Malpass Brothers

It was a transformative moment when two young brothers discovered their grandfather Malpass’ LPs collection. Drawn like a moth to a flame, the classic-filled treasure trove from the golden era of traditional country music gathered little dust in the Malpass household. Chris and Taylor studied the brother-harmony bluegrass duos of Jim & Jesse, the Louvin and Wilburn Brothers and bathed in the sounds of Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, Charlie Pride, Merle Haggard. It was musical Manna to the boys-there was nothing in the marketplace that fed The Malpass Brothers’ soul more than the music of this bygone era–and they would stay true to it.

Best known as modern-day troubadours who carry the torch for traditional country music, The Malpass Brothers began singing and playing together professionally at a very young age. Alongside their dad, Chris Malpass Sr., the siblings performed at churches all over the southeast, but they continued to hone their traditional sound by working alongside and amongst the legends.

While Taylor finished high school, Chris began honing his songwriting skills, and working with steel guitar legend, Don Helms-an original member of the Drifting Cowboys. A few years later, he found himself on Merle Haggard’s bus, singing and performing for Merle on his 000 Martin guitar. Taylor, in the meantime, played lead guitar in a local band, and upon graduation, flew out to Redding, CA to join his brother as the opening act for Merle Haggard for the next seven years.

In 2011, Haggard produced The Malpass Brothers’ debut album, Memory That Bad on Hag Records. The title track hit number 6 on the CMT Pure Country 12-Pack Countdown and remained in the charts for several weeks. In 2015, Bluegrass Hall of Fame inductee, Doyle Lawson picked up the gauntlet and produced their sophomore, self-titled album on Organic Records, and in 2017, The Malpass Brothers released a live album, Live at the Paramount, which captures the energy and excitement of their highly polished, traditional country music show.

However, their latest album, Lonely Street (released May 12, 2023), also produced by Lawson alongside Ben Isaacs (of the multi-Dove Award-winning/Grammy nominated group The Isaacs), may be their strongest project to date. Notably engineered by the late Grammy Award-winning Mark Capps under the oversight of Executive Producer and longstanding Malpass manager, Dan Mann, this 12-song album teems with brand new, traditional country music that sounds as if it were curated from a 50s/60s/70s smoke-filled, classic country jukebox. Chris Malpass wrote the majority of the songs, including co-writes by Dickey Lee, Shawn Camp, Conrad Fisher and Taylor Dunn. The album also includes cover nods like “Love Slips Away” by Merle Haggard and Jeannie Seely’s “We Don’t.”

The Malpass Brothers are anything but a “throwback” cover group. Instead, they are the “real deal.” Mentored and credentialed by the biggest legends of bluegrass and country music, the brother duo continues to deliver new, yet traditional music in modern times (complete with pearl-snap shirts, Manuel/Nudie suits, over-shaped cowboy hats, and pompadour coiffure, just to drive home the point). Their firm “traditionalism” has captured the attention of the industry and traditional country fans, leading to their worldwide notoriety.

The Malpass Brothers made their Grand Ole Opry debut in December of 2018 and have been asked to return to the hallowed circle well over a dozen times since. The brother duo has headlined international tours and festivals in Ireland, Switzerland, and in Scotland, and been featured on multiple national television shows including TBN’s “The Huckabee Show” and RFD’s “Country’s Family Reunion” and “Larry’s Country Diner”-and compilation of performances from the later was released earlier this year.

Wilson Fairchild

Wilson Fairchild is more than just a country music duo-they’re a force of nature in the industry, known for their unique blend of traditional and contemporary sounds. Comprising cousins Wil and Langdon Reid, Wilson Fairchild brings a rich heritage of music and storytelling to every song they create. With deep roots in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, their music is a reflection of their upbringing, life experiences, and unwavering love for country music.

Wil Reid

Wil Reid, one-half of Wilson Fairchild, grew up surrounded by music. As the son of Harold Reid of The Statler Brothers, Wil was immersed in the world of country music from an early age. His passion for performing has made him a standout talent in the industry. Wil’s smooth vocals and guitar skills are at the heart of Wilson Fairchild’s sound. His natural sense of humor is one that connects with fans from all walks of life is a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft.

Langdon Reid

Langdon Reid, the other half of Wilson Fairchild, shares the same musical lineage as his cousin Wil. As the son of Don Reid, of The Statler Brothers, Langdon was destined to follow in the footsteps of his legendary family. His ear for harmony walks perfectly with their music and gives it that famous “blood family” uniqueness. Langdon’s influence from so many guitar players shows through with his acoustic guitar touches. His stage presence and energy ensure that every performance is memorable and engaging for the audience.