MerleFest 2022 wrapped up another prolific year of performances over the weekend. Highlights of the Wilkesboro, N.C. festival included a surprise set by Old Crow Medicine Show, We Banjo 3’s late-night dance party, The Wayback’s Workingman’s Dead performance, and many other memorable moments that promise to keep attendees talking till next year’s festivities. 

The festival got underway on Thursday, April 28, with a performance by Durand Jones & The Indications on the Watson Stage, where Jones and drummer Aaron Frazer traded off vocals during the single set R&B infused performance. The first day also featured a set turn singalong led by festival newcomer Josh Turner. 

Friday featured last-minute festival addition, Sierra Hull, who wowed the crowd. Then, North Carolina’s Rissi Palmer turned things up on the Cabin Stage. Steep Canyon Rangers performed a Sunset Session Set and invited Sam Bush to join them on stage. Then, Greensky Bluegrass played on the Watson Stage ahead of their Jazz Fest appearance. Friday night was capped with dancing as We Banjo 3 and friends electrified the stage. 

On Saturday, The Waybacks delivered their annual Album Hour performance, giving way to a Dead-infused set. Day three of the festival included an unscheduled Old Crow Medicine Show’s appearance. Next, Allison Russell and Scythian laid down an enchanting performance. Finally, Saturday wrapped with special guests Kaia Kater, Donna The Buffalo, and Caleb Caudle who turned out for the Late Night Jam. 

The final day of MerleFest featured performances by Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band on the Watson Stage. Emmylou Harris also played and welcomed Sam Bush as a guest. Each band ripped into hit after hit, taking listeners on an exciting journey to finish a monumental weekend.

The four-day music extravaganza will return to Wilkesboro, N.C, on April 27 through 30, 2023. For more information, visit merlefest.org.

Watch Emmylou Harris performing alongside Sam Bush at MerleFest 2022 below.