Southern Branch Bluegrass

Prescription Bluegrass - Welcome Brian McNeal

2012-01-02T07:03:00.000-08:00

A brand new show/program just in for 2012. "Prescription Bluegrass" is a very welcome addition to the "Southern Branch Bluegrass" family with a flavor that is a bit different from all the other programs streamed each week. Brian McNeal seems to maintain a very high fever and his only cure appears to be massive doses of Bluegrass on a daily basis. Those afflicted who don't get enough bluegrass in their regular musical diet are encouraged to attend our specialized weekly therapy sessions.

Treatment sessions from Prescription Bluegrass are delivered Free-of-Charge via Frequency, Amplitude or Broadband Modulation every week courtesy of a few hand-picked sponsors and your local radio station.

Treatment sessions are jam-packed with practicing specialists in all the various strains of Bluegrass Fever, including the traditional, old-fashioned, down-from-the-mountain strains, new-grass, border-grass, west-grass, home-grown and even the newer European strains.

Individual treatment sessions, family plans and group therapy are all available weekly.

2011 "Southern Branch Bluegrass" Artists & CD Recognition Awards

2011-12-23T07:27:00.000-08:00

Bluegrass-Gospel Group of The Year-The Cockman Family

Bluegrass-Gospel CD of The Year-Mountain Faith-Save Me

Bluegrass Group and CD of The Year-Balsam Range-Trains I've Missed
Congratulations to all and looking forward to a wonderful 2012.

Emer Fox-Singer & Songwriter-Dublin Ireland

2011-12-06T18:30:00.000-08:00

A singer and songwriter I've become acquainted with from a mutual love of music and folklore. Emer is from Dublin, Ireland and I find it so very interesting that someone with such genuine talent is not getting much more airplay on radio. Listen to the incredible voice and wonderful arrangements on the tunes that have crossed the large waters for our listening enjoyment all this week on SBBGR. I'm so very proud and feel very blessed that Emer has given me the opportunity to bring to you eleven songs that touch the heart and arouse the emotions such as "Bury Me Down" which she wrote after reading the book "Widow of the South". She said in an email that - The book gave me an insight into war in America that I had never known about before.
A wide variety of styles, creative arrangements and very well intense emotional lyrics provide us with a mix of tunes certainly worth taking the time to listen to as Southern Branch Bluegrass presents - Emer Fox as "Spotlight Artist of the Week"

Russell Johnson - Anytime Anyplace But Only You

2011-11-28T02:49:00.000-08:00

North Carolina singer, songwriter and mandolinist Russell Johnson has a brand new project just out with many influences including Dean Martin, Adam Levine, Bono and B.B. King to name a few. Regardless of the compilation of musical influences this is one very well developed selection of tunes.The vocal range is exhibited throughout the project as well as the instrumental perfection delivered by Jon Stickley on Guitar, John Wade on Bass and Rick Lafleur on 5 string. In addition to the core band of pickers Nicky Sanders plays fiddle, Rick Keen on Resonator Guitar and of course Russell on Mandolin. Guest artists include Steve Fraleigh on fiddle, Julie Elkins on banjo and Emily Kirsch and Kandis Johnson on vocals. The Grass Cat regulars offered up additional strings as well. Russell wrote or co-wrote half of the songs on this project and is also a multi-talented artist with dividing his time producing, serving as a recording and sound engineer, record label and studio owner. Just listening to how well this collection of songs were arranged and performed and mixed, there's no doubt there is ample professionalism involved in every aspect of "Anytime Anyplace But Only You" by Russell Johnson.

Mark Twain - In Words and Music

2011-11-13T06:50:00.000-08:00

The album, Mark Twain: Words & Music, is a double-CD telling Mark Twain's life in spoken word and song. It is a benefit for the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Hannibal, Missouri, a non-profit organization that will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2012. This CD project was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Twain's death in 2010. It was produced by Grammy award-winning producer Carl Jackson and released on September 21, 2011.

The CD contains 27 tracks - 14 spoken word (with musical background) and 13 songs. The CD sequentially tells the life story of Mark Twain, who was born in 1835 under Halley's Comet and died in 1910 - also under Halley's Comet. The CD is the brainchild of Museum director Cindy Lovell who wrote the narrative and is co-executive producer with Carl Jackson. She and Jackson were childhood friends who had not seen each other in 30+ years until she contacted him to see if he would produce this project.

Carl Jackson is a household name to Nashville musicians and had no trouble matching the perfect voices to each song. Everyone was eager to come on board. Clint Eastwood plays the role of Twain, Jimmy Buffett lends his voice as Huck, Garrison Keillor is the narrator, and Angela Lovell gives voice to Susy Clemens. Singers include Emmylou Harris, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Rhonda Vincent, Bradley Walker, Carl Jackson, The Church Sisters, Sheryl Crow, Brad Paisley, Marty Raybon, Val Storey, Vince Gill, Joe Diffie, and Ricky Skaggs.

Several of the songs are brand new and were written especially for the project. Only one song is from Twain's era (Beautiful Dreamer, sung a cappella by Sheryl Crow). The songs were selected to compliment each story segment, which chronicles Twain's life as a boy in Missouri to his life as a riverboat pilot, journalist, family man, author, world traveler, and social commentator.

The double CD comes with a 40-page booklet of liner notes that includes photos, song lyrics, and narration. It is carried on Mailboat Records.

Of special note: Rob Ickes, who plays dobro on the album, was named Best Dobro Player at IBMA in Sept. 2011. Adam Steffey, who plays mandolin on the project, was named Best Mandolin Player at IBMA in Sept. 2011. Some of the harmony voices that can be heard include Joey Martin (of Joey + Rory), Cia Cherryholmes, and Sonya Isaacs.

The album has been entered into several Grammy categories.

America's Bluegrass Band - Spotlight Artists of the Week

2011-11-07T15:04:00.000-08:00

Don Rigsby, Ernie Thacker, Melvin Goins and others joined together to release a beautiful project in 2005 called "America's Favorite Hymns". I was first exposed to these tunes from my good pals Mark & Gene that do the Believers Bluegrass Show and I was so impressed I had to have the project to play for the listeners of Southern Branch Bluegrass at will. One way I expressed the creative effort that these old tunes were delivered was, yea; we've heard all kinds of others folks playing and recording these songs but when you piece together expert Bluegrass musicians and singers such as this it's a whole new ball game. Take a good listen this week when you can and you decide if this is a collector project such as I. The tune list as follows:

1) Shoutin' On The Hills                                    8) He Showed Me The Way
2) Me and Jesus                                                  9) Vision Of Mother
3) Precious Memories                                       10) Mother I'm Sorry
4) Rank Strangers                                              11) Cabin On The Hill
5) Little White Church                                      12) Sinner In Sin Too Long
6) I'm Workin' On A Building                          13) Who Will Sing For Me?
7) Zion's Hill                                                     14) Cryin' Holy
8) He Showed Me The Way                              15) Beulah Land

The Cockman Family-Dedicated "Spotlight Artists of the Week"

2011-10-29T07:50:00.000-07:00

"It Was All About Love" is still an amazing recording project from the group "The Cockman Family". About a week ago an affiliate program associated with "Southern Branch Bluegrass" was being screened by me before airplay and the show featured a new release from this same group and I thought maybe the host had just discovered "It Was All About Love". What a surprise to me it was a brand new project from "The Cockman Family" called Dedicated. After hearing a couple tunes I sent an e-mail requesting a copy for airplay from this group and around 5 days later I'm happy to announce it's being featured as the "Spotlight Artists of the Week" for "Southern Branch Bluegrass".
Thirteen beautiful tunes filled with large quantities of strings, vocals and harmonies that fill the heart with joy and heavenly blessings that only a Christ centered effort can bring.
With all that seems to fill our lives with day-to-day struggles and huge hurdles to cross this is one impressive project that has certainly taken faithful prayers and true dedication to our Savior to create such a masterpiece as this.

Many thanks and appreciation to John Sr., Caroline, John Jr., Billy, David, Ben and all that had a hand in bringing us such a blessed host of songs such as this. Take time this week to listen to this entire CD as it will fill your soul and surely give you strength to continue your daily walk as I plan on hearing all the tunes numerous times in the next few days and will most likely become a favorite of many as I present you with The Cockman Families latest release, "Dedicated".

Close Kin - Spotlight Artists of the Week

2011-10-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

Close Kin is a brand new release that is a colaboration of old time music and bluegrass that was produced by Johnny Williams and has the Mountains Road Recordings label. Musicians include the likes of:
Adam & Tina Steffey (The Boxcars & The Grayson Highlands String Band)
Johnny & Jeanette Williams (The Jeanette Williams Band)
Scott & Mark Freeman (Pathway, Skeeter & The Skidmarks)
Mickey Galyean, Greg Jones, Jay Adams, Brad Hiatt & Jordon Blevins (Rich In Tradition)
Bud, Zeb, Samantha & Laine Snyder (The Snyder Family Band)
Dale Morris & Jerry Correll (Wolfe Bros String Band)
Edwin Lacy (Skeeter and the Skidmarks)
Eddie Bond (The New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters)
Jim Lloyd & Trevor McKenzie (Jim Lloyd and the Skyliners)
Brian Grimm (The Konnarock Kritters)
Trish Kilby Fore (Fox Creek Ramblers)
Tiffany Hurt (Wheeler)
Tim White, Dave Vaught &“Fat Albert” Blackburn (The VW Boys)
Wesley Easter (Eastwood Studio)
Rebecca Jones (Travis Frye & Blue Mountain)
The project consists of 16 very enjoyable tracts and is very worthy of listening to many times over. These are some photos of just some of the folks involved in this wonderful project. Also, there is a link to a great video that gives some great insight to the works involved in putting this music together.

Thanks to all involved from the vision to the performers and all the folks behind the scenes.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s9t5ZEdcTA

The Seminole String Band - The Preacher's Warning CD

2011-10-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

The Seminole String Band is a family Bluegrass-Gospel band that is a singing and picking ministry out of Seminole, Alabama. The family consists of five, dad Mick handles the duties of uprite bass, mom Chris picks the mandolin, and the girls, Shelby, Beckie and Bonnie rap up the string responsibilities with guitar, fiddle and one is still deciding on her instrument. I loved this groups sound from the first time I heard them and am proud to bring this family band to you as "Spotlight Artists of the Week" on Southern Branch Bluegrass.

