tag:grasstowne.com,2005:/blogs/band-blog?p=1Band Blog2020-09-17T13:25:00-04:00Alan Bibey & Grasstownefalsetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/65376122021-01-29T13:30:00-05:002021-02-02T16:29:50-05:00New Album from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Release January 29<h3 style="text-align: center;">NEW MUSIC RELEASE ANNOUNCED </h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Alan Bibey & Grasstowne <br>HITCHHIKING TO CALIFORNIA </h3>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/b1882147c3fdc5f3451f28cc23c3646d33ae0beb/original/img-5922ghwkati.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /> </p>
<p> </p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">New Album from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Album Release January 29 </h4>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/15af88585929a65ddb25692392f6298711fa37e4/original/alan-bibey-cover-web.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Nashville, TENN --- Billy Blue Records, along with Alan Bibey & Grasstowne, announce the release of Hitchhiking to California, Friday, January 29, 2021. </p>
<p>Additionally, a lyric video is now available for the latest single from the project, “Blue Collar Blues,” (1.15.21). </p>
<p><a contents="Click here for lyric video for “Blue Collar Blues”.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/IDM-Fe2rzrQ" style="">Click here for lyric video for “Blue Collar Blues”.</a></p>
<p>Hitchhiking to California is the group’s 6th recorded project; its first on Nashville’s Billy Blue Records. The project features 11 tracks, including the chart-topping title cut, which was released to radio in the Fall of 2020. The song reached #1 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart. </p>
<p>Alan Bibey, is a multi-award winning and Grammy nominated artist known for his exceptional mandolin mastery. He is joined by Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass and vocals, Tony Watt on guitar, Kati Penn on fiddle and vocals, Ron Stewart on guitar and fiddle, and Patrick M’Gonigle on vocals. The multi-award winning duo of Darin & Brooke Aldridge guests on the track, “Daddy and Me.” </p>
<p>Bibey signed with Billy Blue Records in early 2020. “It’s been such a good experience,” Alan says. “Everyone is so interested and involved. It’s a great team, and working together has been a total pleasure.” </p>
<p>Among his many accolades, Alan was included in the Mel Bay book, “Greatest Mandolin Players Of The Twentieth Century,”and in 2004, the Gibson Company put into production the Alan Bibey Signature line of mandolins. Quite simply, Alan Bibey is one of the most influential mandolin players in bluegrass and acoustic music history, with an ever-growing string of hit singles and albums. Hitchhiking to California continues the tradition. </p>
<p>Hitchhiking to California is available wherever great music is sold or streamed. The music is available to radio through <a contents="AIRPLAY DIRECT." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://airplaydirect.com/music/hitchhiking-to-california/">AIRPLAY DIRECT. </a> </p>
<p><a contents="www.alanbibey.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.alanbibey.com">www.alanbibey.com</a> </p>
<p><a contents="www.grasstowne.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.grasstowne.com">www.grasstowne.com </a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>ALAN BIBEY & GRASSTOWNE <br>HITCHHIKING TO CALIFORNIA <br>RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 29, 2021 <br>BILLY BLUE RECORDS </p>
<p>FULL TRACK LIST <br>01. HITCHHIKING TO CALIFORNIA <br>02. BLUE COLLAR BLUES <br>03. I WANT TO BE LOVED (BUT ONLY BY YOU) <br>04. LONESOMEVILLE <br>05. RHYTHM OF THE RAILS <br>06. MESSIN’ WITH SASQUATCH <br>07. I DON’T KNOW WHEN <br>08. TAKE THE LONG WAY HOME <br>09. CRIME AT QUIET DELL <br>10. DADDY AND ME (FEAT. DARIN & BROOKE ALDRIDGE) <br>11. WHEN HE CALLS MY NAME </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p># # # </p>
<p> </p>
<p>MEDIA CONTACT FOR BILLY BLUE RECORDS </p>
<p>claire ratliff <br>laughing penguin publicity <br>po box 140396 <br>nashville, tn 37214 <br>615.476.3200 <br>claire@penguinpublicity.com</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/65166722021-01-08T17:41:00-05:002021-01-08T17:41:00-05:00NEW MUSIC RELEASE ANNOUNCED: Alan Bibey & Grasstowne: Hitchhiking to California this Month<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/15af88585929a65ddb25692392f6298711fa37e4/original/alan-bibey-cover-web.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<br><strong>New Album to be Released January 29 </strong>
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Pre-Orders Available Now </strong></h3>
<p> </p>
<p>Nashville, TENN --- Alan Bibey & Grasstowne is set to deliver Hitchhiking to California this month; the group’s debut project on Billy Blue Records. </p>
<p>Pre-orders for the highly-anticipated album are live today, January 8, 2021. The album will be released on January 29th. </p>
<p>Hitchhiking to California is the group’s 6th recorded project; its first on Nashville’s booming, young bluegrass label, Billy Blue Records. The project features 11 tracks, including the chart-topping title cut, which was released to radio in the Fall of 2020. The song reached #1 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart. </p>
<p>Of the title cut and its successful reception, Bibey says, “That song was strong 35 years ago and it holds up today. I’m really happy with how it came out. This lineup is just the right group of killer players and singers for the new version, and I was ecstatic to see it top the Bluegrass Today chart.” </p>
<p>A second radio release, “Blue Collar Blues,” will hit radio airwaves on Friday, January 15th. </p>
<p>Leader of the band, Alan Bibey, is a multi-award winning and Grammy nominated artist known for his exceptional mandolin mastery. He is joined by Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass and vocals, Tony Watt on guitar, Kati Penn on fiddle and vocals, Ron Stewart on guitar and fiddle, and Patrick M’Gonigle on vocals. The multi-award winning duo of Darin & Brooke Aldridge guests on the track, “Daddy and Me.” </p>
<p>Although the group is generally considered a contemporary band, Bibey grew up on traditional music, and his dedication to the genre shines through, whether on an inspirational song, or a driving, upbeat track. </p>
<p>“I’ve thought about a concept or theme album, but our goal here was just to make a great bluegrass album and we chose songs with that in mind,” Bibey says. </p>
<p>First hitting the scene in the early 1980’s, Alan has earned a reputation as one of the most creative and technically gifted mandolinists in bluegrass and acoustic music. He was an original member of the groundbreaking bands The New Quicksilver, IIIrd Tyme Out, and BlueRidge. For nearly a decade now, he’s fronted Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. Alan won the SPBGMA “Mandolin Performer of The Year” award for 2007, 2009 and 2010. He won the IBMA “Instrumental Album of the Year” in 2001, “Album of the Year” in 2006, “Recorded Event” in 2012 and SPBGMA “Album of the Year” in 2008. Alan took home back to back 2019 and 2020 IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year honors and the 2020 SPBGMA Mandolin Performer of the Year. His band Alan Bibey & Grasstowne took home the 2020 IBMA Gospel Recording of the Year. </p>
<p>Bibey signed with Billy Blue Records in early 2020. “It’s been such a good experience,” Alan says. “Everyone is so interested and involved. It’s a great team, and working together has been a total pleasure.” </p>
<p>Among his many accolades, Alan was included in the Mel Bay book, “Greatest Mandolin Players Of The Twentieth Century,”and in 2004, the Gibson Company put into production the Alan Bibey Signature line of mandolins. Quite simply, Alan Bibey is one of the most influential mandolin players in bluegrass and acoustic music history, with an ever-growing string of hit singles and albums. Hitchhiking to California continues the tradition. </p>
<p>Hitchhiking to California is available for pre-order through the artist website and online everywhere great music is sold, including Amazon. </p>
