Asheville, NC, August 20, 2025
News Summary
Asheville, N.C. will host ‘The Asheville Sessions: Celebrating 100 Years of Americana & Appalachia’ from Nov. 6-9. This event pays tribute to the region’s musical heritage and the pivotal role it played in American music with performances and a remastered album release. Key events include concerts, panel discussions, and free sessions aimed at reconnecting the community with its musical roots.
Asheville to Celebrate Century of Americana Music with “The Asheville Sessions” Events from Nov. 6-9
Asheville, N.C. will host “The Asheville Sessions: Celebrating 100 Years of Americana & Appalachia” from Thursday, Nov. 6 to Sunday, Nov. 9. This multi-day event pays tribute to the area’s rich musical history and its contributions to Americana music, particularly focusing on a century-long legacy connected to Appalachian traditions.
The Asheville Sessions honors the significant role played by Asheville in the early recording era of America’s music. In 1925, a pivotal gathering of musicians took place in Asheville under talent scout Ralph Peer, leading to the first commercial recordings of music in Appalachia. This historic event paved the way for a thriving music scene that continues to influence artists today.
As part of the celebration, a remastered album titled “Music from the Land of the Sky: The 1925 Asheville Sessions” will be released. This album features 28 tracks that have been restored by Grammy-nominated engineer Bryan Wright and will be available for pre-order in vinyl, CD, and digital formats. The album will be locally pressed by Citizen Vinyl in downtown Asheville, emphasizing commitment to the local music industry.
The event kicks off at the Wicked Weed Funkatorium, where a panel will discuss the historical significance of the Asheville sessions. Attendees can look forward to performances by the Russ Wilson Jazz Orchestra as part of the evening’s entertainment. Throughout the weekend, Pack Memorial Library will host free sessions covering various topics, including Asheville’s historical relevance in the music industry in 1925 and insights into the remastering process of the album.
Evening concerts at The Grey Eagle will feature prominent artists such as Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show and Jesse Smathers. On the second night, a concert at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium will showcase local talent including River Whyless, Tyler Ramsey, Toubab Krewe, and Floating Action. Additionally, local bands will perform a free daytime concert in the spirit of the original Asheville Sessions. Details regarding the concert’s location will be announced closer to the event.
The celebration aims not only to honor historical musicians but also to engage the community and introduce their musical stories to a new generation. The event is particularly timely, as it is viewed as an opportunity for communal healing following the recent impact of Hurricane Helene, which disrupted local festivals and affected many community members.
Finally, a concert and multimedia showcase featuring the bands Five Eight and PINKEYE is scheduled for the weekend, further enhancing the festival’s diverse offerings. This combination of events will serve to reconnect attendees with the musical traditions that influenced contemporary Americana artists and foster a renewed appreciation for this rich cultural heritage.
FAQ
- When does The Asheville Sessions event take place?
- The event runs from November 6 to November 9, 2023.
- Where will the events be held?
- Various venues in Asheville, including the Wicked Weed Funkatorium, Pack Memorial Library, The Grey Eagle, and Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.
- What is the significance of the 1925 Asheville Sessions?
- They were the first commercial recordings in any genre made in Appalachia, marking a pivotal moment in the history of American music.
- How can I access the remastered album?
- The album “Music from the Land of the Sky: The 1925 Asheville Sessions” is available for pre-order in vinyl, CD, and digital formats.
- Are there any free events during the festival?
- Yes, there will be free sessions at Pack Memorial Library and a daytime concert featuring local bands.
Key Features of The Asheville Sessions
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | November 6-9, 2023 |
| Venue | Various locations in Asheville, NC |
| Historic Significance | Commemoration of the first commercial music recordings in Appalachia from 1925 |
| Album Release | “Music from the Land of the Sky: The 1925 Asheville Sessions” featuring 28 tracks |
| Free Events | Daytime sessions at Pack Memorial Library and local band concerts |
| Evening Performances | Concerts featuring artists like Ketch Secor, River Whyless, and Tyler Ramsey |
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Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: Old Time Asheville Celebrates 100 Years of Appalachian Music
- Wikipedia: Americana (music)
- 828 News Now: Scouting America Highlights Inclusivity at Asheville Event
- Google Search: Appalachian music
- 828 News Now: Harvest Records Celebrates 21st Birthday
- Britannica: Bluegrass Music
- 828 News Now: Body of Missing 14-Year-Old Found in Arden Area
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
