Is it pure coincidence that Joe Dean is announced as the new banjo player with Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver on the opening day of baseball season? It would appear that Doyle has traded former banjo picker Jessie Baker to Dailey & Vincent for Dean, and a drummer to be named later.
But seriously folks…
Touring musicians have a plethora of reasons for changing bands; sometimes it’s a matter of schedule demands, other times no more than a desire to exercise their chops in a different setting. We know that Joe Dean is also a strong bass singer, so perhaps he is hoping for a chance to throw down low with Doyle.
In any event, Joe is expected to start with Doyle in the next 2-3 weeks.
Like most young bluegrassers, Joe says that Quicksilver’s music has been around since he started playing.
“I am very excited about this opportunity. I have admired Doyle’s style of music since I was a kid.
I wish Darrin and Jamie the best of luck and thank them for allowing me to be part of their success for the last 5 years.
I can’t wait to be a part of one of the greatest bands in bluegrass history, and share the stage with a legend like Doyle Lawson.”
And Doyle makes it a mutual admiration society…
“I have been admiring Joe Dean’s skills as a young gun in this business. Over the past few years, I have grown to truly admire the combination of his creative banjo style and his traditional vocal prowess. I have had my eye on Joe Dean for quite some time and I am so pleased he has committed to joining Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. He will bring a new and exciting energy to our efforts. To me, this feels like a new beginning!”
Like Doyle, I have had my eye on this talented young man for some time. I first met Joe when he was still in high school, and playing banjo with Bull Harman. It was clear at 15 that Joe had his head screwed on straight, and could eat a five string banjo alive. He will surely be a fine addition to Quicksilver.
