The Country Gentlemen Show @ The Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival

Start: Friday, September 18, 2026 12:00PM
End: Friday, September 18, 2026 10:00PM

.The Country Gentlemen Show proudly carries forward a rich 21-year legacy dedicated to preserving and honoring the pioneering spirit of the Hall of Fame bluegrass band, The Country Gentlemen. Originally founded in 2005 by late bluegrass veteran Bill Yates—a long-time alumnus of the original Washington, D.C.-born group—the tribute ensemble was created to keep the classic progressive bluegrass sound alive. Today, they beautifully balance deep nostalgia with a forward-looking creative path. Their status as a major force in the contemporary landscape is cemented by a marquee signing with Nashville-based Turnberry Records / Huckleberry Records, under which they are currently working on a highly anticipated Huckleberry Records Gospel project. On stage, the group delivers the signature high-energy driving instrumentation and unmistakable, tight vocal harmonies that redefined the genre. The powerhouse lineup is fronted by Mike Phipps (lead vocals/guitar), whose deep, rich baritone carries an uncanny, celebrated similarity to the legendary Charlie Waller. Rounding out the veteran ensemble are Lynwood Lunsford on banjo, Darren Beachley on Resophonic guitar and dobro, Wayne Lanham on mandolin and fiddle, and Eric Marshall providing the rock-solid foundation on bass. Together, these seasoned musicians remain a premier mainstay on the national festival circuit, serving as active custodians of a living American musical heritage