BGS is proud to partner with Woollystar Music Festival for a series of new video sessions, launching today with a performance from Margo Cilker. “Little White Cross” is the first single and title track from Cilker’s third album, out on Fossil Records on October 9, 2026.
“Woollystar began as a vision, and a responsibility,” says festival curator Avery Hellman. “Six years ago, I imagined an event where people could enjoy high quality roots music in an intimate setting, where the arts are respected, and where attendees were not treated like sheep. Given my family’s background in music festival business, I felt it was my responsibility to create another opportunity for the myriad of gifted musicians who deserve an attentive audience. I also wanted to present this event amongst the high peaks along a clear river, in a far flung corner of California, serving the reclusive locals as well as the intrepid traveler.”
Hellman continues, “This was a landmark year for Woollystar, our fifth festival, and my biggest dream going into the event was to capture footage of the performers in that place and time. This meant I was very selective about the performers, choosing Margo Cilker, one of the greatest western singers of our time. She speaks to the history of cowboy and country-folk music, but writes songs with class, telling honest modern tales in a genuine voice that cuts through any noise. As I planned this session I thought, ‘Aha! It would be most thrilling to record her in a very special spot in Alpine County, the Markleeville General Store.’ I think Margo’s music speaks to those that travel in and out of this store, those living in the rural west, who face the modern age with fortitude. People get their Louis L’Amour novels as well as their kombucha at the Markleeville General Store.”
Recorded live at the Markleeville General Store in partnership with the Woollystar Music Festival, June 12, 2026
Vocals & Acoustic Guitar: Margo Cilker
Bass: Forrest VanTuyl
Electric Guitar: Jeremy Ferrara
Drums: Dan Galucki
Song written by Christy Hays
Videography & Editing: Brad Wagner
Sound Engineering and Mixing: Juan M. Soria
