Wilene "Sally Ann" Forrester She was born, Wilene Russell, in 1922. Her family called her Goldie Sue. Her classmates called her Billie. She performed as Sally Ann Forrester. Was the confusion created by having too many names the reason why Wilene Forrester is slow to be recognized as the "First Woman in Bluegrass"? All humor aside, in 1943, Wilene was … Continue reading Wilene “Sally Ann” Forrester, First Woman in Bluegrass
There is something about American music, as Leonard Bernstein said, in its expression of "wide open spaces" that describes an innovative mindset, a resilient optimism and a bold spirit of our people. At its roots, American music draws from the influences of many that have migrated here, willingly or against their will, as well as from … Continue reading The Inspiring Edward Jay
Sometimes a song begins slowly. It trips, then tumbles, and then gradually begins to spin, climb and pick up speed. Finally, it ascends and roars across the airwaves. Such is the song, "Come With Me Now" on its path to becoming the best selling pop song of all time that features a strong accordion presence. By using the piano … Continue reading Johnny Kongos, of the band, KONGOS
In the world of entertainment, the word "play" has been used, forever. As athletic games are played on fields and in arenas, music is similarly played on a live stage or in a recording studio. The indefatigable Accordionist, Aaron Hurwitz, known as 'Professor Louie', has participated in the game for a long time, as a multi-instrumentalist, … Continue reading The Dynamic Professor Louie and The Crowmatix
Rosie Ledet Accordionist, Singer and Songwriter, Rosie Ledet IS the Zydeco Sweetheart. But, make no mistake, there's nothing sweet about the way she can rock and roll with her diatonic accordion. Yes, that's what I said....the accordion. She is quite unique among accordionists, of any stripe. But if Zydeco is a man's world, and if … Continue reading Rosie Ledet and the Zydeco Playboys
Helen Carter The Carter Family, among the original Americana performers, were the first to become well-known outside of their region. Though they were unassuming and humble people, they had an enormous impact on music both within, and outside of America and brought American Country and Roots music to the forefront. Helen Carter continued their … Continue reading Helen Carter of Mother Maybelle and The Carter Sisters
Jason Webley Not many people embrace the accordion, and then abandon their day job. It's just not done. But, Jason Webley did just that. Maybe it was a reaction, at that time,to his belief that his life was falling apart. Maybe it was a response to a yearning for another place, and another kind of life. … Continue reading Jason Webley, Travelling Troubadour and Monster of the Accordion
Jenny Conlee There is a point where a band can evolve from a regionally identified indie folk rock band to that of a mainstream pop group. For The Decemberists, whether for good or bad, such an evolution is currently underway. The Decemberists The Decemberists had been a relatively high profile band but chose to abruptly … Continue reading Jenny Conlee of the Indie band, The Decemberists
Gertie Lopez In the great Sonoran Desert, in the Southwest region of the North American continent, the indigenous people once known as the Papagos lived for thousands of years. Their land, known as the Papagueria, extended south to Monterrey, Mexico, north into Central Arizona, west to the Gulf of California and east to the San … Continue reading Native American Accordionist, Gertie Lopez and the T.O. Boyz
Ben Lovett Born in Cardiff, Wales in 1986, Ben Lovett met Marcus Mumford while they were students at Kings College in London. Along with Englishmen, Ted Dwane and Winston Marshall, they magically came together in 2007, to form Mumford and Sons, a name more evocative of an old time blacksmith or haberdashery, rather than a … Continue reading Ben Lovett of Mumford and Sons
Accordion Americana 