The Dillards Concert

Most people recognize Rodney Dillard as the guitar playing Darling Boy from the Andy Griffith Show. In that role the Dillards are responsible for bringing bluegrass music into the mainstream of American culture. Rodney and the Dillards are in fact one of the most influential musical acts in the history of American music. They are considerd by many to be the pioneers of country rock and progressive bluegrass music. The Dillards are cited as primary influences by people such as The Eagles, The Byrds, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin and Elton John. Many songs written by the Dillards have become standards in the bulegrass world. It's almost impossible to go to a bluegrass jam or concert and not hear tunes like "Dooley" and "The Old Home Place." Albums such as Wheatstraw Suite and Copperfields are considered seminal works by many music historians.

Rodney Dillard and The Dillards have received numerous awards and accolades over the years. The band was inducted into the IBMA Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and the Missouri Music Hall of Fame in 2009. in 2022 the Dillards became members of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in Bean Blossom, IN. In 2023 Rodney received an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Missouri State University.

Today The Dillards continue to have a limited tour schedule. We're very excited and humbled that Rodney has chosen to join our festival once again this year. If you're a fan of Bluegrass Music and The Andy Griffith Show, the Dillards concert is an absolute must see. Rodney still puts on one of the best shows you'll ever experience. Don't miss your chance to see it!