Merlefest Proves a Success Yet Again
Merlefest is one of those festivals that is sort of addicting. It was my very first music festival back in 2005, and I have not missed a year since. Set in the hills of Wilkesboro, N.C., at Wilkes Community College, Merlefest is a celebration of all types of roots music. It’s an absolutely beautiful place for a festival, and a very nice get-away from the hustle and bustle of Music City.
One of my favorite bluegrass bands The Infamous Stringdusters sure were a hit at the festival. Dobro player Andy Hall gave his longtime girlfriend a surprise when he asked her to marry him in front of thousands of fans. The Stringdusters are now on a five-week tour of Europe and have a new album coming out this June on Sugar Hill Records.
The Avett Brothers also got the crowd a little rowdy on Friday night. I swear I even saw chair surfing in the crowd — not common crowd behavior for this festival. My favorite performance had to be Levon Helm, legendary drummer for The Band on Saturday night. He couldn’t let the night go by without playing old favorite tunes like “Rag Mama Rag” and “The Weight.” Levon also had special guests Bruce Hornsby (who had just finished up a set with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder) and one of my heroes Sam Bush.
Although I left early on Sunday, I could kick myself for it from the reviews I’ve heard of the Dan Tyminski Band. He will release a new album this summer and has a top-notch band that includes some of Alison Krauss’s former band members. Ah well, there’s always next year.
Photo credit: Stacy Kent
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Amanda says:
wow sure sounds like a great time. i would love to see some pictures.
yankeeBrock says:
Emilee fantastic write up, hope to see more from you in the future.
Debbie says:
I had a great time too and saw all the bands listed at the festival as well. One of my favorite moments was being almost onstage while Old Crowe Medicine Show was playing. I also enjoyed Sam Bush’s set, probably more than anything. I sat out in the field with my friends and layed down and starred at the stars while Sam showed that electric guitar who was boss.
I love Merlefest. This was my second year and I plan to go back until I die.
David D says:
Cool that you did a a write-up about your adventure to Merlefest. I have not yet been, but have always to go to the fest. You have convinced me that I am missing out. I know this beacause I see at good shows in nashville. Take care Emilee and keep up the good ears and good work.
Horseloverfat says:
I’ve been going to MerleFest since 1996 and it is the best annual music festival out there. Always world class talent and a wonderful atmosphere. To see more photos like the great shot above by Stacy Kent go to merlefest.org and watch the slideshow. Their photographers ROCK!
Jen says:
Would love to see more photos from Merle Fest!
Jason says:
A buddy of mine is one of the Merlefest photographers and has some excellent pics. You can check out his photos at:
http://www.kmjames.org
He’s been shooting out there for a while. Amazing festival this year.