Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion 2018

SEPTEMBER 21-23, 2018 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRISTOL #BRISTOLRHYTHM | BRISTOLRHYTHM.COM

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

Table of Contents 2

Welcome

4

Calendar of Events

6

Visitor Information

8

Sponsors/Contributors

11

Artist/Festival Merchandise

11

List of Downtown Restaurants

17 Artist Lineup Removable Festival Map & Schedule Inside Connect with us: BristolRhythm.com | 423.573.1927 Info@BirthplaceofCountryMusic.org BristolRhythm.com | #BristolRhythm

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Welcome to the Reunion, Friends!

Welcome to Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 2018!

It’s hard to believe that 18 years have passed since our first festival, held in October 2001. For those of you who were there, you’ll remember Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion as a much smaller event — and you may recall Bristol’s historic downtown much differently than the vibrant place that it is today. We are so proud of the progress Bristol has made and look forward to an even brighter future for the Birthplace of Country Music!

This year we are excited about the return of the classic Cameo Theatre stage and the addition of the Bloom Café & Listening Room as new venues.

Our annual Children’s Day celebration will move to Anderson Park — a place with lots of shade and a small playground. Yoga in the Park will move to Cumberland Square Park. Both of these events, plus our 5K Race, will take place on Saturday morning.

We are also especially proud of this year’s diverse lineup and look forward to a great weekend filled with fine music, good people, and lots of smiles. Thank you for being part of this year’s Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion!

Sincerely,

Larry Denney Chairman, 2018 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Committee

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Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Welcome

The Birthplace of Country Music

Meet our Team BCM BOARD Dan Bieger Larry Denney Jasen Eige Larry Gorley Bill Hartley Edd Hill Larry Kirksey Emily Lee Keith Liskey Rob Nicar Lea Powers Danielle Starnes Ed Stout Julie Thomas Spike Tickle Brent Treash Craig Turner Nita Vollmer

FESTIVAL COMMITTEE Festival Chair Larry Denney Artist Hospitality Terri Davis Artist Hospitality Jassen Campbell Artist Merchandise Eric Honaker Atmosphere Tabby Ellis Atmosphere Tara Russo Children’s Day Tasha Foy City of Bristol TN Rep Chad Keene City of Bristol VA Rep Neal Osborne Concessions Lisa Leonard Concessions Gwen Talley Souvenirs Angela Costagliola Souvenirs Jessica Fleming Green Team Sarah Tollie Logistics Terry Napier Logistics Matt Whetsel Music Dave Stallard Music Brent Treash Security Charlie Phelps Security Tony Deal Volunteers Wendy Sauls Volunteers Rebecca Moody

BCM STAFF Scotty Almany Summer Apostol Charlene Baker Erika Barker Tracey Childress Brett Davis Kim Davis Toni Doman Baylor Hall Hannah Holmes Becky Littleton Josh Littleton June Marshall Emily Robinson René Rodgers Leah Ross Nathan Sykes Kris Truelsen Cheryl Wedel

Connect with us: BristolRhythm.com | 423.573.1927 Info@BirthplaceofCountryMusic.org

In Memoriam Ben Collins

Elton Moore

Debbie Wagner

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2018 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

Calendar of Events Visit BristolRhythm.com for more information.

Bluegrass Jam Camp

SEPTEMBER 18-21, 2018 (TUESDAY–FRIDAY) LOCATION: JUBILEE HOUSE RETREAT CENTER

The Bluegrass Jam Camp is designed to give campers knowledge, clues, and practical experience by playing by ear with others. Our “One Room Schoolhouse” is perfect for entry level and advanced pickers alike. Entry level pickers will focus on slow tempo, easy chords and gentle encouraging instruction. Intermediate and advanced pickers will explore exciting insights including improvisation, stage craft and lots more!

Thursday Night Kickoff Concert

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2018 | 7PM | $25 LOCATION: BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM

The Birthplace of Country Music proudly presents Cruz Contreras, of The Black Lillies, for a special Festival kickoff concert at the Museum. Contreras, a multiinstrumentalist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer, has roots in Tennessee and Michigan, but has impacted Americana music worldwide.

Tickets are $25 and are available to purchase at BirthplaceofCountryMusic.org.

5K Road Race

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018 | 8AM LOCATION: ANDERSON PARK Managed by We Run Events.

The Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 5K returns once again to downtown Bristol.

The race will begin at the intersection of Anderson St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Awards for the 5K will be given out immediately following the event.

Race day registration is from 6:30am to 7:30am.

Children's Day

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018 | 10AM - 1PM NEW LOCATION: ANDERSON STREET PARK

Children’s Day is a FREE event at Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, open to the community. Bursting with fun games, crafts, and performances, Children’s Day is designed to be an event the whole family can participate in together. Special thanks to Sullins Academy.

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Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Calendar of Events

Yoga Rocks!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018 | 11AM NEW LOCATION: CUMBERLAND SQUARE PARK

Join Bristol Yoga for yoga in the park. Bring a mat, your zen, and we’ll do the rest.

It’s a beautiful way to start your day! Cumberland Square Park is located on Cumberland Street.

Festival wristband is required to attend the event.

Guided Jam

SEPTEMBER 22 & 23 (SATURDAY & SUNDAY) | 12PM-5PM LOCATION: BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM

FREE! Did you bring your instrument to our festival but feel shy about taking it out and actually playing with other people? You are not alone, even if it sometimes feels that way! Join us for Guided Jam. Festival wristband is required to attend the event.

Farm and Fun Time

Presented by Radio Bristol SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018 | 8:30PM LOCATION: PARAMOUNT

Radio Bristol is proud to host a special Farm and Fun Time broadcast during the festival. Featuring Dale Watson, Bill and the Belles and more, this will be a Farm and Fun Time you don’t want to miss.

Festival wristband is required to attend the event.

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Through Your Eyes

SPECIAL EXHIBIT AT THE BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Through Your Eyes highlights images of bands and musicians, buskers on the street, and festival goers enjoying all that Bristol Rhythm has to offer. This exhibit is a chance to see the festival through our fans’ eyes and to celebrate the festival experience.

BristolRhythm.com | #BristolRhythm

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BRISTOL RHYTHM Friends of the Festival

Tickets CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER FREE 2018 WEEKEND PASSES: $135 AT THE GATE Includes Bristol, VA admission tax INDIVIDUAL DAY PASSES AT THE GATE: FRIDAY $55 | SATURDAY $65 | SUNDAY $50 Includes Bristol, VA admission tax.

Gates Open: Friday 1pm | Saturday 9AM | Sunday 10AM

Reunion policies NO COOLERS. NO ILLEGAL DRUGS. NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL PERMITTED.

Per Bristol, TN/VA City Ordinances, no alcohol or open containers are allowed outside designated, gated beverage gardens or restaurants where alcohol is served. PLEASE drink responsibly for your safety and the safety of others. Those who display inappropriate or sloppy behavior will be asked to leave the Festival.

NO PETS ALLOWED.

Service animals are permitted.

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Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Visitor Information

VISITOR INFO ADA Info ADA PARKING: ADA parking is available at Regions Bank (corner of Volunteer Parkway and Shelby Street, Bristol, TN — enter from Shelby Street). Once your state-issued auto identification is verified, you will be instructed where to park. ADA parking is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The Disabled Veterans of America operate the ADA parking area; donations for parking are appreciated.

SERVICE ANIMALS: Service animals are welcome at Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion and are covered under ADA Laws. Please note that pets and emotional support animals are not permitted. Emotional support animals are not ADA Service Animals.

GETTING IN AND AROUND: Scooters, wheelchairs, power chairs, and other mobility devices are only permitted for use by those with mobility disabilities. All entrance points into the festival are wheelchair accessible.

WHEELCHAIR AND COMPANION VIEWING AREAS: Bristol Rhythm provides reserved viewing areas for patrons with mobility challenges (and one companion) during the festival. A roped off area near or alongside the festival seating area at the eight outdoor stages is reserved for fans in wheelchairs.

ACCESSIBLE PORTABLE TOILETS: Accessible portable toilets are located throughout the festival footprint; please refer to the festival map for the closest location.

ACCESSIBLE ATMS: Several accessible ATMs are located throughout the festival footprint.

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS, AND SUGGESTIONS: Meeting the needs of our Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion fans with disabilities is a never-ending commitment. In our quest to continually improve accessibility, we ask that you contact us with your comments, questions, and suggestions at info@bristolrhythm.com.

Shuttle Schedule FRIDAY: 3:00pm – 1:00am SATURDAY: 10:00am – 1:00am SUNDAY: 10:00am – 8:00pm

SHUTTLE COST: $15 (Covers all weekend) CHILDREN (12 and under) ARE FREE

SHUTTLES WILL PICK UP/DROP LOCATIONS: BRISTOL MALL (Exit 1) 2.7 mi COURTYARD MARRIOTT (Exit 7, 3169 Linden Dr.) 4.6 mi.

DAYS INN (Exit 7, 1014 Old Airport Rd.) 4.8 mi FAIRFIELD INN (Exits 74A or 74B, 3285 W. State St.) 4.7 mi HAMPTON INN (Exits 74A or 74B, 3299 W. State St.) 4.7 mi HILTON GARDEN INN (Exit 7, 121 Village Circle) 6.7 mi.

HOLIDAY INN (Exit 7, 3005 Linden Dr.) 4.6 mi.

MOTEL 6 (Exit 7, 21561 Clear Creek Rd.) 5.6 mi.

