The bluegrass community in the Blue Ridge region of Virginia is in mourning this week following the death of Jesse Carper, age 26, in a single car accident early Sunday morning.
Jesse played mandolin and sang, and had been a member of a number of popular regional bluegrass bands, notably The Bluegrass Brothers and The Locust Mountain Boys, with his father Steve. He was a talented vocalist with a rising reputation, and a true follower of the bluegrass way.
Family, friends, and the many bluegrass lovers in the area are devastated by the suddenness and finality of the loss, especially for a man so young and full of life. He will be long remembered for his soaring tenor voice and aggressive mandolin style.
Like most young men in rural Virginia, Jesse was also an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman in his native Craig County.
I had the pleasure of playing music with Jesse, and of hearing him play on stage a few times. His love for the music was infectious, as was his enthusiasm for performing.
R.I.P, Jesse Carper, and sincere condolences to the Carper family.
