The Rick Dollar Show Podcast-The Grascals

Few bands have made as lasting an impact on bluegrass music as The Grascals. From the very beginning, their blend of modern traditional bluegrass, gospel, and country influences, matched with world-class musicianship and an unshakable love for the genre, has earned them a spot among the most respected and enduring groups in acoustic music. Formed in 2004 in Nashville, Tennessee, The Grascals are a band built on friendship, shared roots, and a common vision to create bluegrass music that honors tradition while forging its own identity. Their breakout moment came fast—within months of forming, they were hand-picked by Dolly Parton to serve as her opening act and backing band on tour. That early endorsement set the tone for the band’s trajectory: respected by legends, loved by fans, and celebrated by the industry. Their debut album, The Grascals announced their arrival with authority. It won IBMA’s Emerging Artist of the Year and Album of the Year and included a duet with Dolly Parton on “Viva Las Vegas” that showcased their versatility and crossover appeal. From there, the accolades kept coming with two IBMA Entertainers of the Year awards, three GRAMMY nominations, a Dove Award nomination and a host of other awards and recognition. Now with thirteen albums, performances all over the world and for two United States Presidents, The Grascals can truthfully say they have the best of both worlds — the steadiness of a veteran group that knows who they are and where they’re going, and the excitement and energy of an ensemble that knows it still has something to prove. The band’s collaborative spirit is another hallmark of their career. In addition to Dolly Parton, The Grascals have recorded and toured with artists including Charlie Daniels, Vince Gill, Kenny Rogers, Hank Williams Jr., George Jones, The Oak Ridge Boys, Patty Loveless, Dierks Bentley, Brooks & Dunn, Brad Paisley, Joe Nichols, Steve Wariner, The Jordanaires, Tom T. Hall, and more. Their respect for their musical heroes and peers has allowed them to build bridges between bluegrass and other genres, expanding their reach without compromising their sound. The Grascals are known for their ability to balance traditional drive with contemporary flair along with their authenticity, humility, and showmanship, The Grascals are a fan favorite on the festival circuit and are regular performers on the Grand Ole Opry with over 200 guest appearances. Their live shows combine technical excellence with emotional storytelling and a dose of humor, making every performance memorable. Now more than two decades into their career, The Grascals remain at the top of their game—honoring the past, embracing the present, and helping shape the future of bluegrass music. With a renewed spirit and zeal to continue to create and blaze new music trails, be on the lookout for much more to come from The Grascals.