QUALITY INN (Exit 7, 131 Bristol E. Rd.) 5.2 mi.

THUNDER MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND (2623 Volunteer Pkwy.) 6.7 mi.

SUGAR HOLLOW PARK CAMPGROUND (Exit 7, Lee Hwy. Pick up at softball & soccer fields) 6 mi. – Transportation from campground provided by the City of Bristol, VA. Cost for Sugar Hollow Park shuttle is $5 per trip. (Festival shuttle wristband does not apply to this shuttle route) BristolRhythm.com | #BristolRhythm

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BRONZE

SILVER

GOLD

PLATINUM

FESTIVAL SPONSORS

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ATMOS Energy BB&T Ballpark Signs Bank of Marion Boot Barn The Bristol Hotel Citizens Bank

Comfort Systems USA Elliot, Lawson, and Minor Emory & Henry College John & Brenda Fincher First Tennessee Bank HVAC, Inc.

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Festival Sponsors

Key Wood Specialties King University Lee Bank and Trust New Peoples Bank Pennstuart Renasant Bank

Rob Nicar Seaman Corporation Shearer’s Foods Inc. Virginia Electric Supply Wytheville…

There’s only one!

WE APPRECIATE YOU! PLATINUM MEDIA SPONSORS

MEDIA SPONSORS

HOST HOTELS

RTE 23 SPONSORS Dr. William C. Horne, Jr. DDS

UVA’s College at Wise

Wise County Tourism

The Inn at Wise

Brent Fleming Law Office Cavalier Comics Cavalier Pharmacy Conway Woodworking Crutchfield CSE Agency

Dr. David Sheppard Dr. Tommy Potter Edward Jones/The Office of James Lawson Home Changes Iron Order Motorcycle Club

Iron Works Cycling Laid-Back Travel Law Office of Jeff Ellkins Law Office of Jeremy O’Quinn Milton’s Powell Valley National Bank

Pro-Art Pulitzer Orthodontics Stone Mountain Guns Sykes Town of St.Paul Western Front Hotel

ASR Metals Bristol Yoga Campbell Printing Coca-Cola Deering Banjo

Highlands Union Bank La Leche League of Bristol Marsh Propane Meade Tractor Necessary Oil

CONTRIBUTORS Pratt -Triad Packaging Revolution Curbside Recycling Senior Solutions Home Care Mike and Karen Spear

State Street Brewing Company Sullins Academy VALIS, Inc.

BristolRhythm.com | #BristolRhythm

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Enjoy Downtown Bristol Restaurants

620 State Restaurant

Macado's

The Angry Italian

Machiavelli's

Bank Street Bristol

O'Mainnin's Pub & Grill

Blackbird Bakery

The Manna Bagel Co.

Bloom Cafe & Listening Room

Quaker Steak & Lube

Borderline Billiards

Shang Hai

Broad Street on State Retro Diner

The Southern Churn

620 E State St, Bristol, TN 37620 16 6th St, Bristol, TN 37620 14 Bank St, Bristol, TN 37620

56 Piedmont Ave, Bristol, VA 24201 606 State St, Bristol, TN 37620 628 State St, Bristol, TN 37620

616 State St, Bristol, TN 3762

Burger Bar

8 Piedmont Ave, Bristol, VA 24201

Eatz on Moore Street

17 Moore St, Bristol, VA 24201

714 W State St, Bristol, TN 37620 8 5th St, Bristol, TN 37620 712 W State St, Bristol, TN 37620 634 State St, Bristol, TN 37620 629 State St, Bristol, VA 24201 711 State St, Bristol, VA 24201

627 State St, Bristol, VA 24201

State Line Bar & Grille

644 State St, Bristol, TN 376200

Zachary's Steakhouse

724 State St, Bristol, TN 37620

www.DiscoverBristol.org

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

A rt i st L i neu p 20 1 8

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

50th Anniversary of Folsom Prison Blues

HOSTED BY THE NEW FAMILIARS & FRIENDS SUN. Cumberland Square Park 5:45p

North Carolina rock quartet The New Familiars invite an ensemble of musicians to join them in tribute to Johnny Cash’s legendary At Folsom Prison live album, recorded at Folsom State Prison in 1968. Bristol Rhythm audiences may remember past tributes to Levon Helms and The Grateful Dead by The New Familiars. Those in the know will mark this event on their schedules as a must-see.

Acoustic Syndicate

PROGRESSIVE BLUEGRASS, JAMGRASS FRI. State Street Stage 6:30p | SAT. Cumberland Square Park 6:15p Acoustic Syndicate is a musical institution. Since 1994, their unique blend of bluegrass instruments, rock sensibilities, and conscious songwriting has inspired a generation of musicians. Through 7 albums, thousands of performances, and tens of thousands of miles, Acoustic Syndicate has long been heralded as one of the most important influences on the modern roots music revival.

Adam Bolt & The Bevy

Sponsored by Emory & Henry College COUNTRY-FOLK FRI. Shanghai Stage 9:00p | SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 9:45p | SUN. O’Mainnin’s Pub 2:00p Adam Bolt possesses a unique and acclaimed solo style—it can guide you through your own demons (via yodeling) or make you shout rap lyrics to the stage. Bolt describes his music as “sensationalized, cynical, and seasoned songs in the key of country,” and his live performances may leave you laughing, crying, singing, and dancing.

Adam Lawson

Sponsored by: VALIS, Inc. FOLK, AMERICANA, COUNTRY SAT. Machiavelli’s Indoor 10:00p | SUN. Stateline Bar 12:30p East Tennessee singer-songwriter Adam Lawson puts a new spin on traditional folk music. Adam strives to constantly make his next song something honest and real. His latest album, LostHeart, is a collage of personal compositions and songs.

After Jack

FOLK-GRASS FRI. Bloom Cafe 7:30p | SAT. Theatre Bristol 8:30p Combine your most beloved musical memories with a foot-stomping string band, top it off with harmonies from the soul of the mountains, and you’ve got After Jack. Named 2014 Americana Vocal Group of the Year by the Appalachian Cultural Music Association, the trio fuses modern sensibility and old-time energy with elements of bluegrass, gospel and folk.

18 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Alli Epperson

AMERICANA SAT. Shanghai Stage 4:00p

Sponsored by Comfort Systems USA

Alli Epperson is a local singer and songwriter who has performed at a number of regional venues and events including Fun Fest and Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. She started playing guitar after being inspired by local musicians and is now introducing people to her own sound and songs that tell stories of her life journey.

The Amanda Cook Band

BLUEGRASS FRI. Country Mural Stage 7:00p | FRI. Cameo Theatre 9:45p Amanda Cook’s self-released first solo album, One Stop Along the Road, made it to Roots Music Report’s Top 150 Bluegrass Albums charts for 2014 and 2015. In 2017 Amanda recorded Deep Water with Mountain Fever Records. The title track debuted at #6 on the Billboard’s Bluegrass charts, #3 on Roots Music Report’s Bluegrass Top 50 and #7 on the Bluegrass Today charts, remaining in the top 10 there for 5 weeks.

Amber Leigh & Wes McDonough

AMERICANA FRI. Bloom Cafe 9:30p

With wide-ranging influences from classic country to R&B and more, the married duo of Amber Leigh and Wes McDonough creates a soulful Americana sound. Garnering many accolades over their careers, Amber most recently enjoyed success as a writer on the song “Angel on My Shoulder,” which was included on Reba McEntire’s GRAMMY-winning Best Roots Gospel Album, Sing It Now: Songs of Faith & Hope.

Amythyst Kiah Sponsored by Holston Medical Group

ALT-COUNTRY, BLUES SUN. State Street Stage 3:00p

Amythyst Kiah’s commanding stage presence is only matched by her raw and powerful vocals. Her self-described “southern gothic” sound is inspired by everything from early country and old time to blues and rock that spans decades. Her latest studio album, soon to be released, was produced by Dirk Powell and features Rhiannon Giddons on vocals.

Ancient Cities

ROCK SAT. 7th Street Stage 1:00p | SUN. Cameo Theatre 3:00p North Carolina’s Ancient Cities melds well-crafted lyrics with fuzzed-out guitars, hints of psychedelia, and pop sensibility. The trio was invited to the prestigious Newport Folk Festival’s 56th anniversary and were one of three bands chosen by Converse to play, as well as record, at Converse Rubber Tracks Studio in Boston, where they started work on their second album, Supermoon Blackout.

Available at the corner of 7th & State

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Andrew Alli

BLUES FRI. Theatre Bristol 8:15 | SAT. Bloom Cafe 5:30p Richmond, Virginia native Andrew Alli stumbled upon the blues while taking up his first instrument, the harmonica, and developed his style of playing by studying such greats as Little Walter, Big Walter Horton, Sonny Boy Williamson II, and Junior Wells. Andrew has had the privilege of touring internationally with folk musicians Tim Barry and Josh Small.

Andy Buckner Sponsored by VALIS, Inc.

SOUTHERN ROCK, ALT-COUNTRY FRI. Bloom Cafe 5:30p | SAT. Piedmont Station 12:30p | SUN. Studio Brew 12:30p

Andy Buckner’s music embodies a balance of party anthems and instantly relatable heartache healers. The 24-year-old’s grainy, soulful voice embraces his roots and shares authentic songs inspired by his Marshall, North Carolina upbringing. Andy made his national debut as a contestant on NBC’s “The Voice Season 9.”

