Country Grass Sets the Tone as Host Band for Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Country Getaway

Every great festival needs more than a stage, a schedule, and a room full of music lovers. It needs a sound that welcomes people in. It needs a spirit that carries through the weekend. It needs a host band that understands both the music and the people who come to hear it.

For Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Country Getaway, that band is Country Grass.

As the host band for this mountain music weekend in Kingsport, Tennessee, Country Grass brings exactly the kind of energy the festival was built around: timeless country songs, authentic bluegrass drive, heartfelt harmonies, and a genuine love for bringing people together through music.

Where Country Meets Bluegrass

Country Grass has built its sound around a simple but powerful idea: take the heart of classic country music and give it the lift, energy, and instrumentation of bluegrass.

Led by Pinecastle Recording Artist Lorraine Jordan, Country Grass blends familiar country favorites with banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, acoustic guitar, bass, and harmony singing. The result is music that feels both classic and fresh. Fans hear songs they know and love, but with a bluegrass rhythm and spirit that makes the music come alive in a new way.

That sound makes Country Grass a natural fit for Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge. The festival celebrates the traditions of country and bluegrass music, but it also creates space for those traditions to meet, grow, and reach new audiences.

Country Grass represents that connection beautifully.

A Host Band with Heart

Being a host band is about more than playing music. It is about helping set the tone for the entire event.

Country Grass brings warmth, musicianship, and a strong sense of community to the Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge stage. Their music invites people to settle in, sing along, tap their feet, and feel at home. Whether they are performing a classic country favorite or a bluegrass-driven arrangement, the band knows how to connect with an audience.

That matters at a festival like Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge, where the weekend is about more than individual performances. It is about fellowship. It is about familiar faces. It is about meeting new friends, sharing stories, hearing great songs, and enjoying a full mountain getaway built around music.

Country Grass helps create that feeling from the moment the weekend begins.

The Country Grass Sound

Country Grass stands apart because the band does not try to separate country and bluegrass. Instead, they honor the deep relationship between the two.

Both styles come from storytelling traditions. Both are built on real-life emotion, family ties, faith, humor, heartbreak, and the rhythms of everyday life. Both have a way of reaching people directly because the songs are grounded in truth.

Country Grass takes that shared foundation and gives it a high-energy acoustic treatment. Their arrangements bring classic country songs into the bluegrass world with strong picking, tight harmonies, and a stage presence that keeps audiences engaged.

Their current music continues that mission. The band’s recent single, “Friday Night Blues,” takes a well-loved country song and reimagines it with bluegrass power. It is a strong example of what Country Grass does best: honoring a song’s roots while giving it new life through bluegrass instrumentation and harmony.

Led by Lorraine Jordan

Lorraine Jordan has long been known for her commitment to traditional bluegrass, country music, and live performance. With Country Grass, she brings together experienced musicians who understand how to honor the past while keeping the show exciting for today’s audiences.

The touring lineup includes musicianship across bass, mandolin, banjo, guitar, dobro, fiddle, and vocals. Together, they create a full acoustic sound that works beautifully in a festival setting.

As the host band for Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge, Country Grass brings not only talent, but leadership. They help anchor the weekend with the kind of steady, joyful presence that makes fans feel welcome and keeps the music moving.

A Perfect Fit for Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge

Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Country Getaway is designed for people who love live music, mountain views, workshops, jamming, food, lodging, and fellowship all in one convenient location.

Held at MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, the event gives fans the chance to enjoy a full weekend experience. Guests can come for the shows, stay close to the music, take part in workshops, enjoy the jamming room, and spend time with others who share the same love for country and bluegrass traditions.

Country Grass fits perfectly into that vision.

Their music is welcoming. Their style bridges audiences. Traditional bluegrass fans can appreciate the picking and harmonies. Classic country fans can enjoy songs that feel familiar and meaningful. Newer fans can experience the beauty of both genres in one place.

That is what makes them such a strong host band. They represent the heart of the festival.

More Than a Performance

When Country Grass takes the stage, audiences can expect more than a setlist. They can expect a musical experience built around memory, tradition, and connection.

A Country Grass show feels like a celebration of the songs people grew up with, the stories that shaped them, and the musicianship that keeps those songs alive. The band brings a polished performance, but never loses the warmth that makes live acoustic music special.

