If you’re looking to be impressed, you will be – if you’re looking to make a friend, you already have. Darren Nicholson, who has played mountain music since his youth in Western North Carolina, is a high-caliber musician with substantial contributions to such acts as Alecia Nugent and Balsam Range.
Yes, he’s a punchy mandolinist with instrumentation nods to Bill Monroe and Marty Stuart, but he’s also an introspective songwriter, technical harmony singer, convincing lead vocalist, and a man on a mission. Since going solo, Nicholson has persistently and earnestly invested in his shows, making each one a tailored experience. They are genuine, entertaining, and an extended handshake to the community. He’s accomplished this all while managing to retain the fun-witted and approachable character formed in his raising.
The latest album, Wanderer, garnered critical acclaim and produced two #1 singles, and he’s also co-written hit songs for other artists, such as The Grascals’ “I Go” and “Just Let Me Know,” but Darren’s more interested in sharing raw, honest-to-goodness, quality music with his audience. Music that’s good for his soul and theirs too. “That’s all I want,” says Darren. “I want to be a positive part of other people’s lives with music, you know? I want to be an ambassador to roots music – tip my hat to the past while looking forward at the same time.”
Darren assembles a variety of all star collaborations – but no matter the lineup there’s a journey to experience in every show. You feel the adrenaline of a quick number like “Sugar Creek Gap”, the gravity of a soul searcher like “Things Left Undone”, and the levity of his unpredictable antics. “This music was intended to be played in a way that adds joy to the community. All I want is to restore that purpose, not to complete a transaction.”
He may not be focused on commercial success but his accomplishments have certainly earned recognition. Darren is the recipient of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association awards, along with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest honor bestowed by North Carolina’s governor. He’s also a Grammy nominee. But he won’t talk your ear off about that – he barely agreed to let us put that (long) list on here.
When you come out to a show, whatever you do, please come talk afterward. “I’m like Willie Nelson. ‘I don’t want fans, I want friends.’ It’s a communal thing.”
Darren Nicholson. Homegrown. Whole Hearted. Music with a purpose.