The Principles - Green Pastures -Spotlight Artists of the Week

2011-10-03T17:23:00.000-07:00

I've experienced the music from these artists for some time now. They have a unique flavor that is heart touching, pure and spirit filled. Enjoy with me if you will the "Spotlight Artists of the Week" on Southern Branch Bluegrass - The Principles from Unicoi, Tennessee.

Carolina Road - Back To My Roots

2011-09-26T15:21:00.000-07:00

Just in to the station today is the brand new Carolina Road project, "Back To My Roots". A super clean, crisp and very creative set of tunes that paints a great picture of the way true Bluegrass should sound. A tremendous background of performing for some time is Lorraine Jordan on mandolin, lead and tenor vocals, Ben Greene on banjo and bass vocals, Josh Goforth on fiddle, baritone vocals and road manager, Tommy Long on guitar and lead vocals, and Eddie Biggerstaff on bass and high lead vocals. One loaded group of talent and superb creativity makes me very proud to announce Carolina Road as the SPOTLIGHT ARTISTS OF THE WEEK on Southern Branch Bluegrass Radio.

Wayne Taylor and Appaloosa-It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Day

2011-09-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

A brand new CD from Wayne Taylor And Appaloosa entitled "It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Day" is filled with vibrant tunes from a seasoned performer with a variety of music to light the soul. I remember the first time I heard Wayne sing The Old Rugged Cross unlike anyone I'd ever heard do it in the manner that he did. It was on The Bluegrass Gospel Hour with John Sentell and I've maintained the groups tunes in the station library for play rotation ever since. Tune in this week for Wayne Taylor And Appaloosa.
If ya get a chance, google some history on Wayne's musical career and see what a wonderful gift in music this man has to offer. He has many years of experience and a career many would be proud to share with others.

Shenandoah Drive-Old Dirt Road

2011-09-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

Old Dirt Road from Shenandoah Drive is a new CD of hard driving bluegrass with a beautiful blend of harmonies and strings. Old Dirt Road features the music of Danny Seabolt, Chris King, Dave Kirk and Gary Creed.All four sing with Danny shouldering most of the lead vocals. All twelve tracks are finely tuned and the craftsmanship from this project is from well established veteran pickers and singers.

I'm very proud to bring you this week's "Artists of the Week" SHENANDOAH DRIVE~

http://shenandoahdrive.com/

John Bowman-Family Chain

2011-09-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

Brand new from John Bowman, a tribute to Joe Isaacs.

Let The Light Shine Down-Tribute To Bill Monroe's birth continued.

2011-08-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

A second week of music dedicated to the anniversary of the birth of Bill Monroe. This CD is an all Gospel project that includes such great songs by artists such as The Seldom Scene, Lost and Found, Dave Evans, Ralph Stanley and Del McCoury to name a few doing those memorable tunes such as "A Beautiful Life", "When The Saints Go Marching In", "The Old Rugged Cross" and "Mansions Foe Me" to name only a few. A great tribute indeed and I'm proud to bring you as Spotlight Artist of the Week, Bill Monroe's compilation CD "let The Light Shine Down.

100th Anniversary of the birth of Bluegrass/Bill Monroe

2011-08-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

As part of the celebration of the birth of Bill Monroe, two compilation CD's have been organized and features some great names such as IIIrd Thyme Out, Seldom Scene, Don Rigsby and Tony Rice to name a few performing Monroe tunes such as Mule Skinner Blues, Footprints In The Snow, Blue Moon of Kentucky and Big Mon. The CD is called "With Body and Soul: A Bluegrass Tribute To Bill Monroe" with an all Gospel CD to follow titled "Let The Light Shine Down: A Gospel Tribute To Bill Monroe" and look forward to sharing that with the listeners as well. Join us as we celebrate the birth of Bluegrass/Bill Monroe this week as "The Spotlight Artists of the Week".

Paul Williams & The Victory Trio - Satisfied

2011-08-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

This weeks "Spotlight Artists of the Week" is Paul Williams and the Victory Trio's new CD Satisfied. Wonderful Gospel music Bluegrass style with awesome strings and harmonies will make you want more and more. I was blessed a couple years ago to hear these folks in concert and at times the spirit would sweep through the theater and you felt the hair on your neck raise up and you just knew someone would break loose and shout just like in a great Penecostal Church service. Tune in and take a listen as many times as needed to get your fill of this super new project that may be their best to date. Satisfied by Paul Williams and the Victory Trio on Southern Branch Bluegrass.

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Mountain Faith-"Save Me", Spotlight Artists Of The Week.

2011-08-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Sam McMahan, Summer Brooke McMahan, Brayden McMahan, Paul Harrigill and John Morgan make up one of the "Finest" sounds to come along in some time. Mountain Faith has created a wonderful project entitled "Save Me" and it's a fitting reference to the spiritual blessings one will receive when listening to this very heartfelt creation that is on it's way to many accolades over the next few weeks and months as folks get exposed to this exceptional CD. A very nice list of tunes as follow:

1) Morning's Coming 6) The Heritage

2) Peace In The Valley 7) My God Is Real
3) God Is My Refuge 8) Gone Away

4) Welcome Home 9) Love Lifted Me

5) Save Me* {Title Cut} 10) Tomorrow May Never Come

Make plans to take time to tune into the "Spotlight Artists of the Week" segment on Southern Branch Bluegrass and hear a fresh sound with absolutely lovely harmonies and extensive creativity to these songs and fully expect a blessing.

I feel truly honored to bring you the warm and spiritual heartfelt love this awesome project conveys, "Save Me" by Mountain Faith.

The Cumberland River Band - Spotlight Artists of the Week

2011-07-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

The brand new CD "The Life We Live" by the Cumberland River Band carves out a nice trail in today's market for fresh listening to unique vocals and very nicely blended strings to bring an enriched project to the ear. Tune into Southern Branch Bluegrass to hear this group pick and sing a full week for your listening pleasure and appreciate some of the very best new music to come out in quite some time.

The Bankester Family-Spotlight Artists Of The Week

2011-07-17T09:30:00.000-07:00

This brand new recording features Jamie Johnson of the Grascals and certainly showcases the incredible talent from the vocal side of the group. These folks have poured an amazing amount of creative effort in perfecting this recording to a brand new level featuring my favorite "Give Me This Day" that is a singing celebration that makes you wanna praise the Lord in a mighty way

Members: Phil-guitar/vocals; Dorene-guitar/vocals; Melissa-bass/vocals; Kyle-banjo; Lindsey-mandolin/vocals; Emily-fiddle/vocals; Alysha-fiddle/vocals

Tune in this week and enjoy the wonderful sounds this family has produced and feel the spirit that a finely tuned group can convey for pure listening enjoyment.

http://www.bankesters.com/home.cfm

Thomas Porter And Copper River Band

2011-07-10T07:51:00.000-07:00

Just received two brand new projects from Thomas Porter and the creativity and overall talent is getting better and better. The first to mention is the new CD "Trolley Days" providing 13 tunes performed by:
Thomas Porter, Guitar & Vocals

Dick Brown, Banjo & Vocals

Doug Bartlett, Fiddle & Vocals

Bob Denoncourt, Bass & Vocals

Jim Govern, Mandolin

Thomas is not only a great singer and picker but wrote or co-wrote every song on this project. Thanks so very much to these folks for putting in the hours on this incredible project and especially for providing this music for your listening pleasure and mine.

The second project I want to mention is the single that was in the package I received with a song entitled "Simple Box of Pine" written by Thomas with some very special guests such as Dan Tyminski, Ron Block, Molly Cherryholmes and the Jam Pak Blues "N" Grass Neighborhood Band that's a really special tune.

You'll enjoy every song on these two projects and am featuring both on "The Spotlight Artist of The Week" segment on Southern Branch Bluegrass.

THE BLU-DISC

2011-07-04T09:35:00.000-07:00

This weeks featured artists on "The Spotlight Artist of The Week" is the well developed and seasoned group "Nu-Blu".
I'm very privilaged to bring you the newest project from this group entitled "THE BLU-DISC. This project is very impressive and I predict will place them high on the Bluegrass Charts and will be a historical landmark in music for this foursome.
Enjoy and appreciate the wonderful creations from "NU-BLU".

Farewell Drifters

2011-06-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

The Farewell Drifters will be featured this week on the "Bluegrass Underground" broadcast on Southern Branch Bluegrass Radio.

Carmel Sheerin & The Ravens

2011-05-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

Introducing a brand new project "Here With You" I recently received from Carmel Sheerin & The Ravens that I have enjoyed immensely. I've been doing my usual and saying that they're from the UK and I've found from researching for this blog that they're actually out of Ireland. The entire project is very well done with a couple tunes that really stand out to me such as "Streets Of Heaven" and "All About Love". These songs have tremendous lyrics and heart touching creativity injected in each that will nearly bring you to tears.

Every note has been critiqued from the instruments to the vocals with harmonies that have been blended with much enthusiasm and and love for the music itself.

The folks behind this project were introduced into the love of music by their parents Dan & Mary Sheerin who at one time sang professionally.
This group consists of family siblings Carmel, Danny, Des and Tom Sheerin with banjo artist, Jonathan Toman.

This project is the second CD produced by the group and have such accolades as receiving top honors in 2009 at Ireland's Entertainment Awards and additionally received the # 1 European Bluegrass Band 2005 - 2006 as voted by the European Bluegrass Music Association.

Carmel's flair for delivering stirring, original material is backed by immaculate harmony singing and precise, steady musicianship.

Tune into Southern Branch Bluegrass and enjoy the latest CD "Here With You"
as I do or go to Carmel Sheerin's web-page and purchase your copy and enjoy.

John Bowman-Singer/Picker/Husband/Father

2011-04-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

I've been appreciating John's capabilities for some time now. I had one of my most embarassing moments when I approached him at the Ryman a couple years back when I had a brain lapse and called him Ronnie Bowman. Thank goodness he don't get too excited when knot-heads like me bug him for a fan pic when their trying to order a drink at the consessions.

John has played with many very well known groups such as The Isaacs which his wife, Becky is a member.

I favor John's solo recordings such as "Remember Me" and "Take This Road" which feature John's lead vocal tallents. I'm not certain but from seeing many pictures posted on the net it appears John is capable of playing many instruments such as guitar, bass, fiddle and 5 string banjo and probably dobro. I've been hounding John to make a duo project with wife Becky but they may be so busy with all they have on their plates that it may be tuff to fit anything else in these days. Maybe they can eventually put something together and considering the writing and overall tallent of each, the reception from a fan stand-point would be a superb treat for sure.
In the mean time I'll continue spinning their tunes and you and I will be treated to wonderful Bluegrass flavored Gospel music for some time to come.

