Del McCoury
USA- American Bluegrass Musician: Del McCoury
- Early Life and Musical Beginnings
- Career with the Golden State Boys
- Family Band and Band Growth
- Grand Ole Opry and the Clearwater Concert
- Musical Legacy and Collaborations
- Festivals and Appearances
- DelFest Festival
- Independent Music Advocacy
- Continued Success and Legacy
American Bluegrass Musician: Del McCoury
Del McCoury is an American bluegrass musician who has established himself as a master of the genre over his 50+ years in the music industry. His band has enjoyed consistent popularity and McCoury now runs his own bluegrass festival.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
McCoury's love for bluegrass was sparked when he first heard Earl Scruggs perform. At a time when the public was captivated by Elvis, McCoury found more enjoyment in Scruggs' music. Initially a hired banjo player, McCoury became the lead vocalist and rhythm guitar player for Bill Monroe's "Blue Grass Boys." It was as a member of Monroe's group that McCoury made his debut at the "Grand Ole Opry."
Career with the Golden State Boys
McCoury later joined the "Golden State Boys." After a brief stint with them, he worked in construction and logging for a period of time. However, McCoury continued to perform in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Family Band and Band Growth
In the 1980s, McCoury's sons began performing with him. His eldest son, Ronnie, joined at the age of 14 to play mandolin. McCoury's younger son, Rob, joined the band on banjo five years later. In the early 1990s, Tad Marks and Mike Brantley joined the group, solidifying its lineup. The band toured extensively throughout the United States and eventually relocated to Nashville, Tennessee.
Grand Ole Opry and the Clearwater Concert
In October 2003, McCoury became a member of the "Grand Ole Opry." In 2005, Alan Bartram became the band's new bassist. On May 3, 2009, McCoury performed at "The Clearwater Concert" at Madison Square Garden, a celebration of Pete Seeger's 90th birthday.
Musical Legacy and Collaborations
McCoury's music has influenced a wide range of musicians and bands, including Phish, who have covered and performed with him. He has also shared the stage with The String Cheese Incident, Donna the Buffalo, and recorded with Steve Earle. His songs have been covered by artists such as Tom Petty, Richard Thompson, and The Lovin' Spoonful.
Festivals and Appearances
McCoury has performed at major concerts and festivals such as "Bonnaroo," "High Sierra," "Hardly Strictly Bluegrass," and the "Newport Folk Festival." He has also appeared on television shows like "The David Letterman Show" and "Conan O'Brien."
DelFest Festival
Since 2008, McCoury has hosted his own festival, "DelFest." Held in Cumberland, Maryland, it is an annual bluegrass festival that features performances by McCoury's band and other notable acts. The festival has hosted a diverse lineup, including Steve Martin, Steep Canyon Rangers, Yonder Mountain String Band, Leftover Salmon, and Bela Fleck.
Independent Music Advocacy
In June 2010, McCoury was awarded the Folk and Traditional Arts Lifetime Achievement Award, which included a substantial monetary prize. In 2012, he joined the judging panel for the annual "Independent Music Awards" to support and promote independent musicians.
Continued Success and Legacy
For nearly 50 years, Del McCoury has been synonymous with bluegrass, setting a high standard for the genre and amassing a loyal following. Despite his longevity, McCoury has maintained his passion and creativity, experimenting with new approaches while preserving the core elements of bluegrass. His consistent band lineup, prestigious accolades, and support from fellow musicians are testaments to his enduring legacy. McCoury's establishment of his own record label in 2003 has given him even greater control over his music, releasing award-winning albums by his band, Merle Haggard, and other esteemed artists.