<p>ALAN BIBEY & GRASSTOWNE <br>HITCHHIKING TO CALIFORNIA <br>RELEASE DATE: JANUARY 29, 2021 <br>BILLY BLUE RECORDS </p>
<p>TRACK LIST <br>01. HITCHHIKING TO CALIFORNIA <br>02. BLUE COLLAR BLUES <br>03. I WANT TO BE LOVED (BUT ONLY BY YOU) <br>04. LONESOMEVILLE <br>05. RHYTHM OF THE RAILS <br>06. MESSIN’ WITH SASQUATCH <br>07. I DON’T KNOW WHEN <br>08. TAKE THE LONG WAY HOME <br>09. CRIME AT QUIET DELL <br>10. DADDY AND ME (FEAT. DARIN & BROOKE ALDRIDGE) <br>11. WHEN HE CALLS MY NAME </p>
<p> </p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/64896112020-11-25T15:35:00-05:002020-12-01T18:34:56-05:00Blue Christmas drops for Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Posted on November 25, 2020 By John Lawless<p>https://bluegrasstoday.com/blue-christmas-drops-for-alan-bibey-grasstowne/</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/cb5d048bf7e9f358a520aafe28192b902605455b/original/1606327275-alan-bibey-blue-christmas.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Despite the lack of touring opportunities, 2020 has been a good year for Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. Tracks for the band’s last album have seen success on the charts, and Alan won his second consecutive award from the IBMA for Mandolin Player of the Year. </p>
<p>They also signed with Billy Blue Records and recently secured the #1 spot on our Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay chart for the first single with them, a remake of Hitchhiking To California. </p>
<p>Now, in honor of the impending holidays, Al and the band have released their first ever Christmas single, a grassified version of Elvis Presley’s 1957 hit, Blue Christmas. And on the eve of Thanksgiving, no one can complain that it’s too early for holiday songs! </p>
<p>Bibey recalls a painful memory regarding this number. </p>
<p>“When we were considering recording a Christmas song, Blue Christmas came to my mind first. It brings up great memories of me doing my best Elvis impersonation for my daughters when they were really small. That’s proof you’ll do anything for your kids, but it made that song special to me.” </p>
<p>The song was cut by the current Grasstowne, with Justin Jenkins on banjo, Tony Watt on guitar, Zak McLamb on bass. Ron Stewart plays fiddle. </p>
<p>Here ’tis…</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8qsMbbn3REo" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p>The single for Blue Christmas is available now to radio through <a contents="AirPlay Direct" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://airplaydirect.com/music/blue-christmas/">AirPlay Direct</a>, and will be released for purchase on December 4 from all your favorite streaming and download sites.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/64598322020-10-19T13:30:00-04:002020-10-20T16:27:18-04:00Kati Penn to Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Posted on October 19, 2020 By John Lawless<p>https://bluegrasstoday.com/kati-penn-to-alan-bibey-grasstowne/</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/6b3203d9427eb26caef25876fd2be467afc41efb/original/kati.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Big news for fans of Alan Bibey & Grasstowne! </p>
<p>Alan has announced the addition of Kati Penn to the band on fiddle plus lead and harmony vocals. She steps in to the spot recently vacated when Laura Orshaw departed to join The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys. </p>
<p>Penn is an established bluegrass veteran, returning to touring after the dissolution of her popular group, NewTown. Known throughout bluegrass music as a compelling singer and solid fiddler, she will bring a new dimension to the Grasstowne sound. </p>
<p>Bibey says that Penn is just right for Grasstowne. </p>
<p>“We are thrilled to have Kati as a full time member of Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. We have all been big fans of her music for a long time, and she just fits in so well. I’m excited for the future of the band, and for our friends and fans to hear Kati with us.” </p>
<p>For her part, Kati is delighted to be a part of this successful act. </p>
<p>“I’m so honored and excited to be asked to join this incredible and talented group of musicians and singers that make up Grasstowne. I’m looking forward to adding to the award-winning sound this band delivers on stage and in the studio.” </p>
<p>She is working with Alan and the rest of the guys now to complete their next project for Billy Blue Records. With Alan on mandolin and vocals, and Kati on fiddle and vocals, Grasstowne is Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass, and Tony Watt on guitar. </p>
<p>Bibey is pushing against 30 years as a professional grasser, having served as a founding member of IIIrd Tyme Out, New Quicksilver, and Blue Ridge before forming Grasstowne in 2006. He has been named the Mandolin Performer of the Year multiple times by SPBGMA, and Mandolin Player of the Year by the IBMA in both 2019 and 2020. The boy can play! </p>
<p>The current Grasstowne single, Hitchhiking To California, has spent several weeks on our Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart, sitting this week at #5.</p>
<p>Keep an eye on the Alan Bibey & Grasstowne web site for news about their 2021 tour schedule.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/64598312020-09-17T13:25:00-04:002020-10-20T16:24:56-04:00Hitchhiking To California video from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Posted on September 17, 2020 By John Lawless<p> </p>
<p>https://bluegrasstoday.com/hitchhiking-to-california-video-from-alan-bibey-grasstowne/</p>
<p>Billy Blue Records has released a clever new music video from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne, telling the story in their latest single, Hitchhiking To California. The song has been an instant hit, debuting on our Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay chart at #5 last week, and sure to keep on rising. </p>
<p>Alan played on the first recording of the song back in 1985 during the time he was performing as a member of New Quicksilver. That band had a short-lived career following the break up of the original Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. Doyle’s bandmates Terry Baucom, Randy Graham, and Jimmy Haley left Doyle over some business disputes, and then hired Al to play mandolin. </p>
<p>The new band figured, ‘Well Doyle is still Doyle, and we were, and are Quicksilver.’ But legal wrangling ensued over the band name, and they disappeared after a season or two, though occasional reunion shows continued to occur. </p>
<p>Hitchhiking was one of two contributions to their album from Wes Golding, who had made quite a mark as part of Boone Creek with Baucom in the late 1970s. Bibey always liked the song, and the powerful, gutty presentation of the New Quicksilver arrangement, but also felt like the song was too short. </p>
<p>So he and Jerry Salley of Billy Blue talked about adding a third verse to complete the story, and maybe making a few other revisions to the lyrics. When Jerry agreed, Al contacted Wes who gave his unrestricted blessing. What you hear in the Grasstowne rendition is the result of that collaboration, and the birth of a new bluegrass hit. </p>
<p>Given the fact that not many people remember New Quicksilver, Bibey says that he feels like it can be a brand new song for many of today’s listeners. And he feels a special honor to be the one giving it a new life, since he was there as a young kid of 20 when it was first recorded. </p>
<p>“It’s so cool I’d be the one to bring it back. Recutting it was a big undertaking that I didn’t take lightly. I knew this song has to be strong, both to match the intensity of the original, and to bring it forward to a new audience.” </p>
<p>Seeing what a fine job he and the guys did on the track, Alan knew they had to make a strong music video to bring the lyrics to life. So he and the band put together a concept working with their videographer, Shane Leonard, and came up with a story within the song. As you watch you’ll see Bibey and the rest of the band – bass player Zak McLamb, banjo man Justin Jenkins, guitarist Tony Watt, and fiddler Patrick McGonigle – waiting by the side of the road, hitching a ride. </p>
