The Brinkley Amphitheater Archives - è��ͷ�� University

Countdown: Less Than 30 Days Until WebbStock is Back with Music, Food and Fun

Office of University Communications — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

è��ͷ�� University and Town of Boiling Springs to Host Fourth Annual Webbstock Music Festival

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University, in collaboration with the Town of Boiling Springs, will host the fourth annual Webbstock Music Festival on Saturday, April 12. The festival is free and open to the public, offering a full day of music, art, food, and community activities.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, April 12.
Time: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Music Locations:
- Main Street Crossroads Stage: Main St.
- Brinkley Amphitheater: è��ͷ�� University Campus/Main St.
Cost: Free admission.

Festival Highlights:

Live Music Performances: Starting at 1 p.m., the festival will feature a diverse lineup of local and regional artists, with concerts alternating between the Main Street Crossroads Stage and the Brinkley Amphitheater. Featured performers include:
- 1 p.m. – Wiregrass: A bluegrass/Americana band from North Carolina’s foothills. Members include Jamey Harrison (lead vocals, guitar), Brad Davis (vocals, bass), Scott Lail (vocals, banjo/dobro), and Tyler Leonard (vocals, lead guitar). Main Street Crossroads Stage.
- 3 p.m. – Electric Dynamite: A group that brings back the classic rock tone of sizzling hot tube amplifiers and massive dynamics with a soulful undertone. Lead man JT Fitch captivates audiences with his arena rock-style guitar playing and powerful blues-driven vocals, all backed by a rhythm section that keeps the party going all night. Brinkley Amphitheater.
- 5 p.m. – Will Shehan and Off the Wall: A pop artist from Gaffney, S.C., Shehan performs both solo and with his band, Off the Wall. His music blends catchy pop hooks with soulful melodies and chords reminiscent of artists like John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Eric Clapton, and Maroon 5. Main Street Crossroads Stage.
- 7 p.m. – Kids in America: A tribute to the unforgettable 1990s. Covering everything from new wave to hair metal, this band delivers performances that are not only nostalgic but vibrantly authentic. Brinkley Amphitheater.

Artisans and Vendors: Attendees can explore handmade goods from various artisans and enjoy a variety of food options from local vendors.
Kids’ Zone: Family-friendly activities will be available to engage younger attendees.
Beverage Garden: For guests aged 21 and over, the Broad River Greenway will host a beverage garden. Proper identification and event wristbands are required for entry.

Additional Information:

Parking: General parking areas are designated on the festival map. Attendees are encouraged to review the map in advance for parking locations and road closure information.
Vendor Participation: Artisans interested in participating can complete the vendor application here. (Before April 5.)
Festival Map and FAQs: Detailed information, including the festival map and frequently asked questions, is available on the official Webbstock webpage.

For more information about Webbstock 2025, including performance schedules and updates, visit the official festival page here.

è��ͷ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., è��ͷ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at è��ͷ��.edu.

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è��ͷ�� University and the Town of Boiling Springs Host Webbstock ’25 for Fourth Year

Office of University Communications — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:01:55 +0000

Festival Features Four Bands, Kids’ Zone, Food and Specialty Vendors and Beverage Garden

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Performers at Webbstock ’25 will take attendees on a tour through music genres that begins with Bluegrass/Americana, winds through pop and classic rock, and ends with a tribute to the ’90s. Hosted by è��ͷ�� University and the Town of Boiling Springs, the fourth annual event will be Saturday, April 12. Free performances are scheduled in the Brinkley Amphitheater and the Main Street stage. The festival opens at 11 a.m., and the first band performs at 1 p.m.

A variety of local and regional talent will entertain throughout the afternoon and evening.

“It certainly has been fun watching this event grow over the years, and we’re sure that the 2025 version of Webbstock will be the best yet!” shared è��ͷ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “Webbstock IV will be a day jam-packed with music, food, and fellowship for the entire family. We are so pleased to invite our students, faculty, staff, and friends throughout the community to once again join us for this annual kickoff to Spring extravaganza.”

Main Street will be closed to traffic during the event, from College Avenue to Branch Street. In addition to live music, activities include a free kids’ zone on the lawn in front of GWU’s Noel Hall, unique items for sell by local artisans and other vendors, and a range of specialty food options. For attendees 21 and older, the Broad River Greenway will host a beverage garden in the parking lot that serves downtown businesses.

