Expanding the Boundaries of Bluegrass in “American Currents: State of the Music”

In the 1960s and 1970s, a new generation of innovative musicians fell in love with bluegrass—but weren’t afraid to break from its long-held traditions, incorporating elements of rock, jazz, and other music from around the globe. The “newgrass” movement—guided by acts such as New Grass Revival—expanded bluegrass’s creative horizons, ushering in a progressive spirit that still courses through the genre today.

In 2020, mandolin and fiddle player Sam Bush was inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame as a member of New Grass Revival, which he led from 1971 to 1989. In 2023, he was inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame once again, this time, as a solo artist.

Singer, songwriter, bandleader, and blazing guitarist Molly Tuttle won her first Grammy at the start of 2023 for Best Bluegrass Album and wasted no time in delivering an expansive, ambitious follow-up. In 2024, she took home another Grammy in the same category for "City of Gold," a tribute to her West Coast upbringing.

In 2023, singer, songwriter, and virtuoso guitarist Billy Strings was named Entertainer of the Year at the International Bluegrass Music Association Awards for the third consecutive year. He was also honored as the Americana Music Association's Artist of the Year for the second time in a row.

From Kentucky to California, explore the state of bluegrass music through the stories of trailblazing artists carving new paths in the musical landscape. “American Currents: State of the Music,” the annual Museum exhibit spotlighting country's latest chapter, is now open.