<p>Soon a hot red Mustang slows down, driven by Virginia luthier and mandolinist Spencer Strickland, and passes them by. But an older man in a tricked out vintage pickup stops and tells them all to hop in. The song makes for perfect traveling music, and as they proceed down the road, they encounter the Mustang once again in a memorable moment. </p>
<p>Keep an eye peeled for a number of quick references to the original New Quicksilver recording as things move along.</p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BDoXfLf0zec" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p>Hitchhiking To California is available now wherever you <a contents="stream or download music online" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://ffm.to/abg-hitchhiking">stream or download music online</a>. Radio programmers can get the track at <a contents="AirPlay Direct" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://airplaydirect.com/music/hitchhiking-to-california/">AirPlay Direct</a>.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/64598192020-09-15T13:10:00-04:002020-10-20T16:07:33-04:00Video Premiere: Hitchhiking to California on The Bluegrass Situation- September 15th, 2020<p>https://thebluegrasssituation.com/read/watch-alan-bibey-grasstowne-hitchhiking-to-california/</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/d78ae31b76599d961565fdc0756b6b0020434786/original/alan-bibey-and-grasstowne-e1600086341434.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Artist: Alan Bibey & Grasstowne <br>Hometown: Walnut Cove, North Carolina <br>Song: “Hitchhiking to California” <br>Album: Hitchhiking To California (set for release January 2021) <br>Label: Billy Blue Records </p>
<p>In Their Words: “When I was 16 years old, I got the opportunity to play in a regional band that included a musician named Wes Golding, and the seeds of a lifelong friendship were sown. A few years later, I began playing professionally with the New Quicksilver, and we recorded the original version of a song Wes wrote called ‘Hitchhiking to California.’ That was back in 1985. So when we started to record this new project for Billy Blue Records, I had the idea to redo the song, and Jerry Salley and I both agreed we’d love a third verse, which was not included in the original version. With Wes Golding’s blessing, Jerry and I wrote a new verse and reworked a few other things in the song for its new release.” — Alan Bibey</p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BDoXfLf0zec" width="560"></iframe></p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/64598182020-08-21T13:05:00-04:002020-10-20T16:01:32-04:00Hitchhiking To California from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Posted on August 21, 2020 By John Lawless<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/200ae221dbce4070539949ff30514134d3578c73/original/alan-bibey-hitchhiking-cover.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>https://bluegrasstoday.com/hitchhiking-to-california-from-alan-bibey-grasstowne/</p>
<p>Here’s a blast from the past from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne – from 35 years ago to be exact! </p>
<p>It’s the debut single from their upcoming project with Billy Blue Records, Hitchhiking To California, one Alan recorded with New Quicksilver back in 1985. That marked Bibey’s first real professional gig in bluegrass, when he was 19 years old. </p>
<p>Now Alan and co-producer Jerry Salley have reworked that Wes Golding classic, adding a third verse and tweaking the two existing verses for this new cut. Al says that this was done with approval from Wes, who he thanks for his generosity and kindness. </p>
<p>It makes for a rip-roarin’ track, featuring newest Grasstowner Patrick McGonigle on fiddle and tenor vocal, along with Bibey on lead vocal and mandolin, Zak McLamb on bass, Justin Jenkins on banjo, and Ron Stewart sitting in on guitar, as Tony Watt was unable to make the session due to COVID travel restrictions. </p>
<p>Here’s a taste… </p>
<p>Hitchhiking To California is available now wherever you stream or download music online. Radio programmers can get the track at AirPlay Direct. </p>
<p>I smell a hit.</p>
<p> </p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/62131682020-02-12T14:14:13-05:002020-02-12T14:14:13-05:00Alan Bibey & Grasstowne to Billy Blue Records Posted on February 11, 2020 By John Lawless<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/4198410ec65101e7cccfb27855229e792c9d18b4/original/al.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Billy Blue Records in Nashville has announced the signing of Alan Bibey & Grasstowne to the label. </p>
<p>Bibey met with principals Jerry Salley and Ed Leonard during SPBGMA weekend, and toured the Billy Blue facilities, coming away with a confident belief that this was a good move for him and the band. The work Jerry and Ed have done of late with acts like Appalachian Road Show, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, and Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver convinced Alan that he had found a good home. </p>
<p>“We are thrilled to be joining Ed Leonard and Jerry Salley as well as the entire Billy Blue family. I’ve always been a huge fan of Jerry’s singing and songwriting. The great success of Billy Blue Records in a relatively short amount of time is quite remarkable but not surprising if you know these folks. We are honored to be a part of this organization and really excited about the new music we will be creating in this partnership.” </p>
<p>Though he has been near the top among bluegrass mandolinists since hitting the scene with New Quicksilver in 1986, and again with IIIrd Tyme Out in 1991, Al has seen a strong surge in popularity in this past few years. He was named the IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year in 2019, and Mandolin Performer of the Year earlier this month by SPBGMA, as he had the two prior years as well. Grasstowne’s recent Gospel project, Gonna Rise & Shine, sent a number of songs to the top of our Bluegrass Today charts, and has thrilled audiences since tracks began releasing in 2018. </p>
<p>Jerry Salley, who serves as A&R/Creative Director for Billy Blue, says that they are ready to get to work soon on new music with this talented artist. </p>
<p>“Bluegrass veteran, Alan Bibey, is easily one of the very best mandolin players in our genre of all time. It is an honor to have the opportunity to work with such a talent and with his incredible band, Grasstowne, one of the top groups in our industry. </p>
<p>We are very excited about our musical journey together and are making plans for new music to be released very soon.” </p>
<p>Grasstowne also includes Zak McLamb on bass, Justin Jenkins on banjo, and Tony Watt on guitar. </p>
<p>We’ll be sure to update when more Alan Bibey & Grasstowne news hits from Billy Blue.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/62131672019-12-12T14:15:00-05:002020-10-20T16:27:37-04:00Alan Bibey celebrated with hometown concert Posted on December 12, 2019 By John Lawless<p>When Alan Bibey was announced as the 2019 Mandolin Player of the Year during the IBMA Awards show in Raleigh, no one was applauding louder than his home folks in Danbury and Stokes County, NC. Those good people have had his back since he was just a youngster 40 years ago entering mandolin competitions while growing up near Walnut Cove. </p>
<p>Alan tells us that when he had a chance to talk to some of after the show, they told him that they were all watching on facebook, and were surprised he didn’t hear them yelling all the way in Raleigh! </p>
<p>Despite his active and long-running career, including being a founding member of IIIrd Tyme Out, being called upon by the departing members of Quicksilver to form New Quicksilver in 1986, and his helming of the band Grasstowne since 2006, Bibey had never before even been nominated for mandolin by the IBMA. Fortunately, that oversight was corrected this year. </p>
<p>But Alan says it didn’t bothered him that his peers never chose to recognize him. </p>