Music Schedule

Performers on the Main Street stage:

1 p.m. – Wiregrass: The members of this bluegrass/Americana band are from the North Carolina foothills. Jamey Harrison, of Ellenboro, N.C., performs lead vocals and plays guitar. Brad Davis, also of Ellenboro, adds vocals and plays bass. The other two band members are Scott Lail of Delight, N.C., vocals and banjo/dobro; and Tyler Leonard, of Lawndale, N.C., vocals and lead guitar.

5 p.m. – Will Shehan and Off the Wall: Shehan is a pop artist from Gaffney, S.C., who performs both solo and with his band, Off the Wall. He is a songwriter, singer, and guitarist with a passion for creating and playing relatable and meaningful music. His songs have catchy pop hooks, but his unique sound is rooted in soulful melodies and chords reminiscent of great artists like John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Eric Clapton, Stevie Wonder, and Maroon 5. Though he’s young, his songs reflect his lifelong love and respect for many eras of great music.

Guests on the Brinkley Amphitheater stage:

3 p.m. – Electric Dynamite: This group brings back the classic rock tone of sizzling hot tube amplifiers and massive dynamics with a soulful undertone. Lead man JT Fitch captivates everyone with his arena rock-style guitar playing and his powerful blues-driven vocals, all backed by a rhythm section that keeps the party going all night.

7 p.m. – Kids in America: A totally ’90s tribute from Charlotte, N.C., brings the spirit of the 1990s alive with their high-octane, wildly entertaining performances of the decade’s greatest hits. Spanning across genres like pop, dance, grunge, and a little hip-hop, ’90s Kids doesn’t just play music—it recreates an era. Their shows are a visual treat, complete with costumes and props, ensuring an immersive ’90s experience.

Important links and contacts

For partnership and sponsorship inquiries, contact Nate Evans, njevans@gardner-webb.edu.
If you would like to be a vendor at Webbstock, complete the vendor application here. For more information, contact lvillarose@gardner-webb.edu.
Find Frequently Asked Questions here.

A look back at last year’s event:

Webbstock is an accessible event for guests with disabilities. It is our mission to provide the best experience for all event attendees. For access/ADA inquiries, contact disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu.

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Experience the Magic of The Eagles with The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – On The Border

Office of University Communications — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:34:03 +0000

Concert Set for Nov. 16 at Brinkley Amphitheater Following è��ͷ�� Football’s Showdown with Tennessee State

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The legendary sound of The Eagles is coming to è��ͷ�� University this fall, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss! The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – On The Border will perform live at the Brinkley Amphitheater on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 5 p.m., immediately following the final home football game of the season. Gates open at 4 p.m.

Tickets for the concert are $10 for general admission and $5 for è��ͷ�� football game ticket holders. GWU students get in free with ID. Tickets are available both in advance and at the gate.

The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – On The Border has earned a reputation for recreating the authentic Eagles concert experience, playing iconic venues like PNC Amphitheatre, House of Blues, and Hard Rock Casino. From the emotional ballads of “Desperado” and “Lyin’ Eyes” to the rockin’ energy of “Life in the Fast Lane” and “Life’s Been Good,” this tribute band delivers with precision.

Several reviews, including one from Live Nation venue, The Fillmore Charlotte, rave about the band’s ability to bring The Eagles’ sound to life. “With dedication, 70’s costuming, a surplus of musical chops, and a shelf full of papier-mâché Grammys, The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – On The Border pulls it off, treating fans to an authentic concert experience while journeying through The Eagles’ songbook. The band covers every hit…with such accuracy, that listeners may permanently confuse On The Border with the real Eagles. It’s truly a masterful sound to witness for yourself,” the commentary states.

This high-energy performance will take place as the sun sets at è��ͷ��’s Brinkley Amphitheater, providing the perfect backdrop for fans to enjoy the rich harmonies and classic guitar riffs that defined The Eagles’ legacy.

Invite your friends, grab your football gear, and make it a day of unforgettable entertainment—watch the Runnin’ Bulldogs take on Tennessee State at 1:30 p.m. in Spangler Stadium, then cap it off with a live concert that will leave you singing along to every note. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the iconic sounds of The Eagles, The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – On The Border promises an evening of timeless music and lasting memories.

