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2 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 MerleFest brings special shows by over 120 artists MerleFest is known for four days of spe- Mitchell County with William Ritter and cial musical collaborations and themes on 13 Sarah Ogletree at 1 p.m. and by Wayne different stages and this year is no exception. Henderson and Helen White from 3:30 p.m. Ted Hagaman, festival director, said he’s also particularly pleased with the Tributes to Doc and Merle Saturday combination of artists at MerleFest for the Highlights Saturday include three spe- first time and returning festival favorites. cial tributes to Doc and . “Doc’s Show,” hosted by David Holt with Strong Thursday lineup Carol Rifkin and others, is at 10:30 a.m. One of the newcomers, Asheville-based at the Traditional Stage. Underhill Rose, will lead off on the Watson “Memories of Doc and Merle,” hosted by Stage at 3 p.m. Thursday with a blend of T. Michael Coleman with special guests, Americana, R&B, country and bluegrass, is at noon at the Creekside Stage. just 30 minutes after the festival gates open. “ Tribute,” featuring It consists of Eleanor Underhill, Sally Jack Lawrence, David Holt, T. Michael 1430 Second Street 1838 Winkler Street Williamson and Molly Rose. “Joining the Coleman and others, is at 1:45 p.m. on North Wilkesboro Wilkesboro lineup for Merlefest has been a long-time the Watson Stage. goal of ours,” said Underhill in an inter- The popular Hillside Hour, view with the Johnson City Press. hosted by the Waybacks, is on the Hillside The strong first-day Watson Stage lineup Stage at 4 p.m. Joan Osborne and others continues with Scythian (festival favorite, will be featured as music from an entire Welcome particularly among younger fans) at 3 vintage album is performed. The identity p.m., star of the album remains a secret until it is (“I Hope You Dance”) at 5:30 p.m. and performed. husband and wife Bela Fleck and Abigal perform on the Wat- to MerleFest Washburn, well known to MerleFest fans son Stage at 9:30 p.m. Saturday. but not as a duo, at 7 p.m. The Midnight Jam, hosted by Steel Wheels, Hard driving, progressive bluegrass will starts at midnight in the Walker Center. Enjoy the festival be served that night on the Watson Stage by with Red Knuckles and the On Sunday Trailblazers at 8:30 and by Trampled by Sunday at MerleFest begins with devo- But also come see Turtles at 10:15 p.m. tions from 9:30 to 10 a.m. at the Creekside Original Hot Rize members Tim O’Brien, Stage, led by the Rev. Roy Dobyns, former Pete Wernick and Nick Forster and pastor of Wilkesboro Baptist Church and all that’s new! Grammy-winning guitarist Bryan Sut- now pastor of First Baptist Church of Boone. ton, all familiar names to MerleFest fans, A session on shape note singing, a will be at festival for the first time since strong traditon in rural churches of the reuniting a few months ago. southern Appalachians, is at 9:30 a.m. at COUPON the Traditional Stage. Laura Boosinger Special sets Friday will lead this. Saturday’s lineup includes Del McCoury Headliners on the Watson Stage on Buy one, get one and his band performing new songs with Sunday include Paul Thorn at 12:45 p.m., unheard lyrics from the late , at 2:30 p.m. and Dwight at 5:15 p.m. on the Watson Stage. Guthrie’s Yoakam at 4:15 p.m. daughter, , chose 30 songs from The will team with the FREE over 3,000 in the Woody Guthrie archives to Kontras Quartet to add classical sounds present to McCoury to set to music. to the MerleFest musical offering at 11:15 The Marshall Tucker Band performs a.m. on the Watson Stage. on the Watson Stage immediately after Just to share a few more names, the 120- Any large the Woody Guthrie tribute at 6:45 p.m., plus artists booked for this year’s festival followed by the Band at 8:30 also include the Avett Brothers, Steep p.m. and with the North Canyon Rangers, Nashville Bluegrass sandwich Mississippi Allstars at 10:15 p.m. Band, Donna the Buffalo, This offer is good for the purchase of one large sandwich and one The day ends with Scythian performing and Wayne Henderson. free sandwich. Please limit one coupon per customer per visit. as the host in the Dance Tent starting at Up and coming artists to listen for Offer excluded $1 menu items. 10:30 p.m. Friday. include Underhill Rose, Jesse and Noah Great old time music will be performed Bellamy, Brandon Whyde and The Devils Offer good through October 31, 2015 Friday on the Traditional Stage by the Keep, Big Sandy and His Fly Rite Boys, Del Sheets Family Band at 10:30 a.m., by Barber and MIPSO. MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 3 Some basics on MerleFest MerleFest 2015, an annual home- coming music celebration held Headed to MerleFest? since 1988, is April 23-26 at in Wilkesboro. The core missions behind Mer- leFest are to honor the memory Get Geared Up at Cooks! of American music legend Doc Watson, who helped found Mer- leFest, and his son and musical Come check out our store while you’re at MerleFest • We have all your camping supplies! partner, Eddy Merle Watson; to offer the very best in “traditional plus” music; and to raise funds for WCC. The festival is the primary Spring Parking fundraiser for the Wilkes Com- munity College Endowment Corp. Free parking and shuttle ser- vices are provided from the Blue Lot Sale! Lot (Lowe’s Park at River’s Edge), Swing by and enjoy some sunshine, located off N.C. 268 West. The Blue Lot is also an easy half-mile savings, hot dogs and bluegrass! walk to the festival grounds. Saturday only • Huge Savings! Public parking for people with state-issued handicapped parking credentials is at Shuttle Stop H in Up to 75% Off the Blue Lot. Designated shuttles, including wheelchair accessible Friday and Saturday Specials vans, provide transportation to the main festival entrance. All Sandals Four-day reserved seats are in front of the Watson Stage with Buy one, get one half-price (Some exclusions apply) chairs provided and set up. Seat- ing is arranged to meet codes and provide comfort and safety. Fes- All Summer Hats tival policy allows unoccupied 20%-50% Off reserved seats to be used by any- one before 5 p.m. or until owners return. Special wristbands are All White Sierra needed to enter the reserved Outdoor Clothing seating area after 5 p.m. UV protective fabric General admission seating is first-come, first-served at all 30% Off stages. At the Watson Stage, gen- eral admission seating is directly Camping Specials 20% Off behind the reserved seating area. All Camp Stools • All Eureka Chairs Children 12 and younger are Solar Shades and EZ Up Tents admitted for free when with All Hydration Gear a paying adult, except in the (Water bottles, coolers, packs. Excludes Yeti coolers) reserved seating area, where a four-day reserved seating wrist- Get a FREE Hat with purchase of Yeti cooler band is required regardless. All chairs and blankets must If you haven’t visited our store, please come by… You’ll be glad you did! Have a great festival! be removed daily except festival- owned “reserved seats.” On-site, overnight storage is available for free at the Lost & Willow Lane in West Park • North Wilkesboro Found Tent. Children 12 and under get front-of-house seating at the Little Pickers Stage. 667-4121 Tobacco and alcohol products are prohibited at MerleFest. www.cookssports.com 4 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015

3 FIRST CITIZENS LN

Daniel Hall 1

2

Randolph Hall

MerleFest Mall CHRISTIE LN Walker Center 13

Lovette Hall 5 MEADOWVIEW DR. Hayes Hall

Flattop’s Getaway

R & R Tent 12

MerleFest Thompson Hall Little Pickers Gift Shop Family Area 4 The Shoppes Lowe’s Hall at MerleFest 6

9 11 7 10 Heritage Crafts

Legend Alumni Hall COLLEGIATE DR 8

• ATM • Lost & Found 1• Watson Stage 10• Austin Stage CYNTHIA LANE POND RD Cooler/Bag • Autographs • Overnight Storage 2• Cabin Stage 11• Plaza Stage Check

• People w/disabilities • Playground 3• Creekside Stage 12• Hillside Stage

• Elevators • Raffle/ Silent Auction 4• Little Pickers Stage 13• Walker Center Box Office/ Will Call • Expo • Restroom 5• Americana Stage

• Eddy Merle Watson • Security 6• Traditional Stage Shuttle Stop Garden for the Senses Volunteer Check-In • First Aid • WiFi Hotspot 7• Pickin’ Place CAROLINA REALTY LN Access Festival Check-In and RV Lot via Meadowview Drive • Food 8• Dance Stage April 23 - 26, 2015

• Information 9• Mayes Pit Music of MerleFest is presented on 13 different stages 1. Watson Stage, with some of the largest acts and collaborations; 8. Dance Stage, beneath large tent, with everything from clogging to Cajun dances. 2. Cabin Stage, next to the Watson Stage, with some of the best ; 9. Mayes Pit Learning Stage, with instrument instructional sessions and more; 3. Creekside Stage, under tent near Moravian Creek, a pleasant spot for performances; 10. Chris Austin Stage, with some of the best songwriting and music; 4. Little Pickers Family Area, offering activities, games and live music for the young; 11. Plaza Stage, with guitar, , and contests and songwriter’s coffee 5. Americana Stage, offering a relaxed venue on the lawn near the Visitors Center; house, workshops and special performances. 6. Traditional Stage, beneath large tent, featuring traditional music at its best; 12. Hillside Stage, with MerleFest artists up close and jammin’; 7. Pickin’ Place, an area for music fans and musicians to pick and sing together. 13. Walker Center, providing an indoor venue. Home of the Midnight Jam; Welcome MerleFest Fans! NICK & LINDA WEHRMANN APPLEFIELD-REALTORS® 336-667-2254 Nick Linda Ext. 235 Ext. 230 Wilkes County’s Used Car Superstore (336)-466-1414 Cell (336)-984-0833 Cell Largest 119 Old Brickyard Road • North Wilkesboro Selection in the E-mail: [email protected] High Country 3 3 6 - 6 67- 6111 www.specialtycarcompany.com Professional Service x 2 Where our friends, neighbors and superstars buy their cars! MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 5 Legacies of Doc, Rosa Lee, Merle Watson remain When the late Doc Watson became nationally when he was 24 and she was 16, Watson tuned known in the revival of the ‘60s, he brought to support his growing family. forth an image of simple dignity and sensibility for a Eddy Merle was born in 1949, and Nancy Ellen in region stereotyped by comical characters. 1951. In 1953, Doc got a job playing Watson went on to profoundly influence guitarists in a local country band and traded his Martin for a worldwide, including , while living his life . The group often lacked a fiddler and as a testimony to high Christian character. Watson taught himself tunes on the electric Despite his death on May 29, 2012, at 89, Watson’s instrument, in addition to the popular finger-style musical influence and his positive ambassadorship music of and . for his beloved southern Appalachians continues. Smithsonian Institute folklorist “dis- MerleFest helps insure that the legacies of Doc Wat- covered” Watson in 1960 at the Union Grove fiddler’s son and his wife, the late Rosa Lee Watson, and their convention. son, the late Merle Watson, remain a vibrant and posi- Merle joined Doc in 1964 as rhythm guitarist and WATSON FAMILY- tive force - particularly in northwest . eased most of the burdens of the road from his father’s Clockwise are Doc and Arthel Lane “Doc” Watson was born in Deep Gap in shoulders. Doc and Merle made about 20 Rosa Lee, Doc, Rich- Watauga County. His father, General Dixon Watson, together and won two Grammys. ard and Merle Watson. was a farmer and laborer who led singing at church. Merle was killed in a tractor accident in 1985. His mother, Annie, sang old while doing house- Although broken-hearted by the loss, Doc said Merle hold chores and at night sang the children to sleep. told him in a dream to with the music. He did Left blind by an eye infection as an infant, Doc this and helped start MerleFest in Merle’s memory. had a few years of formal schooling at the Raleigh Doc is revered for his and finger-picking School for the Blind. He was 5 or 6 when he received styles, as well as his voice. He received seven Gram- his first and 11 when his father made him mys, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, and a fretless banjo. After Doc taught himself the Carter was inducted into the International Family’s “When the Roses Bloom in ,” Doc’s Hall of Fame. father bought him a $12 Stella guitar, and soon he Rosa Lee Watson died six months after Doc died. was learning the rythym chords. He learned to flat She was 81. They performed together and co-wrote pick and then Jimmie Rodgers’ picking style. “Your Long Journey,” featured on the Grammy Award- After his marriage in 1947 to Rosa Lee Carlton, winning album “.” Their grandson and a neighbor and daughter of fiddler Gaither Carlton, Merle’s son, Richard Watson, performs at MerleFest.

Personalized Service Since 1985 Mike Martinez Janet Martinez Broker/Owner Marketing Specialist Licensed in Florida & Broker & North Carolina Licensed in Florida & North Carolina We Welcome You To The 28th Annual MerleFest Mountain Homes from the $200’s www.NCMIKE.com • 336-990-0999 6 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 Meet the artists who will perform at MerleFest 2015 Avett on banjo and Seth Avett on guitar, Baillie and The Boys show-casing their unbelievable body of along with upright bass player Bob Craw- Friday work and released a new Christmas CD ford, cellist Joe Kwon, Mike Marsh on Throughout 2015, Baillie and The Boys in 2014. Kathie’s breathtaking voice and drums, Paul Defiglia on keyboard and original members Kathie Baillie, Michael- live performance, backed by the pristine organ, and Tania Elizabeth on . Bonagura and Alan LeBoeuf, will be cel- harmonies and guitar virtuosity of Michael Described as a rootsy amalgam of folk, ebrating over 25 years with RCA Records, and Alan, fill venues and thrill audiences. country, bluegrass, rock and pop — with writing and recording a dozen of their own a jab of punk-style dynamics here and Billboard hit songs and numerous hits for Bandit’s Roost ALBERTI AVETT BROTHERS there — has released eight studio other artists. Since then they have con- Saturday Alberti Flea Circus albums and several EPs, earning critical tinued to write, record and perform their Bandit’s Roost is a new band from Friday, Saturday, Sunday acclaim including a Grammy nomination own critically acclaimed and Grammy- Elkin with a wide array of original and Part magician, storyteller, comedian and and ’s 2009 Artist to Watch. nominated acoustic roots music. They’re fresh sounding material that combines all entertainer, Jim Alberti is a third-gener- in the studio recording a retrospective Jim Avett ation flea circus impresario. After a career Continued on Page 7 Sunday in theater, Alberti began itching to revive In 2008, Jim Avett released his first the flea circus that was once performed by album on Ramseur Records, “Jim Avett his great uncle and later by his grandfather. and Family,” gospel songs recorded with He envisioned bringing it to a new genera- Welcome to Wilkesboro daughter Bonnie and sons Scott and Seth tion that had never had never experienced of The Avett Brothers. In 2010, he returned a flea circus. Alberti first took the revived with “Tribes,” seven original songs that flea circus on the road in the 1980s, and speak of love and loss, and in 2012, contin- MerleFest 2015 since then has captivated audiences at fairs, ued on those themes on “Second Chance,” festivals and theme parks across the United an album that reflects his influences of States and Canada. He’s been coming to and early rock ‘n’ roll. One Musicians and Fans MerleFest for over two decades. comes away from a Jim Avett performance Avett Brothers with the feeling that this is an honest man Saturday sharing his life and his love of music. He’s Th e Town of Wilkesboro Formed in 2001 in Charlotte, the Avett excited to return to MerleFest this year to www.WilkesboroNC.org Brothers are comprised of brothers Scott share his beloved gospel songs. Historic Downtown Wilkesboro Monday-Friday 8:30 to 5:30 ANNATIQUES OF WILKESBORO, LLC Saturday 8:30 to Noon Waggles Pet Supply Anna K. Holland, Owner 209A East Main Street & Dog Wash, LLC Wilkesboro, NC 28697 Phone: 828.773.8811 Specialty Pet Food, or fi nd us on at www.annatiques.com