Andy Ferrell Sponsored by VALIS, Inc.

COUNTRY-FOLK FRI. Studio Brew 6:30p

Boone, North Carolina native Andy Ferrell grew up in the heart of traditional Appalachian music and in the shadow of Doc Watson and his folk guitarist father. Those influences play a large role in Ferrell’s music, a sound that focuses on country songwriting with a bittersweet edge—much like his heroes Hank Williams and Townes Van Zandt.

Annabelle's Curse Sponsored by Elliott, Lawson & Minor

FOLK-ROCK, ALTERNATIVE FOLK FRI. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 11:45p

Bristol’s own Annabelle’s Curse is a five-piece, folk-rock powerhouse that has toured extensively, developed a devoted fan base, and supported acts such as Anderson East, HoneyHoney, and Humming House. The band has been a staple at Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion and has also performed at Floydfest, Rhythm and Blooms, Rooster Walk, and Music City Roots.

Annie Robinette

AMERICANA FRI. Quaker Steak & Lube 8:00p | SUN. O’Mainnin’s Pub 12:00p Bristol native and singer-songwriter Annie Robinette’s lyrics are direct and visual, intelligent, and relevant. Her sound is uniquely her own, delivered with power, emotion, and intensity. The music is sophisticated without being complicated and has a firm acoustic texture with just enough electricity.

Her voice is powerful, yet easy on the ear and polished.

20 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Asleep at the Wheel

WESTERN SWING SUN. Piedmont Stage 5:00p

The musicianship of Asleep at the Wheel has become the stuff of legends.

Reuter’s pegged The Wheel as “one of the best live acts in the business.” The band has constantly toured at a national level throughout its history; the alumni roster is well over 80+ members. The band has achieved a number of awards, including Lifetime Achievement in Performance (AMA 2009) and a number of GRAMMYs.

The Baker Family

BLUEGRASS, GOSPEL, CLASSIC COUNTRY SAT. Country Mural Stage 1:00p | SAT. Cameo Theatre 3:00p The Baker Family is a high-energy bluegrass band from South Central Missouri.

The group appeared on Season 12 of America’s Got Talent and was the International Country Gospel Music Association’s Band of the Year in 2016.

Collectively and individually, the group has won a number of state championships across the country.

Balsam Range

BLUEGRASS SAT. Country Mural Stage 8:45p

One of the genre’s most award-winning artists in recent years, Balsam Range has garnered 10 International Bluegrass Music Association Awards on the heels of six critically acclaimed albums. Balsam Range has left audiences spellbound while headlining major festivals from coast to coast, selling out venues across the nation, and appearing multiple times at the Grand Ole Opry.

Barns Courtney

ROCK SAT. 7th Street Stage 11:00p

Barns Courtney spent most of his childhood living in Seattle before returning to his native UK at age 15. The change of scenery comes across as clearly in his eclectic mix of blues-rock, hip-hop, and grunge—with British indie melodic sensibilities— as it does in his hybrid U.S.-British twang. The past few months have seen him winning over fans, opening for Ed Sheeran, and supporting The Libertines.

Bella Raye Sponsored by Holston Medical Group

POP COUNTRY SAT. Borderline Billiards 12:00p | SAT. Shanghai Stage 2:00p | SUN. Bloom Cafe 12:00p Bristol, Tennessee native Bella Raye is a singer-songwriter now living in Nashville and has worked with GRAMMY-winning songwriters and musicians, recorded music videos for The Voice and Kelly Clarkson, and recently completed her debut album, Dear 17.

$10

Admission

DURING THE FESTIVAL

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Ben Gilmer

AMERICANA SAT. Machiavelli’s Indoor 8:00p | SUN. Bloom Cafe 1:45p Southwest Virginia native Ben Gilmer is an Americana singer-songwriter with a sound derived from his Appalachian home, but influenced by the miles he has traveled. Ben has shared the stage with national artists such as The Head and the Heart and Joe Pug, and has three studio albums.

Beth Snapp Sponsored by Seaman Corporation

AMERICANA FRI. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 5:30p | SAT. Borderline Billiards 7:30p The music of singer-songwriter Beth Snapp might be considered pop-infused roots, but her appeal has little to do with the box of a genre—it’s about making a connection. She flits between folk, bluegrass, pop, early R&B and jazz to create a unique sound with one purpose: to tell a story.

Bill and The Belles

EARLY COUNTRY FRI. Near Moore Stage 8:30p | SAT. Paramount 8:30p Bill and the Belles continue to play alongside America’s top country and roots music artists as house band for Farm and Fun Time, the historic radio program presented by Radio Bristol and the Birthplace of Country Music. With striking three-part harmonies and masterful instrumentation, Bill and the Belles skillfully breathe new life into the sounds of early country music.

Billy Crawford Band

BLUES, ROCK FRI. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 7:30p | SAT. Paramount 12:45p Blues guitar might be associated with Mississippi, Texas, and Chicago, but Bristol’s very own Billy Crawford is creating some noise of his own. For the past three decades he has turned his six-string action toward the blues.

He’s toured with blues artist Deborah Coleman and continues to be one of the most sought-after blues acts in the region.

Birds of Chicago

AMERICANA SAT. 6th Street Stage 7:30p | SUN. Cumberland Square Park 3:45p For Birds of Chicago, every word counts. Every note counts. No gold-dusting, no filler. The Chicago Tribune described the band’s music as “a warm, organic sound that swings between soulful balladry and up-tempo roots rock.”

Music this raw and soul-rich demands to be experienced live.

22 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Blank Range

ROCK FRI. Cameo Theatre 7:45p | SAT. 7th Street Stage 3:00p

Rolling Stone described Nashville’s Blank Range as a “magical combination of dissonant, pavement-esque and pavement-ready garage rock & roll with a keen grasp of how to make it all wildly melodic—thanks to super-sticky riffs, restrained psychedelia and a sense of composition that’s restless, surprising and pretty fearless.”

Blue Highway

BLUEGRASS, GOSPEL, AMERICANA SUN. Country Mural Stage 2:30p Members of this legendary Kingsport, Tennessee-based quintet have achieved numerous accolades including 27 collective IBMA Awards, six SPBGMA Awards, one Dove Award, and three GRAMMY nominations as a band, plus two GRAMMY Awards among its current members. Their #1 album, Original Traditional, was nominated for Best Bluegrass Album at last year’s GRAMMYs.

The Boys

BLUEGRASS SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 11:30p | SUN. Shanghai Stage 12:30p The Boys embody the spirit of bluegrass, blues, and folk music.

Their own unique blend of these styles, with an added touch of jazz, funk, and soul, is what they like to refer to as Appalachian Americana.

Breaking Grass

BLUEGRASS SAT. Country Mural Stage 7:00p

With their fresh sound, original material, strong vocals and innovative musicianship, Booneville, Mississippi’s Breaking Grass is doing exactly what their name implies. Although not quite traditional, the music they present is without a doubt steeped in the timeless genre they listened to growing up.

Breaking Tradition

BLUEGRASS, GOSPEL FRI. Piedmont Station 5:45p | FRI. Machiavelli’s Indoor 8:30p A four-piece bluegrass band, Breaking Tradition brings high energy, tight harmonies, and capable musicianship to every performance. Playing together for nearly 20 years, the band continues to bring traditional bluegrass gospel music to their fans throughout the Tri-Cities. Band members include Lester Parks, Hal Boyd, Trever Bartley, and Dan Carty.

DON'T MISS THE FUN AT

Children’s Day NEW LOCATION: ANDERSON PARK

SATUR DAY, S E PTE MB E R 2 2 | 1 0 A M - 2 P M

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Buffalo Fiasco

BLUEGRASS FRI. Shanghai Stage 7:00p

Based out of Knoxville, Tennessee, Buffalo Fiasco performs traditional bluegrass music with a modern flair. The band is comprised of Evie Andrus, Brad Hitch, Dave Rasnake, and Camryn Cornett.

C2 & the Brothers Reed

ROCK FRI. 6th Street Stage 8:00p | SAT. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 5:15p Of C2 & The Brothers Reed, the Bristol Herald Courier notes: “They feast upon rock’s beggars banquet. An appetizer of Pink Floyd chimes with an entrée of Led Zeppelin and bites of Steppenwolf in the style and scope of C2 & The Brothers Reed. They take a sip of Kentucky and wash it all down with an approach that rocks according to them.”

Carson Peters & Iron Mountain

Sponsored by Holston Medical Group BLUEGRASS SAT. Country Mural Stage 4:00p At 13 years old, Carson Peters is a seasoned performer having played not only numerous major venues throughout the region, but also on national television and the Grand Ole Opry. Carson and his band, Iron Mountain, entertain audiences performing old-time, bluegrass, and gospel music.

Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen

FEATURING JOHN JORGENSON & MARK FAIN FOLK, COUNTRY-ROCK SAT. State Street Stage 6:00p Chris Hillman was one of the original members of The Byrds. Herb Pedersen began his career playing with Jerry Garcia and David Grisman. John Jorgenson is a pioneer of the American gypsy jazz movement. Seven-time GRAMMY winner Mark Fain, has appeared and recorded with artists including Dolly Parton, John Fogerty, and Joan Osborne.

Chris Jamison

AMERICANA SAT. Machiavelli’s Indoor 4:00p | SUN. Quaker Steak & Lube 1:30p Travels far and wide have shaped Chris Jamison’s music from his songwriting start as a teenager living in London to early performances in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Dubbed the “Paul Simon of Texas” by the Austin Chronicle, the Texas native’s songs have been called “sing-a-long immediate and earworm lasting” (No Depression) and “universal and poetic” (Asheville’s Mountain Xpress).

