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MerleFest with Nate Smith, Marty Stuart, and more

Apr 28, 2023  ·  Wilkes Community College, Wilkesboro, NC Wilkes Community College, Wilkesboro, NC

MerleFest
Apr 28
MerleFest
Past Concert

LineUp

Ali McGuirk's album "Til It’s Gone" blends soul, rock, and roots. Co-produced with Jonah Tolchin, it features legends like Fred Tackett and Larry Goldings. McGuirk's bold voice shines on introspective and justice-driven tracks.
Country Music Hall of Famer Marty Stuart, born in Philadelphia, MS, is a five-time Grammy winner known for his cosmic country style. He began in Lester Flatt's band and played with Johnny Cash. With 20+ albums, he's achieved platinum sales and numerous awards, including the AMA Lifetime Achievement.
Lainey Wilson, a celebrated country artist from Louisiana, won CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year, and a Grammy for Best Country Album. Known for hits like “Heart Like A Truck” and collaborations with Cole Swindell and HARDY, she's also an actress, appearing on Yellowstone. Recently inducted into the Grand Ole Opry, Lainey's storytelling and talent have made her a beloved figure in country music.
Parker McCollum, a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, released "Gold Chain Cowboy" with MCA after his acclaimed EP, "Hollywood Gold." Known for his No.1 hits "Pretty Heart" and "To Be Loved By You," he debuted on late-night TV with Jimmy Kimmel. A committed performer, he sold out over 40 shows in 2021, including venues like the Grand Ole Opry and RODEOHOUSTON. McCollum won the ACM New Male Artist and CMT Breakthrough Video of the Year awards in 2022.
Grammy-winning roots artist Peter Rowan, born in Wayland, MA, is a key figure in progressive bluegrass. Known for guitar, yodeling, and mandolin, he collaborated with Jerry Garcia, David Grisman, and Tony Rice. His bands include Earth Opera and Old & in the Way. Notable solo albums are New Moon Rising and Dust Bowl Children. Rowan's collaborations feature Ricky Skaggs and Gillian Welch, with projects ranging from Tex-Mex to Hawaiian styles.
The Prowlers, known for thrilling performances and storytelling, have toured 29 countries on 5 continents, collaborating with the U.S. State Department and their nonprofit.
Born in Troutman, NC, Jim Lauderdale is a versatile singer/songwriter key to the '90s Americana movement. Known for blending country, pop, rock, blues, and bluegrass, his acclaimed works include "Planet of Love," collaborations with Dr. Ralph Stanley, and hit compositions for stars like George Strait. Lauderdale collaborated with icons such as Dwight Yoakam and Buddy Miller; his prolific career is marked by multiple albums, critical acclaim, and an eclectic style.
Stillhouse Junkies, formed in 2017, blend roots, bluegrass, Texas swing, blues, and rock. Known for their high-energy shows and improvisation, every performance is unique.
Rob Ickes, born in San Francisco, is renowned for his masterful Dobro skills in bluegrass, country, and jazz. A founding member of Blue Highway, he collaborated on Grammy-winning albums with Alison Krauss and others. Ickes formed the jamgrass band Three Ring Circle and co-founded the ResoSummit in Nashville. His successful projects with Trey Hensley include the acclaimed albums World Full of Blues and Living in a Song. Recognized 13 times as best Dobro player by the International Bluegrass Music Association, he has worked with legends like Earl Scruggs and Merle Haggard.
California native and Nashville-based artist Logan Ledger evokes classic country vibes with a smooth voice. Discovered by T-Bone Burnett, he released records with Rounder, including his debut and 2023's Golden State. Collaborating with Shooter Jennings and featuring Erin Rae's cameo, Ledger shines in bluegrass, honky tonk, and Americana with tracks like "Starlight."
The Flamin' Groovies, formed in San Francisco in the late '60s, are known for their love of classic rock & roll and vintage R&B. Their hits include "Teenage Head" and the power pop classic "Shake Some Action." Led primarily by guitarist Cyril Jordan, the band has undergone several lineup changes. They emerged as British Invasion enthusiasts and inspired the punk/new wave scene. After multiple revivals, they released "Fantastic Plastic" in 2017. Collaborations include work with producer Dave Edmunds, and they were covered by Cracker for the "Clueless" soundtrack.
Australian guitarist Nigel Wearne blends blues, jazz, and Americana-noir with influences like Nick Cave. Known for sharp songwriting, he's toured globally and earned multiple award nods.
