worked with Jim Lauderdale.
z012, formed the Frazier Band, a blend of blues, reggae, soul, bluegrass and rock. Released the album “Frazier Band.”

Frazier, Rebecca

Posted on November 22, 2013October 21, 2024 by WR

REBECCA FRAZIER

Originally from Virginia.
Maiden name: Rebecca Hoggan.
2002, while living in Boulder, Colorado, she co-founded Hit and Run Bluegrass with her husband John Frazier. In that band, she played guitar, sang lead and wrote many of the band’s songs. They won the Rockygrass band competition that year.
2002, she was the first female artist to appear on the cover of Flatpicking Guitar magazine.
Moved to Nashville in 2007. Her husband John took a job with the John Cowan Band and she became a full-time mom.
2010, after unexpectedly losing her second son, she began to write, sing and play again. “I knew I could rely on creativity and hope in order to heal,” she says.
2013, released a solo project When We Fall (Compass) and began touring as Rebecca Frazier and Hit & Run Bluegrass.
2024, released Boarding Windows in Paradise (Compass).

Freight Hoppers, The

Posted on November 22, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

THE FREIGHT HOPPERS

From Bryson City, North Carolina.
Formed in 1993.
Appeared on Garrison Keillor’s “A Prairie Home Companion” after entering his “Talent from Towns Under 2000” contest and being selected from 492 entrants.
A traditional string band, their music pre-dates bluegrass. They play music from the 20’s and 30’s, from artists like the Skillet Lickers, Uncle Dave Macon and the Carter Family.
Band members: Dave Bass (fiddle), Frank Lee (banjo), Cary Fridley (guitar) and Jim O’Keefe/Hanne Jorgenson (bass.)
1996, released Where’d You Come From Where’d You Go (Rounder).
1998, released Waiting On The Gravy Train (Rounder).
Broke up in 1999, re-formed, then broke up again in 2001.
Fiddler Rayna Gellert worked with this band for a time and also in a duo with Frank Lee. She joined Uncle Earl in 2003.
2007, after a five-year hiatus, original members Bass and Lee re-formed the band, joined by Thomas Bailey (guitar) and Isaac Deal (bass).
2010, released Mile Marker album (no label).

Fricke, Janie

Posted on November 22, 2013February 26, 2015 by WR

JANIE FRICKE

From Nashville (grew up in Indiana).
One of the top “pop-country” artists of the 1980’s.
1982, won the CMA award for Female Vocalist of the Year.
1983, won the Academy of Country Music Award for Top Female Vocalist.
2004, recorded a bluegrass album of her country hits “The Bluegrass Sessions.” It was re-released in 2011 as Country Side of Bluegrass (New Music Deals).

Fritts Family Band, The

Posted on November 22, 2013August 3, 2020 by WR

THE FRITTS FAMILY BAND

From Rogersville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1986.
Features Larry Fritts (banjo/guitar) who began playing bluegrass when he was 12 years old.
Band includes Fritts’ wife, three sons and daughter.
Many of their concerts are sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Larry Fritts’ first band was a group called Bud Rose and the Country Tune Twisters (Elizabethton, Tennessee.)

Front Country

Posted on September 8, 2014March 26, 2017 by WR

FRONT COUNTRY

From the San Francisco (CA) Bay area.
Formed in 2011 by Adam Roszkiewicz (mandolin), Jacob Groopman (guitar), Jordan Klein (banjo), Leif Karlstrom (fiddle), Melody Walker (lead vocals, guitar) and Zach Sharpe (bass). Jeremy Darrow (bass) replaced Sharpe when the group relocated to Nashville.
They began playing a monthly gig with friends in San Francisco’s Mission District.
Their name means “a natural area nearer to the roads and populated areas,” the opposite of the “back country.”
2012, won the Rockygrass(Colorado) band competition.
2013, released This Is Front Country album (no label).
2013 won the Telluride (Colorado) band competition (became first band in history to win both Rockygrass and Telluride.)
2013, lead singer Melody Walker won the Chris Austin Songwriting competition at Merlefest.
2013, Roszkiewicz (mandolin) was nominated for a Grammy for his work with the Modern Mandolin Quartet on their album Americana.
2014, released Sake of the Sound album (no label).
2016, Melody Walker won the IBMA Momentum Award for Vocalist of the Year.
2017, released Other Love Songs album (Organic).

Front Porch String Band, The

Posted on November 22, 2013November 16, 2024 by WR

THE FRONT PORCH STRING BAND

From Hazel Green, Alabama.
Formed in 1974 by Larry and Claire Lynch on the campus of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Other band members have included Allen Watkins (banjo), Terry Campbell (bass), Alan O’Bryant (banjo), Jim Hurst (guitar/banjo) and Michael McLain (banjo).
They were originally called Hickory Wind.
1977, released “Smilin’ at You” album (no label).
1977, released “Country Rain” album (Lanark).
1980, released landmark album Front Porch String Band (Leather/reissued by Rebel) featuring the lead vocals of Claire Lynch. They disbanded during the eighties, the Lynch’s taking time off from music to begin a family. They re-organized the group ten years later.
1991, released “Lines and Traces” album (Rebel).
1997, the group disbanded for good.
2005, Claire began her solo career with her own Claire Lynch Band.
2012, released Hills of Alabam: The Front Porch String Band featuring Claire Lynch (Rebel).

Front Range

Posted on November 22, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

FRONT RANGE

Formed in 1984 in Denver, Colorado, but only two band members ever lived there (Mike Lantz, Ron Lynam). Dick and Amos live in Pennsylvania and Vermont respectively.
The name “Front Range” comes from the name given to the eastern slopes of the Colorado Rockies.
1988, recorded first album (a cassette). Original band included Peter Schwimmer on banjo.
1990, recorded second album in their own studio on their own record label. Mailed 500 copies to radio stations and the song “High Mountain Meadow” became a #1 song.
1992, released New Frontier album (Sugar Hill).
1993, released Back to Red River album (Sugar Hill).
1995, released One Beautiful Day album (Sugar Hill). Won the IBMA award for Gospel Recording of the Year.
Banjo player Ron Lynam is the world’s undisputed “Underwater Banjo Champion.” He accomplished this feat by playing an aluminum banjo underwater in a pool at the Midwinter (Ft. Collins, CO) Bluegrass Festival. It has become an annual event. He is also a high school social studies teacher.
1997, released Ramblin’ on My Mind album (Sugar Hill).
2000, released Silent Ground album (Sugar Hill).
Lead singer Bob Amos is a prolific songwriter with a master’s degree in geology.
2004, the group recorded its last album together.
2006, mandolinist Mike Lantz died of brain cancer.
2012, Bob Amos recorded a solo project called Borrowed Time (no label).

Frye, Travis (and Blue Mountain)

Posted on September 27, 2014December 22, 2017 by WR

TRAVIS FRYE AND BLUE MOUNTAIN

From Mt Airy, North Carolina.
Band includes Travis Frye (guitar), Hunter Motts (banjo), Henry Mabe (fiddle), Tim Frye (mandolin) and Renee Martin (bass).
Frye is DJ on WPAQ radio in Mt. Airy.
2014, released Living In A Moment album (Kindred Records).

Fulks, Robbie

Posted on February 18, 2023 by WR

ROBBIE FULKS

From York, Pennsylvania. Grew up in the Blue Ridge of Virginia.
1983, moved to Chicago and joined Special Consensus, playing guitar.
1984-1992, taught at the Old Town School of Folk Music (Chicago).
1993-1998, moved to Nashville and worked as a staff songwriter on Music Row.
As a singer/songwriter, he has recorded numerous albums in the Americana/Folk genres.
2023, released first all-bluegrass album Bluegrass Vacation (Compass) featuring Sam Bush, Sierra Hull, Ronnie McCoury, Tim O’Brien, Alison Brown, John Cowan, Jerry Douglas & others.

Edelman, Judith

Posted on November 20, 2013February 4, 2015 by WR

JUDITH EDELMAN

From New York City. Has lived in Idaho, Jackson Hole, Nashville.
1993-1995, sang lead with a Crested Butte, Colorado band called Ryestraw.
1996, formed her Judith Edelman Band with Matt Flinner and Tony Furtado (of Sugarbeat); Released album Perfect World (Compass).
1997, added Ben Winship to her band (of Loose Ties).
1998, released Only Sun album (Compass).
2000, released Drama Queen album (Compass).
Music is her second career. Her first was international development. In 1990, she was working in Africa when she decided to take guitar lessons and pursue a career in music. She also has experience as a rape crisis counselor.
Is also a classically-trained pianist.
Her father won a Nobel Prize in 1972.
2003, formed an electric Judith Edelman band.
2009, released Clear Glass Jar album (Thirty-One Tigers).

Edwards, Ray

Posted on November 20, 2013August 31, 2018 by WR

RAY EDWARDS (AND HARD ROCK MOUNTAIN)

From Arcadia, North Carolina.
A bluegrass multi-instrumentalist, he won the banjo championships at Carlton Haney’s Camp Springs Bluegrass Festival (1973) and Union Grove Fiddler’s Convention (1974).
1970, joined the High Country Boys.
1973, worked with Southbound.
1975, worked with Jeannie C. Riley.
1978, worked with Tom T. Hall.
1984, worked with Ed Bruce.
Best known as a songwriter, he co-wrote “Hard Rock Mountain Prison (‘Til I Die)” with Larry Cox and Terry Foust, a #1 song for Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out. His songs have also been recorded by Darrell Webb, Monroeville, Nu-Blu, Grasstowne, Special Consensus, Jeannette Williams and many other bluegrass artists.
2012, released Portrait of a Bluegrass Songwriter (Rural Rhythm) with his band Hard Rock Mountain featuring Edwards’ songs recorded by other artists.
2018, released A Golden Anniversary Celebration album (Pinecastle).

Efaw, Larry (and the Bluegrass Mountaineers)

Posted on May 6, 2022 by WR

LARRY EFAW AND THE BLUEGRASS MOUNTAINEERS

From New Franklin, Ohio (near Akron).
Began playing mandolin at age 7 and performed with his father’s band The Bluegrass Mountaineers until his father’s retirement. The younger Efaw has led the band since the late 1980’s.
A friend of Ralph Stanley, Efaw and his band play bluegrass in the style of the Stanley Brothers and other traditional bands.
Efaw is also a producer of bluegrass festivals, cruises and other music events.
Band members (2022): Efaw (mandolin), Logan Leab (guitar), Curtis Coleman (banjo), Adam Burrows (fiddle), and Mikayla Burrows (bass).
1988, released “I Worship You” album (River Tracks).
2013, released She Left Me Standing on the Mountain album (Blue Circle).
2022, released The Old Home album (Bell Buckle).

Ekstein, Rudi

Posted on April 10, 2019April 11, 2019 by WR

RUDI EKSTEIN

From Asheville, NC. He was born in Kansas and lived most of his life in southern California (Los Angeles).
The son of Austian immigrants, his surname Ekstein is translated “Cornerstone” in English.
1970’s, began learning all the bluegrass instruments: banjo, mandolin, guitar, and later, upright bass and Dobro™. Played in several southern California bands with good friend and banjo player Billy Constable.
1987, recorded, engineered and produced his first band project featuring his band Foxfire.
1990, founded Foxfire Recording studio in Van Nuys, Calif. where he produced and/or engineered numerous albums for such labels as CMH, Rounder, and Sugar Hill. Artists recorded included Tony Rice, Larry Rice, Chris Hillman, the Laurel Canyon Ramblers, Steve Spurgin, Josh Graves, David Grisman, Gabe Witcher, Richard Greene, Bill Keith, David Grier, Dennis Caplinger, Gene Libbea, Leroy Mack, Patrick Sauber, Herb Pedersen, Bill Bryson, and many others. He was also producer and artist on several albums in the CMH “Pickin’ On” series.
1990, played mandolin with the LA-based band Liberty. They recorded one album “Cornerstone” that was released in 1995.
2004-2006 played with the southern California band Silverado.
2009, moved to Asheville, NC to play with old friend Billy Constable and build a new recording studio.
2012-2015, worked with the Bobby Hicks band and Blue Wheel Drive.
2015, produced an album for Blue Wheel Drive called Hard Driving Bluegrass (Foxfire).
2018, released a solo project Carolina Chimes (Foxfire) featuring his original instrumentals with supporting musicians Stuart Duncan (fiddle), Mark Schatz (bass), Jeff Autry (guitar), Patrick Sauber (banjo) and others.

Eldredge, Terry

Posted on November 20, 2013June 22, 2024 by WR

TERRY ELDREDGE

From Terre Haute, Indiana. Lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Nickname: “Bo-Bo Batelbe”
1978, while still in high school, played bass with Louie Popejoy and the the Heirs of Bluegrass (Terre Haute).
1981, first pro job (age 17), played bass with Lonzo and Oscar on the Grand Ole Opry. His brother Grady played banjo.
1987, worked with Mike Scott and his All-American Band.
1986, worked with Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper.
1988-2000, worked with Osborne Brothers, playing upright bass. He later switched to guitar and lead vocals when Terry Smith joined the band, playing bass.
1989, formed a part-time band called the Sidemen.
2000, joined Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time. Also formed part-time bands, the Sidemen and Drive Time.
2001, he was in a serious auto accident. The force of the collision broke Terry’s ribs, shattered his left leg, ruptured his spleen, punctured his lung and cracked vertebrae in his neck. His recovery took seven months.
2002, toured with Dolly Parton.
2004, left Larry Cordle’s band and formed The Grascals with Jimmy Mattingly, David Talbot, Terry Smith, Danny Roberts and Jamie Johnson.
For several years, he did voice imaging work for Sirius/XM radio’s “Bluegrass Junction.”
2019, left the Grascals after 15 years, retiring (temporarily) from music while he took time off to recover from alcohol abuse.
2022, joined the Farm Hands, playing bass.

Elkville String Band, The

Posted on November 20, 2013February 26, 2015 by WR

THE ELKVILLE STRING BAND

From Wilkes County, North Carolina
Formed in 2001 by Jerry Lankford.
They take their name from the Wilkes County town of Elkville – now known as Ferguson – where Tom Dooley was born.
Band members: Drake Walsh (fiddle/mandolin/guitar), Herb Key (guitar), Jeff Michael (banjo/guitar/mandolin), Bill Williams (bass)
For several years, they served as the house band for a Wilkesboro musical production called “Tom Dooley: a Wilkes County Legend.”
Drake Walsh is the son of RCA/Columbia recording artist Dock Walsh, founding member (with Clarence Ashley) of the Carolina Tar Heels (1925).
2008, released Over the Mountain album with guest guitarist Wayne Henderson

Ellis, Tony

Posted on November 20, 2013October 24, 2016 by WR

TONY ELLIS

From Silva, North Carolina. Lives in Ohio.
Began playing banjo at age 14.
Early bands: The Virginia Mountaineers and the Shady Valley Boys.
1960-1962, played with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
After leaving Monroe’s band, he worked with Mac Wiseman, The Beaver Creek Boys (Bristol, Tennessee) and The All American Boys (with Tom Ewing).
1987, released Dixie Banner album (Flying Fish).
1993, released “Farewell My Home” album (Flying Fish).
1996, performed at the Olympics.
1998, released Quaker Girl album (County).
1999, released “Sounds Like Bluegrass To Me” album (Copper Creek).
2002, formed Tony Ellis and the Musicians of Braeburn. He tours internationally with the U.S. State Department.
2005, performed with Steve Martin, Earl Scruggs, and Peter Wernick on the Dave Letterman show as “Men with Banjos Who Know How to Use Them.”

Ellis, Wyatt

Posted on July 17, 2023February 12, 2024 by WR

WYATT ELLIS

From Maryville, Tennessee.
He began playing mandolin at age 10.
2020 (age 11), he was selected for a Tennessee Folklife apprenticeship under the tutelage of Sierra Hull.
2022 (age 12), he performed at the IBMA Awards show with Peter Rowan’s Bluegrass Band (for Rowan’s induction into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame).
2023 (age 13), appeared at the Grand Ole Opry with Dailey and Vincent.
2023 (age 13), performed with Billy Strings at the celebration of Doc Watson’s 100th birthday.
2023, released first single “Grassy Creek” (Knee High Records), an original tune he wrote at age 11.
2023, made his first appearance as a solo artist on the Grand Ole Opry (age 14).
2024, released Happy Valley album (Knee High).

Emerson, Bill

Posted on November 20, 2013August 22, 2021 by WR

BILL EMERSON (AND SWEET DIXIE)

From Washington, D.C.
He is considered of the most influential five-string banjo players in bluegrass music.
1955, first pro job: “Uncle Bob and the Blue Ridge Partners.”
1957, he was a founding member of The Country Gentlemen. He left after a few months and was replaced by Eddie Adcock. Returned to the Country Gentlemen 12 years later.
1958-1969, worked with the Stoneman Family, Red Allen, Jimmy Martin, and Cliff Waldron—in that order.
1966, he and Cliff Waldron recorded the first bluegrass version of the Mannfred Mann song “Fox on the Run.”
1969, returned to The Country Gentlemen.
1973, joined the Navy and played banjo with the U.S. Navy band Country Current (until 1992 when he retired.)
1988, worked with Pete Goble on several projects. Their song “Tennessee 1949” won the IBMA Song of the Year award.
1988, was inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame.
1994, released a duet album with US Navy band member Wayne Taylor “Appaloosa” (Webco).
1996, released Banjo Man album (Webco/Pinecastle).
1998, recorded and performed with Mark Newton.
2007, came out of retirement to form his Sweet Dixie Band. Released Bill Emerson & The Sweet Dixie Band album (Rebel Records).
2010, released Southern album (Rural Rhythm).
2011, released solo project Eclipse (Rural Rhythm).
2012, released The Touch of Time album (Rural Rhythm).
2014, released Dancin’ Annie album (Rural Rhythm).
2016, received the IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
2019, formed a group with his son Billy called Emerson 414 (414 is the number on his long-time residence). They released a self-titled EP and were signed by 615 Hideaway Records for a forthcoming album.
2019, was inducted into the IBMA’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2021, died at the age of 83.

Emmit, Drew

Posted on November 20, 2013February 4, 2015 by WR

DREW EMMITT

From Boulder, Colorado.
Plays mandolin. Influenced heavily by Sam Bush.
1984, formed the Left Hand String Band.
1992, formed Leftover Salmon.
2002, released Freedom Ride album with the John Cowan Band (Compass).
2005, formed the Drew Emmitt Band and released second project Across the Bridge (Compass) featuring Cowan, Bush, and the Del McCoury Band.
2008, released Long Road album (Compass).
2010, returned to Leftover Salmon.

Engle, Troy

Posted on August 8, 2018October 29, 2024 by WR

TROY ENGLE (AND SOUTHERN SKIES)

From Glen Rock, Pennsylvania
He is a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has worked as a sideman with Patty Loveless, Buddy Jewell, The Isaacs, Larry Sparks, Mark Newton, Leon Russell and others.
He has co-written several songs with Tom T. and Dixie Hall.
He composed instrumental tracks heard on TV Shows like the Voice, American Pickers, Duck Dynasty and others.
2015, after living and working in Nashville for 12 years, he returned to his home in Pennsylvania.
2018, released solo project Southern Skies (Rocky Glen). On this album, he wrote all the songs, played all the instruments, sang all the vocal parts and did all the recording/mixing.
He performs with his band Southern Skies, named for one of his songs.
2020, released Fox Hollow Memories: Songs I Wrote with Dixie and Tom T. Hall album (Rocky Glen).
2023, signed with Pinecastle Records and released Back Home album.

Enright, Pat

Posted on November 20, 2013 by WR

PAT ENRIGHT

Originally from Indiana. Lived in the San Francisco bay area in the early 70’s. Now resides in Nashville.
1976, formed a San Francisco group called “Phantoms of the Opry.”
1979, joined Tasty Licks, a band that included Jack Tottle and Bela Fleck.
1983, formed a Nashville band called The Dreadful Snakes.
1984, was a founding member of the Nashville Bluegrass Band, playing guitar and singing lead vocals.
2000, appeared in the movie “O Brother Where Art Thou” and sang on the soundtrack album. He was one of the Soggy Bottom Boys.

Evans, Bill

Posted on November 20, 2013February 2, 2024 by WR

BILL EVANS

From Charlottesville, Virginia. Has lived in California, New Mexico, Kentucky, recently moved back to Virginia.
Has degrees in anthropology and music from University of Virginia and a Ph.D in Ethno-musicology from UC Berkeley.
1980-1986, played banjo with Cloud Valley (a Virginia band).
1993-1997, played banjo with the Dry Branch Fire Squad.
1994-5, served as the curator of the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro.
1995, released solo album Native and Fine (Rounder Records).
1996, was elected to the IBMA Board of Directors.
1997, left the Dry Branch Fire Squad to perform solo and to work on his Ph.D.
1997, began performing a one-man show called “The Banjo in America: A Musical and Cultural History.”
2001, started his own record label (Native and Fine Records). Released Bill Evans Plays Banjo album.
In addition to his solo performances, he is a member of two bands: The Bluegrass Intentions and Due West. He also tours extensively with banjo player Alan Munde.
2008, formed a duo with fiddler Megan Lynch and recorded a CD with her titled Let’s Do Something (Native and Fine).
2012, released In Good Company album with a variety of guest musicians (Native and Fine).
2013, recorded an album with fiddler Fletcher Bright Fine Times At Fletcher’s House: Fiddle and Banjo Music from Lookout Mountain, Tennessee (Native and Fine).
2022, was awarded the Steve Martin Banjo Prize.
2024, was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.

Evans, Dave (and River Bend)

Posted on November 20, 2013March 21, 2024 by WR

DAVE EVANS (AND RIVER BEND)

From Portsmouth, Ohio. Lived in Olive Hill, Kentucky.
His given name is actually William, but he became known as “Dave.”
Was one of the few banjo-picking lead singers in bluegrass music.
First pro job: with Earl Taylor and the Stoney Mountain Boys (in Yakima Washington).
1972, joined Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers.
1975-1978, worked with Lillimae and the Dixie Gospelaires, Red Allen and the Kentuckians, the Boys from Indiana.
1978, formed his own group River Bend.
1979, released “Highway 52” album (Vetco).
1980, released “Call Me Long Gone” album (Vetco).
1981, released “Goin’ Round This World” album (Rebel).
1982, released “A Few More Seasons” album (Rebel).
1983, released “Poor Rambler” album (Rebel).
1984, released “Bluegrass Memories” album (Rebel).
1985, released “Close to Home” album (Rebel).
1989, his career suffered a setback when he was sentenced to serve ten years in a federal penitentiary on a felonious assault charge. He served six years and was released in 1995.
While in prison, he learned to play guitar.
1996, began performing and recording again.
1997, released Just Look at Me Now album (Rebel).
2000, released Bad Moon Shining album (Rebel).
2002, released Hang a Light Out for Me album (Rebel).
2003, released High Waters album (Rebel).
2006, released Pretty Green Hills album (Rebel).
2008, released The Best of the Vetco Years album (Rebel).
2011, underwent a quintuple bypass surgery on his heart. Reports are that he died (flatlined) on the table but survived the operation.
2013, a documentary film was released about his life titled “Last of the Breed: The Dave Evans Story.”
2017, died at the age of 66.

Evans, Gerald (and Paradise)

Posted on November 20, 2013February 4, 2015 by WR

GERALD EVANS AND PARADISE

From Cincinnati, Ohio.
Before forming Paradise, Evans played fiddle and mandolin with the Traditional Grass, Dave Evans and Riverbend, and the Goins Brothers.
1995, Evans released an album with Joe Mullins called Just A Five String & Fiddle (Rebel Records).
2001, released first album “Gettin’ It Done” on Legend Records.
2003, released “Headin’ Home” album on Lavenir Records.
2007, released “Gerald Evans and Paradise” album (no label).

Everhart, Bob

Posted on September 1, 2021 by WR

BOB EVERHART

From Anita, Iowa.
A multi-instrumentalist and singer, best-known as the founder and president of the National Traditional Country Music Association (NTCMA).
1975, he founded the NTCMA.
His primary instrument was the 12-string guitar and he performed all over the US and toured Europe several times. He recorded eleven albums during his career.
For seven years, h produced, hosted, and performed on the PBS national television show Old Time Country Music, and produced and performed on Bus Stop, a local TV show.
He won a Lifetime Achievement Award from World Music Events; the Kitty Wells/Johnny Wright Leadership in Country Music Award; the Tennessee Ambassador of Goodwill from the Governor of Tennessee; and the Entertainer of the Year Award in Cologne, Germany.
2021, died at the age of 85.

Ewing, Tom

Posted on November 20, 2013September 28, 2023 by WR

TOM EWING

From Columbus, Ohio. Lives in Gallatin, Tennessee.
Was the final lead singer and guitarist with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys (from 1986-1988 and also 1989-1996). He appeared on Monroe’s last three albums including Southern Flavor which won a Grammy.
Attended Ohio State University; earned degrees in journalism and education.
Former member of Earl Taylor’s Stoney Mountain Boys (Cincinnati).
1978-1986, hosted the “Bluegrass Ramble” radio show in Columbus, Ohio (which is still on the air as of 2018, although with different hosts).
Has recorded three solo projects (1988, 1989, 1993).
1994, began writing a column for Bluegrass Unlimited magazine (“Thirty Years Ago This Month”).
1994, married Gwen McReynolds, daughter of Jesse McReynolds (Jim and Jesse).
1996, after Bill Monroe’s death, joined David Davis and the Warrior River Boys. Also played bass for Jim and Jesse.
2000, compiled and edited The Bill Monroe Reader (University of Illinois Press.)
2003, formed two bands: Monroe’s Boys and Blue Grass Boys Reunion with other former members of Monroe’s band (Bob Black and Mark Hembree).
2023, received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the IBMA for his contributions to bluegrass music.

Expedition Show, The

Posted on November 20, 2013March 23, 2015 by WR

THE EXPEDITION SHOW

From Nashville.
Formed in 2002 by banjo player Blake Williams and mandolin player Bobby Clark as The Williams and Clark Expedition. Also in the group: Wayne Southards (guitar) and Kimberly Williams (bass). Blake and Kimberly Williams are married.
Williams and Clark previously worked together as members of the Mike Snider band. Southards is a former member of the Tennessee Gentlemen. Southards is from Salem, Missouri (also hometown of the Dillards).
Original name: New Ground. Changed after first album was released because the name was already in use by a gospel group.
2003, 2004, were nominated for IBMA’s Emerging Artist of the Year award.
2009, Bobby Clark departed and the group was re-named The Expedition Show.
2011, released The Expedition Show album (Mountain Fever).
2013, released Stormy Horizons album (Mountain Fever).

Dead South, The

Posted on January 22, 2018October 2, 2019 by WR

THE DEAD SOUTH

From Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Formed in 2012 by Nate Hilts (guitar), Scott Pringle (mandolin), Danny Kenyon (cello) and Colton Crawford (banjo).
They blend bluegrass with folk, rock and punk influences. Their signature dress is “hillbilly-pioneer.”
2015, released Good Company album (Curve Music). The video from this album “In Hell I’ll be in Good Company” went viral on YouTube.
2016, Crawford (banjo) left the band and was replaced by Eliza Mary Doyle.
2016, released Illusion & Doubt album (Curve Music).
2018, won a Juno Award for their album Illusion & Doubt.
2019, released Sugar and Joy album (Six-Shooter).

Deadly Gentlemen, The

Posted on November 18, 2013July 27, 2015 by WR

THE DEADLY GENTLEMEN

From Boston, Massachusetts.
Became a full-time band in 2011.
Members: Greg Liszt (banjo), Mike Barnett (fiddle), Sam Grisman (bass), Dominick Leslie (mandolin), Stash (Stanislaw) Wyslouch (guitar).
Banjo player Liszt attended Yale and earned a Ph.D from M.I.T. in Molecular Biology. He was a member of Bruce Springsteen’s live band for his “Seeger Sessions” tour. He is also a member of Crooked Still.
Barnett played fiddle with Jesse McReynolds at age 15. Later worked with the David Grisman Quintet and the Tony Trischka Band.
Grisman is the son of mandolin legend David Grisman.
Wyslouch came from a heavy metal music background.
They also produce an online bluegrass humor magazine called The Bluegrass Intelligencer.
2013, released first album Roll Me, Tumble Me for Rounder Records. Their previous albums (no label) were titled “The Bastard Masterpiece” and “Carry Me to Home.”
2013, bass player Sam Grisman was replaced by Adam Chaffins. Grisman moved to Nashville to pursue other musical interests.
2014, Sean Trischka (son of Tony) joined the band playing drums. Eli Bishop joined the group on fiddle.
2015, broke up with band members departing amicably for other endeavors. Banjo player Liszt performs with Crooked Still and teaches at the Berklee College of Music. Wyslouch released a solo project and performs with other bands in the New England area.

Deaton, Honi

Posted on November 18, 2013January 29, 2015 by WR

HONI DEATON (AND DREAM)

From Suwannee, Georgia. Originally from Irving, Texas.
While in high school, she had a group called Soul and Country. Also DJ’d at a local country music station.
1992-2001, played bass and sang lead with Idaho-based band The Grasshoppers.
2001, married Jeff Deaton, son of Ray Deaton (Third Tyme Out). Jeff formerly worked with Lou Reid and Carolina, Junior Sisk and Rambler’s Choice.
2002, formed Honi Deaton and Dream with husband Jeff (guitar), Kristin Scott Benson (banjo), Dewey Brown (fiddle), and Chris Davis (mandolin).
2008, released The Other Side album (C&L Entertainment).
2009, released Gospel Collection album (C&L Entertainment).
2009, released Chasing Dreams album (Lamon Records).

Deeper Shade of Blue

Posted on June 5, 2018December 16, 2022 by WR

DEEPER SHADE OF BLUE

From Charlotte, North Carolina.
Formed in 2000 by Jim Fraley (banjo), Jason Fraley (mandolin) and Brian Hinson (bass). Jim and Jason Fraley are father and son. Other members of the band are Troy Pope (guitar) and Frank Poindexter (Dobro™). Jim and Jason Fraley are father and son.
Poindexter is the uncle of the Rice Brothers (Tony, Larry and Wyatt) and has recorded with them on several occasions.
Jim Fraley had previously worked with Mac Wiseman, Clyde Moody and Chubby Wise as well as several regional bands in North Carolina.
2015, Hinson (bass) left the band and was replaced by Scott Burgess.
2018, released Steam album (Mountain Fever).
2020, Jim Fraley (banjo) retired from the band and was replaced by Steve Wilson.
2022, Jason Fraley (mandolin) also retired from the band and was replaced by Milom Williams.

Deer Creek Boys

Posted on June 13, 2016July 18, 2023 by WR

DEER CREEK BOYS

From Amherst, Virginia.
Formed in 1999 by brothers Justin Tomlin (guitar) and Jason “Tater” Tomlin (bass) and their childhood friend Cason Ogden (mandolin). They began playing together when they were in grade school.
2015, after a long hiatus, the band re-formed with the addition of Andy Lowe (banjo).
Justin Tomlin (guitar) also played guitar with Nothin’ Fancy.
Jason Tomlin (bass) spent five years with Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice.
2016, released What Goes Up album (Mountain Fever).
2017, released Midnight & Dawn album (Mountain Fever).
2019, released Chaos Theory album (Mountain Fever).

Dehlia Low

Posted on November 18, 2013June 22, 2015 by WR

DEHLIA LOW

From Asheville, North Carolina
Formed in 2007 by Anya Hinkle (fiddle), Stacy Claude (guitar), Aaron Ballance (Dobro), Bryan Clendenin (mandolin) and Greg Stiglets (bass).
They play a blend of bluegrass with old-time folk music.
2008, released first album Dehlia Low (no label).
2009, released Tellico album (no label).
2010, released Live album (no label).
2011, released Ravens & Crows album (Rebel), produced by Travis Book of the Infamous Stringdusters.

Delaney, Mark

Posted on November 18, 2013September 12, 2021 by WR

MARK DELANEY

From the Washington DC area.
1980, began playing banjo at age 11; learned from his Kentucky-born grandfather.
Performed for many years with Arnold Hobbs and Partners in Centreville, VA.
Day job: he’s a BMW motorcycle mechanic.
Has also worked & recorded with Jim Eanes, Frank Wakefield, Buzz Busby, Charlie Waller, Norman Wright, Darren Beachley and Mike Auldridge.
2006, joined Randy Waller and the Country Gentlemen.
2008, joined Wayne Taylor and Appaloosa.
2009, released first solo project SideCar (Patuxent Records). “Sidecar” is his nickname.
2011, joined Danny Paisley and the Southern Grass.

Della Mae

Posted on November 18, 2013August 11, 2021 by WR

DELLA MAE

- From Boston, Massachusetts.
- An all-female band featuring Celia Woodsmith (guitar, lead vocals), Kimber Ludiker (fiddle), Jenni Lyn Gardner (mandolin), Amanda Kowalski (bass), Courtney Hartman (guitar).
- Kimber Ludiker won the 2009 National Fiddle Championship.
- 2011, released first album I Built This Heart (no label) with guests including Alison Brown, Laurie Lewis and Bethany Haas.
- 2012, bassist Kowalski left the group and was replaced by Shelby Means, from Wyoming.
- 2013, released This World Oft Can Be album (Rounder Records), produced by Bryan Sutton.
- 2013, won the IBMA award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
- 2013, 2014, participated in the U.S. State Department’s American Music Abroad program. They toured Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, where they collaborated with local musicians, taught educational programs for children, and played concerts for local audiences.
- 2014, bassist Shelby Means left the group. She was replaced by Zoe Guigueno (formerly with Joy Kills Sorrow).
- 2015, mandolinist Jenni Lyn Gardner formed Jenni Lyn Gardner and the Palmetto Bluegrass Band as a side project when she is not working with Della Mae.
- 2015, released self-titled album Della Mae (Rounder)
- 2019, released The Butcher Shoppe EP (Rounder).
- 2019, performed with Steve Martin and Martin Short on their comedy tour.
- 2021, released Family Reunion album (no label). Lineup: Woodsmith (guitar), Ludiker (fiddle), Avril Smith (guitar), Maddie Witler (mandolin), Vickie Vaughn (bass).

Delta Reign

Posted on April 17, 2015October 2, 2019 by WR

DELTA REIGN

From Mobile, Alabama.
Formed in 2004 by husband and wife Pat and Benita Murphy (banjo and guitar, respectively). Other band members: George Mason (fiddle) and Joshua Faul (bass).
Fiddle player George Mason spent time in Branson as musical director for the Osmonds and also performs with the Lawrence Welk Orchestra.
2010, released Home album (no label).
2012, released Calm Before The Storm album (Mountain Fever).
2015, released Nothing But Sky album (Mountain Fever).
2019, band leader Pat Murphy died at the age of 67.

DeMent, Iris

Posted on November 18, 2013 by WR

IRIS DEMENT

Born in Paragould, Arkansas. Grew up in Southern California. Lives in Kansas City, Missouri.
Youngest of 14 children.
Her family was deeply religious. Her older sisters had a gospel group called “The DeMent Sisters.”
Her father was a fiddler.
Didn’t begin playing guitar, writing songs and performing until age 25 (while in Kansas).
2001, acted and sang in the movie “Songcatcher.”
2001, appeared on Ralph Stanley’s “Clinch Mountain Sweethearts” album.
2002, appeared on the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Vol. III” album.

Denton, Maddie

Posted on November 24, 2021 by WR

MADDIE DENTON

From Murfreesboro, Tennessee
She began playing the fiddle at age 5.
She is a member of several bands including the Dan Tyminski Band, East Nash Grass and the Theo & Brenna Band.
2009, won the National Junior Fiddle Championship.
2016, won the Grand Master Fiddle Championship, the first Tennessee-born fiddler to do so.
She is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in Organismal Biology and Ecology. While at MTSU, she played on the school’s golf team for four years and helped the Lady Raiders win back-to-back Conference USA Championships. She also teaches biology and environmental science at Siegel High School in Murfreesboro and is assistant golf coach.
2021, released solo album Playin’ In This Town (no label).

Detour

Posted on November 18, 2013June 17, 2020 by WR

DETOUR

From Michigan.
Features the lead singing of Missy Armstrong (guitar) with Peter Knupfer (fiddle), Scott Zylstra (guitar), Jeff Rose (mandolin), Jeremy Darrow (bass) and Lloyd Douglas (banjo).
2009, released “The Road That Lies Ahead” (BlueGrass Ahead).
2012, released A Better Place album (BlueGrass Ahead).
2014, released Going Nowhere Fast album (Mountain Fever Records).
2015, Jack Bunce replaced Jeremy Darrow, playing bass. Darrow joined Front Country.

Dick-Olds, Bethany

Posted on November 18, 2013October 23, 2016 by WR

BETHANY DICK (BETHANY DICK-OLDS)

From Belgrade, Montana. Lives in Nashville.
A singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist specializing in bluegrass, country and contemporary Christian music.
Began playing fiddle at age 14.
1997, won the Junior National Fiddling Championship.
1997, 1998, won the Montana Open Fiddle Championships (1997).
2000, released first album “The Beat of My Heart.”
2001, won the MerleFest gospel songwriting competition for her song “Come The Morning.”
2002, moved to Nashville and worked with Sara Evans and Pam Tillis (playing fiddle, mandolin and guitar).
2002, released “This Beautiful Life” album (no label) co-produced with Bryan Sutton.
2006, moved to Atlanta.
2007, toured with Mac Powell of the Christian rock band Third Day.

Dick, Bob

Posted on November 18, 2013 by WR

BOB DICK

From Waterbury, Connecticut. Lives in Massachusetts.
At age 15, played bass with the Greater Boston Youth Symphony.
1987, attended Berklee College of Music to study jazz.
Former bands: Billings Gap, Rabbit in a Log, Slo-Grass.
1992, joined Front Range as bass player.
1993, joined a central Massachusetts band called SloGrass. He continues to play bass with this band.
2000, formed The Blackstone Valley Bluegrass Band (with his brother Dave, formerly with Southern Rail and Salamander Crossing). Bob plays guitar in this band.
2000, released solo project of Christmas songs, singing and playing all the instruments on the album.