24 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

The Church Sisters

AMERICANA FRI. Cumberland Square Park 7:15p

The Church Sisters’ mesmerizing music chronicles their childhood with a haunting sound and bluegrass twist. Their roots extend through bluegrass and gospel, performing alongside legendary acts from a young age. The duo is featured on Orthophonic Joy: The 1927 Bristol Sessions Revisited, produced by GRAMMY Award-winner and mentor, Carl Jackson.

Circus No. 9

PROGRESSIVE BLUEGRASS SUN. 6th Street Stage 12:30p | SUN. Borderline Billiards 5:30p Based out of East Tennessee, Circus No.9 is a progressive acoustic group that embraces the influence of bluegrass, jazz, rock, and more.

The group has appeared on stage alongside artists such as David Grisman, Bryan Sutton, Larry Keel, and others.

The Cleverlys

BLUEGRASS, COMEDY SAT. Cumberland Square Park 8:00p The Cleverlys’ one-of-a-kind blend of comedy and music can only be described as a “grass-hip-pop fusion,” with hilarious covers, from Psy’s “Gangnam Style” to Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies,” taking them to some of the hottest stages across the country. The group has the captivating ability to put a bluegrass spin on cover songs from any genre with genius arrangements.

The Commonheart

ROCK SAT. State Street Stage 12:00p | Sat. 7th Street Stage 7:00p With gritty vocals over rock riffs and horns, The Commonheart delivers an emotion-packed, soulful sound that lights up any stage. The new album, Grown, is a remarkable display of each member’s talent, interlacing heavy blues, soul, and gospel influences across trumpet, saxophone, keys, guitar, and vocals.

Cookin' With Grass Sponsored by VALIS, Inc. BLUEGRASS SAT. Borderline Billiards 1:30p | SAT. Piedmont Station 4:30p

Based in East Tennessee, Cookin’ With Grass is a bluegrass band steeped in the traditions of our region. The band performs regularly at Shirley’s Home Cookin,’ a family-style restaurant in Hampton, Tennessee. The band is comprised of Jeff Sharpe, Andy Blevins, Dan Carty, Josh Hamm, Melissa Mathes, Josh Doss, and Chris Mathes.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 | 8:30 PM @ PARAMOUNT

25

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Cordovas

COUNTRY ROCK, JAMBAND FRI. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 9:30p | SAT. Cameo Theatre 5:00p Listed among Rolling Stone’s “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know” last year, Cordovas follows in the tradition of 1970s Southern and country rock greats the Allman Brothers, The Grateful Dead, and The Band. Based in Nashville, the group has a sound based in harmony, song, and musicianship. Cordovas members are Joe Firstman, Lucca Soria, Jon Loyd, Toby Weaver and Graham Spillman.

The Corklickers Sponsored by Rob Nicar OLD TIME FRI. Piedmont Station 7:30p | SAT. Shanghai Stage 6:00p

The Corklickers are an authentic old-time string band hailing from the East Tennessee-Western North Carolina region. They have been playing together since the mid-1970s, preserving the traditional style of the popular string bands of the 1920s and 1930s.

Daddy Duo

AMERICANA SUN. Cumberland Square Park 12:00p | SUN. Borderline Billiards 3:30p Daddy Duo is a rock & roll bromance between Will Kimbrough and Tommy Womack that has been giving aid and comfort to Nashvillians who not only want to rock, but also roll. The band is a juke joint rock & roll band, a Muddy Waters quintet, a jam band for people who like ragtime, and a gospel group.

Their third album, the brilliant Let’s Do This ! is testimony to all of the above.

Dale Watson & His Lonestars

HONKY TONK, COUNTRY SAT. State Street Stage 4:00p | SAT. Paramount 8:30p | SUN. Piedmont Stage 3:00p Dale Watson has flown the flag for classic honky-tonk for over two decades.

Carrying on in the tradition of Cash, Waylon, and Willie with his “Ameripolitan” brand of roots music, differentiating it from Nashville-based pop country.

Watson is a true country music maverick and outlaw—one who is rapidly approaching legendary status.

Dan Deel

COUNTRY FRI. Machiavelli’s Indoor 6:30p Born in Pikeville, Kentucky and raised in Buchanan County, Virginia, singersongwriter Dan Deel got his first guitar at age 15. By 18 he was singing in front of large crowds under the mentorship of late RCA recording artist Marlow Tackett at Marlow’s Country Palace in Pikeville. Deel performs traditional country with a twinge of classic rock as a solo act and with his energetic band.

26 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Daniel Miller & the High Life

ALT-COUNTRY Sponsored by ATMOS Energy SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 5:45p | SUN. Quaker Steak & Lube 3:30p Daniel Miller is a singer-songwriter with a penchant for centering his music on locales that inspire him: “My goal is to take a region that I love and write songs about that place. My focus isn’t on limiting a record to fit into a specific bin on a store shelf; it’s to tell a story. So, while I’ve been labeled an ‘alt-country’ or ‘Americana’ artist, I don’t let that influence or limit whatever project I’m working on at the moment.”

Devon Gilfillian

BLUES, SOUL FRI. Paramount 9:30p | SAT. 6th Street Stage 3:30p Devon Gilfillian grew up outside of Philadelphia absorbing everything from the R&B swagger of Al Green and Ray Charles to the rock & roll heroics of Jimi Hendrix. Now based in Nashville, Gilfillian puts a personalized stamp on those childhood influences, rolling them into original songs that showcase not only his songwriting and singing, but also his talent as an instrumentalist.

DownTown Abby & The Echoes Sponsored by Seaman Corporation

SOUL, R&B, ROCK SAT. Studio Brew 11:00p | SUN. Borderline Billiards 1:30p

DownTown Abby & The Echoes has a passion for ‘60s soul and ‘70s rock, mixed with modern influences, that include the Tedeschi Trucks Band, Grace Potter & The Nocturnals, and other titans of Southern soul and Motown. Offering sultry vocals and a groovy rhythm section, DownTown Abby & The Echoes is a mustsee for all ages and musical preferences.

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver

BLUEGRASS SUN. Country Mural Stage 4:00p

Hailed as a “mandolin virtuoso” with “perfectly silken harmony” by The New York Times, Kingsport, Tennessee native Doyle Lawson was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in 2012. Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver have nearly 40 albums to their credit, multiple GRAMMY, Dove, ICM, IBMA and SPBGMA Award nominations, and are 7-time winners of IBMA’s Vocal Group of the Year.

Duty Free Sponsored by Elliott, Lawson, & Minor BLUEGRASS SUN. Theatre Bristol 12:30p | SUN. Shanghai Stage 2:30p

Duty Free is a popular Tri-Cities bluegrass band that always entertains the crowd. Popular around the region, band members have day jobs but still manage to find time to jam or play venues at least once a week.

Duty Free plays garage bluegrass at its best.

THURSDAY NIGHT

Kickoff Concert WITH CRUZ CONTRERAS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 | 7PM | THE MUSEUM | $25

27

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Ed Snodderly Sponsored by Rob Nicar COUNTRY-FOLK SAT. Studio Brew 3:00p | SUN. Piedmont Stage 1:00p`

Ed Snodderly’s voice is the sonic equivalent of an old denim shirt, creased and worn - and reassuring. While “folk” doesn’t quite capture Snodderly’s essence – he is more singer-songwriter steeped in country and bluegrass – he is nevertheless finely tuned to the eccentricities of traditional music.

Empty Bottle String Band

OLD TIME FRI. Near Moore Stage 5:30p

Sponsored by The Bristol Hotel

The Empty Bottle String Band specializes in playing toe-tapping, highly danceable traditional Appalachian music and is known for upbeat fiddle tunes and feel-good music. Their sound is inventive, while staying close to the old time string band tradition of the 1930s.

ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band

BLUEGRASS SUN. Paramount 12:00p | SUN. Machiavelli’s Indoor 3:00p

The East Tennessee State University Bluegrass Pride Band is comprised of virtuosic students performing in the classic bluegrass style. This acclaimed band has performed internationally and appeared onstage with such artists as Alison Krauss, Del McCoury, Ralph Stanley, and Ricky Skaggs.

ETSU Old Time Pride Band

OLD TIME SAT. Theatre Bristol 2:45p | SAT. Studio Brew 7:00p

The East Tennessee State University Old Time Pride Band performs traditional string band music, a style that pre-dates bluegrass with both African-American and Anglo-American influences.

The Floorboards Sponsored by The Bristol Hotel

AMERICANA, ALT-COUNTRY SAT. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 1:15 p | SUN. Piedmont Station 4:45p

The Floorboards is an American roots ensemble hailing from Roanoke, Virginia.

The band marries rock and country roots with the sights and sounds of southern mountain towns. The group has toured extensively throughout the east coast, sharing stages with Dwight Yoakam, Trampled by Turtles, Darrell Scott, Tim O’Brien, and Los Colognes, among others.

28 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Folk Alt.

FOLK, OLD TIME SAT. Shanghai Stage 12:00p | SUN. Machiavelli’s Indoor 1:00p Folk Alt., featuring Andromeda “Andi” Strong and Halie Lynn, hail from Southwest Virginia where they first began making music together at the Wise Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAMs) program. The girls perform traditional Appalachian music while simultaneously acknowledging the contemporary influences that surround them.

