John Goad

3 days ago | bluegrasstoday.com | John Goad

It can be tough when a longtime member of an established band leaves, especially when it’s a musician with a long and storied pedigree such as Terry Smith, who played his last show as bass man for The Grascals on May 31. However, any time there’s a fine picker prepared to take over, fans and band members can rest a little easier knowing that their brand of music is in good hands.

Jan 27, 2025 | bluegrasstoday.com | John Goad

Bobbi and Don Day at the 2023 July Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival,with new owners, Aaron and Amy McDaris – photo by Tammy HarmanThe Starvy Creek Bluegrass Festival, once managed by Don and Bobbie Day on their family farm in Conway, MO, has been purchased by banjo player Aaron McDaris, of Rhonda Vincent & the Rage. After the 2022 festival season, the Day family felt compelled to end things on a high note, and decided to close their longtime festival.

Oct 29, 2024 | bluegrasstoday.com | John Goad

Many of central and eastern Kentucky’s bluegrass favorites will come together this Saturday, November 2, at Meadowgreen Appalachian Music Park at Pickin’ for Styx, a benefit for beloved bluegrass superfan Allen “Styx” Hicks.

Jul 25, 2024 | bluegrasstoday.com | John Goad

LIke most guitar players, I’ve used all sorts of capos throughout my life.

Aug 1, 2023 | bluegrasstoday.com | John Goad

The Dr. Ralph Stanley Memorial Day Weekend festival held on Smith Ridge in McClure, Virginia, has celebrated the music of the Stanleys for more than 50 years. With Ralph Stanley II at the helm, an additional festival, held annually on the same site in August, arose three years ago to celebrate coal miners.