Alison Brown, born in Hartford, CT, is a celebrated banjoist known for her unique blend of jazz, bluegrass, and global music traditions. A former member of Alison Krauss & Union Station, she co-founded Compass Records. Her Grammy-nominated work includes collaborations with artists like Kronos Quartet and Anat Cohen. Brown, a Harvard alumna, has earned major accolades like the International Bluegrass Music Association's Distinguished Achievement Award. Notable albums include "Simple Pleasures" and "Song of the Banjo," showcasing her innovation in banjo music.
Named after Ukrainian nomads, Scythian delivers a high-energy fusion of Celtic, Eastern European, and Appalachian roots music, creating barn-dance, rock concert vibes.
Yasmin Williams, an innovative guitarist and composer, blends folk traditions with rock and experimental styles. Her album *Acadia* features collaborations with Aoife O'Donovan and Immanuel Wilkins, showcasing her shift to a collaborative artist. Known for her unique creative process, Williams masters multiple instruments, creating intricate yet ethereal soundscapes.
Taylor Rae, born in the USA, is known for her introspective Americana style blending roots-rock, folk, and blues. Her debut, "Mad Twenties," topped the Americana charts with the hit "Home on the Road." She collaborated with Grammy winner Eric Krasno on "The Void," exploring personal themes through a powerful mix of genres.
Kentucky-born Chris Stapleton, a country music star, has won 10 Grammys and holds records at the CMA and ACM Awards. Known for hits from albums like 'Traveller' and 'Starting Over,' he's renowned for his captivating live shows and has collaborated with George Strait.
Born in Seminole, Texas, Tanya Tucker is a modern country legend with 23 Top 40 albums, 56 Top 40 singles, 10 No.1 hits, 2 GRAMMYs, and 2023 Country Music Hall of Fame honor.
Born in Mississippi, Diplo, a 13-time Grammy nominee, rose from Philly clubs to global stardom. Famous for Major Lazer, LSD with Sia & Labrinth, and Silk City with Ronson, he's celebrated for hit "Electricity" and owns labels Mad Decent and Higher Ground.
Niko Moon, from Tyler, Texas, is known for his chart-topping single "Good Time." He has co-written hits for Morgan Wallen and Avicii and co-produced albums for the Zac Brown Band. A SESAC award-winner, Niko lives in Nashville with his family and founded the "Happy Cowboy Foundation."
Country artist Priscilla Block captivates with her unfiltered country pop and southern rock blend, earning acclaim from ACM, CMT, and the NYT. Hits include "Just About Over You" and "You, Me, and Whiskey" with Justin Moore.
Greenville-born Nikki Lane blends vintage country with indie rock in her bold music. Known for albums like *Highway Queen* and songs "Right Time" and "Send the Sun," she's collaborated with Dan Auerbach, Lana Del Rey, and Josh Homme.
Fort Worth, TX native infuses traditional Country with Rock 'n' Roll swagger, influenced by George Strait & Elvis Presley. Acclaimed for hits like "Honky Tonkin’ About," he's performed at The Grand Ole Opry and earned high praise from major media outlets. Known for electrifying shows and strong fanbase.
Riley Green, from Jacksonville, AL, is an acclaimed Country artist known for hits like "There Was This Girl" and "I Wish Grandpas Never Died." Named ACM’s 2020 New Male Artist of the Year, he has toured with Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs. His heartfelt style shines in collaborations with Thomas Rhett and Luke Combs.
Brooks & Dunn, from the USA, boast 20 No. 1 hits since 1991, 2 Grammys, and record sales surpassing any country duo. Known for "Boot Scootin' Boogie" and "My Maria," their "Merle Haggard meets The Rolling Stones" style drove the '90s power-country era. They reunited with Reba McEntire for a praised Vegas residency, and soon, they'll enter the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Corey Kent, from Bixby, OK, is a Platinum-certified country rocker known for his red-dirt style. After losing a publishing deal during the pandemic, he worked on a paving crew, leading to hits like “Wild As Her” and “Something’s Gonna Kill Me.” His album Black Bandana merges rock with country, showcasing his resilience. Songs like “Ain’t Gonna Lie” highlight his authenticity, drawing inspiration from his Texas ranch.
Guitarist Keb' Mo', born Kevin Moore in LA, blends country-blues with soul. Grammy winner known for albums like "TajMo" and "Oklahoma," and collaborations with Taj Mahal.
