In the bluegrass and Americana music world, certain names are quickly rising to the top, and Wyatt Ellis is undeniably one of them. Two years ago, there were hushed whispers of awe of this ‘new kid’  when he attended the DelFest Academy. Last year, in 2023, Ellis joined Billy Strings onstage as part of Doc Watson's 100th Birthday Tribute and then followed it up with appearances at MerleFest, joining Peter Rowan on stage and mixing it along with some of the legends of the mandolin at Mando Mania.  

This year, after the release of his debut album,  Happy Valley, Ellis continues to grow and emerge as a fan favorite on the summer music festival circuit. His performances at the genre's most prestigious festivals, MerleFest and Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival cement his status as a standout talent.

In April, at MerleFest in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, Ellis continued to impress with a performance that was both high-energy and deeply heartfelt. Known for its commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Doc and Merle Watson, MerleFest is a festival where every note counts. Wyatt Ellis rose to the occasion with a set that honored the festival's roots while pushing the boundaries of the genre. His ability to connect with the audience was evident as he effortlessly navigated between fast-paced tunes and soulful ballads.

In June 2024, Ellis, along with his touring band, performed for the first time at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee.

Earlier this month, Ellis continued to captivate the audiences in upstate New York at the Grey Fox Bluegrass Music Festival with his impeccable musicianship and stage presence. The festival, renowned for its eclectic lineup and vibrant atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for Ellis to showcase his unique blend of traditional bluegrass and modern influences. His set was a masterclass in both technical skill and emotional depth, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his next move.

Ellis has garnered the attention of his musical peers. It was only a few years ago that Sierra Hull began to mentor a young Wyatt Ellis, and he was embraced by the legends and more established artists and joined them on stage. This year, it seems like moths to a flame; other artists in the bluegrass community are drawn to Ellis and eagerly joining him on stage. This year, we have witnessed the mesmerizing and sizzling sit-ins he's brought to the stage throughout these two festivals. The list of those who have joined Ellis on stage at times seems too numerous to mention, as we have witnessed him perform both onstage and backstage with countless musicians. Just off the top of our heads, we recall memorable sit-ins by mighty musicians, including Peter Rowan, The Kruger Brothers, and Jim Lauderdale. 

What set Ellis apart at both festivals was not just his technical prowess but his ability to infuse every performance with genuine passion and creativity.  Whether through a virtuosic solo or a poignant lyric, Ellis demonstrated why he's quickly becoming a name to watch in the bluegrass community.

As the festival season continues, one thing is clear: Wyatt Ellis is not just participating in the bluegrass scene — he's shaping its future. Just a few weeks ago, the International Bluegrass Music Association (IMBA)  nominated Ellis for two awards, "Momentum Instrumentalist Artist" and "Best New Artist" - and we are sure this isn't the last time we'll see his name on one of those ballots.  

Wyatt Ellis will perform today, July 26th, at FloydFest 24 ~ Horizon.

• 3:00 pm -3:45 pm at the Oasis Stage
• 5:00 pm  - 6:00 pm Recording a session at the FloydFest Bus Stop 

If you are unable to attend his FloydFest performance, please check Wyatt Ellis's upcoming tour schedule.  As Ellis's musical prowess and popularity grows, so does his tour radius!  Take notice of Wyatt Ellis as he performs at just a few more festivals this summer, including The Newport Folk Festival, Bristol Rhythm & Roots, AMERICANAFEST, the International Bluegrass Music Festival, and Watermelon Pickers Fest just a little over 60 miles from Washington, DC, in Berryville, Virginia.