That is the kind of energy Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge is known for: real music, real people, and real memories.

Plan Your Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Getaway

Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Country Getaway returns March 11–13, 2027 in Kingsport, Tennessee. With Country Grass serving as the host band, fans can look forward to a weekend filled with music, fellowship, workshops, jamming, and mountain memories.

Whether you are coming for the full weekend or planning your first visit, this is the kind of event that reminds people why live music matters. It brings generations together. It honors the songs that last. It gives fans a place to gather, listen, learn, and enjoy the company of people who love the music as much as they do.

Country Grass is ready to help lead the way.

Come for the music. Stay for the memories. Leave with a song still playing in your heart.

For tickets and information, call 919-779-5672 Ext. 1.

Country Grass Show Sets the Tone with High-Energy Bluegrass at Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Country Getaway

When the Country Grass Show takes the stage, audiences know they are in for something special. Known for their dynamic performances and polished musicianship, this group has become a favorite with fans who love bluegrass that is both traditional and exciting.

Country Grass Show brings together tight harmonies, skilled instrumentation, and an infectious stage presence that keeps the energy high from the first note to the last. Their sound blends classic bluegrass roots with a modern edge, creating performances that appeal to longtime bluegrass fans as well as new listeners discovering the genre.

What truly sets Country Grass Show apart is their ability to connect with the crowd. Whether opening the festival or delivering a prime-time set, they know how to engage the audience and create an atmosphere that feels welcoming, fun, and unforgettable.

At Bluegrass in the Blue Ridge Country Getaway, Country Grass Show plays a key role in setting the tone for the entire weekend. Their performance promises great music, great energy, and the kind of moments that make this festival such a special experience. Be sure to catch them live during the festival, March 19–21, 2026.

Country Grass Show

Country Grass Show is an American bluegrass band known for blending traditional string-band instrumentation with modern acoustic energy. Rooted in the spirit of classic bluegrass while embracing contemporary influences, the group showcases virtuosic musicianship and tight vocal harmonies that highlight the enduring vitality of the genre. Their performances have earned them recognition across regional bluegrass circuits.

Key facts

• Genre: Bluegrass / Americana
• Origin: United States
• Style: Traditional bluegrass with modern influences
• Core instruments: Guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, upright bass

Origins and Style

Formed by a collective of seasoned bluegrass musicians, Country Grass Show emerged from a shared passion for preserving and evolving Appalachian string traditions. Their sound draws from the legacies of Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley while incorporating progressive instrumental interplay reminiscent of contemporary jamgrass bands. Distinctive three-part harmonies, intricate banjo rolls, and expressive mandolin phrasing form the cornerstone of their style.

Performances and Reception

The band has performed at regional bluegrass festivals, community concerts, and Americana gatherings, often sharing bills with both heritage and up-and-coming acts. Audiences and critics alike note their ability to honor bluegrass roots while introducing improvisational flair that appeals to new listeners. Their stage presence reflects the balance of technical mastery and approachable storytelling central to bluegrass performance tradition.

Influence and Legacy

Country Grass Show exemplifies a generational bridge within the bluegrass community—linking older traditions to younger audiences. Through live shows and recordings, they contribute to keeping acoustic folk instrumentation at the forefront of American roots music. Their repertoire spans high-tempo instrumentals, heartfelt gospel numbers, and reinterpretations of classic country standards, continuing the living lineage of bluegrass artistry.

August 2024

Bluegrass music, with its roots in the Appalachian region, has always been a genre that exudes authenticity and raw emotion. One band that epitomizes the spirit of bluegrass is The Country Grass Bluegrass Band, featuring a stellar lineup of musicians: Allen Dyer, Wayne Morris, Lorraine Jordan, Matt Hooper, Garrett Newton, and Kent Dixon. This article delves into the unique contributions of each member, their collective journey, and the impact they have made on the bluegrass scene.

The Genesis of The Country Grass Bluegrass Band

The Country Grass Bluegrass Band was formed with the vision of blending traditional bluegrass with modern elements, creating a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. Each member brings their unique talent and musical background to the band, resulting in a harmonious blend of voices and instruments. From the outset, the band's goal has been to honor the traditions of bluegrass while exploring new musical frontiers.

