Crooked Road Celebrates 20 Years of Legacy Promoting Heritage Music in Southwest Virginia

The iconic music trail, The Crooked Road, is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of significant contributions to the creative economy in Southwest Virginia. The prestigious trail was established and acknowledged as Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail by the General Assembly in 2004, becoming a key cultural landmark of the region.

About The Crooked Road

The Crooked Road, stretching approximately 330 miles, follows U.S. Route 58, connecting major and minor venues through Southwest Virginia. These venues cherish and showcase the vibrant musical heritage deeply rooted in the region. Over time, it has grown to link about 10 major venues and 50 affiliate ones.

Besides its role as a physical trail, The Crooked Road constitutes an influential organization offering valuable programs such as marketing initiatives, live music performances along the trail, and educational services. Its expansive footprint covers 19 counties and four cities in the region of Southwest Virginia.

Impact on the Economy

Through extensive marketing and promotion initiatives for musicians, The Crooked Road has played a significant role as an economic driver, attracting both domestic and international tourists to the Southwest Virginia region. In 2022, visitor spending across the region surpassed an impressive $1.3 billion, underscoring the organization’s substantial economic contributions.

20th Anniversary Celebrations

Tyler Hughes, the executive director of The Crooked Road, announced several commemorative events happening throughout the year, partnering with numerous remarkable music venues across the region. The milestones will honor the trail’s work in catalyzing community and economic development tied to the dynamic cultural music scene indigenous to Southwest Virginia.

The planned celebratory events across the region include an April 27th show titled ‘Appalachia Rising’, The Carter Family on May 25th, and The Crooked Road’s grand 20th Anniversary Celebration on June 15th at the Country Cabin. Other scheduled events are the 20 Years Celebration at the Moss Arts Center on July 12th, another anniversary celebration at the Rex Theatre on August 2nd, The Carter Family Fold Festival on August 3rd, and finally the Rhythm & Roots Reunion Festival on September 13-15th in Bristol.

Reflecting on the organization’s journey, Hughes conveyed immense pride in how the Crooked Road has bolstered Southwest Virginia’s cultural music scene and effectively catalyzed economic development. Hughes stated, “We’ve shown the world that we can build a new economy while not sacrificing our heritage and identity.”. As a seasoned musician and a native of Southwest Virginia, Hughes emphasizes the phenomenal impact the organization’s steadfast support has had on countless venues, artists, and communities.

Looking Forward

As The Crooked Road notches up two decades of cultural contributions to Southwest Virginia, anticipation for a host of celebratory events runs high. The blend of commemoration and musical prowess promises an exhilarating year ahead, attesting once again to the undeniable charm and profound influence of the region’s rich musical heritage.