Thomas Claxton is an award-winning vocalist, songwriter, guitarist, concert producer, and entertainer based in Savannah, Georgia. Known for his powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and unwavering dedication to live music, Claxton has built a reputation as one of the Southeast’s most versatile and respected independent musicians. Over the course of his career, he has performed hundreds of shows annually, sharing his music with audiences throughout the United States while continuing to expand his influence as both a performer and music industry advocate.

A classically trained first tenor, Claxton developed his vocal abilities through years of study and mentorship. His musical foundation blends classical technique with the passion and energy of rock music, creating a distinctive sound that has become his trademark. Long before earning regional and national recognition, he honed his craft performing in clubs, bars, festivals, and concert venues throughout the Savannah area, steadily building a loyal following through hard work, consistency, and a deep connection with audiences.

As a songwriter, Claxton is known for creating music that combines thoughtful lyrics, memorable melodies, and emotional authenticity. His original recordings have earned praise from critics and listeners alike, while his live performances showcase an ability to seamlessly move between rock, pop, soul, and acoustic styles. Whether performing solo or fronting his bands, he delivers every song with conviction and professionalism. His projects have included the acclaimed groups The Myth and Sonic Temple, both of which have helped establish his reputation as a leading figure in Savannah’s music community.

Throughout his career, Claxton has received numerous honors for his work as a vocalist and songwriter. A multiple-time Indie Music Channel and RMA award winner, he has been recognized for his achievements as a recording artist and performer. He has also been named Best Male Vocalist multiple times by industry publications and has earned recognition from organizations dedicated to promoting excellence in music performance and education.

Beyond performing, Claxton has become known for his work as a concert producer and promoter. His innovative “Me, Myself & Us” Concert Series has brought world-renowned musicians, legendary session players, and celebrated recording artists to Savannah for unique performances and audience discussions. Through these events, he has created opportunities for music fans to experience intimate encounters with artists whose work has shaped generations of popular music. The series has featured musicians associated with artists such as James Taylor, David Bowie, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Tom Petty, and many others.

Claxton’s commitment to music extends beyond the stage. He has worked as a vocal coach, mentor, and advocate for music education, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring performers. His contributions to the music industry have been recognized by organizations such as the NAMM Foundation, which has highlighted his journey as an example of dedication and perseverance in the arts.

Today, Thomas Claxton continues to perform, write, record, and produce events while proudly representing Savannah, Georgia, on stages across the country. His career stands as a testament to the power of persistence, artistic integrity, and a lifelong passion for music. Whether captivating audiences with an acoustic guitar, leading a full band, or bringing musical legends together through his concert series, Claxton remains committed to creating meaningful musical experiences and inspiring others through the universal language of song.

Kristin Scott Benson is the seven-time International Bluegrass Music Association’s Banjo Player of the Year, recipient of the 2018 Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, and 2024 inductee into the American Banjo Hall of Fame.

Since 2008, she has been a member of Grammy-nominated and two-time IBMA Entertainers of the Year, The Grascals. Kristin is one of the nation's top bluegrass banjo players, exhibiting impeccable taste, timing, and tone. With an attentive ear to back-up, she is known and respected as a true team player among her peers.

​

Many consider her to be one of the first females to successfully be a side-musician in a top-tiered bluegrass band:

​

“There was one grass ceiling no woman could cut through—until Kristin Scott Benson came along, that is. Almost two years ago, she joined The Grascals. Not to front the band, not to sing, not to be eye candy, but instead to drive the group with her five string banjo. Until then, no woman had ever been hired to play one of the most defining of the bluegrass instruments in an Alist, festival-headlining, all-male band….It’s a high profile gig, as Kristin takes the banjo where no woman has taken it before.”

Larry Nager – “Kristin Scott Benson – Cutting the Grass Ceiling” Bluegrass Unlimited: Oct, 2010.