<p>“It was a big surprise when they called my name. This year I was happy just to be nominated. </p>
<p>Going down the aisle to accept, Sam Bush stopped me and gave me a big hug. That was huge. And then up on stage, Phil Leadbetter grabbed me from behind and said, ‘I told you so.'” </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/b1885fcb66e555624fbca67ed0ebca1daff5e770/original/img-3774hdre.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Those home folks in North Carolina are remembering Alan’s win this weekend with a welcome home concert and mandolin workshop this Saturday at The Arts Place in Danbury NC. Alan Bibey & Grasstowne will perform in concert at 3:30 p.m., which will include an onstage interview of Alan conducted by Eddy McGee, and a post show meet-and-greet with the band. Bibey will conduct a mandolin workshop from 1:00-2:00 p.m., limited to 20 students. </p>
<p>And he says that being remembered in your home town is a big deal. </p>
<p>“All the folks in Stokes County have supported me since I was a kid. Growing up, my dad was always behind me, but some of them didn’t like the idea of me making a career in music. But I could always count on my dad. </p>
<p>I remember seeing Monroe when I was 5. My daddy said he had to put me on his shoulders so I could see. They were playing on a flat bed truck. When I got home, I told my dad that this was what I wanted to do. So he took me back in the bedroom and showed me a few things I could do on his mandolin. He told me that when I got better than him, he would start learning to play banjo. I’ll never forget the day he told me that he was going to get a banjo. </p>
<p>My dad said that when I was a kid, when we went into the fiddler’s conventions, he would see the other parents shake their heads, knowing that I would win. But that’s all I did was pick – pick and play ball, basketball and baseball, all the way through high school. </p>
<p>I was picking tobacco from the time I was 5. Back then, I was the water boy, bringing water out to the barn. My mom’s parents grew tobacco, and when I could actually help out, I would spend my days priming tobacco starting at 5:00 in the morning, and going all day for $18. So when I could win $5 at a convention, that was a big deal!” </p>
<p>Alan also believes that winning Mandolin Player of the Year has already helped him professionally. </p>
<p>“Grasstowne is already getting more and better gigs for 2020. Winning IBMA seems to have made a big difference in our visibility. Promoters I have worked with for years have been treating us with more credibility. And I’ve had camps call me that I’ve never heard from before.” </p>
<p>With Bibey in Grasstowne are Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zac McLamb on bass, Tony Watt on guitar, and Laura Orshaw on fiddle. </p>
<p>Folks in Stokes County can show up and congratulate Alan this Saturday, December 15. Ticket information can be found on the Arts Place web site, or by calling 336-593-8159.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/62132222019-10-10T12:35:00-04:002020-02-12T14:18:14-05:00A BANNER YEAR FOR BIBEY - 10/10/2019 - Wilson Pickins Promotions<p>Being nominated for any award by our peers for doing something we love is always a humbling experience. Especially when you are in a category among friends and people that you have known and admired for years. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/2a64a3840ab2409cf2bbbf778a1f8ca1cf833429/original/img-3956cine.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Actually winning the award is a feeling that is unlike any other. </p>
<p>Taking home this year’s IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year award was an extremely meaningful experience for highly respected, veteran picker, Alan Bibey. 2019 marked a fantastic year filled with chart topping hits from his first all Gospel release with Grasstowne, “Gonna Rise and Shine,” on Morning Glory Music, the new Gospel label owned by Mountain Fever Records. Bibey also took home his fifth win for the SPBGMA Mandolin Player of the Year in February, joined by two of his Grasstowne bandmates, Laura Orshaw for fiddle and Zak McLamb for bass. </p>
<p>Winning the IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year award was a very unexpected surprise to add on top of the excitement this year has already produced. It seems like everyone in bluegrass, musicians, industry professionals and others in the category alike agreed that Alan Bibey was a most deserving recipient of the award. More than a week later, the congratulations are still coming in and when we caught up with Alan on the road, he had this to say: </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/541edf222e6529b1475963df1e818347c62dada1/original/b-w1sic2l6zsisim1lzgl1bsjdxq.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />“I want to say another huge THANK YOU to all The IBMA voting members for the Mandolin Player Of The Year award. I never dreamed I would win but I have always dreamed of being the best mandolin player I can be and I’ll continue this passion with even more fervor than ever and do my best to make you all proud of your decision. It means more to me than words can express!” </p>
<p>Bibey will be back in the studio after the first of the year to work on his next bluegrass project that he hopes to release by Spring of 2020 and also looks to record a mandolin instrumental project. With the success and love shown for “Gonna Rise and Shine,” he indicated that we should not be surprised to see another Gospel project in the next few years as well. Alan also keeps busy with his popular music camp, the 5th Annual Alan Bibey Mandolin and Guitar Camp will be held Aug 19-22, 2020 in Surfside Beach, and has grown into a very well attended event. Of course, touring with Grasstowne takes up a large chunk of time and he looks forward to seeing all of his friends and making new ones out on the road. </p>
<p>We are certainly proud to have Alan carry the title of 2019 IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year, and look forward to reaping the rewards of many more years of his selfless contributions to this music that we all love. They are music to our ears. Thank you Alan. </p>
<p> </p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/62132242019-06-13T10:55:00-04:002020-10-20T16:28:44-04:00ALAN BIBEY & GRASSTOWNE APPRECIATES YOUR IBMA 2ND BALLOT CONSIDERATION<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/741f95842cef37ea7abaca8549f896cb2c0f0dff/original/img-4217shdrc.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><strong>Alan Bibey & Grasstowne received twelve nominations on the IBMA 2nd Ballot!<br>We appreciate your consideration and look forward to seeing you soon! </strong></p>
<p>We can't tell you how blessed and grateful we feel this year! Grasstowne has just released our first full-length gospel project, and it has already far surpassed our wildest dreams! </p>
<p>Specifically, the title track "Gonna Rise and Shine" has meant so much to us personally, and we're so glad to know that others have found a blessing in it too. We love Barney Rogers for writing such a great song, and we are also thrilled with our brand new all-gospel label, Morning Glory Music. We cannot thank the DJs and fans enough for helping us share this song. </p>
<p>While we appreciated your support on the Gospel Song of the Year category ONCE, with the reissue of the 2nd Ballots in the category, we hope you will consider casting your votes in our direction one more time. Your support and loyalty is what keeps us going and we are so grateful! </p>
<p>Thank you and God Bless you all, <br>Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/f97187c90f6c6475c94ddb251fa484f704367541/original/alanbibey-grasstowne-rise-shine-cover.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><strong>"Gonna Rise and Shine,"</strong> the brand new all Gospel album released on the new <strong>Morning Glory Music</strong> label has proven to be an enormous success already for Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. So far, they have so far only released two singles, and we expect a lot more great things from this amazing and inspirational album stacked full of smooth vocals and instrumental prowess from front to back. </p>