Accessories and Fun Thursday & Friday 10 am-5 pm Do-It-Yourself Tubs to Saturday 9 Wash Your Dogs! Email: [email protected] 201 West Main Street • Wilkesboro, N.C. You Wash ... or We Can Wash For You! Russell F. Ferree Welcome MerleFest Fans! Welcome MerleFest Fans and Pets Real Estate Attorney Charles W. Johnson Broker/Owner 336-903-4906 New Location ALC • SFR www.wagglespetsupply.com 105 West Main Street 336.957.6385 Wilkesboro, NC 28697 [email protected] 103 E. Main Street russ@ferreelawfi rm.com w Downtown Wilkesboro 336.838.1350 View All Our Listings At (336) 838-0024 Fax (336) 838-7600 www.wilkesboro-nc-realestate.com MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 7

Bayou Diesel Artists Saturday continued from Page 6 Bayou Diesel has been travel- ing the obscure gig-highways of backgrounds of the band’s song- western North Carolina since 2005. writers and instrumentalists. It The band has always focused on includes David Blackmon (fid- BANNER- DEL performing the powerful Cajun, dle), R.G. Absher (banjo, guitar), MAN BARBER BAYOU DIESEL and Mardi Gras-style dance Caroline Noel Beverley (guitar, BANDIT’S ROOST Glenn Bannerman Del Barber music of Louisiana. Featuring the bass, vocals), Julian Charles , rubboard, rhythm sec- (guitar, bass, vocals) and Cory Saturday, Sunday Saturday Glenn Bannerman is known Del Barber grew up in the tion and occasional French lyr- Myers (cajón). Band members ics, Bayou Diesel has cooked up share their song and instrumen- nationwide as a dance caller, Canadian Prairies, and the land- teacher and leader. He was scape is as much a part of him some tasty jambalaya. In 2008, the tal writing prowess in a wide Asheville Zydeco Dance Krewe born in Hopewell, Va., and has a as the people he has met along variety of subjects including challenged the band to play some degree in municipal recreation the way. Barber’s fourth album, historical events, life changing authentic sounding Zydeco grooves and a master’s degree in Chris- “Prairieography,” is born out of experiences, relationships to var- for their monthly dances. Bayou tian education. For 20 years, a love for his home, its people ious cultures and humankind’s Diesel’s mission is to embody the stewardship of the Planet Earth. he was a professor of recre- and their stories. In an effort BANKNOTES to take his creative process to Zydeco “joi de vivre” of high-energy, ation and outdoor education community-friendly Banknotes All Banknotes’ members have at the Presbyterian School of new heights, Barber undertook a painstaking approach to achieve that all ages can enjoy anywhere. In Thursday been involved in MerleFest since Christian Education in Rich- the spirit of Mardi Gras, the purple, Banknotes was formed by a it began in 1988. Each personally mond, Va. He retired in 1989 an organic sound. The reverb was recorded inside a 150-foot grain gold and “green” powered Bayou group of Wilkes County musi- knew Young – a retired banker and formed the Bannerman Diesel easily navigates the good cians who were friends with Mer- and virtuoso in the Chet Atkins- Family Celebration Services, silo. Barber sings from the heart about his roots, telling tales from time mountain-bayou experience. leFest co-founder Bill Young, who style of guitar playing – and a recreation, folk dance and Let the Good Times Roll! passed away in 1992. It includes participated in various jam ses- worship resource. Glenn is on the road, and offering incredibly personal and sincere observa- R.G. Absher, Randy Gambill, Billy sions at his home in Wilkesboro. the Folk Heritage Committee tions of the world around him. BearWallow Gee, Tony Joines, Mike Palmer, Banknotes performs a mixture of in Asheville, which maintains Barber has emerged as one of the Saturday Jeff Pardue, Donnie Story and Americana music, which includes the Mountain Dance and Folk next wave in this country’s proud BearWallow hails from Mor- Wes Tuttle, representing some of bluegrass, Celtic, and thumb and Festival and Shindig on the tradition of songwriting talent. the best musical talent in Wilkes. finger-style guitar playing. Green performances. Continued on Page 8 Historic Downtown Wilkesboro Wilkes Heritage Museum BELLA ROSE Aunt B’s We rebuild We buy Presents OTTAGEE drill old C Attic 8th Annual 336-902-2276 336-928-0595 batteries! batteries! Blue Ridge Music Artisan Wares Vintage Furniture Accessories Hall of Fame Vintage & Collectibles Saturday, June 20, 2015 Custom Made Antiques Jewelry BECKY MULLINS Dinner and Induction Ceremony at TAMMY M. DESIDERIO THURS. 1-5 PM Stone Center for Performing Arts TUES. - SAT. 11-5 FRI. & SAT. 10-2 PM 127 West Main St. 106 EAST MAIN STREET 105 EAST MAIN STREET $35 613 Cherry Street • North Wilkesboro Wilkesboro, NC 28697 Shop: 336-667-7956 WILKESBORO, NC 28697 WILKESBORO, NC 28697 Doors Open 6 PM • Dinner 6:30 PM • Ceremony 7:15 PM Tickets 336-667-3171 or wilkesheritagemuseum.com 2015 Inductees: • •Terry Baucom 336.469.4387 •Lulu Belle and Scotty Wiseman •The Lewis Family 336.818.1413 Shop Wilkesboro •Si Kahn •Bobby Patterson 125 West Performances by: Main Street Virginialina • Terry Baucom and the Dukes of Drive Wilkesboro •Si Kahn • Bobby Patterson Downtown Merchants • Possum Hollar Old Time Sponsors: Knee Deep in Bluegrass, The Town of Wilkesboro, Clyde and Geri Cook, Isaac G. Forester, CPA, A-1 Self Storage, Johnson Oil, Timothy Welborn, Attorney, While Enjoying Wilkes Steel, Inc, Jacob Lira - Graphic Design, Holiday Inn Express, Mike’s Body Shop, Wilkes Wilkes Regional Medical Center, Cultural Arts Council of Wilkes, Kirk Gunton, Shoppes on Johnson-Hubbard House, Jim and Rose Andrews, Payne Power Equipment, Brame Huie Pharmacy This program received support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Main MerleFest 2015 Cultural Resources with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts through the Cultural Arts Antiques and Council of Wilkes, Inc. Collectibles 8 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015

Lee Bidgood performs and researches Artists in areas ranging from church worship continued from Page 7 and Czech tramp singing to bluegrass, old time, country and early music. He received ganton, bringing a unique blend of progres- his doctorate in critical and comparative sive bluegrass and a little bit of country. studies in music from the University of The band started nearly 30 years ago with . Since then his writing has been Todd Pons (guitar) and Gary McCurry published in “The International Country (banjo) playing coffeehouses and home- BEAR WALLOW BETHEL UNIVERSITY BLUEGRASS BAND Music Journal,” The New Encyclopedia of coming gigs. They added Malvin Philyaw ers, and their grandfather, Homer, played Southern Culture, and the New Grove Dic- plenty to offer fans of bluegrass music – (bass) six years ago and David Wiseman professionally at local dances, while his tionary of Music and Musicians. An early great picking, soulful vocals, high lone- (mandolin) and George Giddens (fiddle) father before him was a fiddler. Raised member of the and some harmonies and great song selection about five years ago. Wiseman is well by their grandparents while their parents Big Fat Gap, music has always played a – all melded together with drive, energy known in Eastern bluegrass circles, and toured, the duo was first influenced by their key role in his research and teaching. As and enthusiasm. The musicianship of these Giddens has played regularly in Branson, grandparents’ love of traditional country part of the faculty in East State young pickers is quite noticeable as the Mo., for many years. Lead vocalist Todd music and the popular music of the WWII University’s Department of Appalachian band shows imagination and taste in its Pons is a prolific songwriter, composing era. “When we started playing guitar,” said Studies, he teaches courses in ethnomu- selection and interpretation of bluegrass most of the songs on the group’s current Jesse, “we fell in love with blues, and sicology, bluegrass, old time and country music from old songs to new and songs of CD “Back to the Country.” A second CD ‘60s rock. Hanging out at dad’s recording music history and coaches the ETSU Man- faith, both traditional and contemporary. is in the making and should be available sessions led us to develop an appreciation dolin Orchestra. With filmmaker an ETSU In 2012 The Renaissance Bluegrass Band by early 2015. The group plays regularly of the recording process as an art form.” faculty colleague, Bidgood co-produced took the stage at the Big Lick Bluegrass throughout the Carolinas and has played in After years of writing and recording with “Banjo Romantika” (2013), a documentary Festival in Oakboro. They were invited , D.C., Virginia and Maryland. different record labels and becoming dis- film about the banjo and bluegrass music back to the festival in 2013 as one of the illusioned with Music Row of Nashville, in the Czech Republic. He will present the four premier acts. Also in 2013, the group Jesse and Noah Bellamy Jesse and Noah have thrown away the rule- film at MerleFest 2015. performed at the Dixie Carter Performing Friday book to forge their own sound. Their third Arts Center with bluegrass icon Rhonda Jesse and Noah Bellamy are brothers record, “Driven Back,” is self-produced and Vincent and released its first CD. Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys who have forged their own unique sound independently released. Friday and identities, pushing musical boundaries Big Sandy is back, having spent the Lee Bidgood to create their own path. They are fourth Bethel University Bluegrass Band last several months performing on fes- Friday generation musicians. Their father and Saturday, Sunday An ethnomusicologist and musician, uncle are the well-known Bellamy Broth- The Renaissance Bluegrass Band has Continued on Page 9 Perry Lowe Orchards,LLC ✪ ✪ 336-921-3123 www.perryloweorchards.com M & P DEPOT 828-632-7913 MILITARY SURPLUS •Personal Security Gear •Outdoor Gear Visit Us At MerleFest! •Tactical Gear and Accessories Enjoy Apple Cider Slushies • Dried Apples •Emergency Food and Supplies •Night Vision APPLES AVAILABLE NOW • Weapons Accessories At Our Apple House: •Ammunition Fuji • Cameo • Goldrush • Granny Smith •Red and Golden Delicious • Limbertwig • More •Apple Cider Sizes Ammo Specials •7 Varieties of Dried Apples ... Great Snack Infant to Adult Check With Us About Special Deals! •Local Honey • Jams and Jellies Our Store Is Located From MerleFest take Exit 286A on US Hwy. 421, NC Hwy. 16 South toward Taylorsville. ✪M & P DEPOT✪ Go 8 miles, Apple House on right. 336.546.9521 Monday-Saturday 8:00-5:00 308 10th Street • North Wilkesboro [email protected] MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 9

playing the part of a bluesman Artists in a Hollywood movie, dressed continued from Page 8 with theatrical retro-schtick, with a Derby hat and overalls. tival stages and in sold-out con- The tall, corpulent young man cert venues throughout Europe. markets himself directly to the The big man of American roots segment of the blues community music is elated to be back in the with a great nostalgic hunger for States, touring this fall from the authentic musicians that accu- coast of to the shores BLACK CADILLACS BLIND BOY PAXTON BLU-BOP rately portray the image of the of Delaware Bay. Over the last romanticized 1930s rural min- three decades, Big Sandy and blues-based indie rock band from life. The Black Cadillacs are hit- Street Journal, who praised their strel. Amazingly, he’s not just the His Fly-Rite Boys have kept up Knoxville, Tenn. With members ting their stride playing over 100 “rootsy flair … a winsome hybrid real deal; he may be the most sen- a constant cycle of traveling back from each of Tennessee’s major U.S. shows, a 25-date European traditional enough to appeal to an sational newcomer in the blues and forth across the Lower 48, cities, the state’s famous sounds tour and numerous major TV Opry crowd and expansive enough in many years. Meet “Blind Boy then hopping across the pond to are well represented. Nash- Network/Motion Picture/Video to ensnare a broader audience.” Jerron Paxton,” a songster, bus- Europe and beyond. They bring ville’s recent brand of rock ‘n’ Game music synchs this past year. They have enthralled audiences ker and itinerant bluesman, the with them a brand of American roll revival, Memphis’ soul and at festivals ranging from Bonna- living embodiment of the true music that has earned them an Knoxville’s roots music combine Black Lillies roo to Stagecoach, won two Inde- blues in the 21st Century. Blind induction into the Hall to form an authentic and original Sunday pendent Music Awards, and played since age 16, the charismatic of Fame, several national televi- sound. First cousins Will Hor- are a band for the more than any bluesman hails from a Creole sion appearances, guest spots on ton (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, the ages, not the slick, soulless other independent band. Their most family in Watts, South Central The Grand Ole Opry and a slew of harmonica) and Matthew Hyrka music that seems to get most of recent album, “Runaway Freeway , but his people came adoring fans. “I truly love being (lead guitar) founded the band the radio airplay, but rich, rootsy Blues,” conquered the Billboard Top from Louisiana. He is a capable out on the road, and I feel blessed with lifelong friend and neighbor tunes performed with as much 200 country charts and dominated multi-instrumentalist who picks to have the opportunity to sing Philip Anderson (bass guitar). In heart as technical virtuosity. This Americana radio. And in May 2015, banjo and guitar, plays harmon- my songs all over the world,” said 2009, the lineup was completed commitment to authenticity has their highly anticipated follow-up ica, and other instruments. Sandy. with the additions of John Phil- earned them accolades from outlets album will finally be released. lips (rhythm guitar) and Adam as diverse as Rolling Stone Maga- Blu-Bop Black Cadillacs Bonomo (drums). Their live set zine, which calls them one of “the Blind Boy Paxton Saturday and Sunday Friday is where this well-orchestrated most buzzworthy new acts in coun- Friday, Saturday, Sunday The music of and The Black Cadillacs are a yet explosive blend comes to try and Americana,” and the Wall At first glance he looks like he’s Continued on Page 10