Allen Dyer: The Voice of The Band

Allen Dyer, the lead vocalist, is known for his soulful and powerful voice that brings each song to life. His ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences is unparalleled. Allen's journey in music began in his childhood, where he was immersed in the sounds of country and bluegrass. His vocal prowess and stage presence make him a central figure in the band, captivating listeners with every performance.

Wayne Morris: The Rhythm Keeper

Wayne Morris, the band's guitarist, is the backbone of The Country Grass Bluegrass Band's sound. His rhythmic precision and intricate playing style provide a solid foundation for the band's music. Wayne's passion for bluegrass is evident in his performances, where he effortlessly blends traditional techniques with innovative approaches. His contributions extend beyond his instrumental skills, as he also plays a crucial role in the band's musical arrangements.

Lorraine Jordan: The Mandolin Maestro

Lorraine Jordan, often referred to as the "Lady of Tradition," is the band's mandolin player and a driving force behind their success. Her exceptional mandolin skills and deep understanding of bluegrass music bring a unique flavor to the band's sound. Lorraine's leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the band's direction, and her performances are marked by a blend of technical brilliance and heartfelt expression.

Matt Hooper: The Fiddle Virtuoso

Matt Hooper, the band's fiddler, adds a layer of complexity and richness to their music. His virtuosity on the fiddle is evident in his dynamic and emotive playing. Matt's ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies enhances the band's overall sound, making each performance a captivating experience. His background in classical and folk music influences his approach, bringing a unique perspective to the band's repertoire.

Garrett Newton: The Banjo Prodigy

Garrett Newton, the youngest member of the band, is a banjo prodigy whose talent belies his age. His energetic and innovative banjo playing infuses the band's music with vibrancy and excitement. Garrett's dedication to mastering the banjo has earned him recognition in the bluegrass community, and his contributions to the band are indispensable. His fresh take on traditional bluegrass techniques adds a contemporary edge to their sound.

Kent Dixon: The Bass Backbone

Kent Dixon, the band's bassist, completes the ensemble with his steady and robust bass lines. His ability to maintain a solid rhythmic foundation is crucial to the band's cohesive sound. Kent's background in various musical genres allows him to bring versatility and depth to the band's performances. His role extends beyond the bass, as he also contributes to the band's arrangements and overall musical direction.

Musical Style and Influences

The Country Grass Bluegrass Band's music is a testament to the versatility and creativity of its members. Drawing inspiration from bluegrass legends like Bill Monroe and The Stanley Brothers, the band blends traditional elements with modern influences to create a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Their music features tight harmonies, intricate instrumental arrangements, and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners across generations.

Notable Albums and Songs

The band's discography includes several albums that have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Their debut album, "Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road," introduced the world to their unique sound. Subsequent albums like "Time and Place" and "Country Grass" further solidified their reputation as one of the leading bluegrass bands. Songs like "Living Like I'm Dying," "Run Little Fox," and "That's Kentucky" showcase their musical prowess and have become fan favorites.

Live Performances and Tours

One of the highlights of The Country Grass Bluegrass Band's career is their live performances. Known for their energetic and engaging shows, the band has performed at numerous festivals and venues across the country. Each performance is a celebration of bluegrass music, filled with lively tunes, heartfelt ballads, and moments of spontaneous improvisation. The band's chemistry and stage presence leave audiences wanting more.

Collaborations and Partnerships

The Country Grass Bluegrass Band has collaborated with several notable artists in the bluegrass and country music scenes. These collaborations have resulted in memorable musical moments and have expanded the band's reach. Working with artists like Marty Raybon, Eddie Raven, and Jim Lauderdale, the band has explored new musical territories and brought fresh perspectives to their music. These partnerships highlight their commitment to the bluegrass community and their desire to push the boundaries of the genre.

