What does this mean for bluegrass? Not much, really. For years--indeed, for much of its history--bluegrass has been only a small part of CMA Music Fest. Back in the day when Fan Fair was held at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds, there was always a bluegrass show staged--usually headlined by Bill Monroe--to kick off the festival, but it was poorly attended. I emceed several of those shows during the '80s and '90s, and remember well the great music and relatively small crowds. I always attributed that to the fact that the shows weren't promoted well, and also that there were often competing events which drew attendees away.
CMA Music Fest is now held in downtown Nashville. Although there is still very little emphasis on bluegrass, the good news is that it is still represented. In fact, it's represented well. This year's all-bluegrass show, which takes place on Thursday the 5th at 2:00 P.M., features The Steeldrivers, Mountain Heart, Dan Tyminski, and Sierra Hull. Now that's a strong lineup. If that's not enough, the Grascals will be appearing on another show (not bluegrass-only) on Sunday the 8th at 11:45 A.M.The best part is that both of these shows are free--you don't have to be a registered CMA Music Fest participant to see them--and they'll be held on the Chevrolet-sponsored show just outside of the Sommet Center at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Broadway. Just walk up and enjoy the music. And if you can't be there in person, Bluegrass Junction will be broadcasting the Thursday show live, and the Sunday show on a delayed basis.
In an age when many of country music's biggest stars eschew CMA Music Fest for more lucrative concert appearances elsewhere, it's interesting that some of the best bluegrass has to offer will be out in force. I think that's good for bluegrass and the CMA.
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