Tickets for Runnin’ Bulldogs Football are available at gwusports.com or on gameday at the stadium.

For more information on The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – On The Border, including reviews, videos, and more, visit .

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è��ͷ�� Welcomes Dove Award-Winner Aaron Cole to Brinkley Amphitheater on Aug. 24

Office of University Communications — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Christian Rapper and Hip-Hop Artist Recorded and Toured with TobyMac

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Dove Award-Winner Aaron Cole is the third performer in è��ͷ�� University’s inaugural “Summer in the Springs” Concert Series at Brinkley Amphitheater. The Christian rapper and hip-hop artist will be in concert on Aug. 24 to welcome GWU students back to campus.

All seats are general admission. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are free for è��ͷ�� students and $15 for all others and may be purchased in advance or at the door.

Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott is excited that Cole will be on campus. “He is such a gifted and talented artist, and this will be a great night of worship as the University and local community gather at Brinkley Amphitheater,” Parrott affirmed.

Cole was 3-years-old when he started to rap verses, and in just a year he made his first recording. Since then, his musical journey has been filled with a coveted Dove Award (2019 New Artist of the Year) and back-to-back-to-back #1 singles on the Billboard Christian Hot Adult Contemporary (AC)/Christian chart.

TobyMac, a multi-Grammy award-winner and Billboard chart-topper, said of Cole, “My dude Aaron Cole is about to take it all somewhere special. This is the tip of the iceberg and it just goes deeper and wider from here on out.”

Cole was born and raised in Bristol, Va., a quintessential small town that rests right across the border of Tennessee. For Cole, hustling was a way of life. He grew up in a home where everyone had to work hard for what they had, and music was his outlet to express how he was feeling about the world around him. Some would say he was born into music—his dad had a recording studio in their apartment and his uncle was a Christian rapper. As a child, he would always sit in on the sessions. It wasn’t long before he began to mimic the verses and rap them back to him. It was clear he had a gift and ambition to go after his dream.

He caught the attention of TobyMac when he was just 15. Soon after Cole was signed to TobyMac’s label, Gotee Records. In 2017, Cole’s debut single, “Right On Time” (featuring TobyMac) hit the music circuit and skyrocketed to #1 on Billboard’s Christian Hot AC while the accompanying music video quickly amassed over 8 million views on YouTube.

IMA Contractors in Shelby,
N.C., is a sponsor for the event.

Then, Cole had another hit on his hands with “One More Day” which also rose to #1 on Billboard’s Christian Hot AC Chart, sending him to share the stage with the likes of Lecrae, Andy Mineo, KB, Trip Lee, and performing on three massive arena tours with TobyMac, Torian Wells and the late Mandisa.

Reflecting on his success, Cole said “No matter what your story is, we are all called to be something great. So, go after your dreams, no matter how impossible they seem. Work hard, stay true to who you are, don’t compromise your faith, and let God lead. After all, if God can make a poor kid from Bristol wildest dreams come true, He can do it for you too.”

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

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Tickets on Sale Now for Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass Concert on June 8 at è��ͷ��

Office of University Communications — Thu, 30 May 2024 13:52:40 +0000

America’s Premier Large Brass Ensemble Kicks off Inaugural ‘Summer in the Springs’ Concert Series in Brinkley Amphitheater

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass brings its signature sound to the Brinkley Amphitheater stage to begin è��ͷ�� University’s inaugural “Summer in the Springs” Concert Series on June 8. Marsalis has played all over the world, won numerous awards and competitions and received accolades for his evocative interpretation, impeccable virtuosity and beauty of sound.

Tickets are $20; all seats are general admission. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m.

“Summertime and music are synonymous, and what better way to enjoy the Dawg Days of Summer in Boiling Springs than with a series of concerts under the lights at GWU’s new amphitheater,” shared è��ͷ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “I warmly invite the campus community, as well as our neighbors from across Cleveland County and beyond, to join us for some memorable summer nights!”

