MerleFest highlights the weekend in Wilkesboro but live music is happening throughout all of North Carolina…

The 31st annual MerleFest kicked off on Thursday night behind a spectacular lineup of artists, especially those from Texas. Shinyribs, Kris Kristofferson and Robert Earl Keen all graced the Watson stage in front of a crowd that wouldn’t be discouraged by a little rainfall.

Fortunately, the forecast for the remainder of the festival looks amazing as there are many other wonderful artists to see and hear all weekend long. If you can’t make it to Wilkesboro, then be on the lookout for another one of these events happening across the state this weekend!

FRIDAY – APRIL 27, 2018

MerleFest – See the full schedule and lineup of events for Day Two here.

Jamey Johnson – MerleFest
Rodney Crowell – MerleFest
Brandy Clark – MerleFest
Mandolin Orange – MerleFest

John Moreland – The Ramkat, Winston-Salem

“In churches learning how to hate yourself/Ain’t grace a wretched old thing” he sings, the song called “Ain’t We Gold.” Big Bad Luv is unmistakably a rock ‘n’ roll record. If, that is, one understands the term to include Ray Wylie Hubbard, John Hiatt, and Lucero. Or The Band, maybe. Insistent songs, coming from a voice as elegant as unfinished barn wood, songs which insist upon their words being heard.

Corey Hunt Band – Old Dallas Brewery, Dallas

“Hunt’s songwriting ranges from sincere romanticism to outlaw rebellion, and their do-it-yourself approach to booking, recording, and gigging has given them the freedom to explore and expand their music as they grow.  With room to grow and momentum on their side, their crowd-pleasing and relatable take on modern roots music is poised for bigger and better things every time they hit the stage or the studio.”

Todd Snider – Salvage Station, Asheville

Described as “one of the sharpest, funniest storytellers in rock” by Rolling Stone and “an exceptional songwriter” by NPR’s Fresh Air, Snider uses his narrative chops to keep the world of ‘Eastside Bulldog’ poignant, acerbic and hilarious.

Jonathan Parker – City Tap, Pittsboro

Independent and traditional country music. Rising local artist within the genre featuring original songs and a few classic covers from some of your favorite outlaws.

SATURDAY – APRIL 26, 2018

MerleFest – See the full schedule and lineup of events for Day Three here.

Moo and Brew Fest in Charlotte.
Charley Crockett – Moo and Brew Fest
Shovels and Rope – Moo and Brew Fest

Caitlyn Smith – Evening Muse, Charlotte

From small-town Minnesota to the stages of Lollapalooza and the Austin City Limits festival, Caitlyn Smith is now living a dream she’s had from a very young age—and with the release of the mature, masterful Starfire, there’s no telling what happens from here.

The Black Lillies – Reeves Theatre, Elkin

With a new configuration, new songs and the same dedication to touring, the Lillies continue to sink their roots deep into the Americana landscape.

Corey Smith – The Orange Peel, Asheville

Now, however, Corey is focused squarely on the future. As the new album title suggests, he’s ready to make a determined grab at country’s brass ring while the gettin’ is good. And with Keith Stegall and Sugar Hill Records behind him, the gettin’ has never been better.

Todd Snider – Neighborhood Theatre, Charlotte

A second opportunity this weekend!

SUNDAY – APRIL 29, 2018

MerleFest – See the full schedule and lineup of events for Day Four here.

Shovels and Rope – The Blind Tiger, Greensboro

Mandolin Orange – Greenfield Lake Amphitheatre, Wilmington

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Look for us out on the road this weekend and enjoy the shows! Don’t forget, keep spreading the love, one song at a time…