In 2022, Kristin became the newest endorser for Deering Banjos. Benson now plays a Custom Deering Golden Wreath model with a curly maple neck and speed finish. This banjo came about after trying a number of different Deering banjos and is an amalgamation of all the different models in Deering's Golden Series - the Golden Wreath, Golden Era, and Rustic Wreath. ​

Kristin's newest release is a unique project. Under the artist's name Benson, the 2023 album Pick Your Poison was released by Mountain Home Records and is a collaborative effort between two of bluegrass music's most treasured instrumentalists: Kristin and her husband, mandolinist Wayne Benson. With decades of experience in top-tier bands, both have established themselves as stalwarts in the community. After years of paving separate musical paths, the two finally decided it was time to integrate their identities and create something new together. Benson is their first combined effort, despite having been married for over 20 years.​

Kristin has been featured on The Grascals’ albums since 2008. As part of the Grascals, Kristin’s media performances include The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Fox & Friends, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, and CBS’ The Talk, among others. The band has also performed for Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, as well as accumulating over 200 performances on The Grand Ole Opry.

For over two decades, NewFound Road has been known for powerful harmonies, world-class musicianship, and songs that reach deep into the heart of American roots music. Founded in 2001, the band quickly carved out a reputation as one of the most dynamic groups in bluegrass and acoustic music.

With a sound built on soulful vocals, tight arrangements, and instrumental firepower, NewFound Road became a favorite on stages across the country, releasing a string of acclaimed albums and earning respect from fans and peers alike. Along the way, the band has shared their music everywhere from intimate listening rooms to major festivals, to the legendary stage of The Grand Ole Opry, leaving lasting impressions with their blend of tradition and innovation.

After stepping away from the road in 2013, NewFound Road has reunited with renewed passion and energy. The lineup features Tim Shelton (lead vocals, guitar), Jr. Williams (banjo, tenor vocals), Joe Booher (mandolin, harmony vocals), Ethan Ratliff (guitar), and Sam Lauderbaugh (bass) — a powerhouse group that balances seasoned experience with fresh creativity.

Now signed to Billy Blue Records, NewFound Road is back in the studio and back on stage, bringing fans both the timeless sound they’ve always loved and brand-new music that reflects the band’s growth and vision. With 2026 marking their 25th anniversary, NewFound Road is writing an exciting new chapter in a story that’s far from finished.

NewFound Road is back — stronger than ever, ready to share the next season of songs, stories, and unforgettable performances.

Katelyn is the last founding member and now manager of Backline. She has grown up around bluegrass music her entire life. Her dad, David Mabry, sang and played banjo for 19 years with the King James Boys. He wrote a lot of gospel music that they performed through those years.

She began playing guitar at age, 5 but put it down until she was age 10. From 10 years old and on, she began to work hard to grow and get better at the instrument. At age 14 years, she began to try and hone her skills as a song writer. In 2016, she was approached by Travis Tucker, with the idea to start a band based around original music and a female vocalist. She joined the band and they were off to the races.

Since 2016, Katelyn has been with every version of Backline. She took over the business and management of the band in April of 2023.

She released a solo project called "Getaway" in June of 2023. This projected rocketed her writing career, even more, into professional co-writing. She has had the opportunity to write with many great writers of the Bluegrass Industry and looks forward to writing with them again and adding many more sessions in as the doors open and time allows.

Her love, drive and hard work keeps her chasing this dream and working to create a great environment for Backline members, a great sound for fans and a great legacy for Backline.

She resides with her husband of 10 years, Dom and their 3 kids,son Walker and daughters Dakota and Bristol in Easley, SC.

Dan Tyminski was six years old when his parents began taking him to fiddle contests, square dances, and bluegrass festivals across New England. For a young musician who would later become one of the biggest names in modern-day bluegrass, those early experiences were life changing.

“Watching live music always spoke to me much louder than sitting in front of my record player,” he remembers. “I loved it. Wherever music was being played, I wanted to go watch. Years later, I still feel that way.”

Throughout his 30+ year career, Tyminski has left his mark in every corner of modern music. His voice famously accompanies George Clooney’s performance of the Stanley Brothers’ classic song, “I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow,” in the film, Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? and his vocal collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii on the song “Hey Brother” was a global smash, having been streamed more than a billion times to date. His diverse solo projects and years of work with Alison Krauss and Union Station have yielded troves of award-winning music.

