Merle Watson

“Doc & Merle” reaches deep into the relationship between Doc and Merle Watson. It gives an historical overview of their evolution as musicians and explores the special bond between them and the North Carolina mountains they call home. It presents an entertaining and enlightening look at their lives and their music. During their 21-year career, the Watsons’ mastery of guitar and their unique blend of traditional, bluegrass, country and western, blues and gospel music won them an international audience and numerous awards.

Doc is joined by his son Merle on guitar and banjo and T. Michael Coleman on bass in this concert recorded in 1980. Their performance is a showcase of native folk traditions and a display of distinctive stylistic inventions. Doc and Merle Watson's repertoire encompasses country ballads, bluegrass, gospel, jazz standards, contemporary songs and blues.