è��ͷ�� Associate Professor Tim Hudson has played trumpet with Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass since 2015. He noted that the fun, family-oriented program covers music through time from the Renaissance through today. The concert features an eclectic repertoire, such as music from Earth, Wind and Fire, John Phillip Sousa, “West Side Story,” Dixieland Jazz, Bach, Elvis Presley, and the gospel tune – “Just a Closer Walk with Thee.”

Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass is dedicated to the notion that music is a gift to be enjoyed by everyone. In their concerts, they strive to connect with the audience. The ensemble is especially dedicated to reaching out to the world’s youth and inspiring them to reach for their dreams.

Performances range from solo trumpet, to brass quintet, to the full 11-piece ensemble with percussion. In recent years, the group has been invited to perform in performing arts centers around the world including China’s National Center for the Performing Arts, Guangzhou Opera House, Tangelwood’s Seiji Ozawa Hall, and prominent performing arts centers throughout the United States, South America, Asia, and Europe.

Second Concert with Carl Cartee and Guests is July 20

The second concert in the series on July 20 features Carl Cartee with special guests Shaylee Simeone and April Cushman. Cartee’s event will raise funds for GWU mission and service trips for students. Tickets are $15 for Cartee and available, . A third concert planned for Aug. 24 will welcome GWU students back to campus; details will be announced soon.

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è��ͷ�� Launches New Summer in the Springs Concert Series at Brinkley Amphitheater

Office of University Communications — Wed, 08 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass Plays June 8; Carl Cartee with Special Guests Performs July 20

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A brass “dream team” and a Dove award-winning musician will perform in è��ͷ�� University’s inaugural “Summer in the Springs” Concert Series at Brinkley Amphitheater. The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass will entertain on June 8. Carl Cartee with special guests Shaylee Simeone and April Cushman will be in concert on July 20. Cartee’s event will raise funds for GWU mission and service trips for students. A third concert planned for Aug. 24 will welcome GWU students back to campus; details will be announced soon.

“Summertime and music are synonymous, and what better way to enjoy the Dawg Days of Summer in Boiling Springs than with a series of concerts under the lights at GWU’s new amphitheater,” shared è��ͷ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “Since we opened the venue last October, we’ve enjoyed sampling from a range of musical genres; with the announcement of these upcoming events, we will expand our offerings even further. I warmly invite the campus community, as well as our neighbors from across Cleveland County and beyond, to join us for some memorable summer nights!”

All seats are general admission. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now: $20 for Marsalis, , and $15 for Cartee, .

The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass

June 8

The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass is America’s premier large brass ensemble. è��ͷ�� Associate Professor Tim Hudson has played trumpet with the group since 2015. The group is dedicated to the notion that music is a gift to be enjoyed by everyone. The ensemble is especially dedicated to reaching out to the world’s youth and inspiring them to reach for their dreams.

A Night of Worship with Carl Cartee and Special Guests Shaylee Simeone and April Cushman

July 20

Carl Cartee wrote his first song at the age of 7, considering music more of a second language than an acquired skill. His catalog of songs and studio albums have garnered him a Dove award as well as tracks on the albums of artists, including Elevation Worship, Laura Story, Aaron Schust, Selah, Jaci Valesquez, Big Daddy Weave, The Martins, NewSpring Worship, Finding Favour, LifeWay Worship, The Gaither Vocal Band, Rory & Joey, The Oak Ridge Boys, FFH, Travis Cottrell and over 150 songs cut by other artists.

A è��ͷ�� Distinguished Alumni, Cartee has written and recorded 13 albums over the last 18 years and performed with artists Third Day, Mercy Me, Steven Curtis Chapman but is most grateful to lead and serve on the staff of Fellowship Bible Church in Nashville, Tenn., as director of Worship Development. He is also the founder of the Inspire Worship Conference, an annual event that trains and equips church worship leaders.

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è��ͷ�� and the Town of Boiling Springs Host Webbstock ’24

Office of University Communications — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 19:29:33 +0000

Main Street Festival Features Music, Food and More

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Webbstock ’24 has all the ingredients for a day of family fun. è��ͷ�� and the Town of Boiling Springs are making plans to showcase talented regional musicians along with a tasty variety of food and unique items for sale by artists and crafters. Main Street will come alive on Saturday, April 20, with free performances in the Brinkley Amphitheater and the Main Street stage. The festival opens at 11 a.m., and the first band performs at 1 p.m.