SHE MADE THE DAY

MADE THE RINGS Next to Lowes Foods • Wilkesboro 336-667-2257 • www.brandjewelrync.com Going To MerleFest . . . FREE ESTIMATES Opening Early --- Closing Late Come by for a drink on the porch . . . Collision Repair . . . enjoy a nice relaxing dinner Call John Schuder after the festival! From steak and potatoes to fresh spins on Oakwoods Body Shop salad -- we have a variety of delicious 715 Walker Street • Wilkesboro menu options to satisfy every appetite! (Off Edgewood Road • Next to Behind Coffee House) 336-903-1166 336•984•8026 [email protected] 10 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015

represent the National Champi- with blues and , “Book” Artists onship Cloggers, All-American shifts from open tunings to slide continued from Page 9 Cloggers and Traditional Cloggers. arrangements to original com- The region’s traditional mountain positions with both traditional and the Flecktones inspired musi- culture holds true to the heritage self-styled licks. His cians for a generation and con- of the deep roots and families of emphasis is another characteristic tinues to lay the groundwork BLUE RIDGE HERITAGE this team. Each dancer interprets that makes his style unique. Binder for a new breed of musical tal- CLOGGERS the music with his or her feet upon was born in in 1941. ent as in Blu-Bop. Their particu- all these people into it, the band execution of figures After high school, he joined the lar brand of fusion brought the is local to the Triangle area of lin), Rob Ickes (), Shawn portraying the Southern Appala- Navy and did a tour of duty in banjo back into the jazz world N.C. and will attempt the very Lane (mandolin, fiddle, vocals), chian freestyle clogging. Always Europe. He bought his first guitar and transcended the boundar- difficult but amazingly fun task of Tim Stafford (guitar, vocals) and performing at Bascom Lamar at a military base in Italy. Upon ies of what type of music can be playing this music as accurately Wayne Taylor (bass, vocals) are Lunsford Festival, Shindig on discharge, he returned to New York played with jazz instrumentation. as possible. masters of their respective roles. the Green, Smoky Mountain Folk where he met one of his lifelong Béla Fleck, Victor Wooten, Roy Together, they are five gifted artists Festival, and Mountain Dance and friends, . Van Ronk, “Futureman” Wooten and others Blue Highway selflessly merging their talents into Folk Festival, this team constantly an incredible guitar player, was a created a new style of music that Saturday a seamlessly brilliant group sound. strives to demonstrate the unique- student of the famous blind blues- has been described as “bluegrass Blue Highway is indisputably Rob and Jason turn out the heart- ness of the popular dance style that man, Rev. Gary Davis. Impressed jazz fusion,” “funk grass” and a one of the most esteemed and pounding instrumentals, while began in the mountains of North with his friend’s playing, Binder is host of other attempts to classify influential groups in contem- Shawn, Tim and Wayne give Blue Carolina. Strong efforts to hold a veteran guitar instructor. porary bluegrass. The band’s 11 Highway a depth of songwriting authentic traditional heirlooms of the unclassifiable. The tongue in Laura Boosinger cheek reference of “Blu-Bop” best highly-acclaimed albums and talent unprecedented in 60 years the big and little circle figures in of bluegrass bands. Blue Highway group dancing is displayed with Saturday and Sunday describes the music. It’s light- compelling live shows give proof Laura, an award-winning per- has two Grammy nominations, authenticity and personal integrity hearted virtuosity with serious to the stellar reviews. With a deep former and recording artist, lives a Dove Award, topped the Blue- of each dancer of the Blue Ridge leanings toward technicality, bench of virtuosic songwriters, in Asheville, N.C., but has the good grass Unlimited radio charts and Heritage Cloggers. soul and brilliance. Comprised vocalists and instrumentalists, fortune to work in Madison County, won many International Bluegrass of E. Scott Warren (bass), Mike Blue Highway’s hallmark is an known for its traditions and Music Association awards. Rosado (drums), Justin Powell unwavering commitment to the home to a slew of traditional and Thursday, Saturday, Sunday (keys), Paul Messinger (harmon- ensemble, the “democracy of the bluegrass musicians.Boosinger Blue Ridge Heritage Cloggers Roy Book Binder has been ica), Myron Koch (saxophones) band” that makes Blue Highway a learned shaped-note singing from and long-obsessed Flecktone fan, powerhouse. Individually, Jason Friday and Saturday described as a guitar pickin’ hill- Hank Smith (), who roped Burleson (banjo, guitar, mando- Blue Ridge Heritage Cloggers billy bluesman. Equally at home Continued on Page 11 WILKES STEEL Welcome MerleFest Fans & RECYCLING For All Your 117 Maple Street • 667-4800 Real Estate Needs Contact Terrie! Call or Text 336•984•8873 River Road • 838-5117 Email: [email protected] To search any listing in Wilkes MLS North Wilkesboro Terrie Stackhouse 336-667-1966 Realtor • Broker www.stackhousehomes.com Ext. 608

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men have been equally influ- recently enlisted the tal- the North Carolina moun- Artists enced by the bluegrass and ents of Chad Lovette (Shay’s tains, he’s from a long line continued from Page 10 folk music that has echoed younger brother) on the up- of musicians and started over the hills for generations right bass, John Duncan singing in church at age North Carolina Heritage and by legendary songsters (Buncombe Turnpike) on four. He knew he wanted to Award winner and singing like Bob Dylan and Townes the fiddle and Zeb Gambill be a musician after seeing master Quay Smathers. Her Van Zandt. Soon after the on the mandolin. These new David Holt play with Josh primary focus is the inter- EPs release in 2013, Brushy additions to the band bring Goforth (Buckner’s cousin) pretation of traditional music Rides received radio airplay an exciting new dynamic to and became obsessed with from the Southern Appala- on regional radio stations a modern Americana sound. trying out every instrument ANDY chian region. Laura’s LOGAN BRILL BRUSHY RIDES WNCW and WDVX and was he could find. By the age offer a step back to a simpler BUCKNER invited to open up for Nora Andy Buckner of 16, the multi-instrumen- time, awakening memories for months since the release of Close Up Magazine have Jane Struthers and the Party Friday talist played bass, banjo, the old and gently instilling her debut album “Walking already shown their sup- Line on a string of North Andy Buckner plays guitar, mandolin, fiddle, important cultural lessons for Wires,” 23-year-old Knox- port for her refreshingly Carolina dates. Until early Southern music – Southern Dobro and more. During the young. Through an intro- ville native Logan Brill has authentic sound, imbued 2014, Lovette and Griffith rock, , rock this time he discovered duction to traditional instru- already proven herself to with a “bluesy American had played most of their ‘n’ roll, blues, bluegrass and ments and vocal styles found be one of the most impor- grit” (Southern Living) that shows as a duo but have more. Born and raised in Continued on Page 12 in the region, from ballads to tant new artists coming up sets her apart as “a far cry play-parties, old-time banjo to in Nashville today. With a from the slick pop country finger-style autoharp, Laura stunning voice that goes toe of many of her contempo- invites audiences to partici- to toe with Nashville’s finest, raries” (The Boot). pate in the richness of the the young singer-songwriter region’s musical heritage. Her opts for grit and authenticity Brushy Rides performances have included over pristine pop in her song Saturday the Tennessee Homecoming choices, drawing compari- On Brushy Rides’ debut at The Museum of , sons to , Brandi self-titled EP, Shay Lovette Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Carlile and Mary Chapin and Locke Griffith meld the Carpenter from national sounds of Appalachia with Logan Brill press. Outlets like Bill - their own blends of home- Thursday board, CMT Edge, Country spun Americana. Born and In just a few short Weekly, Pollstar and CMA raised in Wilkesboro, both

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100 9th Street, Suite B • North Wilkesboro, NC 28659 Call (336) 667-4700 12 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 Artists continued from Page 11 his calling as a songwriter. Andy gained widespread publicity when he and the band Cumberland River landed 13 songs on the hit FX series “Justified.” It was then that Andy’s career took a huge leap toward success. After graduating from high school he attended East Tennessee State University while establishing an SAM BUSH CHATHAM COUNTY LINE COLEMAN DONNA THE BUFFALO identity as a solo artist. dolin, fiddle), Chandler Holt (banjo) and Puryear (guitar, vocals), Tara Nevins Greg Readling (bass). This partnership (fiddle, guitar, accordion, scrubboard, Sam Bush Band enriches their latest album “Tightrope,” vocals), Dave McCracken (keyboard); Kyle Friday which was forged over a year’s worth of Spark (bass); and Mark Raudabaugh (per- Grammy Award-winning multi-instru- intensive rehearsals where they put every cussion). The band is touring heavily to mentalist Sam Bush doesn’t seem old element under the microscope. promote its latest album, “Tonight, Tomor- enough to be a musical legend. And he’s row and Yesterday,” released through not. But he is. He has been honored by T. Michael Coleman . Donna the Buffalo’s the Americana Music Association and the fervent fan base, self-named The Herd, Friday, Saturday and Sunday EARLS OF LEICESTER International Bluegrass Music Associa- T. Michael grew up playing baseball follows the band with zeal. When asked tion. “It’s overwhelming and humbling,” and singing in church. In college he devel- by the Weekender what new people should During these years, the band comprised Bush says of his lifetime achievement oped an appreciation of folk music since look forward to experiencing at a show, Lester, Earl, Dobro player , award from the AMA. “It goes along with he was in the vortex of American folk Nevins said, “A really friendly, comfortable fiddler Paul Warren, tenor singer and man- the title cut of my new album, ‘Circles music at Appalachian State University. T. crowd, and a real community-oriented, donlinist Curly Seckler, and bass player Around Me,’ which basically says, ‘How in Michael followed his music path a little positive experience.” Jake Tullock. The group won a Grammy in the hell did we get this far?’ In my brain ways down the road to Deep Gap when 2015 for Best Bluegrass Album. In a rela- I’m still 17, but I look in the mirror and I’m he began playing and touring with Doc Earls of Leicester tively short time as a performing group, 57.” But honors are not what drive him. “I and Merle Watson. The three toured the Friday “The Earls” shows have quickly become didn’t get into music to win awards,” he world and participated in many recordings The Earls of Leicester is a group of like- the stuff of legend in the roots/acoustic/ says. “I love to play and the older I get the that received Grammy nominations and minded musicians banding together to rec- bluegrass community. more I love it. And I love new things.” In the awards. After 15 years, T. Michael began reate the wonderful music of acoustic world, I’ve been pretty lucky to performing and recording with Seldom and and the Foggy Mountain Farmer Jason play with almost every one of my heroes. Scene in Washington, D.C., along with Boys. Led by 13-time Grammy-winner Friday and Saturday I’ve gotten to play with , Doc producing and recording various music , The Earls of Leicester fea- Farmer Jason is the brainchild of rock Watson and Earl Scruggs; I’ve been to the projects for Doc Watson and others. His tures the talents of some of Nashville’s music legend Jason Ringenberg of Jason mountain,” says Bush with a smile. “As interest in video production led him all most celebrated musicians, including hit and The Scorchers. An Americana Music long as I’m alive I hope I have the ability over the world to places like Rwanda, songwriter Shawn Camp (guitar, lead Association Lifetime Achievement Award to play,” says Bush, a two-time cancer Kosovo, Russia and South America. T. vocals), Tim O’Brien (mandolin), winner, Ringenberg is one of the pioneers treatment survivor. “When the ability to Michael also began music scoring for Barry Bales (Douglas’ cohort in Alison of the modern Americana and alt-country play is taken away, it’s humbling. It teaches documentaries and movies. Recently, T. Krauss & Union Station), fiddler Johnny genres. In 2002 he created Farmer Jason you a lesson: don’t take it for granted.” Michael joined with David Holt and Brian Warren (son of Paul Warren, legendary to educate and entertain children about Sutton in Deep River Rising (now called fiddle player in Flatt & Scruggs’ Foggy farm life and the wonders of nature. The Chatham County Line Sutton, Holt and Coleman), traveling the Mountain Boys band) and acclaimed banjo character is based on his own farming Friday road Doc Watson paved and paying hom- player Charlie Cushman. The band plays background and love of the great out- Entering its second decade as an ensem- age to Doc Watson’s musical journey. selections from the era of 1954 to 1965. ble, Chatham County Line brings a deep Continued on Page 13 reverence for traditional American roots Donna the Buffalo music and timeless bluegrass instrumen- Thursday, Friday and Saturday tation to insightful, poetic original songs Donna the Buffalo’s feel-good, groove- that are powerfully contemporary yet oriented, danceable and often socially- Brame Huie rich with the complex resonance of their conscious music has held steadfast since 1920 West Park Drive • NW Southern heritage. Over the course of six 1989. It has roots in old-time fiddle music ~ Committed To Personal Service! ~ studio albums and performances around that evolved into a soulful electric Ameri- the world, they have pursued a singular cana- mix infused with elements of Cajun/  Professsional. Friendly Staff  Free Local Delivery style that is entirely their own, yet connect zydeco, rock, folk, reggae and country.  Drive-Thru Available with audiences from all walks. Dynamic Donna the Buffalo is known for touring the  After Hours Service and captivating, Chatham County Line is country, remaining fiercely independent as  Complimentary Soft Drink While You Wait equally capable of classically hard-driving one of the industry’s most diverse roots- bluegrass and sparse, haunting ballads. music bands and has “earned a reputation Monday-Friday 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM - Saturday 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM The key to their sound lays in the close as one of the most respected, eclectic collaboration of the band’s four members: and hardest-working acts today,” praises 336-838-8988 Dave Wilson (guitar), John Teer (man- Encore. Donna the Buffalo includes Jeb www.bramehuiepharmacy.com MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 13

