Billy Strings, Bryan Sutton and Royal Masat Celebrate Traditional Bluegrass Music and Genre Veterans on Night Two at the Woodward Theatre  

On September 6, 2025, the Woodward Theatre in Owensboro, Kentucky, served as a vibrant backdrop for an unforgettable evening of bluegrass music featuring celebrated artists Billy Strings, Bryan Sutton, and Royal Masat. This marked their second and final performance at the intimate 450-seat venue within the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum. The concert was a heartfelt tribute to the genre’s pioneers, resonating with both nostalgia and celebration of bluegrass’s abiding legacy.

The evening began with a setlist heavily influenced by Strings and Sutton’s collaborative live album, "Live at The Legion." Among the standout tracks was the engaging “Way Downtown,” a traditional staple that set the tone for the night. The trio seamlessly blended classics, with selections like “Make Me A Pallet On Your Floor” and “Nashville Blues,” paying homage to the late Doc Watson, whose influence looms large in the bluegrass tradition.

One of the highlights of Set I was the “Bill Cheatham,” marking a significant return after being absent from the setlist since December 13, 2023. It was refreshing for fans to witness the spontaneity of live music, as the ensemble dug deep into their library to resurface this gem. Strings followed with “Big Sandy River,” another rarity that hadn’t been performed since December 29, 2023, coming after a 117-show gap.

The warm camaraderie between the trio shone brightly as they maneuvered through the evening. Sutton took on lead vocals for “Solid Gone,” showcasing his dexterity as a musician. The first set closed with poignant renditions of Townes Van Zandt’s “If I Needed You” and the traditional “Darling Corey,” both amplifying the emotional depth of the concert.

The second set introduced a new dynamic as Strings and Sutton stepped forward as a duo. Sutton switched to the mandolin, delivering a stirring performance of “What Does the Deep Sea Say?” before launching into “Watson Blues,” both of which underscored the roots of bluegrass with their intricate melodies and harmonies.

Royal Masat rejoined the duo for the latter half, enriching the soundscape. An original composition, "Salty Sheep," co-written by Sutton from the album Turmoil & Tinfoil, was played for the first time since October 1, 2023. This reflected not just a celebration of tradition but an evolution of the genre as the trio boldly ventured into their creative expressions.

The throughline of the concert was a harmonious blend of nostalgia and innovation, portraying the trio’s commitment to honoring bluegrass tradition while simultaneously pushing its boundaries. The audience, rapt in attention, witnessed a concert that went beyond mere performance; it was a masterclass in bluegrass, intertwining the music of the past with the spirit of the present.

In the days following their Owensboro performance, Strings, Sutton, and Masat are scheduled to continue their tour with sold-out shows at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts in Boone, North Carolina, on September 11 and 12. This ongoing journey is indicative of the trio’s rising prominence in the bluegrass world, continuing to build on the legacy laid down by their predecessors.

From the soulful depths of bluegrass standards to their own creative compositions, the collaboration of these three talented musicians serves as a bridge between the rich history of bluegrass music and its dynamic future. As they continue their tour, the audiences look forward to more moments of brilliance, authenticity, and heartfelt music-making.

For fans eager to keep track of their progress and upcoming shows, further details are available at www.billystrings.com/tour. The duo of Strings and Sutton not only showcases individual prowess but epitomizes the collaborative spirit that bluegrass has cherished for decades. The performance at the Woodward Theatre is yet another testament to that enduring legacy.

As we reflect on an enchanting night at the Woodward Theatre, it becomes clear that the sounds of bluegrass continue to echo in a way that resonates deeply with both the seasoned aficionado and new listeners alike. As each note played honors the veterans of the genre, the new contributions by these artists provide hope and excitement for the future of bluegrass music.

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