BGS and MerleFest are so excited to once again partner to bring you exclusive clips and sessions captured on site during the incredible 2026 MerleFest event in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.
Jake Shimabukuro made his MerleFest debut in 2026 and immediately became a fan favorite. Jake is originally from Honolulu, Hawai‘i, and has made quite a name for himself with the ukulele. His music pulls from just about everything, including jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music. He’s really taken the instrument to a whole new level throughout his career. During this terrific BGS Session, Jake performed three songs: “Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers,” “Kula Blues,” and “Dragon.”
We 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. 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.
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, including Jake Shimabukuro’s performance at the MerleFest Late Night Jam.