Folk Soul Revival

AMERICANA, ALT-COUNTRY SAT. State Street Stage 8:15p Folk Soul Revival’s radio-ready lyrics and driving melodies have garnered the band much success with high profile gigs opening for the likes of Travis Tritt, Jason Isbell, Eric Church, Justin Townes Earle, Dr. Ralph Stanley, and more.

They are also one of our region’s most well-loved exports with a large following known as “The Congregation.”

Fritz & Co. Sponsored by Holston Medical Group

INDIE ROCK, ALT-COUNTRY FRI. Stateline Bar 7:45p | SAT. Borderline Billiards 11:30p

Fritz & Co. is a four-piece nostalgic rock & roll band fronted by Logan Fritz, one of the Bristol region’s youngest and most promising musicians.

With an eclectic blend of archaic structure and modern liberation, Fritz & Co. captures the essence of American rock with a modern twist.

Gary Reid

BLUEGRASS SAT. Piedmont Station 6:30p | SUN. Theatre Bristol 2:15p Gary Reid performs a one-man show called A Life of Sorrow, the Life and Times of Carter Stanley. The program is a mix of storytelling and music to bring to life the saga of a mountain music treasure. A bluegrass enthusiast and historian for more than 40 years, Reid is regarded as the foremost authority on the music of the Stanley Brothers.

Glen Harlow & North Fork

BLUEGRASS SUN. Near Moore Stage 12:45p

Sponsored by ATMOS Energy

Glen Harlow is a longtime musician, singer, and radio personality from the Bristol, VA-TN region with four decades of experience as a performer. He is also a sought-after studio musician. Harlow’s band, North Fork, consists of respected musicians Kevin Jackson (fiddle), Rick Barker (guitar/vocals), and Mitch Bentley (bass/vocals) and showcases the music that is most dear to his heart.

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29

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Goodnight, Texas

AMERICANA-FOLK SAT. Borderline Billiards 5:30p | SUN. 6th Street Stage 2:30p A Goodnight, Texas show includes red-blooded, foot-stomping rock ’n’ roll, wistful front porch ballads, and haunting tales of doomed romance.

This entertaining and dynamic range has made devotees out of critics and a growing legion of fans. The band has spent the past several years on the road with acts like Shakey Graves and Rusted Root.

Gracie Lane Sponsored by Seaman Corporation AMERICANA SAT. Machiavelli’s Indoor 6:00p

Gracie Lane comes to the Blue Ridge Mountains all the way from the Ozarks, drawing equal influence from each region. Her music can be a bit country, somewhat Americana, with great homage to folk music. Mostly, her songs are about love, heartache, and navigating life’s ups and downs.

The Green Fingers

ALT-FOLK SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 6:15p

The name “The Green Fingers” is a call to musicians worldwide to practice their art every day, to want greatness and to reflect it in their songs, and most of all to have passion and love toward the music created. Those who listen can expect Americana and haunting blues with an underlying nod to the country greats of the 1960s and 1970s.

Guy Marshall

ALT-COUNTRY FRI. O’Mainnin’s Pub 7:00p | SAT. Piedmont Stage 3:30p Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, the name Guy Marshall is an ode to band member Adam McNulty’s grandfather, Guy Marshall Shirley, a steadying and influential figure in his life and about whom several songs have been penned.

The band’s sound is a refreshing departure from the usual Americana fare with sing-along lyrics and infectious country-meets-alternative melodies.

Hello October Sponsored by ATMOS Energy FOLK-ROCK SAT. Borderline Billiards 3:30p

Hello October is a rock band that calls Southwest Virginia home. While the band’s songs are not country, bluegrass, or traditional folk in style, their lyrics tell stories with an authentic sound that is also born of the mountain bloodline. The band’s acoustic stylings combine with electric undertones to produce a sound all their own.

30 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Hello Stranger ft. DaleSponsored Jett by The Bristol Hotel

OLD-TIME, FOLK SUN. Near Moore Stage 2:45p

Hello Stranger includes Dale Jett, his wife Teresa, and long-time friend Oscar Harris.

Singer and musician, Jett is a third generation member of the legendary Carter Family. His dedication to the preservation of traditional music includes his eclectic work. His performances and recordings encompass a unique combination of traditional songs and others that extend the boundaries of conventional country.

High Fidelity

BLUEGRASS SUN. Country Mural Stage 1:00p | SUN. Quaker Steak & Lube 5:30p Remember the power and soul of the great bluegrass records from the ‘50s and ‘60s? That music won the hearts of people worldwide—and that music is what High Fidelity is all about. The group consists of five outstanding musicians/vocalists steeped in that traditional sound pioneered by the Stanley Brothers, the Louvin Brothers, Jim & Jesse, and other artists from the same era.

The Honey Badgers Sponsored by Marsh Propane BLUEGRASS FRI. Stateline Bar 11:45p | SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 11:00p

Comprised of a rotating group of notable Tri-Cities-based musicians, this band is crazy about traditional bluegrass – but throw in a little newgrass for good measure. It’s music that encourages audiences to stomp their feet, clap their hands, and cut a rug!

If Birds Could Fly

COUNTRY, AMERICANA FRI. Borderline Billiards 11:30p | SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 4:30p From Southwest Virginia, If Birds Could Fly is not a product of the overproduced contemporary country music scene. The band represents the kind of soul-driven, authentic country music that drives a genre. Lead vocalist Brittany Carter is in a class all her own, reminiscent of country greats Loretta Lynn and Martina McBride.

Indian Run Stringband Sponsored by Rob Nicar

OLD TIME SAT. Theatre Bristol 4:30p | SUN. Piedmont Station 3:00p

Indian Run Stringband is a four-piece band from Blacksburg, Virginia who plays old-time in new ways. They sing and swing, fiddle and flatfoot, harmonize and howl. From dance tunes to the blues, the Indian Run Stringband plays with love and abandon. They make old-time music fresh and new.

Available at the corner of Moore & State

31

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Indighost

ALT-ROCK FRI. O’Mainnin’s Pub 5:00p | SAT. Bloom Cafe 9:30p Indighost is a psychedelic rock band from the Appalachian Highlands, known for stunning live visuals, dirty guitar tones, catchy melodies, and vocally driven concert experiences. Desert Psychlist called the band’s latest release Hierophant “heady psych and soulful hard rock crammed into eleven tracks of totally essential and diverse music.”

Jackdaw's 7 Sponsored by Citizens Bank ALT-COUNTRY SAT. Stateline Bar 4:30p

Whether telling the haunting stories of a past generation or speaking of late night, whiskey-tinged knife fights, Jackdaw’s 7 has a vintage swagger that’s rare to find.

They present Appalachian alternative music with harmonious vocals, traditional bluegrass instruments paired with classic country interpretation, mournful songs to make Hank smile and tender love songs to make Buddy Holly cry.

Jake Quillin Band Sponsored by Citizens Bank BLUES-ROCK FRI. Stateline Bar 9:45p | SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 12:15p

Jake Quillin’s music takes the mind to a place immortalized by the late greats of blues and rock-and-roll. Scorching, soulful guitar solos that reach stratospheric heights match Quillin’s melodic and moody vocals. The Jake Quillin Band has a sound that is a bluesy, psychedelic take on soul and R&B.

James Meadows Sponsored by Comfort Systems USA COUNTRY SAT. Stateline Bar 6:30p

Abingdon, Virginia-based singer-songwriter James Meadows recently completed his second full-length album project in Nashville titled Keepin’ It Real with producer Gary Sadker of Red Ridge Entertainment on Music Row. His first single release, Like A Radio, made the Music Row charts in the Top 80 in February, and “Somebody Up There Likes Me” was chosen to be in the 12th Annual Independent Music Awards.

Jason "Hoss" Hicks ft. Gina Dalmas

ROCKABILLY FRI. Piedmont Station 9:15p | SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 8:00p | SUN. Stateline Bar 4:30p You will recognize the voice of Jason “Hoss” Hicks from Old Line Skiffle Combo, who has graced the stages of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion on numerous occasions over the years. This year, he’s invited Gina Dalmas of the indie honky tonk band Gina and The Cow Tipping Playboys along for the ride! Give yourself a treat and catch a set, or two!

32 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Jonathan Byrd & the Pickup Cowboys

AMERICANA, FOLK SAT. 6th Street Stage 11:45a | SAT. Near Moore Stage 3:00p

Jonathan Byrd is a preacher’s son, a Gulf War veteran, and an award-winning songwriter from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The Chicago Tribune called Byrd “one of the top 50 songwriters of the past 50 years.” Jonathan Byrd & the Pickup Cowboys put you in mind of musical gunslingers, vaudevillian hucksters, and old-fashioned tent revivalists.

Josiah Leming

Sponsored by ATMOS Energy ALT-FOLK, INDIE-ROCK SAT. Paramount 4:15p | SAT. Theatre Bristol 10:15p Josiah Leming is from East Tennessee. His prowess for translating his personal thoughts and emotions has caught the attention of fans across the globe. The debut Josiah and the Bonnevilles album, On Trial, has racked up more that 5.5 million streams on Spotify alone since its March 2018 release.

Joy Blair

COUNTRY SAT. Stateline Bar 12:45p | SUN. Piedmont Station 1:00p Greeneville, Tennessee native Joy Blair is deeply inspired by early and classic country music, soulful songwriting, American roots music, and the Appalachian Mountain region she calls home. Her honest and uniquely crafted lyrics often weave rural imagery with themes of love, family, loss, and life in emotive and compelling songwriting.

