Banknotes was formed by a group of Wilkes County musicians who were friends with MerleFest co-founder Bill Young, who passed away in 1992. The group includes R.G. Absher, Randy Gambill, Billy Gee, Tony Joines, Mike Palmer, Jeff Pardue. Donnie Story and Wes Tuttle. These members represent some of the best musical talent Wilkes has to offer. And, all Banknotes' members have been involved in MerleFest since it began in 1988. They've played on numerous stages during the festival and have also worked in a capacity of roles from stagehands, stage managers and even as emcees. Each member of the group knew Young--a retired banker and virtuoso in the Chet Atkins- style of guitar playing personally and participated in various jam sessions at his home in Wilkesboro. Banknotes performs a mixture of Americana music, which includes bluegrass, Celtic and thumb and finger-style guitar playing.
