The bluegrass festival season begins to wind down in the fall months, but with just a little searching online, you can find all kinds of bluegrass music in the North Georgia area. Here are some of the places and events we think will be top notch!
One thing to remember: you don’t have to go to a “festival” to enjoy good bluegrass! And you don’t have to go see a “known” act to hear some good pickin’ and singing. In fact, folks who are “unknowns” do some of the best bluegrass and old-time music. Now, we’re not knocking festivals—nor are we knocking the “big-name” acts. We just want you to know, you can still enjoy bluegrass in the off-season!
One of the best places to get good bluegrass is at a SEBA (SouthEastern Bluegrass Association) chapter meeting and jam. These jams are held once a month in Atlanta, Dahlonega, Hiram, Fayetteville, Winder, and Chattanooga. They’re open to the public and
free! Bring your instrument and join in, or just enjoy the music. For times and directions to the meeting closest to you, visit
www.SEBABluegrass.org.
Everett Brothers Music Barn is a favorite hangout for pickers, singers and grinners. For more than forty years the bluegrass faithful have shown up at the old family homestead in Suwanee on Saturday nights. Known by most as Everett's Pickin' Barn or simply Everett's - it's a legend. There are literally people jamming everywhere in and around the old home place - we’ve even seen three or four crammed into the bathroom, jamming to their heart’s content! There’s always a stage show in the barn with local, regional or national talent. Donations are welcome, especially when a “big name” act appears. This is some of the best bluegrass you’ll hear and the most fun you’ll have – and it won’t cost an arm and a leg. For more info call 770-945-5628.
The Old Tucker Fountain in downtown Tucker offers bluegrass and barbecue every Sunday afternoon. You’ll find other delicious food too! Doors open at five and there’s a band from six to seven, followed by a jam session. There’s no charge, but don’t resist having at least a freshly made cookie topped with some delicious ice cream at the “Fountain.” For more info, call Mike at 770-493-8880.
Last, but most certainly not least, the Del McCoury Band will perform at Georgia Tech’s Ferst Center for the Arts on Saturday, November 15. This award-winning band is a favorite of both traditional bluegrass lovers and alternative music fans. Caution: Opening act “The Doyle and Debbie Show” might be a little “blue.” We don’t mean bluegrass, either! It’s country music comedy with a decidedly bawdy slant. Tickets are $28 and $38, unless you’re a regular subscriber at the Ferst Center. Get more info and see a seating chart at
www.ferstcenter.gatech.edu.
There’s more good bluegrass coming up throughout the winter months, so don’t despair. However, we’re out of room for this month. Besides, if we tell it all now, we might not have a column for next month! Until then, remember: country rocks but bluegrass rules!
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