Nelly, born Cornell Iral Haynes, Jr., is a St. Louis-based rapper known for hits like "Hot in Herre," "Dilemma," and "Shake Ya Tailfeather." With a mix of country and street style, he achieved crossover appeal, earning Grammy awards and six consecutive Top Ten albums. Nelly's collaborations span genres, working with artists like Kelly Rowland, Justin Timberlake, and Tim McGraw. His versatile style led to a country-pop fusion in the 2021 album "Heartland." Well-known for catchy hooks and commercial success, his career includes albums like the diamond-certified "Country Grammar."
Born in Pennsylvania, Gabby Barrett is a multi-platinum Country singer known for hits like "I Hope" and "The Good Ones." Her debut single "I Hope" topped charts, making her the youngest solo female artist with a #1 debut in over 20 years. With over 3 billion global streams, she’s won the Billboard Women in Music 2022’s Rising Star Award, and co-hosted ACM Awards.
Wyoming native Ian Munsick blends heartfelt country and Western style, boasting 900M+ streams, 19 awards, and hits like Gold-certified "Long Live Cowgirls" with Cody Johnson.
Tommy Prine debuted his album "This Far South," co-produced by Ruston Kelly and Gena Johnson, showcasing growth and storytelling. He has opened for Tyler Childers.
Country star Luke Bryan, known for hits like "Crash My Party," has 30 No. 1 hits and 20 billion streams. He’s won 50+ major awards, including Entertainer of the Year.
Country star Tyler Braden from Alabama crafts raw, heartfelt music. Known for hits like "Try Losing One," he's collaborated with Luke Bryan and more. With 630M+ streams, his debut LP "a devil and a prayer" is set to showcase his rock-infused style.
Mary Chapin Carpenter, born in Princeton, NJ, found success in the '80s-'90s country scene with hits like "Down at the Twist and Shout" and "He Thinks He'll Keep Her." Known for her emotionally intelligent songwriting, her album "Come on Come On" sold over two million copies. She won a Grammy for "Shut Up and Kiss Me." Collaborating with artists like Vince Mendoza, Julie Fowlis, and Karine Polwart, she explored personal themes and folk influences, sharing her music via her "Songs from Home" series during the pandemic.
Nashville artist Jackson Dean, from Maryland, is known for his gravel-toned vocals, intentional songwriting, and captivating live shows. His debut album "Greenbroke" featured the hit single "Don't Come Lookin'," making him the youngest solo male Country artist to top the charts. He tours with stars like Lainey Wilson, Toby Keith, and Miranda Lambert. His latest single is "Heavens To Betsy."
ZZ Top formed in 1969 Houston, Texas, are known for blues boogie rock, evolving into MTV stars in the '80s. Hits include "La Grange," "Legs," and "Sharp Dressed Man." Despite lineup changes, the band still tours and is inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Bailey Zimmerman, a platinum-certified country music star, famed for his powerful storytelling and dynamic style. Known for hits like "Fall In Love" and "Rock And A Hard Place," his debut LP, Religiously. The Album., set streaming records and won multiple awards.
Atlanta native Lily Rose gained fame with her viral country hit "Villain." Known for her raw storytelling, she's toured with Sam Hunt and opened for Shania Twain. Lily collaborated with Diplo on "Sad in the Summer" and appeared on The Voice and Good Morning America. She won GLAAD's Outstanding Breakthrough Artist Award in 2022 and was nominated for ACM New Female Artist of the Year. Married her wife, Daira, in 2023.
Sierra Ferrell, a celebrated West Virginia-born roots musician, is known for her eclectic style, acclaimed debut 'Long Time Coming,' and winning Emerging Act at the Americana Honors & Awards. Collaborating with artists like Margo Price and Old Crow Medicine Show, her album 'Trail Of Flowers' showcases her storytelling with producers Eddie Spear and Gary Paczosa.
Kane Brown, hailed as "the future of Country," is a 5X AMA winner known for hits like "Worldwide Beautiful" and "What Ifs." He made history by topping all 5 Billboard Country charts simultaneously and has collaborated with artists such as Chris Young and H.E.R. His album "Experiment" debuted No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a first for a male country artist in over 24 years.
The Avett Brothers, from North Carolina, gained fame with "I And Love And You" in 2009. Hits like "True Sadness" earned GRAMMY® nominations and topped charts, while they secured spots in the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Collaborated with Judd Apatow for a documentary. Known for Americana and folk-rock styles and their charitable efforts, including a $325k Hurricane Florence benefit.
Virginia-born Morgan Wade burst onto the country scene with her raw, honest debut album "Reckless," leading with the hit single "Wilder Days." Known for her powerful voice and poignant songwriting, she's captivated audiences on her sold-out tour. Wade's impressive rise includes nominations for ACM New Female Artist and CMT Breakthrough Female Video of the Year.
