Pickin’ For Phil this weekend

Pickin' For PhilIt is often said that you don’t really know how many friends you have until you need them. If that is true, Phil Leadbetter is a man who has learned he has many, many friends through his ongoing battle with cancer. On Sunday, April 1, at the Paramount Theatre in Bristol, TN, a star-studded lineup will gather to benefit their friend.

Affectionately known as “Uncle Phil,” Leadbetter has enjoyed a long career as one of the premier resophonic guitar players in bluegrass music, having performed as part of J. D. Crowe’s New South, as a founding member of both Wildfire and Grasstowne, and more recently with the Whites. However, like most professional musicians, the Leadbetters are not equipped to weather an extended time without income, not to mention astronomical medical bills.

A reflection of the esteem in which Phil is held, an amazing array of artists are traveling from far and wide to donate their time to help him in his time of need. Presently confirmed to appear are Blue Highway, Dale Ann Bradley, Steve Gulley, Larry Cordle, Jim Hurst, Donna Ulisse & Rick Stanley, Mike Bubb, Missy Raines, Don Rigsby, Michael Cleveland, Kenny & Amanda Smith, Justin Moses, Kim Fox, Gena Britt, Jim & Valerie Gabehart, Julie & John Pennell, James Alan Shelton, and Jerry Butler, with additional artists being added daily.

Two shows will be presented, at 3:00 and 7:30 p.m., with tickets available for only $20.00. Tickets can be purchased online at www.etix.com or by calling 423-274-8920. For anyone unable to make the show who would like to help, donations can be made online.

Share this:

About the Author

James Gabehart

Jim has been playing the banjo, and other string instruments for nearly 40 years. Since joining the musicians union and becoming a performing musician at the age of 15, he won five West Virginia State Banjo Championships, as well as dozens of other competitions, and has taught hundreds of students. Jim was elected as Prosecuting Attorney for Lincoln County, WV in November 2012, and is an active touring performer with his wife and musical partner, Valerie. Learn more about their music at www.JimandValerieGabehart.com.