Bluegrass has its roots in celtic folk music, but has become a musical genre that covers a vastly diverse pool of musicians. Today's bluegrass players range from old time and country-influenced artists to artists that are more mainstream, and even showcase their rock & roll and pop influences. If you're a new fan of the genre, this list of players can give you a really good start on your burgeoning bluegrass knowledge. (Listed in alphabetical order by the artist's first name.)
Sam Bush
Mandolin player Sam Bush has become one of the most influential artists on his insrument—through both his solo work and the work he's done with other artists. He's been credited with starting the newgrass style with his band New Grass Revival. He's played with giants like Bela Fleck and Lyle Lovett, along with Jerry Douglas, Garth Brooks, Tim O'Briens, and several others.
The Stanley Brothers
Ralph and Carter Stanley were, arguably, one of the best teams in the history of bluegrass music. Their style and musicianship has influenced and inspired nearly every artist that followed in their wake. They formed the Clinch Mountain Boys and quickly became contemporaries of bluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe. They went through nearly two dozen members over the course of the Clinch Mountain Boys' career, and were inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Honor in 1992.Tim O'Brien
Fiddler, acoustic guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Tim O'Brien is not only one of the most skilled multi-instrumentalists, he's also one of the most versatile artists in Bluegrass today. His music ranges in scope from clear celtic bluegrass influences to southern country roots with a smattering of mountain music. His band Hot Rize was the IBMA's first Artist of the Year in 1990.Tommy Jarrell
Fiddler Tommy Jarrell never really made a living off of his music, but he did manage to influence and inspire an entire generation of artists. Although his style of playing has become known as old timey fiddle, his influence has been felt throughout the old time, folk, and bluegrass communities.Tony Rice
It seems almost silly that, alphabetically, Tony Rice's entry in this list puts him very last. He is quite possibly one of the greatest bluegrass guitarists ever to meet the instrument. Few up-and-comers wouldn't list him as one of their influences. His collaborations with David Grisman are remarkable, as is the work he's done with Norman Blake.