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Twenty-five years ago, a small festival dedicated to the music forged from the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains took root.
Written by Joshua Moore / Photos Courtesy of Joshua Moore
Over time, it has grown into a gathering known far beyond the region, bringing generations of musicians, storytellers, and artisans to a region so fertile in musical history that one root had to sprout and spread. It branched out into a forest of traditions, stories, and melodies that continues to flourish each year.
This year’s lineup was stacked with talent, from larger-known bands like Old Crow Medicine Show, who packed the entirety of State Street downtown Bristol, to local bands like Kris Truelsen and the Country Casserole, who helped kick off the twenty-fifth reunion on the Piedmont stage.
The Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion (BRRR) is known for its wide variety of stages and bands spread across downtown Bristol, TN/VA, with the State Street Stage right on the TN/VA state line. They also use The Paramount and Theatre Bristol indoor stages, along with a couple more small local spots, so some shows can still go on even if a thunderstorm rolls through and causes minor delays.
With nearly a hundred musical acts at this year’s BRRR, there was something for everyone. Some of my favorite acts included Denitia, whose vocals flow as smoothly as a waterfall. Acoustic Syndicate, the country child of the Grateful Dead. The Kruse Brothers, who drew people to them with their honed harmonies. And the all-time classic, no introduction needed: The Del McCoury Band with their classic bluegrass.
On top of the music, the streets were lined with food vendors for every taste bud, unique craft vendors such as tintype photos, clothing, art, homemade jams and jelly, and some of the best lemonade the South has to offer.
Closing out the last day of the three day festival were two of the best acts in my humble opinion, Marty Stewart and His Fabulous Superlatives at Cumberland Square Park. Marty and his Fabulous Superlatives always tend to draw a large crowd as they come to hear some of the best classic country music. And Old Crow Medicine Show, who’s high octane set, will have you flat footing faster than kudzu taking over a mountain.
After ten years of attending BRRR, I have to say, this is one for the books. Well done, and may your roots be ever growing.
For more information visit our website: bristolrhythm.com
Historic Downtown Bristol, TN‑VA / SEPTEMBER 11-13, 2026
