Ashby Frank's "Knee Deep In Bluegrass" Tops the Bluegrass Today Radio Chart

Ashby Frank's "Knee Deep In Bluegrass," his first single since the release of last year's Leaving Is Believing, has topped this month's Bluegrass Today radio chart. The song - which has been No. 1 on the weekly chart twice - is both a tribute to a beloved member of the bluegrass community and a compelling example of the musical power that created and sustained it.

"We recorded 'Knee Deep' as a tribute to my friend and former bandmate, the great Terry Baucom, and I'm sure he would be so proud of the success this new recording has garnered. I can remember picking this tune as a teenager at local jams and festivals, of course not knowing at the time that I'd eventually have the honor of performing it onstage with Terry with The Mashville Brigade," says Frank. "I couldn't be more pleased with the reaction that this tune has gotten from Bluegrass radio and listeners. I'd like to thank all of the DJs and programmers that have spun or added this single, as well as the amazing musicians that joined me on this track. Also, a special thanks to my Mountain Heart bandmate Matt Menefee for his re-interpretation of this classic Bauc tune on the banjo."

Frank's arrangement of "Knee Deep In Bluegrass" brings a new, tautly rhythmic prelude and stripped down initial statement of Baucom's memorable theme followed by the deepest kind of bluegrass tribute - one that pays homage in a sophisticated, nuanced way, resorting neither to simple imitation nor gratuitous re-imagining, but instead serving up an irresistible blend of deeply informed nods to the original and fresh, new touches that honor its creative spirit. 

Listen to "Knee Deep In Bluegrass" HERE.

 

 

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