Some Background on Banjo-ing Bluegrass Bands at the Ole Smoky Holler in Gatlinburg

The Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler in downtown Gatlinburg is home to many talented musicians who are regulars here. And just because the seasons change, doesn’t mean the music stops. Yes, winter brings its own set of challenges, especially with the snow that was recently dumped in the Knoxville region. But typically, they just roll out the propane heaters to keep the banjos picking…and the fingers from freezing to the frets. Here are some of the bands who play on during the 12-month, 52-week, and 365-day onslaught of entertainment throughout the year.

Kenny Stinson & Perfect Tym’n

Kenny Stinson obviously leads the loads of musicality in this group. He got started as a teenager, signing a recording deal to sing some Southern Bluegrass Gospel with his family band. It’s been quite a whirlwind for him, sharing the stage with his close-knit support group. Kenny took on various projects before settling down to help raise his young family. After fulfilling those responsibilities, he felt the need to get back in the business, proving the fact you can’t deny those urges from that music bug. It’s always a welcome sight seeing this band take the Holler stage!

Laney and Bishop

Colby Laney and Danielle Bishop make up this duo, and they grew up in the Asheville, NC area with a strong music bloodline. Both were blessed with musical fathers that it seems were destined to have these two meet. You see, Laney’s father actually bought instruments from Danielle’s dad, but this duo wouldn’t meet until the fall of 2022! She is a fantastic fiddler who has won many age-division awards. Colby and his guitar have taken him to the country music royalty stages of the Ryman and Grand Ole Opry. He has also penned a few chart-topping songs, but this duo may be most proud of their three labradors. I can’t wait to see them, as I have not yet witnessed their presence on the Holler stage.

Corey Zink and Company

Corey Zink and Company couldn’t really be put in the genre box of bluegrass, but that works out just fine for them. Corey grew up listening to legendary classic country, and their influence permeates his performances and writing. His band was formed in 2012, playing those classic hits he loved, and also the originals he penned. The talent is supremely evident with his cast of supporting musicians who combine to form a strong rudder for the group’s direction. Corey was born in Massachusetts, but now finds a home here in East Tennessee, even holding a place performing at Dollywood for 2 years. Corey’s new album, Lifetimes, is a triumph of personal discovery.

Firewater Junction

I couldn’t find a lot of information on Firewater Junction, but I know from wandering in on one of their performances, they are not just musical entertainers; they bring an element of comedy to their routines. That doesn’t mean they can’t bring the heat with their blend of stylistic bluegrass and country. This band just sounds really good, and I’ll share with you a “sample” of their music below. Don’t miss them!

Midnight Run

And last but not least is Seth Mulder and Midnight Run. They’ve also found a place performing at the Holler for years, and I’ve always enjoyed their fun and interactive concerts anytime I’ve been around to see them, which is, in fact, when they first started here in 2015. This is absolutely their neck of the woods, so they are a popular act whenever they grace the stage. Their musicianship is infectious, skilled and high-energy. They are breaking through as a group, releasing their first studio album on Mountain Fever Records in 2022. I can’t think of a more deserving local band. They are a hoot to see in person, so you know what to do!

Obviously these bands aren’t the only ones in the ongoing stream of music here at the Ole Smoky Holler, but this is quite the intriguing mix of talent, and without a doubt, you shouldn’t miss any of these performers when you’re visiting Gatlinburg. Remember, the music doesn’t stop for the cold or the winter! The bands play on…

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