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MerleFest with Nate Smith, Marty Stuart, and more

Apr 28, 2023 at 12:59 PM and 1:00 PM  ·  Wilkes Community College, Wilkesboro, NC Wilkes Community College, Wilkesboro, NC

MerleFest
Apr 28
MerleFest
Past Concert

LineUp

Formed in 2014 in the Smoky Mountains, The Po' Ramblin’ Boys blend traditional bluegrass with a fresh, authentic style, gaining acclaim from rural festivals to European rock clubs.
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, Grammy-winning country star from Louisiana, boasts 9 CMA and 16 ACM wins, hit songs like “Heart Like A Truck,” collabs with Reba and Post Malone, and Grand Ole Opry membership.
Texas-born country star Parker McCollum is a multi-instrumentalist known for hits like “Pretty Heart” and “Handle On You.” He’s won 2 ACMs, a CMT Award, toured widely, and collaborated with George Strait and Cody Johnson.
Stillhouse Junkies blend roots, bluegrass, Texas swing, blues, and rock with vibrant, improvised shows. Since 2017, the trio crafts unique, high-energy originals.
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.
Nigel Wearne, from Gunditjmara country, blends blues, jazz & Americana-noir. Acclaimed guitarist, praised for albums like *Black Crow*, toured globally, and inspired by Nick Cave.
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.
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.
Kentucky-born Chris Stapleton is an acclaimed country artist, 11x Grammy winner known for hits like “It Takes A Woman,” praised for his powerful voice and electric live shows.
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.
Texas-born Niko Moon is a chart-topping country artist known for hits like "Good Time." A songwriter for stars like Morgan Wallen and Avicii, he's also co-produced Zac Brown Band albums.
Priscilla Block, a bold country singer known for unfiltered storytelling, hit No. 1 with “You, Me, And Whiskey” (duet with Justin Moore) and went platinum with “Just About Over You.”
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’s Drake Milligan blends classic country and rock ’n’ roll. His debut hit #1 on charts, earned praise, performed on big stages, and toured with top stars.
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.
Elle King is a Grammy-nominated pop and country sensation from the U.S., known for her bold style and hits like "Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home)" with Miranda Lambert. She is a record-setter, being the first female artist with No. 1 singles on four radio formats. Her debut song, "Ex's & Oh's," went 4x platinum and earned two Grammy nominations.
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, a proud husband and father from the Red Dirt country scene, is a Triple-Platinum, No. 1 country-rock artist known for “Wild As Her.” He’s toured with Jason Aldean and Morgan Wallen.
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."
Wyoming native Ian Munsick, known for his authentic Western country style, boasts 1B+ streams, 19 awards, hits like “Long Live Cowgirls,” and tours with Morgan Wallen.
Luke Bryan, a top country artist, has 26.6B streams, 31 #1 singles, and 50+ major awards, including 5 Entertainer of the Year titles and the ACM Album of the Decade.
Alabama-born, Nashville-based country singer-songwriter known for soulful voice, electric riffs, and honest storytelling. Hit songs include "Try Losing One." Collaborated with Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley, and more. Gold-certified with 765M+ streams and sold-out shows.
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.
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 roots band founded by Ben and Alex Morrison, blend old-school string band sounds with rock. Known for rich harmonies, lively shows, and hits from six albums, they've toured with Lake Street Dive and played major festivals.
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.
Bingham is a Grammy, Oscar, and Golden Globe-winning singer-songwriter and actor known for his raw voice and storytelling. His music blends folk, blues, country, and rock.
Pennsylvania-born Warner Records artist Warren Zeiders is a rising Country star known for his hit “Pretty Little Poison,” CMT Award, 3.6B+ streams, and major TV appearances.
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.
Greenville, SC native Marcus King blends blues, rock, and soul, known for GRAMMY®-nominated *El Dorado* and collaborations with Noah Cyrus and Billy Strings.
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, a LaFayette, Ga. native, blends southern-funk jam country. His songs recorded by Muscadine Bloodline, Brent Cobb & Shelby Lynne. Hosts Nashville’s Peach Jam.
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.
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, from Winston-Salem, NC, blends country, rock, pop, and hip-hop with witty, heartfelt songs. He’s known for “Take Forever,” 18M+ fans, viral hits & sold-out tours.
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 Kaitlin Butts blends theatrical country with soulful, witty storytelling. Nominated for 2024 Americana Emerging Act, she’s toured with Dierks Bentley and Lainey Wilson.
The Local Honeys, from Kentucky, blend storytelling with authentic Appalachian music. Their debut album, produced by Jesse Wells, features a deep, moody sound.
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.
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.
Chicago-based bluegrass quartet The Prowlers blend tradition and innovation with storytelling, touring 29 countries, partnering with the U.S. State Dept, and fostering global cultural ties.
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.
Boston-born Lori McKenna is a celebrated Nashville songwriter known for hits like Tim McGraw’s "Humble and Kind" and Little Big Town’s "Girl Crush," blending heartfelt country and folk.

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