The award will be presented during the Folk in Fusion concert on the 14th of January in the INEC venue, Killarney, County Kerry, which will launch the week long conference.
Peter Rowan, a Grammy Award winner and six-time Grammy nominee, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over five decades. From his early days under the mentorship of Bluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe to his influential work with the iconic band Old & In the Way, and his distinguished solo career, Rowan has made an indelible mark on the world of music.
Born in Wayland, Massachusetts, Rowan’s musical journey began in his youth, inspired by his musical family and the vibrant sounds of Boston’s Hillbilly Ranch. He formed his first band, The Cupids, while still in high school, and after three years of college, he pursued a life in music full-time. Rowan started his professional career in 1963 as the singer, rhythm guitarist, and songwriter for the Bluegrass Boys, led by Bill Monroe, where he developed his distinctive style that blends bluegrass with a rich, bluesy edge.
Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, Rowan was involved in various rock, folk, and bluegrass projects, including Earth Opera, Sea Train, Muleskinner, and The Rowans, alongside his brothers Chris and Lorin. His work with Old & In the Way, alongside David Grisman, Jerry Garcia, Vassar Clements, and John Kahn, produced the classic hit “Panama Red,” which has since become a staple in American music.
Rowan’s solo career has been equally noteworthy, with critically acclaimed albums such as “Dustbowl Children”, “Yonder”, and The “First Whippoorwill”. His collaborations with other music legends and his relentless touring schedule have further solidified his status as a beloved figure in the music world. He continues to perform internationally as a solo artist and with various bands, including the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band.
The Lifetime Achievement in Music Award recognizes Peter Rowan’s extraordinary contributions to music and his profound impact on the folk and bluegrass genres. This award marks a significant milestone for Your Roots Are Showing – Ireland’s Folk Conference, as it celebrates a true icon of the music world.
This isn’t just any concert; it’s the beginning of a new tradition. Folk in Fusion brings together some of the most celebrated artists in the world of folk and roots music:
Rhiannons Giddens, a Grammy and Pulitzer Prize winner known for her deep connection to roots music, will set the tone for an evening that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
Joining her is Liam Ó Maonlaí, the powerful voice behind Hothouse Flowers, whose music has become a cornerstone of Irish culture. Peter Rowan, a true legend in folk and bluegrass, will share the stage with Ron Block, the virtuoso banjo player from Alison Krauss & Union Station, blending their expertise in a way that only masters can.
The evening will also feature Thomas Gabriel, who carries on the legacy of his grandfather, Johnny Cash, with a unique blend of country and rock. Sandy Kelly, Ireland’s own first lady of country music, will bring her timeless voice to the stage, alongside rising Nashville star Kenny Sharp.
Brendan McCreanor, with his innovative approach to the uilleann pipes, and Gerry O’Connor, world renowned fiddle player with a deep respect for tradition, will showcase the rich sounds of Ireland. All will be joined by Brown Liquor Music who bring their high-energy to the mix, ensuring an amazing night of music.
This is the first year of an event that promises to become a staple in the Irish music calendar.
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