<p>Proving to have made their stamp early on with their new project, the band earned 12 nominations on the 2nd IBMA Awards Ballot and appreciated your votes. </p>
<p>GONNA RISE AND SHINE has been at #1 - 11 Times on the Bluegrass Today Gospel Chart! It has been on the chart a total of 35 weeks since it's release! </p>
<p>WHEN JESUS SWINGS THE WRECKING BALL has been at #1 - 8 Times on the Bluegrass Today Gospel Chart! It has been on the chart a total of 22 weeks since it's release!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Thank you once again for your consideration in casting your votes for Alan Bibey & Grasstowne in the following categories: </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">INSTRUMENTAL GROUP OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">SONG OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> GONNA RISE AND SHINE <br> Artist: Alan Bibey & Grasstowne <br> Writer: Barney Rogers </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">GOSPEL RECORDING OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> GONNA RISE AND SHINE <br> Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">WHEN JESUS SWINGS THE WRECKING BALL <br> Alan Bibey & Grasstowne </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR <br>Alan Bibey </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">BANJO PLAYER OF THE YEAR <br>Justin Jenkins </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">BASS PLAYER OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Zak McLamb </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">FIDDLE PLAYER OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Laura Orshaw </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">GUITAR PLAYER OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Tony Watt </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">MANDOLIN PLAYER OF THE YEAR </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> Alan Bibey</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/57652332019-04-23T10:45:00-04:002020-10-20T16:29:42-04:00Tony Watt to Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Posted on April 23, 2019 By John Lawless<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/4fd6259875405d1e59b080d9834f2e4d5d91591b/original/tony-1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Alan Bibey has announced the latest member of Grasstowne – Tony Watt, from Boston, has joined the group on guitar. </p>
<p>Tony’s entreé to the band was a direct one. His wife, Laura Orshaw, is their fiddler, and when Mike Bentley stepped aside from his guitar role in Grasstowne, Tony was right there, ready to go. Of course, it helps that he is a first rate guitarist, and an experienced bluegrass professional. </p>
<p>Together, Tony and Laura teach a full schedule of string music students in and around Boston, offering both private lessons and group classes. Tony is also deeply involved with the Boston Bluegrass Union, and has been an instructor at numerous camps and workshops around New England. He also serves as host for the annual Jamvember pickin’ party held each fall in Framingham, where northeastern grassers get one last jamming weekend in before the cold weather takes hold. </p>
<p>He tells us that joining up with Alan is a dream gig for him. </p>
<p>“I am beyond thrilled to be joining Alan Bibey & Grasstowne! I have been a huge fan of Alan’s for a long time, and it’s incredibly meaningful for me to get to play his songs on stage with him. I have been listening to and jamming on his songs for years, such as County Fool (from In the Blue Room) and Knee Deep in Bluegrass (from the AcuTab Sessions album of the same name). I have also followed Zak McLamb and Justin Jenkins for years, and I am so honored to be able to make music with them. And of course, I saved the best for last – being able to make music with a band this talented that includes my wife, Laura Orshaw, singing and playing the fiddle, is literally a dream come true! </p>
<p>Thanks so much to Alan, Zak, Justin, and especially Laura, for being willing to put up with me on the road!” </p>
<p>The group has an exciting 2019 on tap, riding high on the success of their first two singles from an upcoming Gospel project on Mountain Fever Records. Gonna Rise and Shine, and old school bluegrass Gospel number has spent 33 weeks on our Weekly Gospel Airplay Chart, 9 of them at #1. The most recent single, When Jesus Swings The Wrecking Ball has started moving up the chart as well, clocking in at #2 this week. </p>
<p>You can keep up with Grasstowne online, or on their Facebook page.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/56972352019-01-24T19:10:00-05:002020-10-19T17:37:48-04:00When Jesus Swings The Wrecking Ball from Grasstowne Posted on January 24, 2019 By John Lawless<p>Mountain Fever Records has released a second single for their upcoming Gospel album with Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. </p>
<p>This time it’s a new song in the old time way, reminiscent of the sacred numbers Flatt & Scruggs always made a part of their shows in the ’50s. Here Grasstowne banjo man Justin Jenkins lays down the Scruggs-style guitar, with just mandolin and bass accompaniment. Back in the day, radio listeners in the Protestant south found banjo and fiddle too profane for spiritual music, so Earl modified his 3-finger approach to the banjo for the guitar. </p>
<p>Bibey, who sings the lead, shared a few words about this one and how it came to the band. </p>
<p>“We were lucky enough to get When Jesus Swings The Wrecking Ball from a couple of my favorite songwriters, Donna Ulisse and Rick Stanley. When I first heard the song, I loved it and immediately asked Donna if they would put a hold on it for us. I knew that would fit the Scruggs fingerstyle guitar we try to do on a few songs. We hope everyone likes it, and thanks Donna and Rick!!”</p>
<p>You can almost hear Lester sending that one out to all their sick and shut in friends. </p>
<p>Vocal harmonies are provided by fiddler, Laura Orshaw, and guitarist, Mike Bentley. Zak McLamb is on bass. </p>
<p>When Jesus Swings His Wrecking Ball is available now from Apple Music and iTunes. Radio programmers can get a copy through AirPlay Direct.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/56972392018-08-31T19:15:00-04:002019-03-27T19:14:40-04:00Gonna Rise and Shine video from Grasstowne Posted on August 31, 2018 By John Lawless<p>Gonna Rise And Shine from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne has been tearing up our Bluegrass Today Weekly Gospel AirPlay chart this past few weeks, spending the last two at #1. </p>
<p>It’s an old time, 4 part Gospel number written by Barney Rogers which Alan tells us has been a sensation for the band since it was released in June. The song has been getting a great deal of attention in both bluegrass and Gospel circles, and selling well as a single online. </p>
<p>Bibey brought a video crew out from Solid Rock Productions to where he lives near Myrtle Beach, SC to film in the early morning haze as the sun came up over the Atlantic ocean. It makes for a powerful visual presentation alongside the music. </p>
<p>This song means a lot to Alan, with its theme of resurrection, as he recently lost his father, James, following a long illness. James was a mentor to his son, and drove him all over the southeastern US when Al was a boy to attend festivals and conventions while he was learning to play the mandolin. He was also a friend to everyone in bluegrass, with a welcoming smile and a good word for all. </p>
<p>Al said that he just managed to make it home from Colorado when his father was in his last days, and was able to comfort him with his mandolin playing in the hospital. </p>
<p>“When I got there he was unresponsive, but when I started playing the mandolin he tried to sit up. He knew I was there and the music moved him.” </p>
<p>And this track was the last thing he heard as he was crossing over.</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/UUmQYMEHbf8" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/064d0d8f66e75a0b17469ca169803412d648f1af/original/vid-pic-rise-and-shine.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a></p>
