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Tag Archives: The Avett Brothers


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MerleFest unveils initial April 29-May 2, 2027, lineup featuring The Avett Brothers, Gilliam Welch & David Rawlings, Toy Factory Project, Del McCoury@88, Wynonna Judd, Sam Bush, Scythian, Mason Via and many more

From the good folks over at MerleFest:

MerleFest, presented by Window World, has unveiled lineup details for its 2027 event, taking place over four unforgettable days from April 29–May 2 on the campus of Wilkes Community College.

Acclaimed Americana duo Gillian Welch & David Rawlings are set to return, alongside Southern rock supergroup Toy Factory Project, North Carolina’s marquee folk-rock outfit The Avett Brothers and country music queen Wynonna Judd.

Also slated for the festival’s 39th installment is a special MerleFest “Delebration,” Del McCoury@88, honoring the bluegrass patriarch with Del McCoury & The Travelin’ McCourys. The lineup also features legacy pickers Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, The Earls of Leicester, and Alison Brown, along with a parade of on-the-rise ensembles including Mountain Grass Unit, Magoo, The Brudi Brothers and more.

Each year, MerleFest honors the legacy of North Carolina music legends Doc and Merle Watson while celebrating and uplifting the next generation of talent. Its “traditional plus” framework invites curiosity and exploration among performers and attendees alike, creating a festival experience that is always fresh while preserving the soul of what makes MerleFest such a cherished annual tradition. For this year’s Late Night Jam, The Travelin’ McCourys present The Grateful Ball. The Late Night Jam continues to foster the spirit of collaboration, spontaneity, and shared musical discovery that has long defined the MerleFest experience. This separately-ticketed, after-hours event is the ideal nightcap for those looking to witness a night of groundbreaking, “only at MerleFest” moments. Visit merlefest.org/purchase for details and to stay tuned for guest announcements.

MerleFest 2027 will welcome Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Toy Factory Project, The Avett Brothers, Wynonna Judd, Del McCoury@88 – a MerleFest “Delebration,” Mountain Grass Unit, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, The Earls of Leicester, Peter Rowan & The Walls of Time Band, Alison Brown, Magoo, The Brudi Brothers, Jake Shimabukuro, Chatham Rabbits, Chatham County Line, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Altan, Mason Via, Tray Wellington, Slap Dragon, Larry & Joe, Jim Avett, Rev. Robert Jones, Scythian, Donna The Buffalo, Jim Lauderdale, Kruger Brothers, The Waybacks, Presley Barker, Andy May, Banknotes, Carol Rifkin, Charles Welch, The InterACTive Theatre of Jef, Jack Lawrence, Jeff Little Trio, Joe Smothers, Josh Goforth, The Knackered Ramblers, Laura Boosinger, The Local Boys, Mark Bumgarner, Mitch Greenhill & Mitch’s Kitchen, Pete Wernick, T Michael Coleman, Tony Williamson, and Wayne Henderson, with additional artists to be announced in the coming weeks.

The WCC Foundation is excited to continue the Silent Auction, featuring a variety of exciting, high-quality items and the convenience of online bidding. Online bidding opens April 15, 2027! Proceeds support the SAGE (Supporting Academic Goals for Education) First Year Experience program. Stay tuned for more details at merlefest.org/silent-auction.

Mega Raffle is back! We’re excited to welcome back the Mega Raffle, with over $120,000 in cash and prizes to be awarded! Tickets go on sale February 8, 2027, and you do not have to be present to win. Proceeds support the SAGE (Supporting Academic Goals for Education) First Year Experience program. Stay tuned for more details at merlefest.org/silent-auction.

MerleFest 2027 tickets are available now. For general admission passes, as well as covered patio seating, reserved seating, camping, parking, and more, please visit merlefest.org/purchase.
MerleFest volunteer applications are now open. As a volunteer, participants will receive free entry to the festival for the entire day of their shift, free parking and shuttle, and 10% discount at River’s Edge Campground. Most importantly, volunteers will be supporting a major fundraiser for the students of Wilkes Community College. Please visit merlefest.org/volunteer to sign up now before the April 10, 2027, deadline.

Apply to be a MerleFest vendor! MerleFest Shoppes and Heritage Craft Vendors are thoughtfully chosen to provide a variety of unique, high-quality goods for every MerleFest fan. Vendor fees include tent, fire extinguisher, tables, chairs, nighttime lighting, 24-hour security, general admission passes, and on-campus parking. It’s a great opportunity with incredible value! Please visit merlefest.org/vendors to apply now before the application window closes on Jan. 15, 2027.