In recent years, Tyminski’s live shows with the Dan Tyminski Band have become bluegrass fan favorites and are regularly on the must-see lists among music fans of any genre.

With his newest album release – the Grammy-nominated 2024 concert album Dan Tyminski: Live From The Ryman – he captures the magic of those live shows, while also proving that he still has the same passion for live music as he did when he was growing up.

His earliest touring and recording work was as a part of the band, Green Mountain Bluegrass. He later joined the influential bluegrass group, Lonesome River Band, before embarking on his three decades of work with Alison Krauss and Union Station.

The first album that Tyminski recorded as a solo artist was the soul-stirring Carry Me Across the Mountain (2000), followed by the Grammy-nominated Wheels (2008) which was named the 2009 Album of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. His work with the EDM artist, Avicii, inspired Dan to create the genre-defying Southern Gothic album, released in 2017 to much critical acclaim. Tyminski would then showcase again his heart for bluegrass with the 2022 EP tribute to Tony Rice, One More Time Before You Go, which included guest performances by Molly Tuttle, Sam Bush, Dailey & Vincent, and Billy Strings. The following year saw the release of the full-length bluegrass album, God Fearing Heathen, which quickly hit #1 on Billboard’s Bluegrass Albums chart.

Over the course of his career, Tyminski has also evolved into a prolific songwriter, penning songs with Monty Criswell, Phillip Lammonds, Kristian Bush, Ashley Monroe, Chris Stapleton and many others.

Dan has been honored with 14 Grammy Awards and is a four-time Male Vocalist of the Year honoree by the International Bluegrass Music Association. He has also recorded instrumental or vocal harmony contributions for projects by Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Joan Osborne, Charlie Daniels, Kenny Chesney, LeAnn Rimes, Rob Thomas, and Charlie Haden, to name a few. Tyminski certainly represents the pinnacle of modern bluegrass music.

While Dan enjoys a good conversation and a good cigar, he can often be found participating in charitable Pro-Am golf tournaments, as well as competing regularly in the Foosball tournament circuit.

Muriel Anderson is renowned for her expertise on the 20-string harp-guitar, yet it is her gentle sense of humor and uplifting melodies that leave her audience smiling. Guitar Player Magazine lists her as one of the 50 noteworthy guitarists of all time. She has been listed among the top ten female guitarists, and is the first woman to win the National Fingerstyle Guitar Championship.

She has recorded with country legend Chet Atkins, performed with Les Paul and countless other greats in Muriel Anderson’s ALL STAR GUITAR NIGHT® over 30+ years. Muriel’s CD Nightlight Daylight placed first in its category in 11 national awards, followed by Acoustic Chef, an international CD with cookbook. For her recent release Sailing Dreams, she has created a board game to accompany the music. Her open-heartedness extends beyond her music, as she founded the Music for Life Alliance to help foster music education for kids and donates a portion of Acoustic Chef sales to World Central Kitchen.

CURRENT “PASSPORT” SHOW

Muriel Anderson takes you on a journey through many countries with her 20-string harp-guitar enhanced by a backdrop of visuals by Bryan Allen, artfully projected onto a screen behind her. At many shows, the audience is handed “guitar passport books” to request what countries they’d like to visit in the music and visuals. Her compositions capture the essence of authentic traditional music, and she sings in up to 10 languages. You’ll travel with her on her sailing adventures, and virtually (sometimes actually) taste the experiences that led to her release “Acoustic Chef.” If you’re not already familiar with Muriel, you will find yourself smiling when you feel the joy of her music shining through a stunning array of styles.

Muriel Anderson is a good friend and a great guitarist. She deserves national recognition.

Just one hell of a great player …a great personality and what I like is the touch that Muriel has on the guitar, the way she plays it like we all wish to play.