<p>Video production was provided by Shane and Debra Leonard, co-owners of Solid Rock Productions. </p>
<p>Grasstowne is Bibey on mandolin, Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zack McLamb on bass, Mike Bentley on guitar, and Laura Orshaw on fiddle.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/56972372018-06-26T19:15:00-04:002020-10-20T16:30:31-04:00Gonna Rise and Shine drops for Alan Bibey & Grasstowne Posted on June 26, 2018 By John Lawless<p>Mountain Fever Records isn’t wasting any time getting the newest iteration of Alan Bibey & Grasstowne out to the fans. </p>
<p>The reformed-for-2018 band introduced their new look and sound at the SPBGMA National Convention this past February, and a debut single from their upcoming Gospel project is released today online. </p>
<p>Gonna Rise and Shine features Grasstowne fearless leader Bibey on the lead vocal and mandolin, supported by Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass, Mike Bentley on guitar, and Laura Orshaw on fiddle. The song was contributed by Barney Rogers from Raleigh, NC </p>
<p>“Barney sent this one to me and I knew right away it would fit us perfectly. We recorded it earlier this year at Maggie’s Crib Studio in Surfside Beach, SC.”</p>
<p>The single is available now through all the popular download sites, and to radio programmers through AirPlay Direct.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/53202572018-06-26T13:30:00-04:002018-06-27T13:29:26-04:00New Gospel Album Coming This Fall <p>WILLIS, Va. — Mountain Fever Records announces new music from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne is available today. "Gonna Rise And Shine" is the first single from an all-gospel album due later this fall. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/be441b9555c806eb480e5555f82c99826176297d/original/gonna-rise-and-shine.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>Lauded as one of the finest mandolin players in recent decades, Alan Bibey has proven himself a viable band leader and vocalist, as well. On Grasstowne's newest single, "Gonna Rise & Shine," Bibey presents a strong lead vocal supported by Grasstowne members Justin Jenkins(banjo), Zak McLamb (bass/baritone vocal), Laura Orshaw (fiddle, tenor vocal) and Mike Bentley (bass vocal). Bibey triples his song duties here with the guitar track, as well. Written by Barney Rogers, "Gonna Rise And Shine" is a lively gospel number that will have even non-believers tapping their toes. </p>
<p>“I’m excited for everyone to hear the single "Gonna Rise & Shine" as well as this entire Gospel project," says Bibey. "The first time I heard this song I knew it was special and a true Bluegrass Gospel song.” </p>
<p>"Gonna Rise And Shine" is available as a digital download through the most <a contents="popular music outlets" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmountain-fever-records.lnk.to%2FeUANAFA&h=AT3O_RWDsb7lpFXIkRidCu0EcDe299ASwPDt79z5QyzfMZfyYM9Ky1wzpi6esMqlCBttncOWYi4K0uhKS_HkRrJ_FcwMl-RJSHL7RNgDji9yv1p3vF6Xdt9eM1hKtBabZB15CcL9vBNkSr8N9L_SYcE44sLQjEhfYtcUS_sK8VQ01W3h5NM" target="_blank">popular music outlets</a>. Radio programmers can download the single via <a contents="AirplayDirect&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://airplaydirect.com/ABGRise" target="_blank">AirplayDirect </a>or request a digital download by emailing radio@mountainfever.com. For more information on Alan Bibey & Grasstowne, visit <a contents="www.grasstowne.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://grasstowne.com/home" target="_blank">www.grasstowne.com</a> and www.MountainFever.com. For booking and publicity please contact <a contents="Wilson Pickins Promotions" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://wilsonpickins.com/contact" target="_blank">Wilson Pickins Promotions</a> at <a contents="wilsonpickins@gmail.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:wilsonpickins@gmail.com" target="_blank">wilsonpickins@gmail.com</a>.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/52776682018-06-05T18:22:00-04:002020-09-15T15:00:43-04:00Justin Jenkins back with Grasstowne Posted on June 5, 2018 By John Lawless<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/4fccb0b2d3d2c3771e739f7621111d0aa11c3fd0/original/dsc-0136-copy.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><span class="font_large">Alan Bibey has made a personnel change in his revised and re-energized Grasstowne. Owing to her expanding commitments with Sister Sadies, Gena Britt has had to step aside from the band, and Al has welcomed former banjo picker Justin Jenkins back into the fold. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The five-piece group now boasts of Bibey on mandolin, and Jenks on banjo, with Mike Bentley on guitar, Zak McLamb on bass, and Laura Orshaw on fiddle. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Al says that they are sorry to see Gena leave. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>“We’ve happened upon the problem of Alan Bibey & Grasstowne and Sister Sadie having too many dates to make it feasible for Gena to do both anymore. That’s a great problem to have, but we will miss Gena. She’s one of our dearest friends and will always be. We are happy to have Justin Jenkins back as a full time member of the band. Just was with us for about 5 years before Gena came aboard.” </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">He also says that they are about half way through tracking for a new Gospel project, with a debut single, Gonna Rise & Shine, due later this month. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Since debuting the new group this year at SPBGMA, Grasstowne has been working steady all over the country, with a west coast and a Colorado trip on the horizon. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Visit them online to see where they will be playing next.</span></p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/52472222018-01-26T16:15:00-05:002018-05-21T16:15:59-04:00New look for Grasstowne in 2018 Posted on January 26, 2018 By John Lawless<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/1eeb18e86149e88cabbd33b70ba133031a63f900/original/bibey2.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />When Alan Bibey & Grasstowne roll into SPBGMA next weekend, the band will have a new look. Al has picked up a couple of heavy hitters to add to the band, and with a new all-Gospel project in the works for Mountain Fever Records, 2018 is shaping up to be a good year for Grasstowne. </p>
<p>Now on guitar will be Mike Bentley, who will also serve as a lead singer. With both Alan and banjoist Gina Britt contributing as singers, the band will boast of three distinctive and quite diverse vocalists. </p>
<p>Mike’s new solo album, All I’ve Got, has been generating a good bit of attention, and he is likely to add a few of those numbers to the Grasstowne repertoire. As best as schedules allow, he will also continue to perform with Cumberland Gap Connection. </p>
<p>Coming in on fiddle will be Laura Orshaw, who has been burning up the bluegrass scene in Boston where she is living. Working lately with Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass, and a handful of Boston-based groups, she is also a veteran vocalist, so you can expect to hear her render a few with Grasstowne as well. </p>
<p>Zak McLamb on bass completes the touring band. </p>
<p>They are set to play the main stage at SPBGMA on Saturday evening, and Alan says the new sound is mighty powerful. Be sure to catch them if you are in attendance.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/52472002017-11-14T16:15:00-05:002018-05-21T16:14:13-04:00Bibey & Grasstowne to Wilson Pickins<p>Posted on November 14, 2016 By John Lawless</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/63dad60b45c895ffc7ceb25e10f583739fb9bc5d/original/alan-th.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p><a contents="Wilson Pickins Bluegrass Promotions" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://wilsonpickins.com/home" target="_blank">Wilson Pickins Bluegrass Promotions</a> is taking over the world! It seems that Melanie Wilson adds a new band to her roster every few days. </p>