The Music Ministry of Locust Ridge

2011-03-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

"Backbone" is the name of Locust Ridge latest project and is more of a music ministry rather than simply entertainment.
Leading souls to Christ is their primary goal rather than how many CD's they sell or produce. As this project was being screened by me the very first time, it was obvious these men are incredibly talented both vocally and musically. The heart-felt spirit comes through their music as you get thru the first couple tunes.
Steve Gulley not only produced this project but he played guitar, sang, mixed, laughed, cried and became a great friend to Locust Ridge during the making of this project.
The "Lord" was first and foremost upon making this recording. Listen to each song and as you do, expect a blessing.
Steve Gulley praised this group immensely on the sleeve of this CD and he should know what he's talking about since he's had and continues to have a wonderful career as a recording engineer, song writer and performer and has been for many years.

I'm proud to bring you "Locust Ridge" as this weeks "Spotlight Artists".

Spotlight Artists of the Week-The Swanson Family

2011-03-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

The Swanson Family project "Two in the Morning" will be featured this week as "The Spotlight Artists of the Week". Eric, Tyler, Travis, Lynn and Rick Swanson with Megan Bradley make up the group and this project has a couple special guests, "Missy Raines" & "Dann Sherrill".

The CD was also recorded in one of the best studio's in the Nashville area-Treehouse Studio w/Tim Carter doing the slide controls and co-producing the project. Great job with good tune selection on this CD and the group calls Crystal River, Florida home and their web-site can be viewed at: http://www.swansonfamilybluegrass.com/

Spotlight Artists of The Week-The Cockman Family

2011-03-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

The first song I ever heard from this group was "It Was All About Love" and I had to become familiar with their music.

This group is made up of four brothers, their sister and their dad.

Talk about talent, they have won or been nominated for many awards for their dedication to their music they have been blessed with and you can check out their web-page and read all about it (as they say)

I feel very blessed they have sent me some tunes to share with the world and I want you to to take a listen at the "Spotlight Artist of The Week" segment on Southern Branch Bluegrass to hear for yourself.

http://www.cockmanfamily.com/mainpage.html

The Bankester Family/Spotlight Artists The Week Of March 5-12, 2011

2011-03-05T08:17:00.000-08:00

What a blessing to receive this project from "The Bankester Family'.

"Somewhere In Between" is a tremendous collection of family harmonies

and wonderful picking that is so good I've made them the artists of the week

on http://www.southernbranchbluegrass.com/

You can hear them daily at 3 PM, 11 PM, 2 AM and 11 AM all this week from

March 5 thru March 11, 2011. All times are Eastern.

Thanks so much for listening to Southern Branch Bluegrass and The Bankester

Family.

Danny Hensley/SBBG Host

A Bit More Gospel In The Station Rotation

2011-02-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

I know, the station IS Bluegrass but I have such a like, enjoyment and respect of Gospel music that I can't help myself. I played Gospel for years and still love it so I guess it's hard to part totally from my past and select all the Gospel tunes as grassy as I can. This I've pretty much done. My philosophy has been if it ain't got a blade of grass don't put it into the rotation. Well, I added a couple recently that were Christian Contemporary and maybe even some with a southern country flare. I have another I'll probably put into the rotation tonight that's Contemporary but as I lay waiting to fall asleep last night this came into my head; If it's good why not. Of course if I don't like it I'm not gonna play it. Therefore, the latest music I've received has been a mixture of Bluegrass and Gospel so unless my listeners really throw up a flag and imply they don't like what's in the station rotation, I'll keep sprinkling in a few Gospel related projects now and then that don't
have banjo, mando, fiddle and uprite bass involved. My end resolve is we are playing music that most enjoy.

God Bless/Southern Branch Bluegrass Host/Danny Hensley

Return From The Caribbean Cruise

2011-02-18T12:00:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't ya think I'd be refreshed from a 7 day Caribbean cruise and time in the sunshine of around 85 degree 70-80 percent humidity days. Well, ba-humbug. How depressing was the cruise?
Returning to work only one day after flying in from San Juan, Puerto Rico was like torture. Therefore the question is:
1) was this a bad time of year to take a trip like this?
2) is work really that bad?
3) did I need another week at home for recovery after that much travel?

Only time will tell. I've been ruff to live with since my return and seems like depression has set in. Maybe returning back to the main radio station music broadcast system being totally down didn't help.

At this point I have this conclusion. Taking a cruise in wonderful weather, not a worry each day but what's on the itinerary at the next port and how many more pictures do I have on my memory cards for the camera's may have a big impact on the way I've felt for the last few days.
I will have to admit having the main broadcast system back up and running with great music is a definite plus.

I look forward to my Sunday broadcasts coming up this weekend. Maybe a good dose of Bluegrass-Gospel will lift my spirits plus some pick'n with the band ain't gonna hurt one bit.
Thanks for listening to http://www.southernbranchbluegrass.com/

Cherryholmes Calls It Quits In May 2011http://cherryholmes.musiccitynetworks.com/index.htm?inc=5&news_id=19247

2011-01-25T14:57:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite groups in the business is calling it quits in May, 2011. Ever since the first time I heard these folks I was in love with their tunes and effort as a family to produce such a great sound. Sad to hear but they have their reasons and I for one truly respect that. These folks will be sorely missed but I wish them the best.

The Beachley & Scott Band

2011-01-25T08:33:00.000-08:00

Darren Beachley and Barry Scott have recently formed what is being referred to as a mega-merger pairing two of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver alums. Both have been fronting their own bands in recent years with good success.
Barry Scott’s group, Barry Scott & Second Wind was a great effort musically and vocally and Darren Beachley’s group, Legends of The Potomac has been on regular rotation on "The Southern Branch Bluegrass Express" offering great sounds as well.
I’m very anxious to hear the result of this merger and hope it works out to be a successful ride for all involved.
I understand the name of the new group is "The Beachley & Scott Band".
Good Luck!

Nu-Blu

2011-01-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

Through the years, Nu-Blu has worked hard to develop a group that would give the listener a diverse experience. By mixing original and traditional material along with incorporating songs from other genres, Nu-Blu has certainly created a unique and driving blend of music that keeps audiences coming back for more.

In October 2009, Nu-Blu signed with Pinecastle Records, but unfortunately several months later, the label closed before the band’s new album, “NIGHTS,” could be released. Due to fan requests for the album, Daniel and Carolyn decided to self-release the project in May 2010 along with the first single release, “Spin on the Red Brick Floor.” Radio immediately welcomed the album as evidenced by its debut at #10 on the Euro Americana Chart, reaching as high as #7 on the Roots Music Bluegrass Report, and spending more than 5 weeks on the Americana Music Associations Top 40 chart as an indie release. Media and other sources were on board with this new group as evidenced by the incredible number of quotes and reviews for this new band and their debut album. Nu-Blu received more recognition and again widening their fan base when they were awarded “2010 Country Band of the Year” by the Carolina Music Awards.

2010 continued to be a landmark year for the band with the September 2, 2010 announcement by Pinecastle Records that the label had been purchased and was beginning operations again, and Nu-Blu would be the first artist signed to the “new” Pinecastle label. On November 22, 2010, a new single was released, “Christmas in Dixie,” a cover song made famous in the 80’s by Alabama. Just a few short weeks later, the song hit #1 on the Airplay Direct Top Bluegrass Album Chart.

With just weeks to spare in 2010, Nu-Blu made history as the first bluegrass band to launch a smart phone APP - yet again expanding their audience, but more importantly introducing bluegrass to the masses. Their new APP not only lets their fans interact with Nu-Blu by gaining access to their music videos and more, but also provides live streaming from the popular Bluegrass Blog with the latest

Review from Nu-Blu Web-site.

Bluegrass Gospel Hour on Southern Branch Radio

2011-01-10T07:20:00.000-08:00

John hosts The Bluegrass Gospel Hour on "Southern Branch Bluegrass" every Thursday afternoon @ 4:00 PM EST. Please join his fb page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Bluegrass-Gospel-Hour/174610739098?ref=mf

John is the newest member of the broadcasting family at “Southern Branch Bluegrass Radio” and I’m so very proud to have John on board.

He is proud to be a Cherokee Indian and a member of The United Cherokee Ani-Yun-Wiya Nation, a Cherokee Indian Tribe in Guntersville, Alabama.

Three of John’s hero's are General's Robert E. Lee & Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson and Crazy Horse. All three stood for what they believed in and let no one stand in their way. If someone tried.....well, you know what happened.

John grew up in Fort Oglethorpe, GA but now lives just off the Ohio River in the Mid Ohio Valley. He misses his friends back at Oakwood Baptist Church in Chickamauga, GA but have made many new friends at his new church, Fellowship Baptist Church in Vienna, WV.

I wish to make John feel welcome here at Southern Branch and I know you’ll enjoy his show each Thursday afternoon and would like you as listeners to help me to make John feel right at home here in East Tennessee and all over the world.

This dynamic program will excite you and encourage you in your every day walk with the Lord as well as entertain you with the very best music ever created.

Monroeville Bluegrass Band

2011-01-07T11:37:00.000-08:00

Monroeville is an exciting new acoustic band with a combined experience of almost 80 years of bluegrass and acoustic picking and singing. Individually they have been nominated for Grammy awards, won prestigious competitions, founded bands, and have been highly influential to acoustic, bluegrass and bluegrass gospel music. Collectively, in their few months since forming, they have appeared on the Today Show, gathered a solid fan base, and established themselves as a powerful new act in the business. The group consists of six young men from the East Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina areas.

Daniel Salyer - Bluff City, TN
Zane Petty - Kodak, TN
Travis Houck - Chilhowie, VA
Matt Flake - Sevierville, TN
Matthew Munsey - Nashville, TN
Seth Taylor - Bryson City, NC

Don Rigsby

2011-01-05T06:03:00.000-08:00

What an incredible evening with Don Rigsby last night at a performance with The Leadbetters at a local venue. An amazing voice and pick'n skills of a true veteran performer.