Apply to be a MerleFest food vendor! MerleFest is now accepting applications for food vendors! A limited number of food vendors will be featured in the Shoppes at MerleFest, with vendors carefully selected to offer fans top-quality food and service. Ideal applicants will have a diverse menu that includes traditional items, along with vegetarian, vegan, and/or gluten-free options. Please visit merlefest.org/vendors to apply now before the application window closes on Dec. 1, 2026.

About MerleFest
MerleFest, presented by Window World, was founded in 1988 as a fundraiser for the Garden of the Senses at Wilkes Community College to memorialize world-renowned flatpicker Doc Watson’s late son, Eddy Merle Watson. MerleFest is a celebration of “traditional plus” music, a unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region, including old-time, classic country, bluegrass, folk and gospel, and blues, and expanded to include Americana, classic rock, and many other styles. The festival hosts a diverse mix of artists on its 12 stages during the course of the multi-day event. MerleFest is the primary fundraiser for the WCC Foundation, funding scholarships, capital projects, and other educational needs.


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Earl Scruggs Music Festival returns Labor Day Weekend 2026 with The Avett Brothers, Greensky Bluegrass, The Del McCoury Bank, Bela Fleck, Jerry Douglas, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage

It’s almost time! Named the IBMA’s 2025 Event of the Year, Earl Scruggs Music Festival returns Labor Day Weekend to Tryon International in Mill Spring, North Carolina, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains just outside Asheville. Join us for performances by The Avett Brothers, Greensky Bluegrass, The Del McCoury Band, Béla Fleck: My Bluegrass Heart, and more as we honor the enduring legacy of Earl Scruggs & celebrate Appalachian culture.

For tickets and more information, visit https://www.earlscruggsmusicfest.com/2026tickets


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MerleFest 2025 highlights include Bonnie Raitt, The Avett Brothers, The Dead South, Watchhouse, Wyatt Flores, Sam Bush’s Late Night Jam and a visit from N.C. Gov. Josh Stein

Mama & The Ruckus wins 10th annual band competition

From the good folks at MerleFest:

MerleFest 2025, presented by North Wilksboro-based Window World, wrapped up its 37th annual celebration with a romp-roaring tribute to the music and community that folk icon Doc Watson championed throughout his life.

Over the course of four vibrant days, nearly 100 acts ranging from rising stars to seasoned legends graced a dozen stages across the campus of Wilkes Community College, drawing thousands to the rolling hills that canvas the region.

Founded in 1988, MerleFest has grown into not only a musical cornerstone of North Carolina but also a vital economic engine for the area, fueling scholarships, capital improvements, and educational programs throughout the community. The 2025 edition continued that legacy, blending genre-defying performances with a deep sense of purpose rooted in place and people.

On Saturday, MerleFest welcomed a special guest: North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein, who toured the Wilkes Community College campus and took in the sights and sounds of the festival. Later that evening,Stein introduced North Carolina’s own The Avett Brothers ahead of their headlining set on the Watson Stage, highlighting the festival’s important role in supporting education and cultural life in the region.

“MerleFest is special to so many people, including my family and me,” said Stein. “It was great to enjoy the weekend with so many North Carolina music fans, and I appreciate the hardworking people who make it all happen year after year.”

Reflecting on this year’s event, Festival Director Wes Whitson shared, “What really stood out to me this year was the sense of connection. You could feel it everywhere—between the artists and the crowds, among the volunteers, and even in the little moments, like folks swapping stories in the food lines. MerleFest has always been about more than just the music, and this year really drove that home. I’m especially proud that the festival continues to support the mission of Wilkes Community College, which plays such an important role in our region. I’m so grateful to everyone who helped make it happen and kept the spirit of the festival alive. It’s quite possible we broke some attendance records this year. We could not be more appreciative of our fans who showed up in a really big way each day of the festival.”