cover brings a fresh, new writer, guitarist and vocal- Jim & Jesse. Musician Bob Artists perspective. ist Leigh Gibson. The father- Fuller made sure the young continued from Page 12 and-son team is Junior brothers were exposed to Gibson Brothers Barber (Resophonic guitar) the music of bluegrass greats doors. Farmer Jason has Saturday and son Mike Barber (acous- like Red Allen, Bill Monroe released four records and a The upstate New York tic bass). Brothers Leigh and Jimmy Martin. In 1994, DVD. He has starred in the bluegrass group known as and Eric began performing as a group of four, The “It’s a Farmer Jason” video The Gibson Brothers is really before their teens, playing Gibson Brothers recorded program that airs on sev- FLECK AND WASHBURN FRONT COUNTRY two talented brothers and gospel instrumentals in the their debut album, “Under- father-and-son team that can local church. They added eral PBS stations around neath a Harvest Moon.” The Fleck’s riveting and virtu- fornia Bay Area’s red-hot deliver a close-knit harmony singing harmonies to their the country, earning four group’s music moves from Emmy nominations and osic musicianship to cre- roots music scene, Front without a hitch. The broth- act when they were around fun and energetic to serious one Emmy win. Farmer ate music both unique yet Country first made waves ers are writer, banjoist and 16. They did numbers by art- Jason has performed sev- familiar in texture. Fleck, with a rare double band vocalist Eric Gibson and ists such as and Continued on Page 14 eral thousand concerts in a 15-time Grammy win- competition at both the venues ranging from rural ner, has collaborated with Telluride and Rockygrass fairs on the Alaskan tundra Chick Corea, Oumou San- music festivals. Following to posh European perfor- gare, Zakir Hussain, Edgar national tours and invites to Thursday, April 23 ------mance halls. The highly Meyer, Dave Matthews, prestigious events like Win- 1. 2. 9:45 p.m.-10:15 p.m. acclaimed live show in- Earl Scruggs and the entire tergrass and IBMA, antici- Watson Cabin Logan Brill volves sing-alongs, danc- Orchestra for his pation has been mounting 3:00 p.m.-3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m.-4:15 p.m. ing and discussions about banjo “The Impos- for their debut full-length Underhill Rose Roy Book Binder ------7. nature appreciation, ecol- tor.” Washburn’s banjo has album. Wanting to create Pickin’ Place ogy and farm animals. taken her far beyond the something that pushed 4:15 p.m.-5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-5:05 p.m. Scythian Raffle Drawing 2:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. usual old-timey comfort their sound even further, ------Jammin’ at Béla Fleck and zone, musically and geo- Front Country recruited 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. 5:05 p.m.-5:30 p.m. The ’Pickin’ Place Abigail Washburn graphically. An alumnus renowned instrumentalist, Lee Ann Womack MerleFest Bluegrass The Pickin’ Place is more than a Thursday of Uncle Earl, the power- composer and songwriter ------Jam Camp with stage, it’s an entire venue devoted Banjoists Béla Fleck house all-female string- Kai Welch to produce “Sake 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Pete & Joan Wernick to pickin’ & grinnin’! Included in and Abigail Washburn band, Abby’s adopted of the Sound.” With Welch Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn ------The Pickin’ Place are the have mastered the decep- second homeland is China. at the helm, Front Country ------6:30 p.m.-6:55 p.m. Traditional Jammin’ Tent, 8:30 p.m.-9:45 p.m. The Bill Young Tribute with the Bluegrass Jammin’ Tent, and tively intricate art of the Her music resounds with was able to unite its many Banknotes duet. Their performances echoes of Appalachia and far-reaching musical influ- Hot Rize with Red Knuckles and Anything Goes Jammin’ Tent. The Trailblazers ------Bring your acoustic instruments embrace a diversity almost the tidal wave of emerging ences and inspirations and ------6:55 p.m.-7:00 p.m. to this area and jam! unthinkable - coming from Chinese cultural influence. do credit to its electrifying 10:15 p.m.-11:15 p.m. Raffle Drawing Hosted by the just two banjos and one live show. The songs on the Trampled By Turtles ------Wilkes Acoustic Folk Society. voice. Washburn’s beguil- Front Country new album are sourced 8:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. ing composing, playing Saturday from all across the Ameri- The Larry Stephenson Band and singing blend with Coming out of the Cali- cana spectrum, but each Sunday, April 26 1. 1:50 p.m.-1:55 p.m. Sunday Morning The InterACTive performances by ------more than a stage, instructor Laurie Blu-Bop Silent Auction Devotions with Theater of Jef special guests 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. it’s an entire venue Brintle-Jarvis for a ------Watson Winners Announced Rev. Roy Dobyns of ------Joe West Unplugged devoted to pickin’ and one hour yoga 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. ------First Baptist Church Noon-12:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. - Traditions from the grinnin’! session. The David Mayfield The Kruger Brothers 1:55 p.m.-2:30 p.m. of Boone. Piano Bethel University Brandon Whyde & Southwest with Included in The ------Parade Kontras Quartet Joe West & The Shannon Whitworth music provided by Bluegrass Bands the Devil’s Keep Pickin’ Place are the Noon-1:00 p.m. ------Santa Fe Revue Learn to Clog - A ------Jeff Little ------Traditional Jammin’ 12:15 p.m.-1:30 p.m. 12:45 p.m.-1:45 p.m. ------Willard Watson 3:30 p.m.-3:35 p.m. ------1:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. 12:45 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Tent, Bluegrass The Black Lillies Paul Thorn 12:45 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Tribute with Raffle Grand Prize 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Bethel University The David Mayfield Jammin’ Tent and the ------Locust Honey Carol Rifkin, Jeanette ------Parade Winners Announced Nashville Bluegrass Bluegrass Bands String Band Anything Goes Queen, John Fowler 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. ------Band ------Jammin’ Tent. Bring and Blind Boy Paxton Steep Canyon Robert Earl Keen 2:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m. 3:35 p.m.-4:15 p.m. ------2:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m.-2:30 p.m. your acoustic instru------Rangers ------The Black Lillies Brandon Whyde & 11:00 a.m.-Noon The InterACTive African American ment to this area and 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m.-5:30 p.m. The Devil’s Keep Gospel Hour with Theater of Jef Traditions with jam! Hosted by the Traditional Mountain Dwight Yoakam 6. ------Jim Avett and Family ------Blind Boy Paxton Wilkes Acoustic Big Circle and 5:30 p.m.-5:35 p.m. 3:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Traditional Folk Society Square Dance with 2. Alex & Dan Fedoryka 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. “Southbound” played 4. 7. The Sheets Family Shape Note Singing Cabin by Bill Mathis, Jack Little Pickin’ Band and caller 5. with Laura Boosinger 8. 12:15 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Lawrence, T. Michael Pickers Place Dance Glenn Bannerman Jeff Little Trio Coleman Americana ------10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ------10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. 12. Alberti Flea Circus Jammin’ at Sunday Morning 1:45 p.m.-1:50 p.m. 3. Sunday Morning Women Who Sing ------The Pickin’ Place Yoga - Bring your Hillside Raffle Drawing Creekside Blues hosted by Roy Traditional with host 10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The Pickin’ Place is own mat and join ------9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Book Binder with Carol Rifkin 14 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 12. 13. Mipso Bellamy Brothers Scythian Kelly Willis Kelly ------Center ------Walker Walker Peter Rowan Peter Hillside Jesse & Noah The Waybacks The The Jason Lee McKinney McKinney Band with The with Kruger Noon-12:45 p.m. Bruce Robison and hosted by Tut Taylor Tut hosted by The Black Cadillacs Hillside Sunset Jam 2:15 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-1:45 p.m. and The and Local Boys 3:45 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-5:45 p.m. 1:15 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-5:45 p.m. 6:15 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Baillie The and Boys The Spinney Brothers 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The Earls of Leicester 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

GRASSIFIEDS 11. Rowan Andy May Andy May ------Registration Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Songwriter’s Coffeehouse judges Bruce chairman Jim Acoustic Kids Joe Smothers Andy Buckner with Andy May Robison, Jesse Lauderdale and The Chris Austin Coffeehouse with Coffeehouse with Coffeehouse Coffeehouse with Coffeehouse with Coffeehouse Coffeehouse with Coffeehouse The Honeycutters The Plaza Bellamy Bellamy and Peter Finals with contest 1:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. 2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. 7:15 p.m.-8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.-8:15 p.m. 8:45 p.m.-9:00 p.m. 9:15 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Songwriting Contest MerleFest MerleFest Open Mic Jason Jason Lee McKinney 9:45 p.m.-10:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Showcases Showcases hosted by 10:15 p.m.-10:30 p.m. 10. Tradition Coleman ------Showcases Screening & Change with with Bill Mize with Bob Hill Hosted by Joe THE GRAVY BOYS with Unspoken Discussion with Performing ArtsPerforming Dr. Lee Bidgood Dr. Austin in Austin Banjo Romantika Noon-12:15 p.m. Kiran Kiran Singh Sirah with Emory Lester and MerleWatson Hill of MornFrosty with Joe Smothers and Mark Johnson with Andy Buckner Smothers and Bob with Jack with Lawrence Jack 9:25 a.m.-9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m.-9:45 a.m. Mandolin Workshop Workshop Mandolin with The with Local Boys 5:15 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 6:15 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Welcome to Welcome the Doc 1:00 p.m.-1:15 p.m. with Sutton, Holt and 11:30 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Alumni Hall 10:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. 10:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Artists 12:30 p.m.-12:45 p.m. continued from Page 13

and deliberate, stirring in classic 9. Tut Taylor Tut Henderson “B” Townes “B” ------with Wayne Wayne with bluegrass and roots country in a ------MerleFest MerleFest by with Bill Mize with Scythian Finger, Flat Finger, & The History of Welcome to Welcome the Storytelling as a with Carol Rifkin, Uncle Ted White Uncle Ted Guitar Workshop Guitar Mayes Pit Mayes 11:00 a.m.-Noon Source for Source Social for Paxton with Paxton caller The Anatomy of a with Happy Traum with Happy Traum with Happy Learn to Jam with Remembered with

way that makes each song origi- Night Dance Friday Pete Wernick. Bring Wernick. Pete Traditional Mountain Traditional 1:15 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 3:15 p.m.-4:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Otherwise Workshop Workshop Otherwise Fowler and Fowler Blind Boy Dance and Big Circle your your own instrument! 12:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Homespun Workshop Homespun MerleFest Workshops MerleFest Jeanette Queen, John 10:00 a.m.-10:05 a.m. 10:05 a.m.-10:45 a.m. 10:30 p.m.-12:00 a.m. nal. The band has now released Dance Demonstrations seven albums. They debuted on the Grand Ole Opry in 2003. The Gibson Brothers earned the 1998

IBMA Emerging Artist of the Year 8. Revue Friends BREAK Society. and the 2012 and 2013 IBMA Enter- and more ------Dance ------Dancin’ with Dancin’ Fly-Rite Boys Anything Anything Goes the Blue Ridge Ridge Heritage Western led by Jeff Little, Uncle Ted White Ted Uncle tainer of the Year awards. 11:15 a.m.-Noon Wayne Henderson Wayne Heritage Cloggers and More with Joe Band and the Blue Big Sandy and His The Sheets Family Learn to Clog from jam! Hosted by the Tent, the Bluegrass Tent, Jammin’ Tent. Bring Tent. Jammin’ Danceable Western Western Danceable Cloggers with caller Traditional Mountain Traditional your your acoustic instru- 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Demonstrations Demonstrations with and Carol Rifkin and Wilkes Wilkes Acoustic Folk and Big Circle Dance ment to this area and Originals, Traditionals Traditionals Originals, West The & West Santa Fe 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Jammin’ Tent, and the Tent, Jammin’ Doc’s Rockabilly Show Doc’s Grassifieds Appearing in Outreach Since emerging on the North Carolina bluegrass scene in 2006, 6. 7.

The Grassifieds have built a repu- Ogletree Place Traditional Jammin’ at Jammin’ Helen White Helen ------Pickin’ Pickin’ Broadcasters Wernick Play Wernick Play Pete and Pete Joan Music The with Henderson and The Stray The Birds Stray

tation for delivering genuinely Ritter and Sarah The Pickin’ Place The Pickin’ Tunes with Wayne Wayne with Tunes and special guests The South Carolina Peter Rowan Plays Rowan Peter Traditional Jammin’ Jammin’ Traditional ed to pickin’ & ed grin- to pickin’ Traditional The Pickin’ Place is The Pickin’ Tunes from Mitchell Tunes Traditional with Eric Traditional County William with Traditional Time Old Traditional Ellis, Ellis, Scott Freeman Sheets Family Sheets Band Family Old Time Old Songs and nin’! Included The in 4:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m. 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Pickin’ Place are the Pickin’ Old Time Old Songs and 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. more than a stage, it’s entertaining performances from an entire devot- venue the heart. This Walkertown, band combines locked-in harmonies and high lonesome lead vocals with skillful instrumental performances 4. 5.

and talented songwriting. Even Bellamy Little ------Fly-Rite Boys Pickers Farmer Farmer Jason Farmer Farmer Jason Theater of Jef Theater of Jef Jesse & Noah

their most recent original songs The Jason Lee McKinney McKinney Band The InterACTive The InterACTive The Honeycutters Donna the Buffalo Alberti Flea Circus Alberti Flea Circus Big Sandy and His Americana 2:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. 5:15 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m.-2:15 p.m. 3:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. 4:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 9:45 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 12:15 p.m.-1:00 p.m. The Spinney Brothers The Sigmon Stringers 11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m. retain the authenticity and drive of 10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. ; they’ve writ- ten about broken hearts (“What I Am”), Alabama coal mines (“My Dad and Shrev Malone”) and faith 3.

(“We Are on Our Way” and “Do You Mipso guests Coleman Andy May Kelly Willis Kelly ------Chris Austin ToneBlazers

Love Enough”). You won’t find a The Ragbirds Pete Wernick’s Wernick’s Pete Raffle Drawing Raffle Drawing The Stray The Birds Stray Sutton, Holt and Noon-12:45 p.m. The Honeycutters Lester and special Creekside Bruce Robison and Flexigrass Jam with Flexigrass Songwriting Contest 4:50 p.m.-5:15 p.m. 4:00 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Winners Announced 4:45 p.m.-4:50 p.m. 6:15 p.m.-6:20 p.m. 6:20 p.m.-6:45 p.m. 8:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. 5:15 p.m.-6:00 p.m. more authentic bluegrass sound! The Kruger Brothers 9:30 a.m.-10:15 a.m. 9:45 p.m.-10:15 p.m. Chatham County Line 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Mark Johnson, Emory Gravy Boys Saturday They take a cup of country, a pinch of , a handful of 1. 2. Band Allstars BREAK Bob Hill Bill Mize Cabin ------honky-tonk, a splash of bluegrass, ------Watson Guthrie by the Raffle Drawing Raffle Drawing Sam Bush Band Songs of Woody Songs Woody of North Mississippi Donna the Buffalo Del McCoury Band Unspoken Tradition Unspoken The Black Cadillacs Jim Lauderdale with The Marshall Tucker The Tucker Marshall 8:30 p.m.-9:45 p.m. 1:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-2:50 p.m. 2:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m. 3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. 2:50 p.m.-3:15 p.m. 6:45 p.m.-8:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 5:15 p.m.-6:15 p.m. Baillie The and Boys Chatham County Line 12:45 p.m.-1:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. 10:15 p.m.-11:15 p.m. 10:15 a.m.-11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-11:05 a.m. 12:15 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Continued on Page 15 April 24 Friday, MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 15 Artists continued from Page 14 p.m. Only 13. 12. Band

a dash of folk; stir vigorously; Waybacks ------Center Walker Walker Blue Highway Hillside Front CountryFront JOHNNYSWIM 11:45 a.m.-12:30 Veronika Jackson Veronika The Wheels Steel The Midnight Jam

and let it simmer ‘til the pot bubbles Donna the Buffalo The Hillside Album Situation. By Ticket Ticket By Situation. Wheels. Brought to Wheels. 1:30 p.m.-2:15 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Nashville Bluegrass Hour The hosted by Midnight-2:30 p.m. hosted by The hosted Steel by Opening The Act for 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. 3:45 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m.-5:45 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m. 2:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m. New New Country Rehab 12:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Midnight Jam featur- Jim Lauderdale Band 11:30 p.m.-Midnight ing The Wheels ing Steel 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m. over. Based in Raleigh/Durham, The Bluegrass you by their music draws deep from the well of America’s diverse musical heritage. Their high energy shows feature vocal harmonies, boot- good 11. Band Devils stomping rhythms, lively stage Ramble ------Strings Band Old Time Old Band with The with Loose with Whitewater Whitewater with Bluegrass Bluegrass Band Hill, Tut Taylor, Si Taylor, Tut Hill, banter and honest musicianship. with Sons of the South Bluegrass with BearWallow with BearWallow 11:45 a.m.-Noon The Plaza The Virginia The Dare with Time with Sawyer Kahn and Lee Bid- with Brushy Rides with Bandit's Roost with Mountain Park tion with judges Bob 2:00 p.m.-2:15 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-1:15 p.m. 1:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. 2:30 p.m.-2:45 p.m. 3:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Welcome to Welcome the Mer- 3:40 p.m.-4:15 p.m. 11:15 a.m.-11:30 a.m. with The Gravy The with Boys Gravy leFest Band leFest Competi- with Bobby with Miller Bobby and 10:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. with Roy with Book Roy Binder The band, formed in 2005, includes 10:15 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m.-11:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Steve Celestini (vocals, harmon- ica), Steve Storms (guitar, Dobro, vocals), Bill Spag-nardi (vocals, mandolin, percussion), Tom Spag- 10. Smith

nardi (doghouse bass, vocals) and Paxton Brothers ------with Blind Boy with Reverend with Reverend Joe Spagnardi (guitar, vocals). Williams Blake with the Kruger Robert B. RobertJones B. Austin in Austin est Acoustic Blues with Happy Traum with Happy a Small Ensemble roe and the Grand by by Book Roy Binder with CharlesWelch Dulcimer Workshop Workshop Dulcimer Ole Opry hosted by with Doug MacLeod with Steve with and Steve Ruth 5:45 p.m.-6:30 p.m. 2:55 p.m.-3:35 p.m. 3:45 p.m.-5:15 p.m. 1:45 p.m.-2:30 p.m. 1:25 p.m.-2:05 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m. 2:10 p.m.-2:50 p.m. 12:40 a.m.-1:20 p.m. Life on Life the road with Acoustic Kids Show- Show Show on Earth hosted Arranging Arranging a Song for Welcome to Welcome the Great - cases with Andy May Alumni Hall 11:55 a.m.-12:35 a.m. Lester Flatt, Bill Mon- with Veronika Jackson Veronika with 11:00 a.m.-11:05 a.m.

They have three CDs: “Crackerjack 11:15 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Whistle” (2013), “ Lover” (2009) and “Workin’ the Angels for Handouts” (2007).

Mitch Greenhill 9. Fowler MacLeod MerleFest Clawgrass ------

Friday, Saturday and Sunday Traum Happy Emory Lester Workshop Workshop with Saturday Night Saturday shop with Doug Welcome to Welcome the Workshops Workshops with Mark Johnson & Queen and John shop with Wayne shop Wayne with Honey Honey Dewdrops Henderson, Larry the Locust Honey and Happy Traum and Happy Mayes Pit Mayes Donna the Buffalo and Big Circle and tage Cloggers with Learn to Clog from Blues Work- Guitar Workshop The Workshop with Thumb Picking and Nixon, Mike Farmer 9:30 a.m.-9:40 a.m.