Eastern Kentucky native Don Rigsby started playing bluegrass early in his life and honing his skills listening and playing along with Ralph Stanley recordings. He started his musical career while in college and the travel was on. He played with many folks including The Bluegrass Cardinals, JD Crowe and The New South, Charlie Sizemore, Vern Gosdin, The Seldom Scene and The Lonesome River Band. He's had many projects released and his latest is a Gospel CD called "The Voice of God". It's a wonderful selection of tunes including one of my favorites "Charged With Being a Christian".

What a pleasure it was to talk with an entertainer that has contributed so much to Bluegrass music and my favorite part, a true southerner.

Stoney Creek Bluegrass Band

2010-12-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

Washington, DC. (December 27) - Calv'ry Booking and Management is pleased to announce the new single release "Going To Georgia" by Stoney Creek Bluegrass Band. This track is an extremely energetic update of the traditional tune made famous by the Stanley Brothers. Stoney Creek's version is found on their latest project, "Hot Off the Press".

"Going To Georgia" begins with blazing mandolin kick off by Brett Smeltzer. Darrell Sanders' banjo break tips the hat to Ralph Stanley's clawhammer style and the song's pre-bluegrass roots. Ed Barney turns in a fluid break that proves why he is one of the unsung heroes of contemporary bluegrass guitar.

Berryville Bluegrass Series promoter Frank Jurney writes: "I expected it to be very strong instrumentally. I've been familiar with super banjo player Darrell Sanders since his days with the excellent band Bill Harrell and the Virginians. After listening, I was equally impressed with the group's vocals. Libby (Files) is among the rising number of female vocalists who are making a big impact on bluegrass music. She's very easy to listen to and the group's harmony is top notch."

Stoney Creek provides a sound that hits harder than most - high energy, hard driving versions of traditional songs and obscure deep cuts that capture the live energy often polished out by other artists on studio projects. Stoney Creek not only captures the drive, but also turns up the heat with tight harmonies and stunning instrumental skill. The next Stoney Creek project will extend these qualities to several original tracks that have been winning over fans on the road.

Stoney Creek features several bluegrass veterans who are no strangers to the road. Ed Barney has toured internationally as lead guitarist for Up With People. Brett Smeltzer spent several years touring and recording with one of Maryland's premiere bluegrass acts, Jack Sanbower and the No Leeway Band. Darrell Sanders spent ten years with the Virginians, as well as a stint with Charlie Moore and the Dixie Partners. Stoney Creek was founded by bassist Libby Files, whose lead vocals are featured on "Going To Georgia".

Among others, Stoney Creek has shared the stage with Loretta Lynn, Ronnie Reno, and IBMA favorites Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper. In May 2010, Stoney Creek was named "Artist of the Week" by Bluegrass Music Profiles magazine. In August 2010, Stoney Creek did an hour long in-studio performance on WAMU's Bluegrass Country in Washington, DC. Stoney Creek was also featured at the renowned Lucketts Fair in Lucketts, Virginia.

Stoney Creek will be staying busy in the winter months, beginning their 2011 season with show dates in January. Check out www.StoneyCreekBluegrass.net for details.

I’m very proud to be affiliated with this band and will work to book them to a local venue/festival in the Knoxville or surrounding area. I see a big future with this group and certainly am impressed with the drive they posess.

Danny Hensley/Southern Branch Bluegrass Radio

This Article taken from “Stoney Creek Bluegrass Band” web-page.

Dale Ann Bradley

2010-12-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

It's 9 a.m. on a rainy January day in Nashville, five days into 2009. Dale Ann Bradley is coming up the studio steps without a raincoat, carrying a guitar and a folder full of lyrics. She's been on the road for 14 straight days, it's 25 degrees and pouring, but never mind all that. She's been shaping the concept of her new project, the follow-up to her Compass Records debut Catch Tomorrow, for months, and she can't wait to kick off the first song. She's let her heart guide her way through stacks of songs, looking for those that capture something beyond great music, something that gives voice to what she's been living and breathing in her own life for the last year. So take a seat around the coffee table at the Compass Sound Studio – where Dale Ann Bradley sits with an old D-28 and producer and banjoist Alison Brown puts her gentle mark of genius on arrangements – and let Dale Ann tell you about Don't Turn Your Back in her own words: "It needs to be more than a record," she's says. "This is my dream album. I want it to inspire people to hang in with whatever they're facing – to find the hope and inspiration to keep going. I want to share the music that's touched me and I want to put everything into it that has been given to me over the past year."
This is Dale Ann Bradley. She's the 2007 & 2008 IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year and has been hailed by Alison Krauss and Ricky Skaggs as one of the greatest vocalists in country and bluegrass music. A former Coon Creek Girl and mainstay at Kentucky's Renfro Valley Barn Dance, Bradley commands a list of awards as long as Highway 40, yet a few minutes with her tells you she is something even more than extraordinarily gifted – she's extraordinarily human. A Primitive Baptist preacher's daughter out of the hills of Kentucky where no musical instruments were allowed, Bradley grew up in a self-described "backwoods holler" down a rural road where electricity and running water weren't available until she was in high school – something she has more in common with the first generation of bluegrass than her contemporaries in today's scene.
Dale Ann Bradley is nothing if not a great storyteller, but her ability to step into someone else's shoes and make their story her own for a few minutes, that is what allows every note sung and played on Don't Turn Your Back to be believable. In the company of some of best bluegrass pickers and singers including Stuart Duncan (fiddle/banjo), Deanie Richardson (fiddle), Alison Brown (banjo), Gena Britt (banjo), Steve Gulley (vocals), and Mike Bub (bass), Bradley explores Don't Turn Your Back's undeniable themes of bravery and hope through the eyes of mothers, lovers, trains, and one shiny, soon-to-be-lucky penny. Staying true to her daughter-of-a-preacher roots, Don't Turn Your Back includes three bluegrass gospel numbers: the humorous "Rusty Old Halo", The Carter Family's "Fifty Miles of Elbow Room", and the traditional "Heaven", which features reigning IBMA Entertainers of the Year Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent. Sharing her love of classic rock and its influence on her music and voice, Bradley includes bluegrass versions of Fleetwood Mac's "Over My Head"and Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down", yet stays close to tradition with the Kentucky mountain ballad "Blue Eyed Boy". Courage is the silver thread running through all twelve tracks of Don't Turn Your Back, and it is in these songs that Bradley lays out all she's got: "Anybody Else's Heart But Mine" teaches us how to push through a broken heart, "Will I Be Good Enough" (Branscomb, Claire Lynch on guest vocals) whispers hope to uncertain parents, and "Music City Queen" (Bradley/Branscomb) documents the dauntlessness of those who come to Nashville seeking stardom. The title track calls for giving life's highway one more chance.
Dale Ann Bradley's mountain soprano has been called "shimmering" (The Washington Post), "angelic" (Billboard), and "exceptional" (Bluegrass Unlimited). An acclaimed musician and currently living in Nashville, TN, Bradley fills every stage and studio with humor, grace, and integrity.
Additional recordings in the station library include "East Kentucky Morning", "Catch Tomorrow" & "Southern Porches" and many wonderful tunes from her "Coon Creek Girls" projects.

Phil Leadbetter

2010-12-23T07:28:00.000-08:00

Phil Leadbetter (born March 31, 1962) is one of the leading players of the resonator guitar.

In 1994, Phil received a Grammy Nomination for "Best Bluegrass Album" at the 37th Annual Grammy Awards for his work with J. D. Crowe and the New South on the album "Flashback". In 2005 he was voted International Bluegrass Music Association "Dobro Player Of The Year". That year he also won "Instrumental Album Of The Year" for his CD "Slide Effects". His song "California Cottonfields" held the #1 spot on the National Bluegrass Chart for two consecutive months in 2005.

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, Phil was a 1980 graduate of Gibbs High School in Corryton, Tennessee. Gibbs was also the high school attended by country artist Kenny Chesney. Phil currently plays with The Whites. They are Grand Ole Opry members and multiple Grammy Award winners.

Phil's previous professional work: 1988 : The Grandpa Jones Show 1989 : The Vern Gosdin Band 1990-2001 J.D. Crowe And The New South 2002-2006 Wildfire (Founding member) 2007-2010 Grasstowne (Founding member) 2010-Present The Whites

The Phil Leadbetter Signature Dobro, manufactured by the Gibson Guitar Corporation, is named after him. It features a square neck for steel guitar playing and a single inverted-cone resonator. The guitar also features solid wood construction. It is the only guitar being made today which bears the name "Dobro".

Wonder Radio & Radio Time Announcement

2010-12-16T15:09:00.000-08:00

I'm so pleased to announce that "Wonder Radio" & "Radio Time" has picked up Southern Branch Bluegrass to allow listeners to receive broadcasts through their smart-phones and an online radio broadcast server/web-site to give a wide open number of listeners world wide. This will enable Southern Branch to increase the listener base and enhance the quality of sound being produced. Pure/crystal clear stereo is incredible now especially through http://www.radio.time.com/ and bookmarking the station is easier than ever. A HUGE "THANK YOU" goes out to my good friend and tech guy "Willie Ray" and his dog out in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND GOOD LISTENING!http://www.wunderradio.com/stations.php?query=southern+branch+bluegrass

Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen

2010-12-16T05:34:00.000-08:00

Review: Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen
posted by Brance on 08.17.10 @ 12:22 pm Tags: Frank Solivan II
I’ve been a fan of Frank Solivan II since I first heard him perform with the United States Navy band, Country Current. Frank has since left the Navy and formed his own band bearing his name, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen. Today marks the release of the band’s self-titled debut album. Frank has previously released two solo CDs, but this is the first band recording to be released.
The CD contains 12 tracks, 5 written by Frank. From the first note it’s obvious this is a group of accomplished musicians playing music they love. Drifting Apart hits you full force with no warning. The music is driving and forceful and the vocals are anything but drifting, they are as tight as one could hope to hear. You can feel the energy and excitement. This is contemporary bluegrass with it’s roots firmly planted in tradition.
You’ll have to be on your toes and paying attention to grasp all the intricacies of what’s happening. For example, the second track is an innovative version of John Stewart’s folk tune, July You’re A Woman. The cut begins with a Backwaters feel, then turns into a strait up bluegrass tune, with Munford’s melodic banjo driving in a way you might not have expected. Solivan’s mandolin solo is clean, full of triplets, and leads smoothly into Meyers’s flawless guitar solo. The fiddle takes you back into the lyrics, leading to the closing banjo solo, where if you listen closely you’ll smile as you here strains of Blackberry Blossom incorporated seamlessly, and appropriately, into Munford’s melodic interpretation of this 60′s folk tune.
Tarred and Feathered is sure to be favorite. From special guest John Cowan’s tenor vocals, to Lincoln Meyer’s driving rhythm guitar, this song is one of those medium tempo tunes that just throbs with bluegrass attitude.
Left Out In The Cold, another Solivan original, offers a heartfelt insider’s view of the trials faced by those who live their lives on the street without a home.
I could go on, there’s even an a cappella gospel number to close the CD, but you get the idea. The press release described this as “an album that offers up a smorgasbord of musical sounds.” Judging by the breadth of styles represented on this CD I’d say that’s an accurate, but inadequate description. Inadequate, because it says nothing of the coherent relationship that exists between these 12 tunes. They differ stylistically enough to warrant such a description, but they all work together flawlessly to tell one metanarrative: Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen can’t be put in a box.
Make no mistake, these guys are a bluegrass band, but they teach us here that bluegrass is more of an attitude that it is a specific musical formula. They have material here that your average bluegrass band wouldn’t be able to make you believe. In the liner notes Frank makes the point more than once that with these disparate tunes they took each one and “spread it out on the floor and bluegrassed all over it.” That’s a line I plan to remember and quote in the future!
Solivan is a singer of power and passion and a writer whose articulate songs go straight to the heart. A multi-instrumentalist who combines the pure, hard drive of classic bluegrass with twenty-first century sophistication, Solivan and company are increasingly in demand at festivals and venues across the country.
He is joined by Baltimore/D.C. five string-banjo master Mike Munford, Stefan Custodi as the heartbeat of Dirty Kitchen on upright bass, and flatpick guitar wizard Lincoln Meyers. Solivan finds an outlet that suits his talents to a T, combining his unique and varied experience in the middle of three top-notch musicians who lift each other up and let each person’s talents shine through in the most impressive of ways.
If you get the chance, you’ll want to try to catch Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen at a House Concert. Not only are these intimate settings great for listening to music, but in addition to being a gifted musician, Frank is also a gourmet cook and treats the evening’s guests to a pre-show feast. This unique combination of great food and great music is called The Dirty Kitchen Experience: Dinner with the Band. How better to bring people together than music and food? And Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen is the group to do just that.

Redwing

2010-12-14T08:11:00.000-08:00

"Redwing consists of vocalist/guitarist Kevin Williamson, his father Jerry on bass, mandolinist Rudy Rohr, banjo player Dale Vanderpool and fiddler Buddy Griffin. The bluegrass band released Do You Ever Think of Me in 1992."

This music is lined with velvet harmonies and some incredible string work. I feel very fortunate to have received a project from this group and have added them to the Southern Branch music library. Tune in for their special sound.

New Weekly Blogs Coming This Week

2010-12-12T15:26:00.000-08:00

Where is Southern Branch Radio Heading?

Adding Dj's

Scheduling Live Events/Concerts/Shows

Continue Adding New, Fresh/New Music Added Every Week/Sometimes Daily

Gain Sponsors to Cover Cost of Operations

Continue to Add New Listeners

Schedule/Record Interviews With Artists/Entertainers

Continue Plans for Construction of New Studio

Sarah Pirkle's New Release

2010-06-20T04:59:00.000-07:00

I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to hear two new songs by Sarah Pirkle recently that is soon to come on her brand new project still in the works. These tunes are filled to the brim with an Appalachian flair from the carefully crafted words to the music that fills the air like a Smokey Mountain morning. What a natural voice that is unmatched in the form and style that is perfect for a girl sending the feel that she has literally lived the words she is singing from the emotion she delivers when performing. Meeting Sarah in person gives you the feeling your meeting an individual that loves what she does and hearing her perform in person gives you the spine tingling feeling your witnessing an individual that is on the brink of greatness. Sarah and her husband Jeff Barbra, have two previous projects out entitled "Dog Years" and "Barb Hollow Sessions" which I had to have for air~play. As a host of Southern Branch Bluegrass radio, I am a fan as well as bringing you the best music I can find. After meeting these folks a few months ago, I felt compelled to listen to the music they've produced and simply went to "you tube" and "myspace" to review a few tunes by this couple and was literally blown away by what each had accomplished on these projects. I wasted no time and went online and purchased both. I'm sure they would have offered me copies but I couldn't wait. I wanted them on my radio show that day. I still play their tunes on a regular basis and will continue to do so. What a wonderful contribution to East Tennessee that we have these two great artists living here to take in the natural Appalachian style of living and post this through the art each have to offer musically and the song writing capabilities of this duo are simply incredible. I love Sarah's craftsmanship so much I've pre-purchased my copy of her new release coming soon and if you get a chance, get yours ordered now as well. You will absolutely love it I'm sure.

John & Julie Pennell

2010-06-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

A tremendous pleasure to hear a living legend, John Pennell with a very sweet and talented side kick, Julie Pennell to play for a nice crowd last night at a house concert on the river in Knoxville. Both John and Julie are song writers and have many songs that have been performed by others such as Mandy Barnett, Audie Blaylock, Sally Jones, Alison Krauss and Dan Tyminski just to name a few. Songs were performed with tremendous enthusiasm and emotion which really added to the evening. These folks have a brand new project coming out in the next couple months and I'm really looking forward to it. One fine treat were the tunes that these folks have put their own spin on such as tunes by Fleetwood Mack, The Beatles and James Taylor. John really shined like a new penny on his finger pick'n style and capabilities on numbers such as "Blackbird" by The Beatles. Ya get a chance, attend these house concerts in your area. This supports the music and gives you the chance to get up close to great entertainers.
Irene Kelley and The Carter Brothers are scheduled to appear at this same venue soon. Looking very forward to these shows.

Great 1st Week Night Show

2010-06-16T10:37:00.001-07:00

Featuring the great artist Darrell Scott's newest release "A Crooked Road", my first week night show started off as a sweat fest but after reviewing the video today, it actually ended up sounding much better than I expected. My biggest fear nearly reared it's ugly head. I had rehearsed my set up the previous night and had everything working fine. I cranked up the power on my equipment to do the show and had a bad buzz I could not locate. Well, literally less than 10 minutes before air time, I had to move on to plan "B" and do an open mic program. NOT gonna complain. It worked. I'm in the process of upgrading my equipment for broadcasting and ordered a fine mixer, an external sound card and additional gear to help make my program more pleasing to the listener and enhance communications while on the air by adding a chat room and planning video overlays of performers which I'm very excited about. This will also allow me to take skype calls and do interviews while on the air. Let me mention please, it is well worth having a great friend helping me do this as he is one talented individual when it comes to technical issues. A very special Thank You to my buddy "T" aka, Red Neck Willie Ray and his dog. A special thank you to my listeners and supporters as I feel this will open up doors for me as I could have never been able to do with my previous station affiliation. I'll keep a monthly calendar available on my website of shows and upcoming events and a special thanks to Darrell Scott for all his determined hard work to bring us, "A Crooked Road". Disc # 2 scheduled for June 22, 2010, next Tuesday night. See ya there.

Summer Cruise

2010-06-14T08:12:00.000-07:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time off and visit to the Bahama's and Key West, Florida.
What a thrill I don't care to repeat any time soon. I love to cruise but it's like a marathon. Hurry up and get on the boat. Hurry up and get off the boat at each disembarkment and try and sop up all the views and food, shop and.........OK, you get it. Well, unfortunately I don't have Oprah's $$$ therefore back to the grind of everyday life which hey, ain't that bad. I simply love traveling therefore I'm gonna take Samantha Brown's word for it and plan a trip to Porta Vallerta, Mexico for this fall. I'm planning on being there the week of my birthday so a party on my behalf is gonna be a hoot I'm sure. Musically, I've decided to make several changes to my radio career as well as headed back to a music career of writing and composing. I've got a blueprint of the studio I plan on building on my property and it will be fairly small but it will finally give me a place to do all the things I'm gonna accomplish. Broadcasting my show will be much easier and productive and will get numerous instruments out of the house as well as amplifiers, mixing boards, digital recorders, etc. and in a setting that will give each piece a deserved place to live. Never buy an up rite bass unless you have room to store it and use it as needed. It's a chore to get all this stuff out and try to practice and record due to the way our house is designed. It's an open floor plan so the kitchen, dining and living room are all one. It's called clutter. I've collected so much equipment I've actually donated a complete sound system to a Nashville venue and still can't move. OK, now. I'm starting this week to host my shows again starting tomorrow night @ 7:00PM til 8:00PM Eastern and will host a one hour show on Thursday as well in the same time slot. Sunday's until further notice will continue to do shows on World Wide Bluegrass but my new time slot will be back to 4:00PM - 6:00PM Eastern. I've found that 4 continuous hours is taking away from my family time and it's incredible to prepare for a show lasting 4 hours. Please check my calendar on my web-page to keep up with my broadcast times and live event schedules. I hope all will continue to enjoy my broadcasts and e-mail requests, suggestions and recommendations. Be happy to hear from you.

Tennessee Shines May 26, 2010

2010-05-27T07:24:00.000-07:00

A much anticipated event in which I've had tickets to for a month. The Bowman's, Cherryholmes, Darrell Scott and Jim Lauderdale were the line up. Blog's may not be the place to conduct this kinda business but, oh well, here it goes. The Bowman's listed as from Brooklyn, New York started the evening out with an Americana, Pop, Indie style that in the correct venue would be great I'm sure. Not Tennessee Shines with Cherryholmes and Darrell Scott. They seemed to be on stage forever and are fairly talented but? Cherryholmes came on next and featured tunes off their brand new CD Common Threads. The sound system was shallow and very flat considering I've seen them in concert 3 times and this was a slap in their face. I've met each individual in this family and think the world of them. I've never seen such unhappy looks from each one. These folks are true professionals and I'm sure they felt this as nothing but a gravel in the road. They gave a wonderful performance considering they were only given enough time for 4 songs. Darrell Scott was up next and he was so smooth and personal. Unfortunately, he was given the same treatment with the sound system. Emotion runs thru his blood when he sings and getting to speak with him was so awesome for me as a DJ and musician myself. I'm gonna look up his schedule and try and see him when he's not limited to only 4 songs. He made a comment himself while on stage about the time limit. These two, Cherryholmes and Darrell Scott overshadowed anyone else that took stage last night and seems really interesting that when the final act took stage, the sound guy cranked up the volume and changed the entire mix for the Lauderdale Band. I'll have a different perspective on Tennessee Shines from now on and hope it is somehow overcome soon. I've seen this kinda thing before and it's a lousy pitch to do when icon's in the biz do things to one-another like this. A special thanks to Sandy, Cia and the gang and especially Darrell Scott for his kindness and patience to take time to chat and take a couple pics with me. This guy is literally a walking/talking/singing/writing legend as far as I'm concerned. You folks ROCK and as a fan, keep those beautiful tunes rolling in.