<p>Today she has announced the signing of Alan Bibey & Grasstowne to the agency for representation and publicity services. The band has been a going concern for ten years now, with Bibey only recently taking full charge of the group and putting his name out front. </p>
<p>His current band includes a number of stellar bluegrass artists, with Bibey on mandolin and lead vocals. Greg Luck is on guitar, Gena Britt on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass, and Courtney Rorrer on fiddle. Gena, Greg, and Courtney are all first-rate singers as well, giving Grasstowne a wide variety of sounds and styles they can cover, not to mention the strong material on their current release, Grasstowne 4. </p>
<p>They join a large and growing number of artists working with Wilson Pickins, like The Edgar Loudermilk Band, Kim Robins, Kristi Stanley, Shannon Slaughter & County Clare, Mike Bentley & Cumberland Gap Connection, Tyler Williams, Jim & Lynna Woolsey, and several others. </p>
<p>Here’s a video Grasstowne put together recently featuring several numbers from their current stage set. </p>
<p>For information on bringing Grasstowne to your event, contact Wilson Pickins online.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44578952016-11-08T17:22:12-05:002016-11-08T17:22:12-05:004 – Alan Bibey & Grasstowne John Lawless | November 3, 2015<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/859a94af5fd49f70b5fb06bd302f2148a1d2793e/medium/grasstowne-album-cover.png?1478640301" class="size_m justify_left border_" />What’s up with Grasstowne? That’s a question I’ve heard more than a few times this past few years. </p>
<p>Founder and mandolinist Alan Bibey has seen a lot of changes with this band in the nine years since they formed as a partnership between he, Steve Gulley, and Phil Leadbetter. Bibey’s partners peeled off over the years to follow their own solo efforts, but Al has consistently found new members to keep his vision of a contemporary/traditional bluegrass outfit in clear view. </p>
<p>In fact, about three years ago he had such a strong group together that all the guys made a pact to stick together for at least five years to see how far they could go as a team. But you know what they say about best laid plans. Soon fiddler Adam Haynes was gone to The Grascals, singer Blake Johnson moved to IIIrd Tyme Out, and bass man Kameron Keller was with Junior Sisk. Suddenly it was just Alan and ace banjo picker Justin Jenkins. </p>
<p>But through all this time, Grasstowne had been recording, and the results can be seen in Grasstowne 4, undoubtedly the finest album they’ve ever made under this name. The tracks on this new Mountain Fever release cover several years of the band’s history, with contributions from former members Haynes, Keller, and Johnson, plus now-departed vocalists Dustin Pyrtle and Shannon Slaughter, and guests Ronnie Bowman, Dwight McCall, and Ron Stewart. </p>
<p>Alan Bibey has now put his name on the band, in both the literal and figurative senses of the word. Rebranded now as Alan Bibey & Grasstowne, Al tackles the bulk of the lead singing on this project, and his voice comes across as strong and mature, something he says he has worked on consistently this past few years. He’s also a primary songwriter here, with four of the twelve songs being his co-writes. I guess it really is his band. </p>
<p>Bibey’s voice was always far better than serviceable, but the bump in his confidence is on display throughout Grasstowne 4. Right from the opening track, an Elmer Burchette number with a nasty groove called Cry Baby Cry, Alan delivers the mean right on cue. He’s just as strong on more traditional fare, taking the lead on You Can Feel It Your Soul, which Flatt & Scruggs had cut in the early ’60s. Justin Jenkins lays down a solid Scruggs-style guitar on that one as well. </p>
<p>I’m Country reunites Alan with a song he had recorded in his first high-profile gig with New Quicksilver in 1985, one written by Wes Golding who had recorded it previously with the Shenandoah Cut Ups. </p>
<p>The first of Bibey’s originals to appear is Look What I’ve Done To Me, a co-write with Ronnie Bowman. It’s an upbeat song that takes a hard look at the mistakes the singer has made. Dwight McCall adds a fine tenor vocal. Cold Dark Ground, from Bibey, Bowman and Mark Collie, was released two years ago as a single and was prominent on our Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay chart, ending up as the #20 track for all of 2014. Blake Johnson sings it here, a beautiful rendition in every way. </p>
<p>Alan adds swingy singing to his repertoire on You Let Me Down, yet another written with Bowman. This is a fun song where Bibey’s mandolin also shines, as does Jenkins’ Crowe-inflected banjo. Former guitarist Shannon Slaughter sings high lead on Can’t Stop The Rain, a fast moving trio arrangement with another wicked mandolin break. </p>
<p>The album’s other prior release is This Old Guitar and Me, sung by the inimitable Ronnie Bowman, as smooth a male voice as bluegrass has ever seen. Grasstowne cut this one back when Haynes and Pyrtle were still in the band. An easy-going, mid-tempo ballad, it also did quite well with bluegrass radio in 2013 when it hit. </p>
<p>Heaven comes next, a lovely Gospel waltz from north Alabama songwriter Stacey Peek. It’s performed by Alan and Shannon and Heather Slaughter, with just mandolin and guitar accompaniment. The simplicity of the arrangement serves this heartfelt testimony just right. </p>
<p>The last two tracks may be my favorites on the record, both well familiar to those who have followed bluegrass for years. Worried Man Blues gets a super driving delivery from Jenks’ opening break to the last note of the ending. This is straight bluegrass played by people who have it deep in their bones. Bibey sings lead with McCall again on tenor. If anyone can find a fault with this one, your ears are better than mine. It’s textbook. </p>
<p>Drawing this to a close is a grassy version of Kris Kristofferson’s Darby’s Castle. Shannon takes the lead and entirely sells this distinctly tragic story of a man so obsessed by his vision to create something for the woman he loved, that he forgot to be present in her life. The band gives the song a reading reminiscent of the ’70s New South, and again, is note perfect. </p>
<p>We can’t finish without some mention of the picking on this album. Though most comment here has been about Bibey’s strong vocal work, one could never forget that it was his stellar mandolin playing that first brought him to wide attention. Each track shows again why he is held in such high regard, with carefully constructed solos appropriate to every song. Banjo man Jenkins is also a standout, on the CD’s lone instrumental, the old timer Old Hen, often known as Cluck Old Hen, and on the various vocal numbers in turn. </p>
<p>Special kudos to Ron Stewart, whose fiddle is as spot on as ever, but even more so for his rhythm and lead guitar which drives the band on nearly every track. We all know what a superb fiddler and banjo player Ron is from his work with Lynn Morris, J.D. Crowe, and The Boxcars, though many fewer recognize his expertise on every other bluegrass instrument as well. Flatpickers will find a reason to resent him on this album. </p>
<p>Grasstowne 4 is available now from digital resellers, from the band web site, and at any of their live shows. Radio programmers can download tracks now from Airplay Direct. </p>
<p>They will be celebrating the release this Friday night (11/6) at Nashville’s Station Inn with a performance by the current edition of the band. Bibey will be on mandolin, with Gena Britt on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass, Courtney Rorer on fiddle, and Greg Luck on guitar (Justin Jenkins is on vacation). Look for them to pick and sing songs from the new CD, with some special guests expected. </p>
