Chattanooga Celebrates Bluegrass at the 17th Annual 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival
Chattanooga, TN – It’s that time of year again! Thousands of bluegrass enthusiasts gathered at Ross’s Landing Friday night for the much-anticipated 17th Annual 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival, proudly presented by Fletcher Bright Realty. This year was particularly special as the evening unfolded with heartfelt tales and a bittersweet farewell.
A Legend Bids Farewell
In a touching moment during the festival, Doc Ed Cullis, the legendary banjo player and long-time member of the famous Dismembered Tennesseans, announced his retirement. Doc Cullis has been a cornerstone of the band for an incredible 74 years. This 88-year-old musician shared the stage with iconic figures such as John Hartford, who penned the classic “Gentle On My Mind,” and has played with other well-known artists including Norman and Nancy Blake. As the only surviving member of the original lineup, his stories of camaraderie and talent brought smiles and a few tears to all present.
In his announcement, Doc Cullis reflected on how it all began at McCallie High School when he and his friends snuck in instruments during detention. “We thought we’d be in trouble for smoking, but instead, we became a band,” he chuckled. The nostalgia in the air was palpable as attendees rejoiced in the memories of countless performances and shared musical journeys.
Musical Talent Takes the Stage
The festival kicked off with exciting performances from the Dismembered Tennesseans, followed by an impressive lineup that included Becky Buller, Slogan Ramblers, and The Infamous Stringdusters. The atmosphere was filled with the sweet sounds of bluegrass echoing far and wide.
The excitement isn’t over yet as Saturday’s activities are set to begin at noon and continue to 10 PM. Names like Bluetastic Fangrass, Lone Mountain Band, and Chicken Wire Empire will grace the stage throughout the day, promising to keep the energy alive and the crowd dancing. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to gather, bring a blanket, and enjoy some local food because organizers have assured everyone there’s plenty of delicious options available for purchase.
Keeping The Tradition Alive
The festival itself was a brainchild of the late award-winning fiddler Fletcher Bright, who started it back in 2007 as a heartfelt thank-you gift to the Chattanooga community. His intention was simple: to preserve the cherished traditions of bluegrass and folk music while giving back to the city that supported his family’s real estate business. This spirit of generosity continues today as his daughter Eleanor now carries the baton, performing as a member of the New Dismembered Tennesseans and keeping the legacy alive.
Community Spirit Shines Bright
Among the festival-goers, the lively presence of Louie Wamp, brother of former Congressman Zach Wamp, added to the buzz. Wamp has been steeped in music from a young age, learning to play his first instrument at just five years old. He grew up attending the Cadek Conservatory in Chattanooga and now showcases his talent by playing multiple instruments, including the dobro, which he took up post-accident in the mid-’90s. His craftsmanship on stage has won the hearts of many bluegrass fans.
As the night wrapped up, it was clear that the 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival was more than just music; it was a joyful celebration of community and shared experiences. So, mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a day filled with heartwarming tunes and unforgettable memories.
We can’t let the weekend end without reminding you—don’t forget your chairs and blankets for a comfortable spot to enjoy the amazing performances!