Dickens, Hazel

Posted on November 18, 2013September 26, 2018 by WR

HAZEL DICKENS

From Mercer County, West Virginia. For many years lived in Georgetown, Washington D.C.
Daughter of a Primitive Baptist preacher who hauled timber for the coal mines.
Best known for singing and writing songs about coal mines, working-class people and women’s rights.
Recorded both as a soloist and also as a duo with Alice Gerrard.
Her songs have been recorded by Emmylou Harris (“Hello Stranger,” “The Sweetest Gift, A Mother’s Smile”), New Riders of the Purple Sage (“Don’t Put Her Down, You Helped Put Her There”) and other artists.
Several of her songs were used in the soundtrack to the Academy Award-winning documentary film, “Harlan County, USA.”
Has performed at some of the nation’s most impressive venues: the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City, Carnegie Hall, the Grand Ole Opry and the White House.
A social activist who continues to organize and perform at benefits for coal miners, labor unions, welfare rights groups and women’s organizations.
1998, received an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree from Shepherd College, Shepherdstown, WV.
2007, was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.
Died April 22, 2011.
2017, she (along with Alice Gerrard) was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED:

Hard Hitting Songs For Hard Hit People (Rounder, 2009)
A Few Old Memories (Rounder, 1990)
It’s Hard to Tell the Singer From the Song (Rounder, 1987)

Diffie, Joe

Posted on November 18, 2013March 29, 2020 by WR

JOE DIFFIE

From Tulsa, Oklahoma
Began his career in the late seventies with an Oklahoma bluegrass band called The Special Edition, which also included Billy Joe Foster.
1990, signed with Epic Records and for a decade had more than 35 songs on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, including five Number One singles: “Home”, “If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets)”, “Third Rock from the Sun”, “Pickup Man” and “Bigger Than the Beatles”.
1993, co-hosted the IBMA Awards Show.
1998, appeared on the IBMA Awards Show with the Lonesome River Band.
2010, released Homecoming: The Bluegrass Album (Rounder Records).
2020, died at the age of 61 due to complications from coronavirus (COVID-19).

Dillard and Clark Expedition, The

Posted on November 18, 2013January 31, 2015 by WR

THE DILLARD AND CLARK EXPEDITION

A short-lived group (1968-1970) featuring Doug Dillard, formerly of the Dillards, and guitarist Gene Clark, formerly of the Byrds.
One of the first bands to mix bluegrass and country-rock.
Recorded two albums for A&M Records: Fantastic Expedition of Dillard & Clark and Through the Morning Through the Night.
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Dillard, Doug

Posted on November 18, 2013August 21, 2023 by WR

DOUG DILLARD (DOUG DILLARD BAND)

From Salem, Missouri. Lived in Los Angeles and Nashville during most of his career.
Full name: Douglas Flint Dillard. He was an original member of the Dillards (1962-1968) and was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame as a member of that group (2009).
Before becoming a professional musician, he was an accountant.
Played the part of “Jebbin Darling” on the Andy Griffith TV show.
1968-1970, worked with former Byrd Gene Clark in the Dillard and Clark Expedition.
1971, released solo album The Banjo Album (Together).
1972-1973, was a regular on the NBC-TV series “Music Country U.S.A.”
1973, released Duelin’ Banjo album (20th Century).
1974, released “You Don’t Need a Reason to Sing” album (20th Century).
As a sideman, he appeared on albums by Arlo Guthrie, the Monkees, the Beach Boys and Glen Campbell.
1979, formed the Doug Dillard band with various members including Byron Berline, Ginger Boatwright, Kathy Chiavola and David Grier.
1980, released JackRabbit album (Flying Fish).
1980, appeared in the movie “Popeye” starring Robin Williams. While filming that picture, he fell from a cliff and suffered serious injuries which came very close to ending his life, not to mention his career as a musician.
1986, released “What’s That?” album (Flying Fish).
1989, released Heartbreak Hotel album (Flying Fish).
1992, made a cameo appearance in Tanya Tucker’s video “Some Kind of Trouble” in 1992.
1994-2000, did a number of “Original Dillards” reunion shows.
2004, began performing with brother Rodney as the Dillards (with various sidemen to fill out the band).
2009, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame (with The Dillards).
2012, died at the age of 75.

Full Cord

Posted on November 5, 2021February 14, 2024 by WR

FULL CORD

From Grand Haven, Michigan.
Formed in 2008 by Eric Langejans (guitar) and Todd Kirchner (bass). Other members: Grant Flick (fiddle), Brian Oberlin (mandolin) and Lloyd Douglas (banjo). Douglas formerly played with David Davis and the Warrior River Boys as well as Jim & Jesse and the Virginia Boys. Douglas retired from the band in 2021 and was replaced for a short time by Gabe Hirschfield (formerly with the Lonely Heartstrings Band). Ricky Mier took over the banjo spot in 2022.
Their name comes from a comment made at one of their first gigs. After seeing their instruments (bass, fiddle, mandolin, guitar) piled in the corner of the bar, someone said, “Looks like a full cord of wood sitting there.”
2019, released Choreomania album (no label).
2021, released Hindsight album (no label).
2022, they won first place at the 49th annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Contest.
2022, they won the IBMA Momentum Award for band of the year.
2023, released Cambium album (Dark Shadow).

Dillards, The

Posted on November 18, 2013August 10, 2020 by WR

THE DILLARDS

From Salem, Missouri although for most of their career together as a band they lived in Los Angeles, California.
Rodney Dillard (guitar) and Doug Dillard (banjo) began performing together as The Dillard Brothers in 1958. Their original band included John Hartford on fiddle.
1962, formed The Dillards with Mitch Jayne (bass) and Dean Webb (mandolin). This configuration of the band was together for six years and is considered the “original” Dillards.
1962, decided to try their luck in California. After arriving in Los Angeles (November, 1962) they performed at the famous folk club The Ash Grove. This led to their record deal with Elektra Records and an appearance of several episodes of the Andy Griffith Show playing a family of slow-witted hillbillies called The Darlin’ Family.
1963, recorded the first of three classic albums: “Backporch Bluegrass,” “Live … Almost,” and “Pickin’ and Fiddlin” with Byron Berline on fiddle (Elektra).
1963, recorded an album under the name The Folkswingers titled “12 String Guitar!” (World Pacific) with Glen Campbell playing 12-string guitar.
1964, appeared on the Judy Garland TV Show
They are considered one of the most influential bluegrass bands of the 1960’s, especially on the west coast. Among those who have credited the Dillards with many of their musical ideas: the late Gram Parsons, Chris Hillman (The Byrds and the Desert Rose Band), Byron Berline, Bernie Leadon (The Eagles), John McEuen (The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band), John Hartford, Steve Martin, Sam Bush, many others.
They were the first (and perhaps only) bluegrass band to incorporate stand-up comedy into its act, featuring storyteller Mitch Jayne, along with the unpredictable antics of Rodney Dillard, who was the butt of most of Mitch’s jokes.
1966-67, toured with the Byrds which led to Doug Dillard’s departure to form a new band with The Byrds’ Gene Clark called The Dillard and Clark Expedition.
1968, Doug Dillard was replaced by Herb Pederson and it was during this period that the Dillards recorded two landmark albums, “Wheatstraw Suite” and “Copperfields.” The group also added drummer Paul York.
1972, toured with Elton John.
After Herb Pederson left the Dillards in 1972 (he was replaced by Billy Ray Latham), the group went through several personnel changes, including the retirement of Mitch Jayne (he was replaced by Jeff Gilkinson). The group eventually folded and during most of the 80’s, Rodney and Dean worked together at Silver Dollar City, a theme park in Branson, Missouri.
Following a reunion tour in 1989, they attempted a comeback with Steve Cooley on banjo, recording two new albums for Vanguard Records.
1999, drummer Paul York died at the age of 58.
2002, the original band made an appearance at Carnegie Hall with Arlo Guthrie and Pete Seeger.
2006, John McEuen produced a documentary video about the original Dillards called “A Night in the Ozarks.”
2007, Mitch Jayne published his first novel “Fiddler’s Ghost.”
2009, The Dillards were inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. All four of the original band were present to receive the honor at the IBMA Awards Show in Nashville.
2009, Dean formed a new band called Missouri Boat Ride (named after a line in the movie “The Outlaw Josie Wales.”)
2010, Rodney began touring and recording as Rodney Dillard and the Dillard Band. Released I Wish Life Was Like Mayberry album (Rural Rhythm).
2010, Mitch Jayne died at the age of 80.
2012, Doug Dillard died at the age of 75.
2018, Dean Webb died at the age of 81.
2019, Rodney and wife Beverly Cotton began performing and recording as The Dillards with supporting musicians George Giddens (fiddle/mandolin), Cory Walker/Tony Wray (banjo) and Gary Smith (bass).
2020, released Old Road New Again album (Pinecastle) with guests Don Henley, Herb Pedersen, Bernie Leadon, Sam Bush, Ricky Skaggs, and Sharon and Cheryl White.

RECOMMENDED:

There is a Time 1963-70 (Vanguard)

Dillman, Derek

Posted on November 18, 2013 by WR

DEREK DILLMAN

From Peru, Indiana.
Began playing the banjo at age 4.
1998, released first album at age 15.
2000, joined Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys. He was the last banjo player to work with Jimmy Martin.
2005, joined an Indiana band called Branded Bluegrass.

Dirty River Ramblers, The

Posted on January 6, 2014February 3, 2015 by WR

THE DIRTY RIVER RAMBLERS

From Omaha, Nebraska.
They are a genre-bending band, playing “from oldtime to jam-rock.”
Members: Josh Krohn (fiddle/banjo), Kustin Kephart (mandolin), Mace Hathaway (guitar) and Chris Hunke (bass).
2013, released Ramble On album (no label).

Dismembered Tennesseans, The

Posted on November 18, 2013 by WR

THE DISMEMBERED TENNESSEANS

From Chattanooga, Tennessee.
A group that formed in 1945 by fiddler Fletcher Bright and other students from the McCallie Private Boys School in Chattanooga. They have appeared on ABC-TV’s Peter Jennings Nightly News and were featured on the NBC Sunday Today Show.
2012, still performing together after 65 years.

Dixie Bee-Liners, The

Posted on November 18, 2013February 3, 2015 by WR

THE DIXIE BEE-LINERS

From Southwest Virginia
Features singer/songwriter Brandi Hart, a Kentucky native who began singing in church at age 2.
Also features guitarist Buddy Woodward, formerly an alt-country performer who worked with “The Ghost Rockets” and “Buddy Woodward and the Nitro Express.” Also has worked with Steve Earle, Jim Lauderdale, Rosie Flores, John Starling, others.
Other band members: Rachel Renee Johnson (fiddle), Jeremy Darrow (mandollin) and Sam Morrow (banjo).
Their music has been featured on cable TV’s Food Network and on the soundtrack to the Civil War film “Freedom.”
2006, released Dixie Bee-Liners album (no label).
2008, released Ripe (Pinecastle Records), produced by Bil VornDick.
2008, received Roots Music Association Award for “Bluegrass Artist of the Year.”
2009, released Susanville album (Pinecastle).
2014, disbanded.
2015, released “Through My Screen Door: The Final Sessions of the Dixie Bee Liners” album.

Dixie Chicks, The

Posted on November 18, 2013February 3, 2015 by WR

THE DIXIE CHICKS

From Dallas, Texas.
1989, original group debuted on a street corner in Dallas. At the time the group included Laura Lynch (bass), Robin Lynn Macy (guitar), Martie Maguire (fiddle) and Emily Robison (banjo/Dobro™) Martie and Emily are sisters.
They took their name from the song “Dixie Chicken” by Lowell George of the band Little Feat.
1990, won first place in the bluegrass band competition at Telluride.
1998, with Natalie Maines as their lead singer, they burst onto the country music scene with several hit records, winning two CMA awards, three ACM awards and two Grammies that year.
They were called “The Spice Girls of Country.”
1998, won CMA Horizon Award
1998, 1999, 2000 won CMA award for Vocal Group of the Year.
1998, 1999, won Grammy Award for Best Country Album.
1998, 1999, won Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group.
1998, 1999, won ACM awards for Top Vocal Duet or Group, Country Album of the Year.
1999, 2000, won CMA award for Best Music Video.
2000, won CMA award for Album of the Year.
2000, won CMA award for Entertainer of the Year.
2002, released Home album, a return to their bluegrass roots. It debuted on the Billboard charts at #1.
2003, stirred up controversy and outrage among country music fans when Natalie Maines criticized President George Bush’s decision to invade Iraq at a concert in London.
2007, won five more Grammy awards (for a total of 13) for album “Taking the Long Way” (including Album of the Year.)
2008, fiddler Martie Maguire returned to the studio to record a fiddle-based solo album.

Dixie Gentlemen, The

Posted on November 18, 2013September 10, 2022 by WR

THE DIXIE GENTLEMEN

From Alabama.
Formed in 1956 as the Country Gentlemen but changed their name when they learned that another band had that name.
Featured Jake Landers (guitar), Rual Yarbrough (banjo) and Herschel Sizemore (mandolin). Vassar Clements also played fiddle with this group for a short time.
The were one of the few bluegrass bands of the period to record for a major record label. In 1963, they released their signature recording The Country Style of the Dixie Gentlemen (United Artists).
1963, they also recorded two albums for Time Records under the name The Blue Ridge Mountain Boys: “Hootenanny N Bluegrass” and “Blue Grass Back Home.”
Jake Landers wrote several songs that became classics, such as “Walk Softly on This Heart of Mine” and “This Is the Girl I Love.” He is a former member of Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys. Until his death, he continued to play with his own band in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Herschel Sizemore also worked with Del McCoury, The Shenandoah Cut-Ups and the Bluegrass Cardinals. He also led his own band and was featured in a documentary film about his life titled Mandolin in B.
Rual Yarbrough also worked with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys in the 1970’s.
2010, Yarbrough died at the age of 80.
2018, Landers died at the age of 79.
2022, Sizemore died at the age of 87.

Doerfels, The

Posted on November 18, 2013April 1, 2024 by WR

THE DOERFELS

From Buffalo, New York.
A family band whose members are: TJ (banjo), Kim (fiddle), Eddy (mandolin), Ben (guitar), and Joe (bass). They range in age (2009) from 13 to 20. They have younger siblings who also are learning to play.
2009, released first album and video What I’m Looking For (Patuxent).

Douglas, Jerry

Posted on November 18, 2013October 29, 2024 by WR

JERRY DOUGLAS

From Warren, Ohio. Lives in Nashville.
Nickname: “Flux”, which means “to become fluid” (Websters).
Grew up in a musical family; his father played guitar in a bluegrass band called the West Virginia Travelers.
At age 8, went to a Flatt and Scruggs concert and saw Dobro™ player Josh Graves for the first time. It was then that he knew he wanted to play a Dobro™.
Was a track star in high school.
Age 15, joined the The West Virginia Travelers (with his father) and later that year was offered a job with the Country Gentlemen. He declined to finish his education, but made a few guest appearances with them briefly during the summer of 1973 and met Ricky Skaggs who became one of his best friends.
1974, joined the Country Gentlemen.
1975, joined J.D. Crowe’s band, The New South, with friend Ricky Skaggs.
1977, formed Boone Creek with Ricky Skaggs, disbanding when Ricky Skaggs went to work for Emmy Lou Harris the following year.
1978, rejoined the Country Gentlemen.
1979, released first solo project Fluxology (Rounder).
1980, joined The Whites.
1982, released Fluxedo album (Rounder).
1986, left The Whites to spend more time at home with his wife, Jill.
1992, released album Slide Rule (Rounder), which won IBMA award for Recorded Event of the Year.
1994, album Skip Hop & Wobble (with Russ Barenberg and Edgar Meyer) won IBMA Award for “Instrumental Recording of the Year.”
1995, album The Great Dobro Sessions (produced by Douglas) won IBMA Awards for “Recorded Event of the Year” and “Instrumental Album of the Year.”
1998, joined Alison Krauss and Union Station (replaced Adam Steffey) while continuing to perform with his own band and pursue other musical opportunities (recording, producing, etc.)
1998, won Dobro™ player of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
2000, appeared in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou”.
2002, won CMA and Americana awards for Instrumentalist of the Year.
Had a band called “the Brickbats.”
2005, 2007, won the CMA award for Musician of the Year
2008, released Glide album (Koch Records).
2009, released Jerry Christmas album (Koch Records).
2012, released Traveler album, recording in various locations with guests such as Eric Clapton, Paul Simon, Bela Fleck, Dr. John, Alison Krauss, Marc Cohen, Mumford and Sons and others.
2014, formed the Earls of Leicester, a band that replicates the music of Flatt and Scruggs.
2014, released an album with Mike Auldridge (his last recordings) and Rob Ickes called Three Bells (Rounder).
2015, won his 9th IBMA award for Dobro™ Player of the Year (also won in 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 2001, 2002).
2015, won an IBMA Award for Instrumental Recording of the Year (for “The Three Bells”).
2024, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.
2024, released solo album The Set (Many Hats Productions).

Dowdy Brothers, The

Posted on July 13, 2019April 25, 2020 by WR

THE DOWDY BROTHERS

From Catawba, Virginia.
Formed in 2019 by Steven Dowdy (bass) and Donald Dowdy (mandolin). Their father Victor Dowdy was one half of the Bluegrass Brothers (with their uncle Robert Dowdy). Steven and Donald performed with the Bluegrass Brothers before starting their own band.
Other band members include Tommy Conner (guitar), Mason Fisher (banjo) and Cody Bauer (fiddle).
Donald plays a left-handed mandolin.
2019, released self-titled album (Tomco).

Dreadful Snakes, The

Posted on November 18, 2013February 3, 2015 by WR

THE DREADFUL SNAKES

From Nashville.
A studio band featuring Bela Fleck (banjo), Jerry Douglas (Dobro™), Blaine Sprouse (fiddle), Roland White (mandolin), Pat Enright (guitar) and Mark Hembree (bass).
1983, they recorded one album Snakes Alive! (Rounder Records).
1984, Enright and Hembree teamed up with Alan O’Bryant to form The Nashville Bluegrass Band.

Dr. Elmo

Posted on November 18, 2013August 1, 2021 by WR

DR. ELMO

From Novato, California, near San Francisco.
1979, had a big hit with “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer,” recorded as a duet with his then-wife Patsy. It made him a millionaire several times over.
Real name: Dr. Elmo Shropshire.
He is a veterinarian, hence the “Dr.” He was born in Lexington, Kentucky and tended racehorses for several years. He moved to San Francisco and opened an animal hospital. He is also a competitive distance runner.
Plays the banjo and has recorded several albums with his bluegrass band, Wild Blue.
2010, released Dr. Elmo: Bluegrass Christmas album (Time-Life Entertainment).

Driessen, Casey

Posted on November 18, 2013November 18, 2013 by WR

CASEY DRIESSEN

From Chicago, Illinois.
Started playing fiddle at age 6.
Attended Berklee College of Music; taught by Matt Glaser.
1999, toured with Steve Earle and the Bluegrass Dukes.
2000, moved to Nashville. Has worked there with Tim O’Brien, Abigail Washburn, Darrell Scott, Béla Fleck, Jim Lauderdale, Lee Ann Womack, Mark Schatz, others.
2004, played on the soundtrack to the movie “Walk the Line” (about Johnny Cash).
Has a band of his own called the Colorfools.

Driven

Posted on October 22, 2014November 11, 2015 by WR

DRIVEN

From Kansas and Utah.
Formed in 2010 by Jimmy Campbell (banjo/Dobro™), Blake McLemore (bass), Brandon McLemore (mandolin), Jake Workman (guitar) and Rebekah Workman (fiddle).
Brandon and Blake McLemore are identical twins from Kansas. They originally played in their family band “The McLemores” (1997-2007) and also played with a band called Grassfire. They also play in a cowboy/western swing band called Marshall Allen Bailey & The Silver Bullets.
Jake and Rebekah Workman are married and live in the Salt Lake City, Utah area. (In 2015, Jake replaced Cody Kilby as guitarist with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder).
2012, released “Driven,” their first album.
2013, released You’ll Be Lonely, I’ll Be Gone album on their own label.

Droze, Billy

Posted on July 9, 2016January 22, 2024 by WR

BILLY DROZE

From LaFayette, Louisiana. Grew up in Alabama. Currently lives in Nashville.
He is the 10th of 12 children, son of country singer Bob “Red” Droze (who recorded for Rural Rhythm Records in the 1960’s).
Began playing guitar at age 12 and performed with his father’s band during his teen years.
A prolific songwriter, he has written songs recorded by The Grascals, Flatt Lonesome, Junior Sisk, Marty Raybon, Daryl Worley and Jamie O’Neal.
As a country artist, he performed and recorded as Billy Ryan. For a time he also filled in as lead singer with the country group Shenandoah.
His wife is singer Marija Droze, a singer he met in 2009 at a bluegrass festival in Europe.
2012, released Sinnin’ Man album (no label)
2013, released Ambassador album (Carmen Road).
2017, released To Whom It May Concern album (Rural Rhythm).
2019, released Renaissance album (RBR Entertainment).
2021, released Waiting Out the Storm album (RBR Entertainment).
2023, released Billy the Kid album (RBR Entertainment).

Droze, Marija

Posted on August 19, 2020November 8, 2022 by WR

MARIJA DROZE

From Lithuania. Lives in Nashville.
Her name is pronounced MAR-EE-A (the “j” is silent).
2009, met singer Billy Droze at a music festival in eastern Europe. She was singing in a Lithuanian bluegrass band at the time. They later married and she emigrated to the United States.
2022, released first solo album “Maria with a J” (RBR Entertainment)

Druha Trava

Posted on November 18, 2013February 3, 2015 by WR

DRUHA TRAVA

From the Czech Republic (formerly Czechoslavakia).
Formed in 1991 by singer/songwriter Robert Krestan and banjo player Lubos Malina.
Krestan and banjo player Lubos Malina were formerly in a popular Czech band called Poutnici.
Druha Trava means “second grass.” The name originally had nothing to do with bluegrass. This was Krestan and Malina’s second band, so they chose a name which meant “second harvest.” But it actually means “second grass.”
They call their music “Czechgrass.”
1998, recorded an album with Peter Rowan; signed with Compass Records.
1999, released Czechmate album (Compass Records) and won the Czech Music Academy Award (equivalent to our Grammy) for Band of the Year.
2001, released New Freedom Bell album with Peter Rowan (Compass).
2006, released Good Morning Friend album (Compass).
2011, toured with harmonica legend Charlie McCoy.

Dry Branch Fire Squad, The

Posted on November 17, 2013February 3, 2015 by WR

THE DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD

From Springfield, Ohio.
Formed in 1976 by mandolinist Ron Thomason.
The band is known for playing a raw style of mountain music along with Thomason’s self-deprecating hillbilly humor.
They are the host band for the annual “Grey Fox” Bluegrass Festival in New York.
Thomason’s first pro job: 1971, with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. (Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley were also members of that group.)
Bandleader Thomason was an English teacher and assistant principal at a junior high school near his home (retired in 1999). He is a prolific writer and story teller. He has also raised and trained Arabian horses. Retired to live in Colorado (near Pike’s Peak). He is an avid hiker and rock climber.
They recorded 16 albums for Rounder Records including Thirtieth Anniversary Special (2007).
2014, released Don’t Forget This Song and Gospel Way albums (no label).

Ducktown Station

Posted on October 23, 2013November 20, 2020 by LJ

DUCKTOWN STATION

From Ducktown, Tennessee.
Formed in 2003 under the name Ducktown Station.
Their music is described as “Cosmic Rockin’ Boogie Grass.”
Their original music has been featured on NBC Sports, PBS “Roadtrip Nation” , FOX Sports, Versus Television, and several movie soundtracks.
Members include Lisa Jacobi (fiddle, mandolin, flat-pick guitar, bass), Pete Dasher (resonator guitar), JRod (Jarrod) Payne (banjo, guitar) and Denny Mixon (bass, guitar).
2005, released first album “Tennessee Twister” produced by Harry Stinson.
2006 changed their band name to Steel String Session.
2009 released their second album “Ocoee Road” produced by Harry Stinson.
2012 at the suggestion of Sam Bush, changed band name to Playing On The Planet.
2014, released third album “Bangor Bound“produced by Lisa Jacobi and Ben Surratt.

Due West

Posted on November 17, 2013 by WR

DUE WEST

From the San Francisco area.
1992, released album “Due West.”
2003, released “These Boots” album. Band members: Bill Evans (banjo), Jim Nunally (guitar), Erik Thomas (mandolin), Chad Manning (fiddle) and Cindy Browne (bass).

Duffey, John

Posted on November 17, 2013February 3, 2015 by WR

JOHN DUFFEY

From Washington, D.C.
1957, co-founded The Country Gentlemen.
1969, quit the Country Gentlemen so that he could stay home more and pursue his passion for bowling.
1971, formed The Seldom Scene (the name indicating his desire for the band to stay home and not be “seen” on the road more than necessary.)
Besides his aggressive mandolin playing and his unique falsetto tenor voice, he was known for his outrageous stage presence, his wry sense of humor, his bad taste in clothing and his eternal flat top hairdo.
1996, inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Honor as a member of the “Classic” Country Gentlemen.
Died in 1996 at the age of 62.
2000, Sugar Hill Records released album Always in Style: A Classic Collection.

Dumas, Nick

Posted on February 1, 2023 by WR

NICK DUMAS

From Brier, Washington. Lives in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
At age 12, played fiddle in his family band The Three Generations, which included his grandfather, his mother and his aunt.
Formed his own band called Northern Departure. He also had a band called North Country Bluegrass.
2015-2019, played mandolin with the Special Consensus.
2019, released first solo project “Story of a Beautiful Life” (no label).
Performs regularly as part of the house band at The Fiddler’s Farm in Sturgeon Bay, WI.
2023, released “Details” album (Skyline Records).

Duncan, Bill

Posted on March 25, 2015 by WR

BILL DUNCAN

From Liberty, West Virginia.
1954, formed a band called the Harmony Mountain Boys. He played guitar and sang lead vocals. They worked a TV show for more than a year on WCHS in Charleston, West Virginia.
1957, 1960, worked stints with Bill Monroe, playing guitar.
1961, released an album for King Records “A Scene Near My Country Home.”
1976, played with Don Sowards and the Laurel Mountain Boys. He and Sowards were both previously in the Harmony Mountain Boys.
1980-2000, performed with his son William as the West Virginia Boys.
Died in 2013.

Duncan, Glen

Posted on November 17, 2013 by WR

GLEN DUNCAN

From Columbus, Indiana.
As a band member, he has played fiddle with The Kendalls, Larry Sparks, Bill Monroe, Jim & Jesse, The Osborne Brothers, Reba McIntyre, Garth Brooks, Lonesome Standard Time, and Mike Snider.
Session credits include albums by Reba McIntyre, Garth Brooks, Lyle Lovett, Earl Scruggs, Rodney Crowell, Shania Twain, George Strait, Vince Gill, many others.
First instrument: learned to play steel guitar at age 6.
1980, formed Glen Duncan and Phoenix.
1985, recorded solo project “Town and Country Fiddler” on Turquoise Records.
1988, recorded solo project “Sweetwater” on Turquoise Records.
1990-1995, formed Larry Cordle, Glen Duncan and Lonesome Standard Time.
1997, formed Longview with James King, Joe Mullins, Dudley Connell, Marshall Wilburn and Don Rigsby.
2000, performed with Earl Scruggs on his album, video, personal appearances.
2001, won Grammy for his performance on Earl Scrugg’s “Foggy Mountain Breakdown” (Best Country Instrumental)
2001, formed “Rock County” with Don Rigsby.
2002, featured on Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Volume 3”
2003, a member of Earl Scruggs’ “Family and Friends” tour.

Duncan, Stuart

Posted on November 17, 2013December 4, 2015 by WR

STUART DUNCAN

Grew up in Santa Paula and Vista, California (near San Diego). Lives in Nashville.
One of the top fiddle players in bluegrass music. He is also one of Nashville’s “A-list” studio musicians and has performed and recorded with hundreds of top country and popular music artists.
Age 10, played in a San Diego bluegrass band made up entirely of kids under the age of 14 called “The Pendleton Pickers.” John Moore was also a member of this group.
1980, joined Lost Highway.
1983, joined Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers.
1985-present, the Nashville Bluegrass Band.
2012, won his 8th IBMA award for Fiddle Player of the Year (also won in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 2005).
1992, released Stuart Duncan album (Rounder).
2011, participated in the Goat Rodeo Sessions with Chris Thile, Edgar Meyer and Yo Yo Ma.
2014, toured with Noam Pikelny.

Dunlap & Mabe

Posted on September 12, 2023 by WR

DUNLAP & MABE

From the Washington DC area.
Formed in 2021 by Jack Dunlap (guitar) and Robert Mabe (banjo). Other band members: Alex Kimble (bass), Mason Wright (fiddle) and Danny Knicely (mandolin).
Jack Dunlap previously worked as a solo artist, with Bud’s Collective and the Jack Dunlap Band.
Robert Mabe previously worked as a solo artist, with the Robert Mabe Band and the Jack Dunlap Band.
2021, released Stumblin’ Out the Gate (Bell Buckle).
2023, released Horses and Horsepower (Bell Buckle).

Lynn, Christie

Posted on December 2, 2013 by WR

CHRISTIE LYNN

From Samson, Alabama
1995, met Porter Wagoner at Opryland USA. He auditioned her and she sang with him until 2002.
2002, began performing southern rock with Brave New South and the Southern Rock Allstars, bands made up of former members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet and Blackfoot.
2006, recorded album “Christie Lynn sings Country-Gospel-Bluegrass” with special guests Ralph Stanley, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner. The album was produced by Wagoner.

Chatham County Line

Posted on November 10, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

CHATHAM COUNTY LINE

From Raleigh, North Carolina.
Formed in 1996 by guitarist/songwriter Dave Wilson. Other members: John Teer (fiddle/mandolin), Chandler Holt (banjo), and Greg Reading (bass and pedal steel guitar).
They began as an opening act for the Carbines.
Call themselves “new traditionalists.”
2003, released first album Chatham County Line (Bonfire).
2004, won “best new bluegrass band” contest at Rockygrass (Colorado).
2005, released Route 23 album (Yep Roc).
2006, released Speed of the Whipporwill album (Yep Roc).
2008, released IV album (Yep Roc).
2010, released Wildwood album (Yep Roc).
2014, released Tightrope album (Yep Roc).
2016, released Autumn album (Yep Roc).
2019, released Sharing the Covers album (Yep Roc).

Che Apalache

Posted on September 18, 2019October 29, 2024 by WR

CHE APALACHE

From Buenos Aires, Argentina
Band members are from Argentina, Mexico and the USA.
They call their music “latin-grass.”
Formed in 2013 by North Carolinian multi-instrumentalist Joe Troop who emigrated to Argentina in 2010. He taught bluegrass and old time music there and formed the band with Pau Barjau (banjo/from Mexico), Franco Martino (guitar/from Argentina), and Martin Bobrek (mandolin/from Argentina). Troop plays fiddle in the band.
Troop is the principal songwriter. Many of their songs are “message songs” concerning immigration, inclusiveness, etc.
2019, released Rearrange My Heart album (Free Dirt), produced by Bela Fleck.
2023, Joe Troop formed a new latin-grass band with Larry Bellorin from Monagas, Venezuela called Larry and Joe.
2024, Larry and Joe released “Manos Panamericanos” album (no label).

Cherryholmes

Posted on November 10, 2013November 1, 2016 by WR

CHERRYHOLMES

From Northeastern Arizona. Originally from Southern California (Bell, CA).
A family band: Jere (Pop) plays bass. Sandy Lee (Mom) plays mandolin. The kids: Daughters Cia Leigh (banjo) and Molly Kate (fiddle). Sons B.J. (fiddle/mandolin) and Skip (guitar.)
1999, attended a bluegrass festival in Southern California (Norco, CA) and decided to begin playing bluegrass music.
Originally called themselves “Spirit High Ridge.” They lived on a high ridge in the Arizona desert at the time.
2001, released first album “Still Rough Around the Edges” which was recorded in their home (Spirit High Ridge Music)
2002, became a full-time touring band.
2003, Molly (age 10) played fiddle on Rhonda Vincent’s album and performed with her on the Grand Ole Opry.
2003, released “Bluegrass Vagabonds” album (Spirit High Ridge Music).
2005, released Cherryholmes album (Skaggs Family).
2005, won the IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year.
2007, released Cherryholmes II Black & White album (Skaggs Family).
2008, released Cherryholmes III Don’t Believe album (Skaggs Family).
2010, released Cherryholmes IV Common Threads album (Skaggs Family).
2011, the group officially disbanded. Cia formed a new group called “Stetson and Cia” (with singer/songwriter Stetson Adkisson). Molly formed a new group called “Corporation Insania.” She has also been doing some fashion modeling. B.J joined Dailey & Vincent, playing fiddle. Skip Cherryholmes formed “The Skip Cherryholmes Quintet.”
2013, Skip joined Sideline (with Darrell Webb, Steve Dilling, Justen Haynes and Jason Moore). He also played dates with Lou Reid and Carolina.
2015, Molly joined Mountain Heart.

Chesapeake

Posted on November 10, 2013February 6, 2024 by WR

CHESAPEAKE

From the Washington, DC area.
Formed in 1993 by Mike Auldridge, Moondi Klein and T. Michael Coleman (who were all performing with the Seldom Scene at the time) and Jimmy Gaudreau (of the Tony Rice Unit). They went full-time in 1995.
They were one of the original “Americana” bands.
Disbanded in 1999. Auldridge and Gaudreau formed a new band with Richard Bennett called Auldridge, Bennett and Gaudreau.
2014, T. Michael Coleman released a new collection of live recordings by Chesapeake called “Hook, Live and Sinker.”

Chestnut Grove Quartet, The

Posted on November 10, 2013 by WR

THE CHESTNUT GROVE QUARTET

From Washington County (southwestern), Virginia.
Formed shortly after World War II at the Chestnut Grove Methodist Church.
An acapella gospel quartet (no instruments), they influenced such bluegrass artists as Ralph Stanley and Doyle Lawson. For 30 years, they had a radio show on WBBI, Abingdon, Virginia (mid 50’s to the mid 80’s).
Original members: Archie Reynolds, Jim Nunley, Gale Webb, Bill Nunley. Reynolds died in 1962 and was replaced by Ray Roe.

Chiavola, Kathy

Posted on November 11, 2013 by WR

KATHY CHIAVOLA

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Pronounced Kee-ávola
Has a master’s degree in voice from Oberlin Conservatory of Music.
As a Nashville session musician, she has sung on recording by Ricky Skaggs, Kathy Mattea, Tony Rice, Bill Monroe, John Hartford, Garth Brooks, Vince Gill, Tammy Wynette, Don Williams and Emmylou Harris and many others.
She has worked with the Doug Dillard Band, Vassar Clements, Country Gazette, Jerry Douglas and Mark O’Connor.
1991, formed the Kathy Chiavola Band which at the time included Randy Howard, Brent Truitt and Wayne Southards.
Full time job: Teaches voice at Belmont University.
1995, released bluegrass album “The Harvest.”
1998, sang with the Nashville Chamber Orchestra.
1999, was voted Outstanding Background Vocalist at the Nashville Music Awards.

Chieftains, The

Posted on November 11, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

THE CHIEFTAINS

From Dublin, Ireland.
Formed in 1963 by Paddy Maloney, an uillean piper. Went full-time in 1975.
Became Ireland’s best known performers of traditional Irish/Celtic music.
Members: Paddy Moloney, Sean Keane, Kevin Conneff, Matt Molloy, Martin Fay, Michael Tubridy, Sean Potts, Derek Bell. Bell died in 2002.
1975, won an Academy Award for the soundtrack to the movie “Barry Lyndon.” They have written and performed soundtracks for several other films as well.
They have won six Grammy Awards.
2002, released Down the Old Plank Road: The Nashville Sessions album with many bluegrass artists including Ricky Skaggs, Alison Krauss, Vince Gill, Sam Bush, Del McCoury, Nickel Creek and others.
2002, Paddy Moloney performed on the IBMA Awards show with the Del McCoury Band.
2003, released Further Down the Old Plank Road album, a follow up to their 2002 bluegrass-flavored album.
2021, Paddy Moloney died at the age of 83.

Chigger Hill Boys and Terri, The

Posted on November 11, 2013September 15, 2023 by WR

THE CHIGGER HILL BOYS AND TERRI

From Hendersonville, Tennessee (Nashville area).
Formed in 2001.
They specialize in bluegrass gospel music. Band members: Mike Richards (mandolin/guitar), Terri Argot (vocals), Ricky Gore (bass), Mark Dunham (guitar), Bobby Stangenberg (guitar) and Ethan Blair (banjo).
2003,released O Brother What Now album (Daywind).
2004, released Will Play For Pie album (Daywind)
2006, released Soul Central Railroad album (Daywind).
2008, released Hymns From Chigger Hill album (Daywind).
2010, released Oh Well album (Daywind).
2011, released Indescribable album (Daywind).
2011, Charles Lackey replaced Blair on banjo.
2019, released Songs Like Those for Days Like These album (Great Escape)
2023, released Every Good Path album (Morning Glory).

Chopped Liver Bluegrass Band

Posted on December 7, 2020December 21, 2020 by WR

CHOPPED LIVER BLUEGRASS BAND

From Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Formed in 2018 by Andrew Ivens (guitar), Adam Vrankulj (bass) and Victor Vrankulj (banjo).
2020, released first album D.B. Cooper (no label).

