Bristol Welcomes Music Lovers to the Rhythm and Roots Reunion
This weekend, the streets of Bristol, Tennessee, and Virginia came alive with music, laughter, and a strong sense of community as the annual Rhythm and Roots Reunion festival kicked off. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and a mix of talented artists, the festival has become a beloved tradition for many, but this year, it also drew in newcomers eager to see what all the fuss is about.
A Wonderful Atmosphere
Monte Bowen, visiting from Johnson City, shared why he loves the festival. “There’s the friendliness, beautiful music, and the beautiful atmosphere,” he said, beaming at the crowd around him. “And let’s not forget, the city is just gorgeous!”
Among the first-timers was Michael Schexnayder from San Diego. He had heard about the festival for years but had never had the chance to attend. “I’ve always heard of it, wanted to check it out. A good friend of mine said, ‘Hey, you’ve got to go.’”
International excitement was also in the air. Andres Diaz and his wife, Sandy, traveled all the way from Colombia to be part of the festivities. “We’ve heard it’s going to be one of the best music festivals in the country,” said Andres. “We’re excited to be here today and tomorrow and can’t wait to see what it has to offer!”
Festivities in Full Swing
The lineup of artists at the festival was another key highlight. Hannah Dasher, a Nashville artist, was one of the many performers who graced the stage this year. She noted the unique energy of the crowd. “What a good crowd with good energy,” she commented. “Virginia is my kind of crowd; East Tennessee is too.” Each note played echoed the collective joy felt by the audience.
Reviving the Old Days
This year marked a special occasion as artists created recordings reminiscent of the legendary 1927 Bristol Sessions. These recordings were produced for Paste Magazine, taking a trip down memory lane to capture the raw essence of Americana music. Brad Wagner, co-founder of the production company behind the recordings, elaborated on this exciting venture. “Ralph Peer came down from New York City in 1927 to capture Americana roots and country music at its source,” he explained. “We’re here revisiting that idea.”
Working alongside Wagner, his partner Juan Soria emphasized their commitment to authenticity. “We’re recording using just one microphone, trying to keep it as raw as possible,” said Soria. “We want to capture that vibe, just like they did back in the day.” The recordings are set to be featured on Paste Magazine’s YouTube page, allowing even those who couldn’t attend to share in the experience.
What’s Next for Festival-Goers?
As the festival flows into Sunday night, attendees can still grab tickets at the gate, ensuring everyone has the chance to join the festivities. Plus, for those looking ahead, tickets for the 2025 Rhythm and Roots Reunion are already available on their website—a testament to the enduring popularity of this beloved event.
This year’s Rhythm and Roots Reunion has solidified its place in both Bristol’s cultural landscape and the hearts of music lovers everywhere. The blend of familiar faces and welcoming newcomers leads to a wonderful celebration of community, friendship, and the unstoppable power of music.
So whether you’re a loyal festival-goer or a first-time attendee like many this year, the spirit of the Rhythm and Roots Reunion continues to thrive, promising memories that will last for years to come!
