Bluegrass, Country, and Americana

The roots of American music run deep in Virginia.

The ultimate way to experience Bluegrass, Country and Old Time music in Virginia is to drive The Crooked Road — Virginia's Heritage Music Trail. This 333 mile route takes you to major music venues – as well as hidden gems, jams and festivals – throughout Southwest Virginia.

The Bristol 1927 Sessions are often considered the most important recordings in Country Music Heritage. However they also have strong influences in gospel, blues and what would become Bluegrass. Visit the Blue Ridge Music Center, the Birthplace of Country Music, the Carter Family Fold and the Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center to fully immerse yourself or just get a taste of where the roots of these genres lie.

That’s what makes Virginia unique – finding the roots of your music scene through communities where music tradition is still alive through nightly shows, weekend festivals and even street jams where all are welcome to sing, sit and pick a tune or two with locals and new friends.