See below for a day-by-day highlight reel of MerleFest 2025’s noteworthy moments:

Thursday: MerleFest weekend kicked off with returning local artist Presley Barker, whose impressive guitar work and heartfelt lyrics welcomed festivalgoers. Woody Platt and the Bluegrass Gentlemen followed with a masterclass in bluegrass tradition, leading into a powerful, blues-tinged set from The SteelDrivers. Wyatt Flores kept the energy high with his soulful songwriting and magnetic presence. Brent Cobb brought laid-back Southern rock vibes to the Cabin Stage, before The Dead South drew a massive crowd with their high-energy, foot-stomping bluegrass. The evening closed on the Dance Stage with Donna the Buffalo’s infectious rhythms, kicking off the weekend with heart, energy, and the signature sense of community only MerleFest can deliver.

Friday: Jim Lauderdale and The Gamechangers opened the day with a soulful set on the Creekside Stage, setting the tone for a memorable Friday. Big Richard brought powerhouse vocals and fierce energy to the Americana Stage, followed by Tony Trischka’s EarlJam, who took fans on a journey through bluegrass history. The War and Treaty delivered an emotionally charged Watson Stage performance, leading into a stunning set from I’m With Her. Friday night belonged to Bonnie Raitt, who captivated with her iconic slide guitar and timeless hits, before the tradition of the Late Night Jam, hosted by Sam Bush, brought a star-studded roster of pickers together for an unforgettable session.

Saturday: Saturday opened with Denitia’s soulful country sounds on the Hillside Stage, followed by the announcement of Band Competition winners Mama & The Ruckus. Alison Brown delivered a masterful blend of bluegrass, folk, and storytelling, and The Fretliners brought authentic, Colorado-infused roots to the Traditional Stage. Christina Vane stormed the Dance Stage with her roots-driven sound, while The Waybacks’ annual “Album Hour” reimagined The Rolling Stones’ Let it Bleed, electrifying the crowd. As evening set in, Sam Bush lit up the Watson Stage, paving the way for The Avett Brothers’ high-energy, heartfelt performance. Scythian closed the night with a raucous, high-octane dance party on the Dance Stage.

Sunday: The festival’s final day began with a family-friendly sing-along led by Josh Goforth and Laura Boosinger. The Jeff Little Trio honored Doc Watson with heartfelt gospel songs at Creekside, followed by The Secret Sisters’ haunting harmonies on the Hillside Stage. Leftover Salmon got the Watson Stage crowd moving with their jam-infused bluegrass, while Wayne Henderson & Friends showcased Appalachian roots mastery at the Traditional Stage. Watchhouse closed out MerleFest 2025 with a breathtaking, soul-stirring set, wrapping up a weekend full of music, community, and unforgettable memories.

As MerleFest 2025 comes to a close, excitement is already building for next year’s return to Wilkes Community College, set for April 23-26, 2026. Stay tuned for ticket details and the full lineup announcement coming soon.
About MerleFest
MerleFest, presented by Window World, was founded in 1988 as a fundraiser for the Garden of the Senses at Wilkes Community College to memorialize world-renowned flatpicker Doc Watson’s late son, Eddy Merle Watson. MerleFest is a celebration of “traditional plus” music, a unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region, including old-time, classic country, bluegrass, folk and gospel, and blues, and expanded to include Americana, classic rock, and many other styles. The festival hosts a diverse mix of artists on its 12 stages during the course of the multi-day event. MerleFest is the primary fundraiser for the WCC Foundation, funding scholarships, capital projects, and other educational needs.


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Lovin’ Life Music Fest featuring The Avett Brothers, Post Malone, Stevie Nicks, Noah Kahan is coming to Uptown Charlotte on May 3-5

From the good folks at the new Lovin’ Life Music Festival:

Hey there music lovers, are you ready to sing along to some electrifying music? Well, hold onto your hats because the Lovin’ Life Music Fest is coming to Uptown Charlotte May 3-5, 2024, and it’s bringing the house down with an epic lineup that will blow your mind!

Charlotte-based Southern Entertainment, the brilliant minds behind this sensational festival, have just dropped the bombshell of all bombshells by revealing the star-studded roster of artists who will grace the stages of this inaugural event.

Picture this: under the dazzling lights of Uptown Charlotte, you’ll be swaying to the soulful melodies of Post Malone, getting lost in the timeless classics of Stevie Nicks, and feeling the vibes with Noah Kahan. But wait, there’s more! Prepare to be serenaded by the enchanting sounds of Maggie Rogers, get pumped up with The Chainsmokers, and get down with Charlotte’s very own DaBaby. And that’s just the tip of the musical iceberg!