JP Parsons & the American Bandwagon

AMERICANA FRI. Quaker Steak & Lube 6:00p | SAT. 6th Street Stage 1:30p

Hailed as “Bristol’s own troubadour” and a “songwriter’s songwriter,” JP Parsons’ unique blend of folk, bluegrass, and country music, along with his memorable tenor voice, makes his songs immediately familiar.

Pleasing crowds from large festivals to the tiniest bars and listening rooms, this bandwagon is definitely worth hopping on.

Justin Crider & the Usual Suspects

COUNTRY SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 2:15p

Sponsored by Citizens Bank

Abingdon, Virginia’s country powerhouse Justin Crider is a proficient multi-instrumentalist who performs and writes neo-traditional country music. Described as an old soul country crooner who respects the traditions of the music, Crider’s passion and first love of country music is featured on this 2017 album, I’m Your Man.

DON’T FORGET TO STOP BY

The Museum Store for a unique downtown shopping experience.

LISTENERS IN THE BRISTOL AREA CAN FIND US ON 100.1 FM | LISTENRADIOBRISTOL.ORG

33

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Kelsey Rae Sponsored by Citizens Bank

CLASSIC COUNTRY SUN. Cumberland Square Park 1:45p | SUN. Shanghai Stage 4:30p Abingdon, Virginia native Kelsey Rae Copeland calls Nashville home these days, but her love of the mountains, Southwest Virginia, and the musical influences of the Carter family and Dr. Ralph Stanley stay dear and close. Fortune Teller, her first album of original songs, showcases a distinctive voice, lyrics that speak to her influences growing up, and the sounds of Patsy Cline, Connie Smith, Anita Carter and Loretta Lynn.

Kristy Cox Trio

COUNTRY, BLUEGRASS FRI. Country Mural Stage 5:30p | FRI. Studio Brew 8:30p Kristy Cox is the new voice in Australian bluegrass. Adored for her youthful energy-infused acoustic country/bluegrass, her album, Ricochet, debuted on six Billboard charts, including #1 for Bluegrass Album. The first single from the album, the title track ‘Ricochet,’ hit #1 on the US Bluegrass Radio Chart and #1 on the Australian Country Radio Chart.

Larry Campbell & Teresa Williams

AMERICANA, COUNTRY-FOLK SUN. State Street Stage 1:00p | SUN. Paramount 4:00p

Multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter Larry Campbell and singer-guitarist Teresa Williams spent years playing in Levon Helm’s band—and frequently guesting with Phil Lesh, Little Feat, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady. Their second release, Contraband Love, revisits the Americana textures of the duo’s debut, deftly channeling Memphis, Chicago, the Delta, and Appalachia with equal assurance.

Larry Keel Experience

BLUEGRASS, JAMGRASS SAT. Cumberland Square Park 2:45p | SAT. Near Moore Stage 11:00p Larry Keel has been described by music critics and reviewers as the most powerful, innovative, and all-out exhilarating acoustic flatpicking guitarist performing today.

Keel has earned the highest respect and billing among the top acoustic and jam rock musicians: Tony Rice, Chris Thile, Steve Martin, Tim O’Brien, Vassar Clements, Sam Bush, Del McCoury, John Hartford, Bill Monroe, Peter Rowan, and Danny Barnes, to name a few.

The Last Revel

AMERICANA SAT. Bloom Cafe 3:30p | SAT. Near Moore Stage 8:45p | SUN. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 4:00p From the budding music scene of the upper midwest comes the cutting edge, front porch Americana soundscapes of The Last Revel. This powerfully talented trio of multi-instrumentalists from Minneapolis, Minnesota so naturally blend the genres of folk, rockabilly, old-time string band and rock to create a sound that is as equally original as it is timeless.

34 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Lauren Morrow of The Whiskey Gentry AMERICANA, COUNTRY SAT. Piedmont Stage 1:30p | SAT. 7th Street Stage 5:00p | SUN. Paramount 2:00p Lauren Morrow and her husband Jason formed The Whiskey Gentry back in 2009, only recently stepping out on their own. Lauren’s voice, as thoroughly Americana as any of her folk counterparts, rings clear as a bell. There’s some honky tonk in her DNA, a wink at bluegrass, with a hint of garage rock.

Lilly Hiatt

FOLK-ROCK, AMERICANA FRI. Piedmont Stage 5:45p | SAT. Paramount 6:15p Lilly Hiatt has created a sound that exists in roots and rock realms, firing with sass and unbridled attitude. Americana roots with gritty influences by an array of nineties grunge and post-punk, her third album, Trinity Lane, is about hanging on, working hard, and keeping the faith with songwriting that melds the observational with the confessional and never tries to follow any particular genre code.

Lodi

FOLK-ROCK FRI. Machiavelli’s Indoor 10:30p | SAT. Stateline Bar 2:30p Wooed to Bristol by the whistling trains, Lodi has come to return the lonesome call with a smooth, indie-pop vibe and a saxophone shining like a bright bell and hollering to the hollows and alleyways alike.

Loose Leaves

FUNK, ROCK SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 1:00p Johnson City’s Loose Leaves seeks to be honest and transparent with their audience. In performing, they hope to embody freedom from worry and judgment. They have crafted a style of funky, folksy, rock ‘n’ roll the band likes to call “eclectic alternative.”

Low Cut Connie

ROCK FRI. Cumberland Square Park 9:00p | SAT. 7th Street Stage 9:00p Philadelphia’s Low Cut Connie was recently called “the essence of what rock ‘n’ roll should be” by Greg Kot (Sound Opinions, NPR) and the New York Times said “their live show is a phenomenon.” They have been a rolling DIY caravan with an explosive live act bubbling under the surface of the music industry for 5 years, building an obsessive fan base from all walks of life.

NEW SPECIAL EXHIBIT AT THE BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM 35

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

The Maggie Valley Band

AMERICANA FRI. Studio Brew 10:30p

After years of busking, The Maggie Valley Band began touring all over the country, sharing the stage with such diverse acts as The Indigo Girls, Lonesome River Band, and The Black Lillies. TMVB has recently been in the studio recording their latest project under the direction of GRAMMYnominated producer, David Mayfield.

The Marcus King Band

SOUTHERN ROCK, BLUES-ROCK SAT. Cumberland Square Park 10:00p

The Marcus King Band touches everything from funky R&B to southern soul and Americana with blasts of swampy brass, a lock-step rhythm section and swirling organ. Ever the multi-tasker, King bounces between several instruments, handling electric and acoustic guitar—as well as pedal and lap steel— while driving each track home with his soulful, incendiary voice.

Mark Brinkman

BLUEGRASS, AMERICANA, GOSPEL SAT. Quaker Steak & Lube 2:45p | SUN. Machiavelli’s Indoor 5:00p Award-winning songwriter and performer Mark “Brink” Brinkman is an accomplished musician and one of the most sought after, respected, and recorded songwriters in Americana and Gospel. Many notable artists have recorded and/or played Brink’s songs including Larry Sparks, Grasstowne, Don Rigsby, Lou Reid & Carolina, JD Crowe & the New South, The Kruger Brothers, and many others.

Marshall Ballew

BLUES, FOLK, ROCK SAT. Machiavelli’s Indoor 2:00p

Marshall Ballew is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Northeast Tennessee. He currently plays solo shows on guitar, Dobro, banjo, fiddle, harmonica, Hawaiian guitar, and tiple. He performs a heady mix of originals, old-time, blues, bluegrass, jug band, rock, and more.

McKay & Leigh

COUNTRY-FOLK SAT. Studio Brew 5:00p | SUN. Bloom Cafe 5:30p Brennen Leigh and Noel McKay craft story songs with equal measures heart and humor. The Austin, Texas based songwriters’ debut collaboration Before the World Was Made spotlights celebrated troubadours in peak form.

36 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Milan Miller Sponsored by Mike & Karen Spear

BLUEGRASS SAT. Theatre Bristol 1:00p | SAT. Piedmont Station 8:45p

As a songwriter, Milan Miller’s songs have been recorded by some of the biggest names in bluegrass, ranging from the traditional sounds of Junior Sisk to the progressive leanings of the Steep Canyon Rangers. “This is good honest-to-Monroe bluegrass music.” ~ Country Standard Time

Mile Twelve

BLUEGRASS SUN. Cameo Theatre 1:00p | SUN. Near Moore Stage 4:45p Mile Twelve is a young band that walks the line between original and traditional bluegrass beautifully. Fast gaining recognition for their outstanding performances in bluegrass and folk circles, this hard-driving band writes captivating songs and daring instrumental pieces. Banjo luminary Tony Trischka says, “Mile Twelve is carrying the bluegrass tradition forward with creativity and integrity.”

Missy Raines & the New Hip

BLUEGRASS, AMERICANA SAT. Country Mural Stage 2:30p | SAT. Near Moore Stage 5:00p A seven-time International Bluegrass Music Association award-winner, Missy Raines is considered to be one of the most respected and trailblazing figures in bluegrass today. The New Hip is her innovative trio—a rich combination of her bluegrass roots and thick Americana, featuring George Jackson (fiddle, banjo) and Ben Garnett (guitar).