Flood of Love Benefit Concert

2010-05-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, May 23, 2010, a benefit concert was held at Vernon's Grill in Knoxville, Tennessee for three alumni graduates from Farragut High School. These folks live in Nashville and lost everything in the recent flood. What started out on face book as a concern from fellow alumni turned into a monster event covered by WVLT's Michelle Silva and myself with World Wide Bluegrass. Our little station is broadcast all over the globe via Internet stream and was heard in Australia by an individual that had a son performing. He spoke with me during the event and really showed appreciation for coverage. The performers were great to donate their time and talent and many folks pitched in to make this project successful. I was informed that over $ 30,000 was raised and am proud to be part of it. Congrats to all and certainly send best wishes to the families that the event was held for.

Flatrock Cafe Flood Relief Benefit Concert

2010-05-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

A major thank you to all who volunteered for this event. A heart felt thank you to all who donated funds for the folks in dire need from the recent flood of 2010. This night's talent was incredible and only the fact that it couldn't go nonstop for at least three days is the only gripe I have.

Mindy Smith, Tommy Womack, Randy Kohrs, Irene Kelley, Robby Hecht, Sarah Jean Kelley, Steve Lee, Like Red Candy, And Okay and Donna Beasley were all loaded with energy and enthusiam.

The entire evening was like pure festivel atmosphere, relaxed, friendly and casual and extremely appealing. My kinda peeps.

The whole night was broadcast world wide with web cam feed and professional audio.
Listeners and viewers were entertained with a vast array of musical styles and I was so impressed by the performers that I had never heard perform before.

The group "Like Candy Red" simply killed the audience. Absolutely incredible. From their appearence to their powerful blues kicking impact, I simply had to leave my broadcast stool and become an overpowered fan. They literally sent me and the entire crowd into orbit. AMAZING!!!!!
I have not been taken by a group like this in quite sometime. Ya got to give these folks a listen. WOW. http://www.myspace.com/colliersistersmusic

Mindy Smith was such a crowd pleaser that I've never been in a more packed house than when she took stage. She lured in the emotions like peering into a newborn baby's eyes. Her voice is truly a gift from Heaven. Her entire talent from song writing to her live performance is literally worth exceptional accalades.http://www.myspace.com/mindysmith

Irene Kelley doing Highway was as sweet as honey to me. I'm quite prejudice since I've known her for quite sometime but still, nobody has better song writing skills and from the heart performances than sweet Irene.

Sarah Jean, Irene's daughter was so beautiful to look at when I met her and gave an interview before she took stage, I hardly remember what we even said. She is quite talented and truly breath taking. This girl is on the road to a great career.

Every performer was at the top of their game and the evening topped off with a performance by Randy Kohrs. I was so excited to simply meet the guy. He took off like a true award winning entertainer that he is.

He brought along a full grass ensemble from a fiddler, banjo roller/guitar player, upright bass player, and Randy performed a couple tunes splashing out his perfection on the resonitor. His vocals were so powerful and what a vocal range he has. The harmonies were equally impressive.
The only style I can compare him to is Josh Shilling of Mountain Heart. He could sing the entire spectrum and come out with electrifing applause from the crowd. He was simply begged for an oncore and oblidged. http://www.myspace.com/randykohrs
A night to remember and an inspiring evening for me as well. I love all sorts of music and performance styles so the evening suited me to a "T".

Hey, I'm ready to do it again and hopefully we'll do a much bigger event soon to assist with more funds for the flood relief efforts. Let's not drop the ball you'all. Nashville needs us and we're here to help. We're not called volunteers for nothing!

Southern Branch Bloopers

2010-04-27T06:29:00.000-07:00

Got a dandy for ya. All the schedules I'm trying to keep caught up with me this past Sunday. My show starts at 2:00PM EST and I had the house to myself and the two dogs. Around 12:30PM or so I had the urge for a nap. I had been up since around 4:00 AM and felt run down and figured what the hay, nap sounds great. Should I have set an alarm, YES! I was hearing my phone ring and couldn't break through the dozing fog to wake up. AHHHHHH. Sunday afternoon naps. I can think of only two things better. I finally break through and peak up at the clock, 2:10PM EST. Yikes~I scrambled around and signed on to do my show with a chat room wondering where I was. I promise you, the first half hour was a pure daze. Hopefully if I find myself in that position again I'll set the alarm. Great bluegrass to ya!!!

Cody Kilby & Andy Leftwitch

2010-04-23T05:57:00.000-07:00

CODY KILBY

The evening started off with great food and conversation at a beautiful house concert event held on the Holston river in Knoxville last night. Cody and Andy were hot from the first note. Perfection and pure professionalism come to mind when it comes to these two pickers. Cody Kilby has four Grammy's and so does Andy Leftwitch. Never have I witnessed such finesse as from these two guys. No wonder they play for Ricky Skaggs. He obviously knows how to pick'm. Each have a solo project and well worth looking into. These boys are what other artists refer to as a musician's musician. It's literally indescribable to try and put into words what Cody and Andy sound like playing instrument's only feet away from you at this level. "Pure perfect pleasure" should be the title for the evening if I was making the call. Check out the links and you make up your mind. Nobody on the planet any better!

ANDY LEFTWITCH

Live Remote From The Flatrock Cafe

2010-04-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

What a tremendous evening from Nashville with some wonderful people. The most gracious people you'd ever want to meet were plentiful at The Flatrock Cafe. The night was to feature the awesome singer Irene Kelley and her beautiful song writing abilities.

From beginning to end the house was filled with such brilliant vocals and strings provided by Irene, Scott Neubert and Joey Click. Scott impressed me so much with his guitar work and he performed a solo tune that nearly brought the house to tears. A somewhat sad tune but exhorted the talent of Scott's song writing abilities and his singing ability enhanced by his guitar work.

http://www.myspace.com/scottneubert is some of Scott's work. The tune he performed was "A Daughter And Her Dad". This is on his Myspace page.

Joey Click is a superb Bass player and has a list of credit's a mile long and is presently touring with Josh Turner. He played on Irene's first project "Simple Path" and has performed on Merle Haggard's tribute project among others.

A final tribute goes to Ronnie Haislip, owner of the Cafe and most gracious host. He was simply the very best and what a pleasure to meet and get to know an individual with his kindness open throughout our visit.

Irene has plan's to do at least two new projects, one being a bluegrass record and a new project with her own song's already written. I certainly hope we continue to grow our friendship with these folks and more remotes for the listeners. I'll do my best to keep you folks posted and this was a night of music we won't soon forget. Fresh performance feel to the entire evening and the performers seemed to really enjoy themselves. I certainly did.

Preaching The Fire Down

2010-04-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful evening and celebration of the brand new project from Greenbrier called "Preaching The Fire Down". This group is one you need to grab the chance to see perform live if at all possible. They are loaded with great musicians and honest hearted folks. This was an evening I'll soon not forget.

Featuring the unmistakable voice and song writing capabilities of Jimbo Whaley, this night took off like thunder. Starting off at 6:30PM local time, a crowd of over 1,ooo fans were in for a real treat in a very comfortable setting in an auditorium in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Greenbrier started off with some of their signature tunes and performed for about an hour and a half. I had intentions of leaving at intermission until Freddy Smith of WDVX told me Jimbo wanted to have church in the second half of the program. Am I glad I stayed. Gospel~Grass time in Tennessee. All the remaining portion of the night was (church) folks with preaching, praising and the best music of the night.

One of my favorite tunes "Two Coats" was performed by a gentleman I've never had the pleasure to hear or meet but sure sang the song with extremely warm hearted enthusiasm. Roscoe Morgan was as crisp and clear from a pick'n and sing'n side as I've ever heard. Roger Helton was spread all over the stage from claw-hammer-style banjo pick'n to guitar and dobro. His vocals were wonderful as always. The group had two guest pickers that were a treat as good as it gets. Trey Hensley added superb guitar licks and Kipper Stitt provided excellant banjo and vocals to the evening. The entire night turned out to be a true treasure. Songs performed were from "All The Hay's In The Barn" to the theme song for "Tennessee Pride Country Sausage" and some of the newest songs were "Missy Rose" and the title cut from the new project, "Preaching The Fire Down".

I certainly hope we can book these folks to GrassStock 2010 to be held in August. Ya get the chance, go out and see'm. If ya can't, get the new CD. You will not be disappointed.

House Concert

2010-04-09T06:15:00.000-07:00

I was recently invited to a house concert and had actually never heard of this type thing going on around here. Featured artists were David Peterson and Charlie Cushman. A beautiful setting and super friendly folks attended and several were easily recognized but I'm gonna keep that private due to pure respect. The evening started off with introductions and brief history on how these two met and each song throughout the night had a brief history of who wrote the tune to be played and what a couple of icons. Even though Charlie claimed to not be a guitar player, he literally shined on the tunes he and Dave picked together. Charlie played a 1946 Gibson and it had a tone of it's own. The harmonic effects were incredible and I was most impressed when the two both played guitars on the same number. David has one of the strongest voices on the planet and yet could do a vocal that had the sweetest emotion you could ever inject into a song. One of the favorite songs to me was when Jeff Barbra and Sarah Pirkle sand a three way harmony tune with Dave called White Dove. Possibly the favorite tune of the night was when the crowd all chimed in on the last song of the evening of an old gospel hymn that rang the rafters and brought the house down. This bunch could make a great choir. In conclusion, ya ever get an invite to a House Concert......GO!!! This was possibly one of the best times you could ever have. One last note, Jeff Barbra informed me he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior about six weeks ago. That was to me the best news of the night. Hang in there Jeff, Heaven's just a step away my friend.

