Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

Bristol Celebrates 23rd Annual Rhythm and Roots Reunion

Festival-goers enjoying live performances at the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion.

News Summary

This past weekend, Bristol hosted its 23rd annual Rhythm and Roots Reunion, drawing nearly 30,000 attendees. The festival celebrated the legacy of the 1927 Bristol Sessions with diverse performances from established artists and rising stars, creating an atmosphere of excitement and community. Renowned acts like Ashley McBryde and The Wallflowers headlined, while newcomers like Wyatt Ellis showcased their talents. As the festival concluded, anticipation for next year’s event on September 19-21, 2024, began to build.

Bristol Rocks with Rhythm and Roots Reunion!

This past weekend, the charming city of bristol lit up with the sound of music as the much-anticipated Rhythm and Roots Reunion wrapped up its 23rd annual country music festival. From September 13 to 15, an astounding nearly 30,000 music lovers poured into the area, creating an atmosphere brimming with excitement and melody.

A Celebration of Music and Community

The festival, known for its lively atmosphere and talented performers, celebrated the legacy of the famous 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings, which helped shape the country music genre we know and love today. Festival-goers were treated to a fantastic lineup featuring a vast array of artists and styles spread across several stages, ensuring plenty of foot-tapping and two-stepping all weekend long.

Among the many attendees was Patrick Ferguson who traveled all the way from Gelnhausen, Germany to experience the festival for the very first time. It’s always inspiring to see people from all corners of the globe come together for their shared love of music.

Rising Stars and Legendary Performers

This year, the show kicked off with a bang on Friday, September 13, with renowned headliner Ashley McBryde lighting up the stage. Following her were acts like The Red Clay Strays, Wilderado, Dave Eggar, and Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, keeping the energy high. The day also showcased emerging talent, with fifteen-year-old bluegrass musician Wyatt Ellis and his band performing for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in his music career.

As the sun set on the festival’s opening day, a slew of other talented artists took to the stage, including Bella White, Jaime Wyatt, Holy Roller, Laid Back Country Picker, and Florencia & The Feeling. The diversity of performances throughout the day sparked incredible energy among attendees.

Saturday Surprises and Timeless Classics

The excitement continued on Saturday, September 14, with performances from the likes of Jim Lauderdale, Silverada, Logan Ledger, Brittney Spencer, and Dale Watson & His Lone Stars. The Wallflowers took the spotlight later in the day, delighting fans with an unforgettable encore that paid tribute to Tom Petty classics. Talk about a crowd-pleaser!

The Grand Finale

Grace Bowers & the Hodge Lodge and The SteelDrivers, among others. Each note played and every song sung left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be part of the weekend festivities.

Looking Ahead

As this year’s festival draws to a close, excitement is already building for the next installment, scheduled for September 19-21, 2024. Tickets are available now, and given the stellar line-up this year, fans are eagerly awaiting what’s to come!

Cindy Wagner from Kingsport summed it up perfectly when she expressed her enthusiasm for the weekend’s activities. With the sound of music still echoing through the streets and hearts of Bristol, it’s clear that the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion continues to be a beloved tradition that brings people together through the magical power of music.