A product of the 1960s Cam- Mountain Traditional Square Dances with 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Dance Bayou Dance Diesel Bayou the Blue Ridge Heri- Harmony & Highway er Glenn Bannerman String Band and call- 9:45 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Finger Work- Picking 12:45 p.m.-1:30 p.m. 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Carol Rifkin, Jeanette 10:30 p.m.-12:00 a.m bridge folk music scene, Mitch 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. recorded two albums for Pres- tige, now reissued as “Shepherd of the

City Blues” (2000). 7. 8. grinnin'! Tent and Tent Fe Revue Fe Andy May Place Included in Dance ------

He performed along Pickin’ Folk Society Folk Pickin' Pickin' Place Acoustic Kids Emory Lester Jammin' Tent. Jammin' area and jam! the Traditional the Hosted by the Anything Anything Goes Jammin’ The at Jammin’ Showcases Showcases with Band and caller Wilkes Wilkes Acoustic Uncle Ted White Ted Uncle style Dance with Noon - 1:00 p.m. Jammin' Tent, the Tent, Jammin' the Southwest with instruments to this Bluegrass Bluegrass Jammin' more than a stage, it's an entire venue Old Time Traditions Traditions Time Old the East Coast Bring your acoustic devoted to devoted pickin' & The Pickin' Place is Big Circle and Free- Locust Honey String 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. with Mark Johnson & The Pickin' Place are Danceable Danceable Music from Joe West The & West Santa Joe 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and accompanied 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Rosalie Sorrels on her seminal album “If I Could Be the MITCH GREENHILL Rain.” In California 5. 6. Friends Eli West Eli Scythian Dewdrops

he per-formed in the Del Barber The Honey many many more ------The Two Man Two The The Ragbirds Front CountryFront Carol Rifkin and Carol Rifkin and Laura Laura Boosinger Gentleman Band David Holt and T. David Holt T. and Michael Coleman country-rock band Frontier and and by by David Holt with Alberti Flea Circus Doc's Show hosted Traditional Americana Cahalen Morrison & 4:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m. 4:00 p.m.-4:45 p.m. 5:15 p.m.-6:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-3:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m. 1:30 p.m.-2:15 p.m. 5:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. New New Country Rehab 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. 9:45 a.m.-10:30 a.m. 12:15 p.m.-1:00 p.m. in California honky-tonks while 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m. 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. working as a studio guitarist and producer. After joining his father, Manny Greenhill, at Folk- lore Productions, he worked as 4. agent/manager and producer for Goforth ------Emory Lester Farmer Farmer Jason The Two Man Two The Farmer Farmer Jason Theater of Jef Colman, Holt & Bluegrass Bluegrass Band

Doc and Merle Watson, The InterACTive Sam Bush, Mike 11:30 a.m.-Noon Bethel University Bethel University Gentlemen Band Compton, James Bluegrass Bluegrass Bands Blind Boy Blind Paxton Boy Michael Coleman and Emory Lester Mark Johnson and Merle hosted by T. Merle T. hosted by Alberti Flea Circus with special guests 6:00 p.m.-6:45 p.m. 12:30 p.m.-1:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. 2:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m. 4:45 p.m.-5:30 p.m. 2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. ing Tony Williamson, Tony ing Mando Mania featur- Nash, Andrew Marlin 9:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Moore Brothers Band Little Pickers and others. He and Mayne Smith 10:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. released “Storm Coming” (1979) and “Back Where We’ve Never Been” (1985). On Broadway, he composed original music for “An 3. Band Video Almost Holy Picture,” a dramatic Video Andy May Dewdrops Dewdrops & West Eli The Honey The Honey Lopez Band ------Belk Southern play starring Kevin Bacon. Mitch’s Belk Southern Raffle Drawing Raffle Drawing Raffle Drawing Mitch Greenhill Noon-1:30 p.m. Cahalen Morrison Winner - Christian Acoustic Kids with Creekside 5:00 p.m.-5:05 p.m. 5:05 p.m.-5:30 p.m. 6:15 p.m.-6:20 p.m. 6:20 p.m.-6:45 p.m. 7:30 p.m.-7:31 p.m. 7:31 p.m.-8:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Musician Showcase Musician Showcase 4:30 p.m.-4:31 p.m. 2:50 p.m.-3:15 p.m. 2:45 p.m.-2:50 p.m. 1:16 p.m.-1:45 p.m. String Madness with Rev. RobertJones B. Rev. 9:30 a.m.-10:15 a.m. Memories of Doc and Winner - Down Home latest project is the all-acoustic, 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. all-instrumental trio, String Madness.

Wayne Henderson 1. 2. Smith Thursday, Friday and Saturday Video Winner Brothers Cabin Del Barber David David Holt, Tribute with Tribute ------The Spinney Peter Rowan Peter

Wayne Henderson’s top-notch Emory Lester Willie Blue Highway Watson Steve and Steve Ruth Jack Lawrence, Lawrence, Jack and many more Mark Johnson & 11:15 a.m.-Noon Noon-12:30 p.m. Band Competition Lorraine Lorraine Jordan & The Avett Brothers The Avett Doc Watson Guitar Watson Doc 5:30 p.m.-6:15 p.m. 6:45 p.m.-7:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. T. Michael Coleman T. 4:31 p.m.-5:00 p.m. 3:15 p.m.-4:00 p.m. 1:15 p.m.-1:16 p.m. 1:45 p.m.-2:45 p.m. Carolina Road Band 9:30 p.m.-11:15 p.m. The Gibson Brothers 12:30 p.m.-1:15 p.m. 10:00 a.m.-10:45 a.m. 10:45 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Continued on Page 18 April 25 Saturday, 16 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 17

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can be heard each week on public radio’s Artists “Riverwalk Jazz” and seen in the movie continued from Page 15 “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” finger-picking has delighted , Honey Dewdrops three national tours of Masters of the Steel- Saturday String Guitar and seven nations in Asia. Hen- Laura Wortman and Kagey Parrish derson is a luthier of great renown. He is a share more than most couples. As the recipient of a 1995 National Heritage Award, Honey Dewdrops, they share stages from presented by the National Endowment for venues to festivals across North America, the Arts. He produces about 20 instruments WAYNE HENDERSON BOB HILL DAVID HOLT HONEY DEWDROPS stretches of rolling, infinite roadway, and a year, mostly . Doc Watson, who was a lot of songs; they share one mic and a a good friend, used to stop at Wayne’s shop England, signed Bob as a solo artist. NEMS years, which he says was the highlight of hunger to pay attention to what endures. in Rugby, Va., to pick a few tunes. Doc said renamed him “Fred Hill.” Bob has written his long career. Holt found hundreds of This hunger to explore and document of his Henderson mandolin, “That Hender- songs with and for the following artists and old-time mountaineers with a wealth of is evident in their 2012 release “Silver son mandolin is as good as any I’ve had my has recorded and performed with them as folk music and stories. There was 100-year- Lining,” a Top Ten record on national hands on. And that’s saying a lot, because well: , JJ Cale, Jack “Cowboy” old banjoist , fiddler Tommy folk and Americana stations. With tight I’ve picked up some good ones.” Some of Clement, Don Everly, Ray Stevens, Lacy J. Jarrell and 122-year-old washboard player harmonies and a musical ensemble that Henderson’s instruments are intricately Dalton and Rufus & Carla Thomas, just to Susie Brunson as well as Doc Watson, Roy includes clawhammer banjo, mandolin decorated but are most respected for their drop a few names. Fast forward to the pres- Acuff and . In 2002 Doc and and guitars, the effect is to leave listen- volume, tone and resonance. Blues guitarist ent, Bob has released a CD entitled “Keepin’ David won two Grammys for their classic ers with only what matters: the heart of John Cephas said that Wayne Henderson “is the Wolves Away” on Love Breeze Records. “Legacy,” a three-CD set with interviews, the song and clarity over ornamentation. probably the most masterful guitar maker Bob still sleeps in the back of the jukebox. music and a live concert about the inspir- Laura and Kagey make their home in Balti- in this whole .” ing life and music of Doc Watson. Dur- more, Md., where they wrote and recorded David Holt ing his 30-year career, David has hosted their fourth full-length album, expected Bob Hill Friday and Saturday numerous television shows including “Fire for release spring 2015. The set of songs Thursday, Friday and Saturday Four-time Grammy Award winner David On The Mountain,” the PBS “Folkways” is raw and engaging, with characters and Born in the back of a jukebox, Bob Hill Holt is a musician, storyteller, historian, series, “Great Scenic Railway Journeys” images from kindred people and places. sold his first published song to in television host and entertainer who is and “David Holt’s State of Music.” He has And like their stage performance, these new 1972. Shortly after, Bob joined Doc and Merle dedicated to performing and preserving performed and recorded with many of songs rock and reel, and then they console Watson as an original member of Frosty traditional American music and stories. his mentors including Doc Watson, Chet Morn. In 1980, NEMS Records of London, Holt performed with Doc Watson for 14 Atkins, Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs. He Continued on Page 19 USED CARS-TRUCKS-PARTS Mark’s Guns If You’re Looking For A Particular Make or Model, Give Us A Call - Most Times We Can Find Exactly What & Ammo You Are Looking For -- On the Lot Financing • Acres of Used Parts 24 Hour Wrecker Service Call 835-4442 or 835-7837 Nights •Large Selection of Firearms SOUTHEASTERN CARS & PARTS •Specializing in Conceal Carry Hwy. 268, Ronda, N.C. Handguns & Holsters •Large Selection of Ammunition New-Used Collector Items Gun Repair Concealed Carry Classes Available • Call For Details! PEACEPEAC LOVELOVE JOY 177 Reece Road, Dobson, NC 27017 336-386-8707 336-667-2257 10 am-6 pm Mon.-Fri; 10 am-2 pm Sat. www.brandjewelrync.com Next to Lowes Foods • Wilkesboro, N.C. 30 Years Experience! MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 19

Unger while living in New York. Mark didn’t Artists know that Jay was a highly accomplished fid- continued from Page 18 dler who also tinkered with the clawhammer style of banjo. It was in the early 1970s that you . Mark learned from this consummate fiddler the basic technique of clawhammer banjo. Honeycutters He also learned the three-finger style of Friday bluegrass picking as his familiarity with the The Honeycutters are an original country instrument unfolded. Mark moved to Crystal roots band from Asheville. Since forming River, Fla., in 1981, where, by chance, he met HONEYCUTTERS HOT RIZE WITH RED KNUCKLES JEF JACKSON in 2007, the group has been playing music the Rice brothers: Larry, Tony, Ronnie and that is consistently as catchy as it is heart- Hot Rize retired, its members went on to for acoustic folk and R&B music grew as Wyatt. His manner for style and creativity in felt. Organically grown around the songs of distinguished careers of their own. Even she followed such artists as , Dolly composition and performance was forever lead singer Amanda Anne Platt, the band so, Hot Rize turned out to be the band that Parton, Sweet Honey in the Rock, , changed after establishing a relationship has gained an audience that has stretched refused to disappear, making occasional and later Diamond Teeth with the Rice brothers. far beyond their mountain home to include reunion appearances. When Sawtelle passed Mary, a blues performer who inspired many all corners of the United States. Singer/ away in 1999, the surviving members brought folk artists through her performances at the Rev. Robert Jones Sr. songwriter Amanda Anne Platt’s voice has brilliant guitarist on board Florida Folk Festival. Veronika Jackson has Saturday and Sunday been described as “perfectly unadorned” and carried on with appearances. taken the acoustic folk guitar and the his- The Rev. Robert Jones Sr. is an inspira- and “recklessly beautiful.” Amanda’s song tory of her culture as an African-American tional storyteller and musician celebrating “Little Bird” won second place in the general InterACTive Theater of Jef woman and has generated her own original, the history, humor and power of American category at MerleFest’s Chris Austin Song- Friday, Saturday and Sunday authentic and exciting style of music. roots music. His deep love for traditional writing contest in 2011. Rounding out The When you run into Jef either on the Little African-American and American traditional Honeycutter are Tal Taylor (mandolin), Rick Pickers Stage or roaming throughout the Johnnyswim music is shared in live performances that Cooper (bass) and Jos Milligan (drums). festival, his wacky version of mime and Saturday interweave timeless stories with original and variety arts will be sure to tickle your fancy. At first listen, it’s easy to understand why traditional songs. For more than 25 years, Hot Rize with Red Knuckles He’s always excited to entertain the child “” declared Abner Jones has entertained and educated audi- and the Trailblazers in all of us. Back in the 1970s and ‘80s, Jef Ramirez and Amanda Sudano Ramirez are ences of all ages. At the heart of his message Thursday apprenticed with mimes C.W. Metcalf, Tony “21st Century troubadours.” As Johnnyswim, is the belief that our cultural diversity tells It didn’t take long after Tim O’Brien, Montanaro and Jacques Lecoq. Along the they embody the tradition of the well-trav- a story that we should celebrate, not just Pete Wernick, Nick Forster and Charles way he also studied period dance and style eled singer-songwriter while cultivating a tolerate. Jones, a Baptist minister, lives in Sawtelle first appeared on stage together with William Burdick and clowning with modern style that’s their own. With just a Detroit and performs throughout the U.S., in 1978 for the bluegrass music world to Ezekiel Peterhof. As a soloist and ensemble guitar and the scintillating contrast of their Canada and Europe. An award-winning realize Hot Rize was something special. member, he’s opened for the likes of the voices, the duo holds audiences spellbound. multi-instrumentalist, he is accomplished Upon retiring as a full-time act in 1990, Hot Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Doc Wat- The son of immigrants who fled Cuba for the at guitar, harmonica, mandolin, banjo and Rize had distinguished itself as IBMA’s very son. From 1976 to 1993 Jef was a member Southeast, Abner had moved to Nashville to fiddle. first , a nominee for of TOUCH, North Carolina’s touring mime study and pursue music while Amanda’s fam- a bluegrass Grammy, recipient of a four- theater ensemble. From 1993 through 1997, ily settled in Nashville after moving between Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road star album review in Rolling Stone, and Jef created and performed as Wool E. Bull, Los Angeles and the Northeast. Both inher- Saturday a legion of up-and-coming, broad-minded the mascot for the Durham Bulls base-ball ited strong musical influences from parents Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road’s distinct young musicians who toured across four team. and both were driven to chart their own sound and old-time flair can be attributed to the bluegrass-rich area of North Carolina continents. Steeped in bluegrass tradition paths. Abner attempted a solo career with from which they hail and borrow their name. through long hours listening to the genre’s Veronika Jackson a and Amanda recorded in New As the founding member and bandleader, giants, Hot Rize’s music was and is equally Thursday, Saturday and Sunday York. And then they met each other in 2005. Lorraine Jordan’s showmanship and chem- influenced by the music of Leadbelly and Veronika Jackson started her music istry with the audience makes the group one Freddie King, swing, old-time Appalachia career at the age of 10, singing in the school Mark Johnson and more in ways that mirror the broad choirs. She was raised in a musical family Friday and Saturday sweep of Bill Monroe’s influences. When in St. Petersburg, Fla. In her teens, her love Mark Johnson learned his trade from Jay Continued on Page 20