Tennessee Shines

2010-04-01T04:19:00.000-07:00

Last night was such a great experience at Tennessee Shines I wanted to share it with you. Held at The Bijou Theater in Knoxville, Tennessee the last Wednesday of each month and hosted by Jim Lauderdale, there were five performers/groups that played but my focus is on the group, Brand New Strings. A traditional bluegrass band that has it all and is from right here in good ole East Tennessee. They have a brand new CD out called "No Strings Attached"and is as good as it gets. Their performance was so good you'd think you were hearing the CD if you closed your eyes. The lead singer sounds like Del McCoury 30 years ago with a little more purity and clean/crisp depth to his vocals and the harmonies drive like The Lonesome River Band. Every instrument played was near perfection for the traditional bluegrass fan (like me) and the vocal blend like a fresh warm breeze. From the traditional bluegrass sound perspective, this group is the very best around, period. I'll try my best to arrange for these boys to play GrassStock 2010 to be held August 12-14 in Harrodsburg, Kentuckey. No one will want to miss these performers and I have no doubt they are a force in the bluegrass world that we'll be hearing more about as they commence their travels and new projects as they develop. You can find out more @ http://www.brandnewstringstringsband.com/ and http://www.grassstock.com/. Check these boys out folks, you will not be disappointed.

Greenbrier

2010-03-31T06:27:00.000-07:00

What an amazing bluegrass-gospel group. Had an amazing experience last night attending a concert put on by these folks. Basically a local band but have the most incredible audience connection I've ever experienced. Now, please remember I have a reason to be biased in my opinion. I have a distant relative that plays and sings with this group and they play my favorite kind of music. Gospel-Grass!
Greenbrier has a brand new project coming out called "Preaching The Fire Down" and have a very unique way of introducing the project. April 10, 2010 they have a CD release show planned and will be held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and with your admission you'll receive a copy of the new project which is included in the ticket price. Guess who's gonna be there? Yes, wouldn't miss it for the world. This group consists of some of the best song writers imaginable. Jimbo Whaley, Roger Helton and Roscoe Morgan. These folks have been around for a while pick'n and sing'n with different groups but they've hit the nail on the head. With the addition of a new female fiddler only 16 years old and awesome and tremendous dog-house thumper they have it going on folks. You can bet you'll be hearing all I can get on Southern Branch Bluegrass of these folks and what a tremendous honor to have a group of individuals who are not afraid to deliver a great testimony for Jesus Christ during their shows and you can tell these folks are the real deal when speaking to them one-on-one. They speak of what the Lord has enabled them to do and you sure can experience Greenbrier on my show and their upcoming CD release show. Find out more details @ www.jimbowhaley.com and www.smokymountaingospel.com. These folks are tremendous!!!!

Spring Fund Drive Shows

2010-03-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

Tune in every weekday morning for an impromptu one hour show that is broadcast from 8:30 am til 9:30 am to put the spotlight on our upcoming GrassStock Festival to be held in Harrodsburg, Kentucky August 12-14 2010 to raise funds for worldwidebluegrass to keep the music coming and also the annual spring fund drive is under way officially starting in April. These shows are short but fun and will feature a lot of brand new music every morning to get your day off right. Come join us when you can. I promise I'll have something to play that will entertain the ears and the station certainly needs your support.
www.worldwidebluegrass.com
www.GrassStock.com
www.southernbranchbluegrass.com

DJ Host
Danno~

Steve Gulley

2010-03-23T06:12:00.001-07:00

Heard Steve Gulley on WDVX this morning with Freddy Smith and what a thrill. He's spreading his wings in several directions including a new project with Dale Ann Bradley and his Band Grasstowne is adding two new members which will undoubtedly give the group a new sound and look forward to these new creations in the making. He also mentioned a very special Cove Lake State Park concert to be held in June. Check out his web site for details.

Tim O'brien

2010-03-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIMBO!!!
Literally one of my favorite artists of all time.
Born March 16, 1954 in Wheeling, West Virginia. Not only does this feller have a tremendous singing voice but plays guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bouzouki, and mandocello. It doesn’t stop there, his song writing abilities have probably been appreciated mostly by another one of my musical icons Kathy Matteau.

Tim shot out the door in 1973 to pursue his musical career and moved to Boulder, Colorado and became part of the music scene there. In Colorado he met up with and decided to be on the team of a pick’n group that called themselves Hot Rize. This group was formed in 1978 and for twelve years had a very successful ride as one of the most innovative and entertaining bluegrass bands in America. To add to the entertaining perspective of the group, the members of the band would take a short break and arrive back on stage in costumes and literally change their pick’n and sing’n to a classic and offbeat country and western music style and assume the name “Red Knuckles and The Trailblazers.” The crowds obviously loved it since they were honored with Entertainer of the year in 1990 and 1993 by the IBMA. Mr. O’Brien additionally took the Vocalist of the Year honors as well on both occasions and Hot Rize soon disbanded as a regular touring and recording band.

Tim was nowhere near ready to give up his success as a picker and singer and embarked into a solo career entering a folk music adventure that has been possibly the most rewarding to the listener. In 2005, Timbo won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album for “Fiddlers Green.”
Tim once stated that when he heard the first Doc Watson album, I thought, what does he need a band for? This guy’s got it all. I can relate that to Tim as a solo performer. I was so fortunate to hear Tim O’Brien recently in Athens, Tennessee at The Community Arts Center in front of 100-200 folks in a small auditorium and what an experience. Got to talk to the man and purchased one of every CD available on his up for grabs table and have enjoyed each and every one. Tim performed two sets and played every instrument he brought with him and I was most impressed by his finger pick’n on the small scale flat top box he played. He also does a number where he harmonizes vocally with his fiddle and it’s breathe taking as an artist and listener. I honestly feel like I met and heard a living legend walking among us and he had some of the best clean jokes that simply added to his wonderful performance. Thank you Tim O’Brien and hope to cross paths with you again soon.

Check out my favorite Tim O’Brien video on you tube of “Look Down That Lonesome Road” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31rBocJU15M

Radio Show Highlights From March 7, 2010

2010-03-11T10:08:00.000-08:00

My first crash and burn broadcast was held this past Sunday when I took the stream and found out my puter was sick. I had picked up a virus and didn't even know it until just before my show was to start. This topped off my prior week of doing a mic check with a new device and not even realizing I had kicked my on-air broadcasting encoders and was streaming the background noise of the television, dogs barking and my wife and I talking about family issues. Thankfully the jolly fellow DJ Terry Poirior was to take the stream soon and gave me a phone call and chuckled at my mistake.
Back to my crash and burn broadcast. I had an entire show planned and got to noticing that my songs were being deleted as my show was taking place. I picked all my promo's and songs appropriate for station airplay policies and lo and behold Eric Clapton, or Steve Warner, Montgomery-Gentry, Levon Helm or somebody out of nowhere would just pop up and start playing. Hopefully this will never happen again and have taken several steps to avoid another panic and scream show. All you can say is you never know what's gonna take place once you go on the stream. Thanks to all that understand that I'm human and bad things can happen to good people.

Stacy Grubb-HURRICANE

2010-03-04T08:41:00.001-08:00

Stacy Grubb is one of my favorite artists arriving on the scene with a superb variety of musical selections that range from bluegrass, country, pop, soul and gospel. Such a vast range I believe will give her multiple marketing opportunities to entertain a wide range of listeners and open up many performance venues.

Stacy grew up in the Appalachian hills of southern West Virginia in McDowell County. Around middle school, Stacy became interested in songwriting and spent most of her teen years honing her writing skills, as well as her vocal control and technique. Her writing has, without a doubt, been heavily influenced by the country tunes of the 50's and 60's she remembered her dad singing to her when she was a young girl. "Dad would sing those sad songs and tell me about how he and my grandma would sit around the record player and just cry and cry listening to them. They loved it and I did too. It just made sense to me that a song's worth should be measured by how sad it can make you feel. Whenever she feels the tears coming on when she's writing a new song, she knows she's onto something.

In 2004, Stacy joined her dad's music group, South 52 (then known as The McDowell County Project), after having spent the previous four years working as a veterinarian assistant in Knoxville, Tennessee. "I was so thrilled to be in Dad's group for about a million different reasons, not the least of which being the fact that it's such a special thing to be able to share with your dad. But I'd never had the opportunity to perform on a regular basis and we were booking shows pretty often. It was all just local stuff, but we had so much fun with it and I learned a lot.

In the meantime, Stacy has picked up a lot of musical influences along the way, including artists like Alison Krauss, Ron Block, Julie Lee, Mindy Smith, Miranda Lambert, Waylon Jennings, Goose Creek Symphony, Don Rigsby, Crooked Still, Dailey & Vincent and the list is ever-growing. "Music is such a gift," she says. "It's so special. I can't explain how grateful I am to play some part in the making of it. The music that I love just leaves me feeling like I don't even know what to do with myself when I'm listening to it. For me, that's what's so special about the folks I list as 'influences.' They're out there doing something that just slays me when I hear it. Voices that I could go swimming in.

Very few things in this life have the ability to do all the things that music can do. I'm a fanatic, I know. It's just a part of me people have to deal with."Stacy's parents are Alan and Wilma Johnston. She has two sisters and one brother, as well as six nieces and nephews. She is married to her high school sweetheart and they share a son together. Stacy's website

Hurricane features nine tracks written by Stacy and what an all-star lineup of musicians including Brent Mason, Rob Ickes, Aubry Hanie, Ron Block and the Storm'n duo of Daily & Vincent. One last note, The CD was recorded at Hill Top Studios in Nashville, Tennessee which is owned and operated by two of my favorite people on the face of the earth. Danny and Tim Carter of The Carter Brothers Band. Way to go guys. This was a win-win Project cause Stacy is a wonderful gal with a super bright future.

First Class Bluegrass from Ashville, North Carolina

2010-02-16T10:25:00.000-08:00

What a thrill and privilege to get the opportunity to attend the First Class Bluegrass event held at The Crowne Plaza Resort in beautiful Ashville, North Carolina. My experience was centered on the ballroom performers so that will be my focus during this blog. This event went from February 12 – 14, 2010. The line-up was exceptional and the first group to perform was the Snyder Family Band. What a group and what a super sound. Look out for an outstanding future for this group considering the age of the guitar picker and the little gal playing the fiddle. The Snyder son is around 14-15 years old and the daughter is about 12 or so. They’re dad plays bass and mama shows up for some vocal blends and they have a four year old in training.
Next Best Thing are Rhonda’s daughters and are exceptional and have a new flat-top picker that added to the sound in a very positive way. These gals will be around for a long time and will continue to bloom like a rose.
What a thrill to experience The Dillards. The guitar picker from The Darlings off The Andy Griffith Show has a group that really cooks and has a very humorous stage presence. A very pretty young lady took the stage with the band toward the end of their performance and added superb harmonies and claw-hammer style banjo that set the house on fire!
Rhonda Vincent & The Rage took the stage around 3:00 PM EST and put on the best show I’ve seen her do. She was much more relaxed during this event and was elated to be there, it was so prevalent.
Last act of the early set was Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out and about 3 songs into their performance these boys really started to heat up like a hot summer thunder storm. They were really in sink and the crowd responded with tremendous enthusiasm including me. The music flowed out like a fresh flowing stream in the spring-rain. Vocals were spine chilling and made the hair stand up on the back of your neck.
The evening show still went on but I didn’t get to attend due to the weather. We had snow move in and it literally grid-locked the traffic and I couldn’t make it back from my hotel for the second round of entertainment.
What a beautiful facility this was. Huge stone fireplaces in the Lobby with constant picking even during the ballroom performances and superb eateries throughout the facility. Many booths and exhibits were set up from jewelry to musical instruments to a host of t-shirts, hats and of course, CD’s available from each group. Hot dang, a bluegrasses’ paradise.

