As the International Bluegrass Music Association’s annual IBMA Week kicks off in Raleigh, North Carolina, Jerry Douglas is set to be inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame on September 26. This honor comes from fellow bluegrass icon and 2023 honoree Sam Bush.
With nearly five decades in the industry, Douglas, a 30-time IBMA Award recipient, has left an indelible mark on bluegrass, country, and Americana through his innovative dobro playing, production on over 100 albums, and songwriting. Reflecting on the induction, the 67-year-old expressed his surprise and humility, stating, “It’s not something you expect. I was shocked, surprised, and humbled. Being accepted alongside legends like Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs is truly special.”
In addition to his induction, Douglas is nominated for three other IBMA awards, including Album of the Year for co-producing Molly Tuttle’s City of Gold, Resophonic Guitar Player of the Year, and Collaborative Recording of the Year for Authentic Unlimited with his project, Fall in Tennessee.
The induction coincides with the release of his new album, The Set, on September 20, marking Douglas’s first album in seven years. Collaborating with his Jerry Douglas Band—Mike Seal (guitar), Christian Sedelmyer (fiddle), and Daniel Kimbro (bass)—Douglas presents a mix of reimagined classics and new compositions, aiming to capture the essence of their live performances.
The album features songs that span decades, including “From Ankara to Izmir,” originally recorded in 1987. Douglas noted the song’s evolution: “When I cut the song, I envisioned it differently. Over time, it transformed into something new, featuring a combination of electric guitar, bass, dobro, upright bass, and fiddle, while still leaving space for expression.”
Related Topics
LL Cool J Reflects on Hip-Hop Legacy and Future at MTV VMAs
Tyler Childers to Make History as Headliner at 2025 Gulf Coast Jam
17th Academy of Country Music Honors Promises Star-Studded Night
