I was born January 6, 1950, in San Gabriel, California. Firstborn son of Ernest Jennings and Betty Jean Ford.

In the years I've been alive I've been I've been a son, a brother, a cowhand, a rhythm guitarist, a dishwasher, a father, a teacher, a student, an actor, a singer, a con artist, a martial artist, a songwriter, an editor, a husband, a liar and a writer. It's fair to say that I was more apt -more successful, perhaps- in some areas than others. I was definitely luckier...there's no other explanation.​

I've been blessed with gifts better bestowed on someone more deserving. I have a life partner I pray never realizes how much better she could have done, and children I pray never forget their promise to let us live with them when they're grown.​

Life is good.... you know?​

So... welcome to the podcast. Take a look around. Make yourself at home. Have a cup of coffee. Call your friends. Screen the reel. Listen to voice over clips. Pore over inane musings on questionable topics. Read glowing book reviews. Scan the credits. Let's have lunch.

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Later...

Since first hitting the scene in the early 1980’s, Alan has made a name for himself as one of the most creative and technically gifted mandolinists in bluegrass and acoustic music. He was an original member of the groundbreaking bands; The New Quicksilver, IIIrd Tyme Out, BlueRidge and for the last eight years the band Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. Alan won the SPBGMA “Mandolin Performer Of The Year” award for 2007, 2009 and 2010. He won the IBMA “Instrumental Album of the Year” in 2001, “Album of the Year” in 2006, “Recorded Event” in 2012 and SPBGMA “Album of the Year” in 2008. His solo project “In The Blue Room” was voted “Top Instrumental Album” by County Record Sales. The 2004 BlueRidge project for which he wrote the title track, was nominated for a Grammy. He was included in the Mel Bay book “Greatest Mandolin Players of the Twentieth Century.” In early 2004 the Gibson Company put into production the Alan Bibey Signature line of mandolins, reaffirming his status as one of the most influential mandolin players in bluegrass and acoustic music history. Some of his most recent accolades include numerous #1 albums and songs, including his writing and performance on the latest Alan Bibey & Grasstowne singles, “Cold Dark Ground” and “This Old Guitar and Me”. His project with Wayne Benson, called the Mandolin Chronicles, was nominated last year for five IBMA awards. Alan currently plays with his band Alan Bibey & Grasstowne, with their CD “Alan Bibey & Grasstowne 4″, yielding three #1’s and all 12 songs from the project charting on Bluegrass Today’s Airplay Chart. Their most recent project with Mountain Fever Records ” Gonna Rise and Shine” impressed with such hits as “Gonna Rise and Shine” and “When Jesus Swings the Wrecking Ball”. Most recently Alan was nominated and took home back-to-back 2019 and 2020 IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year and the 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2024 SPBGMA Mandolin Performer of the Year. His band Alan Bibey & Grasstowne took home the 2020 IBMA Gospel Recording of the Year. Alan is a full-time member of the popular and distinguished bluegrass band, Balsam Range, playing in venues across the United States. They recently released their new album Kinetic Tone, which has yielded multiple #1 songs. When Alan is not on the road, he works on several album projects for various artists, which he produces in his studio, Maggie’s Crib, in Surfside Beach, South Carolina.

John Bryan is one of the premier young voices in bluegrass music, best known as lead vocalist and guitarist for The Grascals. Since joining the award-winning group in 2015, Bryan has helped carry forward the band's signature blend of traditional bluegrass, gospel, and country music while bringing his own distinctive vocal style and stage presence to audiences across the United States and around the world.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Bryan developed a love for bluegrass music at an early age. His roots in the genre run deep through his family heritage. His great-grandfather, Willard Watson, was a first cousin of legendary guitarist and folk music icon Doc Watson. The Watson family tradition of music and storytelling helped shape Bryan's appreciation for authentic Appalachian music and inspired him to pursue a career in bluegrass.

Before joining The Grascals, Bryan built a solid reputation performing with Larry Efaw and The Bluegrass Mountaineers, where he gained valuable touring and recording experience. His strong lead vocals, guitar work, and natural connection with audiences quickly made him one of the most promising young performers in bluegrass music. In April 2015, The Grascals selected Bryan to join the band as lead vocalist and guitarist, marking a significant chapter in both his career and the history of the group.

Since becoming a member of The Grascals, Bryan has performed on some of the most prestigious stages in American music, including the Grand Ole Opry. He has toured extensively throughout North America and contributed to numerous recordings that showcase the band's award-winning harmonies and musicianship. His vocal performances have become a key part of The Grascals' sound, earning praise from fans and critics alike for their sincerity, warmth, and emotional depth.

One of Bryan's most notable vocal performances came on the song "Haggard," a moving ballad that highlighted his ability to deliver heartfelt storytelling through song. His expressive voice and genuine approach to traditional music have made him a favorite among bluegrass audiences and an important contributor to The Grascals' continued success.

Today, John Bryan remains an integral part of The Grascals, helping the band maintain its position as one of the most respected and beloved acts in bluegrass music. Combining deep Appalachian roots, strong family traditions, and a passion for preserving the music he loves, Bryan continues to honor the legacy of bluegrass while introducing it to new generations of listeners.