After years of playing in an assortment of 1940-style big bands, songwriter demo recordings, and local bands, Kevin went to his first bluegrass party in 2011. Even though he knew NOTHING about the bluegrass body of songs, he was welcomed like a long-lost cousin. He never looked back. Since then, he's learned from some master players: Roger Sprung, Tom Gray, Barry Bales, Pete Kelly, Mark Schatz, Frank Shaw, Danny Stanley, Mark Templeton, ...and the list goes on! From festivals as small as Roxbury Pickin' and Fiddlin' up to the big party at the International Bluegrass Music Association in Raleigh, he's been welcomed as that same long-lost cousin. Kevin is a musical side man- never the big show. Kevin leaves that for the singers and pickers up on the front line. He uses the bass to define the song structure and provide support for the melodic leader.
Willie Wells, the son of the late Bill Wells has always been on the music scene. Since the early 70’s Willie has played drums, sang lead and harmony vocals. Having early country music and bluegrass influence from his father, Willie continued to develop and expand his musical direction toward recording studio production.
Over the past ten to twelve years the Bluegrass influence kicked back in which prompted Willie to dedicate his musical direction to continue the Bluegrass legacy that his father started. Just like his father, Willie and his band continue to promote Bluegrass Music throughout the community and at Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor where Willie no carries on his fathers legacy as the owner of Bills Music Shop and Pickin' parlor.
Some of Kathy’s favorite musicians are Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, The Nashville Bluegrass Band, Donna Ullise, and Dale Ann Bradley. Kathy's favorite young Columbia artist is the very talented Tyler Chasteen of Willie Wells and Blueridge Mountain Grass. For her, music and sunshine are all the heart needs!
South Carolina Bluegrass and Traditional Music Association
SC Public 501(c)(3) Organization