Chosen Road

Posted on January 27, 2019July 5, 2020 by WR

CHOSEN ROAD

From Princeton, West Virginia.
A bluegrass gospel group formed in 2009 by Jonathan Buckner (guitar). The band is sometimes billed as Jonathan Buckner and Chosen Road. Other band members include (or have included) Jonathan Campbell (bass), Zack Alvis (mandolin), Brandon Green (banjo), Chris Stackwell (Reso-guitar), Tyler Robertson (banjo), Jason Wheeler (banjo), Max Silverstein (fiddle), Brandy Miller (banjo) and others.
2011, released “Old Time Way” album (Poor Mountain).
2013, released “Expectations” album (Poor Mountain).
2014, released “Love’s Purist Light” album (Poor Mountain).
2016, released Water Grave album (Poor Mountain).

Christian Quartet, The

Posted on June 10, 2018June 10, 2018 by WR

THE CHRISTIAN QUARTET

From Ennis, North Carolina.
A gospel bluegrass band featuring three brothers: Jay (guitar), Ray (mandolin) and Alvin (bass) Shaw. Other members of the band included Cullen Galyean (banjo), Olen Harris (guitar) and Johnny Jackson (fiddle).
1983, released “He Reached Out His Hand” album (Commandment).
1984, released “Heaven is My Home” album (Blue Moon).
1985, released “Listen to Him” album (Heritage).
1986, released “Sing a Song to Jesus” album (Heritage).
1988, released “Dreams Won’t Compare” album (Heritage).
1990, released “Give Jesus All My Rewards” album (Heritage).

Christianson, Brian

Posted on November 11, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

BRIAN CHRISTIANSON

From Nashville.
A fiddle player and luthier.
2000, received his degree in String Instrument Repair, Violin Specialty from the Minnesota State Technical College in Red Wing, MN. He also received his certificate in Violin Building
2007, recorded a solo project “Brian Christianson and Friends” with Mike Snider, Tim May, Jesse Cobb, Shad Cobb, David Harvey and other musicians.
2011 opened his own shop, “The Fiddle House” in Nashville.
Is a member of Mike Snyder’s “Old Time String Band” on the Grand Ole Opry.
Has also worked with work with Ricky Skaggs, Del McCoury, Russ Barenberg, Tim O’Brien, Roland White, others.

Church, Ramona

Posted on November 11, 2013 by WR

RAMONA CHURCH

From North Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Formerly played banjo with the New Coon Creek Girls.
Won the Kentucky State Banjo Championship three years in a row.
1999-2001, performed with Carolina Road.
2001, joined Jeannette Williams and Clearwater.
2002, retired to stay home and raise her children.
2004, joined Big Country Bluegrass.
2006, joined Dale Ann Bradley’s band.

Churchmen, The

Posted on November 11, 2013February 17, 2023 by WR

THE CHURCHMEN

A gospel bluegrass band from Collinsville, Virginia.
Formed June 8, 1989 by original members Freddy Rakes (banjo), Keith Clark (guitar), Jeff Mills (bass) and F.D. Black (mandolin). First performance was at the Lynchburg (VA) Church of God of Prophecy. Later that same year, Black was replaced by Gerald Harbour on mandolin. Another early member of the band was Christian Gillikan (fiddle) who was in the band during most of the 1990’s.
2003, their album “On the Journey Home” was nominated for a Dove Award for Bluegrass Gospel Album of the Year.
2004, they purchased the Statler Brothers’ bus.
2012, Carroll Arnn (banjo) joined the band, replacing Freddy Rakes. Arnn also is a songwriter and lead singer.
2013, released their seventh album Mercy Road (Mountain Fever Records).
2014 lineup: Keith Clark (bass), Gerald Harbour (mandolin), David Guthrie (guitar) Carroll Arnn (banjo, fiddle and guitar) and Rick Keen (resonator guitar).
2015, released their eighth album Crown Of Thorns (Mountain Fever Records).
2017, released God Holds Tomorrow album (Mountain Fever).
2018, Jay Adams (guitar) joined the band. Other band members at the time: Gerald Harbour (mandolin), Carrol Arnn (banjo/guitar), Daniel Green (fiddle) and Keith Clark (bass).
2018, Harbour (mandolin) was replaced by Greg Jones.
2019, released A Mountain to Climb album (Morning Glory).
2022, Christian Gillikan (fiddle) re-joined the group.
2023, released Shadow of the Cross album (Morning Glory).

Church Sisters, The

Posted on October 27, 2015March 31, 2021 by WR

THE CHURCH SISTERS

From Galax, Virginia.
A band featuring the vocals of twin sisters Savannah and Sarah Church.
Band members include Savannah (fiddle, lead vocals), Sarah (hand-held percussion, harmony vocals), Josh Pickett (guitar), Spencer Strickland (mandolin), Jacob Eller (bass) and Ricky Grubbs (percussion).
2011, they appeared on the album Mark Twain: Words & Music (Mailboat Records), produced by Carl Jackson.
2012, released “There’s You” album (no label).
They have toured with Christian artist Brandon Heath, appeared on numerous RFD-TV shows and sang the national anthem on the nationally-televised “Food City 300” NASCAR race in Bristol, Tennessee.
2015, appeared on the album Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited, produced by Carl Jackson.
2018, released A Night at the Opry album (Valory Music).
2019, they decided to discontinue performing together. Savannah launched a solo career.
2021, Savannah appeared on the TV show “American Idol.”

Cifersky, Richard

Posted on November 16, 2013January 10, 2017 by WR

RICHARD CIFERSKÝ

From Pezinok, Slovakia (Slovak Republic).
Began playing banjo at age 15.
1998-2002, formed a band called 29 Strings.
1999, co-founded the Slovak Bluegrass Music Association and served as its president (2000-2005).
2002-2005, joined Slovoakian band Fragment.
2004, released his first solo album “New Gallop.”
2006, toured Europe with Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike.
2008, released album “Rainy Day.”
2011, recorded a concert video with The Chapmans.
2012, moved to the USA to work with Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike and other artists.
2013, released “Coming Back for More” album.
2013, formed a band called Bill Faster (in the Slovak Republic).
2014, returned to the USA to work with Kentucky’s Velvet Blue (June) and teach a workshop at Lincoln Memorial University.
2016, worked with Dale Ann Bradley’s band. Returned to the Slovak Republic later that year.

Cindy G

Posted on September 23, 2015September 26, 2024 by WR

CINDY G

From McKeesport, Pennsylvania.
A singer/songwriter who has performed rhythm and blues and rock music during the bulk of her career. Her first band was a group called the Flashcats (Pittsburgh). She also worked as a singer and songwriter in New York City.
Her last name is Giejda (pronounced “Gayda.”
2012, released her first bluegrass album Road (Blue Road). She plays mandolin and guitar on the album.
2013, won Best Bluegrass/Country Act at the Jersey Acoustic Music Awards (New Jersey).
2015, released Jail Break album (Blue Road), produced by Jim VanCleve.
2018, released “Moonshiner’s Daughter” album (Blue Road), also produced by VanCleve.

Circa Blue

Posted on February 25, 2015September 20, 2019 by WR

CIRCA BLUE

From Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Formed in 2010 by Steve Harris (guitar). Other members: Steve’s brother Dave Harris (bass), Ron Webb (mandolin), Jon Glik (fiddle) and Matt Hickman (banjo).
Bandleader Steve Harris is also a residential building contractor.
The word “circa” is a latin word meaning “about” or “approximately.”
2012, released first (self-titled) album (no label).
2014, released A Darker Blue album (no label).
2014, Malia Furtado (fiddle) and Teri Chism (bass) joined the band.
2016, released Once Upon a Time album (Orange Blossom).
2016, released “Bells of Home,” a Christmas album (Orange Blossom).
2019, released Footprints in a Song album (Bell Buckle).

Circuit Riders

Posted on November 11, 2013March 9, 2019 by WR

CIRCUIT RIDERS

From North Carolina.
Formed in 2004 by Darin Aldridge, Greg Corbett, Billy Gee, Jaret Carter and Greg Luck.
Several members of this band (all but Luck) were members of the last Country Gentlemen band before Charlie Waller’s death. Luck had previously worked with Third Tyme Out.
2006, released one album “Let the Ride Begin” (Pinecastle).
2008, disbanded. Darin Aldridge married singer Brooke Justice and formed a new band.
There was another, completely different bluegrass band in Southern California called Circuit Riders (1985-1995) which included Terry and Sharon Stanton, Randy Frank, Bob Applebaum, Harry Orlove and others.

Circus No. 9

Posted on February 25, 2020July 2, 2022 by WR

CIRCUS NO. 9

From East Tennessee.
A progressive bluegrass band described as “John Hartford meets John Coltrane.”
Formed in 2016 by Matthew Davis (banjo), Thomas Cassell (mandolin), Vince Ilagan (bass), and Ben Garnett (guitar).
Matthew Davis (banjo) has won both the National Banjo Championship and the Rockygrass Banjo Championship. He also plays with a “chambergrass” (bluegrass/jazz/classical chamber music) group called Westbound Situation.
Thomas Cassell (mandolin) won the Rockygrass Mandolin Championship (2016). He has also performed with the Bryan Sutton Band, Billy Strings, Missy Raines, Becky Buller, and others. He has released a solo album called Voyager (no label).
2018, released Modernus album (no label).
2020, Cassell received the IBMA’s Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2022, released self-titled album (Bonfire).

Clark, Bobby

Posted on November 11, 2013November 11, 2013 by WR

BOBBY CLARK

From Oklahoma.
Won the national mandolin championship in Winfield, Kansas.
Early bands: The Bluegrass Revue with Vince Gill. Also worked with Vassar Clements, Peter Rowan, Larry McNeeley, Jim Lauderdale and the Bluegrass Cardinals.
1985-2001, a member of The Mike Snider Trio.
2002, formed (with banjo player Blake Williams) the Williams and Clark Expedition.
2009, joined Jerry Butler and the Blu-J’s.
He is also a luthier, building Dr. Mojo custom guitars.

Clark Brothers, The

Posted on November 11, 2013November 11, 2013 by WR

THE CLARK BROTHERS / SONS OF SYLVIA

From Rocky Mount, Virginia
Originally a gospel group formed by Freddy and Sylvia Clark and their nine children (all boys). Freddy Clark is an evangelist. For several years, they toured in two Silver Eagle buses, holding revivals all over the Southeast.
The nine boys are called “the A-team”: Alan, Aaron, Adam, Andrew, Ashley, Andrew, Austin, Abraham, and Alexander.
1998, changed their name to the Clark Family Experience, featuring six of the boys: Alan, Andrew, Austin, Adam, Ashley and Aaron.
1998, they began performing on weekly “Live from Las Vegas” show (TNN) hosted by the Oak Ridge Boys. They also appeared on “Prime Time Country” and opened several shows for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. They also toured with George Strait.
2000, recorded album on Curb Records produced by Tim McGraw. Their single “Meanwhile Back at the Ranch” became a top 10 country single and CMT video.
2003, changed their name to “Clark.”
2007, “The Clark Brothers” (Adam, Ashley, and Austin) won Fox TV’s “The Next Great American Band” as a trio. The prize: a recording deal and a bit of fame.
2005-2009, Ashley Clark toured with Carrie Underwood as her fiddle player.
2010, The Clark Brothers renamed themselves The Sons of Sylvia and became a country rock band.

Clark, Marvin

Posted on November 11, 2013 by WR

MARVIN CLARK

From Beverly, Ohio.
A singer/songwriter/guitarist who founded the Ohio Valley Opry, an old-time music venue on McConnelsville, Ohio. He performs there regularly.
His songs “Like a Train Needs a Track” and “One Little Teardrop” were recorded by the Lonesome River Band.
He, his wife and four daughters have a traveling traditional gospel group.
2011, released a solo project for Mountain Fever Records.

Clark, Roy

Posted on November 11, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

ROY CLARK

From Meherrin, Virginia. Lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
As a boy, played bluegrass with his father, Hester Clark, and other members of his family in a group called the Southside Virginians.
Mid-1970’s, recorded two albums of bluegrass music with the Southside Virginians and other family friends.
By his own admission, he wasn’t an accomplished banjo player but in his words, “I love to play.” He recorded two albums of banjo duets with his longtime friend Buck Trent, “Pair of Fives” (1975) and “Banjo Bandits” (1978).
Won both CMA (1973) and ACM (1972-73) awards for “Entertainer of the Year.”
1969-1997, co-hosted (with Buck Owens) the TV Show “Hee-Haw.” He appeared on 294 episodes of the show.
1983, opened the Roy Clark Celebrity Theatre in Branson, Missouri. He was the first country music star to have a theatre there. (He sold the venue to the Hughes Brothers in 1999).
1987, he became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
2009, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2018, died at the age of 85

Clark, Will

Posted on May 30, 2024 by WR

WILL CLARK

From Pickens, South Carolina.
Plays all the bluegrass instruments but focuses primarily on mandolin.
2012, joined the James King Band. He also worked with Williamson Branch, The Bluegrass Outlaws, The Nashville Celts, Nathan Stanley, and The Dave Adkins Band.
He also had his own band called Will Clark & Rhythm Section.
2014, joined Terry Baucom’s Dukes of Drive, playing mandolin and singing lead vocals.
2024, signed with Mountain Fever as a solo artist and released first single.

Claybank

Posted on June 3, 2016August 31, 2021 by WR

CLAYBANK

From West Jefferson, North Carolina.
Formed in 2015 by 15-year old Zack Arnold (mandolin), 17-year old Jacob Greer (guitar), Tyler Thompson (banjo) and Gary Trivette (bass).
2016, won the band competition at RenoFest.
Claybank is the name of a street in the North Carolina community (Ashe County) where they live.
2016, released first album Playing Hard to Forget (Rural Rhythm).
2018, released No Escape album (Mountain Fever).
2019, Thompson and Trivette left the band and were replaced by Jason Davis (banjo), Jamie Harper (fiddle), and Kameron Keller (bass.) All three previously worked with Junior Sisk. Davis and Keller most recently were with the Highland Travelers.
2019, released Road Signs and Highways album (Mountain Fever).
2019, Arnold left the band to join Sideline. In 2021, he joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2020, Greer also joined Sideline. Claybank was disbanded.

Clements, Vassar

Posted on November 14, 2013July 11, 2018 by WR

VASSAR CLEMENTS

From Kissimmee, Florida.
Began playing the fiddle when he was five years old.
Called “The Father of Hillbilly Jazz.”
1949-1956, at age 21 replaced Chubby Wise as Bill Monroe’s fiddle player.
1957-1961, worked with Jim and Jesse.
1962, retired from music due to alcohol problems. During that time, he worked as a switchman for the Atlantic Coast Railroad, as an insurance salesman, in a paper mill, and he even had a potato-chip franchise in Tallahassee.
1968, un-retired when offered job with Faron Young’s band. Also worked with Jimmy Martin, John Hartford and the Earl Scruggs Revue before beginning his solo career in 1973.
1971, performed on the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” album, which won a Grammy award.
1973, was a member of Old & In the Way with Jerry Garcia, David Grisman & Peter Rowan.
As a studio musician, he has played on more than 2000 records, including albums by The Grateful Dead, Paul McCartney and the Boston Pops Orchestra.
1977, released The Bluegrass Sessions album (Flying Fish).
1979, released Hillbilly Jazz album (Flying Fish).
1991, released Grass Routes album (Rounder).
2001, released Full Circle album (OMS) with John Cowan, Ricky Skaggs, Peter Rowan, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Jim & Jesse, and other guests.
2002, recorded and played dates with Old & In the Gray a reunion with Grisman and Rowan.
Died in 2005.
2018, was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Cleveland, Michael

Posted on November 14, 2013June 28, 2022 by WR

MICHAEL CLEVELAND (AND FLAMEKEEPER)

From Louisville, Kentucky. He was born in Henryville, Indiana.
Blind from birth, he began playing fiddle at age 4.
1993, gained national attention at age 12 when he appeared at the IBMA Awards Show with Chris Thile, Josh Williams and other youngsters. There he met Alison Krauss, who invited him to perform on the Grand Ole Opry that same year.
Also at the 1993 IBMA events, he jammed with another blind performer, Doc Watson, which became a highlight of the documentary film “Gather at the River.”
Hobby: he collects pocket knives.
1998, recorded and released “Sawing on the C String”album (no label) at age 17.
1999, graduated from high school and began performing with Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek.
2000, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
2001-2006, re-joined Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek.
2002, released Flame Keeper album (Rounder).
2006, after leaving Dale Ann Bradley’s band, he formed “Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper featuring Audie Blaylock.” Blaylock later formed his own band.
2006, released Let’Er Go Boys album (Rounder).
2008, released Leaving Town album (Rounder).
2009, released a duet album with banjo player Tom Adams, Live at the Ragged Edge (Rounder).
2008, was featured prominently on Vince Gill’s Grammy-winning project “These Days.”
2011, released Fired Up album (Rounder). After the released of this album, the band underwent major personnel changes.
2011, won his 4th IBMA Award for Instrumental Recorded Performance of the Year (for “Going Up Dry Branch).
2014 , released On Down the Line album (Compass).
2016, released Fiddler’s Dream album (Compass).
2017, won the IBMA Awards for Instrumental Recording of the Year (for Fiddler’s Dream).
2018, was elected to the National Fiddlers Hall of Fame.
2019, a documentary film titled “Flamekeeper: The Michael Cleveland Story” was released on Amazon Prime.
2020, won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year (his seventh in that category).
2019, released Tall Fiddler album (Compass).
2019, won his 12th IBMA Award for Fiddle Player of the Year. (He also won in 2001,2002, 2004, 2006,2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2015, and 2018).
2020, won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Performance of the Year for the song “Tall Fiddler” (with Tommy Emmanuel).
2020, won the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album for Tall Fiddler (Compass).
2022, was awarded the National Endowment for the Arts “National Heritage Fellowship,” the highest award offered in the United States for the folk and traditional arts.

Cleverlys, The

Posted on November 14, 2013November 25, 2019 by WR

THE CLEVERLYS

- From Cane Spur, Arkansas, a fictional Ozark town.
- On stage, they portray a family bluegrass band: Digger Cleverly (guitar), Ricky Lloyd Cleverly (bass), Cub Cleverly (mandolin), DVD Cleverly (banjo) and Sock Cleverly (fiddle).
- Who they really are: Paul Harris (Digger), Matt Skates (Ricky Lloyd), Cameron Owens (Cub), Will McLean (DVD) and Matt Flake (Sock).
- The band was the brainchild of Harris, a stand-up comedian who performed for many years in Branson, Missouri. Originally from Mountain View, Arkansas, he moved to Nashville in 2005 and came up with the idea for the Cleverlys there.
- Dressed in exaggerated hillbilly-cowboy costumes, they specialize in bluegrass covers of popular songs along with the comedy routines of Harris.
- 2010, they made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.
- 2019, released Blue album (Mountain Home).

Clifton, Bill

Posted on November 14, 2013September 30, 2024 by WR

BILL CLIFTON

Native of Baltimore (Lutherville), Maryland. Lives in Mendota, Virginia.
Real name: William Marburg. Changed his name in 1950 to avoid embarrassing his family.
One of bluegrass music’s true “international” stars. His albums have been released by record companies in the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, Japan, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, South Africa, France, Australia and New Zealand.
He has been called the first “citybilly” in bluegrass music.
1952, formed his first band, The Dixie Mountain Boys. Played the Wheeling (WV) Jamboree for several years.
He was backed by the Country Gentlemen on many of his recordings.
Although he performed bluegrass music throughout his career, he preferred being known as a folk singer, thus getting more exposure and appealing to a wider audience.
His early recordings were on the Starday and Mercury labels.
1959, worked as a stock broker on the New York Stock Exchange.
1961, organized a historic one-day bluegrass event on July 4th that brought together most of the nation’s top acts which drew more than 2000 and inspired Carlton Haney (who was there) to organize the first three-day bluegrass music festival a few years later.
Was one of the organizers of the Newport Folk Festival, giving birth to the revival of folk music in the 1960’s.
1963, visited England and liked it so much that he stayed for 15 years. He appeared regularly on the BBC. His program was called “Cellar Full of Folk.”
He was a close friend of A.P. Carter.
He was a member of the Peace Corps and traveled extensively.
1973, began touring and recording with mandolinist Red Rector.
1992, he received an IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award for his lifelong contributions to bluegrass music.
2001, he inducted the Carter Family into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
2008, he was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.

RECOMMENDED:

The Early Years 1957-58 (Rounder)

Cline, Charlie

Posted on November 14, 2013 by WR

CHARLIE CLINE

From Baisden, West Virginia.
Late 1940’s, he joined the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers with brothers Curly Ray and Ezra.
1952-55, was a member of Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys, playing fiddle and guitar.
1956, worked with the Stanley Brothers, playing lead guitar.
1960, worked with the Osborne Brothers.
1970, rejoined the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers.
1980, joined Jimmy Martin and the Sunny Mountain Boys.
He became an ordained minister and evangelist in Alabama.
1986, worked with the Warrior River Boys in Alabama.
Died in 2004 in Alabama.

Cline, Curly Ray

Posted on November 14, 2013November 14, 2013 by WR

CURLY RAY CLINE

From Pike County, Kentucky.
Best known as the long-time fiddler with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.
1938, at age 15 formed the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers with brother Ned and cousin Ezra.
1963-1993, worked with Stanley Brothers and then Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys until his retirement.
Nickname: The Old Kentucky Fox Hunter.
Died in 1997.

Clowes, Gina

Posted on April 20, 2019April 20, 2019 by WR

GINA CLOWES (SEE GINA FURTADO)

Clumsy Lovers, The

Posted on November 14, 2013January 20, 2015 by WR

THE CLUMSY LOVERS

From Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Formed in 2001. Began playing pubs in the Vancouver area.
They call their music “raging bluegrass Celtic rock.”
Members: Jason Homey (banjo, mandolin), Chris Jonat (bass), Andrea Lewis (fiddle), Trevor Rogers (guitar), Gord Robert (drums).
2001, released Clumsy Lovers Live album (no label).
2002, released Under the Covers album (no label).
2009, released Make Yourself Known album (no label).
2012, released Smart Kid album (Nettwerk).
2013, released After The Flood album (Nettwerk).

Cluster Pluckers, The

Posted on November 15, 2013February 5, 2022 by WR

THE CLUSTER PLUCKERS

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in 1988 by vocalists Margaret Archer Bailey and Kris Ballinger (who began singing together in 1979 in Vassar Clements’ Hillbilly Jazz Band). Kris’ husband Dale played bass.
They were regulars at Nashville’s Station Inn.
They appeared with Chet Atkins on the PBS TV show, Austin City Limits.
1989, released first album “The Cluster Pluckers” (no label).
1989, appeared on John Hartford’s album Down On The River.
Sang with Hoyt Axton in the Ken Burns TV special, “Songs of the Civil War.”
1992, released “Just Pluck It” album (no label).
1993, appeared at President Clinton’s inauguration, representing the state of Tennessee.
Backing musicians included Richard Bailey (banjo), Brent Truitt (mandolin), Mark Howard (guitar) and Blaine Sprouse (fiddle).
Occasional Pluckers included Jimmy Mattingly (fiddle), Randy Howard (fiddle), Roy Husky, Jr. (bass), David Grier (guitar), Andrea Zonn (fiddle), Kathy Chiavola (guitar and vocals).
Their name was given to them by singer/songwriter Billy Edd Wheeler (of “Coward of the County” fame). He noticed that they “stood in a cluster while they plucked.”
1995, released “Unplucked” album (no label).
1995, released “Gospel Favorites” album (Chapel Music Group).
They disbanded in 2003.
2021, Margaret Bailey died at the age of 67.

RECOMMENDED:

Bluegrass Gospel Favorites (Green Hill, 2002)

Coaltown Dixie

Posted on January 12, 2016 by WR

COALTOWN DIXIE

From east Kentucky.
Described as “High Heeled Bluegrass,” they were formed in 2009 by Kris Bailey Preston (mandolin), Kalyn Bradford (guitar), Stephanie May Rose (bass) and Melanie Turner (banj0).
They have been the recipients of a National Bluegrass B.O.R.N. (Bands On the Rise Nationally) Award, been featured as “Future Stars” in the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Travel Guide and appeared on the cover of M.E. Music Entertainment magazine.
2016, released their third album “No Town Like Coaltown” (no label).

Cockman Family, The

Posted on November 15, 2013August 1, 2021 by WR

THE COCKMAN FAMILY

- A gospel group from Sherrills Ford, North Carolina.
- The Cockman Family include four brothers, their sister and their father. John Cockman Sr. (guitar), Caroline Cockman Fisher (lead vocals), John Cockman Jr. (fiddle), Billy Cockman (banjo), David Cockman (bass) and Ben Cockman (mandolin).
- Began performing together as a band in 1988. They have been featured performers at Dollywood Theme Park.
- Named one of 12 “Most Creative Families in America” by American Greetings Cards and USA Weekend.
- Have been featured in several regional PBS TV shows including “A Cockman Family Christmas.”
- They are the host band for the annual Fiddler’s Grove Music Festival in Union Grove, North Carolina.
- 2006, released The Promise album (no label)
- 2009, released All About Love album (no label).
- 2012, released Dedicated album (no label).
- 2013, Billy Cockman won the National Guitar and Banjo Championship in Winfield, Kansas.
- Ben has won the National Flatpick Guitar Championship (Winfield, KS), the South Carolina Guitar Championship, the Merlefest Guitar Championship, and the Wayne Henderson Festival Guitar Championship.

Cody Sisters, The

Posted on September 5, 2018September 5, 2018 by WR

THE CODY SISTERS

From Parker, Colorado
A group featuring sisters Megan Cody (guitar, mandolin, age 15 in 2018) and Maddie Cody (guitar, banjo, age 13 in 2018). Their father Steve plays bass.
2018, released “White on the Blue” album (no label). Toured the UK in support of it.

Coffey, David

Posted on November 15, 2013January 7, 2015 by WR

DAVID COFFEY

From Waynesboro, Virginia.
A multi-instrumentalist who plays all the bluegrass instruments.
Age 16, toured with a gospel group called The Crestmen.
Worked for three years in a band with Lew Dewitt of the original Statler Brothers.
2000, released first solo album and formed a new band called “Virginia Blend.”
2002, formed a band called “Phoenix.”

Furtado, Gina

Posted on September 3, 2017June 4, 2021 by WR

GINA FURTADO

From Winchester, Virginia.
Began playing piano as a child but switched to banjo at age 11. Took lessons from Murphy Henry and Mike Munford.
Was a finalist numerous times in the banjo competition at the Galax Old Tme Fiddler’s Convention.
Played in a family band for several years. Her sister Malia Furtado plays fiddle in the band Circa Blue; her brother Victor Furtado is a clawhammer banjo virtuoso. Her sister Lu Furtado also plays clawhammer banjo and bass.
2013-2016, played banjo in the group Bud’s Collective.
2016, joined Chris Jones and the Night Drivers.
2017, released solo project True Colors (Mountain Home) under the name Gina Clowes (her married name at the time).
2019, left Chris Jones and the Night Drivers to form her own group The Gina Furtado Project. Band members include Drew Matulich (guitar), Max Johnson (bass) and sister Malia Furtado (fiddle).
2019, released I Hope You Have a Good Life album (Mountain Home).

Colebrook Road

Posted on December 13, 2018May 20, 2020 by WR

COLEBROOK ROAD

From Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Formed in 2008 by Jesse Eisenbise (guitar, lead vocals) and Wade Yankey (mandolin). Other members: Jeff Campbell (bass), Mark Rast (banjo), and Joe McAnulty (fiddle).
They are winners of the 2016 D.C. Bluegrass Union’s Mid Atlantic Bluegrass band contest in Washington D.C., the 2015 Podunk Bluegrass Festival band contest in Hebron, CT, the 2014 Watermelon Park Fest band contest in Berryville, VA, and the 2011 Pickin’ In The Panhandle Bluegrass Festival band contest in Martinsburg, WV,
2012, released first self-titled album (no label).
2016, released Halfway Between album (no label).
2019, released On Time album (Mountain Fever).

Common Strings

Posted on November 15, 2013January 20, 2015 by WR

COMMON STRINGS

From Blairsville, Georgia
Formed in 2003 when Darron and Vanessa Nichols (now married) first met. Vanessa is from Kentucky.
Play a blend of bluegrass and Appalachian folk music.
Band Members: Darron Nichols (mandolin), Vanessa Nichols (guitar), Blake McDaniel (banjo), Eathan Walker (bass).
2008, released first album “The Rain Came Down” (Lou Bell Records).
2010, released Somewhere In Glory album (Rural Rhythm Christian)

Commonwealth Bluegrass

Posted on April 30, 2018November 17, 2021 by WR

COMMONWEALTH BLUEGRASS BAND

From Richmond, Virginia.
Formed in 2013 by Randy Cook (mandolin), Malcolm Pulley (banjo), Jason Owens (guitar), Lance Seal (bass), and Wally Hughes (fiddle). Other band members have included Jim Green (bass), Glenn Waller (guitar), Mike Bailiff (guitar) and Joe Currence (bass).
The group began as Randy Cook and the Commonwealth Bluegrass Band but later changed its name to simply the Commonwealth Bluegrass Band.
Cook and Pulley had previously worked together with James Bailey and Company.
Pulley is a prolific songwriter. He wrote the song “In the Gravel Yard,” which was recorded by Blue Highway and nominated for IBMA Song of the Year in 1996.
2014, released self titled album (no label).
2017, released “Love Reunited” album (no label.)

Compton, Mike

Posted on November 15, 2013September 13, 2024 by WR

MIKE COMPTON

Native of Meridian, Missisippi (the homeplace of Jimmie Rodgers).
He is a master of the “Monroe-style” mandolin. He has been a member of several Grammy and IBMA Award-winning bands and also performs as a solo artist and A-list studio musician.
1970, worked with Hubert Davis and the Season Travelers.
1984-1988, he was an original member of the Nashville Bluegrass Band. He left the band after a serious bus accident in which he was injured.
1990, left Nashville, worked in New York’s Catskills Mountains as a cottage caretaker and bus driver
1991, recorded and toured with guitarist David Grier. They released one album together Climbing the Walls (Rounder).
1995, joined Chris Jones’ band, the Night Drivers.
1996, joined John Hartford’s touring “String Band”and worked with him until his death in 2001.
2000, performed on the soundtrack to the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and appeared on the Down from the Mountain tour and album. He was one of the “Soggy Bottom Boys.”
2001, returned to the Nashville Bluegrass Band (replacing Roland White).
2006, released Stomp album (Acoustic Disk).
2011, released “Rotten Taters” album (no label).
2012, formed a group with David Grier, Missy Raines and Shad Cobb called The Helen Highwater String Band.
2012, released a live album with guitarist/banjo player Joe Newberry titled Live (no label).
2021, became an artist-in-residence at East Tennesse State University (teaching in their Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies program).
2024, released a duet album with Joe Newberry Home in My Heart (EMG).

Connell, Dudley

Posted on November 16, 2013 by WR

DUDLEY CONNELL

From the Washington, D.C. area.
1975, founded the Johnson Mountain Boys, playing guitar and singing lead. Led this group until the band’s final breakup in 1994.
1989-1998, worked as manager at the Smithsonian/Folkways record company office in Rockville, MD.
1992, toured with Hazel Dickens.
1993-4, toured with the “Masters of the 5-String Banjo” singing duets with Laurie Lewis.
1994, formed Longview with Don Rigsby, Marshall Wilborn, Joe Mullins, James King and Glen Duncan.
1996, joined the Seldom Scene, playing guitar and singing lead.
2000, recorded first of two albums with Don Rigsby.
2000, won the IBMA award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
2006, formed a band called Seneca Rocks (with Tom Adams, David McLaughlin, Sally Love & Marshall Wilborn.)

Connie and Babe and the Backwoods Boys

Posted on November 16, 2013January 20, 2015 by WR

CONNIE AND BABE AND THE BACKWOODS BOYS

From middle Tennessee.
Connie Gately (guitar) and Babe Lofton (guitar). Band members included Thayer Washer (vocals), Red Roberts (fiddle), Fred Gately (bass) and Joe Drumright (banjo).
Recorded in the 1950’s for Starday Records.
They also recorded as “Connie and Joe and the Backwoods Boys.”
Drumright and Gately both worked for a short time with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys.
Babe Lofton’s real name was Ernest Ward Lofton. He was given the nickname “Babe” when he was a baby.
The group’s sound is continuing with the music of Jody Drumright (son of Joe) and Fred Lofton (son of Babe) and their group “The Sons of the Backwoods.”
Babe Lofton died in 1993.
Connie Gately died in 2012.

Cook, Amanda

Posted on August 30, 2018October 10, 2022 by WR

AMANDA COOK

From Pace, Florida (near Pensacola on the Gulf Coast).
2007, formed a bluegrass group with her banjo-playing father called High Cotton.
2013, released first solo project “One Stop Along the Road” (no label).
2016, formed a band called Kennesaw Ridge with Amanda (mandolin), Carolyne VanLierop (banjo), Crystal Owens (bass), Scotty French (guitar), and George Mason (fiddle).
2017, released Deep Water album (Mountain Fever).
2019, released Point of No Return album (Mountain Fever).
2022, released Changes album (Mountain Fever)

Cooke, Jack

Posted on November 16, 2013 by WR

JACK COOKE

From Norton, Virginia. (In 1963, he served a half-term as Mayor of Norton.)
1955, joined the Stanley Brothers, playing bass.
1956-1960, joined Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys, playing guitar, singing lead.
1960, formed his own band, the Virginia Mountain Boys.
1965, worked with Earl Taylor and the Stoneman Family.
1970 until his death, played bass with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys.
2006, released solo album “Sittin’ On Top of the World,” produced by Jim Lauderdale.
Died in 2009.

Cooper, Wilma Lee (and Stoney)

Posted on November 16, 2013June 30, 2018 by WR

WILMA LEE (AND STONEY) COOPER

From Valley Head, West Virginia.
Wilma Lee, her parents and two sisters had a gospel group in the 1930’s called the Leary Family. Wilma Lee began performing at the age of five.
Dale T. “Stoney” Cooper was hired as the Leary family’s fiddle player. He married Wilma Lee in 1940.
Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper performed together for 38 years.
1957, they became members of the Grand Ole Opry.
1957-1961, they had four top ten Billboard country hits including “Big Midnight Special” and “There’s a Big Wheel.”
Their band, The Clinch Mountain Clan, was one of the first to feature the Dobro™.
Wilma Lee has been known for her powerful and energetic lead singing. She said her style came about because when she started out as a singer—there were no sound systems. “Back in those days, you were good if you were loud. It was the only way you could be heard!”
Wilma Lee was Hank Williams’ favorite female singer. She recorded duets with him in 1951.
1974, the Smithsonian Institution named her “the first lady of bluegrass.”
1977, Stoney died at the age of 58.
1994, the IBMA presented her with a Distinguished Achievement Award.
Daughter Carol Lee led her own group “The Carol Lee Singers” who performed as regulars on the Grand Ole Opry providing background vocals for many Opry stars.
2001, suffered a stroke while performing on stage at the Grand Ole Opry.
Wilma Lee died in 2010 at the age of 90.

Corbett, Tom

Posted on November 16, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

TOM CORBETT

From Encino (San Fernando Valley), California (born and raised in Columbus, Ohio).
Was a member of the Acousticats and the Disneyland Bluegrass Band.
A mandolinist heavily influenced by David Grisman, Sam Bush, Frank Wakefield, Mike Marshall and Bill Monroe.
Teaches mandolin at the Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor and Traditional Music stores in the LA area.
Performs with The Tom Corbett Band.
Has also worked with Cyrus Clarke, John McEwen and an Irish group called Buzzworld.
2001, taught Tom Sellick to play Ukelele for his role in the Broadway play “Send in the Clowns.”
2001, recorded first solo album.
2005, toured with Robin and Linda Williams.

Cordle, Larry

Posted on November 16, 2013October 31, 2024 by WR

LARRY CORDLE (AND LONESOME STANDARD TIME)

From Cordell, Kentucky (named after his ancestors). Ricky Skaggs is also from Cordell. They were neighbors. Lives in Nashville.
While in the service, played in a rock band called “Hot Lucy.”
After getting out of the service, he became an accountant.
Songwriting credits: “Two Highways” (Alison Krauss), “Lonesome Standard Time” (Kathy Mattea), “Lonesome Dove” (Tisha Yearwood), “Highway 40 Blues” (Ricky Skaggs), “Against the Grain” (Garth Brooks) and “Murder on Music Row” (George Strait and Alan Jackson).
1990, with fiddler Glen Duncan, formed the band Lonesome Standard Time. They were originally known as “Larry Cordle, Glen Duncan and Lonesome Standard Time.”
1993, released “Mighty Lonesome” album (Sugar Hill).
1993, won IBMA award for Song of the Year (“Lonesome Standard Time”).
1995, released “Lonesome As It Gets” album (Sugar Hill).
1995, disbanded the group.
1998, re-formed as “Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time.”
1999, released Murder On Music Row album (Shell Point Records).
2000, won both the CMA and IBMA awards for Song of the Year (“Murder on Music Row,” co-written with Larry Shell.)
2001, won a second CMA award for “Murder on Music Row.”
2002, released Songs From the Workbench album (Shell Point).
2004, released a Lynard Skynard tribute album Lonesome Skynyrd Time (CMH Records).
2004, recorded the song “You’re Runnin’ Wild” in a trio with Carl Jackson and Jerry Salley on the album “Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’: Songs of the Louvin Brothers” which won a Grammy for Best Country Album.
2007, released Took Down & Put Up album (Lonesome Day Records).
2011, released Pud Marcum’s Hangin’ album (Mighty Cord Records).
2014, released an album of duets (All Star Duets) with some of the artists who have recorded his songs including Garth Brooks, Ricky Skaggs, Alison Krauss, Dierks Bentley, Diamond Rio and Kathy Mattea (Mighty Cord Records).
2015, he was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.

