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Tom Sauber // Photo by William Purcell

Through the Years with Tom Sauber

There aren’t many bluegrass or old-time fiddlers who can claim to have performed in a bear suit. More than once. As cool as that is, it represents but a second in the long and eventful career of the highly esteemed Southern California multi-instrumentalist Tom Sauber. Now in his seventh decade as a professional musician, has…

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Mutt Poston during his heyday as a Rural Rhythm Recording Artist, ca. 1967.

Notes & Queries – August 2025

Q: Could you provide me with some info on Fiddlin’ Mutt Poston? I will be playing one of his fiddle tunes on our radio program in the coming weeks and have been unable to locate any info about this gentleman. Thanks.  – Wilson Moore, Amherst, Nova Scotia A: Mercer Adron “Mutt” Poston was a fiddler from…

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All God’s Children

With four lead singers, East Nash Grass has a lot of flexibility and the band uses it well.  Winner of the 2024 IBMA “New Artist of the Year” Award, East Nash Grass employs its division of labor on their latest album much as it did on its previous release, Last Chance to Win, and with…

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Biscuits & Banjos

Exploring the Black Roots of Bluegrass, Old Time and Americana The first Biscuits and Banjos festival took place in Durham, North Carolina during the weekend of April 25th-27th, 2025.  The festival was initiated by Rhiannon Giddens and is dedicated to the celebration and exploration of Black music, art, and culture in her home state of…

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Ralph and Carter Stanley in what was likely their first promotional photo, ca. early 1947.

Think What You’ve Done

Why Carter Stanley Ranks as the No. 1 Bluegrass Songwriter Carter Stanley’s song “The Memory of Your Smile,” came on strong as Tracy Nelson picked songs for an upcoming 1972 album.  Blues-rock singer Nelson grew so committed to the bluegrass number that she brought in banjo king Earl Scruggs and A-level fiddler Vassar Clements for…

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Photos Courtesy of Ohio County Tourism

A Visit to Bill Monroe’s Hometown of Rosine, Kentucky

Photos Courtesy of Ohio County Tourism A visit to the hometown of one of your music heroes may not always sound like it would be worth the time, effort, or expense. These days most small towns in the United States all look about the same.  You might find a quaint, but somewhat run-down, downtown area,…

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