BRELAND, born in New Jersey, is a singer/songwriter/producer known for his Hip-Hop/Country blend. His platinum hit "My Truck" topped Spotify's Global Viral 50. He has over 1 billion streams and notable collaborations with Sam Hunt, Lady A, Thomas Rhett, Keith Urban, and Mickey Guyton. He's been acclaimed for evolving country music and featured on major TV shows like GMA, The Voice, and The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Donna The Buffalo blends folk-rock and roots music, known for festival gigs at Bonnaroo and Newport. They've backed artists like The Avett Brothers and toured with legends like Los Lobos, plus started the Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival.
Melissa Etheridge, born in the U.S., stormed onto the rock scene with her 1988 debut. Known for hits like "I'm the Only One" and "Come to My Window," she won two Grammys. Her song "I Need to Wake Up" earned an Oscar. Overcoming breast cancer in 2004, she launched Etheridge TV in 2020. In 2022, her one-woman show “My Window” made a sold-out premiere.
49 Winchester, from Castlewood, Virginia, blends country, Americana, and rock. Known for collaborating with Stewart Myers and featuring the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, they’ve earned widespread acclaim. Their fifth album, "Leavin’ This Holler," showcases their signature sound and emotional depth.
The Brothers Comatose, a San Francisco-based bluegrass band founded by brothers Ben and Alex Morrison, blend Americana, folk, and traditional bluegrass with infectious energy. Known for tight harmonies, virtuosic string play, and lively performances, they welcomed multi-instrumentalist Addie Levy in 2024, adding depth and dynamism. Their storytelling spans love, loss, and adventure.
Jon Pardi, born in Dixon, California, is known for his hit country songs "Head Over Boots" and "Dirt on My Boots." Combining traditional country sounds with modern flair, he's achieved several chart-topping albums including California Sunrise and Heartache Medication. Pardi's style reflects influences like George Strait and George Jones, and he has collaborated with artists such as Luke Bryan.
Della Mae is a GRAMMY-nominated all-woman string band led by Celia Woodsmith and Kimber Ludiker. Known for engaging roots music, they tour globally, spreading peace.
Ryan Bingham, born in Hobbs, NM, brings a fusion of folk, rock, and country influenced by his life in the West Texas oil fields and diverse cultures. Known for his weathered vocals, he's defied easy classification since "Mescalito." Bingham won an Oscar and Grammy for "The Weary Kind" from "Crazy Heart." His sixth album, "American Love Song," unites his influences into a celebrated work.
Warner Records' Warren Zeiders, a Nashville headliner since 2022, boasts over 1.9B streams and hits like "Ride The Lightning" and "Pretty Little Poison." He's a Platinum-certified artist and topped country charts, opening for Jelly Roll in 2024.
Country singer Kameron Marlowe from Kannapolis, NC, gained fame on NBC's The Voice. Known for hits like "Giving You Up," he signed with Columbia Nashville and released "We Were Cowboys." Influenced by Brooks & Dunn and George Strait.
Old Dominion, known for their skyscraping anthems, clever lyrics, and hook-heavy sound, have notched nine No. 1 singles, earned multiple Platinum certifications, and are 7x ACM and 6x CMA Group of the Year winners, celebrated for their electrifying live shows.
Restless Road, a country band praised for its powerhouse harmonies and soul-baring lyrics, boasts popular tracks like “Growing Old With You” and has over 200 million streams. The trio, acclaimed by Billboard and more, gained fame with a performance on ABC’s The Bachelor.
Calgary-born Bella White blends fresh country/folk with deep bluegrass roots. Known for her debut album "Just Like Leaving," she embraces musical freedom, transcending traditional styles as a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.
North Carolina-based Parmalee, renowned for hits like "Carolina," "Just the Way," and "Take My Name," boasts five #1 singles and over 1 billion streams. This chart-topping band, featuring brothers Matt and Scott Thomas, cousin Barry Knox, and friend Josh McSwain, is a staple on Country Radio.
Sammy Kershaw, born in Kaplan, Louisiana, is a 1990s country singer known for modernizing honky tonk with a soft rock touch. Hits include "Cadillac Style" and "She Don't Know She's Beautiful." Kershaw, related to Cajun fiddler Doug Kershaw, overcame personal struggles to secure a record deal with Mercury in 1990. His platinum albums spawned numerous Top Ten hits. Collaborated with George Jones and Lorrie Morgan. He explored politics in Louisiana and returned to music with "Swamp Poppin'" in 2017, celebrating his R&B roots.
