Have you heard of the Petersens?

HIP MEETS BLUEGRASS
No one would say that Bluegrass is dead and gone. An example of a modern, highly expert, Bluegrass band is the Petersens. My opinion is that they are a cut above most grass bands because of the rigor of their rehearsals, led by Katie Petersen, the expertise of their arrangements, and the tightness of their music. And they put audiences at ease with their youthful banter. But it is their singing, both together and solo, that makes them so remarkable. Their harmonious voices are very finely framed by the expert instrumentals.

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From left, Emmett Franz, dobro; Karen Petersen, bass, and her
offspring: Ellen Haygood, banjo; Julianne, mandolin;
Matt, guitar; and Katie, fiddle.

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The Petersens are highly skilled in traditional Bluegrass but also are known for their ability to "grass up" Pop and Rock hits, or just about anything they like. Based in Branson, Mo., in the heart of the Ozarks, the band has been serving up its eclectic blend of old-timey and new wave Bluegrass to appreciative audiences for more than a decade.

Among their biggest Youtube sellers are "Country Roads" by John Denver, "Jolene" by Dolly Parton and "Carolina in My Mind" by James Taylor, which mught be regarded as Country or Country Rock numbers.

The Petersens: Country Roads

The Petersens: Jolene

The Petersens: Carolina in My Mind

But then we have "Bohemian Rhapsody," a song by rocker Freddy Mercury.

The Petersens: Bohemian Rhapsody

But if you like old standbys, their "Rocky Top" is one of the best out there.

The Petersens: Rocky Top

And you'll even find old folk music numbers, like "Shenandoah."

The Petersens: Shenandoah

Nor is there a shortage of standard Country fare. "Amarillo by Morning" is just one of many examples.

The Petersens: Amarillo by Morning

Then there is "Tulsa Time," which has served both Country and Rock artists. Here is their fun grassed-up version.

The Petersens: Tulsa Time

The troubadors do not hide their faith, as we hear on one of their gospel videos.

All Glory Be to Christ