The vendor list has over 25 participants, and more continue to be added. The lineup includes favorites from previous years, as well as new artisans and food trucks. Below is a partial list.

Click here to see the latest vendor updates and a festival map.

General Merchandise, Gifts

NCGal Creations, quilted ornaments, earrings & bracelets
5 Fido Originals, handmade pet accessories
The Chosen Brim, hats and ballcaps
IKD Creations, earrings
L & L Pottery & Crafts, pottery jewelry
Wacaster Woodworks, handcrafted wooden items
Lollipop Bow Shop, children’s clothing
At Peace Salon and Spa, salon products, fairy hair & braids
Whimsical Wiffs, car freshies in different colors, designs, and scents
The Rustic Blue Lily, gifts & jewelry, clothing, candles, lotions, soaps, jewelry
Linxed by Claudia!, permalinx permanent jewelry bracelets, anklets, necklaces, and charms
Gordon’s Jewelry & Repair, jewelry
Glow Clothing Co., clothing, Jewelry and access.
Juliette’s Layne, women’s boutique clothing & accessories
Trinity Family Farm, flowers
KyleeCreates, crocheted charms and keychains
è��ͷ�� Campus Shop, è��ͷ�� Apparel
High Vibes Creations, T-shirts, earrings, keychains, etc.
Cleveland County Partnership for Children, Early Head Start & Leap Years program
Amercia First Action Committee, flags, banners.
Boiling Springs Community Garden, non-profit

Food and Drink

S&K Funnel Cakes, funnel cakes, deep fried Oreos, lemonade, deep fried brownie sundae
I Stream of Yogurt, frozen yogurt / ice cream
Kona Ice of Cherokee County, shaved ice
Krave Food Truck, specialty burgers, tacos, hotdogs, fries and seasonal treats
Pretty Bomb Coffee, espresso drinks, energy drinks, cold brew, cold drinks (lemonade, iced tea), packaged treats
Chips & Dips, pulled BBQ Sandwiches, Nachos, Hotdogs and sides
Pathfinder Concessions
Krazea Korn, corn
A Little Taste of Chicago, Chicago style … Chicago Dog, Italian Beef, Pizza Puff, Maxwell Street Polish, Wings, Tenders, Seasoned Fries, Beefy Fries and Chicago Vegan Style Fries
GWU Food Truck, variety food
Sweet Treat Concessions, deserts
Taste and See, walking taco, banana pudding
Abi’s ParadICE, Italian Ice, Shaved Ice, Lemonade
Matt’s Munchies, Funnel Cakes, fried Oreos, cotton candy
Matt’s Munchies, Funnel Cakes, fried Oreos, cotton candy
Saundra Lees Country Kitchen, soul food/comfort food

A variety of musical talent will entertain throughout the afternoon and evening. The bands will play music from several genres, and the evening concert features songs from the legendary Fleetwood Mac.

Music Schedule

Performers on the Main Street stage:

1 p.m.: Java Band – These musicians have a versatile style that includes jazz standards, rock, Motown/beach, R&B, hip hop, and country. They perform all over the U.S., delighting audiences with their energy, creativity, knowledge, and attitude.
5 p.m.: Exit 180 – A band formed by a group of guys with the same vision and purpose: Play authentic rock, classic and southern rock, as well as familiar country songs that inspire people to dance and sing along. They feature different sounds from acoustic and electric guitars to keyboards and multi-part harmonies. Their song list covers a wide range of artists that audiences know and recognize easily.

Guests on the Brinkley Amphitheater stage:

3 p.m.: Cassette Rewind – Born in the ‘80s and raised on radio, Cassette Rewind is the ultimate authentic ’80s experience with dynamic performances of Prince, George Michael, Journey, Whitney Houston and other ’80s pop icons.
7 p.m.: LANDSLIDE (A tribute to Fleetwood Mac) – This group takes audiences back in time to an era when the greatest music in rock was being made and the careers of the legends were born. LANDSLIDE recreates the hits from yesteryear, taking fans on an electric journey through Fleetwood Mac’s incredible catalog of music, including the hits from their solo-careers.