Cornerstone

Posted on November 16, 2013 by WR

CORNERSTONE

From Ithaca, (upstate) New York.
Formed in 1990.
1991, won the Winterhawk Bluegrass Festival band contest.
Banjo player Chris Stuart has written several songs recorded by Claire Lynch, Suzanne Thomas, Junior Sisk, Sally Jones, Larry Cordle and others.
1996, Stuart moved to San Diego, California to work as a computer consultant. After playing with several local bands he formed his own group Chris Stuart and BackCountry in 2003. He is also producer of the IBMA Awards Show.

Cort, Sharon

Posted on November 16, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

SHARON CORT (AND NEW RIVER RANCH)

From Southern California. Lives in Nashville.
In California she performed regularly at The Venice Beach Sidewalk Cafe, the Palomino Club in North Hollywood, and other LA area venues.
Attended L.A. Valley College on a theater arts scholarship, won the school’s “Best Actress” award.
1988, helped revive the Ash Grove folk club in L.A. (The club ultimately failed.)
1994, moved to Nashville and formed her band New River Ranch, which has included such musicians as Bill Keith, Butch Baldasari, Ernie Sykes.
She has made several tours of Europe, England and Scotland.

Corum, Pete

Posted on November 16, 2013 by WR

PETE CORUM (AND RISING SUN)

From Burlington, North Carolina.
Real name is Jervis Corum. Pete is a nickname.
1975, played bass with Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass.
1980, released “House of the Rising Sun” album on Programme Audio label. His Rising Sun band included former members of the Bass Mountain Boys and Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
1988, performed in the Off-Broadway play “Cotton Patch Gospel” and appeared in the motion picture based on the play.

Country Cooking

Posted on November 16, 2013March 12, 2019 by WR

COUNTRY COOKING

From Ithaca, New York.
Formed in 1970, one of the first bands to mix jazz and rock stylings with traditional bluegrass.
Featured several instrumental virtuosos: Tony Trischka (banjo), Peter Wernick (guitar and banjo), Russ Barenberg (guitar), Andy Statman (mandolin), and Kenny Kosek (fiddle). Also in the band: Nondi Leonard (vocals) and John Miller (bass).
1971, released first album “14 Bluegrass Instrumentals” (Rounder).
1972, released “Barrel of Fun” album (Rounder).
1975, released “Country Cooking with the Fiction Brothers” album (Flying Fish). The Fiction Brothers were Alan Senauke (guitar) and Howie Tarnower (mandoin). By this time, Kenny Kosek, Pete Wernick and his wife Nondi (AKA Joan) were the only remaining original members of the band. Michael Gold (bass) and Peggy Haine (vocals) were also members.
Broke up in 1976 when the Wernicks moved to Colorado. Pete later formed the band Hot Rize.

Country Current

Posted on November 16, 2013March 29, 2022 by WR

COUNTRY CURRENT (U.S. NAVY BAND)

Based in Annapolis, Maryland.
Formed in 1973 by banjo player Bill Emerson. He remained with the group until 1993.
The bluegrass/country music unit of the U.S. Navy Band. They have been called “the musical equivalent to the Navy’s Blue Angels.” All of the personnel are active duty military.
They have performed at the Grand Ole Opry, for Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and overseas in Stockholm, Nova Scotia and Beijing.
1987-2008, featured guitarist/lead singer Wayne Taylor.
1996-2016, banjo player Keith Arneson was a member of this band.
2001, Taylor and Arneson recorded a bluegrass album called “Appaloosa.”
2003-2008, Frank Solivan played mandolin and fiddle with this band.
2008, Taylor retired from the band and was replaced by guitarist/vocalist Kenny Ray Horton. Taylor now fronts his own band Appaloosa.
2016, banjo player Keith Arneson retired and was replaced by the band’s first female member Haley Stiltner.
2022, lineup includes Sally Sandker (guitar/vocals), Caleb Cox (guitar/vocals), Haley Stiltner (banjo) and Patrick McAvinue (fiddle/mandolin). Sandker is Rhonda Vincent’s daughter, Cox formerly worked with Nothin’ Fancy and McAvinue with Dailey & Vincent.

RECOMMENDED:

Navy Blue Bluegrass (Altissimo, 2001)

Country Gazette, The

Posted on November 16, 2013June 23, 2018 by WR

THE COUNTRY GAZETTE

From Levelland, Texas.
They were called “America’s Bluegrass Band.”
Formed in 1970 in Los Angeles featuring Byron Berline (fiddle), Alan Munde (banjo), Kenny Wertz (guitar) and Roger Bush (bass). Herb Pederson was originally going to play banjo but dropped out early and was replaced by Munde.
They recorded two albums for United Artists after touring Europe with The Flying Burrito Brothers.
1972, released “A Traitor in Our Midst” album (United Artists)
1973, released “Don’t Give Up Your Day Job” album (United Artists)
1974, Wertz left the band and was replaced by Roland White.
1974, released “Country Gazette Live” album (Antilles).
1975, released “Out to Lunch” album (Ariola).
1975, Berline and Bush left and the band continued under the leadership of Alan Munde and Roland White. Other band members over the next twenty years included Joe Carr, Dave Ferguson, Billy Joe Foster, Gene Wooten, Michael Anderson, David Grier, Bill Smith, Dawn Watson and others.
1077, released “What a Way to Make a Living” album (Ridge Runner).
1979, released “All This and Money Too” album (Ridge Runner).
1981, released “American and Clean” album (Flying Fish).
1983, released “America’s Bluegrass Band” album (Flying Fish).
1986, released “Bluegrass Tonight!” album (Flying Fish).
1988, released “Strictly Instrumental” album (Flying Fish).
1995, they disbanded for good.
2004, Alan Munde formed a new band called “The Alan Munde Gazette.”

Country Gentlemen, The

Posted on November 16, 2013October 2, 2024 by WR

THE COUNTRY GENTLEMEN

From Washington, DC.
How they formed: In July of 1957, Buzz Busby and the Bayou Boys were performing at the Admiral Grill in Bailey’s Crossroads, Virginia (Washington, DC area) when they were involved in a serious auto accident. This put Buzz Busby and other members of the band in the hospital. Bill Emerson, a member of the band who was not in the accident put together a pick-up band to fulfill some of the band’s commitments. In that band was Charlie Waller (guitar) and John Duffey (mandolin.) They were an instant success and decided to keep the new band together. Their first performance was on July 4, 1957.
The original band included Charlie Waller (guitar), Bill Emerson (banjo), John Duffey (mandolin) and Larry Leahy (bass). Tom Morgan replaced Leahy on bass soon after the band started.
John Duffey (who later founded the Seldom Scene) suggested the name “Country Gentlemen” to Charlie Waller, who became the band’s leader. Interestingly enough, the name “Seldom Scene” was suggested to Duffey by Charlie Waller a few years later.
Former members of the band include Ricky Skaggs, John Duffey, Doyle Lawson, Eddie Adcock, Jerry Douglas, Jimmy Gaudreau, Mike Auldridge, Bill Emerson, Tom Gray, Bill Yates, others.
They were one of the first bluegrass bands to become popular on the folk music circuit, performing on many college campuses, at the Newport Folk Festival and Carnegie Hall.
1965, their song “Bringing Mary Home” climbed to #43 on Billboard Magazine’s country music charts.
1993, began performing as “Charlie Waller and The Country Gentlemen.”
1996, the “Classic” Country Gentlemen (Waller, Duffey, Adcock and Gray) were inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Honor.
2004, Waller died of a heart attack.
2005, Randy Waller (son of Charlie) began performing with his own version of the Country Gentlemen.
2005, Bill Yates (a former member of the band) formed “Bill Yates and Friends” which later became The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band.

RECOMMENDED:

The Early Rebel Recordings: 1962-1971 (Rebel)
The Complete Vanguard Recordings (Vanguard)
25 Years (Rebel, 1994)
Calling My Children Home (Rebel, 1978).
Award Winning (Rebel, 1972)

Country Gentlemen Tribute Band, The

Posted on January 22, 2024July 17, 2024 by WR

THE COUNTRY GENTLEMEN TRIBUTE BAND (SHOW)

From Washington, D.C. area.
Formed in 2005 as Bill Yates and Friends by Bill Yates, a 20-year member of the Country Gentlemen, and started with Mike Phipps (guitar), Bill Yates (vocals), Darren Beachley (guitar) David Propst (mandolin), Scott Walker (banjo), Mark Clifton (Dobro™) and Dave MacGlashan (bass). They later became known as The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band and have continued on as such with Mike Phipps sounding remarkably like original Country Gentlemen’s lead singer, Charlie Waller..
YBill Yates passed away in 2015. The band has continued on with the most current members being Mike Phipps (guitar), David Propst (mandolin), Lynwood Lunsford (banjo), Darren Beachley (Dobro™) and Kyle Windbeck (bass).
2006, released Bill Yates & Friends: The Country Gentlemen Tribute album (MasterShield).
2009, released Bill Yates & Friends: The Country Gentlemen Tribute, Volume II album (MasterShield).
2023, released Yesterday and Tomorrow album (Patuxent Music).
2024, Taylor Parks (bass) joined the band, replacing Kyle Windbeck.
2024, they changed the official name of the group to The Country Gentlemen Show.

Country Grass

Posted on March 12, 2019March 12, 2019 by WR

COUNTRY GRASS

From Virginia.
Formed in 1974 by Wes Golding (guitar) and Herschel Sizemore (mandolin). Other band members: Wayne Golding (bass) and Tom McKinney (banjo).
1974, released one album “Livin’ Free” (Rebel).
Broke up in 1975 when Wes Golding was invited to form a new band with Ricky Skaggs called Boone Creek.

Country Ham

Posted on November 16, 2013September 1, 2024 by WR

COUNTRY HAM

An old-time string band from the Washington DC area.
Formed in 1975 by Carl and Judy Pagter.
The Pagters had homes in both Virginia and California. (Carl worked in Walnut Creek, California and lived there much of the year while Judy lived on the Pagter Farm in Barboursville, Virginia.)
The band also featured master fiddler Joe Meadows.
Carl is the founder of the California Bluegrass Association.
2023, Carl Pagter died at the age of 89.

Country Store, The

Posted on November 16, 2013March 12, 2019 by WR

THE COUNTRY STORE

From Virginia.
Formed in 1973 by Keith Whitley (guitar), Jimmy Gaudreau (mandolin), Carl Jackson (banjo) and Bill Rawlings (bass). Later, Jackson was replaced by Jimmy Arnold and Whitley was replaced by Chris Stifel.
They were originally known as The New Tradition but changed their name to the Country Store.
They recorded two albums, one of them a live 1973 performance recorded at Bill Grant’s Hugo, Oklahoma bluegrass festival. It featured Whitley, Gaudreau and Rawlings, with Alan Munde (of the Country Gazette) on banjo, subbing for an ailing Jimmy Arnold.
Broke up in 1975.

Cowan, John

Posted on November 16, 2013November 1, 2024 by WR

JOHN COWAN

From Louisville. Lives in Nashville.
Often called “Johnny C.” He is also known as the Voice of Newgrass.
Began his musical career playing bass in a high school rock band called Everyday People.
1974-1990, played bass and sang lead for the New Grass Revival.
1990-1997, joined Rusty Young and Bill Lloyd in a band called The Sky Kings (country-rock). Also worked with the Doobie Brothers (two years), the Sam Bush Band and in two blues bands: Duckbutter and Grooveyard.
1998, formed The John Cowan Band which has over the years included such musicians as Scott Vestal, Jim Hurst, Randy Kohrs, Jeff Autry, Luke Bulla, Noam Pikelny, John Frazier, others.
1998, released Soul’d Out (Sugar Hill), a blues album.
2000, released John Cowan album (Sugar Hill).
2002, released Always Take Me Back album (Sugar Hill).
2006, released New Tattoo album (Pinecastle).
2009, released 8,745 Feet: Live at Telluride album (Koch Records).
2009, released a Christmas album Comfort & Joy (Koch Records).
2010, re-joined the Doobie Brothers.
2010, released The Massenburg Sessions album (Koch Records).
2012, began hosting his own radio show on WSM 650-AM called “I Believe to My Soul.”
2014, released Sixty (Compass Records), a retrospective of his career featuring a variety of musical genres and special guests. Produced by Doobie Brother John McFee.
2016-2018, toured with Darin & Brooke Aldridge (during a break from the Doobie Brothers).
2020, formed a group with Andrea Zonn called The Herculeons.
2024, released Fiction album (True Lonesome).

Cox Family, The

Posted on November 16, 2013June 26, 2024 by WR

THE COX FAMILY

From Cotton Valley, (Northeast) Louisiana.
Formed as a family band in 1974 by father Willard Cox (fiddle) and his children: Suzanne Cox (mandolin), Sidney Cox (banjo/Dobro™), Lynn Cox (bass) and Evelyn Cox (guitar).
Willard Cox began his musical career in 1964 with a group called Dewey Keene and the Country Squires.
Sidney Cox has written numerous songs for Alison Krauss, including “I’ve Got That Old Feeling”, “Steel Rails” and “New Fool.” In 1995, Sidney was inducted into the Songwriter’s Guild Hall of Fame.
1987, released “It’s the Gospel” album (no label).
1988, released “Heartaches Along the Horizon” album (Wilcox).
1993, released Everybody’s Reaching Out for Someone album (Rounder).
1994, released I Know Who Holds Tomorrow album (Rounder).
1995, released Beyond the City album (Rounder).
1995, signed with Asylum Records and subsequently recorded an album of country-oriented songs.
1995, won a Grammy award for Best Southern Gospel, Country Gospel or Bluegrass Gospel Recording (for “I Know Who Holds Tomorrow” by Alison Krauss and the Cox Family).
2000, appeared and sang in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou.”
July 2000, Willard and Marie Cox were seriously injured when a logging truck hit their car from behind.
2004, were awarded Louisiana’s Governor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement in Music.
2015, released Gone Like the Cotton album (Rounder).
2019, Willard Cox passed away at age 82.
2024, Sidney re-organized the group with his daughters Anna (bass), Sara (guitar) and Lydia (mandolin). They released a single The First Time I Heard About Heaven (Will House).

Cox, Kristy

Posted on April 1, 2014March 14, 2020 by WR

KRISTY COX

From Adelaide, South Australia. Moved to Nashville in 2013.
2013, won Australian Independent Artist of the Year at the Australian Independent Country Music Awards. She also won Female Vocalist of the Year.
She has had several “top 10” songs on the Australian Country Music charts.
2014, released album Living for the Moment produced by Jerry Salley (Pisgah Ridge Records).
2015, received the first ever Australian Country Music Award for Bluegrass Recording of the Year.
2016, released Part of Me album (Pisgah Ridge), produced by Jerry Salley.
2017, won the Australian County Music Award for Bluegrass Recording of the Year for “Another Weary Mile” from her Part of Me album (Pisgah Ridge).
2018, released Ricochet album (Mountain Fever).
2019, won the Bluegrass Album of the Year Award (for Ricochet) at the Australian Country Music Awards.
2020, won the Bluegrass Recording of the Year Award (for her single Yesterday’s Heartache) at the Australian Country Music Awards.

Crabtree, Daniel

Posted on January 23, 2024 by WR

DANIEL CRABTREE

From Greenbriar, Tennessee.
Learned to play guitar and sing at age 15. Formed a group at his church called the Lights Chapel Boys, who have continued to perform together ever since.
Began writing songs under the tutelage of songwriter and vocalist Donna Ulisse, who has produced many of his albums.
2016, released The Gospel Road album (Codel).
2017, released The Shadow of His Wings album (Codel).
2019, released The Storyteller in Me album (Codel).
2021, released The Way I See It album (Codel).
2022, released Closer Than I’ve Ever Been album (Codel).
2023, won the IBMA Award for his song “The Scarlet Red Lines” as recorded by Larry Sparks.
2024, released Storms on the Ocean album (Codel).

Craft, Paul

Posted on November 16, 2013July 4, 2023 by WR

PAUL CRAFT

From Nashville. Originally from Memphis.
Best known as a songwriter. His songs were recorded by many top artists, including Linda Ronstadt, the Eagles, Kenny Rogers, Mark Chesnutt, Randy Travis, Ray Stevens, the Osborne Brothers, the Lewis Family, etc.
Some of his best known hits: “Brother Jukebox,” “Blue Heartache,” “Dropkick Me Jesus (through the Goal Posts of Life),” “Midnight Flyer,” “Teardrops Will Kiss the Morning Dew.”
1961, played banjo in Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
1998, released Brother Jukebox album (Strictly Country).
2002, released Raised By the Rail Road Line album (Strictly Country).
2007, released Too Bad You’re No Good album (Strictly Country).
2014, died at the age of 76.

Crandall Creek

Posted on May 5, 2020February 2, 2024 by WR

CRANDALL CREEK

From Moundsville, West Virginia
Formed in 2015 by Jerry Andrews (guitar). Kathy Wigman Lesnock (guitar), Dustin Terpenning (mandolin/banjo). Other band members: Lilli Gadd (bass), Heather Wharton (fiddle), Chase Arbogast (mandolin).
2021, released Headed South album (no label).
2022, released Handprints on the Glass album (no label).
2022, Carly Greer joined the group as lead vocalist.

Crary, Dan

Posted on November 16, 2013June 22, 2023 by WR

DAN CRARY

Native of Kansas City, Missouri. Lives in Placerville, CA.
Also known as “Deacon Dan Crary.” He is regarded as one of the top flat-pick guitarists in bluegrass, one of the early pioneers of the style.
1968, was a founding member of the Bluegrass Alliance (originators of the “Newgrass” style).
1973, released first solo project Bluegrass Guitar (American Heritage).
1974, moved to California to teach at Cal State Fullerton. There he met fiddler Byron Berline and together formed the band Sundance with John Hickman (banjo) and Jack Skinner (bass). They recorded for MCA records.
1974-2004, besides performing as a professional musician, he was a professor of speech communications at Cal State Fullerton. He has two earned doctorates: the first in theology, the second in speech communications.
1975-1995, he had a twenty-year partnership with fiddler Byron Berline and banjo player John Hickman. They performed together as Sundance, BCH and California.
1977, released “Lady’s Fancy” album (Rounder).
1979, released “Sweet Southern Girl”album (Sugar Hill).
1983, released “Dan Crary Guitar” album (Sugar Hill).
1989, released “Take a Step Over” album (Sugar Hill).
1992, released Thunderation album (Sugar Hill), which won the NAIRD Indie Award for “Best String Music Recording.”
1994, released Jammed If I Do album (Sugar Hill).
1999, with banjo player Lonnie Hoppers formed “Crary, Hoppers and their American Band..”
2002, began touring and recording with Italian guitarist Beppe Gambetta.
2003, won an IBMA Award for his writing (Best Liner Notes for BCH album, Chambergrass: A Decade of Tunes From the Edges of Bluegrass.
2007, produced a concert/movie project called Primal Twang: The Legacy of the Guitar featuring Doc Watson, Eric Johnson, Doyle Dykes, Albert Lee, Mason Williams and others legendary guitarists.
2009, began performing with his new band Thunderation.
2011, released Perfect Storm album (Blue Night Records).
2017, began performing with Bill Evans (banjo) and Wally Barnick (bass) in a trio called Crary, Evans and Barnick. They released the album Prime Time (Native and Fine) in 2020.

Crawford, Andrew

Posted on May 13, 2024November 13, 2024 by WR

ANDREW CRAWFORD

From Greenfield, South Carolina.
A singer, songwriter, guitarist (also plays banjo), instructor and recording artist.
He often records with his wife Brandi Colt. They released several projects in 2023.
2024, released Back With a Lonesome Sound (single/Bonfire Music).
2024, he and his wife Brandi joined Wilson Banjo Co.

Creek Bend

Posted on February 7, 2021 by WR

CREEK BEND

From Buffalo, New York.
Formed in 1978 by Ted Lambert. Original members: Ted Lambert (banjo), Ted Lambert Sr. (bass) and Rich Schaefer (guitar).
1980, Marty Bray (guitar) and Kelly Simpson (mandolin) joined.
1981 Bill Matthews replaced Bray on guitar.
1982 lineup: Ted Lambert (banjo and fiddle), Rich Schaefer (bass), Dennis King (guitar), Tom Vaughan (mandolin) and Mark Panfil (dobro and harmonica).
1984, released first album “Firm Foundation” (Mark Records).
1985, Carl Eddy (guitar) and Chris Panfil (mandolin) replaced King and Vaughan.
1987, Doug Yeomans (guitar) replaced Eddy and Chris Panfil left the group to form Sleepless Nights in St. Petersburg, Florida.
1988, released second album “Life’s Highway” (Mark).
1990, won first place in the band contest at the Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival.
1992, released That Home Far Away album (Copper Creek).
1994, Yeomans and Lambert left the band and Carl Eddy (guitar) and Chris Panfil (mandolin) returned.
1996, released Thanksgiving album (Copper Creek).
2005, Eddy left the band and Lambert (banjo, fiddle and mandolin) returned. Chris Panfil switched to guitar.
Over the next few years they were occasionally joined by Paul Norris (mandolin), Perry Cleveland (mandolin), Billy Constable (banjo), John Martz (banjo) and Ross Nickerson (banjo).
2008, released “Thirty Years of Bluegrass” (no label).
2015, Lambert passed away and Philip Banaszak (fiddle) joined the remaining three members Chris Panfil (guitar), Rich Schaefer (bass) and Mark Panfil (dobro and banjo).
2020, Banaszak left the band and was replaced by Sally Schaefer (fiddle), daughter of Rich Schaefer.

Cricket Tell the Weather

Posted on October 4, 2016 by WR

CRICKET TELL THE WEATHER

From Brooklyn, New York.
A string band featuring fiddler and songwriter Andrea Asprelli, originally from Colorado. A classical violinist, she discovered bluegrass/old time music after moving to the east coast.
Band members (various) include: Doug Goldstein and Hilary Hawke (banjo), Dave Speranza and Sam Weber (bass) and Mike Robinson, Jason Borisoff and Jeff Picker (guitar).
2011, Asprelli won the songwriting contest at the Podunk Bluegrass Festival (Hebron, CT).
2013, won the FreshGrass Award in North Adams, MA.
2014, released Cricket Tell the Weather album (no label).
2016, released Tell the Story Right album (no label).

Crisp, Ned (and Bottomline)

Posted on November 4, 2013October 31, 2020 by WR

NED CRISP (AND BOTTOMLINE)

From Worthington, Kentucky.
Band formed in 2002.
Original members: Ned Crisp (banjo), John Manifold (guitar), Don Rambo (bass).
2012, released Taking the Back Roads Home album, produced by Don Rigsby.
Hosts a weekly “Bottomline Bluegrass” radio show on WLGC-FM in Ashland, Kentucky.

Crooked Jades, The

Posted on November 16, 2013January 20, 2015 by WR

THE CROOKED JADES

From the San Francisco Bay area.
Formed in 1994 by guitarist Jeff Kazor. Other members: Tom Lucas (fiddle/banjo), Stephanie Prausnitz (fiddle), Lisa Berman (banjo), Dave Bamberger (bass).
Perform pre-bluegrass music (1880 to 1930) “before the influence of radio.”
The finest string band in America” – The Boston Herald
Motto: “Old Time is Not a Crime.”
2010, collaborated with modern dance choreographer Kate Weare on “Bright Land: Old Time Music meets Modern Dance,” a theatrical production which was performed nationally.
2012, released Bright Land album, recorded live at the Joyce Theater, New York City.

Crooked Still

Posted on November 16, 2013June 29, 2021 by WR

CROOKED STILL

From Boston, Massachusetts.
2001, formed at the New England Conservatory of Music (Boston) at a jam session.
Original members: Aoife O’Donovan (vocals), Rushad Eggleston (cello), Dr. Gregory Liszt (banjo, played four-finger style rather than three), Corey DiMario (bass).
They perform frequently in Ireland as well as the U.S.
2006, released Shaken By a Low Sound album (Signature Sounds).
2007, released Hop High album (Signature Sounds).
2007, Eggleston left the band, was replaced by two new members: Tristan Clarridge on cello and Brittany Haas on fiddle.
2008, released Still Crooked album (Signature Sounds).
2010, released Some Strange Country album (Signature Sounds).
2011, Liszt formed a new band called The Deadly Gentlemen.

Crosspoint

Posted on July 14, 2014January 18, 2015 by WR

CROSSPOINT

From southeast Kentucky/east Tennessee, near Cumberland Gap, Tennessee.
Formed in 2008. A gospel group featuring Alan Powers (banjo), Gary Kidwell (guitar), Steve Partin (mandolin), Daniel Oxendine (bass) and Cleve May (Dobro™).
2011, released debut album “Crosspoint.”
2014, released We’re Gonna Rise album on Rural Rhythm Records, produced by Steve Gulley.

Crow, David

Posted on November 16, 2013 by WR

DAVID CROW

From Florida.
Began musical career at age seven on guitar.
Recorded first fiddle album at age 15.
First band: “Beachville Bluegrass” (while in high school).
1991, moved to Nashville to attend Vanderbilt University as a law student. He went on to become a lawyer.
1991, released “Me and My Fiddle” album.
1992, formed a Nashville-based band called Freewheel Drive.
1992, joined Osborne Brothers’ band (at age 18).
Has won the Florida State Fiddle Championship and the Florida State Mandolin Championship.
1994, released “As the Crow Flies” album.
1997, was elected to the IBMA Board of Directors.
2004-2006, served as president and chairman of the board of IBMA.
2005, joined Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top Express.
2007, formed Milom, Joyce, Horsnell & Crow, a Nashville law firm specializing in entertainment law.

Crowe Brothers, The

Posted on November 16, 2013January 11, 2022 by WR

THE CROWE BROTHERS

From Nebo, North Carolina. They are originally from Clayton, Georgia.
Featured brothers Wallace (guitar) and Wayne (bass). They both go by their middle names (James Wallace and John Wayne). Wallace is also known as Josh.
Early 1970’s, performed as the Blue Ridge Mountain Boys.
1975-1991, worked with legendary banjo player Raymond Fairchild, known as “King of the Smoky Mountain Banjo.”
1981, released “The Crowe Brothers Sing ‘Always True'” album (Skyline).
1984, released “The Gospel Way” album (Skyline).
1985, released “The Winds Are Blowing in Maggie Valley” album (Atteiram).
1988, released “Jesus is Coming” album (Atteiram).
1989, released “I Knew It Wasn’t You” album (Atteiram).
1990, formed their own band, The Crowe Brothers.
1993, Wayne retired from music and Josh formed a duo with David McLaughlin (formerly with the Johnson Mountain Boys). They released one album Going Back (Rounder).
1999, released “Regenesis” album (Copper Creek).
2004, Josh formed the Josh Crowe Band and released “Sincerely” album (Pinecastle).
2005, began performing together again.
2008, released Brothers-N-Harmony (Rural Rhythm).
2011, released Bridging The Gap album (Rural Rhythm).
2014, released Forty Years Old album (Mountain Fever) commemorating their 40 years in the music business.

Crowe, J.D. (and the New South)

Posted on November 16, 2013February 16, 2022 by WR

J.D. CROWE (AND THE NEW SOUTH)

From Lexington, Kentucky.
1955, began his career as a member of Mac Wiseman’s band.
1956, joined Jimmy Martin’s band, The Sunny Mountain Boys and established himself as one of the top banjo players in the world
1966, formed his own group The Kentucky Mountain Boys which included Doyle Lawson and Larry Rice. Red Allen joined in 1968.
1971, changed band name to The New South. Early band included Tony Rice, Larry Rice and Bobby Slone. Doyle Lawson replaced Larry Rice (after a short stint with Jimmy Martin), and Lawson was later replaced by Ricky Skaggs.
Other New South alumni: Jerry Douglas, Keith Whitley, Jimmy Gaudreau, Paul Adkins, Wendy Miller, Gene Johnson (of Diamond Rio), Tony King (of Brooks and Dunn), Phil Leadbetter, Rick Pardue, many others.
Was also a member of the legendary Bluegrass Album Band (with Doyle Lawson, Tony Rice, Jerry Douglas, Bobby Hicks and Todd Phillips).
1990, retired from music (became a mail carrier) but returned in 1992 with a new version of The New South.
2000, his band members left en masse (with Crowe’s blessing) to form a new group called Wildfire.
2003, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.
1994, 2004, won IBMA Award for Banjo Player of the Year.
2004, was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.
2007, won IBMA award for Album of the Year (“Lefty’s Old Guitar”)
2011, won the IBMA Award for “Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year” and “Recorded Event of the Year” (both for “Prayers Bells of Heaven” by J.D. Crowe, Doyle Lawson and Paul Williams)
2012, retired again (this time for good) and disbanded The New South, most of whom formed a new band called American Drive.
2012, his biography was published by the University of Illinois press titled Crowe on the Banjo: The Music Life of J.D. Crowe written by Marty Godbey.
2012, was presented with an honorary doctorate degree by the University of Kentucky.
He was a long-time member of the IBMA’s Trust Fund Board of Directors.
2021, died at the age of 84 on Christmas Eve.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Bluegrass Holiday (King Bluegrass, 1968). The Kentucky Mountain Boys.
Model Church (Rebel Records, 1971). The Kentucky Mountain Boys. Doyle Lawson was in this band.
Blackjack (Rebel Records, 1973). The Kentucky Mountain Boys.
J.D. Crowe & The New South (Rounder, 1976) This is the first New South album featuring Tony Rice, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas and Bobby Slone. This is considered one of the best bluegrass albums ever recorded and is often referred to by fans as 0044, it’s Rounder catalog number).
My Home Ain’t in the Hall of Fame (Rounder, 1979) This album features Keith Whitley on lead vocals.
Live in Japan (Rounder, 1980) A live album with Keith Whitley, lead vocals.
Straight Ahead (Rounder, 1986).
Come on Down to My World (Rounder, 1999).
Lefty’s Old Guitar (Rounder, 2006).

Crucial Smith

Posted on November 16, 2013November 16, 2024 by WR

CRUCIAL SMITH

From Nashville, Tennessee.
Formed in the late eighties by Kyle Wood (mandolin), Tim May (guitar), Michael McLain (banjo), and Dave ‘Doc’ Holladay (bass). McLain was replaced by Chris Joslin (banjo). Wood, May and Holladay were students at Lipscomb University.
Original name of the band was “Sam Hill,” but they discovered that the name was already in use.
The name Crucial Smith’s connection to bluegrass: Smith is Bill Monroe’s middle name.
1997, recorded first album, produced by former New Grass Revival guitarist Pat Flynn.
1999, released Morning Light album (no label), also produced by Pat Flynn.
Mandolinist Kyle Wood was a graphic artist and a former member of Eddie Rabbitt’s Hare Trigger Band. He also edited “Lost in Space,” a science fiction magazine. After Crucial Smith, he recorded a solo project with his own band “The Kyle Wood Project.”
Bass player Dave Holladay was band leader with Geraldo Rivera. He is also an optometrist.
Guitarist Tim May also worked with Eddie Rabbit and The Jim Buchanan System.
Banjo player Chris Joslin formerly performed with the Rutherford County Square Dancers, Free Wheelin’, and The Neverly Brothers. He later became curator of the Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky.
2001, added fiddle player Gretchen Priest, who is married to Tim May. They released a project together called Plaidgrass, a mix of bluegrass and Celtic music.
2003, disbanded after recording a third album that was never released.
2010, guitarist Tim May teamed with fiddle player Fred Carpenter (formerly of the Tony Rice Unit) to form a duo called “Carpenter and May.”
2016, Kyle Wood joined Ray Cardwell and Tennessee Moon.
2021, Kyle Wood died at the age of 55.

Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band

Posted on January 26, 2024September 2, 2024 by WR

CRYING UNCLE BLUEGRASS BAND

From Alameda, California.
Formed in 2016 as the Crying Uncle Duo by brothers Miles Quale (fiddle) and Teo Quale (mandolin), who were 11 and 9 years old at the time.
2017, added Andrew Osborn (bass) and John Gooding (guitar).
2018, released self-titled album (no label).
2020, released Monroe Bridge album (no label).
2022, released The Thing of Dreams album (no label)
2023, Gooding left the band to tour with the Little Roy and Lizzie Show. He was replaced by Ian Ly, winner of the Walnut Valley National Flatpick Guitar Championship that same year.
2023, won the IBMA’s Momentum Band of the Year award.

Cumberland Gap Connection

Posted on November 16, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

CUMBERLAND GAP CONNECTION

From Pike County, Kentucky. Band members are from both Kentucky and Tennessee.
Formed in 2004 by Mike Bentley (guitar and lead vocals). Other band members: Rod Smith (banjo), Clint Hurd (mandolin), Bryan Russell (bass).
Cumberland Gap is a famous pass (now a national park) through the Cumberland (Appalachian) Mountains at the juncture of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia.
2010, released A Whole Lotta Lonesome album, produced by Steve Gulley (Kindred Records).
2011, two new members joined the band: John Miser on mandolin and Albon Clevinger on fiddle, both of Kermit, WV.
2013, released Another Song album (Mountain Fever).
2015, Jeff Smith (bass) and Josh Brown (guitar) joined the band. Other band members: Bentley (guitar), Smith (banjo), Miser (mandolin).
2016, released “Mike Bentley & Cumberland Gap Connection” album (Union House).

Cumberland Highlanders, The

Posted on November 16, 2013February 24, 2022 by WR

THE CUMBERLAND HIGHLANDERS

From Rosine, Kentucky (Bill Monroe’s birthplace).
Called “America’s Mountain Music Show.”
Formed in 1986 by Campbell Mercer (who now serves as Executive Director of the Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Music Association, overseeing Bill Monroe’s restored homeplace in Rosine.)
The band includes four former members of Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys (Wayne Lewis, Tater Tate, Billy Rose, Jimmy Campbell).
Host a weekly TV show on the cable RFD-TV Channel.
2000, released Cumberland Mountain Home album with a guest appearance by Dr. Ralph Stanley (Rural Rhythm).

Cumberland River

Posted on November 16, 2013January 20, 2015 by WR

CUMBERLAND RIVER

From Harlan County, Kentucky.
Formed in 2009 by James Dean (banjo), Joseph Jones (bass), Dustin Middleton (mandolin) and Andy Buckner (guitar). Jamie Stewart (Dobro™) also joined the band.
2010, released “Rock Island Express” album.
2011, appeared on FX Network television show “Justified” and performed the title song (a Cumberland River original).
2011, released The Life We Live album (Rural Rhythm), produced by Steve Gulley.
2012, Brad Gulley (bass) and Gary Robinson (guitar) replaced Jones and Buckner.
2014, broke up.

Curly Dan and Wilma Ann

Posted on November 16, 2013November 16, 2013 by WR

CURLY DAN AND WILMA ANN

Originally from Clay, West Virginia. Moved to Detroit, Michigan and performed there for most of their career. Later moved to Hazel Park, Michigan.
Real names: Denslie and Wilma Ann Holcomb. They were married in 1942.
1955, formed a band called the Danville Mountain Boys.
One of the first bluegrass acts to perform and record in the Detroit area.
1970’s, recorded several albums on the Old Homestead label.
Dan worked for the Chrysler Corporation.
Carmen Flatt (second cousin of Lester Flatt) was a member of their band. (He died in 1993).
Retired from performing in the early 1980’s.

Cyporyn, Dennis

Posted on November 16, 2013 by WR

DENNIS CYPORYN

Banjo virtuoso from Detroit, Michigan.
Pronounced Sigh-por-in.
A writer: his “Bluegrass Songbook” was published by MacMillan, the first of its kind for a major publisher (1992).
In the 60’s and 70’s, performed with Detroit-area bands Roy McGinnis and the Sunnysiders, the Acme Bluegrass Co., and Psychodrama.
1989, formed the Dennis Cyporyn band, performing primarily new acoustic music—jazz, swing, bluegrass fusion.
1997, formed “Lonesome and Blue” with mandolinist Pooh Stevenson.

Be Good Tanyas, The

Posted on November 2, 2013December 20, 2014 by WR

THE BE GOOD TANYAS

From Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Band members met while working as tree planters in BC’s Kootenay Mountains. Formed the band in 1999.
Members: Frazey Ford, Trish Klein, and Samantha Parton.
Blend bluegrass with folk, jazz, gospel. Has been described as “beguiling, haunting, rustic, ambient, hobo-erotica, and goth-folk.”
2001, released first album Blue Horse on Nettwerk Records.
2003, released Chinatown album (Nettwerk).
2006, released Hello Love album (Nettwerk).
2012, released Collection album (Nettwerk).

Beachley, Darren

Posted on November 3, 2013January 22, 2024 by WR

DARREN BEACHLEY

From Brunswick, Maryland.
1988, first pro band: South Central Bluegrass
1991, played Dobro™ with Bill Harrell and the Virginians.
1998, joined Norman Wright’s band The Travelers.
2003, formed his own band called The Maryland Line.
2005, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver. Sang lead and tenor vocals, played bass and guitar. Appears on several award-winning albums including “Help is on the Way,” “More Behind the Picture than the Wall,” and “Lonely Street.”
2006, also worked with former Country Gentleman Bill Yates in a group called Bill Yates & Friends, which became The Country Gentlemen Tribute Band.
2008, left DL&Q to begin a solo career. Released Sad Songs & Sunday Mornings album (no label).
2009,formed his band The Legends of the Potomac with Mike Auldridge (Dobro™), Tom Gray (bass), Norman Wright (mandolin) and Mark Delaney (fiddle)
2010, released Take Off (Patuxent Records).
2010, teamed up with former Quicksilver bandmate Barry Scott to form the Beachley and Scott Band.
2011, after the departure of Barry Scott, the band was reorganized as Heart Town with Greg Luck, Tim Laughlin, Shayne Bartley and Jason Leek.
2012, took a management position at the Frederick Memorial Hospital in Brunswick, MD. Also formed a band with Shayne Bartley, Greg Luck, Elmer Burchett and Marshall Wilborn.
2016, formed a band called The Railroaders with Shayne Bartley (guitar), Greg Luck (mandolin) and David Carroll (banjo).
2021, released The Road Not Taken album (Turnberry).

