The 2015 line-up promises to be one of the best in recent years. In addition to Emmy Lou Harris and Rodney Crowell, this year’s lineup includes Brandi Carlile, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Trampled By Turtles, Leftover Salmon, Drive-By Truckers, Lord Huron, Shovels and Rope, Greensky Bluegrass, First Aid Kit, Keller Williams, Sam Bush Band, The Devil Makes Three, Jerry Douglas presents the Earls of Leicester, Peter Rowan’s Twang ‘An Groove, Nicki Bluhm and the Gramblers, Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds, Swampcandy, Annabelle’s Curse and American Aquarium. Other acts just announced this week include the Black Lillies, a group richly steeped in mountain tradition, who will be making their first FloydFest appearance. Other regional stand-outs include Time Sawyer, Chamomile & Whiskey, Red Sammy, Massive Grass, Hard Swimmin’ Fish and Look Homeward.

Among the many attributes that make FloydFest unique is that fans get to pick some of the artists who will perform.

During the May “Band on Fire” series, bands will try to win over fans to earn a spot in an onsite final performance battle in June, the winner of which will receive the coveted opening performance spot for headliners Harris and Crowell. “The Band on Fire” series takes place on Saturday nights in May at The Phoenix, a new music venue in historic downtown Roanoke, Va., according to a festival press release.

Never been to FloydFest and want to know more? Here’s a story I wrote about the festival for the Danville Register and Bee about the FloydFest 2013.