Important links and contacts

For partnership and sponsorship inquiries, contact Nate Evans, njevans@gardner-webb.edu.
If you would like to be a vendor at Webbstock, complete the vendor application here. For more information, contact lvillarose@gardner-webb.edu.
Find Frequently Asked Questions here.

Other event partners include media sponsor WNCW88.7 and Fairfield by Marriott.

A look back at last year’s event:

Webbstock is an accessible event for guests with disabilities. It is our mission to provide the best experience for all event attendees. For access/ADA inquiries, contact disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu.

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è��ͷ��’s Brinkley Amphitheater Hosts Balsam Range and Fireside Collective

Office of University Communications — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Award-Winning Bluegrass Groups from Western North Carolina Play on Nov. 18

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Balsam Range, winner of 13 awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA)—including Entertainer of the Year—will headline the second concert in Brinkley Amphitheater at è��ͷ�� University. Special guest, Fireside Collective, will open the event on Nov. 18. Doors open at 4 p.m. and the program starts at 5 p.m. General admission tickets are available below.

“We’re all excited to follow up October’s inaugural amphitheater concert with the announcement of two more high-energy bands that will entertain us in November following our final home football game,” remarked è��ͷ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “Balsam Range and Fireside Collective are going to be fun, and I look forward to a large and festive audience gathering on our campus for some great music!”

has become one of the genre’s most award-winning acts. Since forming in 2007, the group has produced 13 critically-acclaimed albums. Balsam Range has left audiences spellbound while headlining major festivals from coast-to-coast, selling out venues across the nation and in multiple appearances at the Grand Ole Opry. The members are all acoustic musicians and singers from western North Carolina. They thoughtfully and respectfully adopted the name of a majestic range of mountains that surround part of their home county of Haywood, N.C., where the Great Smoky Mountains meet the Blue Ridge, the Great Balsam Range.

In an interview with “Bluegrass Situation,” Tim Surrett, bass and dobro player, shared that music was a vital part of growing up in the mountains of North Carolina. “Square dancing, clogging, mountain dancing, and old-time music were a huge thing, and you get indoctrinated with it,” Surrett elaborated. “There are so many great players that come from this region, and you cannot help being exposed to it, especially growing up when most of us did. It was an enormous part of life here in the mountains. And it’s fun to see that go on as some of us have become elder statesmen of that scene now.”

Fireside Collective

is a quintet, who cheerfully disregard every kind of one-dimensional label that might be attached to their music. The group has been on a roll since emerging seven years ago from the fertile roots music scene of Asheville, N.C. In quick order, the progressive Americana bluegrass group released its debut album, won the 2016 Band Contest at MerleFest, earned an IBMA Momentum Band of the Year nomination and embarked on an ambitious touring schedule that’s earned an enthusiastic reception from traditional bluegrass to wide-ranging, eclectic music festival audiences alike. They were nominated for IBMA New Artist of the Year in 2022.

Caleb Calhoun, writing for “Ashvegas” praised the group as “masters of their instruments.” He added, “They’re writing songs that fit their range and style perfectly. They can run you over like a Mack truck or tiptoe along the hair on the back of your neck like a fairy. Even the instruments take on vocal characteristics creating the feel of a jam during carefully composed sections.”

The Boiling Springs Tourism Development Authority is a sponsor for this event, and WNCW is a media sponsor.

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Ricky Skaggs Opens è��ͷ��’s Brinkley Amphitheater to a Sold-Out Crowd

Office of University Communications — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 18:18:05 +0000

Exceptional Evening of Music Punctuates Homecoming Celebration

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A spectacular autumn sunset provided the perfect backdrop as Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder officially opened the Brinkley Amphitheater at è��ͷ�� University on Saturday, Oct. 28. An enthusiastic sold-out crowd welcomed the 15-time Grammy winner along with è��ͷ�� student Lindy Bryson and country artist Will Jones.

The concert also punctuated the Runnin’ Bulldogs last-minute Homecoming victory over UT Martin (38-34), the program’s first win over a ranked team since 2021.

“From start to finish, this was just about as perfect a Homecoming Day as any of us could have imagined,” praised è��ͷ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “With our spirits already sky-high after a thrilling win at Spangler Stadium, we were then treated to a wildly successful grand opening at our new amphitheater. The CMA Hall of Famer Ricky Skaggs supplied a strong show, as we knew he would. Will Jones was terrific, and I’m certain many in the audience who were unfamiliar with him went straight to Spotify following his set. It was, though, the wonderful presence of our own Lindy Bryson that—at least in my view—stole the show. The talent we have on this campus is amazing, and I’m so pleased for Lindy that she could share her gifts with such a large and supportive audience.”