Beacon Hillbillies, The

Posted on November 3, 2013 by WR

THE BEACON HILLBILLIES

From Boston, Massachusetts.
A string band formed in 1994 by mandolinist Jim (Jimmy) Ryan. Also in the band: John McGann (winner of the 1985 Winfield mandolin championship) and Jim Whitney (bass.)
The “original” Beacon Hillbillies formed in 1896 in Duffield, West Virginia. Ryan’s grandfather was leader of that band.
Ryan was also in a band called Blood Oranges, a fusion of bluegrass and rock. He is also a solo artist, with several albums to his credit.
Disbanded in 1996. They recorded three albums.
2012, McGann died of kidney failure. He was a faculty member at the Berklee College of Music.

Bearfoot

Posted on November 3, 2013July 1, 2020 by WR

BEARFOOT

From Anchorage, Alaska.
2000, formed by a group of young music camp counselors who were drawn to bluegrass and traditional music. For several years they conducted music camps for bluegrass festivals across the U.S.
Original members: Kate Hamre (bass), Mike Mickelson (guitar), Jason Norris (mandolin), Annalisa Tornfelt (fiddle), Angela Oudean (fiddle)
2001, entered and won the Telluride band competition.
2002, released first album Only Time Knows (no label) selling more than 7000 copies the first year.
2006, released Follow Me album (Alliance Records) featuring 8 original songs written by Tornfelt.
2008, Odessa Jorgensen (fiddle) replaced Annalisa Tornfelt.
2009, released Doors & Windows album (Alliance Records).
2010, Hamre left the band, as did Mickelson. Hamre was replaced briefly by Sam Grisman, son of David Grisman.
2011, after numerous personnel changes, the band relocated to Nashville with a new lineup including Oudean (fiddle), Todd Grebe (guitar), P.J. George (bass) and Nora Jane Struthers (guitar, vocals).
2011, released American Story (Alliance Records).

Beazley, Janet

Posted on November 3, 2013January 7, 2015 by WR

JANET BEAZLEY

From San Juan Capistrano, California. Originally from Bakersfield.
Plays banjo with Chris Stuart and Backcountry and performs in a duo with Chris Stuart (Stuart and Beazley).
Formerly played banjo with Copperline (with Eric Uglum).
Has a Ph.D in early music performance. She teaches music history and music appreciation at UC Irvine, USC’s Thornton School of Music and UC Riverside.
Also plays flute, recorder, and historic guitars.
2005, released first solo project 5 South (Backcountry Music).
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Bell, Delia

Posted on November 3, 2013April 18, 2014 by WR

DELIA BELL (See BILL GRANT AND DELIA BELL)

Benford, Mac (and the Woodshed All-Stars)

Posted on November 3, 2013May 24, 2020 by WR

MAC BENFORD (AND THE WOODSHED ALL-STARS)

From Ithica, New York.
A banjo player who played in the traditional clawhammer style.
1967, moved to San Francisco and founded Dr. Humbead’s New Tranquility Stringband and Medicine Show.
1972, moved back to New York and founded the Highwoods String Band.
1979, formed a new band called Backwoods.
1990, formed the Woodshed Allstars, performing traditional string-band music with a driving bluegrassy style.
1996, released Willow album (Rounder Records).
Also played with a group called Noah’s Arkestra, so called because there are two of every instrument in the band.
2020, died at the age of 79.

Bennett, Richard

Posted on November 3, 2013September 13, 2024 by WR

RICHARD BENNETT

From Johnson City, Tennessee.
Age 11, played guitar on the Martha White Caravan for the Rose Brothers. Age 15, played guitar with fiddler Benny Sims. Then worked with The Toe River Boys, the Webb Brothers, and Mousie Creek (Gatlinburg, TN).
1983-1990, worked at Dollywood theme park.
1990-95, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South.
1995, joined Lou Reid and Carolina
1996, joined Tim White’s group, “The Beagles.”
1996, recorded first solo project “Walking Down the Line” on Rebel Records.
1998, formed a group called Blue Towne.
1998, released Long Lonesome Time album (Rebel Records.)
1999, released “Richard Bennett and Blue Towne” album on Rebel Records.
1999, formed group “Auldridge, Bennett and Gaudreau” with Mike Auldridge and Jimmy Gaudreau.
2004, worked with Dean Osborne.
2010, formed a band called Rigsby, Leadbetter and Bennett with Don Rigsby, Phil and Matt Leadbetter.
2012, released Last Train From Poor Valley album (Lonesome Day Records).
2014, released In the Wind Somewhere album (Lonesome Day Records.)
2019, released an EP album Land and Harbor (Bonfire) with Shawn Lane.

Benson, Kristin Scott

Posted on November 3, 2013February 2, 2024 by WR

KRISTIN SCOTT BENSON

From Union, South Carolina. Lives in Boiling Springs, SC with her husband Wayne (of IIIrd Tyme Out)
Began playing mandolin at age 5, learned banjo at age 13.
1995-1999, played banjo with the Larry Stephenson Band while attending Belmont University.
2000, joined Sally Jones and the Sidewinders.
2002, released first solo album of banjo instrumentals, Straight Paths (Pinecastle).
2002, joined Honi Deaton and Dream.
2004, joined Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time.
2006, left Cordle’s band to re-join the Larry Stephenson Band. She also gave birth to her first child.
2008, joined the Grascals.
2008, released second solo album Second Season (Pinecastle).
2016, released third solo album Stringworks (Mountain Home).
2018, won the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass.
2019, won her fifth IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year (also won in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011).
2022, formed a duo called “Benson” with her husband mandolinist Wayne Benson.
2024, was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.

Benson, Wayne

Posted on November 3, 2013February 18, 2022 by WR

WAYNE BENSON

From Charlotte, NC. Lives in Boiling Springs, SC. He is married to Kristin Scott Benson.
Full name: John Wayne Benson.
Started playing mandolin at age 15.
1989, formed “Livewire” with Scott Vestal, Ernie Sykes and Robert Hale.
1993, joined IIIrd Tyme Out.
2003, released solo project An Instrumental Anthology (Pinecastle).
2003, Gibson issued “Wayne Benson Signature” model mandolin.
2004, left IIIrd Tyme Out to join the John Cowan Band.
2007, returned to Third Tyme Out.
2013, recorded an album of mandolin duets with Alan Bibey, Mandolin Chronicles.
2022, formed a duo called “Benson” with his wife Kristin Scott Benson.

Bentley, Carl

Posted on January 7, 2023 by WR

CARL BENTLEY

Originally from McDowell, Ky. Currently lives in Indiana.
Started singing in church at age 5. Learned guitar and wrote first song at age 16.
Early days: played in several country bands including Carl Bentley and Blue Eagle Band and the Southern Winds Band.
2003, joined a band called Thousand Pounds Of Bluegrass.
2004, joined The Indiana Boys.
2005, formed his own group Carl Bentley & The Eagle Creek Band, opening for many bluegrass acts such as Larry Sparks, Ralph Stanley II, James King, Melvin Goins and others.
2016-2022, took a break from music to coach travel baseball. He also filled in for several bands including Brook Steele and Endless Highway and Kim Robins and 40 Years Late.
2022, returned to music by recording a self-titled album to be released in 2023.

Bentley, Dierks

Posted on November 3, 2013December 4, 2014 by WR

DIERKS BENTLEY

From Phoenix Arizona. Lives in Nashville.
2003, signed with Capitol Records. launching a very successful country music career.
2004, his first two albums went platinum (two million copies sold).
Hit singles include: “What Was I Thinkin'”, as well as “Come a Little Closer”, “Settle for a Slowdown”, “Every Mile a Memory”, “Free and Easy (Down the Road I Go)”, “Feel That Fire” and “Sideways.”
2010, released Up on the Ridge album, a tribute to his bluegrass roots with Chris Thile and the Punch Brothers, Sam Bush, Bryan Sutton, the Del McCoury Band, Tim O’Brien and other well known bluegrass artists and sidemen.
Bentley says, “I fell in love with bluegrass music the first time I walked into the Station Inn with a fake ID at 19 years old. … After that I never missed a Tuesday night there in almost 8 years. Bluegrass music is my foundation.”

Bergstrom, Totte

Posted on November 3, 2013December 20, 2014 by WR

TOTTE BERGSTROM

From Sweden.
Pronounced “Totty.”
1969, performed with a group called Country Express.
1970’s, had a bluegrass group called The New Strangers.
Was influenced by guitarist Clarence White in Sweden in 1973. Began using the Parsons-White stringbender (which White was using on his electric guitar) and formed a country-rock band called Moonshine
Prmarily a vocalist, he also performs on guitar, banjo, mandolin, harmonica, Dobro™, autoharp and bass.
1996-1997, toured and recorded with Bluegrass Etc.
1996, released album Totte Bergstrom.
With a crooner’s voice and a penchant for love songs, he says he’s doing his part to put a little more “romance” in bluegrass music.

Berline, Byron

Posted on November 3, 2013October 17, 2022 by WR

BYRON BERLINE

From Caldwell, Kansas. Currently lives in Guthrie, Oklahoma.
Three-time national fiddle champion (the Weiser Old Time Fiddle Championships).
Began playing fiddle at age 5.
Attended the University of Oklahoma on an athletic scholarship. Played football for coach Bud Wilkinson during his freshman and sophomore years. Switched to track for his junior and senior years, setting school records in the javelin throw.
While at OU, he met the Dillards (on Nov. 22, 1963—the day John Kennedy was assassinated) who were performing on campus. This was his first exposure to bluegrass music. After a short jam session in the parking lot, they asked him to record with them. The resulting album (called “Pickin’ and Fiddlin'”) was released on Electra Records in 1964, while Byron was still in college.
1967, joined Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys. He played fiddle on the original recording of “Gold Rush” which he co-wrote with Monroe.
1969, after moving to Los Angeles, joined the Dillard and Clark Expedition with Doug Dillard and Gene Clark (later called the Dillard Expedition) and the Flying Burrito Brothers. He also began doing recording sessions for movies, TV shows and albums by many popular artists including the Byrds, the Rolling Stones, Stephen Stills, the Eagles, Mason Williams and Linda Rondstadt.
1972, formed the Country Gazette (which spun off of the Flying Burrito Brothers) with Roger Bush (bass), Alan Munde (banjo) and Kenny Wertz (guitar).
1977, formed Byron Berline and Sundance. Vince Gill (age 19) was a member of this band. Recorded several albums including Live at McCabe’s (Tacoma).
1978, formed the L.A. Fiddle Band with fiddlers Bruce Johnson and Dennis Fetchet.
1980, formed BCH (Berline, Dan Crary, John Hickman).
1985, worked with the Doo Wah Riders, an LA-based country band.
1990, formed California (BCH plus Steve Spurgin and John Moore.)
While in L.A., he performed on numerous movie soundtracks including “Urban Cowboy”, “Back to the Future III”, and “The Rose.” He had a bit part in the movie “Basic Instinct” starring Sharon Stone.
He appeared in one episode of the original TV series “Star Trek.” Played a crew member of the Starship Enterprise who traveled back in time and found himself a violinist in a classical string quartet.
1994, appeared on the TV show “Evening Shade.”
1995, moved from Los Angeles to Guthrie, Oklahoma where he opened a music store called Byron’s Double Stop Fiddle Shop and Concert Hall.
1996, his album Fiddle and a Song (Sugar Hill) was nominated for a Grammy Award. The album featured guest performances by Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs (together), Vince Gill, Mason Williams, others.
1997, formed The Byron Berline Band which features both bluegrass and western swing. Performs regularly at the Fiddle Shop Concert Hall in Guthrie.
Hosts the annual International Bluegrass Music Festival in Guthrie, featuring bands from all over the world.
2003, re-united with California to make several appearances and to record a new album.
2005. toured China with his band.
2012, received IBMA’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
2013, was inducted into the National Fiddlers Hall of Fame.
2013, his autobiography Byron Berline: Diary of a Fiddler was released.
2019, his Double Stop Fiddle Shop and Concert Hall in Guthrie, OK burned to the ground, destroying his inventory of instruments and memorabilia. He was able to open a new shop and concert hall in a new building across the street from the old one.
2021, died at the age of 77. He was unable to recover from a series of strokes.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Dad’s Favorites (Rounder, 1987)
Jumpin the Strings (Sugar Hill, 1992)
Outrageous (Sugar Hill, 1993)
Double Trouble (Sugar Hill, 1995) Fiddle/banjo duets with banjo player John Hickman.
Fiddle & A Song (Sugar Hill, 1995) Includes guest appearances by Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, Vince Gill, other artists.

Berrier, Barry

Posted on November 3, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

BARRY BERRIER

From Mt. Airy, North Carolina.
First band: “Interstate Exchange” with friends Sammy Shelor and Alan Bibey.
Early 80’s, formed “Summer Wages” with Craig Smith.
After Summer Wages, worked with the Easter Brothers and the Bluegrass Cardinals (1989-90).
1991, joined the Lost and Found as guitarist and lead singer.
1995, recorded first solo album First Time With Feeling (Pinecastle Records.)
2001, left the road to form his own business, a body shop in Mt. Airy, NC.
2004-5, worked with Continental Divide.
2005-6,worked with the Lonesome River Band.
2007, retired from music.

Berry, Heather (Mabe)

Posted on November 3, 2013April 30, 2019 by WR

HEATHER BERRY (THE HEATHER BERRY AND TONY MABE SHOW)

From Sherando, Virginia (Shenandoah Valley).
Began singing in church at age 5.
First instrument: autoharp. Performed with the Lewis Family as a child.
Age 13, formed her first band.
2005, won the autoharp championship at the Maury River (VA) Fiddlers Convention.
2005, formed a new band called Dominion Grass at the age of 15.
2006, age 16, signed with Blue Circle Records (Tom T. and Dixie Hall’s label) and released “To a Dove” and “Before Bluegrass.”
2011, teamed up with future husband Tony Mabe to form “The Heather and Tony Show.” Tony is a mult-instrumentalist (primarily banjo) who formerly worked with James King, Danny Paisley, Jeannette Williams and several other bands.
2011, released Have A Merry Berry Christmas for the holiday season (Mountain Fever).
2012, released Heather Berry & Tony Mabe Show (no label).
2014, left the bluegrass circuit to perform gospel music.
2018, signed with Clay Hess’ 7Flat Record label.
2019, Heather and Tony joined Junior Sisk’s touring band.

Berry, John

Posted on May 16, 2015 by WR

JOHN BERRY

From Nashville, Tennessee. He was born in South Carolina and raised in Georgia.
1992-1995, had several hit country records including ” Your Love Amazes Me,” “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye” and “She’s Taken a Shine” (Capitol Records).
2015, released his first bluegrass recording “I’m Blended Blue” (JB Music).

Berry, Hunter

Posted on November 3, 2013June 19, 2024 by WR

HUNTER BERRY

From Elizabethton, Tennessee.
Learned fiddle at age 4. Taught by Benny Sims and David Yates.
2001, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver at age 17. He was invited to join when he was in the 8th grade but waited until he had his high school diploma. He stayed with Doyle for 9 months.
2002, joined Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.
He has been a final nominee for the IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year award, and has been a multiple winner of the SPBGMA Fiddle Player of the Year award.
2007, released solo project “Wow, Baby.”
2010, married Sally Sandker, Rhonda Vincent’s daughter.
2022, left Rhonda Vincent’s band to pursue other musical opportunities.
2023, joined the Little Roy and Lizzie Show.

Best, Carroll

Posted on November 3, 2013May 11, 2015 by WR

CARROLL BEST

From Haywood County, North Carolina
One of the earliest “melodic” or “chromatic” style banjo players, who began playing fiddle tunes note-for-note on the banjo in the 1940’s. He influenced such popularizers of the style as Bobby Thompson, Eric Weissberg and Bill Keith.
Was a farmer most of his life, but played banjo professionally with the Morris Brothers in the 1950’s.
1990, received the Lunsford Award at the Bascom Lamar Lunsford Festival at Mars Hill College.
1990, was a featured performer on the “Masters of the Banjo” tour organized by the National Council for the Traditional Arts.
1994, received the North Carolina Heritage Award
Died in 1995 at the age of 64. He was shot dead by his brother Sam.
2001, Copper Creek Records released an album of his banjo tunes: Say Old Man Can You Play the Banjo.

Bibelhauser, Aaron

Posted on July 6, 2019August 25, 2022 by WR

AARON BIBELHAUSER (THE BIBELHAUSER BROTHERS)

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Name is pronounced “Bee-bull-how-zer.”
A singer/songwriter/guitarist who has written songs recorded by Balsam Range, Del McCoury, Michael Cleveland, Dale Ann Bradley and other bluegrass artists.
He and his twin brother Adam have a Kentucky band called Relic.
He is a past winner of the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest (at Merlefest).
2015, released solo project Somewhere in Between (no label).
2017, released Southwind album (no label).
2019, appeared in the documentary film Flamekeeper: The Michael Cleveland Story (Validate Films).
2019, released Wyoming Child album (no label) a tribute to a friend and fellow songwriter Mickey Clark, who died of cancer.
2019, released Loving You Again album (no label) with his band Relic.
2019, began performing with a band called Wolfpen Branch.
2022, he and his twin brother Adam released new music as The Bibelhauser Brothers.

Bibey, Alan

Posted on November 3, 2013March 15, 2023 by WR

ALAN BIBEY (AND GRASSTOWNE)

Mandolin player from North Carolina.
1982, won the mandolin championship at the World’s Fair in Knoxville.
1983, played with Wes Golding’s band Sure Fire.
1985, formed The New Quicksilver with Terry Baucom, Randy Graham and Jimmy Haley.
1990, was a founding member of IIIrd Tyme Out
1997, formed BlueRidge with former members of The New Quicksilver (Baucom, Haley & Graham).
Owns a 1923 Lloyd Loar Gibson F-5 mandolin that was signed by Loar on the same date as the one owned and played by Bill Monroe.
2002, released a solo project In the Blue Room (Sugar Hill).
2006, formed Grasstowne with Phil Leadbetter, Steve Gulley and Jason Davis. After several personnel changes, the group became known as Alan Bibey and Grasstowne.
2013, released an album of mandolin duets with Wayne Benson called Mandolin Chronicles (Pinecastle).
2020, 2019, won the IBMA Award for Mandolin Player of the Year.
2020, won the IBMA Award for Gospel Recording of the Year (for “Gonna Rise and Shine” (Mountain Fever)
2023, joined Balsam Range, playing mandolin.
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Big Country Bluegrass

Posted on November 3, 2013August 3, 2023 by WR

BIG COUNTRY BLUEGRASS

From Independence, Virginia.
Formed by Tommy and Teresa Sells in 1987.
Perform what some call “Galax” or “Mt. Airy” bluegrass: a very hard core traditional sound.
James King is a former member of this band.
Their name came from the Jimmy Martin instrumental “Big Country” (performed by J.D. Crowe on banjo). That was the first song recorded by the band in 1989.
1999, won a contest sponsored by Martha White flour on the occasion of their 100th anniversary for having the best rendition of the Martha White Theme. They got to perform it live on the Grand Ole Opry.
2013 lineup: Tommy and Teresa Sells (mandolin/guitar), Eddie Gill (guitar, lead vocals), Lynwood Lunsford (banjo), Tony King (bass), Tim Laughlin (fiddle).
2016, Lunsford (banjo) left the band after 9 years and was replaced by John Treadway.
2023, Daniel Martin (banjo) joined the band.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Big Country Bluegrass (2005, Hay Holler)
Open for Business (2008, Mountain Roads).
The Boys in Hats & Ties (2011, Rebel Records).
Memories of the Past (2013, Rebel Records).
Country Livin (2015, Rebel Records)
Mountains, Mamas and Memories (2019, Rebel Records)

Big Hillbilly Bluegrass

Posted on November 3, 2013November 29, 2021 by WR

BIG HILLBILLY BLUEGRASS

From the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area.
Formed by guitarist Bob Perilla. Band has included Mike Munford (banjo) and Tad Marks (fiddle).
For years, they have performed at a club in Adams Morgan (a D.C. suburb) every Wednesday night.
Appeared in the Chris Rock movie “Head of State.”
Have made multiple Kennedy Center appearances.
Have made several tours overseas with the State Department.

Bills, The

Posted on November 3, 2013December 20, 2014 by WR

THE BILLS

From Victoria, B.C., Canada
Formed in 1996 as the Bill Hilly Band.
Original members Marc Atkinson and Scott White (guitar, mandolin, fiddle) had formerly played jazz and rock. Added Chris Frye (guitar) and Glen Manders bass) to the band and began performing folk and acoustic music in various live music clubs around Victoria.
2000, added Adrian Dolan (fiddle, accordian, piano). Released first album.
2001, won Juno award (Canadian Grammy).
2003, added fiddler Jeremy Penner. Recorded “Let Em Run” video, with aiplay on Canadian CMT. Shortened the name of the band to “The Bills.”
2004, released Let Em Run album (Red House Records.)
2012, released Yes Please album (Red House).

Biscuit Burners, The

Posted on November 3, 2013April 8, 2020 by WR

THE BISCUIT BURNERS

From Asheville,North Carolina.
Formed in 2002 by Lizzie Hamilton (fiddle), Shannon Whitworth (guitar), Rocky Whittington (banjo) and Mary Lucey (bass). Hamilton had previously worked with the Steep Canyon Rangers.
Perform what they call “fiery mountain music.” A blend of old time, bluegrass and world music.
Started out as an all female-band, which explains the name … four women who were so engrossed in playing music that they forgot what was on the stove.
2004, released first album Fiery Mountain Music (no label).
2005, lineup included Lucey, Whitworth plus new members Bill Cardine (resophonic guitar), and Dan Bletz (guitar). Cardine and Lucey are married.
Cardine plays a 22-string resophonic guitar in the band (a cross between a Dobro™ and a sitar.) He spent time in India, studying music there.
The group conducts a “roots music in the schools” program to introduce elementary school children to appalachian, old-time, bluegrass and world music.
2007, lineup included Lucey, Cardine, Bletz with new members Odessa Jorgensen (fiddle) and Wes Corbett (banjo).
2007, Mary Lucey also worked with Uncle Earl on their “Waterloo, Tennessee” album and tour.
2008, released Take Me Home album (no label).

Bishop, Lawrence

Posted on November 3, 2013February 26, 2015 by WR

LAWRENCE BISHOP

From Monroe, Ohio.
He is the founding pastor of the Solid Rock Church in Monroe.
He played mandolin and wrote numerous bluegrass/country gospel songs.
He recorded six bluegrass albums with his band and many top bluegrass musicians including Tom Adams, Adam Steffey, Clay Hess and Michael Cleveland.
He also breeded and sold champion quarter horses. Before founding his church, he was a quarter horse auctioneer.
2007, the Lawrence Bishop Band won the ICM Award for Inspirational Bluegrass Artist of the Year.
2010, died at the age of 69.

Black Mountain Bluegrass Boys

Posted on November 3, 2014 by WR

THE BLACK MOUNTAIN BLUEGRASS BOYS

From Pocahontas County, West Virginia.
Formed in 1969 by Richard Hefner (banjo), Bill Hefner (guitar/mandolin), Harley Carpenter (guitar), Glen Irvine (mandolin) and Dwight Diller (bass).
They took their name from Black Mountain, near their home in WV.
For five years the band hosted a weekly radio program on WVMR in Richwood, West Virginia.
1973, recorded “Million Lonely Days” album (Lark Records).
1974, band changes: Dick Kimmel joined the band, playing mandolin. Wayne Erbson joined, playing fiddle.
1974, recorded “Talk of the County” album (Lark Records).
1998, Harley Carpenter passed away.
1999-present band lineup: Richard Hefner (banjo), Mike Smith (bass), Chris Nickell (guitar), Rick Carpenter (mandolin). Rick Carpenter is the son of former band member Harley Carpenter.
2001, released “Live at Midnight” (Pocahontas Communications).
2014, played Carnegie Hall.

Blackwell, Curtis (and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys)

Posted on November 3, 2013April 8, 2022 by WR

CURTIS BLACKWELL AND THE DIXIE BLUEGRASS BOYS

From Long Creek, South Carolina.
Formed in 1960 when seventeen-year-old guitarist/singer Curtis Blackwell with his brother Haskell (bass) and Junior Crowe (banjo; father of The Crowe Brothers). They won a talent competition sponsored by WNEG in Toccoa, Georgia. The prize was a performance on The Grand Ole Opry.
1964, band included Sam Cobb (bass) Larry Jefferson (mandolin), Martin Beckman (guitar), Al Osteen (banjo), and Randall Collins (fiddle).
1965, won first place at Asheville’s Bascom Lamar Lunsford’s Mountain Dance and Folk Festival.
1970, won first place in the band contest at Union Grove Fiddler’s Convention.
During the mid 70’s, Curtis Blackwell and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys regrouped with South Carolina fiddler Verner Foster joining the band and Curtis’s son Terry Blackwell (mandolin) and Tom Roach (banjo). Wallace Crowe of the Crowe Brothers also worked with them on occasion.
2010 lineup: Curtis Blackwell (guitar), Sam Cobb (bass), Vic Blackwell (mandolin), Charles Wood (banjo), and Chuck Nation (fiddle).

Bladerunners, The

Posted on November 3, 2013April 14, 2017 by WR

THE BLADERUNNERS

From Riverside County, California.
Formed in 1998.
1999, released Introducing the BladeRunners album (no label)
2000, represented Southern California in the Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown in Louisville.
Original members: Dave Dickey III (mandolin), Billy Reid (guitar) Sandy MacLean (guitar) and Dave Brown (bass.)
2006, the group disbanded but re-formed a few years later with Dickey III (mandolin), John Corzine (guitar/lead vocals), Patrick Sauber (banjo) and Peggy Corzine (bass).
2013, released “Another Day” album (no label).

Blake, Greg

Posted on September 6, 2015March 3, 2023 by WR

GREG BLAKE

From Kansas City, Missouri. He has also has lived in Colorado, West Virgina, South Carolina.
A singer and guitarist who has performed with numerous bands over the years including Special Consensus and Jeff Scroggins and Colorado.
He attended Bible College and Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri and played guitar for 15 years with the Bluegrass Missourians. He also traveled for three years with the Harvest Quartet, a gospel group.
He is a past winner of the Kansas State flatpick guitar championship.
2007, moved to Conifer, Colorado and served as pastor of the Elk Creek Community Church. He also formed his own band called Mountain Holler and also worked with a group called Troublesome Gulch.
2011, joined Jeff Scroggins and Colorado.
2013, formed a duo with K.C. Groves (“Blake and Groves”), formerly with Uncle Earl.
2015, released first solo project “Songs of Heart and Home” (no label).
2017, after moving back to Kansas City, he formed a new band called Real Country. That band eventually became Greg Blake and Hometown.
2021, joined Special Consensus, singing lead and playing guitar. He continues to have a solo career and play with his Hometown band.
2022, Greg Blake and Hometown released “The View from Home” album (Mountain Holler).

Blake, Norman

Posted on November 3, 2013September 21, 2021 by WR

NORMAN BLAKE

From Chattanooga, Tennessee but grew up in Sulphur Springs and Rising Fawn, Georgia.
Best known as a guitarist and mandolinist. He plays all the bluegrass instruments.
Began performing in the 1950’s with a group called “The Dixie Drifters.”
Early 60’s, worked with Hylo Brown on WWVA, Wheeling, West Virginia.
A Nashville studio musician during the 1960’s and 1970’s. He has worked with many artists including Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson, Steve Earle and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.
1969-1970, was a regular on the Johnny Cash TV show.
Toured with John Hartford for two years.
1975, married Nancy, a classical celloist from Independence, Missouri.
1976, recorded Whiskey Before Breakfast album (Rounder).
1978, with wife Nancy formed the Rising Fawn String Ensemble, performing what he calls “Chamber Bluegrass.”
1987, recorded Blake & Rice (Rounder), the first of two duet albums with guitarist Tony Rice.
2000, appeared on the soundtrack of the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou.”
2001-2, toured with the “Down from the Mountain” tour.
2011, released his 38th album, Green Light On The Southern (Plectraphone).
2012, suffered a mild stroke.
2015, released his 39th album Wood, Wire & Words (Plectraphone).j
2017, was presented with a “Distinguished Achievement Award” by the IBMA.
2021, released “Day by Day” album (Smithsonian-Folkways)

Blankenship, Ashley (and Shades of Blue)

Posted on November 3, 2013December 28, 2014 by WR

ASHLEY BLANKENSHIP (AND BLADES OF BLUE)

From Floyd, Virginia
2005, joined a local band called Statement, singing lead vocals.
2010, formed new band Blades of Blue.
2011, released first album Ashlee Blankenship & Blades of Blue (Mountain Fever).

Blaylock, Audie (and Redline)

Posted on November 3, 2013January 14, 2024 by WR

AUDIE BLAYLOCK AND REDLINE

- Born in El Paso, Texas; grew up in Lansing, Michigan. Lives in Garrett, Indiana.
- 1983, first pro gig: playing mandolin with Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
- 1990, worked with the late Red Allen (until his death in 1993).
- 1993, a short stint with the Lynn Morris Band.
- 1997, worked with Harley Allen.
- 1999-2003, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, playing guitar.
- 2001, recorded solo album “Trains Are the Only Way to Fly.”
- 2004, formed his own band Redline.
- 2004, was featured on “Tribute to Jimmy Martin” CD.
- 2006, teamed up with fiddler Michael Cleveland to form “Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper featuring Audie Blaylock.”
- 2007, left Michael Cleveland’s band to re-organize his band Redline.
- 2009, released Audie Blaylock & Redline album (Rural Rhythm).
- 2010, released Cryin’ Heart Blues album (Rural Rhythm).
- 2011, released I’m Going Back to Old Kentucky: A Bill Monroe Celebration album (Rural Rhythm).
- 2012, released Hard Country album (Rural Rhythm).
- 2016, released The Road That Winds album (Patuxent).
- 2019, released Originalist album (615 Hideaway). Redline included Evan Ward (banjo), Reed Jones (bass), and Mason Wright (fiddle.)
- 2023, died at the age of 61.

Blind Corn Liquor Pickers, The

Posted on November 3, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

THE BLIND CORN LIQUOR PICKERS

From Lexington, Kentucky.
A “slam-grass” band featuring Joel Serdenis (mandolin), Todd Anderson (bass), Tom Fassas (guitar), Travis Young (banjo).
Motto: “In Jug We Trust.”
Combine elements of rock, rockabilly, jazz and bluegrass.
Banjo player Travis Young lived in Japan, taught English there, works as a translator.
Guitarist Fassas built a geodesic dome “log house” and has a petroleum services business.
2005, released Anywhere Else? album, produced by Bill Vorndick.

Blinky Moon Boys, The

Posted on November 3, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

THE BLINKY MOON BOYS

From Virginia, Tennessee and Georgia (band members commute to performances).
Formed in 1989 at the Winterhawk Bluegrass Festival (New York). Perform annually at the Galax Old Time Fiddler’s Convention (Virginia).
According to the band, the name comes from a joke about the Blinky Moon Tourist Court in Williamsburg, Kentucky.
Band members: Lynn Dugger (banjo), Jeff Huss (guitar), Darin Lawrence (mandolin), Bill Ledbetter (bass), Tom Brantley (fiddle).
Brantley is also a member of the gospel group New Road.
2004, released first album Moonlite Theatre (Hay Holler).

Block, Ron

Posted on November 3, 2013February 10, 2019 by WR

RON BLOCK

From Torrance, California. Lives in Nashville
His father owned a music store (Hogan’s Music) in Southern California. He grew up literally surrounded by musical instruments.
Began playing guitar at age 11; banjo at age 13.
1983-1985, played with a Southern California band called Yankee Bluegrass.
1985-1989, was a member of Weary Hearts with Chris Jones, Butch Baldassari and Eric Uglum.
1991, worked with the Lynn Morris Band.
1992, joined Alison Krauss and Union Station, playing banjo and guitar. Regarded the “spiritual touchstone” of the group because of his deep religious faith.
Has written songs that have been recorded by Alison Krauss, Randy Travis, Rhonda Vincent, the Cox Family, Dan Tyminski, many others.
2000, appeared and performed in the movie and soundtrack “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”
2001, released solo album of original gospel music, Faraway Land (Rounder).
2004, delivered the keynote address at the IBMA World of Bluegrass business conference in Louisville.
2005, released second solo album Doorway (Rounder).
2013, released album Walking Song (Rounder).
2015, released Hogan’s House of Music album (no label), named after his father’s music store in southern California.

Blue and Lonesome

Posted on November 3, 2013 by WR

BLUE AND LONESOME

From the San Francisco Bay area (Petaluma, CA).
A traditional band formed in 2007 by mandolin player Ed Neff. Also includes Mike Wilhoyte (guitar). Larry Cohea (bass), Paul Shelasky (fiddle) and Jeff King (banjo).
Band members are veteran Bay Area bluegrass musicians, having worked with such bands as High Country, The Good Old Persons, David Grisman, the Vern Williams Band and many others.

Bluegrass 45, The

Posted on November 3, 2013November 25, 2019 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS 45

From Kobe, Japan
A legendary band from Japan that formed in 1967 and made its American debut in 1971 at Bill Monroe’s Beanblossom Festival.
Also includes the Watanabe Brothers (Toshio and Saburo), Japan’s first bluegrass festival promoters. They also publish the magazine “Moonshiner,” and started Red Clay Records in Japan. Saburo was elected to the IBMA Board of Directors in 1995.
The name comes from “Train 45,” “Colt 45,” and the year 1945 when bluegrass music was born.
Appeared in the movie “Bluegrass—Country Soul,” featuring artists appearing at Carlton Haney’s Camp Springs (NC) festival.
2017, past members of the band celebrated their 50th anniversary with an appearance at the IBMA’s Wide Open Bluegrass festival and other venues in the USA.
2019, founding member and banjo player Saburo “Sab” Watanabe died at the age of 69.

Bluegrass Band, The

Posted on November 3, 2013February 28, 2024 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS BAND

Formed originally in 1972 by Joseph “Butch” Robins, a former member of Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys (banjo). Other members: Alan O”Bryant (guitar), Mike Compton (mandolin), Blaine Sprouse (fiddle), David Sebring (bass) and Ed Dye (bass.) They released one album “Another Saturday Night” on Voyager Records.
1973, disbanded but Robins re-assembled a new version of the band 13 years later (1989) with Dudley Connell, Larry Stephenson, Ronnie and Rickie Simpkins, Wayne Henderson and several other musicians. They recorded four albums of bluegrass standards and gospel music, the first recordings for Kerry Hay’s “Hay Holler” record label which at the time sold their albums primarily by mail order on television info-mercials.

Bluegrass Album Band, The

Posted on November 3, 2013December 28, 2014 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS ALBUM BAND

A recording band featuring Tony Rice, guitar; J.D. Crowe, banjo; Doyle Lawson, mandolin; Bobby Hicks, fiddle; Todd Phillips, bass; Jerry Douglas, Dobro™ (third album on); Vassar Clements, fiddle (fifth album on).
1981, recorded first of six albums for Rounder Records, The Bluegrass Album.
1982, released The Bluegrass Album, Volume 2.
1983, released The Bluegrass Album, Volume 3: California Connection.
1985, released The Bluegrass Album, Volume 4.
1990, released The Bluegrass Album, Volume 5.
1990, won IBMA award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
1996, released The Bluegrass Album, Volume 6: Bluegrass Instrumentals.
1997, won IBMA award for Instrumental Album of the Year (for The Bluegrass Album, Volume 6: Bluegrass Instrumentals)
2003, re-united for J.D. Crowe’s induction into the IBMA’s Hall of Honor and performed several reunion concerts with Josh Williams or Ricky Wasson on lead vocals.

Bluegrass Alliance, The

Posted on November 3, 2013December 14, 2018 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS ALLIANCE

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Formed in 1968 by Dan Crary (guitar), Wayne Stewart (mandolin), Buddy Spurlock (banjo), Lonnie Peerce (fiddle) and Harry Shealor (bass, AKA Ebo Walker). Danny Jones (mandolin) was also an early member of this band. Peerce eventually became the leader of the band.
Former members of the band: Sam Bush (mandolin), Tony Rice (guitar), Vince Gill (guitar), Marshall Billingsley (bass), Al White (mandolin), Bill Millet (banjo), Courtney Johnson (banjo) and Curtis Burch (guitar).
They were the first group to use the term “newgrass.” (The New Grass Revival emerged from this band in 1971.)
1969, released self-titled album (American Heritage).
1970, released “Newgrass” album (American Heritage).
1975, released “Kentucky Blue” album (American Heritage).
Broke up for good in 1978.
1996, Lonnie Peerce died at age 73.
1998, Barry Palmer, a banjo-player and long-time fan of the BG Alliance, formed a new group using the same name in Atlanta, Georgia. Peerce had given Barry the rights to the name before he died. This group recorded an album called “Re-Alliance” in 2001.

Bluegrass Brothers, The

Posted on November 3, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS BROTHERS

From the Salem/Roanoke, Virginia area.
Formed in 1992 by brothers Robert (banjo) and Victor Dowdy (bass). They were later joined by Victor’s sons Steven (guitar) and Donald (Dobro™), adding another set of brothers to the band.
2004, released The Church of Yesterday album on Hay Holler Records.
2014, released Generations album on Mountain Fever Records.
2018, Victor Dowdy retired from the band.
2019, Steven and Donald formed a new band called The Dowdy Brothers.

