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ABOUT
WYATT ELLIS: Named
2024s IBMA Momentum Instrumentalist of the Year, Wyatt Ellis has
quickly become one of the most-watched young musicians in bluegrass
music. In a recent review, Billboard
stated, “Ellis has quickly cemented himself as a sterling newcomer in
the bluegrass scene,” a prophetic assessment as evidenced by his debut
single, “Grassy Cove,” going to #1 on the Bluegrass Today charts.
At
the age of 14, he made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry, and released
his first album, Happy
Valley, which received widespread recognition. The album
features original compositions and collaborations, including his
chart-topping single “Blue Smoke,” featuring Marty Stuart. During one
week in March of 2024, Ellis had five
singles on the Bluegrass
Today charts. That same year, Ellis officially launched his
touring career with many appearances, including opening spots for Marty
Stuart and Molly Tuttle, and performing on an array of major music
festival stages including Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival,
MerleFest, Pilgrimage, and the Newport Folk Festival.
A
devotee of Bill Monroe, Ellis has been mentored by many iconic
musicians, including Sierra Hull, Bobby Osborne, Mike Compton, and
others. Ellis has studied with mandolin masters, composed his own
original instrumentals, and transitioned from playing alone in his
living room to performing seamlessly alongside bluegrass legends and
Hall of Famers. In his two short years on the scene, Ellis has become a
multi-instrumentalist and has been invited to perform on stage with
some of the most iconic musicians of this era, including Billy Strings,
Vince Gill, Molly Tuttle, Dierks Bentley, Peter Rowan, Sam Bush, Jerry
Douglas, Bryan Sutton, Dailey & Vincent, Ernest, and Marty Stuart.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, the proud East
Tennessee native is committed to his Appalachian roots and supporting
conservation efforts in the Smoky Mountains. His charitable work
further underscores his connection to his home and community, making
him a role model for both young musicians and fans of bluegrass music.
Wyatt’s journey is not only a testament to his musical talent, but also
to his community ties and dedication to preserving the tradition of
bluegrass music.
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