Chattanooga, Tennessee, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Sierra Ferrell will not perform at the IBMA Bluegrass Live festival in Chattanooga, Tennessee, due to a scheduling conflict with Farm Aid. The duo Gillian Welch and David Rawlings will replace her for the headlining slot. The festival, taking place for the first time in Chattanooga, promises an exciting lineup including The Wood Brothers and Sierra Hull. Organizers have announced road closures in certain areas to facilitate smooth access for festival-goers.
Chattanooga Hosts IBMA Bluegrass Live Festival Without Sierra Ferrell
Sierra Ferrell will not be performing at the International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) Bluegrass Live festival in Chattanooga, Tennessee, scheduled for September 19-20. She made the announcement about her withdrawal via social media, citing a scheduling conflict with Farm Aid. Farm Aid, a music festival established in 1985 by Willie Nelson and Neil Young to support family farming, will take place on the same day as the IBMA festival.
Ferrell was initially set to take the stage at 8:45 p.m. on Saturday at the IBMA Bluegrass Live festival. In her statement, she expressed disappointment and highlighted the difficult decision she faced. Despite her absence, fans of bluegrass and folk music can look forward to the duo of Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, who will fill her headlining slot. This American folk duo has recently garnered significant acclaim, winning the Best Folk Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards.
Replacement Artists
Welch and Rawlings are no strangers to the spotlight, having received a nomination for Best Original Song at the 2019 Academy Awards for their piece “When A Cowboy Trades His Spurs for Wings.” In addition to their impressive accolades, Welch has a notable history with film soundtracks, including contributions to the acclaimed film O Brother, Where Art Thou?, alongside other prominent artists like Alison Krauss and Emmylou Harris.
The duo’s recent performances include the 2024 Newport Folk Festival in Rhode Island and a show at Chattanooga’s Walker Theater on April 2. Their replacement for Ferrell is expected to be a highlight for festival attendees.
About the Festival
The IBMA Bluegrass Live festival will be hosted in Chattanooga for the first time, making this event particularly significant for the city and the bluegrass music community. In addition to the performances by Welch and Rawlings, other artists scheduled to perform include The Wood Brothers, Sierra Hull, and Alison Brown.
The festival is a cornerstone of the larger IBMA World of Bluegrass event, which comprises a business conference and various showcases that promote the genre. Music fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with live performances and various community activities.
In preparation for the festival, organizers have announced that there will be road closures in parts of Georgia Avenue, M.L. King Boulevard, and Market Street. These closures are part of the logistical arrangements to ensure smooth access for festival-goers.
Conclusion
The IBMA Bluegrass Live festival is anticipated to draw crowds of music enthusiasts due to its lineup and the vibrant atmospheres of both bluegrass and folk music. With Ferrell’s notable absence and the addition of Welch and Rawlings, the festival is poised to provide an unforgettable experience for attendees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Sierra Ferrell not performing at the IBMA Bluegrass Live festival?
Sierra Ferrell has withdrawn from her performance at the IBMA Bluegrass Live festival due to a scheduling conflict with Farm Aid, a music festival that takes place on the same day.
Who will be replacing Sierra Ferrell at the festival?
Gillian Welch and David Rawlings will be taking over Ferrell’s headlining slot at the festival.
What is the IBMA Bluegrass Live festival?
The IBMA Bluegrass Live festival is an event celebrating bluegrass music, featuring performances from various artists, a business conference, and showcases. This year’s festival will be hosted in Chattanooga for the first time.
What are the road closures associated with the festival?
There will be road closures in parts of Georgia Avenue, M.L. King Boulevard, and Market Street to accommodate the festival and ensure smooth access for attendees.
Key Features of the IBMA Bluegrass Live Festival
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| Dates | September 19-20 |
| Replacement Artists | Gillian Welch and David Rawlings |
| Other Performers | The Wood Brothers, Sierra Hull, Alison Brown |
| Notable Event Aspects | First time in Chattanooga, road closures, part of IBMA World of Bluegrass |
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Sierra Ferrell Drops Out
- American Songwriter: Sierra Ferrell Bows Out
- The Bluegrass Situation: IBMA World of Bluegrass Arrives
- Google Search: IBMA Bluegrass Live Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bluegrass Music
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