Bryson, who had the honor to be the first performer on the amphitheater stage, opened the evening with her heartfelt performance. “I was able to play some original songs including ‘Muddy Waters,’” Bryson affirmed. “I could have sung all night; it was such a great crowd. Will Jones and Ricky Skaggs were awesome and a pleasure to meet. This was definitely a moment I will always remember!”

GWU President Dr. William M. Downs and Lindy Bryson

Jones, a singer-songwriter originally from the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, followed Bryson with his unique style of bluegrass-inspired music.

Skaggs took the audience on a trip through his legendary catalog and included crowd favorites from Flatt and Scruggs, The Stanley Brothers and Bill Monroe.

Vice President of Marketing Richard McDevitt noted the success of the venue’s first event. “We had a great ‘first night’ in the Brinkley amphitheater,” he observed. “It was a very special experience with a wonderful, sold-out crowd and great performances from the artists. We’re excited to do this again in just a few weeks with Balsam Range and Fireside Collective.”

Join the è��ͷ�� Community for the next concert on Nov. 18 with Balsam Range and Fireside Collective.

Saturday’s concert was made possible in part with a grant from the Town of Boiling Springs TDA. WNCW 88.7 FM was a media sponsor.

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è��ͷ�� Homecoming 2023 Welcomes Alumni and Celebrates Students

Office of University Communications — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Full Weekend Includes Food, Football and First Brinkley Amphitheater Concert with Ricky Skaggs

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Homecoming 2023 at è��ͷ�� University features three days of festivities Oct. 27-29 to welcome alumni and celebrate the GWU student-experience. The events will also usher in a new era with the first concert in the è��ͷ�� Brinkley Amphitheater on Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. Headlined by Grammy award-winner Ricky Skaggs and his band Kentucky Thunder, the performance will launch a venue that will host a variety of arts and entertainment for years to come.

“This year’s celebration of Homecoming will make for a very full weekend,” asserted Director of Alumni Relations Leah Clevenger. “We will introduce a new tradition with Bo’s Battle ‘QUE, host a huge picnic for alumni and friends, cheer on our Runnin’ Bulldogs for the big game, open the Brinkley Amphitheater with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, and wrap up the weekend with Worship at The Webb. We hope that families will make plans to take in the festivities and enjoy the special moments that will stick with them for a lifetime!”

Friday’s schedule includes a golf outing, Bo’s Battle ‘QUE, backyard barbecue competition, and Hall of Fame Gala. Registration is required by Oct. 20 for all three events.

Saturday offers a Bulldog BBQ picnic for alumni and friends (registration required by Oct. 20), tailgating and the traditional parade. The è��ͷ�� Student Government Association has a patriotic theme planned this year. Floats will line up on Memorial Drive, turn left onto College Avenue, right onto South Main, cruise through the tailgating in the LYCC’s parking lot, drive by the Bulldog BBQ and then right onto Stadium Drive.

The football game kicks off at 1:30 p.m. when the Runnin’ Bulldogs take on UT-Martin in Spangler Stadium. Tickets can be purchased .

The Skaggs concert follows the game, and the opening act—the very first person to perform on the Brinkley Amphitheater’s stage—is Cleveland County native and GWU student, Lindy Bryson. She is followed by Will Jones, who grew up in Virginia listening to the twangs of mandolin, banjo and fiddle played by his dad. This concert is made possible in part with a grant from the Town of Boiling Springs TDA. WNCW 88.7 FM is a media sponsor. Tickets are available .

On Sunday morning, Worship at the Webb begins at 10 a.m. in the Brinkley Amphitheater. Gates will open at 9:30 a.m. The service includes welcome and opening prayer by GWU President Dr. William M. Downs, a testimony by Bri Bryant, a message by Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott and music by the GW Gospel Choir and Bryson. Justin Tolleson will read the scripture, and Teresa Davis will close in prayer.

The complete Homecoming schedule, along with registration information can be found here.

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