Jerry Butler & The Blu-J’s had a big announcement last night. Nashville banjo monster Charlie Cushman has joined the band, and will begin touring with them right away.
Cushman has been widely-regarded as a “banjo player’s banjo player,” even while his infrequent touring has shielded him from a wider audience. He is a stone master of the traditional styles of Earl Scruggs and Don Reno, and plays with a drive, passion and tone that is to die for.
For many bluegrass lovers, he was most visible as a sideman for bluegrass comedian and picker Mike Snider, with whom he appeared numerous times on the Grand Ole Opry. Charlie has also toured and recorded with Vince Gill and made a true “banjo statement” on Tim O’Brien’s brilliant Red On Blonde CD in 1996.
Charlie joins current Blu-J’s Bobby Clark on mandolin (another Snider alumnus), John Marquess on bass, Tim Goins on resonator guitar, and founder and fearless leader Jerry Butler on guitar and vocals.
Jerry is understandably psyched about bringing Cushman into the band.
“To have Charlie Cushman AND Bobby Clark together again is awesome and to be sharing the stage with them both is exciting to say the least.
Tim, John, Bobby, Charlie and myself are excited about the music we want to bring to the audience and feel sure they’ll be entertained.”
You can find their tour schedule online.