Molly Tuttle

AMERICANA FRI. Cameo Theatre 5:45p | FRI. Country Mural Stage 8:30p A virtuoso multi-instrumentalist and award-winning songwriter with a distinctive voice, Molly Tuttle has appeared on A Prairie Home Companion, at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass music festival, and has been featured on the cover of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine. Her lovely voice, impeccable guitar playing, and sensitive song writing make her a star on the rise.

Monster Atlantic Sponsored by Virginia Electric Supply

ROCK FRI. 6th Street Stage 6:00p

Roanoke, Virginia’s Monster Atlantic delivers a high energy rock show full of collaborative original music. The band has opened recent shows for Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Carbon Leaf, and Honey Island Swamp Band.

They have also appeared at FloydFest and Rooster Walk.

Tune in

ONLINE OR ON THE APP LISTENERS IN THE BRISTOL AREA CAN FIND US ON 100.1 FM | LISTENRADIOBRISTOL.ORG

37

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

My New Favorites Sponsored by Holston Medical Group AMERICANA SAT. Bloom Cafe 1:30p

My New Favorites boasts award-winning songwriting and top-notch players to create a diverse and energetic Americana sound. The band’s compelling songs showcase fine harmonies, complemented by a mix of traditional and modern instruments, to create music that is both familiar and brand new.

The National Reserve

ROCK FRI. 7th Street Stage 6:30p | SAT. Cumberland Square Park 4:30p SAT. Stateline Bar 10:30p The National Reserve fuses gutbucket R&B, Laurel Canyon lyricism, New Orleans funk workouts, late night soul, and boozy rock ‘n’ roll to create their own timeless brand of American music. The band has crafted a rich and raucous collection that conjures thoughts of a lost recording unearthed from the golden age of ‘70s rock ‘n’ roll.

The New Familiars

ALTERNATIVE COUNTRY, AMERICANA FRI. Near Moore Stage 10:15p | SAT. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 3:15p SUN. Cumberland Square Park 5:45p The New Familiars is a “no front man” band, often compared to groups like The Band. The group embraces southern Appalachia roots music and experiments with the twisted tonalities of rock. Their shows can turn from a drum-driven arena rock band to a back porch hoedown feel with the switch of an instrument.

The New Respects

POP-ROCK, R&B, SOUL FRI. 7th Street Stage 8:30p | SAT. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 9:15p Featured in Rolling Stone as one of “10 New Artists You Need to Know,” Nashvillebased The New Respects are quickly turning heads and gaining unprecedented traction. The group meshes rock, soul, and pop music with overlays of acoustic tones. The band’s standout single, “Trouble,” garnered over 2 million streams and received sync placements with Fox Sports, ESPN and TNT.

Old 97's

ALT-COUNTRY SUN. State Street Stage 5:00p The Old 97’s emerged from Dallas 20 years ago at the forefront of a musical movement blending rootsy, country-influenced songwriting with punk rock energy and delivery. Garnering praise from NPR, Billboard, SPIN, and Rolling Stone, who hailed the band as “four Texans raised on the Beatles and Johnny Cash in equal measures, whose shiny melodies...do their forefathers proud.”

38 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Old Crow Medicine Show

AMERICANA, FOLK SAT. State Street Stage 10:30p

It’s been 19 years since Old Crow Medicine Show caught the attention of folk icon Doc Watson while playing on the street in Boone, North Carolina.

Watson invited the band to perform at Merlefest. Since then, the band has gone Platinum for their classic single, “Wagon Wheel,” been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, and won two GRAMMYs.

The Pigeon Kings

AMERICANA, CELTIC FUSION FRI. 6th Street Stage 10:00p | SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 9:15p SUN. 7th Street Stage 2:00p Musicians Josef Crosby (co-founder of Scythian) and Victor Gagnon (long-time fiddler of Seven Nations) have joined forces to create Pigeon Kings. The band draws from Celtic and rock influences, but they’re not Celtic rock. With elements of Americana and bluegrass, they have a sound and persona all their own.

Possum Creek Playboys

BLUEGRASS, OLD TIME SAT. Near Moore Stage 12:00p

Sponsored by: Rob Nicar

The Possum Creek Playboys is a reunion of musicians from a number of regional bands, including The Swamp Cats, The Corklickers, Sugar Hill String Band, The Rebel Yellers, The Rough Riders, and many more. Their performances are an old time fun jam and a stompin’ good time is always had by all.

The Pythia

ROCK FRI. O’Mainnin’s Pub 9:00p The Pythia is a 5-piece rock outfit from Southern Appalachia with heavy blues and desert-rock influences. Since 2016, the band has offered driven and heavy live shows, intensely personal songwriting, and a deep love of all things music.

The Pythia works hard to bring a unique, hard-hitting sound to the music scene and are looking to make their mark on the world in their own way.

Railroad Earth

AMERICANA, ROCK, IMPROVISATIONAL FRI. State Street Stage 10:30p Railroad Earth has amassed a huge and loyal fanbase who turn up to support them in every corner of the country. As violin/vocalist Tim Carbone points out, “We use unique acoustic instrumentation, but we’re definitely not a bluegrass or country band...We’re essentially playing rock on acoustic instruments...We’re a country and eastern band!”

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Revel in Dimes

BLUES-ROCK FRI. Cumberland Square Park 5:30p | SAT. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 7:15p Revel in Dimes’ sound is a mix of a little Mississippi blues crossed with a little Chicago blues, and their melody and deep rhythms epitomize the kind of live music that concerts were made for.

Rex Montgomery & Mike Jessee

AMERICANA, FOLK FRI. Theatre Bristol 6:30p

As the quintessential acoustic guitar duo, Rex Montgomery and Mike Jessee deliver tight rhythms and crafty arrangements of songs reminiscent of the ‘70s. Rex is known for his vocal finesse, and Mike adds his own complementary touch as side-kick. These 30-year veterans of the local music scene have their own acoustic, folksy sound with an Americana twist.

Rhythm & The Roosevelts

INDIE-ROCK FRI. Stateline Bar 5:45p

Sponsored by Pratt-Triad Packaging

Rhythm & The Roosevelts first began writing music together in the fall of 2016.

Early inspirations were artistis that combined soul and modern influences. The band fuses the high energy of rock’n’roll with catchy and memorable melodies to create a unique and fun live show.

Ron Short & The Possum Playboys

AMERICANA FRI. Borderline Billiards 7:30p

The Possum Playboys are a hard-working band that prides themselves on the ability to weave seamlessly in and out of musical genres while staying firmly rooted in the earthy tones of traditional Appalachian music. Though the musical traditions may be familiar, the songs and interpretations are fresh and new.

The Royal Hounds Sponsored by Pratt-Triad Packaging

ROCKABILLY FRI. O’Mainnin’s Pub 11:00p | SAT. Borderline Billiards 9:30p SUN. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 2:00p

Nashville headliners The Royal Hounds are a high-energy roots rock n’ roll trio.

Known for their on-stage antics and humorous approach to music, The Royal Hounds successfully marry quality musicianship with stellar showmanship.

The band has shared the stage with Johnny Cash’s band and more!

40 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Ruen Brothers

ROCK FRI. Piedmont Stage 7:45p | SAT. Cameo Theatre 7:00p Multi-instrumentalist and songwriter siblings Henry and Rupert Stansall, known by their amalgam-created moniker Ruen Brothers, are making a mark with a throwback rock and roll sound that intersects the early days of the genre with a dynamic present day act. The two have gone from sleepy English steel town obscurity to craft-smiths ready to make a global impact.

Sally & George

AMERICANA SUN. Machiavelli’s Outdoor 12:00p Sally (Della Mae’s Shelby Means) and George (Joel Timmons of Sol Driven Train) first met at Bristol Rhythm & Roots in 2012. In August of 2017 they were married. Their first album, Tip My Heart, puts their engaging, eclectic style front and center.

From rollicking rockers, to gauzy reflections on love and faith, to country indebted duets, this duo does it tastefully, earnestly, and occasionally with a touch of humor.

The Sammy Guns Band

HONKY TONK FRI. Quaker Steak & Lube 10:00p

Sponsored by Marsh Propane

The Sammy Guns Band has emerged from Johnson City, Tennessee with the familiarity of your favorite standards. The quartet tips their hat to definitive country artists and storytellers with the likes of Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Hank Williams Sr. serving as inspiration.

Sarah Shook & The Disarmers

ALT-COUNTRY, OUTLAW COUNTRY SAT. 6th Street Stage 9:30p | SUN. 7th Street Stage 12:00p SUN. Cameo Theatre 5:00p

Based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Sarah Shook & The Disarmers is a country band with a bite and no apologies. Rolling Stone calls Shook “…a sneering fusion of punk-rock autonomy and say-it-like-it-is country from the classic era, paired with a timeless vocal warble and tons of attitude.”

Saw Black

ALT-COUNTRY FRI. Borderline Billiards 9:30p | SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 7:30p SUN. Studio Brew 4:30p Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Saw Black developed a love for songwriting when his grandfather (a Jazz pianist) gifted him his first electric guitar at the age of 11. Fans will recognize the influences of My Morning Jacket, Jason Molina, and Neil Young in Saw Black’s sound.

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Scott Miller & The Commonwealth

AMERICANA , ALT-COUNTRY FRI. Paramount 7:45p | FRI. 7th Street Stage 10:30p

Scott Miller came to the forefront of the Knoxville music scene in the 1990’s with “the thinking man’s party band”—The V-Roys. Since then Miller has recorded 10 studio albums with The Commonwealth, including his latest project, Ladies Auxiliary, in which his signature autobiographical style of storytelling and humor runs rampant.

