Whether it’s on stage or in the studio, Jack Lawrence is a formidable force. His recordings and performances, combining exciting, tasteful guitar solos and smooth vocals, provide listeners with performances that span musical traditions. Jack is best known as Doc Watson’s musical partner for over 25 years. Jack grew up backstage at a music hall where his father worked as a sound engineer and was exposed to all the great pro bluegrass and country music pioneers. That put the fire in the belly of the 11-year-old to pursue a career in music that began with television and festival appearances with bluegrass-gospel great, Carl Story. The early 70s found Jack in two seminal progressive bluegrass bands, The New Deal Stringband and the Bluegrass Alliance. It was a wealth of opportunity that continues to fuel his talents. Merle Watson hired him in 1983, and Jack continued to work with Doc after Merle’s death. Jack has recorded and performed with Doc, Sam Bush, Joan Baez, David Grisman, Peter Rowan, The Del McCoury Band, and many others. Jack is proud of his association with MerleFest since the planning stages of the very first festival and has performed at every one.