Joining these headliners are a plethora of sensational acts spanning various genres and generations. From the heartfelt harmonies of The Avett Brothers to the infectious energy of The Fray, from the funky grooves of Ripe to the soulful stylings of Allen Stone, there’s something for everyone at Lovin’ Life Music Fest.

But let’s not forget about our homegrown talent! The QC Local Stage will be buzzing with the electrifying performances of Charlotte’s very own musical prodigies, including Sweet Spine, Modern Alibi, Fox N’ Vead, and many more. Get ready to show them some love and support as they take center stage and rock your world!

And hey, it’s not just about the music at Lovin’ Life. We’re talking about a celebration of arts, culture, and cuisine that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving for more. With ticket sales skyrocketing and sponsors clamoring to be a part of this musical extravaganza, it’s safe to say that Charlotte is on its way to becoming the next big Music City!

So mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready for the ultimate music experience of a lifetime at Lovin’ Life Music Fest. For more information about the lineup drop, click here.

Let’s jam, Charlotte! See you at the festival!


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Scythian, David Childers to play benefit for Water For People at Lincoln Theatre in downtown Raleigh on Aug. 4

Celtic rock band Scythian and folk singer-songwriter David Childers have announced they will perform on Saturday, Aug. 4, in downtown Raleigh’s the Lincoln Theatre at a benefit concert for Water For People.
Doors for this all-ages show will open at 5 p.m. and the music starts at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $50.
Water for People is a non-profit dedicated to providing water and wastewater education, training, and service in an effort to protect public health and the environment.

“We are always excited to come back to North Carolina and Raleigh in particular hold a lot of great memories for us with IMBA and the First Night Raleigh show we’ve played,” explains one of Scythian’s frontmen Danylo Fedoryka (vocals, guitar, accordion).

“To link a return show to a great cause makes it twice and meaningful for us and we hope that people will come out and support a great cause.”

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Ring in the new year on a live musical note

Still looking for ideas to close out 2017 and welcome the new year? There are myriad live music options at venues in and around North Carolina’s Triangle and beyond. The following list is in alphabetical order and in no way comprehensive so please feel free to share other options. Happy New Year!

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30 reasons to attend MerleFest’s 30th anniversary of making music, memories

MerleFest, one of the top Americana roots festivals, is known for its unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented music from the Appalachian region, including bluegrass and old-time music and four days of making memories, Americana, blues, country, Celtic, Cajun, cowboy, zydeco, rock and many other styles known as “traditional plus.” The festival, presented by Window World, is celebrating its 30th anniversary April 27-30, 2017, at in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. Founded in 1988 by the late, great Doc Watson in memory of his son Eddy Merle Watson as a fundraiser for Wilkes Community College. Tickets are available here.

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Early bird tickets for MerleFest 30th anniversary celebration available through Wednesday, April 26

From the good folks over at MerleFest:

With only one week until the start of MerleFest 2017, presented by Window World, the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, is buzzing with activity. Starting next Thursday, April 27, at 2:30 p.m., and running through Sunday, April 30, an estimated 75,000 participants will gather at this year’s 30th homecoming of musicians and music lovers to celebrate the world renowned MerleFest.

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The Avett Brothers to perform special tribute to Doc Watson at 30th anniversary of MerleFest

This just in from the good folks over at MerleFest:

Seth Avett of The Avett Brothers announced via email today that the group has a very special tribute planned for the 30th anniversary of MerleFest, which is coming up April 27-30, 2017, in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.

“On Saturday we will perform a full set comprised entirely of songs we learned from Doc Watson. His influence upon this band is of such a profound nature that the task of narrowing the setlist to a reasonable length is nearly as difficult as the material itself. No one could play those songs like Doc, but we look forward with great enthusiasm to the chance to honor him by sharing our renditions at one of the finest festivals we’ve ever been a part of.”

The tribute will be performed on the Hillside Stage before the popular Album Hour. The Avett Brothers are scheduled to play Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the festival.

 

 


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MerleFest 2017 adds Béla Fleck, The Earls of Leicester featuring Jerry Douglas to 30th anniversary lineup

As if you needed another reason to go to MerleFest this year,  Béla Fleck and The Earls of Leicester featuring Jerry Douglas, a supergroup homage to Flatt & Scruggs made up of several of bluegrass’s finest musicians, have been added to the 30th annual event honoring the late, great Doc Watson and his son, Merle, on Saturday, April 29, on the campus of Wilkes Community College. 

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