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.
A longtime BGS favorite, Molly Tuttle has a long history with MerleFest, dating back to attending the festival when she was younger. She was also a winner of the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest in 2016, and it’s been really special to watch her career grow as she’s returned to the festival over the years. For an enthusiastic audience, Molly performs “Rosalee,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” and “Over the Line,” and shares a little about her history with MerleFest. It’s also a treat to hear Molly talk about her admiration for Joni Mitchell, her own creative process, and working with the small but mighty group of musicians who help bring her recordings to life.
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.
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.
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.
