This page is for Suzanne. Who I love with all of my heart and always will.
Born in the Clinch Mountains near Saltville, Virginia, J. W. has been greatly influenced by the music of that area, especially by the Clinch Mt. Boys, the Carter Family, and the Dillard’s. J. W. credits Earl Scruggs as his biggest influence on the banjo. This ICMA featured artist and member of the ACM and the IBMA is accomplished on the banjo and guitar and also plays dobro, mountain dulcimer, upright and electric Bass, Fiddle, and autoharp. J. W. describes himself as being self-taught and credits his Grandfather as a major influence. In a recent interview, J. W. said, He (his Grandfather) played claw hammer banjo and Carter style guitar, and I learned watching him. I had no formal lessons. I learned from the pickers who came by the house and watched everything they did. My Pop paw (Robert Chapman), Ted Barrett Woodrow Cooper, would play and I was there, like glue, learning.
JW played as a sideman for different groups over the years. JW also worked as a session player in many Nashville studios, including the Grand Ole Opry and Nashville Now. JW cut 3 earlier projects .The first album "Tradewinds" in 1978, which included members of the Old Dominion Barn Dance players.that, included many traditional Bluegrass songs. A second project in 1980 called "Southern By the Grace of God" a Southern Rock album, and "Highways, Heartbreaks and Honky Tonks" in 1999. There last CD Mayberry Revisited "A Tribute to the Darlin's" in2005,has been a received well by Mayberry fans as well as Bluegrass Listeners J. W. Carpenter and Rt. 107 continue to play in this traditional bluegrass style keeping the music of that area alive. The last CD called "Songs of Life" is a Cd of life as he seen it. The project is a blend of Traditional and Modern Bluegrass.
JW Carpenter is a country phenomenon. Whether he's melting an electric guitar on Hank's Tunes, strumming a slow melodic ballad on a flat top, or making a banjo sing like a choir, He puts country in country.” There is a Time" is a tune that has always been beautiful and meaningful. JW, the heir apparent to the banjo kingdom, makes it unforgettable. "Bruce Hodges The Night Ride WBRF 98.1 Galax VA