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versant with old-time, country, Artists bluegrass, rockabilly and blues. continued from Page 19 Local Boys of the most popular bands among Thursday and Friday bluegrass fans today. The band The Local Boys is a band that is comprised of Lorraine Jordan has been waiting for the appella- (mandolin, tenor vocals), Tommy tion “Americana,” as “bluegrass” JIM just doesn’t cover the material it Long (baritone vocals, guitar), Josh REV. ROBERT ROBERT KRUGER BROTHERS LAUDERDALE JACK LAWRENCE does. While all members of The Goforth (fiddle), Ben Green (banjo) JONES SR. EARL KEEN Local Boys have deep roots in tra- and Jason Moore (bass). The band brothers in the early ‘90s, together and his musical odyssey began at quently dropped by to play a tune. ditional music, they also have a love earned a reputation as one of the establishing The Kruger Broth- age 10 when his father took a job Among those was Doc Watson, a for the musical styles that influ - hardest working in bluegrass, ers’ incomparable sound. Since a as sound engineer for a local music neighbor and close family friend enced and evolved from old-time averaging 60 bluegrass festivals formal introduction to American hall. From these early experiences, whose music helped shape Jeff’s country and bluegrass. The band in the U.S. and Canada annually audiences in 1997, their remarkable Jack developed his own talents and unique piano style. A professional along with headlining the Bluegrass facility with their instruments and found his major influences to be musician since age 14, Jeff is con- Continued on Page 21 Cruise and hosting the Canadian unique take on the American music Doc Watson, and

Bluegrass Awards, Christmas in have made The Kruger Brothers Django Reinhardt. Jack’s talents ® GET A FREE SHEEP PLUSHIE FROM SERTA - AMERICA’S #1 MATTRESS MANUFACTURER* the Smokies Bluegrass Festival and a fixture in the world of acoustic are featured on many of Doc’s Bluegrass in Cherokee. music. ” recordings including the Grammy Limited Time Only, winner “.” The While Supplies Last! Robert Earl Keen Jim Lauderdale solo project “About Time,” released Sunday Friday and Saturday in 1997, showcases Jack’s amazing Now three decades since the Jim Lauderdale is a two-time guitar style and rich, warm vocals. release of his debut album, with Grammy Award-winning musi- In 2001 he assembled some of the well over a dozen other records to cian and one of the most respected friends he most admires for an his name and thousands of shows artists in the bluegrass, country exciting recording project. FREE under his belt, Robert Earl Keen and Americana music communi- has blazed a peer-, critic- and fan- ties. Jim’s music has been featured Emory Lester lauded trail that’s earned him pio- on the ABC hit show “Nashville,” Friday and Saturday SHEEP GetGeet a Free SheeSheepp Plushie withwit the ppurchaseurchase neer – and living legend – status and he had several tracks on the Emory Lester is one of thi s of anyny Serta® Perfect SSleeperleeper®! in the Americana music world. soundtrack of the successful film day’s foremost exponents of the Inducted into the Texas Heritage “Pure Country.” Lauderdale has acoustic mandolin. The power and in 2012, always stayed true to his North Car- attack of his mandolin playing Keen has built a reputation as one olina roots but is influenced from are unmatched, and his sound is of the nation’s finest musical story- the experience of his travels. He has infectious. His landmark recording tellers. Keen manages to strike an helped pave the way of the current projects “Pale Rider,” “The Emory unusual balance between sensitive Americana movement writing, and Lester Set,” and “Cruisin’ the 8” Somerfi eld Firm Extra Firm or Ultra Plush Super Pillow Top recording songs that cross genres have placed him among the elite $499 $699 $799 story-portraits and raucous bar- Queen Set Queen Set Queen Set room fun in his creations. These from country, pop, roots, rock, folk mandolinists of our time. His lat- $479 $729 $689 $919 $779 $989 two song types in Keen’s output and bluegrass. Lauderdale won his est solo recording titled “At Dusk” Full Set King Set Full Set King Set Full Set King Set were unified by a mordant sense of first Grammy Award in 2002 with showcases Emory’s musical cre- humor that strongly influenced the Dr. for “Lost in the ativity and skill as a mandolinist Gel Memory Foam or Hybrid Technology early practitioners of what would Lonesome Pines” and then for “The and multi-instrumentalist. Emory Serta makes it easy to choose! become known as alternative coun- Bluegrass Diaries” in 2007. As a has undeniably inspired and influ- try music. Keen, the son of an oil performer Jim is credited with pro- enced many of today’s current Intelligent Comfort. 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Joel Landsberg, a New York City vocals provide listeners with per- not surprising that he began playing native who also had a very exten- formances that span musical tradi- piano at age 5. His family ran Little’s 527 East Main Street sive musical upbringing, joined the tions. Jack grew up in Charlotte, Music Store, where musicians fre- North Wilkesboro, N.C. 336-838-2061 MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 21 Artists continued from Page 20 is fairly standard in its acoustic instrumen- tal arrangement: guitar, bass, banjo, Dobro and mandolin. Where it differs is that it has four superb lead vocalists that also sing LOCUST HONEY STRING BAND harmonies: John Akin, Aaron Soots, Eric life, and carries forward a valuable tradition. Childers and Tommy Rape. This gives them MacLeod is known for his superb songwrit- an unparalleled ability to find the perfect ing, guitar wizardry, warm soulful vocals, wit combination of voices. If you like bluegrass, and unforgettable live performances. At the you’ll like The Local Boys. heart of this is his knack for storytelling. As a youth he overcame abuse and a crippling Locust Honey String Band stutter by turning to music. While he devel- Saturday and Sunday oped his rich, soulful singing style, MacLeod Born in Georgia, singer and fiddler Chloe also worked out a unique, unorthodox and Edmonstone channels generations of women powerfully rhythmic acoustic guitar style. in her original songs, writing odes to jilted lovers, hard drinkers, and independent souls Marshall Tucker Band that can walk hand in hand with the old-time Friday mountain songs that have been carefully In the early fall of 1973, The Marshall selected for Locust Honey’s new album, Tucker Band was still a young and hungry “Never Let Me Cross Your Mind.” The new group of musicians out to prove themselves album showcases the dynamic partnership every time they hit the stage. Their debut of Edmonstone and renowned old-time musi- album had already spawned numerous hits. cian guitarist/singer Meredith Watson, the The collective talents of The Marshall Tucker core of Locust Honey. The two carefully Band over the next four decades has made crafted the arrangements and harmonies and the band legendary with its definitive blend of sang so closely that they could be siblings. rock, rhythm & blues, jazz, country and gos- pel. MTB’s new vinyl “Greatest Hits” release Loose Strings Band is a time capsule from that period. Still led Saturday today by founding member and lead singer The Loose Strings Band comprises a group Doug Gray, the band represents a time and of young women ranging in age from 17 to place in music that will never be duplicated. 21. They are all from Southwest Virginia Gray is quick to credit the band’s current and have been together for about 10 years. dynamic members with carrying on the time- They enjoy playing at festivals, weddings, less essence of The Marshall Tucker Band benefits and churches. Three of the band sound. Current members include the highly members are now in college, and two are respected drummer B.B. Borden, a former seniors in high school. Despite their busy member of both Mother’s Finest and The schedules, they find the time for their music Outlaws; multi-instrumentalist Marcus Hen- passion. They enjoy playing bluegrass, gos- derson of Macon, Ga., plays flute, saxophone pel and country music and are known for and keyboards in addition to lead and back- their tight vocal harmonies. As a highlight ground vocals; and Pat Elwood on bass guitar in their young career, they had the honor to and Rick Willis on lead guitar and vocals, work with , the banjoist and both of Spartanburg, S.C., are disciples of the leader of the . He was Caldwell Brothers. Acclaimed lead guitarist the band’s producer and wonderful mentor and vocalist Chris Hicks recently rejoined on their last two CDs, “The Next Chapter” the band after a two-year absence. and “Everlasting Faith.” Andy May Doug MacLeod Friday and Saturday Saturday and Sunday In a career spanning five decades and Doug MacLeod is the winner of the 2014 three regions of the nation, Andy May makes Blues Music Awards for Acoustic Artist of remark-able music that can be exuberant, the Year and Acoustic Album of the Year thoughtful, funny or bittersweet. His origi- (“There’s A Time”) and the 2013 Blues Blast nality and optimism combined with his love Music Award for Male Artist of the Year. He and respect for America’s musical roots shine is a singer-songwriter in the American tra- through his work. Mix the eclecticism of dition. He is a traveling artist who writes Bob Dylan, the mellowness of Don Wil- and sings original songs that are based on his liams, and the fire of Bill Monroe and you own life and experiences. He learned from the old masters, lived the music, survived the Continued on Page 22 22 • MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015

His business resume matches most sleepy town squares and the Artists high-ranking executives. scratchier bands of the AM dial continued from Page 21 has been a welcome development Bobby Miller and The in American music. And the ren- might come close to a description Virginia Dare Devils egade traditionalists of Mipso — of Andy’s music. He has been called Saturday Jacob Sharp (mandolin), Joseph a “troubadour of life,” an “Ameri- MARSHALL TUCKER BAND DEL McCOURY BAND Making innovative and original Terrell (guitar) and Wood Robinson cana music pioneer,” a “master of music is an ever elusive goal in this () — are doing their traditional American music styles” and Sons. bluegrass world. The Del McCoury day and age. The Virginia Dare Dev- part to take three-part harmony and an “upbeat roots rocker.” Band has shown unprecedented ils’ mission to do just that is well and Appalachian influences into Del McCoury Band stability, with but a single change in underway. From their beginnings new territory. The three North David Mayfield Parade Friday membership in 20 years; nine IBMA a year ago in the acoustic music Carolina songwriters have wan- Sunday For over 50 years, Del McCoury’s Entertainer of the Year trophies, hotbed of Asheville, this group of dered off the path blazed by Earl David Mayfield grew up playing music has defined authenticity for their namesake earned member- Americana veterans embarked on Scruggs and Doc Watson to find bass and touring with his family’s hard core bluegrass fans as well ship in the cast of the legendary an organic musical journey rooted a new clearing for their Southern bluegrass band. As a teenager he as a growing number of new fans “Grand Ole Opry” in 2003. in traditional melody and tone lay- string band sound. In the process, established himself as a hot picker, to the genre. McCoury is a living ered with improvisational solos and they’ve kicked up a fuss. collecting national awards for his link to the days when bluegrass Jason Lee McKinney Band textured rhythms reminiscent of dexterity on guitar and mando- was made only in hillbilly hon- Friday psychedelic jams of the ‘60s, while Bill Mize lin. His knack for colorful perfor- kytonks, schoolhouse shows and Jason Lee McKinney is a two- tipping the cap to ‘30s swing bands. Friday and Saturday mances was evident as a backing on the stage of the “Grand Ole time nationally-signed recording Add gritty arrangements, plus big Guitarist Bill Mize, a son of Ten- player in his sister Jessica Lea May- Opry,” yet also a commandingly artist, powerhouse vocalist and family-style vocals and you have nessee, is a fitting representative of field’s band, including its appear- vital presence today. He got his songwriter. McKinney and his the real thing. Members are Bobby his state’s rich musical heritage. His ance on “The Late Show with David first taste of the limelight when he band are fresh off a dominating Miller (mandolin, lead vocals), Griff critically-lauded fingerstyle com- Letterman.” He oozed personality joined Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass performance at the 2014 Indepen- Martin (guitar, vocals), Bill Cardine positions are fluid and intricate, on stage – a trait that makes him Boys in early 1963; the Father of dent Country Music Association (Dobro), Billy Gilmore (banjo), Tim and their delivery masterful. One a natural frontman. He brought Bluegrass moved McCoury from Awards held in his home state of Gardner (fiddle) and Rick Cooper suspects an influential teacher, and his skills and personality when he the banjo to guitar, made him his Tennessee. The Jason Lee McK- (upright bass). one would be right. “I received most joined the bluegrass outfit Cadillac lead singer, and gave him a life- inney Band snagged four awards of my musical education from a Sky and took the band into a new time’s worth of bluegrass tutelage. including Overall Artist of the Year, Mipso cheap Zenith radio,” says Mize, who realm, playing sold out shows with Flash-forward to the 1990s and The Best Americana/Folk Artist, Song Friday British folk revivalists Mumford Del McCoury Band is on top of the of the Year and Album of the Year. Americana’s jailbreak from Continued on Page 23 Now Open! 105 Oakwoods Road • Wilkesboro, N.C. (Brushy Mountain Road) 336-838-7200

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Nashville Bluegrass Band Artists Saturday and Sunday New Country Rehab continued from Page 22 With two Grammy Award-win- Saturday ning albums and two Entertainer New Country Rehab cuts through as a child drifted off to sleep to the of the Year honors from the the clutter of watered-down musi- decidedly non-sleepy lullabies ema- International Bluegrass Music cal imitations with a modern, high- nating from Nashville’s WLAC and Association, four-time IBMA voltage, alt-country sound. Invited WSM and Knoxville’s WNOX. Mize Vocal Group of the Year Nashville by both the Americana Music Asso- is a past winner of the National Fin- MIPSO MTN. PARK OLD TIME BAND Bluegrass Band is no stranger to ciation and International Bluegrass gerstyle Guitar Competition at The acclaim from critics and fans alike. Music Association to showcase in in Winfield, Cahalen Morrison and Eli West was formed seven years ago as a The band’s members are sought- 2014, New Country Rehab proves Kan. And he received a Grammy Saturday group of friends who happened after, first-call studio musicians, that combining sharp innovation Award for his collaboration with If we know what makes to enjoy old-time music who got known for a superior level of cre- and a deep respect and knowl- musician and storyteller David Holt music timeless, perhaps we should together to have a good time. ativity and a commitment to tra- edge of timeless musical themes on the recording “Stellaluna.” look to things that truly are time- Members of the band include ditional music styles. Collectively and motifs pays off. Spearheaded less, like the windswept, scoured Roger Stamper (fiddle, vocal), and singularly, the band members by John Showman (lead singer, Moore Brothers Band face of a rock bluff in arid New Dr. Mark Handy (banjo, vocal), have virtually defined the modern fiddle), who is joined by Roman Friday and Saturday Mexico or a rain-drenched, foli- Johnny Gentry (guitar, Dobro, bluegrass sound. Three original Tome (drums, backing vocals), the Most folks are taken aback when age-choked nurse log in a Pacific vocal), C.T. Janney (washboard, members are still in the group – Toronto-based collective is “poised they first see 16-year-old Jacob Northwest forest. To understand flatfoot dancer) and Nancy Gen- Alan O’Bryant (banjo), Pat Enright to be the next big thing in Canadian (mandolin, banjo, fiddle), 20-year- the music of American roots duo try (bass). The band has played at (guitar) and (man- music,” (Tom Power, CBC Radio). old Daniel (bass) and 11-year-old Cahalen Morrison and Eli West, Bristol Rhythm and Roots for the dolin), though Compton left for 12 Isaac (guitar) of Hickory. Don’t let perhaps the best way is to look to past three years, the Carter Fold years. Award-winning fiddler Stuart North Mississippi Allstars their fresh faces fool you; this trio nature. After all, it was the natural several times a year, the Allegh- Duncan joined the band in 1985. Friday means business. Together, they vistas of Tierra Amerilla in north- any Jubilee the second Saturday Bass player Andy Todd, came on North Mississippi Allstars, weave a musical tapestry that ern New Mexico, and Seattle, Wash., of every month, and Live at the board in 2005. In 2002, Pat Enright formed in 1996, is the product of honors tradition and welcomes that first inspired these young roots Rex several times a year. They became one of the voices of the a special time for modern Mis - progress, melding a love of tone musicians. have been featured on “All Things Soggy Bottom Boys in the movie sissippi country blues. Brothers and harmonies with a fiery stage Considered” on NPR for playing “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” Alan Luther and Cody Dickinson soaked energy that wins over even the most Mountain Park Old Time Band at the second longest radio show O’Bryant, Mike Compton and Stu- up the music of their father, Mem- jaded listeners. Saturday in the country on WPAQ. art Duncan appeared on the film’s Mountain Park Old Time Band Platinum soundtrack. Continued on Page 24

