Commissions
Bobby Osborne
Bobby Osborne was a true legend in the world of country and bluegrass music, whose remarkable journey spanned over six decades until his passing. His unforgettable high voice echoed from the stages of the Grand Ole Opry to festivals across the country, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. From his early inspiration drawn from Ernest Tubb to his life-changing encounter with Earl Scruggs, Bobby's musical evolution was a testament to his passion and talent.
Starting his career as a guitarist, Bobby's path shifted when he discovered the captivating sound of the five-string banjo played by Scruggs. His unique vocal range and instrumental prowess led him to explore new avenues in music, blending elements of country and bluegrass seamlessly. Teaming up with Larry Richardson, Bobby embarked on a journey with The Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, marking the beginning of his illustrious recording career.
Throughout the years, Bobby's collaborations and accomplishments were nothing short of extraordinary. From writing timeless classics like "Rocky Top" to sharing the stage with legends like Bill Monroe and Lester Flatt, his contributions to the genre were unparalleled. Inducted into multiple halls of fame and earning prestigious awards, Bobby's legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Album Fund
FreshGrass Album Fund provides funding to artists and bands who are in the creative process of making an album. The funding is in the form of a grant so artists maintain all ownership of their work. These grants offered by FreshGrass Foundation are to inspire and facilitate artist’s and band’s creative freedom. The funds can be used for both production and distribution of new roots songs, music or tracks. Listed below are albums that have been produced with the help of the FreshGrass Album Fund. Click on the names below to learn more about each project and to support the artist.
Producer/banjoist/Compass co-founder Alison Brown discovered Bobby’s desire to produce another solo album this when she was subbing for JD Crowe on a Masters of Bluegrass show several years ago and recognized a kindred spirit in Bobby. Subsequently, while working with him in the studio on Peter Rowan’s album, The Old School, Bobby happened to comment that he doubted he’d have the chance to make another solo album. It was clear that Bobby still had something important to say musically so Alison connected Bobby with FreshGrass’ Album Fund grant, they embarked on the sessions for this project.
“Original” features an all star cast of pickers and singers collaborating with Bobby on an eclectic set of songs. Relative newcomers Sierra Hull and Trey Hensley team up with stalwarts Stuart Duncan and Todd Phillips on grass’d up versions of Paint Your Wagon’s “They Call The Wind Maria” and the Bee Gees’ “I’ve Gotta Get a Message to You.” The never before recorded Darrell Scott song “Kentucky Morning,” featuring Rob Ickes, gives a nod to Bobby’s heritage while the cover of “Make the World Go Away” with the lush twin fiddles of Buddy Spicher and Matt Combs evokes Music Row circa 1962. Bobby’s touring band the Rocky Top X-Press, with sons Wynn, Robby and Bobby Osborne Jr., deliver an updated version of the Osborne Brothers’ classic “Pathway of Teardrops” while Ronnie and Robbie McCoury, together with Josh Williams and Missy Raines, collaborate on a version of the obscure Mel Tillis song “Goodbye Wheeling.” Additional performers include Sam Bush, Vince Gill, Jim Lauderdale, Del McCoury, Darrell Scott, David Mayfield, Molly Tuttle, Bryan McDowell, and Kenny Malone.
