The Great 48 in Bakersfield

Al Lee and Blue Summit perform at the Buck Owens Crystal Palace as part of the Great 48. Photo by David Cupp.

Every year in January the California Bluegrass Association (CBA) puts on the “Great 48” in Bakersfield. The CBA is the largest member-driven nonprofit bluegrass organization in the U.S., comprised of more members than even the International Bluegrass Music Association, of which CBA is itself an organizational member. CBA is perhaps best known for its long-running Father’s Day Festival held every year in Grass Valley, California, and for its highly acclaimed youth programs.

Known mainly for its many activities in Northern California, some years ago CBA decided to try an event in central California to broaden its base, starting what was then called “Super Grass” to be held on Super Bowl Sunday every year in Bakersfield. Super Grass featured concerts by top-performing bands, along with workshops, vendors, and jamming. What became apparent, though, was that the main attraction was the jamming, camaraderie, workshops, local concerts, and the ability for attendees to mingle with others and share music informally. The high costs of paying top bands and presenting structured formal concerts at Super Grass was struggling and it seemed likely that Super Grass would break the bank with high expenses.

CBA leadership wisely decided a change in approach was warranted. The event was relabeled The Great 48 with a focus shift to local participation. This format quickly took off and the Great 48 is now so well established that CBA started a sister event in San Diego called The South State 48 in Carlsbad, which has been successful for several years running.

A concert presentation in the suite, hosted by SDBS and NCBFC at the Great 48. Photo by David Cupp.

The Great 48 event is held in a Bakersfield hotel, with jamming in every nook and cranny, workshops, hosted suites with concerts, vendors, and more. This year AJ Lee and Blue Summit performed at the nearby Buck Owens Crystal Palace. The Great 48 was held this year January 9-12 and was very well attended and enjoyed by all.

If you have never been, I recommend you give it a try next year. Admission (except for special concerts) is free. Learn all about it at: https://californiabluegrass.org/cbaevent/great48/

New local Band. The San Diego Bluegrass Society welcomed a great new band, Stay Tuned, at the SDBS second Monday of the month evening event at Duck Foot Brewery in Miramar. Stay Tuned presented a one-hour concert. This new band features tons of talent with Given Harrison on bass and vocals, Michael Williams on guitar and vocals, Peter Sharpe on mandolin and vocals, and Lenny Bole on banjo and Dobro. These are all seasoned veterans from other bands, who bring great vocals and strong instrumental chops to their lively brand of bluegrass music. Look for a lot more great stuff from this stellar new group.