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The roots of bluegrass and old-time country can be heard in the traditional sound of Bill Jenkins and the Virginia Mountain Boys, performing their award-winning music as part of the Hampton History Museum’s music series on Wednesday, November 20, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Bill Jenkins & the Virginia Mountain Boys bring to life this authentic music of the Southern Appalachians.  This old time music is a reflection of the lives of the early immigrants and their descendants who eked out a meager living in the hills and hollows of these majestic mountains. Entertainment options were few and thus self-made music became the norm. This mountain music, heavily influenced by Scots-Irish and African rhythms, later gave birth to early bluegrass and to many early country songs which are also included in their show.

Bill Jenkins & The Virginia Mountain Boys are: Bill Jenkins, Guitar and Vocals; Ken Worrell, Guitar and Vocals; Clyde Bailey, Banjo; Steve Hunley, Mandolin; and Joe Gilley, Bass Fiddle.

The group performs universally loved, but seldom heard music that brings forth a gamut of emotions.  Each song is performed as originally written or as handed down through the ages.  These ballads are undiluted and raw like the emotions they bring forth. The band performs original tunes as well, crafted in the same tradition. They recently released a CD, “The Guinea Man,” to their extensive catalog of music.

The sound of the group differs from most contemporary bluegrass bands in that it has an older, starker, and rawer sound.  Jenkins and Worrell use their voices as instruments as much as their guitars. The ability to swap back and forth from lead to harmony several times during the same song is part of their genius, which has been honed in over 45 years of practice and performance. Moreover, a short history lesson and an explanation about each song is an important part of the show.

virginiamountainboys.com

Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Proceeds support the museum.

The event is free for museum members, $5 for non-members. Join today and save! 

Doors open at 5:30 pm. Seating and capacity are limited and first-come, first-served.

The Hampton History Museum is located at 120 Old Hampton Lane in Downtown Hampton. There is free parking in the garage across the street from the museum. For more information visit www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org, or call 757-727-1102.