Muleskinner (band)
Muleskinner was a bluegrass supergroup formed in 1973 and active primarily in that year. The band is renowned for its influential live performances and a single self-titled album, "Muleskinner," which is considered a landmark recording in the development of newgrass.
The band's lineup consisted of:
- Clarence White: Guitar, Vocals
- Peter Rowan: Guitar, Vocals
- David Grisman: Mandolin, Vocals
- Bill Keith: Banjo, Pedal Steel Guitar
- John Kahn: Bass
- Richard Greene: Fiddle
Despite their brief existence, Muleskinner's members were already established figures in bluegrass and related genres. Their collaboration brought together diverse musical backgrounds and styles, resulting in a progressive and eclectic sound that pushed the boundaries of traditional bluegrass. The album featured a mix of traditional bluegrass songs, country tunes, and original compositions, showcasing the virtuosity of each member.
The band's name, Muleskinner, reportedly originated from an old blues song and was chosen by the group to reflect their rough-and-tumble, experimental approach to music. Their performances were marked by improvisation and instrumental interplay, solidifying their reputation as a groundbreaking force in bluegrass music. After only a short period, the band members went their separate ways to pursue individual projects, but the legacy of Muleskinner and their album continues to inspire bluegrass and acoustic musicians to this day.