Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Celebrates Earl Scruggs‘ Legacy at Festival, Highlighting Enduring Impact of ‘Will the Circle Be Unbroken’
WILSON, NC – The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band closed out the recent festival with a moving tribute to Earl Scruggs and their landmark 1972 album, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, reaffirming the banjo legend’s profound influence on bluegrass, country, and generations of musicians. The performance underscored Scruggs’ role not just as a virtuoso instrumentalist, but as a unifying force who bridged musical genres and fostered connection during turbulent times.
The festival tribute arrives as Scruggs’ legacy continues to resonate with contemporary artists, who cite his openness and innovative spirit as foundational to their own work. will the Circle Be Unbroken remains a pivotal recording, celebrated for its groundbreaking collaboration between bluegrass pioneers and a younger generation of musicians, and its enduring message of finding common ground. The album’s impact extends beyond musical circles, speaking to a universal desire for unity.
“He inspired me to have an open mind,” musician Sam Bush shared. “To be open to all kinds of music and all kinds of people.”
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s performance featured an all-star lineup,with Sierra Hull embodying Mother Maybelle Carter,Shawn Camp channeling jimmy Martin,Rob McCoury portraying Earl Scruggs,Bush interpreting Roy Acuff,and Jerry Douglas representing Norman blake. They performed selections including “grand Ole Opry Song,” with Camp singing lines referencing Scruggs and Bill Monroe.
Sierra Hull emphasized Scruggs’ influence on artistic authenticity. “We can play [bluegrass], we can honor it, but I also just try to do what I do, and try to be me,” she said. “And try to let that part of myself shine through,without feeling like I’ve got to be something else,because that’s what [Earl] did. That’s why I love [this music] so much.”
Jeff hanna of the nitty Gritty Dirt Band reflected on Scruggs’ character and lasting contribution.”Earl was a hero of ours way before we met him. His virtuosity and innovation was incredibly inspiring to us as budding musicians,” Hanna stated. “He was always so supportive and encouraging, confident, but never arrogant. He left a huge, beautiful legacy.”