Her double CD “Nightlight Daylight” won top honors in a dozen awards and is the first ever to include an interactive fiber-optic lighted CD cover, her own concept. It includes collaborations with fellow musicians Victor Wooten, Phil Keaggy, Mark Kibble of Take 6, Danny Gottlieb, Stanley Jordan, Tommy Emmanuel, Earl Klugh, Howard Levy, Jeff Coffin, Tierra Negra and members of the Nashville Symphony.

Her recording of “El Noi de la Mare” appears in Woody Allen’s film “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.” and her “Heartstrings” recording accompanied the astronauts on the space shuttle Discovery. Muriel Anderson has released more than a dozen instrumental CD’s, eight instructional DVD’s and guitar books published by Hal Leonard, Mel Bay, and Zen-On Japan. Her compositions include commissioned classical works for the Nashville Chamber Orchestra and Vox Caelestis Womens Choir, as well as songs which have appeared as title tracks for three albums by various artists.

Muriel has published articles in Guitar Player, Acoustic Guitar, Fingerstyle Guitar, Classical Guitar and Frets magazines, and has been a regular columnist for Acoustic Guitar Japan magazine. She has many teaching DVDs and books. Muriel teaches online via TrueFire.com/h2495 and StringMasters as well as at guitar workshops across the country. many of which are sponsored by her GHS Signature strings. She plays and records on many handmade instruments including Tierra Negra flamenco, Camps, Mike Doolin harp guitars, Mike Brittain harp guitars, DT guitars, Alvarez Yairi, McPhearson, Emerald, and Morris steel string guitars (Japan). She uses Seymour Duncan D-Tar and Barbera pickups.

She has demonstrated excellent technique and has the fine musicianship to communicate well to her audiences.

Acoustic guitarist Muriel Anderson… has justifiably gained a reputation as one of the world’s best, and most versatile, guitar instrumentalists.

The Sullivan Sisters have dazzled audiences since childhood with their unique blend of fast bluegrass picking and captivating sibling harmonies, with music ranging from lyrical originals to timeless folk classics to blazing instrumentals.
Inspired by the bluegrass community in North Carolina where they were born and raised, Soraya and Lucaya began taking guitar and banjo lessons at ages 8 and 6. Their music drew influence from the bluegrass community surrounding them, and they carried their love of the genre with them when they relocated to Chicago.
Over the past ten years, The Sullivan Sisters have toured the country as featured performers at Merlefest, the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum’s Romptober Festival, IBMA’s Bluegrass Live Festival, the Woodsongs Old Time Radio Hour, and the Evanston Folk Festival. Their instrumental talents have garnered them national distinction, including First Prize in Banjo and Third Prize in Guitar at Rockygrass 2023, First Prize in Fiddle, Second Prize in Guitar, and Third Prize in Mandolin at RockyGrass 2025, and Second Prize in the 2024 Galax Old Fiddlers Convention Bluegrass Banjo contest. Additionally, The Sullivan Sisters won Third Prize at the 2025 RockyGrass Band Competition.
The sisters have recently formed a five-piece band by joining forces with three phenomenal teen pickers and longtime friends: Finn McGuinness on fiddle, Gabe Zinser on mandolin, and Sammy Mougin on bass. The new band launched its debut to a sold-out, standing room audience in Chicago in January 2025, and has multiple tours planned for 2025 and beyond. In September 2025, The Sullivan Sisters signed to Dark Shadow Recording in Nashville, TN. Keep an eye out for new music coming soon!

Jet Poindexter Hatu is an entrepreneur, community leader, and lifelong lover of bluegrass music whose roots run deeper than most. Raised on the road, Jet grew up traveling on a tour bus with her father—a professional banjo player—immersed in the heart of the bluegrass scene from an early age.

Now as an adult, she’s come full circle, reconnecting with that foundation and sharing her passion in a modern way. Through social media, Jet brings bluegrass to life with clogging and flat footing, daily song features, and quotes that keep the spirit of the genre alive for a new generation.

Her journey blends tradition with storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless sound—and proving that bluegrass isn’t just music, it’s a way of life.