Bluegrass Cardinals, The

Posted on November 3, 2013January 28, 2022 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS CARDINALS (See also DAVID PARMLEY)

Originally from Los Angeles, California. Moved to Virginia in 1976.
Formed in 1974. Original members: Don Parmley and son David (who was 15 at the time), Randy Graham and Bill Bryson.
Don Parmley (banjo) is a native of Monticello, Kentucky. He moved to Los Angeles in 1956 and performed with several LA bands including the Golden State Boys and The Blue Diamond Boys (later The Hillmen)—with Vern Gosdin and Chris Hillman. He also worked with Glen Campbell. As a studio musician, he played banjo on the TV soundtrack “The Beverly Hillbillies.” (While Flatt and Scruggs recorded the theme song and made guest appearances on the show, it was Parmley who played banjo on the program’s soundtrack.) He was employed as a school bus driver when he formed the Bluegrass Cardinals in 1974.
1976, released first album The Bluegrass Cardinals (Tacoma/Briar) and subsequently moved to Virginia.
1977, released Welcome to Virginia album (Rounder).
1978, released Livin’ in the Good Old Days album (CMH).
1979, released Cardinal Soul album (CMH).
1980, released Live and On Stage album (CMH).
1980, released Sunday Morning Singin’ album (CMH).
1981, released Where Rainbows Touch Down album (CMH).
1983 released Cardinal Class album (Sugar Hill).
1984 released Home is Where the Heart Is album (Sugar Hill).
1986, released Shining Path album (Sugar Hill).
1990, released New and Old Favorites album (BGC).
1993, David Parmley left the band to pursue a solo career. He was replaced by Jeff Autry.
1994, released My Kind of Grass album (BGC).
1996, released Mountain Girl album (BGC).
1997, the group disbanded for good.
2000, Don and David re-united to do a few “Cardinal Reunion” shows with Steve Day and Mike Anglin of Continental Divide.
2007, the State of Kentucky put up a commemorative road marker that reads “Welcome to Wayne County, Home of Don Parmley, Founding Member of the Bluegrass Cardinals.”
2015, David Parmley formed a new band called David Parmley and the Cardinal Tradition. He had been driving a bus for Rascall Flatts.
2016, Don Parmley died.
2022, David Parmley, Randy Graham and Larry Stephenson began taking engagements performing together as the Bluegrass Cardinals Tribute Band.

Bluegrass Etc.

Posted on November 3, 2013February 10, 2019 by WR

BLUEGRASS ETC

Formed in San Diego, California in 1980
A trio featuring John Moore (guitar, mandolin) and Dennis Caplinger (banjo, fiddle). Other members of the trio has included John’s sister Julie Moore (guitar), Jim Green (bass), Steve Spurgin (bass/guitar), Larry Park (bass/guitar), Curtis Jones (guitar) and Bill Bryson (bass).
John Moore also played mandolin with the group California. He gave Chris Thile and Sean Watkins (of Nickel Creek) music lessons.
Caplinger is a studio musician and record producer in San Diego. He has played in bands with Richard Greene, Byron Berline, Jann Browne, Tim Flannery, others. He also produces many of the CMH “Pickin On” series of albums.
1982, released first album “Tree Ripe and Ready to Pick” (no label).
1995, released self-titled Bluegrass Etc. album (Tricopolis).
1996, released Travelin’ Band album (Tricopolis).
1999, released Home Is Where the Heart Is album (Tricopolis).
2001, appeared on a Cingular Wireless TV commercial that was aired nationally.

Bluegrass Express

Posted on February 27, 2014April 4, 2024 by WR

BLUEGRASS EXPRESS

From Custer Park, Illinois.
Formed in 1980 by Gary and Greg Underwood (guitar and bass, father and son, respectively). Later Greg’s son Jacob joined the band on banjo, making Bluegrass Express a unique “three-generations bluegrass band.”
Andy Hatfield (mandolin) won first place in the 2013 National Mandolin Championship. He won the Guitar Championship in 2011.
Jacob is also a multi-instrumentalist. He has won championships on mandolin, fiddle and guitar in a variety of competitions.
1985, signed with Atteiram Records and recorded several albums on that label.
2014, released “In Our Own Words” album (no label).
2016, released “Answer to My Prayer” album (no label).
2024, released “Tribute to Jim and Jesse” album (Plum River).

Bluegrass Intentions, The

Posted on November 4, 2013January 15, 2015 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS INTENTIONS

From Northern California.
Formed in 2001 as a project band.
Features Eric and Suzy Thompson (guitar, fiddle), Alan Senauke (guitar) and Bill Evans (bass). Larry Cohea (banjo) and Markie Sanders (bass) often fill in when needed.
Their style blends bluegrass with old-time and cajun music.
2002, released Old As Dirt album (Native and Fine).

Bluegrass Outlaws, The

Posted on December 30, 2016October 17, 2022 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS OUTLAWS

From Sevierville, Tennessee.
Formed in 2016 by Chris Monk (banjo) and his wife Becky Webb Monk (bass). Becky is sister to Darrell Webb.
Other members of the band: Wesley Wolfe (guitar), Evan Maynard (mandolin) and Cody Bauer (fiddle).
Their first “gig” was the band competition at SPBGMA convention in Nashville (2016) and they took first place.
2016, released self-titled album (no label).

Bluegrass Martins, The

Posted on October 5, 2018February 11, 2020 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS MARTINS

From Jefferson City, Missouri.
A family band featuring the Martin siblings Anne (bass), Dale (guitar), Janice (banjo), Lee (mandolin), Jeana (fiddle) and Larita (Dobro™).
2007, won the SPBGMA International Bluegrass Band championship in Nashville.
2017, released Travel Down This Road With Me album (Loveshine) featuring Leona and Ron Williams. Leona is a classic country music singer/songwriter from Missouri who was married to Merle Haggard and co-wrote many songs with him. Ron is her son, also a country music singer/songwriter.

Bluegrass Patriots, The

Posted on November 4, 2013January 15, 2015 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS PATRIOTS

From Fort Collins, Colorado.
Formed in 1980 by banjo player Ken Seaman with Glenn Zankey (guitar), Dan Rogers (bass), Dan Mitchell (fiddle) and Willie McDonald (mandolin).
Achieved national acclaim with their 1991 recording of “When You and I Were Young, Maggie.”
Bass player Dan Rogers is a professional Santa Claus (he has a REAL white beard).
They recorded six albums for Red Feather, Copper Creek and Turquoise Records.
Disbanded in 2011 after 31 years together (same band).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

When You And I Were Young, Maggie (Red Feather, 1990)
The Last Waltz (Turquoise, 1993)
Springtime in the Rockies (Copper Creek, 2004)

Bluegrass Regulators, The

Posted on November 4, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS REGULATORS

From Portland, Oregon.
Formed in 2009 by Luke Dewhirst (banjo), Martin Stevens (fiddle/mandolin), Molly Adkins (guitar), Jake Dewhirst (guitar) and Josh Adkins (bass).
Luke and Jake are brothers; Molly and Josh are brother & sister, all in their teens when the band formed.
Luke is a banjo prodigy and won the Rockygrass banjo competition in 2009 (at age 17).
Jake Dewhirst is enrolled in the U.S. Military Academy, West Point.
2010, released self-titled album.
2011, showcased at IBMA.

Bluegrass Reunion

Posted on November 4, 2013 by WR

BLUEGRASS REUNION (See PHIL ROSENTHAL)

Bluegrass Thoroughbreds, The

Posted on November 4, 2013 by WR

THE BLUEGRASS THOROUGHBREDS

From Winchester, Kentucky.
A family band featuring the Malicote Family: James, his wife Marcie, daughter Marcie Kaye.
They work on a horse farm near Lexington, famous for the world’s greatest thoroughbred, Man-o-War.
Formed in 1974, went full time in 1992.
Appeared on the TV show “You Can Be a Star.”
As of 2002, have recorded 11 albums to their credit.

Blue Highway

Posted on November 4, 2013August 20, 2024 by WR

BLUE HIGHWAY

From Johnson City, Tennessee
First gig: 12/31/94 (New Year’s Eve).
Band members: Tim Stafford (guitar), Wayne Taylor (bass), Shawn Lane (mandolin), Jason Burleson (banjo), Rob Ickes (Dobro™). When the band formed, Tony Brown played banjo and fiddle. He was replaced by Burleson very early in the band’s development.
1996, won IBMA awards for Emerging Artist of the Year and Album of the Year (for “It’s a Long Long Road.”
1997, won IBMA award for Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year (for “God Moves in a Windstorm”).
1998, Burleson took a leave of absence from the band and was replaced by Tom Adams. Burleson returned to the band two years later.
2004, won IBMA Award for Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year (for “Wondrous Love”).
2008, won IBMA Award for Song of the Year (for “Through the Window of a Train”).
2012, won IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year.
They are one of the few bands (if not the only band) in bluegrass to keep all of its original members for 20+ years.
2015, Rob Ickes retired from the band and was replaced by Gavin Largent of Winchester, Virginia, a former member of Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper.
2018. Largent was replaced by Justin Moses.
2019, Moses was replaced by Gary Hultman (formerly with the Boxcars and Highland Travelers).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

It’s a Long Long Road (Rebel, 1993)
Midnight Storm (Rebel, 1998)
Lonesome Pine (Rebel, 2005) A re-release of early Rebel material.
Blue Highway (Ceili Records/Skaggs Family, 2001)
Still Climbing Mountains (Rounder, 2001)
Wondrous Love (Rounder, 2003) Won IBMA award for Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year.
Marbletown (Rounder, 2005) Won IBMA award for Album of the Year.
Through the Window of a Train (Rounder, 2008) Won IBMA award for Song of the Year.
Some Day: The Fifteenth Anniversary Collection (Rounder, 2009) Selections from earlier albums plus new material.
Sounds of Home (Rounder, 2011)
The Game (Rounder, 2014)
Original Traditional (Rounder 2016)
Somewhere Far Away (Down the Road 2019)
Lonesome State of Mind (Down the Road 2024)

Blue Mafia

Posted on October 29, 2014June 22, 2023 by WR

BLUE MAFIA

From Eaton, Indiana.
Formed in 2011 by husband/wife team Dara mandolin) and Tony Wray (guitar). Other members: Cody Looper (banjo), Mike Gregory (bass), Kent Todd (fiddle).
Tony Wray was supervisor of Gibson’s banjo shop in Nashville from 2009 until the flood of 2010 which destroyed the Opry Mills factory. He also worked Mike Snider on the Grand Ole Opry.
Dana Wray is daughter of Dave Denman, an early member of Alison Krauss’ band Union Station. She was also personal assistant to Tom T. Hall.
2012, won the band competition at DelFest.
2013, released first album My Cold Heart (no label).
2015, released Pray for Rain album (Pinecastle Records).
2016, released Hanging Tree album (Pinecastle Records).
2018, Tony Wray joined the Tyminski Band playing guitar and banjo. Fiddler Kent Todd also took time off for his family. Blue Mafia suspended its touring schedule.

Blue Moon Rising

Posted on November 4, 2013January 25, 2022 by WR

BLUE MOON RISING

From East Tennessee.
Formed in 2000 by Chris West.
2002, released first album Where Wood Meets Steel (no label).
Members (2005): Randall Massengill (guitar), Justin Jenkins (banjo), Tim Tipton (bass), Chris West (guitar), Keith Garrett (mandolin).
2005, released On the Rise album (Lonesome Day).
2006, founding member Justin Moses (Dobro™/fiddle), re-joined the band after a stint with Sierra Hull.
2007, Moses left again to join the Dan Tyminski band (and Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, 2010)
2008, released One Lonely Shadow album (Lonesome Day.)
2008 lineup: Keith Garrett (mandolin), Justin Jenkins (banjo), Chris West (guitar). Massengill and Tipton left to form a new band called Brand New Strings.
2009, Keith Garrett left the band to form The Boxcars with Adam Steffey and Ronnie Stewart.
2010, Jenkins left the band to work with Grasstowne.
2010, released Strange New World album with new lineup: Chris West (guitar), Brandon Bostic (guitar), Tony Mowell (bass), Owen Platt (banjo). West is the only original member remaining.
2014, performed several reunion shows with original members Keith Garrett and Justin Jenkins, and they decided to book additional shows with this lineup as schedules allow. Garrett and Jenkins also perform with the Boxcars and Grasstowne respectively.
2018, Garrett, Tipton, Jenkins and Massengill all returned to the band, joining Bostic and West.
2019, released After All This Time album (Mountain Fever).
2022, Massengill died at the age of 49.

Blue Mule

Posted on November 4, 2013February 26, 2015 by WR

BLUE MULE

From Roanoke, Virginia.
Formed in 2003.
Took their name from the Peter Rowan song “Blue Mule” (which he recorded with Muleskinner and Old & In the Way).
Band members include Tom Ohmsen (mandolin), John McBroom (bass), Tim Rhodes (banjo), Eli Williams (guitar).
Besides traditional bluegrass, they play “BlueJazz, BlueRock, BlueCountry and BlueBlues.”
Ohmsen is owner of Flat Five Recording Studio and has authored several instruction books for guitar and mandolin.
2005, released first CD “Enter the Mule”
2008, released “Scratchy.”
2013, released “This Way or That?”

Blue Mule (Canada)

Posted on November 4, 2013 by WR

BLUE MULE (Canada)

From Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Formed in 1980 by Peter Deachman and Geoff Somers.
1992, won the Winterhawk band contest.
1993, Deachman was voted “composer of the year” (for his song “Norman’s Ride”) at the Central Canadian Bluegrass Awards.
1994, won Central Canadian Regional Pizza Hut International Bluegrass Showdown.
2002, disbanded. Deachman formed a new band called Handsome Molly.

BlueRidge

Posted on November 4, 2013July 20, 2021 by WR

BLUERIDGE

From North Carolina.
Formed in 1998 by Terry Baucom, Alan Bibey, Randy Graham and Jimmy Haley.
Nucleus of the group formed in 1985 as The New Quicksilver. They disbanded for more than a decade and reunited as Baucom, Bibey, Graham and Haley, then as BlueRidge.
1999, released Common Ground album (Sugar Hill).
2001, changed name to Baucom, Bibey and BlueRidge.
2002, released Come Along with Me album (Sugar Hill).
2002 lineup: Baucom (banjo), Bibey (mandolin), Junior Sisk (guitar) and Eddie Biggerstaff (bass).
2003, Baucom left to re-join Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. Was replaced by Joey Cox. Band name changed to Alan Bibey and BlueRidge, then simply “BlueRidge.”
2004, released Side By Side album (Sugar Hill).
2006, released gospel project Gettin Ready (Pinecastle).
2006, Bibey left to form a new band “Grasstowne” with Steve Gulley (formerly of Mountain Heart) and Phil Leadbetter (formerly of Wildfire).
2007, BlueRidge disbanded.

Blue Rose

Posted on November 4, 2013December 15, 2018 by WR

BLUE ROSE

From the San Francisco, CA area.
An all-female folk group featuring Laurie Lewis, Cathy Fink, Sally Van Meter, Molly Mason and Marcy Marxer.
They recorded one album together (self titled on Sugar Hill Records) in 1988. Broke up shortly thereafter.

Blue Sky Boys, The

Posted on November 4, 2013 by WR

THE BLUE SKY BOYS

A “brothers duet” from Hickory, North Carolina featuring Bill and Earl Bolick.
One of the most popular and durable country music acts of the 1930’s and 1940’s.
Influenced by the Monroe Brothers, The Delmore Brothers and the Dixon Brothers.
Signed with Victor (Bluebird) Records in 1936. They were very successful as recording artists, not because they had big hit records, but because of steady, long-term sales. Today, their records are collector’s items.
Best known for smooth, gentle harmonies and a tasteful repertoire of songs and hymns.
When World War II started, Bill and Earl both joined the Armed Forces. After the war, they resumed performing at radio stations across the south and recording again for Victor.
Were regulars on the Louisiana Hayride in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Turned down an offer to join the Grand Ole Opry, due to prior commitments.
Stopped performing together in 1951—due to changing trends in country music. Bill became a postal inspector and Earl worked for Lockheed Aircraft.

Boatwright, Ginger

Posted on November 4, 2013March 24, 2019 by WR

GINGER BOATWRIGHT

Born in Columbus, Mississippi; grew up in Palmetto, Alabama. Lived in Nashville for 26 years, then moved to Chugiak, Alaska.
1969, she was diagnosed with cervical cancer and was given three weeks to live. Fortunately, the doctors were wrong.
1972, formed Red, White and Bluegrass with then-husband Grant Boatwright and Dale Whitcomb (banjo). They were based in Georgia and had a hit country single, “July, You’re a Woman.”
1980, formed an all-female band called the Bushwhackers, with Susie Monick, Ingrid Herman Reese (Woody Herman’s daughter), and Kathy Chiavola.
1982-1996, she was guitarist and lead singer with The Doug Dillard Band.
As a session vocalist in Nashville, her credits include commercials for Tony Lama boots, Coors beer and Pizza Hut.
1991, released solo project Fertile Ground (Flying Fish Records).
In 1994, had breast cancer which required major surgery.
May 1991, received a college degree in human resources management.
1999, released “Sipsey” album (no label).
2001, released “Inside the Gate” album (no label).

Boehler, Cindy

Posted on November 4, 2013November 10, 2013 by WR

CINDY BOEHLER

From Limon, Colorado. Lives in Nebraska.
A singer/songwriter who after raising her children began a career in bluegrass music with the release of her first album in 2006 with guests The Jordanaires.
Some have called her “The Karen Carpenter of Bluegrass.”

Boner, Dan

Posted on September 2, 2020 by WR

DAN BONER

From Elizabethton, Tennessee. He is originally from New Jersey.
At age 11, he performed with a group called “The Strings of Gospel.”
A multi-instrumentalist, he is director of the Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies Program at East Tennessee State University. Most people call him “Professor Dan.” He also leads the school’s “ETSU Bluegrass Pride” ensemble.
2018, joined the Becky Buller Band, playing guitar.
2019, released solo project West of West Virginia (Daysight).

Boone, Troy

Posted on June 1, 2015June 15, 2023 by WR

TROY BOONE

From Erwin, Tennessee.
Began performing bluegrass music as a teenager. Began playing banjo, then guitar, then chose mandolin as his primary instrument.
2013, enrolled in East Tennessee State University’s bluegrass music program.
2015, released his first album “First Impressions” (no label).
2017, joined Sideline, playing mandolin.
2018, joined the Amanda Cook band, playing mandolin.
2019, teamed up with Aaron “Frosty” Foster to form a duo. They had previously performed at the Ole Smokey Distillery in East Tennessee as “Dreamcatcher.” They recorded an album together during 2020 (Covid year).
2021, his partner Aaron Foster unexpectedly died at the age of 28.
2023, released Boone & Foster album Smoky Mountain Favorites (Mountain Fever).

Boone & Foster

Posted on April 14, 2023June 15, 2023 by WR

BOONE & FOSTER

From east Tennessee.
A duo featuring Troy Boone (mandolin) and Aaron “Frosty” Foster (guitar).
They began playing together at the Ole Smokey Distillery in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee under the name Dreamcatcher.
2016, Boone joined Sideline playing mandolin. Foster joined the Amanda Cook band playing guitar. Boone married Amanda Cook’s banjo player Carolyn VanLierop which led to Boone joining the Amanda Cook band as well.
2019, they signed with Mountain Fever Records.
2020, began recording their first album
2021, Foster died unexpectedly at the age of 28.
2023, Boone & Foster’s first album Smoky Mountain Favorites (Mountain Fever) was released.

Boone Creek

Posted on November 4, 2013October 26, 2017 by WR

BOONE CREEK

Formed in 1975 by Ricky Skaggs (mandolin/fiddle) and Jerry Douglas (Dobro™).
Other members: Terry Baucom (banjo) and Wes Golding (guitar).
1977, released Boone Creek (Rounder)
1978, released One Way Track (Sugar Hill).
Broke up in 1978 when Ricky was offered a job working with Emmy Lou Harris.

Boohers, The

Posted on November 4, 2013 by WR

THE BOOHERS (THE BOOHER FAMILY)

From Johnson City,Tennessee.
Formed in 2000.
Gary Booher (banjo) and his wife Lora (guitar) lead the band with sons Jamie (bass) and Joe (mandolin).
2005, released album on Lonesome Day Records, recorded in Tom T. Hall’s studio.
Gary is a DJ on the World Wide Bluegrass radio network (internet radio).
2007, Jamie joined Grasstowne (playing bass) and Joe joined NewFound Road (playing mandolin.)

Borrowed Tyme

Posted on April 27, 2018April 20, 2019 by WR

BORROWED TYME

From Indiana (south of Indianapolis).
Formed in 2015 by Roger Brown (Mandolin), Josh Woods (Banjo), Caleb Garrett (Bass) and Joey Coppage (Guitar). Garrett and Coppage were later replaced by Dan Canerday (guitar) and Rick Wilson (bass).
The band name comes from a saying attributed to mandolinist Brown’s now-deceased father: “We’re all living on borrowed time.”
They have appeared on the TV Show “Antique Archaeology” (American Pickers) in Nashville.
2018, released self-titled album (Bonfire).

Bowers, Bryan

Posted on November 4, 2013January 17, 2015 by WR

BRYAN BOWERS

From Yorktown, Virginia. Moved to Seattle, Washington in 1971.
Learned to play autoharp after hearing Mike Seeger of the New Lost City Ramblers.
After moving to Seattle, he played on the street for coins and in bars for tips.
1966, traveled east in his panel truck called “Old Yeller.” Performed at the Cellar Door in Washington, D.C. and was heard by the Dillards, the New Grass Revival, and the Seldom Scene. All three bands have since worked with Bryan both in concert and in the recording studio.
For several years, he traveled with as many as 12 autoharps. Spent three hours before each performance tuning them. “I was basically a professional piano tuner,” he says. “I got burnt out.”
1993, he was inducted into the Autoharp Hall of Fame.
“Bryan is to the autoharp what Earl Scruggs was to the banjo.” (Bluegrass Unlimited)

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

The View from Home (Flying Fish, 1977)
Home Home on the Road (Flying Fish, 1980)
By Heart (Flying Fish, 1984)
Friend for Life (Flying Fish, 1990)

Bowen, Jimmy

Posted on November 4, 2013November 23, 2013 by WR

JIMMY BOWEN (AND SANTA FE)

From Charlotte, North Carolina. Lives in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee
Began performing at the age of 8
Has a degree in accounting from the Citadel.
1988-1994, played mandolin and sang tenor with the Country Gentlemen.
1995, joined Continental Divide. Also started his own accounting firm.
1998, formed his own band, Santa Fe and released several bluegrass albums.
2009, released “Single Down in San Antone,”a country album.
2011, made his acting debut in the FX TV drama, “Outlaw Country.”

Bowman, John

Posted on November 4, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

JOHN R. BOWMAN

From Mt. Airy, North Carolina; lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee
Plays all the bluegrass instruments: banjo, guitar, mandolin, fiddle, bass
1991, joined Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver
1992, joined Alison Krauss and Union Station (took Dan Tyminski’s place for 15 months)
1994, married Becky Isaacs and joined the Isaacs
2000, released Remember Me album (Mountain Home).
2003, released Take This Road album (Mountain Home).
2004, left the Isaacs to be a stay-at-home dad for his children. He also taught 4th grade at a local Christian school in LaFollette, Tennessee.
2008, joined J.D. Crowe and the New South, playing bass
2009, formed The Boxcars with Adam Steffey and Ronnie Stewart.
2011, released Family Chain: The Music of Joe Isaacs album (Mountain Home)
2014, released Worship Him album (Mountain Home) and left the Boxcars to pursue his calling to the Christian ministry.

Bowman, Ronnie

Posted on November 4, 2013January 15, 2021 by WR

RONNIE BOWMAN

From King, North Carolina. Lives in Bassett, Virginia.
Real name: William Franklin Bowman.
First band: “The Carolina Travelers.” Also performed with his parents and four sisters in a group called “The Bowman Gospel Singers.”
Before his professional music career, had a managerial position with the Sara Lee Corporation in Winston-Salem, NC.
1987, joined The Lost and Found.
1990, joined the Lonesome River Band, first as guitarist, then as bass player, singing lead. He recorded several albums with this band including the landmark “Carrying the Tradition” album which won the IBMA Award for Album of the Year in 1992.
1994, recorded first solo album Cold Virginia Night (Rebel Records) which won the IBMA award for Album of the Year (1995). “Cold Virginia Night” also won Song of the Year.
1995, 1998, 1999, won IBMA award for “Male Vocalist of the Year.”
1995, his song “The Healing Kind” was a hit for country singer Dan Seals.
1998, released The Man I’m Tryin to Be album (Sugar Hill).
1999, won IBMA Award for “Song of the Year” and “Gospel Recording of the Year” for his recording of “Three Rusty Nails.”
2001, left the Lonesome River Band to form his own band called “Ronnie Bowman and the Committee.”
2002, released Starting Over album (Sugar Hill).
2003, recorded and toured with Lee Ann Womack. Also toured with Rebecca Lynn Howard and filled in for an ailing Wayne Taylor in Blue Highway.
2004, his song “It’s Getting Better All The Time” became a #1 hit for Brooks and Dunn.
2005, released It’s Gettin’ Better All The Time album (Koch).
2007, his song “Never Wanted Nothing More” became a #1 hit for Kenny Chesney.
2012, began performing with Grasstowne.
2012, formed a part-time band with Don Rigsby and Kenny Smith called The Rambling Rooks (later became the Band of Ruhks).
2013, worked with The Likely Culprits, a Nashville based bluegrass/Americana group.
2020, released self-titled album (Englehart Music).

Bowregard

Posted on January 11, 2021 by WR

BOWREGARD

From Boulder, Colorado.
Formed in 2018 by Max Kabat (guitar), James Armington (banjo), Colleen Heine (fiddle) and Zachary Smith (bass). Justin Konrad (Dobro™) joined in 2019.
2019, won first prize in the Telluride Bluegrass Band competition.
2020, released first album Arrows (no label), produced by Nick Forster of Hot Rize.

Boxcars, The

Posted on November 4, 2013February 22, 2018 by WR

THE BOXCARS

Members of this band are from East Tennessee, East Kentucky, Virginia.
Formed in 2010 after the dissolution of the Dan Tyminski Band (of which several were members).
Original band included Adam Steffey (mandolin), Ron Stewart (banjo/fiddle), John Bowman (banjo/fiddle/guitar), Keith Garrett (guitar), Harold Nixon (bass).
2010, released The Boxcars album (Mountain Home).
2011, won the IBMA Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.
2011, 2012, 2013 won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Group of the Year.
2012, released All In album (Mountain Home).
2013, released It’s Just A Road album (Mountain Home).
2014 (June), John Bowman left the band to pursue his calling to the Christian ministry. He was replaced by 20-year old Gary Hultman (Dobro™).
2016, released Familiar With the Ground album (Mountain Home).
2017, the group disbanded. Ronnie Stewart joined the Seldom Scene. Adam Steffey, Keith Garrett and Gary Hultman formed a new band, the Highland Travelers.

Boyce, Furman (and the Harmony Express)

Posted on November 4, 2013 by WR

FURMAN BOYCE (AND THE HARMONY EXPRESS)

From Greer, South Carolina.
Plays guitar and mandolin. Early in his career, he worked with Carl Story and Charlie Moore
1972, retired from music.
1985, returned to music after giving a friend guitar lessons and having his love for music rekindled. He formed a gospel group called The Harmony Express.
They hosted a weekly cable TV show from Greenville, South Carolina.
They recorded several albums on the Atteiram label.

Boyd, Kathy (and Phoenix Rising)

Posted on November 18, 2013December 8, 2015 by WR

KATHY BOYD AND PHOENIX RISING

From Taulatin, Oregon.
Features Kathy Boyd (bass, lead vocals), Tim Crosby (mandolin, fiddle, and guitar), Tom Tower (banjo and Dobro™) and Dennis Nelson (guitar.)
2009, released Walk Humbly album (no label).
2013, released their 4th album “Spending Every Christmas with You.”
2015, won Bluegrass Band of the Year award from the International Music & Entertainment Association.

Boys from Indiana, The

Posted on November 4, 2013January 19, 2023 by WR

THE BOYS FROM INDIANA

From Sunman, Indiana.
Formed in 1973 by three brothers—Aubrey, Tom and Jerry Holt and their uncle Harley Gabbard. Tom and Jerry retired from the band in 1994. Paul “Moon” Mullins was also an original member of this band (playing fiddle). Noah Crase played banjo.
They were called “the top show band in bluegrass” because of their entertaining style and wide assortment of original songs chronicling the history of bluegrass and country music.
They were frequent guests on the Grand Ole Opry.
They recorded 20 albums for Rebel, King Bluegrass and other labels during their career.
1988, performed at the White House for President Ronald Reagan.
1989, proclaimed official Ambassadors of Bluegrass by Governor of Indiana.
1998, Tony Holt, Jeff Holt and Harlan Gabbard, the sons of Aubrey Holt, Jerry Holt and Harley Gabbard, formed a band called The Wildwood Valley Boys.
2003, Harley Gabbard died, December 29.
2017, Aubrey Holt died, October 5.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Good Time Blues (Rebel Records, 2006) This is a compilation of some of their classic recordings.

Bradley, Dale Ann

Posted on November 4, 2013June 17, 2021 by WR

DALE ANN BRADLEY

From Pineville, Kentucky. Her father was a coal miner and a Baptist minister.
Began performing at age 14 with a group called Back Porch Grass.
1988, worked at Renfro Valley.
1990, joined the New Coon Creek Girls as lead singer and guitarist.
1997, began performing as Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek.
1997, released her first solo album East Kentucky Morning (Pinecastle).
1999. released Old Southern Porches album (Pinecastle).
2001, released Songs Of Praise And Glory album (Pinecastle).
2001, released Cumberland River Dreams album (Doobie Shea).
2003, released Send the Angels album (Mountain Home).
2009, released Catch Tomorrow album (Compass).
2011, released Don’t Turn Your Back album (Compass).
2012, won the IBMA award for Female Vocalist of the Year for the fifth time (she also won in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011).
2012, formed the band Sister Sadie with Tina Adair (mandolin), Deanie Richardson (fiddle), Gena Britt (banjo) and Beth Lawrence (bass). Their 2018 album Sister Sadie II was nominated for a Grammy Award. In 2019 Sister Sadie won the IBMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year. In 2020, Sister Sadie won the IBMA Award for Entertainer of the Year as well as Vocal Group of the Year.
2013, released Somewhere South of Crazy album (Compass).
2015, released Pocket Full of Keys album (Pinecastle).
2017, released Dale Ann Bradley album (Pinecastle).
2018, was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.
2019, released The Hard Way album (Pinecastle).
2020, released Oh Darlin’ album, with Tima Adair (mandolin and vocals) under the name “Bradley & Adair” (Pinecastle).
2020, left Sister Sadie to focus on her solo career. She formed a new touring band called Moon Runner.

Brand New Strings

Posted on November 4, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

BRAND NEW STRINGS

From East Tennessee.
Formed in 2008 by Randall Massengill (guitar), Tim Tipton (bass), Mike Ramsey (mandolin), Stuart Wyrick (banjo) and Matt Leadbetter (resophonic guitar).
Massengill, Tipton and Leadbetter are former members of Blue Moon Rising.
Massengill, Ramsey and Wyrick are former members of the gospel group New Road.
2010, released first album No Strings Attached on Rural Rhythm Records.

Branded Bluegrass

Posted on February 9, 2020February 10, 2020 by WR

BRANDED BLUEGRASS

From Kokomo, Indiana.
Formed in 1986.
Band members: Larry Norfleet (guitar and mandolin), Tristen Norfleet (mandolin, bass, guitar), Jesse Norfleet (dobro, banjo), Derek Dillman (banjo), and Mike Martin (bass). Jesse and Larry Norfleet are brothers; Tristen is Larry’s son.
2016, released Most Welcome album (no label).
2016, Dillman left the band.

Branscomb, Louisa

Posted on November 4, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

LOUISA BRANSCOMB

Originally from upstate New York. Has also lived in the state of Alabama, Washington and at her farm “Woodsong” in Northern Georgia.
She was one of the first women to lead a full-time bluegrass band. In 1971, she led an all-female band called Bluegrass Liberation. She later led the North Carolina group Boot Hill, and another all-female band called Cherokee Rose (which also included Missy Raines and Lynn Morris). She has also fronted an Atlanta-based band called Born Gypsy, playing mandolin.
She is also considered one of the first female banjo players. Alison Brown credits Louisa as being her inspiration to play banjo (Alison’s first exposure to bluegrass, on her 10th birthday, was Louisa’s band Boot Hill).
She has written many songs for other artists. Her “Steel Rails” was a hit record and Grammy-winner for Alison Krauss and Union Station as well as John Denver.
She has an M.A. in counseling form Wake Forest University; a Ph.D from Georgia State University. She is a psychologist and author.
Hobby: training thoroughbred horses.
2011, Compass Records released I’ll Take Love, an album of Louisa Branscomb songs featuring John Cowan, Claire Lynch, The Whites, Dave Peterson, Josh Williams, Alison Krauss and other artists.
2014, her song “Dear Sister” (as recorded by Claire Lynch) won Song of the Year at the IBMA Awards.
2017, was presented with a “Distinguished Achievement Award” by the IBMA.
2018, was inducted into the Alabama Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Brashear, Chris

Posted on November 5, 2013January 7, 2015 by WR

CHRIS BRASHEAR (AND THE PERFECT STRANGERS)

From Pelham, Massachusetts. Grew up in Ozark, Missouri.
1988, moved to Oregon and played fiddle with Kentucky Rose.
1992, worked in Tucson with Peter McLaughlin and the Frog Mountain Trio.
1995, moved to Italy for two years while his wife was studying there.
On his return to the US, he played bass with Laurie Lewis and jazz violin with the Maurizio Geri Swingtet.
1999, released first solo project and formed a band called “The Perfect Strangers” with Peter McLaughlin, Jody Stecher, Bob Black and Forrest Rose (Rose passed away in 2005).
2007, joined Robin and Linda Williams as part of “Their Fine Group.”

Breakaway

Posted on November 5, 2013 by WR

BREAKAWAY

From Burlington, Vermont.
Formed in 1988 by banjo player Scott Hopkins.
1994, won first place in the band contest at Winterhawk Bluegrass Festival (NY).
Were regulars at a club called “Sneakers” in Burlington.
2000, performed with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra.
Recorded four albums altogether.

Breaking Grass

Posted on November 5, 2013March 21, 2017 by WR

BREAKING GRASS

From Booneville, Mississippi.
Formed in 2010. Band members: Cody Farrar (guitar/lead vocals/songwriter), Tyler White (fiddle), Thelton Vanderford (banjo), Zach Wooten (mandolin), and Britt Sheffield (bass).
2011, won first place at the State of Mississippi Bluegrass Band Championship, first place in the Athens Old Time Fiddler’s Bluegrass Band Competition in Alabama and first place in the Uncle Dave Macon Days Bluegrass Band Competition in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
2011, recorded first self-titled album.
2012, won B.O.R.N. (Band On The Rise Nationally) award.
2012, released second album Running With the Moon (no label) produced by Stephen Mougin.
2014, released Just As Strong album (Mountain Fever).
2016, banjo player Vanderford left the band and was replaced by Jody Elmore.
2017, released Warning Signs album (Mountain Fever).

Bressler Brothers, The

Posted on November 5, 2013 by WR

THE BRESSLER BROTHERS

From Eminence, Missouri.
Brothers Andy (guitar) and Alvin (vocals) Bressler.
1965, began performing on the Current River Opry in Summersville, MO.
2000, formed the Bressler Brothers band including Alvin’s sons Bruce and Scott.
2001, performed a song they wrote (“The Bluegrass King Has Gone to Heaven”) at the ribbon cutting ceremony of the Bill Monroe Homeplace in Rosine, Kentucky.

Brewer, Gary (and the Kentucky Ramblers)

Posted on November 5, 2013October 16, 2020 by WR

GARY BREWER (AND THE KENTUCKY RAMBLERS)

From Louisville, Kentucky.
Played rock music until “I got run over by a car,” he says. While in the hospital, he began playing acoustic guitar, singing old songs, and “that’s where I really started getting into the music.” He and his two rock ‘n’ roll buddies formed the “The Kentucky Ramblers” in 1980.
His father is a bluegrass musician, as was his grandfather. His band includes his father Finley (guitar) and his two sons Wayne (bass) and Mason (mandolin).
Nickname: “Stretch.” His record label is called Stretchgrass Productions.
He often refers to his music as “brewgrass.”
1979, formed his band The Kentucky Ramblers. Around that time he purchased Bill Monroe’s bus which was named “Bluegrass Breakdown.”
1982, recorded his first album, “Lonesome Road.”
1989, started the “Strictly Bluegrass” bluegrass festival in Louisville.
1994, selected to tour with Bill and James Monroe’s “Father and Son” Winter Tour.
Since 1986, he has been under contract with the City of Louisville, performing for the Mayor and other city functions.
1994, toured with Bill Monroe including a tour to Europe.
1995, first guest appearance on the Grand Ole Opry
2002, won two gold medals at the U.S. Tai-Kwon-Do championships, qualifying him for the 2004 Olympic team.
2010, appeared on the TV Show “Extreme Home Makeover” with his family band.
2015, was awarded a personalized baseball bat from the Louisville Slugger factory, for mentioning the iconic company in one of his songs and music videos “The Derby City Flash.”
2018, was presented with the key to the city of Shepherdsville, Kentucky where he holds a festival.
2020, released 40th Anniversary Celebration album (SGM). Includes a duet with Doug Phelps of the Kentucky Headhunters “Big Train.”

Brewster, Paul

Posted on November 5, 2013February 11, 2022 by WR

PAUL BREWSTER

From Knoxville, Tennessee. Lives in Nashville.
First band: The Dixie Rebels (in Knoxville).
1976-1978, worked with the Knoxville Grass.
1978, joined the Pinnacle Boys.
1979-1989, worked with the Osborne Brothers.
1989-1991, lived in Florida and was a golf pro.
1992, worked at Dollywood with a group called True Blue.
1993, formed his own band called Heartland.
1996, joined Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
2002, released first solo album, Everybody’s Talkin (Skaggs Family Records).
2013, released a country album of his original songs “3 Minute Heartache.”
2021, retired from performing.

