If you’re already looking forward to MerleFest, you’ll be delighted to hear that tickets are on sale now.

MerleFest plays a pivotal role in the rise of Old Crow Medicine Show, as they were recommended for the 2000 festival by none other than Doc Watson himself. Doc discovered the band playing on a street corner in Boone, North Carolina, and helped introduce them to a wider audience by inviting them to perform at MerleFest. That connection makes seeing Willie Watson and OCMS together again at the festival even more special. As longtime fans remember, Willie Watson spent more than a decade with the band before pursuing his solo career, but he reunited with the band at the Late Night Jam for this performance of “My Bones Gonna Rise Again.”

BGS launched our off-season collaboration with the long-running bluegrass and roots music festival by sharing performances from the MerleFest Late Night Jam with the Grand Ole Opry, featuring Old Crow Medicine Show and Maggie Rose. We then stepped away from the rowdy and raucous Late Night Jam for a more traditional session and a wonderful set from none other than Charles Wesley Godwin. After that, Willie Watson delivered a blend of songs, stories, and personal memories in a thoughtful solo performance.

We were also treated to an invigorating set from an up-and-coming East Kentucky band, The Creekers, and some splendid singing from The Band Loula. In addition, we were introduced to the compelling music of Broken Compass Bluegrass followed by a ukulele performance from Jake Shimabukuro. And we can’t revisit our MerleFest memories without a look at Jim Lauderdale at the Late Night Jam, accompanied by Grand Ole Opry favorites Old Crow Medicine Show. Plus, Molly Tuttle charmed listeners with stories and music, including a cover of Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi.”

Over the coming months, BGS and MerleFest will bring you more performances, more collaborations, and more unforgettable moments from the artists who make MerleFest special. Stay tuned right here on BGS and across our BGS and MerleFest social media accounts for more coming soon. Also, for fans of the Late Night Jam, the 2027 edition will feature The Travelin’ McCourys presenting “The Grateful Ball.”

Video Credits: I Know We Should, Brad Wagner and Juan Soria.

This content brought to you in partnership with MerleFest. Experience music and more at MerleFest.org.