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in Jackson County and has been Peter Rowan’s original songwrit- Artists playing the fiddle and singing since ing is the driving force of his continued from Page 23 she was a young girl. Joining the musical diversity. The legend- duo on bass and guitar is William’s ary bluegrass singer-songwriter phis legend Jim Dickinson, and longtime music partner, Andrew and Grammy Award winner has absorbed the North Mississippi Payseur of Iron Station. been performing since 1963, and legacy while playing and shaking today he is still making waves NORTH MISSISSIPPI it down in the juke joints with their Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis in the music world. A solo Peter ALLSTARS RAGBIRDS CAROL RIFKIN blues ancestors. R.L. Burnside, Friday Rowan performance is one for the Junior Kimbrough, Otha Turner ist Brian Crist, spinning over the Festival, hosts MerleFest’s Dance “Our Year,” the latest release true music lover. Peter Rowan’s and their musical families were at world-beat grooves of drummer Stage, narrated a documentary of Bruce Robison and Kelly Wil- bluegrass career started as a Blue their peak, making classic records Loren Kranz and percussionist short from Western Carolina Uni- lis, elevates them closer to the Grass Boy in 1964. By Bill Monroe’s and touring the world. Eventually, Randall Moore. The Ragbirds were versity about the region’s tradi- lofty territory once occupied by own admission, Peter sounded a Luther (guitar, vocals) and Cody formed in 2005 with the release of tional music history and studies Johnny ’n’ June and George ’n’ lot like him. When the two harmo- (drums, vocals) formed the North “Yes Nearby.” World-travel themed weekly under fiddler Arvil Free- Tammy. They fell in love while nized together, they were said to Mississippi Allstars and pioneered “Wanderlove” (2007) was Home- man. She is a co-founder of the Lake harmonizing together the night have reached “heavenly heights.” their own brand of blues-infused grown Music Network’s No. 1 sell- Eden Arts Festival. Carol is joined they met at an Austin, Texas, Monroe and Rowan co-wrote what rock. ing album in the fall of 2008. by friends Jeanette Queen and John party, and they still haven’t lost has already become a bluegrass Fowler at MerleFest. the thrill of making that sweet, standard, “Walls of Time.” The Ragbirds Carol Rifkin & Friends singular sound, though it took Friday and Saturday (Jeanette Queen, John Fowler) William Ritter them until 2013 to release their Scythian Led by dynamic, energetic front Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sarah Ogletree first officially-billed joint effort, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, woman and multi-instrumentalist Sunday Friday “Cheater’s Game,” which was well Sunday Erin Zindle, The Ragbirds utilize an Carol Rifkin is a nationally- Traditional musician and song- received. After that, they created Infusing energy and passion arsenal of instruments from around known artist who has performed writer William Ritter began per- “Our Year,” a collection of for- of Ukrainian heritage with Celtic the world. The Ragbirds are a fusion with Tommy Jarrell and Doc and forming with fiancé Sarah Ogletree midable originals to well-honed and bluegrass traditions, Scyth- of and pop hooks over Merle Watson. She is an award- in 2011. Both are accomplished fid- covers. Willis’ singing career ian (sith-ee-yin) “reinvented folk danceable world rhythms stirred winning musician (guitar, fiddle), dle players with a love for ballad began at 17. rock in America,” according to with a Celtic fiddler’s bow. Sur- dancer, journalist, public radio and harmony singing. William, a iHeartRadio’s Arroe Collins. Ed rounding Zindle’s earthy-sweet host (“This Old Porch”) and singer. native of Bakersville, a plays banjo, Peter Rowan Helms’ website “The Bluegrass voice is the whirlwind of guitar- Carol emcees events like Asheville’s fiddle, guitar and other “stringed Friday and Saturday ist T.J. Zindle and dynamic bass- annual Mountain Dance and Folk things.” Sarah Ogletree was raised A chameleon of musical genres, Continued on Page 25 Big Proud Supporter or small, of We care for Them All! Give your pet the quality veterinary care Music • Moments • Memories he or she deserves. We offer state-of-the- art medical, dental and surgical service for all types of pets, and our compassionate vets, technicians and support staff are dedicated to making each and every pet feel comfortable and secure. Check Out Our Many Veterinary Services Wilkes Veterinary Hospital Lillian W. Royal, DVM 336-667-1109 2nd Street Tyson Foods, Inc. • Wilkesboro Melissa D. Smith, DVM North Wilkesboro MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 25

we can use to foster and establish global project and tour. Joe is now a guitar instruc- Artists peaceful communities and how we might tor and solo performer. One of his songs won continued from Page 24 use new storytelling forms to help establish a writing award in 2007 at the prestigious a conflict-free world. Kansas Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield. Situation” calls Scythian’s recent album “Jump at the Sun” a “shine-fueled, fiddle- Steve and Ruth Smith Sons of the South Bluegrass Band flying hoedown.” Nashville’s Music City Roots Thursday and Saturday Saturday show says “[Scythian is] what happens when SCYTHIAN Musical duo Steve and Ruth Smith, from Sons of the South performs traditional rock star charisma meets Celtic dervish fid- bluegrass band from Newton, has something North Carolina’s , play bluegrass as well as original materials. In dling.” Hailing from Washington, D.C., Scyth- to offer all ages. Their ages range from 13 a distinctive blend of Appalachian Ameri- 2014, the band won first place at the Yad- ian, which recently toured Ireland, merges to 82 years. The original band members, cana music with Celtic roots, featuring ham- kin County Fiddler’s Convention, claimed classical prowess with thunderous energy Clinton Sigmon, his two sons Randy and mered and Appalachian mountain dulcimer, fourth place at the Galax Fiddler’s Conven- to a barn-dance rock concert experience. Mark, and lifelong friend Ray Barger, have old-time banjo and guitar. They were named tion, and performed at IBMA’s 2014 Wide been performing together since the early Americana Instrumental Group of the Year Open Bluegrass Street Festival. The band Sheets Family Band ‘70s. Randy’s daughter Anna plays banjo, at the 2013 Appalachian Cultural Music was founded in the 1950s with Avery Aiken Friday and Sunday and Mark’s kids, Beau, Mollie and Maggie, Association Awards. In 2014, the Smiths (banjo) and Luther Souther (guitar). It The Sheets Family Band, an old-time complete the band. Beau is on lead guitar and were inducted into the National Traditional was reestablished in the 1980s with Tommy string band from western North Carolina, mandolin, Mollie plays mandolin and sings Country Music Association’s America’s Old Killian (fiddle, vocals), Luther Souther (bass, features Randy Sheets (banjo), Kelly Sheets and Maggie and assists with vocals. Time Country Music Hall of Fame. vocals), Gary Isenhour (guitar, vocals) and Snider (fiddle) and Deborah Jean Sheets Gary Souther, son of Luther Souther. Gary (guitar). Celebrated for harmonizing and Kiran Singh Sirah Joe Smothers has opened for , energetic instrumentals, they embody the Friday Thursday, Friday, Saturday , Blue Highway and the Jeanette values of homemade and home-grown music Kiran Singh Sirah, executive director Joe is a native of North Carolina now in Williams Band. Connor Lambert (mandolin, and lifestyle. Their old-time mountain style of the International Storytelling Center in Georgia. While attending Appalachian State, vocals) has played mandolin for nearly 40 takes inspiration from the music of the Appa- Jonesborough, Tenn., is an artist, curator he met three other musicians and formed years. He traveled and played music with his lachian Mountains and beyond. You’ll hear and teacher. His career encompasses award- Fried Chicken and Watermelon. His band father, the late Garland Lambert. a variety of lively fiddle tunes, gospel songs, winning national and international arts, as had did a show with Doc and Merle Wat- ballads and a few drinking songs, too. well as cultural and human rights programs son, and Merle took a liking to this group of The South Carolina Broadcasters in the U.K. The workshop that Sirah pres- musicians. Joe joined Merle’s band, Frosty Friday, Saturday and Sunday Sigmon Stringers ents at MerleFest will explore the role of Morn, to record and play shows with Doc. The South Carolina Broadcasters are dog- Thursday and Friday storytelling in what he describes as one of Joe also joined Jack Lawrence to form the The Sigmon Stringers, a three-generation the greatest conflict prevention tools that duo Smothers and Lawrence for a recording Continued on Page 26

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Band in 1989. Since moving to Nashville in Artists Steep Canyon Rangers 1992, the band has toured widely, recorded continued from Page 25 Sunday frequently, nurturing its own sound, based The Steep Canyon Rangers are living, pick- on Larry’s crystal clear, easily recognizable matic about the deeply traditional style of ing proof that bluegrass music can adapt to tenor voice, while providing a musical home music they present. David Sheppard (guitar), its times without losing its history and that for some of the finest sidemen in contempo- Ivy Sheppard (fiddle, banjo, guitar) and Sarah artistry plus dedication can launch a major rary bluegrass history. Many appearances Osborne (banjo, guitar) all provide vocals career. In just over 10 years (a short spell in on the Grand Ole Opry and RFDTV have to create distinctive harmonies. Drawing bluegrass), this five-piece band has gradu- made the band a fan favorite all across the their inspiration from the and ated from stairwell jams at the University of U.S and Canada. Signature songs in Larry early country duos, The Broadcasters aim to North Carolina to America’s greatest stages, Stephenson’s vast catalog include “Patches,” keep the roots of American traditional music STEEP CANYON RANGERS including the Grand Ole Opry and a national “Yes, I See God,” “Clinch Mountain Mystery,” alive. From fiddle tunes to gospel favorites to tour with Grammy and Emmy-winning actor/ “Many Hills of Time,” “The Knoxville Girl,” originals you’ll swear you know, The Broad- equally shaped by their personal lives and comedian and banjo player . “The Knoxville Boy,” “The Pretty Blue Dress” casters’ performance will take you back in rural heritage. The Rangers won a Grammy in 2013 for Best and “The Violet and the Rose.” In 1996, Ste- time while making traditional music feel Bluegrass Album for “Nobody Knows You.” phenson was made a member of the Virginia right at home in the 21st Century. The Steel Wheels The four founding Rangers – Woody Platt Country Music Hall of Fame by the Virginia Saturday (lead vocals, guitar), Mike Guggino (man- Folk Music Association. The Spinney Brothers The Steel Wheels are renowned for their dolin), Charles R. Humphrey III (bass) and Friday and Saturday raw energy and chemistry on stage, where Graham Sharp (banjo) – added fiddler Nicky Stray Birds Comprised of Allan Spinney, Rick Spin- they cluster tightly around a single micro- Sanders in 2007. Friday ney, Gary Dalrymple and Terry Poirier, The phone to adorn Trent Wagler’s unmistakable The Stray Birds have been flying high Spinney Brothers are from the Annapolis tenor with bell-clear four-part harmonies Larry Stephenson Band since the 2012 release of their critically- Valley of Nova Scotia and debuted in 1992, complemented by Eric Brubaker’s fiddle, Thursday acclaimed self-titled album. Three years, showcasing a tight brother duet vocal style Brian Dickel’s upright bass and Jay Lapp on Highly regarded as one of bluegrass music’s hundreds of gigs and thousands of high- that was immediately recognized for its ener- the mandolin and guitars. The band’s own finest high lead and tenor vocalists, Larry way miles later, the genre-melding acoustic getic and distinctive sound. The cornerstone brand of acoustic Americana roots music Stephenson has been a headliner for over 20 trio just made its Yep Roc Records debut. of their musical identity is their thorough reflects styles of the past yet boldly embodies years. He was on the mandolin at age five, Known for songwriting, instrumental virtu- understanding of traditional, Southern-fla- the strength of powerful original songwrit- cutting his first record at age 13. Stephen- osity and three-part harmony singing, their vored bluegrass music. The first generation ing. The Steel Wheels are selling out venues son has been a touring bluegrass musician most cohesive and ambitious album to date, bluegrass legends have been an important from coast to coast and appearing at many since he played with his dad beginning in the musical influence, yet the brothers’ music is of the top festivals in the U.S. mid ‘70s. He started The Larry Stephenson Continued on Page 27 Mike’s

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14 years. “We want to sound like Europe, Thorn returned with 2008’s Artists western North Carolina,” added “A Long Way from Tupelo.” In 2010 continued from Page 26 Sutton. “It’s not bluegrass, it’s not he released “Pimps and Preachers,” old-time, it’s mountain music, and and followed it in 2012 with his first “Best Medicine,” was released in it’s ours. It has a unique kind of all-covers collection, “What the Hell October. Multi-instrumentalists bounce.” Said Coleman. In addition Is Goin’ On?” and “Too Blessed to and vocalists Maya de Vitry, Oli- to being considered one of the best Be Stressed,” in 2014. modern flatpickers, Bryan Sutton ver Craven and Charlie Muench STRAY BIRDS THORN STRING MADNESS hail from Lancaster, Pa. All three has enjoyed a successful career as Time Sawyer are classically-trained musicians as soloist and band leader includes on two Grammy Award-winning a first call session musician. For Saturday who’ve been making music of all stints in both northern and south- records. After Skaggs, Bryan went the last 40 years, David Holt has Time Sawyer from the Elkin area kinds since childhood. ern California. on to build a career as a top studio learned traditional music from is interested in “real people and guitarist in Nashville. Southern mountaineers. real songs” and that’s just what String Madness Bryan Sutton the listener finds in their music. Friday and Saturday Friday Sutton, Holt and Coleman Paul Thorn Time Sawyer blends a grassroots Three hot instrumentalists pool Bryan Sutton is one of the most Friday and Saturday Sunday feel with heart-felt lyrics to put their talents to form String Mad- sought-after acoustic guitarists on Grammy Award winners Bryan Tupelo’s Paul Thorn is the on a high-energy show. The folk ness, playing all-instrumental, all- the planet. Born in Asheville. Sut- Sutton, David Holt and T. Michael son of a Mississippi Pentecostal rock band’s name reflects the pull acoustic music from Bach to Bebop. ton grew up in a musical family and Coleman explore the rich musical preacher; was in his between the past and the future. The players are Mitch Greenhill, was immersed in the rich heritage traditions of North Carolina. Each blood from birth and has remained Sam Tayloe (lead vocals) and Kurt Bob Applebaum and Peter Spelman. of Western North Carolina music. has been inspired by and performed a lifelong passion. Thorn released Layell (lead guitar) recorded an Mitch Greenhill has appeared at Bryan started playing guitar at the with Doc Watson. Their latest CD, his debut album, “Hammer and acoustic EP together in 2009, but MerleFest for many years. He age of eight. By high school gradua- “Ready for the Times,” captures Nail,” in 1997, followed by 1999’s the addition in 2010 of Houston served as Doc and Merle Watson’s tion, he was immersed in bluegrass, this vibrant legacy with impeccable “Ain’t Love Strange.” A formidable Norris (banjo) and Clay Stirewalt manager, and blues jazz and rock ‘n’ roll, playing in an musicianship and singing. “Doc was guitarist, Thorn decided to show- (drums) allowed them to create a sidekick. Bob Applebaum’s 40-plus array of bands and making his first a huge influence on all of us. We are case his guitar skills on “Mission richer sound. Time Sawyer’s first years of professional experience in recordings. He added mandolin, following his lead in performing a Temple Fire Works Stand.” His 2004 album, “Time for a Change,” placed stage, recording, television and film banjo and fiddle skills to his already wide range of songs and tunes that “Are You with Me?” used a more on WNCW’s list of Top 20 Regional include work with Belá Fleck, Pete considerable guitar abilities. He reach out and grab people. We are stripped-down style of production Albums of 2011. Its follow-up is “The Wernick, Stewart Duncan, Rich- seemed to come out of nowhere in not trying to recreate the past. We and R&B-based grooves. After a Maroon Album.” ard Greene and Mason Williams. 1995 as a member of ’ are playing music for today,” said four-year break from recording, Peter Spelman’s extensive history Kentucky Thunder band, playing Holt, who accompanied Doc for though still touring the U.S. and Continued on Page 28