<p>Anyone who appreciates contemporary bluegrass played with precision, soul, and authority will want this one in their library.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44578962016-11-08T17:22:00-05:002016-11-08T17:22:00-05:00“Alan Bibey & Grasstowne 4” moves up the charts!<p>Thanks so much to the fans and DJs for making our brand new album #6 on the Roots Music Report Top 50 Album Chart!!<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/aa01eb7bd018ea1b3d3bebad2bedc52eb91c3f6f/medium/12294886-959491860790701-3732056593083326989-n-e1456759651749-228x300.jpg?1478640527" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44580002016-11-08T17:21:26-05:002020-10-20T16:33:51-04:00Alan Bibey & Grasstowne CD Release Party and Show<p>Alan Bibey & Grasstowne are excited to announce that they will officially release their highly anticipated CD “Alan Bibey & Grasstowne 4” with Mountain Fever Records, at the world famous Station Inn, Nashville, TN on November 6th at 9:oo pm. You do not want to miss Alan and Grasstowne as they introduce and perform songs from their new project. Find them after the show at the merchandise table to purchase your copy of “Alan Bibey & Grasstowne 4” and any other Grasstowne favorites you may have. $15.00 cover charge at the door. </p>
<p>If you are interested in booking Alan Bibey and Grasstowne, please “Contact Us” here on the website or email Alan Bibey at loar1923@gmail.com. </p>
<p>For more information on The Station Inn, visit their website at www.stationinn.com.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579902016-11-08T16:54:37-05:002020-10-20T16:31:33-04:00“Grasstowne 4” Now Available!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/859a94af5fd49f70b5fb06bd302f2148a1d2793e/medium/grasstowne-album-cover.png?1478640301" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><br>The long anticipated new Grasstowne project, “Grasstowne 4”, with Mountain Fever Records, is now available. The Great Ron Stewart helped produce and also played on the album. Grasstowne would like to thank everyone for their support and encouragement for the past three years especially while we have been working hard to do what we love and make the best music we possibly can. Visit our online shop to purchase your copy now!</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579892016-11-08T16:52:06-05:002020-10-19T17:36:21-04:00Cold Dark Ground is hit from new project “Grasstowne 4”<p>“Cold Dark Ground” from the new project “Grasstowne 4” hit #1 on the Bluegrass Today Charts and was the most played track on Sirius/XM Radio in March 2014. Thanks again to all the great DJ’s at Sirius/XM Radio and the fans for the endless support! There are more hits to come! Get your copy of “Grasstowne 4” today.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/aa4d18e45998f0dad2a4ee44cfe636fad5f5dd21/medium/grasstowne-bt-chart.jpg?1478641909" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579882016-11-08T16:50:35-05:002020-10-20T16:35:21-04:00New look for Grasstowne John Lawless | December 17, 2014<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/4ba5ea537b85befb0b11be055ae32f10d2234eed/small/grasstowne.jpg?1478641810" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Grasstowne will have a new look and sound for 2015. Mandolinist and bandleader Alan Bibey says that they will be going as a four piece, reuniting him with some of his old bluegrass buddies. </p>
<p>Justin Jenkins will remain on banjo, with Gena Britt coming in to play bass, and Jimmy Haley on guitar. All four will share in the vocals. This is certain to be a mighty powerful rhythm section, with all the drive you could want in a bluegrass band. </p>
<p>These four are heading into the studio in January to add three new tracks to what is already recorded for the Grasstowne 4 album project. Look for that in the Spring, with plans for them to start work later in 2015 on an all new project with this band. </p>
<p>Bibey said that he and Justin are psyched to get started next year, and wish their recently departed bandmates the best.<br> </p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><em>“We are really excited to have Jimmy Haley and Gena Britt in the band! They are some of our favorite people and<br>some of the best musicians ever in bluegrass. We all have the same vision for the band and that’s really<br>critical to keeping a unit together. Gena will still be doing select dates with their great<br>Sister Sadie Band, but her main focus will be with Grasstowne. </em></p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><em>I want to wish Kameron Keller and Shannon Slaughter all the very best. They’re both top notch in our book!<br>Kameron is now with Junior Sisk, and Shannon fronts his own band, County Clare.”</em><br> </p>
<p>You can get a first look at the new Grasstowne when they perform at the SPBGMA festival February 6-7. The full tour schedule for 2015 will be posted online.<br><br><a contents="http://bluegrasstoday.com/new-look-for-grasstowne/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://bluegrasstoday.com/new-look-for-grasstowne/" target="_blank">http://bluegrasstoday.com/new-look-for-grasstowne/</a></p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579382016-11-08T16:46:00-05:002020-10-20T16:36:02-04:00Hoffee Carbon Fiber Cases<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/5f77362a4bf8bce25c7c6f2066348a7ee554746e/small/img-2935-e1418962376874-200x300.jpg?1478641532" class="size_s justify_left border_" /><br>Grasstowne’s Alan Bibey is proud to endorse Hoffee Carbon Fiber Cases. In just a few short years Hoffee has become the premier builder of carbon fiber cases for Mandolins, guitars and banjos. Each Hoffee Case is hand built in the USA through a state-of-the-art process using the highest quality products available. Not only are the cases beautifully crafted, but also well insulated to protect against all the bumps of a musician’s travels. For more information please visit www.carbonfibercases.com.</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579372016-11-08T16:44:38-05:002020-10-20T16:36:48-04:00Bluegrass Junction’s Most-Played Track<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/eb4a9b8978f7dbf5cf83d241c91f5daa6b02284e/medium/junction-th.jpg?1478641456" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Thanks again to all the great DJ’s at Sirius/XM Radio and the fans for making our latest single the most played track for the month of March 2014! <br><br>We are blown away by it! Thanks so much for the support!</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579352016-11-08T16:42:50-05:002020-10-20T16:37:30-04:00Alan Bibey & Wayne Benson – The Mandolin Chronicles<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/e39a17dda92c17fca5e7545529782f0e76a42c24/medium/bibeybenson1.jpg?1478641347" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" /><br>Alan Bibey and Wayne Benson, two of the greatest living award winning mandolin players, have joined together to create some of the most exciting bluegrass music in recent history with, The Mandolin Chronicles. The album showcases the pair on ten instrumental tunes and one vocal tune, “Another Night,” featuring IIIrd Tyme Out’s Russell Moore. Bibey and Benson wrote six songs on the album, co-writing three of them. Other musicians joining them on the album include Ron Stewart on banjo and fiddle, Wyatt Rice on guitar, and Harold Nixon on bass. Pick up your copy today!</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579342016-11-08T16:38:07-05:002020-10-20T16:38:28-04:00Grasstowne with Ronnie Bowman<p>Grasstowne would also like to announce that we are booking shows for Grasstowne with Ronnie Bowman and that we plan to record a project to support these dates!!! </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/229561/2ea8cfe8251b2ecd5fb807047812534873335f85/medium/ronnie-bowman-300x225.jpg?1478641066" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><br>Stay tuned to this page for more updates on this new and exciting collaborative event!</p>Alan Bibey & Grasstownetag:grasstowne.com,2005:Post/44579322016-11-08T16:36:51-05:002016-11-08T16:36:51-05:00KICKIN’ UP DUST by Grasstowne <p><br>Kickin’ Up Dust – New Release <br>Release date: March 22, 2011</p>
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</tbody></table>Alan Bibey & Grasstowne