Impact on the Bluegrass Scene

The Country Grass Bluegrass Band has made a significant impact on the bluegrass scene. Their music has introduced bluegrass to new audiences and has inspired a new generation of musicians. Lorraine Jordan's leadership and dedication to the genre have earned her the nickname "Lady of Tradition," and she continues to be a prominent figure in the bluegrass community. The band's commitment to preserving traditional sounds while incorporating modern elements has helped keep the genre alive and thriving.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like any musical journey, The Country Grass Bluegrass Band's path has been filled with challenges and triumphs. From navigating the competitive music industry to maintaining their unique sound, the band has faced numerous obstacles. However, their unwavering dedication to their craft and their love for bluegrass music have seen them through. Each challenge has only strengthened their resolve, and each triumph has fueled their passion for making music.

Future Endeavors and Projects

Looking ahead, The Country Grass Bluegrass Band shows no signs of slowing down. They continue to tour, record new music, and engage with their fans. Upcoming projects include a new album that promises to deliver more of the band's signature sound and some exciting collaborations with other artists. The band is also exploring opportunities to mentor young musicians and share their knowledge and experience with the next generation of bluegrass artists.

The Role of Bluegrass Festivals in the Band's Success

Bluegrass festivals have played a crucial role in the success of The Country Grass Bluegrass Band. These festivals provide a platform for the band to showcase their music and connect with fans. Events like MerleFest, the IBMA World of Bluegrass, and the Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival have featured the band, helping them gain exposure and build a loyal fan base. Lorraine Jordan's participation in these festivals has also helped her forge connections with other artists and industry professionals, further enhancing the band's career.

The Evolution of Bluegrass Music

Bluegrass music has evolved significantly since its inception, and The Country Grass Bluegrass Band has been part of this evolution. While staying true to the traditional roots of bluegrass, the band has embraced modern influences and experimented with new sounds. This approach has allowed them to stay relevant and appeal to a broader audience. The band's willingness to innovate while honoring tradition is a key factor in their success and longevity.

The Influence of Technology on Bluegrass Music

In today's digital age, technology has had a profound impact on the music industry, and bluegrass is no exception. The Country Grass Bluegrass Band has leveraged technology to reach a wider audience and promote their music. Social media platforms, streaming services, and digital marketing have become essential tools for the band. By embracing technology, Lorraine Jordan and her band have been able to connect with fans, share their music, and grow their brand.

The Importance of Community in Bluegrass Music

Community is at the heart of bluegrass music, and The Country Grass Bluegrass Band is a testament to this. The band's connection with their fans and the broader bluegrass community is a vital part of their identity. Lorraine Jordan's involvement in bluegrass events, her interactions with fans, and her support for fellow musicians all contribute to a sense of community. This bond with their audience and peers is what makes bluegrass music so special and enduring.

FAQs

What makes The Country Grass Bluegrass Band unique? The Country Grass Bluegrass Band stands out due to its unique blend of traditional bluegrass and contemporary influences. Each member brings their individual talent and musical background, creating a harmonious and dynamic sound.

How did Lorraine Jordan contribute to the band's success? Lorraine Jordan's exceptional mandolin skills, leadership, and vision have been instrumental in shaping the band's direction. Her dedication to bluegrass music and her charismatic stage presence have earned her a prominent place in the bluegrass community.

What are some of the band's most popular songs? Some of The Country Grass Bluegrass Band's most popular songs include "Living Like I'm Dying," "Run Little Fox," and "That's Kentucky." These songs showcase the band's musical prowess and have become fan favorites.

How does the band engage with their fans? The band engages with their fans through live performances, social media, and bluegrass festivals. They value their connection with their audience and make an effort to interact with fans at events and online.

What role do bluegrass festivals play in the band's career? Bluegrass festivals provide a platform for The Country Grass Bluegrass Band to showcase their music, connect with fans, and gain exposure. Participation in these festivals has been crucial to their success and growth.

What are the band's future plans? The band plans to continue touring, recording new music, and engaging with their fans. They are also exploring opportunities to mentor young musicians and share their knowledge and experience with the next generation of bluegrass artists.

The Country Grass Bluegrass Band, featuring Allen Dyer, Wayne Morris, Lorraine Jordan, Matt Hooper, Garrett Newton, and Kent Dixon, represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation in bluegrass music. Their unique sound, dedication to their craft, and connection with their fans have made them a standout band in the bluegrass scene. As they continue to evolve and inspire, The Country Grass Bluegrass Band remains a testament to the enduring appeal and vitality of bluegrass music.