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ToneBlazers Thursday and Friday ToneBlazers’ repertoire is an Americana mix of their own original material. The Tone- Blazers’ have released two albums: “Red Clay Roots” and “Gold Rush Town.” Jack TRAMPLED BY TURTLES THE WAYBACKS UNDERHILL ROSE WILLIE WATSON Lawrence (guitar, vocals) is a guitar power- house. Jack has played with Carl Story, the , Peter LaFarge and The Freedom of founding members Lee Shuford (dobro, bor and picking pal of . 1970s “newgrass” movement bands Singers gathered in ’ stu- vocals), Audie McGinnis (guitar, vocals) He has been a frequent guest at the homes String Band and Bluegrass Alliance, and in dio for an album called “Broadside, Vol. 1.” and Zane McGinnis (banjo). They came of Richard and Doc and RosaLee and often 1983 Jack accepted a job with Doc Watson, together for picking sessions at the home went on the road with either or both of them, touring and recording with the master for Two Man Gentlemen Band of Jack Bingham and soon were playing sharing their love of blues and mountain over 25 years. Jim Ashton (pedal steel guitar, Saturday locally and building a following. In 2012, music. We welcome Charles as a special guest banjo) is the ultimate utility-man among the Irreverent songwriters, expert instru- Matt Warren (upright bass, vocals), Ty Gil- at MerleFest. songwriting circuit. Jim’s silk-sound pedal mentalists and consummate showmen, pin (mandolin, vocals) and Tim Gardner The Two Man Gentlemen Band has devel- (fiddle, vocals) joined the band. With a rep- Pete and Joan Wernick steel guitar, fusion-brained banjo and origi- Thursday and Friday nal compositions are all stout. Billy Gee oped a reputation as a must-see live act ertoire of original bluegrass, traditional on the roots and retro music circuits. A bluegrass and creative covers, the band Also known as Dr. Banjo and Nurse Banjo, (bass, vocals) is the consummate bassist. Pete and Joan are MerleFest regulars going He has rocked with Bo Diddley and toured hot swing duo in the tradition of the great opens itself to an even wider audience Slim & Slam, The Gents have obvious and brings passionate energy to the stage. back to Pete’s appearances with Hot Rize with bluegrass legend Charlie Waller as a in the early years of the festival. The duo affection for the sounds and styles of the member of the Country Gentlemen. Dale specializes in down-home harmonies. Joan’s ‘20s and ‘30s. But, they’re no period piece. Willie Watson Meyer (electric/acoustic/resonator guitars, unique and soulful singing is set off by Pete’s The decidedly contemporary feel of their Sunday vocals) fronts the band. masterful banjo work. As a band organizer, lyrics and the breakneck pace at which Folk singer and multi-instrumentalist performer and songwriter, he catalyzed the Trampled By Turtles they attack many of their tunes creates (guitar, banjo, harmonica) Willie Wat- groundbreaking progressive band Country Thursday a thoroughly modern ruckus. son can be murderous, bawdy or lustful, Progressive bluegrass band Trampled By sometimes in the course of a single song, Cooking, Hot Rize and his ongoing experi- mental project Pete Wernick & Flexigrass. Turtles is from Duluth, Minn., where front- Underhill Rose with a sly sense of humor that cuts to the man Dave Simonett formed the group in quick. He counters a masterful bravado Additionally, Pete is well known for his Thursday bestselling instruction books, videos and 2003. Simonett had lost most of his music Underhill Rose has put its talents to with the tragic fragility of one who has gear, thanks to a group of car thieves. Left workshops. Singer-guitarist Joan has hosted work to become synonymous with beau- been wounded. Born in Watkins Glen, with no more than an acoustic guitar, he a bluegrass radio show on KGNU in Boulder, tiful music, charming personalities and, N.Y., Watson discovered North Carolina pieced together a new band, taking inspira- Colo., since 1978. recently, increased momentum. With Elea- Appalachian fiddle and banjo players Tommy tion from bluegrass, folk and other genres nor playing her distinctive clawhammer Jarrell and Fred Cockerham. He was an origi- that didn’t rely on amplification. New to blue- Joe West & The Santa Fe Revue banjo style along with harmonica, Molly nal member of , grass music, Simonett filled his lineup with Friday, Saturday and Sunday Rose on guitar, and Salley plucking the which specializes in traditional American After an early career in the New York other genre new-comers, including fiddler string band sound. Ryan Young, bassist Tim Saxhaug, mando- upright bass, the trio has carved out a theater scene, Joe moved to Austin, Texas, place in the Americana scene. Eleanor’s and formed a group called Joe West and the linist Erik Berry and banjoist Dave Carroll. The Waybacks Trampled By Turtles’ first album, “Songs salty blues-inspired voice and Molly’s soar- Sinners. In 1999 Joe’s first self-released CD, ing range lead the group in tandem with Friday and Saturday “Jamie Was a Boozer,” received extensive from a Ghost Town” (2004), stood out for its The Waybacks draw freely from the old Salley’s country twang to create three-part indie radio play across the country and contemporary sound in a genre steeped in school and the old world, but The Waybacks harmony that is real and inspired. Molly in Europe. Joe began to tour the U.S. and tradition. “Blue Sky and the Devil” (2005) and are no throwback. They’ve been erroneously Rose and Eleanor Underhill’s musical part- Europe, sharing the stage with the likes of “Trouble” (2007) explored a similar sound. pigeonholed as a bluegrass band and cel- nership is the result of a chance meeting and the Violent Femmes. At The band’s fourth release, “Duluth,” received ebrated as purveyors of “acoustic mayhem.” at Warren Wilson College. Molly Rose’s the turn of the century, Joe returned to his the full support of the bluegrass community. They’re living proof that, in music anyway, beautiful voice resonated with Eleanor, hometown of Santa Fe where he led several “Duluth” peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard evolution and intelligent design are entirely and the two started performing together. different bands and musical projects most bluegrass chart. “Palomino” (2010) was met compatible. “The whole spirit of improvisa- with an even greater response, debuting at Underhill Rose formed in 2009, and the notably The Santa Fe All Stars. In 2005 Joe’s tion – that’s always been the cornerstone CD, “The Human Cannonball,” reached No. 2 the top of the bluegrass chart and remaining addition of Salley Williamson two years of this band for me,” says founding singer, in the Top 10 for more than a year. later created the trio. in the European Freeform Americana Radio songwriter and guitarist James Nash. Besides Charts. Happy Traum Nash, The Waybacks include drummer Chuck Unspoken Tradition Hamilton, bass player Joe Kyle Jr. and the Friday, Saturday and Sunday Friday Ted White Happy Traum began playing guitar and newest member, fiddler and mandolinist War- Friday and Saturday Unspoken Tradition makes sure that ren Hood. The Waybacks host the hugely five-string banjo as a teenager and was an its music honors the creators of heritage Ted White is a bluegrass bass player, dance active participant in the legendary Green- popular Hillside Album Hour at MerleFest caller and storyteller from Henderson County. music, grows within tradition by adding an each year. wich Village folk scene of the 1950s and ‘60s. original approach, and maintains its role Stepping into that role for the Whitewater Happy first appeared on record at a historic as something for people who are united Charles Welch Bluegrass Company, White makes a central session in 1963 when a group of young folk through the love of great music. The Saturday and Sunday musical contribution and adds to the band’s musicians, including Bob Dylan, , band started in Cherryville, hometown Charles Welch is a longtime friend, neigh- Continued on Page 29 MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 29 Artists lard (drums). continued from Page 27 Blake Williams Friday, Saturday, Sunday performances with storytelling, An accomplished multi-instru- Opry-style comedy and dance-call- mentalist, Blake Williams toured ing. Among the kinds of dances he with Bobby Smith & The Boys from can call, White lists the big moun- SHANNON Shiloh fresh out of high school, tain circle, Western swing, contra TED WHITE WHITEWATER RAMBLE BRANDON WHYDE WHITWORTH played banjo for Lester Flatt and and old-time. In addition to being the Nashville Grass until Lester’s the recipient, with his bandmates, vocals), Patrick Latella (acoustic passionate presence and talent. Whyde’s saving grace when his death in 1979, and played with Bill of a North Carolina Arts Council guitar, vocals), Howard Montgom- Whitworth’s style found its first father was killed by a drunk driver. Monroe for 10 years. In 1991, Blake grant and the Pfaff Cup from War- ery (upright bass, vocals), Zebulon showcase in her 2007 solo debut, Discovering poets like Bob Dylan was hired to play bass with Hee Haw ren Wilson College, White’s work as Bowles (fiddle, vocals) and Jack “No Expectations.” Her 2009 criti- soon introduced a new world to him. star, comedian and Grand Ole Opry a musician, caller, storyteller and Watson (drums). Whitewater Ram- cally-acclaimed “Water Bound” gar- Whyde picked up a guitar and never member . He has played humorist has given him opportuni- ble’s second studio release, “Roots nered Whitworth praise. She has looked back. During a side-stage at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Cen- ties to perform at Warren Wilson & Groove,” showcases the band’s performed at the Philadelphia Folk performance at an Indianapolis ter, and the Lincoln Center. Blake College, the Mountain Heritage growth as songwriters and musi- Festival, Nashville’s Ryman Audito- amphitheater, a featured perform- recorded two albums with Lester Center and the Carter Family Fold. cians. Produced by Tim Carbone of rium and elsewhere. Whitworth’s er’s guitarist liked what he heard Flatt and six albums with Bill Mon- , the album features latest release is “High Tide.” A Gib- from Whyde and invited him to his roe. One of them, “Southern Flavor,” Whitewater Ramble an array of special guests such as son SG joins Whitworth’s quiver of home to record demos. A year later won the first Grammy for Bluegrass Saturday Infamous Stringdusters’ Andy Hall acoustic guitar, banjo and ukelele, those recordings found their way Album of The Year. He recorded Described as high-octane Rocky (Dobro), ’s Andy and for the first time, the band is to Josh Kelley, who also liked them three solo projects, performed on Mountain dancegrass, Whitewa- Thorn (banjo), Grammy Award win- her own. “High Tide” calls upon the enough to invite Whyde to record projects by and Vince ter Ramble uses a simple ner John Macy (pedal steel) and Bill people who know her music best, with him. “He’s like Bob Dylan and Gill and performed regularly on the to craft its sound: start with blue- McKay (piano). from producer Seth Kauffman to Tom Waits got stuck in a blender and Grand Ole Opry for over 23 years. grass instrumentation, add drums bassist Bill Reynolds. out came Brandon Whyde,” Kelley and finish with a boundary-less Shannon Whitworth says. Whyde projects a soul-searing Tony Williamson approach to grassing-up every- Sunday Brandon Whyde exorcism with both an impassioned Saturday thing from disco house grooves to Banjo-wielding songstress & The Devil’s Keep and roughhewn voice that breaks Mandolin virtuoso Tony William- roots to Americana. Whitewater Shannon Whitworth has attracted Sunday and melts. The Devil’s Keep is Chris Ramble is Patrick Sites (mandolin, international attention with her Music was a young Brandon Weller (upright bass) and Benji Bal- Continued on Page 30

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of artifice and flash, as a beacon of Artists authenticity. He has 12 gold albums Ticket prices at the gate continued from Page 29 and nine platinum or multi-platinum albums, including the triple-plat- Multi-day options general admission: $155. son has dazzled audiences far and inum “This Time.” Five of those • Four-day reserved seating wide for many years, per-forming albums have topped Billboard’s at Watson Stage (limited): $260 Single day options around the globe on stage and in Country Albums chart with another for rows one to 35 and $235 for • Thursday only: $50. the studio with , 14 landing in the Top 10. More than rows 36-51. • Friday only: $65. Earl Scruggs, , Vassar 30 singles have charted, with 22 • Four-day pass general • Saturday only: $70. Clements, , Sam going Top 20. He has two Grammys admission: $180. • Sunday only: $55. Bush, , Ricky Skaggs, and 21 nominations. • Friday, Saturday, Sunday Jerry Douglas, Don Stiernberg and Robin and Linda Williams of “Prairie Home Companion” fame. He has also received awards and LEE ANN WOMACK Take changing weather nominations from many national music organizations and has even performed for Luciano Pavarotti. in stride. A native of rural Piedmont North Carolina, Tony began playing music around 1957. With Tony on mando- lin and his brother Gary on banjo, they became child sensations and by 1969 had won first place in the coveted World Championship in Union Grove. Tony received an Indie nomination in Southern gospel music for his album “Let Us Cross Over the River.”

Lee Ann Womack Thursday Lee Ann Womack is an American country music singer/songwriter best known for her old fashioned- styled country songs. After several DWIGHT YOAKUM years as a professional songwriter, Womack became one of the break- the emotions are unbridled, the out contemporary country stars performances wide open and the of 1997 with her eponymous debut recordings intimate. album, which reached the Top 10 on the country chart. “A Season for Dwight Yoakam Romance” was released before the Sunday year’s end. In early 2003, Womack Few entertainers have attained Get $70 via MasterCard® Reward Card after submission* when you earned two Grammys: for Best the iconic status of Dwight Yoakam. buy any set of four new MICHELIN® passenger or light truck tires Female Country Vocal Performance ® ® Perhaps that is because so few including the MICHELIN Premier A/S tire. for “Something Worth Leaving have consistently and repeatedly Behind” and Best Vocal Collabora- met the high standard of excel- OFFER VALID 4/13/15 – 5/10/15. tion (Country) for her duet with Wil- lence Yoakam delivers no matter lie Nelson on “Mendocino County what his endeavor. Yoakam’s lat- Line.” “Call Me Crazy,” Womack’s est album, “3 Pears,” exemplifies * See redemption form for complete offer details. Offer expires 05/10/2015. Void where prohibited. The Reward Card cannot be sixth studio album, debuted at four reloaded with additional funds, nor can it be used at an ATM. Reward Card expires 6 months after issuance. For complete terms, conditions his ability to incorporate multiple, and fees, see the Cardholder Agreement in your card package. Reward Card issued by U.S. Bank National Association pursuant to a license on the Billboard country charts. competing influences into a piece of from MasterCard International Incorporated. MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. She sang with on his cohesive art. It balances his country Copyright © 2015 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved. The Michelin Man is a registered trademark owned by Michelin North America, Inc. 2010 cover of ’s “Ring of core with a fiercely independent Fire” and in 2014 signed with Sugar embrace of rock, Americana, pop Hill Records, which released “The and soul. Kentucky-born, - Way I’m Livin’ (2014),” recorded raised Yoakam has sold more than MYERS TIRE SERVICE INC. almost completely live. Whether 25 million albums worldwide, plac- the vintage country of Hayes Carll’s ing him in an elite cadre of global Three convenient locations to serve you “Chances Are,” the scalding gospel superstars. Yet sales have never 400 E. Main Street Highway 16 North Highway 18 North of Mindy Smith’s “All the Saints” or compromised his musical integrity; Wilkesboro Millers Creek North Wilkesboro the tortured linger of love in Buddy he brings a knowing, glorious edge Miller’s “Don’t Listen to the Wind,” to his delivery and stands, in a world 838-0011 667-1931 667-9338 MerleFest • Wilkes Journal-Patriot • April 2015 • 31

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