Del McCoury - What a Year

Del McCoury has had a very good year. The man is always smiling but you have to know that after 2003 he is smiling a little extra smile inside.

And why not? In 2003 Del was everywhere, playing to thousands of new and old fans alike.
He won his eighth Entertainer of the Year Award at the IBMA in Louisville Kentucky and was also told at that event that he would soon be inducted into the Grand Old Opry.

When the Opry moment finally arrived Del said of it “This is the greatest honor of any musicians career. The Opry is the greatest show on earth."

As if this wasn't enough Del has also just been nominated for a Grammy for Bluegrass Album of the Year. This is especially sweet as the album, It's Just The Night is the first release on Del 's own label and is being released in conjunction with Sugar Hill Records.

I last saw him and the band at Merlefest and there are very few people who can hold an audience like him. His wit and charm and total professionalism show both the years of experience and his love of what he does. His band is incredible and features 2 of his sons, Ronnie and Robbie.

Rather than rest on those laurels Del is heading into 2004 in style with a New Year's Eve show in Nashville alongside Leftover Salmon. Then in January he is touring again.

Here are the dates for the new year so far.

Do yourself a favor and catch one of those shows or buy the new album. This is bluegrass played at it's finest by a band who will go down in musical history side by side with the greats like Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs and the other true pioneers of this magical genre.

JigTime wishes to send a some very happy holiday greetings to Del and the boys and a huge thanks for all the great music in 2003.