2026 America 250 Celebration

Red Clay Revival

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Born in the soul-basted countryside of Alabama, then brought to the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains to marinade and mature, Red Clay Revival delivers an experience that continues to reshape the parameters of roots music with skillful, heart-driven compositions. Bandleader and songsmith extraordinaire, Doug McElvy, lays a solid foundation at the epicenter of Red Clay’s musical magnitude. The band’s high energy shows are filled with slam-grass/bluegrass breaks, with a rock feel; it’s an entertaining performance sure to get the crowd moving regardless of musical taste.

The Empire Strikes Brass

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Empire Strikes Brass is a dynamic BrassFunkRock band hailing from Asheville, North Carolina. Their music resonates with a powerful message delivered through a captivating and larger-than-life sound. Fueled by a thumping rhythm section that sets the groove, the band’s rich horn arrangements add an extra layer of depth to both their original compositions and compelling covers, showcasing the evolution of ESB.

Formed in 2012, Empire Strikes Brass began as a group of friends inspired by New Orleans second-line traditions and funk-driven rhythms infused with elements of rock and jam. Over time, they have grown into a collective known for tight arrangements, bold musical choices, and a sound that seamlessly blends diverse influences while staying true to their roots.

Since their inception, Empire Strikes Brass has become a staple at festivals and venues across the USA, leaving a lasting impression with their infectious energy and electrifying performances. They have shared the stage with acclaimed acts such as Shpongle Live Band, Umphrey’s McGee, Papadosio, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Andy Frasco and the UN, and Petey Pablo, earning a reputation for powerful live shows that move audiences from deep groove to explosive brass-driven peaks.

Whether performing live or working in the studio, Empire Strikes Brass emanates a strength and cohesiveness that is undeniable. Their debut album, Theme For A Celebration, was recorded at the renowned Echo Mountain Recording Studio in Asheville and was recognized as one of the Top 100 releases of the year by WNCW 88.7 radio in 2017. Their follow-up release, Brassterpiece Theatre (2019), also recorded at Echo Mountain, showcased continued growth and artistic drive. Both albums are available across all major streaming, distribution, and sales platforms.

As they continue to tour and captivate audiences, Empire Strikes Brass is actively developing new material for their upcoming studio release. Between shows, they are crafting and refining fresh sounds that keep their live performances evolving, high-energy, and unforgettable. Their shows deliver a full-spectrum experience that blends groove, power, and brass-fueled intensity from start to finish.

HEADLINER

Whitewater Bluegrass Co.

6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

For over 40 years, the Whitewater Bluegrass Co. has captivated audiences throughout the Southeast with their blend of Bluegrass music, country ballads, mountain swing, rockabilly, and down-home humor. With Whitewater, mountain culture is a celebration of music, song and dance.
Whether they are playing a festival, convention, wedding, or just an old-fashioned mountain-style party, the Whitewater Bluegrass Co. offers the best interface between culture and crowd.

With their tight sound, they have served as the host band for Folkmoot USA, the Smoky Mountain Folk Festival, Kanuga Conference Centers, and the Historic Horse Barn on the Biltmore Estate. They have also been featured entertainers for Billy Edd Wheeler’s book tour “Hotter Than a Pepper Sprout,” and have entertained folks at the North Carolina Bar Association, the Carter Family Fold, the Mountain Heritage Center at Western Carolina University, the Grove Park Inn, and many more. They have also hosted the dance stage at MerleFest. Whitewater Bluegrass Company was named to “Who’s Who in American Bluegrass Music” as well.

Be sure to bring your dancing shoes!