Special to IFN
Ahead of The Keel Duo’s sold-out performance in the Old Jail Listening Room at the Iredell Arts Council on Thursday, April 30, Larry Keel shared his thoughts on the creative process, where he sees bluegrass heading, and how performing in intimate listening rooms shapes his approach and connection with an audience.
An award-winning, innovative flatpicking guitarist and singer/songwriter hailing from Appalachia, Keel has a distinctive sound rooted in mountain culture blending bluegrass and classic country with a rock edge and elements of improvisational jazz.
Joined by Winston Mitchell, The Keel Duo showcases masterful musicianship, drawing from Keel’s original catalog alongside imaginative interpretations of standout covers.
Q: Many fans love your live performances because they feel spontaneous. What do you enjoy most about performing live versus recording?
KEEL: Playing live allows you to have fewer boundaries, unlike the studio where you stick to a structured production plan for the sake of time and cost. For me, playing live is complete freedom to create on the spot.
Q: What artists or albums had the biggest influence on your playing early on?
KEEL: The artists that influenced me the most from the start were Doc Watson and Merle Watson (their first live album), Tony Rice’s Manzanita, and the White Brothers Live in Sweden 1973.
Q: When you’re writing a new song, does it usually start with lyrics, melody, or something you discover on the guitar?
KEEL: It can start with all of the above, or a combination. Sometimes I keep a melody around for a while before finding the right lyrics, and vice versa. Inspiration can come out of the blue, or I’ll focus on the process until the sound matches the mood of the lyrics.
Q: You’ve played everywhere from festivals to intimate listening rooms. How does performing in smaller venues like the Iredell Arts Council change the experience?
KEEL: I love small venues because the sound is tighter and more authentic to what instruments and voices are supposed to sound like. It makes for a more engaged audience. The vibes are warmer. Who doesn’t like warm vibes?
Q: Do you approach a show differently when the audience is close and listening deeply versus a large outdoor festival crowd?
KEEL: Absolutely. Festivals are big celebrations with a party atmosphere, so the music and performance match that energy. Listening rooms are more subdued, and I enjoy creating an intense, elevated connection with the audience. We really get to know each other. It’s like taking everyone on a ride together.
Q: Bluegrass has evolved a lot over the years. Where do you see the genre heading in the next decade?
KEEL: I see Billy Strings taking the genre to far-off galaxies! He’s helping make bluegrass incredibly popular, and I couldn’t be happier about how he’s expanding the audience.
Q: Younger musicians are blending bluegrass with other genres. What excites you about the new generation?
KEEL: I love seeing what inspires younger players. Their passion is incredible, and it’s exciting to watch their love for all kinds of music carry forward.
Q: If you could collaborate with any musician—past or present—who would it be?
KEEL: That list changes daily, but today I’d say Henry Mancini and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
Q: What’s one song you never get tired of playing live?
KEEL: “Restless Pilgrim,” which I co-wrote with Tim O’Brien. I could play that one over and over.
Q: What does it mean to perform in communities like Statesville that support local arts organizations?
KEEL: It’s an honor to be invited into a community that values the arts. Supporting and funding the arts is vital for everyone’s health and well-being.
Q: What advice would you give to young musicians just starting out?
KEEL: Practice. Write your own music. Develop your own style, and don’t let challenges stop you if you truly burn to play.
Thursday’s show is sold out. You can tune in to the IAC Live Stream on https://www.youtube.com/@iredellartscouncil