Scotty Melton

AMERICANA, FOLK SAT. Shanghai Stage 8:00p | SUN. Stateline Bar 2:30p Johnson City-based Scotty Melton is a singer-songwriter who has penned songs for artists as diverse as Reagan Boggs to Nashville garage rockers Les Honky More Tonkies. He has toured extensively, opening for Ray Wylie Hubbard, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Malcolm Holcombe, Steve Young, and others. Melton was cited by Justin Townes Earle as “the guy who taught me to write songs.”

Sean McConnell Sponsored by Mike & Karen Spear COUNTRY FRI. Paramount 6:00p

Since releasing his first album at 15, Sean McConnell has toured relentlessly, playing everywhere from Harvard Square coffeehouses to Texas hole in the walls. In today’s louder-is-mightier world, it takes guts to be quiet. But when the right artist summons the courage, strips down, and finds the right songs, one voice and one guitar can make an all-consuming roar.

The Seldom Scene

PROGRESSIVE BLUEGRASS FRI. Country Mural Stage 10:00p The Seldom Scene has been instrumental in starting the progressive bluegrass movement as their shows include bluegrass versions of country music, rock, and even pop. How has The Scene remained popular for more than four decades? It’s the band’s talented musicians, signature sound, solid repertoire, and their sheer sense of fun.

Sierra Hull

AMERICANA SAT. Paramount 2:30p | SAT. Country Mural Stage 5:30p Sierra Hull has been recognized from age 11 as a virtuoso mandolin player, astonishing audiences and fellow-musicians alike. Now a seasoned touring musician in her mid-20s, Hull has delivered her most inspired, accomplished, and mature recorded work to date, Weighted Mind. The album is a landmark achievement in the world of folk-pop, bluegrass, and acoustic music overall.

42 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Sigean

IRISH, CELTIC SUN. Bloom Cafe 3:45p Sigean (pronounced SHEE-gun) was formed in 1997 in Bristol, Tennessee, and performs a mix of traditional Irish music. The band performs a stimulating mix of traditional ballads, lively reels and jigs, and more modern songs.

Soulfinger

R&B, SOUL, FUNK SUN. 7th Street Stage 4:00p Named for Otis Reddings’ second band and the Bar-Kays song, Soulfinger remains true to the soul sounds of Memphis, Tennessee. With a three-piece horn section and a solid, heavy funk rhythm section, Soulfinger revives the old yet introduces a new generation to one of Tennessee’s original roots music genres.

Southern Cities Sponsored by Mike & Karen Spear FOLK-ROCK SAT. O’Mainnin’s Pub 4:00p | SUN. Studio Brew 2:30p

Based out of Knoxville, Tennessee, Southern Cities is the songwriting collaboration of Matt Montgomery and Luke Brogden. The songs reflect the group’s influences—roots, rock, jazz and psychedelia—and chronicles their coming of age experiences across the cities of the modern South.

The SteelDrivers

AMERICANA, BLUEGRASS SAT. Piedmont Stage 9:45p The SteelDrivers’ album, The Muscle Shoals Recordings, won the GRAMMY for Best Bluegrass Album. Nashville music writer Peter Cooper wrote, “This is a band like no other, by inclination but not by calculation. Those of us who have listened all know where their souls are bound. Bound to triumph. Bound to rise.

Bound to matter. Bound to resound. Bound to impact.”

Taj Mahal Trio

BLUES FRI. Piedmont Stage 9:30p

Taj Mahal is celebrating decades of recording and touring that nearly singlehandedly reshaped the scope of the blues via the infusion of exotic sounds from the Caribbean, Africa and the South Pacific. The two-time GRAMMY winning singer, songwriter, film composer, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist was feted with the Lifetime Achievement for Performance Award at the 13th Annual Americana Honors and Awards.

Radio Bristol Sessions Join us for live Radio Bristol Sessions and see some of your favorite Bristol Rhythm artists. See Radio Bristol social media for details.

LIVE PROGRAMMING SPOTLIGHTING TODAY’S ROOTS, COUNTRY AND AMERICANA MUSICIANS

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Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Tim Easton Sponsored by Virginia Electric Supply

FOLK-ROCK SAT. Studio Brew 1:00p | SAT. Theatre Bristol 6:15p

After his performance at Bristol Rhythm ’17, Tim Easton went into the studio at The Earnest Tube here in Bristol and recorded his entire album, Paco & The Melodic Polaroids, direct to lacquer, using the same technology The Carter Family or Jimmie Rodgers would have done back in the day. Praised by Rolling Stone as “having a novelist’s sense of humanity,” Easton’s storytelling is personal and confessional.

Todd Day Wait's Pigpen

COUNTRY-SWING, FOLK SAT. Stateline Bar 8:30p | SUN. O’Mainnin’s Pub 4:00p On a three-year road trip to many parts of the country, Todd Day Wait played music with an ever-changing lineup of collaborators. Shifting genres from region to region, he arrived at his own musical aesthetic that blends blues, folk, country, early R&B, and soul. Today, he can be found playing on the streets of the French Quarter and in venues throughout New Orleans.

Tony Williamson

BLUEGRASS FRI. Near Moore Stage 7:00p | SAT. Cameo Theatre 1:00p | SUN. Theatre Bristol 4:00p 2018 North Carolina Heritage Award recipient Tony Williamson is a visionary musician, composer, teacher, and mentor. He is a sought-after session musician and sideman for artists like Sam Bush, David Grisman, Jerry Douglas, and Ricky Skaggs. He has collaborated with Sierra Hull, Chris Thile, and others. Williamson writes and plays innovative bluegrass while maintaining traditional roots.

Trifecta of Jam

ROCK FRI. Borderline Billiards 5:30p

Trifecta of Jam is comprised of Bristolians Dave Steele (guitar/vocals), Elliot Smith (drums), and Michigan native Roger Pieronski (bass) performing all original rock songs and mountain jams with a sound that consists of groovy guitar rhythms, intricate drumming and rock-solid bass lines—just three guys playing for the love of music.

Trisha Gene Brady

AMERICANA FRI. Theatre Bristol 10:00p | SAT. Bloom Cafe 7:30p Knoxville, Tennessee native Trisha Gene Brady’s seven-year run as vocalist and instrumentalist with The Black Lillies has seen her take the stage of the Grand Old Opry more than 30 times and perform for crowds at Bonnaroo, SXSW, and Pickathon. With vocals as sweet as Southern ice tea, and impressive chops as a multi-instrumentalist, Brady is embarking on new adventures as one sweetheart of a solo act.

44 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion | Artist Lineup

Twin Peaks

ROCK, POWER-POP FRI. Cumberland Square Park 10:45p Chicago-based Twin Peaks’ derivative sound is nuanced in the funk of The Rolling Stones, the reverb of Velvet Underground, and the swagger of The Replacements. Hailed “Best New Band” by Britain’s NME, the band has conquered festivals across the planet from Pitchfork to Roskilde.

Virginia Ground

AMERICANA SAT. Cumberland Square Park 1:00p | SAT. Studio Brew 9:00p Virginia Ground categorizes their sound in one word: Appalachiaphonic.

It’s the melodic marriage rooted in soul, blues, bluegrass, reggae, country, Dixieland jazz, rock, Americana, swing, funk, and more.

The War & Treaty

ROOTS, BLUES SAT. State Street Stage 2:00p | SAT. 6th Street Stage 5:30p The War & Treaty’s blend of roots music, bluegrass, folk, gospel, and soul yields a sound that’s both stirring and sensual, driven by joy, determination, and an unceasing upward gaze. It’s a style that touches on a variety of genres but never finds itself confined to one.

The Waybacks

AMERICANA FRI. State Street Stage 8:30p | SAT. Piedmont Stage 7:30p While they draw freely from the old school and the old world, The Waybacks are no throwback. Touched by Memphis soul, honky-tonk, Parisian swing, classical music, vintage blue pop and much more, the band has been erroneously pigeonholed as bluegrass and celebrated as purveyors of “acoustic mayhem.”

The Wooks

BLUEGRASS SAT. Near Moore Stage 7:00p | SUN. 6th Street Stage 4:30p With threads of singer-songwriter, rock, and jam band music woven throughout, The Wooks won the prestigious RockyGrass Band Competition in 2016. In 2017 the band placed in the finals for the Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Competition and were nominated for an IBMA Momentum Award. Their first record, Little Circles, debuted at #6 on the Billboard Bluegrass Chart.

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45

Festival Artists

All artists and artist schedules are subject to change without notice. Please download the festival app for schedule updates.

Young Mister Sponsored by Virginia Electric Supply FOLK-ROCK, POP FRI. Shanghai Stage 5:00p | SAT. Piedmont Station 2:30p SUN. Borderline Billiards 12:00p

Young Mister is songwriter Steven Fiore, sometimes accompanied by a band of talented musicians from across the southeast U.S. His music has a radioready, soft-rock vibe and features lyrics young romantics wish had been written just for them.

Zephaniah OHora

CLASSIC COUNTRY & WESTERN SAT. Piedmont Stage 5:30p | SAT. Cameo Theatre 9:00p On the heels of his independently released and critically acclaimed debut, This Highway, Zephaniah OHora is turning a lot of heads. American Songwriter wrote, “Channeling the country icons of decades past is something of a trend these days, but only a handful of artists are able to pull off such homage without devolving into mimicry. Brooklyn’s OHora is one of those artists.”

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