Bright, Fletcher

Posted on November 5, 2013December 26, 2017 by WR

FLETCHER BRIGHT

From Lookout Mountain, Tennessee.
A fiddler who formed a band in 1945 called The Dismembered Tennesseans. They are still together. The band was made up of students from McCallie Private Boys School in Chattanooga. They have appeared on ABC-TV’s Peter Jennings Nightly News and were featured on the NBC Sunday Today Show.
He is a very successful realtor by trade.
2013, recorded an album of fiddle tunes with banjo player Bill Evans called Fine Times At Fletcher’s House: Fiddle and Banjo Music from Lookout Mountain, Tennessee (Native and Fine).
2017, was presented with a “Distinguished Achievement Award” by the IBMA.
2017, passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 86.
.

Britt, Gena

Posted on November 5, 2013November 1, 2023 by WR

GENA BRITT (TEW)

From Bisco, North Carolina.
Plays banjo and sings lead & harmony vocals.
1990, at age 18 moved to Nashville and worked with Petticoat Junction.
1992, joined New Vintage.
1994, joined Lou Reid and Carolina.
2001, formed her own band.
2001, won IBMA award for her work on the “Follow Me Back to the Fold” project with the Daughters of Bluegrass.
2003, married Tim Tew (who plays Dobro™ in her band.)
Has also worked dates with The Lonesome River Band, Carolina Road, Sally Jones & The Sidewinders, The Alecia Nugent Band, The Donna Hughes Band, The DaleAnn Bradley Band and others.
2008, recorded and performed with the Daughters of Bluegrass.
2008, released solo project Doing All I Can (no label).
2011, worked with the Skip Cherryholmes Quintet.
2013, formed Sister Sadie with Dale Ann Bradley and Tina Adair.
2014, joined Grasstowne, playing bass.
2018, left Grasstowne to work full-time with Sister Sadie.
2019, released solo project Chronicle (Pinecastle).
2020, joined Phil Leadbetter and the All Stars of Bluegrass.

Brock, Jesse

Posted on November 5, 2013June 8, 2024 by WR

JESSE BROCK

From Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Began singing and playing mandolin at age 9 in his family’s band.
First band: Stonewall Bluegrass.
1992, joined the Lynn Morris Band.
1996, joined Chris Jones and the Night Drivers.
1998, re-joined the Lynn Morris Band.
2001, recorded first solo album Kickin’ Grass (Pinecastle Records).
2003, joined Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek.
2006, joined Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper.
2011, left Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper to form his own band and perform with his family band “The Brock Family Reunion Band.”
2012, worked with Audie Blaylock and Redline.
2013, joined the Gibson Brothers.
2015, won his second IBMA award for Mandolin Player of the Year (also won in 2009).
2016, a book was published titled The Mandolin Style of Jesse Brock, co-authored by guitarist Nick DeSebastian.
2018, left the Gibson Brothers and formed his own band called Mainline Express with John Miller (guitar), Gary Filgate (banjo) and Rob Ravlin (bass). Also worked with Jeff Scroggins.
2019, joined Fast Track.
2021, formed his own band called Streamliner.
2021, formed a new band called Authentic Unlimited (with members of Doyle Lawson’s old band Quicksilver).

Bromberg, David

Posted on November 5, 2013 by WR

DAVID BROMBERG

From Philadelphia, PA grew up in New York City. Has also lived in San Francisco, Chicago and currently, Wilmington, Delaware.
As a teenager, got involved in the folk-music scene (Greenwich Village) and took up the guitar. He is also a virtuoso on mandolin and fiddle.
1968, graduated from Columbia University, studying Musicology.
Has worked as a sideman for many artists including Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, John Hurt, the Reverend Gary Davis, Tom Paxton, and Chubby Checker.
Has recorded with many bluegrass perfomers, like Jerry Douglas, Vassar Clements, Doc Watson, Bela Fleck and Tony Trischka. Gene Johnson (of Diamond Rio) fame was a member of Bromberg’s band in the 1980’s.
1971, recorded first album for Columbia Records “David Bromberg.” He recorded four others for the label including “Demon in Disguise,”Wanted Dead or Alive,” and ” Midnight on the Water.”
1984, graduated from the Kenneth Warren School of Violin Making. He currently owns a high-end violin store in Wilmington, DE.
Tours as a solo artist as well as with a group called Angel Band, led by his wife, Nancy Josephson.
2008, released a bluegrass album by the David Bromberg Quartet that was recorded live in New York City in 1982.

Brombies, The

Posted on November 5, 2013May 10, 2018 by WR

THE BROMBIES

From Los Angeles, California.
A bluegrass/folk duo featuring Jo Ellen and George Doering (guitar and mandolin).
Formed in the late 1980’s.
They named their group after “the brumby’s,” wild horses that roam the outback of Australia, brought there by Jack Brumby, “The Man From Snowy River”, in the 1880’s. They discovered too late that they had misspelled the name.
Jo Ellen Doering began playing bluegrass in San Diego in the 1960’s (influenced by the Scottsville Squirrel Barkers with Kenny Wertz, Bernie Leadon, Chris Hillman, Larry Murray and Ed Douglas). Later toured with Hoyt Axton, the Smothers Brothers and Ricky Nelson.
George Doering studied music at San Diego State University and has worked as a studio musician and touring sideman with such artists as Sonny and Cher, Seals and Crofts, and others.
Other members of the group have included Bill Bryson (bass), Gabe Witcher (fiddle), Patrick Sauber (banjo) and other Southern California musicians.
2010, released From the Piney Hills of Hollywood album (no label).
2018, released Running with the Herd album (no label). This album was Bill Bryson’s last recording with the band, as he passed away in 2017.

Brooke, Summer (and the Mountain Faith Band)

Posted on April 5, 2018 by WR

See MOUNTAIN FAITH

Brother Boys, The

Posted on November 5, 2013April 17, 2017 by WR

THE BROTHER BOYS

From Johnson City, Tennessee.
A duo featuring Eugene Wolf and Ed Snodderly.
Snodderly is a musician, songwriter, actor and owner of one of Johnson City’s oldest music venues, the Down Home.
They refer to their style as “New Hillbilly Music.”
They met while performing together in a repertory theatre group. After singing together in a play, they decided to continue as a musical act.
1992, released first album “Plow” on Sugar Hill Records.
1995, released second album “Presley’s Grocery” on Sugar Hill Records.
1998, Snodderly joined the faculty of East Tennesse State University’s bluegrass music department.
2000, Snodderly appeared in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou” starring George Clooney. He played one of the village idiots.

Brothers Barton, The

Posted on November 5, 2013 by WR

THE BROTHERS BARTON

From Bakersfield, CA.
Paul and Loren Barton are brothers who play mandolin and guitar respectively.
1996, Paul won “instrumentalist of the year” at South Plains College (Levelland, TX) where he studied music.
2005, teamed up with fiddler Richard Greene to form “Richard Greene and the Brothers Barton.”

Brown, Alison

Posted on November 5, 2013May 18, 2024 by WR

ALISON BROWN

Native of Connecticut; grew up in La Jolla, California. Lives in Nashville.
A graduate of Harvard University; has an MBA in finance from UCLA. For a short time, she worked as an investment broker with Smith-Barney.
First band: The Stringbenders (San Diego).
As a teenager, she played Dobro™ with Gold Rush, a group that included Stuart Duncan on fiddle and John Hickman on banjo.
1981, recorded a duet album with Stuart Duncan called “Pre-Sequel” (Ridgerunner).
While at Harvard, she was a member of the band Northern Lights.
1989-1991, played banjo and guitar with Alison Krauss and Union Station.
1990, released solo album Simple Pleasures (Vanguard).
1991, won IBMA award for Banjo Player of the Year.
1992, toured with folk-rock artist Michelle Shocked.
1993, with husband Garry West, founded Compass Records.
1994, released Look Left album (Vanguard).
1996, formed The Alison Brown Quartet, an acoustic jazz ensemble featuring the banjo. Released Quartet album (Vanguard).
1998, released Out of the Blue album (Compass).
1999, recorded and toured with the Americana band “New Grange” with Tim O’Brien, Darol Anger and Mike Marshall.
2000, released bluegrass album Fair Weather (Compass) featuring vocal performances by guests Vince Gill and Claire Lynch.
2000, Alison’s “Girl’s Breakdown” (from her Fair Weather album) was used as the official wake up music for the crew of the U.S. Space Shuttle Destiny during their mission to the International Space Station.
2001, won Grammy for Best Country Instrumental “Leaving Cottondale,” a duet with Bela Fleck (from her Fair Weather album).
2002, gave the keynote address at the IBMA World of Bluegrass in Louisville.
2009, released The Company You Keep album (Compass).
2014, received the 2014 USA Artists Berresford Fellowship, a $50,000 grant given to artists who have made significant contributions in their field of endeavor.
2015, released The Song of the Banjo album (Compass).
2019, performed as a member of the “First Ladies of Bluegrass,” a group featuring the first women to win the IBMA Award in their instrument categories: Alison (banjo), Missy Raines (bass), Becky Buller (fiddle), Sierra Hull (mandolin) and Molly Tuttle (guitar).
2019, she was inducted into the American Banjo Hall of Fame.
2023, released On Banjo album (Compass).
2023, collaborated with Steve Martin to write and record Foggy Morning Breaking (an instrumental) and “Bluegrass Radio” (a song with lyrics written by Martin).

Brown, Dewey & Leslie

Posted on March 22, 2018October 17, 2022 by WR

DEWEY AND LESLIE BROWN (AND THE CAROLINA GENTLEMEN)

From Burlington, North Carolina.
A husband and wife duo. They were married in 2007.
Dewey Brown was the fiddle player for Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys for 11 years (2005-2016). He previously worked with Honi Deaton and the Country Gentlemen.
Leslie VanDyke Brown is a native of Virginia and began performing at age 7. She plays bass with the band and is a professional clog dancer, songwriter and booking agent. She has also worked as a registered nurse.
Together they own a performing arts theater, The Liberty Showcase Theater in Liberty, North Carolina. They also promote two bluegrass festivals each year, DeweyFest and GospelFest, held on their 52 acre farm in Burlington.
2018, released an album with their band the Carolina Gentlemen “Our Mountain Legacy” (Liberty Showcase). Band members include Tim Spence (guitar), Brandon Henson (banjo) and Kendall Gales (mandolin). on mandolin.

Brown, Hylo

Posted on November 5, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

HYLO BROWN

From River, Kentucky.
Recorded for Capitol Records (1954-1961).
Band: the Timberliners. Also had a band at one time called “The Buckskins” (named after their trademard buckskin jackets).
Real name: Frank Brown. He got the name “Hylo” (High-Low) because of his incredible vocal range. He would often sing the verse of a song in a baritone voice, then falsetto on the chorus—an octave higher.
Was a regular on the WWVA Jamboree, Wheeling, West Virginia.
Late fifties, toured for Martha White Mills (as did Flatt and Scruggs).
July 1959, appeared at first Newport Folk Festival backing Earl Scruggs, who made a solo appearance.
2003, died of cancer.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Bluegrass Music Heritage Collection, Hylo Brown & Timberliners (Rural Rhythm)
Best Of: Essential Original Masters (Rural Rhythm)
1954-60 (Bear Family) This is the complete collection of Hylo Brown recordings on Capitol Records.

Brown, Jeff (and Still Lonesome)

Posted on April 30, 2018November 7, 2022 by WR

JEFF BROWN (AND STILL LONESOME)

From Cedar Bluff, Virginia.
Guitarist and vocalist Brown began playing as a youngster in a band with his brother called the Richlands Bluegrass Boys. Wayne Taylor (of Blue Highway) was also in this band. He has since worked with Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers (playing bass, from 1993 to 1996), Charlie Sizemore, Ralph Stanley, Jesse McReynolds and many others.
He now fronts his own band Still Lonesome which includes Austin Brown (bass), Nick Goad (mandolin) & Rod Smith (banjo).
He is a bluegrass DJ and also a bluegrass concert promoter. He has helped organize and promote several bluegrass festivals and concerts.
2014, was named a Kentucky Colonel.
2016, released “A Distant Horizon” album (Union House).
2017, released Blue Side of Me album (Mountain Fever).
2019, released A Distant Horizon (Union House).
2020, Jeff Brown was named Vice President of Records for Turnberry Records.
2022, released Old Kentucky Moon album (Turnberry).

Brown, Tommy

Posted on November 5, 2013February 21, 2020 by WR

TOMMY BROWN (AND THE COUNTY LINE GRASS)

From Shepherdsville, Kentucky.
Brown plays banjo and sings lead vocals with his band the County Line Grass (formed in 1991).
Began playing banjo at age 6. Won both the Kentucky and Tennessee State Banjo Championships.
2002, added his 17-year old son Jereme to the band (guitar) and his 16-year old daughter Rachel (bass). His wife Laura sings and clog-dances.
2014, released Leaving This Town album (Randm Records).
Jereme Brown is also a member of the Po’ Mountain Boys.

Bruce, Steve

Posted on October 8, 2022November 4, 2024 by WR

STEVE BRUCE

From LaFollette, Tennessee.
He is pastor of the Faith Way Assembly Of God Church (since 1991).
He also plays the banjo and has played in a variety of bluegrass gospel groups since the early 1980’s.
His father was a banjo-playing preacher and his son also. His son is the assistant pastor at his church and his daughter is the worship pastor.
Before his call to preach, he worked for the Norfolk Southern Railway.
2022, released What I Know Now album (SweetSong Nashville) featuring banjo tunes inspired by his faith.
2024, released EP A Family Tradition (SweetSong Nashville).

Brush Arbor

Posted on November 6, 2013 by WR

BRUSH ARBOR

From San Diego, California.
Had success in the early 1970’s with several top-40 country songs like “Proud Mary” and “Brush Arbor Meeting” (Capitol Records).
1973, they were voted “Vocal Group of the Year” and “Touring Band of the Year” by the Academy of Country Music.
Network TV appearances included “Hee Haw,” “Music Country USA” and “The Johnny Cash NBC Special.”
Made several Grand Ole Opry appearances and toured with Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, the late Marty Robbins, the Everly Brothers, etc.
Twice voted the third-most-popular Bluegrass Band of the Year in a Music City News Readers Poll (1973, 1974) behind Bill Monroe and the Osborne Brothers.
Original members: Ken Munds (guitar), Wayne Rice (banjo), Jim Rice (guitar and pedal steel), Joe Rice (mandolin), David Rose (bass) and Pat Stephens, drums. Wayne, Jim and Joe Rice are brothers. No, they are not related to the “other” Rice brothers (Tony, Larry, Ron and Wyatt.)
Wayne Rice and Ken Munds left the band in 1975. Brothers Jim and Joe Rice remained with the group until 1996, performing gospel music. Joe departed in 1996 and Jim kept the band together until 1999. He now performs as a solo artist and speaker.

Bub, Mike

Posted on November 6, 2013May 28, 2021 by WR

MIKE BUB

From Scottsdale, Arizona. Moved to Nashville in 1989.
1985, formed Weary Hearts band with Ron Block, Eric Uglum and Butch Baldassari. Played bass.
1991-1992, played banjo with Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time.
1992-2005, played bass with the Del McCoury band.
1996, 1997, 2002, 2003, 2005, won IBMA award for Bass Player of the Year.
He was a regular member of The Sidemen, a group that performed on Tuesday nights at Nashville’s Station Inn.
Since leaving the Del McCoury Band, he has worked in dozens of bands including 18 South (with Jon Randall), Dale Ann Bradley, Peter Rowan, Tony Rice, Tim O’Brien and Vince Gill. He performs regularly at the Station Inn.
2012, received the first IBMA Momentum Award for Mentor of the Year.

Buchanan, Jim

Posted on November 6, 2013 by WR

JIM BUCHANAN

From North Carolina. Lives in Nashville.
A dynamic fiddler best known for his work with Jim and Jesse and the Virginia Boys. He was also a member of The Greenbriar Boys (New York).
Son of old-time fiddler Clato “Buck” Buchanan.
At age 11, performed on the Ed Sullivan TV show with “Joe Franklin and the Mimosa Boys.”
1982, recorded an album with Vince Gill, Herb Pederson, Emory Gordy, Jr. and David Grisman called Here Today.
Also worked with Tompall and the Glaser Brothers, Mel Tillis and George Jones. As a studio musician, his credits include albums by Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings, Ronnie Millsap, Ringo Starr, the Doors, and many others.
1992, recorded an album called “Bluegrass Reunion” with Red Allen, David Grisman, Herb Pederson, Jerry Garcia and others.
1995, formed his own band called “The Jim Buchanan System” and released one album under that name.
He continues to work in the music business in Nashville. He also travels to churches, playing his fiddle and giving his testimony.

Buffalo Gals

Posted on December 31, 2018December 31, 2018 by WR

BUFFALO GALS

From Syracuse, New York.
Formed in 1972 by Martha Trachtenberg (guitar), Nancy Josephson (bass), Susie Monick (banjo), Carol Siegel (mandolin) and Sue Raines (fiddle).
They are considered to be the first all-female bluegrass band in history.
They originally called themselves the Buffalo Chips, but Carlton Haney changed their name to Buffalo Gals when he booked them on his festival.
1975, released their only album “First Born” (Revonah).
Susie Monick was Tony Trischka’s first banjo student.

Bullas, The

Posted on November 6, 2013July 4, 2016 by WR

THE BULLAS (LUKE AND JENNY ANNE BULLA)

Originally from Grants Pass, Oregon; 1998, moved to Nashville.
A family band featuring parents Brad and Carol Bulla, with children Luke and Jenny Anne. The original family band was called “The In-Laws” (with Carol’s sister and her husband also in the group), then later “Legacy.”
Luke and Jenny Anne recorded an album for Rounder Records in 1991. Luke was eleven years old, Jenny Anne was ten.
Luke and Jenny began playing fiddle when they were 7 and 6 years old respectively.
1989, won the national old-time fiddle championship in their respective age divisions (Weiser, Idaho). Repeated in 1993.
1990, Luke placed in the top ten at the Grand Masters Fiddling Championships in Nashville—competing against fiddlers from all over the world of all ages.
1998-2000, Luke played fiddle with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder.
2000, Brad formed Brad Bulla Promotions, working with a variety of artists and record labels.
2000-present, Jenny has worked with numerous artists including Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike, Paul Overstreet, Ricky Skaggs, the Watkins Family Hour, Chris Jones and Jim Lauderdale. She currently lives in Spokane, Washington and is married to author Caleb Mannan (her name is now Jenny Anne Mannan). She released a solo project Saints & Sinners (no label).
2000-present, Luke has worked with numerous artists including the John Cowan Band, Lyle Lovett, Noam Pikelny, Kevin Costner, Earl Scruggs and Sam Bush. He also had a rock band called Wisechild (with Casey Driessen). 2014, released a solo project “Who Loves You Better” on his own label Pure Music.
2014, Brad formed a band called Fireball Mail (plays guitar).

Buller, Becky

Posted on November 6, 2013September 25, 2024 by WR

BECKY BULLER

From St. James, Minnesota.
She began performing at age 10 with her parents in a band called Prairie Grass.
1996, she won the Minnesota Junior Fiddling Championship. Also won the Hank Williams songwriting contest in Avoca, Iowa.
While a student at East Tennessee State University majoring in public relations, she performed with the ETSU Bluegrass Band and with Linda Barker and Appalachian Trail.
Her songwriting credits include “Be Living” (recorded by Doyle Lawson), “Charlie Lawson’s Still” (recorded by Mark Newton), “Fishers of Men” (recorded by Rhonda Vincent), “Music to My Ears” (Ricky Skaggs).
2000, released first solo project.
2004, released solo album, Little Bird (no label).
2008, joined Thunder Radio’s “Bluegrass Crossroads” radio program in Manchester, TN as co-host.
2001-2011, was a member of Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike.
2003, released Rest My Weary Feet album (no label)
2012, appeared on the cover of Fiddler magazine.
2012-2014, was a member of Darin and Brooke Aldridge’s band, singing harmony and playing fiddle.
2014, released second solo project Tween Earth and Sky (Dark Shadow).
2014, embarked on a solo career.
2015, won IBMA Awards for Emerging Artist of the Year, Recorded Event of the Year (for “Southern Flavor”) and Songwriter of the Year.
2016, won IBMA Awards for Female Vocalist of the Year and Fiddle Player of the Year.
2017, released Crepe Paper Heart album (Dark Shadow).
2018, won the IBMA Awards for Gospel Recording of the Year (for “Speaking to that Mountain” from her Crepe Paper Heart album) and also for Recorded Event of the Year (for her participation in the song “Swept Away” by Missy Raines and “First Ladies of Bluegrass.”
2020, won the IBMA Award for Collaborative Recording of the Year (for The Barber’s Fiddle – with Shawn Camp, Jason Carter, Laurie Lewis, Kati Penn, Sam Bush, Michael Cleveland, Johnny Warren, Stuart Duncan, Deanie Richardson, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, Jason Barie, Fred Carpenter, Tyler Andal, Nate Lee, Dan Boner, Brian Christianson, and Laura Orshaw.)
2021, made her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry (September 9).
2023, she was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame.
2024, released Jubilee album (Dark Shadow).
2024, delivered the keynote address at the IBMA’s World of Bluegrass conference.

Burch, Curtiss

Posted on November 6, 2013May 14, 2022 by WR

CURTIS BURCH

From Montgomery, Alabama. Lives in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
1971, a founding member of the New Grass Revival (left the group in 1981). Played guitar and Dobro™.
Has also performed with Leon Russell, John Hartford, Vassar Clements, Norman and Nancy Blake, Doc Watson, many others.
1995, won Grammy for his participation on the “Great Dobro Sessions” CD, produced by Jerry Douglas.
2000, performed on the “O Brother Where Art Thou” soundtrack.
2001, recorded and performed with The Larry Keel Experience and Soul Grass.

Burdett, Aaron

Posted on January 21, 2021February 25, 2023 by WR

AARON BURDETT

From Saluda, North Carolina.
A singer/songwriter who blends Americana, country, blues, bluegrass, and folk.
He has won numerous songwriting competitions and was listed as one of the top 10 most important musicians of western North Carolina by WNC Magazine.
He has released several albums under his own name, including Fruits of My Labor (2014) and Refuge (2017).
2020, released several original bluegrass songs on the Bonfire label.
2022, joined the Steep Canyon Rangers, taking the spot vacated by Woody Platt.

Burge, Rachel (and Blue Dawning)

Posted on June 21, 2014December 13, 2019 by WR

RACHEL BURGE AND BLUE DAWNING

From West Virginia.
Majored in music at Glenville State College and played mandolin in the GSC Bluegrass Band.
After college, she formed an all-girl bluegrass band called Mountain Fury. Lizzie Long was also a member of that group.
2008, joined No One You Know.
2012, released solo album “Don’t You Worry About Me.”
2013, formed Blue Dawning with Lance Gainer (guitar), Radford Vance (banjo), Michelle Birkby-Vance (fiddle) and Rick Westerman (bass).

Burnett Sisters Band, The

Posted on December 21, 2020May 13, 2023 by WR

THE BURNETT SISTERS BAND

From Boone, North Carolina
A family band featuring sisters Kathleen (guitar), Anissa (fiddle), Anneli (fiddle/mandolin) and Sophia (bass) Burnett.
Multi-instrumentalist Colin Ray joined the band in 2020.
They are students or graduates of the bluegrass music program at East Tennessee State University.
2020, released album Long Way From Home (Bee Hive).
2022, Kathleen (guitar) married Colin Ray and they left the group to perform on their own as a duo.
2023, Justin Alexander (guitar) joined the group and began recording a new album.

Burton, Chris

Posted on November 16, 2015 by WR

CHRIS BURTON

From Roanoke, Virginia.
A banjo player and songwriter who performs with a regional band called Exit 109.
2006, released solo project Way I See It (no label) featuring vocals from Amanda Smith and Jerry MacMillan (former Lonesome River Band member).
2015, released Wandering Again album (no label) featuring vocals from Missy Armstrong (Detour) and Junior Sisk.

Busby, Buzz

Posted on November 6, 2013February 19, 2023 by WR

BUZZ BUSBY (AND THE BAYOU BOYS)

From Eros, Louisiana. Moved to Washington D.C.
Real name: Bernard Busbice
He was one of the first to popularize bluegrass music in the D.C. area.
1954, he had a TV program in Washington called “Hayloft Hoedown.”
1955, moved back to Louisiana to work on the Louisiana Hayride. Formed his band “The Bayou Boys.”
Band members included Scott Stoneman, Pete Pike, Eddie Adcock, Charlie Waller, Bill Emerson, among others.
1957, signed record deal with Starday Records.
After a traffic accident in 1957 (he was presumed dead but was brought back to life by medical technicians), his band had to find other employment. His banjo player Bill Emerson formed a new band, The Country Gentlemen.
Substance abuse kept him from becoming a major star in bluegrass. It also put him in prison.
He died in January, 2003.

Bush, Sam

Posted on November 6, 2013July 29, 2023 by WR

From Bowling Green, Kentucky. Lives in Nashville.
Leader of The New Grass Revival for twenty years.
Dubbed “the world’s greatest all-purpose mandolinist” by David Grisman.
Bought first mandolin at age 11. Also began playing fiddle about that time, influenced stylistically by Byron Berline and Kenny Baker.
As a junior in high school, joined Poor Richard’s Almanac, a band that included Wayne Stewart and Alan Munde.
After high school, joined The Bluegrass Alliance.
1971, at age 19, formed The New Grass Revival and was the leader of that group until its breakup in the spring of 1990.
1981, had cancer and was hospitalized. Surgery was successful and to date, no recurrence.
1984, released first solo album Late As Usual (Rounder).
1989, recorded with Jerry Douglas, Mark O’Connor, Tony Rice and Mark Schatz in a group called Strength in Numbers.
1990-1994, was a member of Emmylou Harris’ band The Nash Ramblers.
1995, toured with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones.
1996, released Glamour & Grits album (Sugar Hill).
1997, formed a part-time rock/blues band called “Duck Butter” with John Cowan and guitarist Kenny Lee.
1998, formed The Sam Bush Band.
1998, released Howlin at the Moon album (Sugar Hill).
2000, released Ice Caps: Peaks of Telluride album (Sugar Hill).
2002, sang the national anthem at a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game. He is a diehard Cardinals fan with an extensive collection of memorabilia. His dog is named “Ozzie” after the great Cardinals shortstop, Ozzie Smith.
2004, released King of My World album (Sugar Hill).
2007, hosted the IBMA Awards Show in Nashville.
2009, released Circles Around Me album (Sugar Hill).
2007, 1992, 1991, 1990, won IBMA Award for Mandolin Player of the Year.
2015, a documentary film was released called “The Sam Bush Story.”
2016, released Storyman album (Sugar Hill).
2019, was awarded an honorary doctorate degree by Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY.
2023, was inducted into the IBMA Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Buzzini, Eddie Ray

Posted on January 16, 2023 by WR

EDDIE RAY BUZZINI

From Mooresville, North Carolina.
His given name is Ettore Buzzini. Born in 2007 into a multi-lingual family. His father is Swiss-Italian and his mother is from East Tennessee.
He began playing his grandfather’s banjo at age six.
He plays banjo with a local band called Bluegrass 77.
2022, released his first album Eddie Ray (Patuxent) at age 15.

Adkins, Paul (and The Borderline Band)

Posted on October 28, 2013January 25, 2022 by WR

PAUL ADKINS (AND THE BORDERLINE BAND)

From Wayne, West Virginia; lives in Middletown MD.
1972, first band: The Bluegrass Gospel Four.
1978, led a West Virginia band called “Southland Express.”
1979. played guitar and sang lead for The Laurel Mountain Boys (Charleston, WV)
1980, joined Glen Duncan and Phoenix
1981, played with The Goins Brothers (Mandolin and harmony vocals)
1982, replaced Keith Whitley as lead singer and guitarist with J.D. Crowe and the New South.
1984, auditioned for job as lead singer with Seldom Scene, but joined Bill Harrell and the Virginians instead, playing mandolin.
1988, formed Paul Adkins and The Borderline Band.
1989-1998, recorded five albums for Rebel Records.
2011, began touring again. Band members: Paul (mandolin), Jay Armsworthy (guitar), Chris Warner (banjo) Kevin Mallow (fiddle) and Heath Laird (bass).

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Wings of Gold (Rebel, 1990)
Reflections of Love (Rebel, 1991)
Modern Times (Rebel, 1992)
How Many Roads (Rebel, 1994)
Old Rusty Gate (Rebel, 1996)

Ages Past

Posted on March 16, 2022April 1, 2024 by WR

AGES PAST

From western North Carolina.
Formed in the early 1990’s by guitarist Randy Gallion. The group included such musicians as Jason Burleson and Tony Williamson and performed at regional festivals and events during the 1990’s before going on hiatus for twenty years.
2020, the group re-emerged featuring Gallion (guitar) plus new members Chad Day (banjo), Jamie Carter (bass), Savannah Reed (mandolin), Scott Ferguson (fiddle) and Tucker McCandless (guitar).
2022, released several singles to radio on their own label.

Akeman, David (“Stringbean”)

Posted on October 28, 2013 by WR

DAVID AKEMAN (“STRINGBEAN”)

Native of Annville, Kentucky.
The first banjo player in Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys (1942-1945). Played “clawhammer” style.
Was replaced in Bill Monroe’s band by Earl Scruggs.
Nickname: “Stringbean” (or “The Kentucky Wonder”).
From 1945 until his death in 1973, was one of the most popular comedy performers on the Grand Ole Opry.
His costume–a long striped shirt, with his pants down around his knees and a funny little hat that he would flip just before striking his banjo.
He became a regular on the original “Hee Haw” television show.
Died Saturday night, November 10, 1973, after a Grand Ole Opry performance. Was gunned down in his front yard by robbers who were there when he returned home.

Aldridge, Darin and Brooke

Posted on October 28, 2013October 2, 2020 by WR

DARIN AND BROOKE ALDRIDGE; See also CIRCUIT RIDERS

From Cherryville, North Carolina.
Darin is a multi-instrumentalist and music teacher.
1995, Darin played with an Americana group called “Acoustic Syndicate.”
1997, Darin joined the Country Gentlemen, playing mandolin. He recorded three albums with them and played the 2005 presidential inauguration in Washington DC.
2001, Darin released his first solo project “In Time” (no label).
2004, Darin recorded a second solo project “Call It a Day” (Pinecastle).
2005, with other former members of the Country Gentlemen, Darin formed a band called the Circuit Riders.
2008, Darin produced an album for Brooke Justice, a gospel singer. They eventually married and began performing together.
2010, the couple released their debut album Darin & Brooke Aldridge (Mountain Home).
2011, released So Much in Between album (Mountain Home) with hit single “Lonely Ends Where Love Begins.”
2012, released Live at Red White Bluegrass album (Mountain Home).
2013, added fiddler, songwriter and vocalist Becky Buller to their band.
2013, released Flying album (Mountain Home), a mix of bluegrass and new country.
2014, fiddler and vocalist Carley Arrowood replaced Becky Buller in their band.
2015, released Snapshots album (Mountain Home).
2016, did a tour with John Cowan.
2017, released Faster & Farther album (Mountain Home).
2019, released Inner Journey album (Rounder).
2020, Brooke won her fourth IBMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year (also won in 2017, 2018 and 2019).

All 4 Hym

Posted on October 28, 2013April 20, 2019 by WR

ALL 4 HYM

From Front Royal, Virginia.
A family band featuring Chester Kreitzer (guitar), Terri Kreitzer (vocals) and Cory Kreitzer (mandolin).
Formed in 1997.
Play bluegrass gospel music.
2008, first CD was produced by J.D. Crowe.
2011, released second CD “Faith and Family.”
2013, went on a sabbatical (not accepting bookings).

Allen, Harley

Posted on October 28, 2013December 22, 2017 by WR

HARLEY ALLEN (THE ALLEN BROTHERS)

From Dayton, Ohio. Lived in Nashville.
Youngest son of bluegrass Hall 0f Famer Red Allen.
1968, began performing at age 12 with brothers Greg, Neal and Ronnie. They recorded two albums as The Allen Brothers. They disbanded in 1974 when Neal passed away from pneumonia while on the road.
1975, joined J.D. Crowe’s band, taking his father’s place in the Kentucky Mountain Boys.
1982-1985, formed a band with Mike Lilly called the Allen-Lilly Band.
1988, worked with Tony Trischka’s “Big Dogs.”
1990, moved to Nashville to pursue career as a solo artist and songwriter.
1996, recorded first solo album for Mercury Records “Another River.” Recorded second album “Live at the Bluebird” in 2001.
2000, appeared on the soundtrack to the movie “O Brother Where Art Thou.” Won a Grammy for his work on that recording.
As a songwriter, he has written hundreds of songs recorded by such artists as Alan Jackson, Josh Turner, Daryl Worley, the Grascals, Dierks Bentley, Garth Brooks, Emmylou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, many others.
2004, won third Grammy for his work on “Livin’, Lovin’, Losin’: The Songs of the Louvin Brothers.”
2005, won BMI’s “Songwriter of the Year” award.
March 30, 2011, died of lung cancer at age 55.

Allen, Red

Posted on October 28, 2013January 7, 2022 by WR

RED ALLEN (AND THE KENTUCKIANS)

From Pigeon Roost, Kentucky. Lived in Dayton, Ohio for most of his career. Given name: Harley Allen.
Formed his band The Kentuckians in the early 1950’s. Over the years, it included such musicians as Bill Keith, Frank Wakefield, David Grisman, Porter Church, Bill Emerson and Scott Stoneman.
Mid-1950’s, teamed up with Sonny and Bobby Osborne to form the earliest recorded version of the Osborne Brothers.
Once filled in for Lester Flatt (with Earl Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys) when Lester suffered a heart attack.
Late 1960’s, worked with J.D. Crowe and Doyle Lawson in the Kentucky Mountain Boys.
1964, released “Red Allen, Frank Wakefield and the Kentuckians: Bluegrass” album (Folkways).
1966, released “Red Allen and the Kentuckians” album (County). Re-released in 2004 by Rebel Records under the title Lonesome and Blue.
Sons Harley, Greg, Ronnie and Neal performed and recorded together as The Allen Brothers in the early seventies.
1973, released “Allengrass” album (Lemco) with his sons.
1973, released “My Old Kentucky Home” album (King Bluegrass) with his sons.
1975, released “Red Allen Favorites” album (King Bluegrass).
1976, retired from music for several years due largely to health problems.
1983, released “The Red Allen Tradition” album (Folkways).
1984, formed another band, The New Kentuckians.
1992, recorded Bluegrass Reunion album (Acoustic Disk) with David Grisman, Herb Pederson and Jerry Garcia which was nominated for a Grammy Award.
April 3, 1993, died of lung cancer.
2005, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame.

Alternate Roots

Posted on October 28, 2013 by WR

ALTERNATE ROOTS

From Jefferson, North Carolina.
Formed in 1997.
Members included Scott Freeman (mandolin), Willard Gayheart (guitar), Katy Taylor (lead vocals), Randy Pasley (resophonic guitar), Tony Testerman (bass).
Gayheart and Freeman were previously with Skeeter and the Skidmarks.
Freeman is a songwriter whose songs have been recorded by IIIrd Tyme Out, other bands.
Last performance: January 2006.

Alltop, Travis

Posted on October 28, 2013October 17, 2022 by WR

TRAVIS ALLTOP

From Grafton, Ohio. Lives in Stanford, Kentucky.
Began playing guitar at age 6.
1997, released first album “Two Different Worlds” (no label).
1998, played with a band from Parkersburg, West Virginia called “License to Drive.”
1998, played briefly with the Larry Stephenson Band.
1999, joined Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike.
2002, left the road as a touring musician to pursue his call to the ministry.
2007, became pastor of Bluegrass Pike Baptist Church in Danville, Kentucky.
2013, released “The Hallelujah Side,” a gospel album (no label).

Amos, Bob

Posted on October 29, 2013July 4, 2023 by WR

BOB AMOS (SEE ALSO FRONT RANGE)

From St. Johnsbury, Vermont.
1988-2004, fronted a Colorado-based band called Front Range. He recorded 7 albums with this band.
He plays guitar, sings, writes songs, and has a Masters Degree in geology.
2004, embarked on a solo career, releasing his first solo project, “Borrowed Time.”
With a band made up of top New England musicians, he performs as Bob Amos and Catamount Crossing. He also performs regularly with his daughter Sarah (vocalist) as a duo.
2023, Bob & Sarah Amos released Ever Onward album (Bristlecone).

American Drive

Posted on October 28, 2013February 26, 2015 by WR

AMERICAN DRIVE

From Ohio/Eastern Kentucky area.
Formed in 2012 by former members of J.D.Crowe’s band “The New South” (after Crowe retired.)
Original members: Ricky Wasson (guitar), Dwight McCall (mandolin), Matt DeSpain (Dobro™), Justin Jenkins (banjo) and Kyle Perkins (bass).
2012, released first album American Drive (Rural Rhythm).
2013, Wasson and Jenkins left the band and were replaced by Adam McIntosh (guitar) and Shayne Bartley (banjo). Dwight McCall assumed leadership of the band.
2015, disbanded.

