‘Crooked Road Music Heritage Trail’ highlights Southwest Virginia’s legacy

Odyssey Fields
·2 min read
  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.

MARION, Va. (WFXR) — Governor Glenn Youngkin is celebrating 2024 as the year of country music. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Crooked Road Music Heritage Trail. The celebration honors the rich music that is embedded in Southwest Virginia with special concerts and events at major venues, throughout the year.

The trail winds through 300 miles of scenic terrain, and iconic views, and showcases the region’s rich musical heritage. While following the historic Route 58, it connects 10 major venues that feature bluegrass and old-time music. Now, the music trail serves 19 counties and four cities across the region, and one is snuggled in the Town of Marion.

Award-winning singer Josh Turner to perform at Dr Pepper Park in May

On March 2, the melodies of bluegrass music will fill the Lincoln Theatre to commemorate the anniversary of the “Song of the Mountains” concert series. Holding onto tradition, the award-winning series features bluegrass, old-time, and Americana music.

Executive Coordinator and musician, Tim White says what prompted the start of the show is that they wanted to highlight the music that was born in the region.

“Country music and especially bluegrass keeps God, country, and family in the foreground, and I think people long for that now,” shared White. “It tells a story and can be fun and uplifting.”

He says over the last two decades, the show has reached millions of people. The “Song of the Mountains” series features new bands, as well as old-time favorites. During each performance, about four to six artists will take the stage including T. Graham Brown, Doc Watson, and Dr. Ralph Stanley.

However, the celebration doesn’t stop there. While along the trail, music enthusiasts, and members of the community can learn the legacy of Southwest Virginia’s musical heritage.

Boones Mill artist Colby T. Helms releases debut album ‘Tales of Misfortune’

“We celebrate the rich music history of the Commonwealth with incredible anniversaries and milestones in 2024. The music festivals, venues, and historic music sites across Virginia attract visitors from around the world,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We expect Southwest Virginia, with all its anniversaries, to be a major draw for travelers this year.”

If you are looking to explore the musical trail, here are a few other venues along the Crooked Road Music Heritage Trail:

For more information about Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.