Shue has been a major figure in the bluegrass community in central North Carolina since the 1960s, both as a luthier and instrument repairman, and as a performer. Known primarily as a mandolin builder with more than 200 of his instruments out there being played, he has also built guitars and resonator guitars, and worked on every kind of stringed instrument imaginable.
He’s also recognized as a banjo player who has worked in a number of popular regional bands, including the Carolina Mountain Boys, Southern Run, and Southern Junction. If you’ve lived or attended bluegrass events in the Piedmont this past 50 years, you’ve probably seen or met Bob.
Now at 79 years old, Bob is experiencing heart problems and is unable to continue his luthiery work. He will stop building after he completes the last two mandolins currently on his bench. Bob can still pick his banjo, but doesn’t take to the stage much anymore as his health simply won’t allow it.
So his many friends and fans are hosting a Bob Shue Appreciation Day on Saturday, January 9, at the Old Shaver School Event Center in Gold Hill. There will be music from 4:00-8:00 p.m. featuring Bob’s band, Southern Junction, along with The Grass Strings, Movin’ On Bluegrass, Back Porch Bluegrass, and The Hately Family. There will also be a hosted open jam, so all musicians are invited to bring their instruments.
Admission is by donation, and all proceeds will be donated to Bob to help with his mounting medical expenses.
This event is being managed by Sandy Hatley and Vivian Hopkins, who is the new President of the North Carolina Bluegrass Music Association. Vivian also runs The Fifth String and Co. with her husband, Glenn, and the E.H. Montgomery General Store in Gold Hill.
Gold Hill is located between Charlotte and Greensboro, NC. More details about the Bob Shue Appreciation Day can be found on Facebook.