Saturday’s show started up at 11:30 AM EST. with The Moore Brothers Band. This groups little stars mainly consists of 2 little tikes decked out like The Blues Brothers, sunglasses and all black outfits playing mando’s. They are very young little fellers with a true gift of showmanship and the crowd really loved them.
The Rye Holler Boys took the stage next and I was slammed back into my chair. WOW!!! Little did I know these teens were so talented but I found out fast. They were extremely well dressed in black suits with black cowboy hats and what vocal talent. Very relaxed on stage and had a connection with the audience that was really like a commune halo over the room. I think everybody was really into these boys. I certainly was. They performed tunes off their new project “Old Gravel Road” and were crisp and clean. I really look forward to seeing these boys again and again.
Darin and Brooke Aldridge took the stage next and I had only heard them on the net a time or two so I was really looking forward to their performance. Well, if ya love an angelic voice, Brooke certainly had it. I have not been impressed by another female voice such as hers since Alison first came onto the scene. Yeppers fans, I ain’t kiddin ya, she is that good and they had a great band. Darin was a very talented vocalist but when Darin and Brooke harmonized, you could feel the love between them and their love for what they were singing. Yes, I ordered their newest CD this morning. They sing a lot of gospel-grass (which is my favorite) and they thanked “Jesus Christ” openly and with praise and comfort for what he had done for them and the crowd responded with great enthusiasm as they should.
The Darrell Webb Band was up next and delivered a great performance. These folks had deep rooted talent and were pick’n up a storm. Great stage presence and a solid performance.
The Lonesome River Band took the stage next and had a cool start but after a little sound tweaking for the first three songs or so they settled in and started to shine. A little rust for some reason needed to be lightly sanded off but the gut of pure endurement to produce a good show took over. WOW. Brandon, the lead vocalist got red hot and captured the moment with his intense but pleasant vocals and started to give the band the edge they needed to take off. Sammy started to heat up and the whole band fed off each other and they seemed to be the hottest when they finished their set.
The Steep Canyon Rangers waltzed rite up on stage and they must have warmed up to a sweet glisten rolling off their brow well before coming into the room. They hit the stage running like Olympic blue grassers because the crowd responded like they their hair was on fire and another part of their anatomy was catching, aka via Charlie Daniels. These boys were as smooth as silk and had a fiddler that was as good as I’ve heard. Every picker on stage was in a zone and they were making the most of this opportunity. Vocals shined like a new penny and every person in the room was being treated to an unforgettable performance. The flat picker had it all going from licks to singing like an angel with authority. We got to looking around the room from the sound table and it looked like a group of 800+ bobble heads. Yep, me included. I thought to myself, who in the world could ever follow these guys after an encore number and low and behold, I had to look down at my schedule and realized that at that moment I could think of only one group.
Daily & Vincent were due up next and I was giddy out the ying yang. I had missed two previous opportunities to see these boys do a complete performance. The only time I had seen them in person was once and that was at the 2009 IBMA’s in Nashville at The Ryman Auditorium. I guess if anybody in the business could even come close to following the SCR was gonna be D & V. They started a little cool but were not affected at all. Talk about jokesters, the entire bunch were having a blast but the outburst of laughter numerous times from Darrin Vincent turned out to be an excellent ice breaker and showed everyone how at ease he was on stage and in front of a huge crowd. They had such a warm welcome from the crowd and the moment they hit a Statler Brothers tune the crowd responded with “oh my”, is this good or what. With the addition of a new bass singer to the group, it made the vocal delivery even more powerful. What harmonies!
Saturdays show was like an Olympic event. With only a one hour break which for me only ended up being long enough to cram down a $ 5.00 hot dog, it was time to prep for the evening set by changing out cables and resetting the sound levels for broadcasting. The entire event was like fighting a fire between sound, promos, time fills and trying to maintain hydration. This was my first live broadcasting event and was I on the run constantly?
The evening set was the event set of the entire weekend. The Julie Ann Band with Bobby Hicks started out the night and the crowd absolutely loved Bobby’s presence and talk about silky smooth fiddling. He’s still got it. They performed for about 45 minutes featuring Bobby’s talents and we all were observing a living legend standing, living and breathing the prettiest sounds an instrument could possibly make.
Darin & Brooke Aldridge were up again and Brooke had on a beautiful red dress Darin had bought her for a Valentines gift and Darin wore a red tie to coordinate. Brooke and Darin were on fire with gospel tunes and seemed to light up the room with the sweet comments to and about each other. This my friends seems to be a very sweet marriage not to mention the sounds they were able to enhance showing their love for one another. I look for a quick climb on the charts with this group. I will probably purchase every project they have available and all future projects will be included on my playlists for my weekly show. Yes folks, I was that impressed.
After a brief sound check, Lonesome River Band cranked up and they started this set hot. Sammy was much more energized and Brandon’s voice was like a combination of George Jones and George Strait with a little Alan Jackson mixed in. These boys came back hot. They cranked out some of the older LRB favorites and they were awesome. Look for Brandon to break out as one of the best male bluegrass vocalists of the year. He also has a solo project I purchased that is superb.
The Steep Canyon Rangers were back again and took off solid and then the afterburners kicked in. This band is so hot I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Considering the level of talent that had been on this stage, this band was the ticket and delivered the most impact of any the entire weekend. I placed an order this morning for every CD they have to offer. The power was infectious from the shape these boys were in musically and no one could top their exceptional performance this night.
Daily and Vincent were back up next and played several Statler Brothers tunes off their new project and also played and sang a memorable tune in honor of the Cathedral’s George Yonce called “Supper Time”. It featured the new bass singer and the vocals were tremendous. This set also contained a long humorous skit by Mr. Patterson, singer and mando stroker for D & V and the crowd loved it. The singers came down into the audience and sang some acapella tunes which D & V have become famous for in a hurry.
The final act of the night may have turned out to be the most memorable due to the names on stage. The Tony Rice Unit included such greats as Josh Williams, Barry Bales, Wyatt Rice, Rob Ickes and Ricky Simkins. Cold start and it started warming and warming and before long the blend got as smooth as a fine day at the beach. Tony spoke to the crowd with authority and even expressed his political feelings and the folks respected his comments with a standing ovation. What a living legend to experience the evening with. The group completed a fabulous set and the audience was not satisfied. Literally applauding non-stop until Tony and the boys came back for an encore. And they did. I think if the band could have played till 2:00 in the morning they would have had an audience.
In conclusion, this was the most talent I’ve ever experienced in two days. A special thanks to Milton Harkey and my close friends Linda Wright, Doug and Bill McDonald for all the support and consideration they gave me during the live broadcast of the 15th annual First Class Blue Grass Event and of course the WWB for giving me an opportunity of a lifetime to be a DJ for THE BEST online radio station in the world.

Barry Scott & Second Wind

2010-01-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

The artists I have chosen this week to run my chomps on is a group of artists and their first release " In God's Hands " by Barry Scott & Second Wind.

I had the fortunate opportunity this fall to see these guys perform and do a shake and howdy after their show and the performance was short of magnificent. Even with Barry having some throat issues he made it through the night which showcased his professionalism and his desire to endure and please the crowd. The groups harmonies were crisp and well defined and were just as perfect as the recording. I didn't purchase a copy of their CD that night due to hamming it up with the guys after the show taking pics and jawing in the lobby of the theater. Time got away from me that night and after a few months had gone by I realized a couple things. One was I missed the chance to buy the CD and the second was how impressed I was after the show how Barry stayed and talked about anything and everything until I got my fill and didn't blow me off.

About a month later, a facebook chat with the dobro picker Travis Houck led to me finally hooking up with a copy of the CD and I am enjoying it more and more everyday and will be plugging it and this group on a regular basis on my new radio show. If you like great harmonies and pick'n you'll love " In God's Hands "

I've read that these guys are up for accolades' and awards for their efforts on this project and deservedly so. I'm sending Travis a special thanks and to Barry and all the guys I see nothing but success and happy listeners of all that lend an ear to your music.
Be safe and we'll see you'all down the road~

Song Writer Larry Wayne Clark

2010-01-01T11:09:00.000-08:00

This is an individual I met on facebook just today. I listened to every song he has posted on myspace and was very impressed. Larry expresses himself mainly as a song writer but has publisher, journalist and producer in his personal description. He appears to be a Nashvillion and
has another home in Ontario. Larry exhibits a broad range of influences from Irving Berlin to John Prine to only mention a couple.
My favorite pick he has posted for listening was "Something Worth Praying For" performed by
Shawn Dodd. This was my favorite but they were all very good.
This ain't just any ole song writer folks. He's had some very well respected and successful artists record his work and from the looks of things will continue to do so. I have no doubt you'll want to check out his web-site www.larrywayneclark.com and hear some great music and enjoy some tremendous in site to his work.
Thanks Larry and keep the music going for our listening pleasure~

Welcome To My Blog

2009-12-23T08:11:00.000-08:00

This is an introduction to my new weekly blog that will be informative and possibly entertaining.
It's going to include historical facts including musicians, writers and performers of the past and present. It will also include my travel and pictorial information of shows, festivals and events including promoting my new radio show on worldwidebluegrass.com~
The blog will be interactive and give you an opportunity to voice your opinion and enable you to offer your input to the stories and featured artists posted.
Suggested subjects are welcomed and will be appreciated and creative suggestions of how to improve the format is welcome as well.
My Grass is SO blue and Merry Christmas to all.