The Stevens Family bluegrass band from West Virginia has reached that point which signals the end of their touring career. Like so many other like family groups, it is the point where the younger members are ready to pursue career goals that conflict with a family band.
Patriarch and banjo picker J.W. Stevens posted the following notice recently on their agency’s web site, Graham Talent Group, announcing the end of their journey in bluegrass Gospel.
“It is with bittersweet emotions that I come to you our friends and fans of The Stevens Family. Bitter that we will no longer be touring as a full time family band. The sweet part is that Luke, the guitarist, and Ben, the mandolinist have signaled that they wish to go further into the ministry of the Lord Jesus. As their parents we are elated for their commitment to the Lord but saddened that we won’t be playing for our favorite people, bluegrass friends and fans.
We want to thank all of the promoters that have given The Stevens Family the opportunity to stand before you and share our music.We want to say a special ‘Thank You’ to our agent, Randy Graham for his many countless hours of service to the furtherance of our mission.
It has been a good run for the past 14 years and lots of good memories have been made.
Please continue to keep The Stevens Family in your thoughts and prayers as we all endeavor to journey on down this road called Life.”
Fans and friends can leave notes and well wishes on their Facebook page.
UPDATE 9:30 a.m. – Eldest sister Sissy Stevens has announced that she will be auditioning members for a new, all-female bluegrass band. Sissy will play bass and is seeking ladies to handle guitar, mandolin, banjo and fiddle. She can be reached through Facebook.