Anderson, Amanda and Scott

Posted on October 29, 2013January 7, 2015 by WR

THE AMANDA AND SCOTT ANDERSON BAND

From Palatka, Florida.
A father-daughter duo. Scott plays bass and banjo; Amanda plays fiddle and sings.
1989, Scott played bass and banjo with The Bluegrass Parlor Band while attending the University of Florida.
1993, Scott formed a band called Endless Highway.
1999, Scott joined a gospel group called Gentle River.
2001, Scott formed The Scott Anderson Band, playing what he calls “Swampgrass.”
2001, Scott released solo project “Rivers” with guests Wayne Benson, John Cowan, Rob Ickes, Scott Vestal, Missy Raines, Aubrey Haynie, others.
Scott is also a pharmacist and teaches at the University of Florida (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Pharmacy).
2008, Scott began performing with hi s 14-year old daughter Amanda and released “Amanda and Scott Anderson: Another Day.”
2011, released solo project “Tales from the Swamp” with guests Stuart Duncan, Aubrey Haynie, Adam Steffey, Sierra Hull, others.
2011, toured with Cory and Jarrod Walker.
2012, formed the Amanda and Scott Anderson Band with Danny Smith (bass), Lamont Goff (mandolin), Christian Ward (fiddle), and Darren Wainright (guitar).
2014, Amanda graduated from the University of Florida and entered dental school.

Anderson, Bill

Posted on October 29, 2013February 13, 2020 by WR

BILL ANDERSON

From Columbia, South Carolina (lives in Nashville)
Primarily a country singer and songwriter, known to millions as “Whisperin’ Bill.”
Has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1961.
Has had over 80 of his own singles reach the country charts, including “Still,” “Bright Lights and Country Music,” “Po’ Folks.”
Has written dozens of songs which were hits for other artists, beginning with “City Lights” (Ray Price) in 1958, which Bill wrote at age 19. Recent chart toppers: Alison Krauss/Brad Paisley hit “Whiskey Lullaby” (2005) and George Strait’s “Give It Away” (2007). Both of those songs won the CMA Award for Song of the Year.
2001, inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
2007, recorded “Whisperin’ Bluegrass,” his first bluegrass album, with guest appearances from Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and Vince Gill.

Anderson, Lynn

Posted on October 29, 2013October 4, 2020 by WR

LYNN ANDERSON

Born in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Grew up in Sacramento, California.
Her mother, Liz Anderson, wrote several hit songs for Merle Haggard.
1967, joined the cast of Lawrence Welk’s TV show.
1968, won Academy of Country Music award for Best Female Vocalist.
1970, released her biggest hit record, “Rose Garden” (written by Joe South). Won Grammy for “Best Country Performance, Female.”
1971, won CMA award for Best Female Vocalist and ACM award for Top Female Vocalist.
Recorded dozens of top ten hits during the 70’s and early 80’s including “You’re My Man,” “How Can I Unlove You,” and “Top of the World.”
Her first success was in showing horses. She won 700 trophies for her quarter horses and was 1966 California Horse Show Queen. Lynn’s daughter Lisa is also a champion rider.
2004, released “The Bluegrass Sessions,” which was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Bluegrass category.
2015, died at the age of 67 (heart attack).

Andes, Mike

Posted on January 23, 2014 by WR

MIKE ANDES

From Timberville, Virginia. Lives in Pataskala, Ohio.
Began playing mandolin and singing at age 14.
1983, joined the East Coast Bluegrass Band.
1994, founded the group Nothin’ Fancy, singing lead and harmony vocals, playing mandolin and serving as the group’s emcee.
He has won numerous SPBGMA Awards including Entertainer of the Year.
2013, released a solo project “The Songs I Sing” on his own label.

Anger, Darol

Posted on October 29, 2013May 9, 2022 by WR

DAROL ANGER

From Oakland, California. Lives in Arlington, Massachusetts.
An award-winning, genre-crossing violinist, fiddler and composer. Plays what he calls “Chambergrass.”
1982-1985, won “Best Jazz Violinist” four years in a row from Frets Magazine Reader’s Poll.
Has recorded and performed with such artists as Mike Marshall, David Grisman, Stephane Grapelli, Mark O’Connor, Bela Fleck, Vassar Clements, Tony Rice.
Bands: The Republic of Strings, The Island String Quartet (jazz), Psychograss, The Anger/Marshall Band, The Montreux Band, The David Grisman Quintet, New Grange, Darol Anger and Mike Marshall, The Monster String Quartet and others.
Darol can be heard on NPR’s “Car Talk” theme every week, along with Earl Scruggs, David Grisman and Tony Rice.
He is an associate professor at the Berklee School of Music. He is also available as a teacher of violin.
2015, formed a band called Mr. Sun and released albums The People Need Light and Extrovert (Compass Records).

Antique Persuasion

Posted on November 21, 2015January 7, 2022 by WR

ANTIQUE PERSUASION

From Nashville.
A project band/vocal trio featuring Brandon Rickman (guitar), Jenee Fleenor (guitar, mandolin, fiddle) and Brennan Leigh (guitar, mandolin).
Rickman was a member of the Lonesome River Band.
Fleenor toured regularly with the Blake Shelton Band.
Leigh was an Austin, Texas-based singer/songwriter.
2015, released Don’t Forget Me Little Darling: Remembering the Carter Family (Voxhall Records).

Appalachian Road Show

Posted on November 3, 2018October 8, 2022 by WR

APPALACHIAN ROAD SHOW

From east Tennessee.
Formed in 2018 by Barry Abernathy (banjo) and Darrell Webb (guitar/mandolin). The band includes Jim Van Cleve (fiddle), Todd Phillips (bass), and Zeb Snyder (guitar).
Their purpose is to “celebrate the broad musical heritage, culture, and lifestyle of the great Appalachian people.”
2018, released self titled album (Billy Blue).
2020, released Tribulation album (Billy Blue).
2022, released Jubilation album (Billy Blue).

Appalachian Trail

Posted on October 29, 2013 by WR

APPALACHIAN TRAIL

From Bristol, Virginia.
Formed in 1984 by Ricky and Linda Barker.
Featuring the lead vocals of Linda Barker, the group eventually became known as “Linda Barker and Appalachian Trail.”
1997, Linda Barker (Linda Barker Lay) married David Lay, who also replaced Ricky Barker in the band, playing guitar.
2000, Linda and David Lay toured and recorded with the “Masters of the Steel String Guitar.”
2003, Linda Lay recorded a solo project for the Cracker Barrel record label, as well as an album with husband David and David McLaughlin called Springfield Exit.
2004, after a long hiatus, Appalachian Trail reorganized with new members: Tommy Austin (mandolin/mandola), Tim Laughlin (fiddle), Glen Rose (banjo), Josh Goforth (guitar/banjo/fiddle).
2011, Matthew Cruby (banjo) and Allen Hughes (guitar)

Arkansauce

Posted on April 14, 2023 by WR

ARKANSAUCE

From Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Formed in 2010 by Zac Archuleta (guitar) and Ethan Bush (mandolin). Others members: Tom Andersen (bass) and Adams Collins (banjo).
They routinely perform at rock music venues rather than the bluegrass festival circuit.
2016, released two albums: All Day Long (no label) and Hambone (no label).
2017, released If I Were You album (no label).
2019, released Maybe Someday album (no label).
2023, released OK to Wonder album (no label).

Armsworthy, Jay (and Eastern Tradition)

Posted on October 29, 2013December 22, 2020 by WR

JAY ARMSWORTHY (and EASTERN TRADITION)

From California, Maryland (south of Washington DC).
A guitarist and singer who began his career playing with Ernie Bradley and Grassy Ridge. Later formed his own band Eastern Tradition.
1995, worked with David Davis and the The Warrior River Boys.
For seven years, he hosted a radio program called “Bluegrass on the Bay” on WMDM and WPTX in Lexington, Maryland. He also has hosted a radio show on World Wide Bluegrass.com, WNNT (VA), and WWSM (PA).
2005, released Making Memories album (no label).
2011, released I Couldn’t Make It Without Him album (Blue Circle), produced by Greg Luck.
2020, released My Best Friend album (Patuxent).

Arneson, Keith

Posted on October 29, 2013January 30, 2019 by WR

KEITH ARNESON (SEE ALSO COUNTRY CURRENT)

From Waldorf, Maryland.
1977, learned guitar and banjo as a teenager and formed his first band called Classic Grass.
1981, joined Mountain Laurel.
1986, joined The Dixie Ramblers, recording two albums with that group.
1993, replaced Bill Emerson in the U.S. Navy Band Country Current, playing banjo and guitar.
2001, recorded “Keith Arneson and Wayne Taylor” album (with his former bandmate Wayne Taylor).
2007, replaced Taylor as unit leader of the Navy Band. His rank is Senior Chief Musician.
2017, retired from the Navy Band. He continues to perform with Wayne Taylor and other Washington DC area musicians.

Arnold, Jimmy

Posted on October 29, 2013October 29, 2018 by WR

JIMMY ARNOLD

From Fries, Virginia.
A gifted multi-instumentalist (guitar, banjo, fiddle).
Bluegrass Unlimited magazine called him “Don Reno, Bill Keith and Earl Scruggs rolled into one.”
Age 12, formed a band called the “Twin County Partners.”
Age 15, won the fiddle contest at the Galax Old Time Fiddler’s Convention.
Age 17, formed a band with Wes Golding called “The Virginia Cutups.”
Age 19, joined Cliff Waldron’s “New Shades of Grass.”
1973, was a member of “The Country Store” a group that also included Jimmy Gaudreau and Keith Whitley.
1974, recorded “Strictly Arnold” album (Rebel).
1977, recorded “Jimmy Arnold Guitar” album (Rebel)
1982, released “Rainbow Ride” album (Rebel).
1983, recorded “Southern Soul” album (Rebel).
Had recurring health and legal problems due to alcohol and drug abuse. Retired from music in in the 1980’s and opened a tattoo parlor in North Carolina.
1992, died of heart failure on Christmas Day at the age of 40.

Arrowood, Carley

Posted on March 13, 2020 by WR

CARLEY ARROWOOD

From Forest City, North Carolina.
Learned to play violin (classical) and then fiddle. Formed her own band at age 10 (in 2006).
2011, while in high school, played in a band called Most Wanted Bluegrass, performing at Dollywood theme park and local festivals.
2013, also in high schoo, formed a group with her sister called Carolina Jasmine, the first all-female group to win the band contest at Fiddlers Grove.
2015, joined Darin and Brooke Aldridge, playing fiddle and singing harmony.
2017, won the IBMA’s Momentum Award for Instrumentalist of the Year.
2020, signed with Mountain Home records as a solo artist.

Ash & W

Posted on October 29, 2013January 7, 2022 by WR

ASH & W

From Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
A short-lived band (1989-1991) featuring Vernon Allred (bass), Craig Smith (banjo), Scott Huffman (guitar) and Tony Williamson (mandolin).
The name is an acronym of the four band members: A (Allred), S (Smith), H (Huffman) and W (Williamson).
1990, released self-titled album (Rebel).

Ash Breeze

Posted on February 9, 2014July 19, 2018 by WR

ASH BREEZE

From Moore County, North Carolina.
Formerly known as The Smith Family Band, featuring dad Allen Smith (bass) and his four kids: Nellie (vocals and fiddle), Corey (guitar), Eli (mandolin) and Luke (banjo).
The band members were classically-trained as children but gravitated to bluegrass.
Their name comes from a sailing term referring to the ability to row a sailboat when there’s no wind (oars are typically made of ash.) “Sailing by ash breeze” is a major theme (overcoming struggle) in the book Carry on Mr Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham, a Smith family favorite.
2014, released Ash Breeze album (Mountain Fever).
2015, released The Road’s Not Easy album (Mountain Fever).

Atkins, Bobby (and the Countrymen)

Posted on November 1, 2013March 29, 2022 by WR

BOBBY ATKINS (AND THE COUNTRYMEN)

From Summerfield, North Carolina
Plays banjo and leads band, “The Countrymen”
1953, worked and recorded with Jim Eanes
1953, 1958, 1961, worked with Bill Monroe (3 separate stints).
1956, worked with Charlie Monroe
Tony Rice was a member of Atkins’ band the Countrymen when he was 18 years old.
1972, appeared in the movie “Preacher Man.”
Bobby is related to country legend Chet Atkins. (His grandfather and Chet’s grandfather are brothers).
He performed for many years with his son Mark as “Bobby and Mark Atkins and the Countrymen.”
2022, he died at the age of 88.

Auldridge, Mike

Posted on November 1, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

MIKE AULDRIDGE

From Washington, D.C.
One of bluegrass music’s best known and most influential Dobro™ (resophonic guitar) players.
Besides his work with the Seldom Scene and other bands, he appeared on recordings with Linda Ronstadt, Hank Williams, Jr., Emmylou Harris, James Taylor, Ry Cooder and many others.
Learned Dobro™ after hearing “Uncle Josh” Graves. Bought his first Dobro™ from Graves for $150.
First band: “The South Mountain Boys” (when he was in high school.)
He is also a graphic artist. He designed several of the Seldom Scene’s early album covers as well as the logo for Bluegrass Unlimited magazine.
Nickname: “Larry the Legend.”
1967, first professional job: Cliff Waldron and Bill Emerson’s band “The New Shades of Grass.”
1971, was an original member of The Seldom Scene.
1972, released his signature album of Dobro instrumentals Dobro (Tacoma).
1974, released second album Blues and Bluegrass (Tacoma).
1977, released album Mike Auldridge (Flying Fish).
1978, released Slidin’ Smoke (Flying Fish) with pedal steel player Jeff Newman.
1978, released “Mike Auldridge and Old Dog” (Flying Fish) with Phil Rosenthal’s Connecticut band “Old Dog.”
1982, released Eight-String Swing album (Sugar Hill) featuring an 8-string resonator guitar.
1989, released “High Time” (Sugar Hill) with Lou Reid and T. Michael Coleman.
1990, released Untold Stories album with Tony Rice, Doc Watson and John Starling (Sugar Hill).
1993, formed Chesapeake with Jimmy Gaudreau, Moondi Klein and T. Michael Coleman.
1998, toured with Lyle Lovett.
1999, formed Auldridge, Bennett and Gaudreau with Jimmy Gaudreau (mandolin) and Richard Bennett (guitar).
2001, recorded an album with Jim Heffernan and Hal Rugg called The Resocasters (no label).
2007, was presented with an IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award.
2012, received the National Endowment of the Arts National Heritage Fellowship – the nation’s highest honor in folk and traditional arts.
2012, died of prostate cancer on December 29.
2014, was inducted into the IBMA’s Hall of Fame as an original member of the Seldom Scene.
2014, the album Three Bells was released featuring Auldridge, Jerry Douglas and Rob Ickes (Rounder). In 2015, this album won the IBMA Award for Instrumental Recording of the Year.

Austin Lounge Lizards

Posted on November 1, 2013February 25, 2020 by WR

THE AUSTIN LOUNGE LIZARDS

From Austin, Texas.
Known as the most laughable band in bluegrass, they perform original satirical music in clubs in and around Austin. They are on the forefront of the movement to “keep Austin weird.”
Original name: The Lounge Lizards, but discovered that the name was in use, so they added “Austin.”
Formed in 1980 by Tom Pittman (banjo, fiddle), Hank Card (guitar) and Conrad Deisler (guitar and mandolin). Pittman retired from the band in 2011. They were joined by Darcie Deaville (2008, fiddle and mandolin) and Bruce Jones (2010, bass).
1983, won the Kerrville (TX) Bluegrass Festival Band Contest.
Billboard magazine called them “hilarious, endearing and literary.”

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Lizard Vision (Flying Fish, 1992).
Never an Adult Moment (Sugar Hill, 2000).

Authentic Unlimited

Posted on March 25, 2022June 8, 2024 by WR

AUTHENTIC UNLIMITED

From East Tennessee.
Formed in 2022. The core of this band was the final configuration of Doyle Lawson’s band Quicksilver when he retired in December 2021.
From the Quicksilver band: Eli Johnston (banj0), Jerry Cole (bass) and Stephen Burwell (fiddle). New members: Jesse Brock (mandolin) and John Meador (guitar). Meador previously played with his family band Kentucky Just Us.
The name of the band was suggested by Doyle Lawson. Because several band members were songwriters, they had unlimited material. And since they were committed to playing authentic bluegrass music, “Authentic Unlimited” emerged as their band name. They also discovered that their initials AU is the symbol for gold on the periodic table. The symbol comes from the Latin word aurum, which means “shining dawn” or “gold.” So they incorporated AU into their band imaging to represent that they are now the “gold standard” for bluegrass music.
2022, released first self-titled album (Billy Blue) and simultaneously released The Gospel Sessions, Volume 1 (Billy Blue).
2023 (November 24), made their first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry.
2024, released So Much for Forever album (Billy Blue) and simultaneously released The Gospel Sessions, Volume 2 (Billy Blue).

Zonn, Andrea

Posted on January 6, 2014 by WR

ANDREA ZONN

From Champaign, Illinois. Lives in Nashville.
She and Alison Krauss are from the same town, and were good friends growing up. They competed in fiddle contests against each other. Had the same violin teacher.
Began playing fiddle at age 2.
As a child, performed in a group with her father called The Heartland Band. Later called Fourth Stream.
Moved to Nashville to play at Opryland as a teenager. Was part of the Brenda Lee Show.
Has a BA in music from Vanderbilt University (in classical violin).
1988-1990, worked with Tony Trischka and the Big Dogs.
1991, toured with Vince Gill and has been a member of his touring band ever since.
Early 1994, toured with Pam Tillis.
1994, formed her own band called Twilight Zonn—playing country, rock, bluegrass.
1994, toured with Lyle Lovett.
As a session musician, has worked on recordings by Ronnie Milsap, Randy Travis, George Strait, Steve Wariner, Trisha Yearwood, Vince Gill, many others.
2003, released solo album “Love Goes On.”
2003, toured with James Taylor.
2004, worked with the Alison Brown Quartet
She recently received graduate degree from Union Theological Seminary, with an emphasis in counseling. She is an ordained minister.
2010, toured with James Taylor and Carole King.
2013, toured with Trace Adkins.

Young, Vern

Posted on January 6, 2014June 17, 2019 by WR

VERN YOUNG

- From Lamar, Missouri. Originally from Rochester, New York.
- Began performing at age 12.
- His real name is Guy Lewis Young. While working at a radio station, his boss requested that he change his name. Someone suggested “Vern” and the name stuck.
- 1951, he played guitar and sang lead with Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys (replacing Jimmy Martin) for on one short tour (10 days).
- During his early performing days, he worked with Ernest Tubb, Little Jimmy Dickens, Hank Thompson, Grandpa Jones, and other traditional country artists.
- Moved to Utah where he worked worked as a DJ on radio station KSOP. He also worked as a deputy sheriff in Salt Lake City. He was featured in “True Detective” magazine for his arrest of a notorious criminal.
- 1989, returned to his music career and formed the Vern Young Band.
- He received the Male Vocalist of the Year 11 times by SPBGMA in Missouri.
- 2002, was inducted into the Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame.
- 2010, was presented a proclamation by the Governor of Missouri for his 72 years in music.
- 2012, retired from performing at age 88.
- 2019, died at the age of 95.

Wywrot, Thomas

Posted on January 4, 2014June 11, 2024 by WR

THOMAS WYWROT

From Dryden, Ontario, Canada; Lives in Nashville.
As a teenager, played guitar with a family band called the Muddy River Boys.
2005, played banjo with the Mark Newton Band.
2005-6, played guitar with the Boohers.
2006-8, played banjo and guitar with Alecia Nugent..
2008, joined the Isaacs, playing banjo and guitar.
2010, released solo project “Every Time I Walk this Road” (no label).
2011, retired from music except to play occasional fill-in dates when asked to do so. He works in the healthcare industry.
2015, released “The Bluegrass Gospel EP” (no label)

Volume Five

Posted on January 2, 2014January 29, 2024 by WR

VOLUME FIVE

From Mississippi.
Formed in 2009.
Original members: Glen Harrell (fiddle & lead vocals), Patton Wages (banjo), Chris Williamson (bass), Jesse Daniel (mandolin), Adam Duke (guitar). Duke was later replaced by Colby Laney. All were previously sidemen in other bands (Marty Raybon, Randy Kohrs, Tony Rice Unit).
2010, released first album Down In A Cell (Mountain Fever).
2011, released Children of the Mountain album (Mountain Fever).
2013, released Run album (Mountain Fever).
2013, Laney (guitar) was replaced by Jeff Partin. Daniel (mandolin) was replaced by Harry Clark (formerly with the Roys).
2014, released a gospel album The Day We Learn To Fly (Mountain Fever).
2014, Laney (guitar) returned to the band.
2015, released Voices album (Mountain Fever).
2016, Jacob Burleson (mandolin) joined the band, replacing Harry Clark. Jacob is the son of Jason Burleson, banjo player with Blue Highway.
2016, released Drifter album (Mountain Fever).
2017, won IBMA Awards for Emerging Artist of the Year and Song of the Year (for “I Am a Drifter” from their Drifter album).
2018, released Milestones album (Mountain Fever).
2019, Laney (guitar) left the band. Burleson (mandolin) switched to guitar and Adam Steffey joined, playing mandolin.
2019, released For Those Who Care to Listen album (Mountain Fever).
2020, Aaron Ramsey joined the band, replacing Adam Steffey (mandolin). Kameron Kelley also joined, playing bass. New band lineup: Glen Harrell (fiddle, lead vocals), Patton Wages (banjo), Jacob Burleson (guitar), Aaron Ramsey (mandolin) and Kameron Keller (bass).
2022, Jacob Eller joined the band, replacing Kameron Keller on bass.
2022, released Karma album (Mountain Fever).

VW Boys, The

Posted on January 2, 2014January 6, 2016 by WR

THE VW BOYS

From Blountville, Tennessee.
Formed by Tim White and Dave Vaught in 1997. Larry McPeak of the McPeak Brothers joined them about a year later.
A bluegrass band that features magic and comedy “to provide a complete entertainment experience. They perform at amusement parks like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN and have worked with Jerry Clower and Don Knotts.
2005, released Snappy Lunch album (Fat Dog).
2007, released Retroactive album (Fat Dog)
2009, Larry McPeak was replaced by “Fat Albert” Blackburn. McPeak has had ongoing health problems.
2010, released VW Boys Greatest Hits album (Fat Dog).
2011, released Big Fat Earl album (Fat Dog).

Urban Monroes, The

Posted on January 1, 2014January 2, 2014 by WR

THE URBAN MONROES

From Spokane, Washington
Band members: Fran Kent (guitar and vocals), Matt Gray (banjo), Jeff Shippy (fiddle) and Jason Mellow (bass).
2008, released “One Fret Makes a Difference” album.
2010, released “Pavement and Pathways” album.

Tyminski, Dan

Posted on December 31, 2013September 9, 2024 by WR

DAN TYMINSKI

From Rutland, Vermont. Lives in Ferrum, Virginia and Nashville.
First band: played banjo with Green Mountain Bluegrass. Older brother Stan played mandolin.
1988, joined the Lonesome River Band. Originally hired to play banjo, but switched to mandolin.
1992, worked with Alison Krauss and Union Station for one year, playing guitar.
1993, returned to the Lonesome River Band.
1994, returned to Alison Krauss and Union Station.
2000, released dsolo project and sang on soundtrack for the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou” starring George Clooney. Clooney lip-synced to Dan’s lead vocal on “Man of Constant Sorrow.”
2000, formed The Dan Tyminski Band with Ron Block, Barry Bales and Jeff White.
2001, won the CMA award for Single of the Year (“Man of Constant Sorrow”) and performed it on the CMA Awards Show broadcast with AKUS, Pat Enright and Vince Gill (as the Soggy Bottom Boys).
2003, released Carry Me Across The Mountain album (Rounder).
2003, co-hosted the 2003 IBMA Awards show with Alison Krauss.
2007, re-formed the Dan Tyminski Band with Ron Stewart, Adam Steffey, Barry Bales and Justin Moses.
2008, released Wheels album (Rounder).
2009, won his fourth IBMA Award for Male Vocalist of the Year (also won in 2001, 2002 and 2003). He also won the IBMA award for Album of the Year (Wheels).
2014, sang on a pop recording by electronic dance DJ Avicii called “Hey Brother” which went to #1 in 18 countries and sold more than a billion copies..
2017, released solo project under the name Tyminski, Southern Gothic (Mercury Nashville).
2021, re-formed the Dan Tyminski Band with Gaven Largent (resophonic guitar), Maddie Denton (fiddle), Jason Davis (banjo), Grace Davis (bass) and Harry Clark (mandolin).
2022, released One More Time Before You Go album, a tribute to Tony Rice (North Star).
2024, released Dan Tyminski: Live From the Ryman album (8 Track Entertainment).

Swinson, Billy

Posted on February 19, 2023 by WR

BILLY SWINSON

From Richlands, North Carolina. Lives in Jacksonville, FL.
At age 15 (early 90’s), began playing mandolin with several regional North Carolina bands.
1996 formed a band named Code Blue with Jimmy Fraley (Formerly of A Deeper Shade of Blue) and Greg Martin (currently with Billy Droze).
2000-2002 Played mandolin with the Donna Hughes band in NC.
2001, joined Constant Change (Benson, NC) and Common Ground (Charleston, SC).
2003, moved to Jacksonville, FL and played mandolin with Ernie Evans and the Florida State Bluegrass Band.
2019, formed a Florida band called Greener Grass.
2021, joined The Billy Lee Cox Project.
2022, joined Deano Graham and the Grass Wagon Revival.
2023, released first single “Greener Grass” from album by the same name (no label).

Russell, Johnny

Posted on December 22, 2013December 26, 2015 by WR

JOHNNY RUSSELL

From Sunflower County, Mississippi. Grew up in Fresno, California.
Billed himself as “the biggest act in country music” because of his large size. His famous opening line on the Grand Ole Opry was “Can you see me all right?”
A successful songwriter, who wrote hits for Jim Reeves, Buck Owens, Loretta Lynn and the Beatles.
As a singer and recording artist (RCA) he scored hits with “The Baptism of Jesse Taylor,” “Rednecks, White Socks and Blue Ribbon Beer,” and several others.
His biggest song “Act Naturally” was a hit for both Buck Owens and the Beatles.
1985, joined the Grand Ole Opry. He not only performed as a singer but as a comedian. A large man, one of his favorite opening lines was “Can you see me alright?”
2000, recorded a bluegrass album Actin’ Naturally (OMS) with guests Buck Owens, Earl Scruggs, Bobby Osborne, Benny Martin, Dolly Parton, the Whites, others.
2001, died at the age of 60.

Pyatt, Dale

Posted on December 21, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

DALE PYATT

From Viburnern, Missouri (in the Ozarks). Grew up in Columbia, Missouri.
A singer/songwriter who co-wrote the song “Life Goes On,” from the award-winning album Life Goes On by “Musicians Against Childhood Cancer.”
Wrote “Run Secretariat Run” which was performed at the 2011 Secretariat Festival in Louisville.
2013, released project of his original songs Dale Pyatt & The Chickengrease Band (no label).
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Owens, Caroline

Posted on February 27, 2023February 23, 2024 by WR

CAROLINE OWENS (AND NEW COMPANY)

From Denton, North Carolina.
Began singing at the age of 2. Decided to become a bluegrass singer at age 13.
She has won numerous awards as a vocalist. She accompanies herself on guitar.
2021, formed the Caroline Band.
2022, was invited to showcase at the IBMA World of Bluegrass.
2023, at age 21 released her first single “Heartbreak Train” (Skyline Records)
2024, changed her band name to New Company.

Nygaard, Scott

Posted on December 18, 2013December 22, 2015 by WR

SCOTT NYGAARD

From the San Francisco Bay area. Originally from Athens, Ohio.
A highly regarded flat-pick guitarist.
1988-1991, worked with Laurie Lewis and Grant Street.
1991-1997, worked with Tim O’Brien and the O’Boys.
Has since worked with Jerry Douglas, Chris Thile, Tony Furtado, David Grisman, Darol Anger, Sharon Gilchrist, Kleptograss, other bands. Also performs as a solo act.
He has released two solo projects on Rounder Records: No Hurry (1990) and Dreamer’s Waltz (1996).
He is editor or Acoustic Guitar magazine.

Mustered Courage

Posted on October 20, 2014January 30, 2015 by WR

MUSTERED COURAGE

From Melbourne, Australia.
A Newgrass quartet formed in 2010 by Nick Keeling (banjo), Julian Abrahams (guitar), Paddy Montgomery (mandolin) and Josh Bridges (bass).
Keeling is originally from Texas. The others are Australian.
Montgomery plays a left-handed mandolin.
2011, released first album Mustered Courage (no label).
2014, released Powerlines album (Travianna Records).
2014, toured the US and showcased at IBMA in Raleigh, NC.
2015, won the Country Music Australia Award for Instrumental Recording of the Year (for their song “Candle Creek”).

Autry, Jeff

Posted on November 1, 2013December 13, 2019 by WR

JEFF AUTRY

From Buford, Georgia.
Considered one of the top flatpick guitarists in bluegrass music.
As a A-list studio musician and sideman, he has worked with John Cowan, Sam Bush, Ricky Skaggs, Darrell Scott, Jim Lauderdale, Tony Rice, Bela Fleck, Vasser Clements, Tim O’Brien and John Paul Jones (of Led Zeppelin), to name a few.
1993, joined the Bluegrass Cardinals, replacing David Parmley.
1995-1996, worked with the Lynn Morris Band.
1996-2001, played guitar on the “Bluegrass ’96” series of instrumental recordings for Pinecastle Records.
1997-1998, worked with the Larry Stephenson Band.
1999, released first solo album Foothills (no label).
1999, joined the John Cowan Band.
2014, joined Adkins & Loudermilk (Dave Adkins and Edgar Loudermilk). His son Zack was also in this band, playing mandolin.
2015, after the departure of Adkins, the band name was changed to The Edgar Loudermilk Band featuring Jeff Autry.
2019, suffered a stroke.

Byrd, Senator Robert

Posted on November 6, 2013 by WR

SENATOR ROBERT BYRD

From Sophia, West Virginia. He was born in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.
Served as U.S. Senator from West Virginia for 41 years. He has cast more votes in the Senate than any other Senator in U. S. History.
Learned to play the fiddle at age 12. In his early campaigns, he was known as “Fiddlin’ Bob Byrd.”
1978, recorded an album of fiddle tunes for County Records with members of the Country Gentlemen: Doyle Lawson, James Bailey and Spider Gilliam.
Passed away on June 28, 2010.

Ezra

Posted on February 27, 2024 by WR

EZRA

From Oberlin, Ohio.
Founded by multi-instrumentalist Jesse Jones (guitar/piano). Also Jacob Joliff (mandolin), Max Allard (banj0) and Craig Butterfield (bass).
They describe themselves as a progressive bluegrass chamber ensemble.
They were all students at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Oberlin, Ohio.
2024, released self-titled album (Adhyâropa Records).

Furtado, Tony

Posted on November 21, 2013February 16, 2022 by WR

TONY FURTADO

From the San Franciso Bay area. Moved to Colorado. Now lives in Portland, Oregon.
Began his pro career playing banjo with Laurie Lewis and Grant Street.; and his own group Sugarbeat.
1987, won the National Banjo Championship in Winfield, KS in 1987. Won a second time in 1991.
1989, released Swamped album (Rounder).
1991, released Rounder Banjo Extravaganza album with Tom Adams and Tony Trischka (Rounder).
1994, released Full Circle album (Rounder).
1994, formed a band called Sugarbeat.
1997, released Roll My Blues Away album (Rounder).
1999, formed the Tony Furtado Band, a fusion of country, bluegrass, blues and jazz.
His recording of “I Will” with guest artist Alison Krauss was included on Krauss’ “Now That I’ve Found You” album, which sold over two million copies.
2002, formed The American Gypsies (a jazz group). Released American Gypsy album (no label).
He is also a virtuoso slide (bottleneck) guitar player. He manufactures and sells his own brand of bottleneck slides for the guitar.
He is also a sculptor.

Gulley, Steve

Posted on November 23, 2013August 19, 2020 by WR

STEVE GULLEY (AND NEW PINNACLE)

From East Tennessee.
Began his professional career as musical director and performer at Renfro Valley Barn Dance (Renfro Valley, Kentucky).
1995-1998, sang lead vocals with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.
1998, formed Mountain Heart with Adam Steffey and Barry Abernathy.
2006, left Mountain Heart to form Grasstowne.
2007, released solo project: Sounds Like Home (Lonesome Day Records).
2010, released a duet album with Blue Highway’s Tim Stafford called Dogwood Winter (Rural Rhythm).
2011, left Grasstowne to join Dale Ann Bradley.
2011, released an album of duets with Tim Stafford: Dogwood Winter (Rural Rhythm).
2014, released solo project: Family Friends & Fellowship (Rural Rhythm).
2013, formed his own band New Pinnacle, named as a tribute to his father’s band The Pinnacle Mountain Boys.
2016, released Aim High album (Rural Rhythm).
2016, received an honorary doctorate (Doctor of Music) from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee.
2018, joined Phil Leadbetter’s “All Stars of Bluegrass” to record an album of
2018, became the program director for Lincoln Memorial University’s two radio stations.
2019, released High Peaks and New Ground album (Rural Rhythm)
2019, became morning drive DJ for WDVX radio in Knoxville, Tennessee.
2020, died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 57.

Hylton, Randall

Posted on November 27, 2013April 23, 2022 by WR

RANDALL HYLTON

From Old Hickory, Tennessee. Grew up in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Learned to play guitar at age 5.
Best known as a songwriter. He wrote more than 200 songs which were recorded by such artists as Mac Wiseman, the Osborne Brothers, the Bluegrass Cardinals, the Lewis Family, Doyle Lawson, Larry Sparks, and many others. Notable songs: “Room at the Top of the Stairs,” “Slippers With Wings” and “Hallelujah Turnpike.”
As a performer, he was one of the few artists in bluegrass to work solo often wearing period costumes and mixing his serious material with parodies and impressions.
He gave his guitars names: Denise, Michelle the Blonde Bombshell, Sylvia, Henrietta and Lakeisha.
2001, died at the age of 56.
2022, was inducted into the Blue Ridge Hall of Fame.

Isaacs, The

Posted on November 30, 2013August 11, 2021 by WR

THE ISAACS

From La Follete, Tennessee.
1988, formed by Joe Isaacs, his wife Lily and three children Ben, Becky and Sonya.
Lily was born in Germany after WW2. Her parents were Jewish survivors of the Holocaust.
1998, Sonya toured with Vince Gill as a vocalist. During that time, Adam Steffey filled in on mandolin with the group.
1998, album “Bridges” won the Dove Award for Bluegrass Album of the Year.
1998, Joe and Lily were divorced and Joe began a solo career in music, recording several albums.
1998, John Bowman (formerly with Doyle Lawson and Alison Krauss) joined the group, playing banjo, guitar and fiddle. He is married to Becky.
2000, Adam Steffey playwas a member of the Isaacs for more than a year; left to re-join Mountain Heart.
2001, Rickie Simpkins joined, playing fiddle. Stayed with the group for two years.
2001, Became regulars on the Bill Gaither Homecoming Tour.
2006, John Bowman retired from the group to teach at a private Christian school in LaFollette and to care for his (and Becky’s) children while the group is on the road. In 2010 he joined the Boxcars.
2006, Kevin Haynie (banjo/guitar) and Jesse Stockman (fiddle) joined the group.
2007, Sonya and Becky recorded with Dolly Parton.
2007, Kevin Haynie left the band and was replaced by Troy Engle (banjo/guitar).
2008, Sonya sang on Disney’s Hannah Montana movie soundtrack (starring Miley Cyrus).
2020, The Isaacs were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
2021, The Isaacs were invited to become members of the Grand Ole Opry.

RECOMMENDED ALBUMS:

Songs of the Faith (2000, Horizon)
Heroes (2004, Spring House)
Isaacs Bluegrass-Preserved (2005, Mountain Home)
The Isaacs Naturally: An Almost A Cappella Collection (2008, Gaither Music)
The Isaacs: Christmas (2010, Gaither Music)
Why Can’t We (2011, Gaither Music)
The Living Years (2013, Gaither Music)
Songs for the Times (2020, House of Isaacs)
The American Face (2021, New Day)

Kuykendall, Mark

Posted on November 13, 2015August 31, 2023 by WR

From Asheville, North Carolina.
His last name is pronounced KIR-ken-dall. He is not related to Pete or Kitsy Kuykendall (of Bluegrass Unlimited magazine.)
Kuykendall is a bluegrass veteran who began his professional career working with banjo player Raymond Fairchild. He plays guitar and several other bluegrass instruments.
1979, formed his own band Mark Kuykendall and Smoky Mountain Bluegrass. He recorded one album with that group.
1983, formed Mark Kuykendall and the Grass Cutters.
1990, played bass with Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys.
1993-1996, played bass with Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys. He was Bill’s last bass player.
1996-2015, retired from full-time music to raise his family and devote time to his antique car business.
2015, teamed up with fiddler Bobby Hicks and a band called Asheville Bluegrass to record an album titled Down Memory Lane(Rebel).
2017, released Forever and a Day album (Rebel).
2023, passed away at the age of 60.

Syren, Jussi

Posted on December 26, 2013July 19, 2018 by WR

JUSSI SYREN (AND THE GROUNDBREAKERS)

From Finland.
Syren plays mandolin and sings lead with his band The Groundbreakers. Other band members include Tauri Oksalas (banjo), J.P. Putkonen (guitar), and Kari Hella (bass).
Syren began performing in a rockabilly band called Red Hot. He continues to play in a rockabilly band called the Jussi Syren Rockabilly Revival.
1987, formed the Lake Country Boys.
1995, formed the Groundbreakers.
2004, made first U.S. tour and released album Sea Of Changes (no label).

Pythagoras

Posted on September 17, 2024September 17, 2024 by WR

PYTHAGORAS

From Johnson City, Tennessee
Formed in 2023 by Grant Dresnok (guitar), Gracie Mae Grossman (fiddle), Joe Henson (mandolin), Gabriel Hebert (banjo) and Lexi Wagnitz (bass), all students in East Tennessee State College’s Bluegrass, Old-time and Roots Music program. They come from various parts of the country but live in east Tennessee.
They took the name of the ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras after viewing a now-classic video clip of Carlton Haney explaining his version of the Pythagorean Theorem (as it relates to bluegrass music) to Jimmy Martin.
2024, released first album Theorem (no label).