Maren Morris, from Arlington, Texas, blends country, pop, and R&B. Known for hits like "My Church" and "The Middle," she has collaborations with Zedd and Brandi Carlile. Her debut, Hero, topped country charts, and she won a Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance. Part of the supergroup The Highwomen, she continues to evolve creatively with releases like 2022's Humble Quest and her pop EPs.
Dobro master Jerry Douglas, a 15-time GRAMMY winner, revolutionized resonator guitar music, blending country, bluegrass, rock, jazz, and more. Known as “Dobro's matchless contemporary master” by The New York Times, he leads The Jerry Douglas Band and The Earls of Leicester and collaborates with stars like Garth Brooks and Paul Simon. He's co-music director of BBC's Transatlantic Sessions and a three-time CMA Musician of the Year.
GRAMMY winner & EMMY nominee Dom Flemons, "The American Songster," spans 100+ years of music. Known for "Black Cowboys," co-founded Carolina Chocolate Drops. Featured at the Grand Ole Opry & Country Music Hall of Fame.
Ben Chapman, from LaFayette, GA, blends southern-funk jam-band country in his Anderson East-produced album. He's worked with Flatland Cavalry and hosts Peach Jam in Nashville.
Arizona-born singer/songwriter Avery Anna, known for her soulful lyricism, gained fame with her viral hit "Narcissist." Her debut album "Breakup Over Breakfast" showcases her raw emotional depth, earning media praise. Avery collaborated with Sam Barber on the chart-rising duet "Indigo" and was nominated for Breakthrough Artist at the 2023 CMT Awards. With over 500 million streams, she's an emerging force in music, touring with Luke Bryan.
Trixie Mattel, born Brian Michael Firkus, is a celebrated American drag queen and singer known for winning "RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars" season 3. His music tops Billboard's Heatseekers chart, and he co-hosts YouTube shows "UNHhhh" with Katya. Trixie stars in the documentary "Moving Parts," founded Trixie Cosmetics, and released acclaimed albums. He co-authored the NYT bestseller "Trixie and Katya's Guide to Modern Womanhood" and hosts "The Bald And The Beautiful" podcast.
Turnpike Troubadours, from Oklahoma, blend Woody Guthrie's folk and Waylon Jennings' honky tonk with bluegrass and Cajun. Popular for "Goodbye Normal Street," they hit country and rock charts, and sold out arenas. After a hiatus, they returned with 2023's "A Cat in the Rain," produced by Shooter Jennings. They’ve shared the stage with Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town.
AJ Lee & Blue Summit, based in Santa Cruz, are an award-winning bluegrass band known for their unique blend of country soul and Americana. Their "City of Glass" album showcases their originality and dedication to their Californian roots, offering a fresh take on the genre.
American Aquarium, NC-born, crafts gritty country-rock. Known for introspective lyrics & intense style, they explore deep themes like Southern identity & rights.
Cooper Alan, born in Winston-Salem, NC, is a rising country music star known for his fearless style and innovative mix of genres. With over 225 million streams and a massive online following, he's gained accolades like Pandora’s 2024 Ten Artist To Watch. His hit single "Take Forever" topped Sirius XM charts, and his performances are renowned for energy and humor.
Nick Shoulders blends punk's defiance with gritty country music, rooted in his family's vocal traditions. Known for his authentic, joyful style, he often collaborates with influences like Hazel Dickens.
Valerie June, known for her distinctive voice and style, is a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter from Tennessee. She blends love and joy in her music, with albums like "Pushin’ Against A Stone" and "The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers." Praised by Bob Dylan, she has collaborated with M. Ward, The Blind Boys of Alabama, and Norah Jones. Her songs resonate with emotional honesty and optimism.
Tulsa-born artist Kaitlin Butts embraces country music's theatricality with emotional and humorous storytelling. Her soulful songwriting has captivated audiences on tours with Dierks Bentley and Turnpike Troubadours. Known for songs tackling addiction and trauma, her latest release "Hunt Me Down" shifts to a lighter, stage-like tone. Produced by Oran Thornton, it reflects her vibrant style and truth-filled performances.
The Local Honeys, from Kentucky, blend storytelling with authentic Appalachian music. Their debut album, produced by Jesse Wells, features a deep, moody sound.
Nate Smith, from Nashville, is known for his powerhouse tenor and rapid rise in country music. With hits like "Whiskey on You" and "World on Fire," he has scored multiple No. 1s, earned over 1.6 billion streams, and received accolades like ACM New Male Artist and Billboard's Rookie of the Year. His debut album hit the Billboard Country Top 10.

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