September 07, 2019

5PM MAIN STREET PARK STAGE

Larry Sparks is a dedicated leader for bluegrass music. Larry is among the most widely known and respected touring musicians in bluegrass and gospel music today. Larry began his career in the mid-1960s as a guitarist with the Stanley Brothers and later became lead vocalist for Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. Larry  went on to form his own band in 1969. (The Lonesome Ramblers) He has recorded and toured with his band for nearly 50 years, releasing over 60 albums and delighting countless fans with his soulful vocals and unparalleled musicianship. music at Dollywood where he stayed two

years. A year later, Adkins was named a Kentucky Colonel - the highest title of honor bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Commissions for Kentucky colonels are given by the governor and the secretary of state to individuals in recognition of noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to a community, state or the nation. He is also a proud Mason and Shriner.

September 07, 2019

3PM MAIN STREET PARK

Billie Renee’ Johnson was born and raised in the small Eastern Kentucky town of Mt. Sterling. She and her two older sisters grew up traveling to area churches to perform with her family’s gospel group. Billie Renee’s parents, both singers and musicians, helped her develop a love for all genres of music, but most importantly classic country and bluegrass music. 

Soon after graduating college with a degree in Criminology in 1996 she formed her band, Billie Renee’ and Cumberland Gap in 1997. She plays bass and sings lead and tenor vocals with the group. Billie Renee’ and Cumberland Gap was named SPBGMA Band Competition Winners in 2006. In the twenty years since the band was formed they have shared a stage with some of the finest artists on some of the most well-known stages.