After 50 years, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, one of the seminal folk bands in America, is losing an important member. Multi-instrumentalist John McEuen will move on following a reorganization of the band’s structure which, as reliable sources report, changed McEuen’s official status from “Founding member” to “Employee.” McEuen has performed nearly 10,000 concerts, recorded some 35 albums (four platinum and five gold), and won CMA, ACM, IBMA and Grammys with the group as well as numerous awards in his concurrent solo career, including producing Steve Martin’s Grammy-winning album The Crow.

“In assessing the situation and our musical, performance and business differences, the timing is appropriate for my departure,” McEuen said in a formal statement. “I will move forward…and can now concentrate on my independent endeavors.”

Those endeavors are impressive: his recent album, Made in Brooklyn, received honors and high praise across the country, including here at Elmore Magazine, and his performances are filled with high-energy music, very funny patter and the musicianship which has earned McEuen the nickname “String Wizard.” He also hosts the popular Acoustic Traveller radio show on Sirius/XM.

McEuen is booked solo well into 2018. To find a concert near you, click HERE