Knee High Records is thrilled to unveil a milestone release in bluegrass history—a limited-edition 7” 45 RPM vinyl from the prodigious Wyatt Ellis and legendary Peter Rowan. Featuring two standout tracks, "Winds of Rowan County" and "Memories of You", this release bridges generations while honoring the bluegrass tradition.
The A-side, "Winds of Rowan County," is a collaborative masterpiece co-written by Wyatt Ellis and Peter Rowan. This original composition captures the heart and soul of bluegrass, blending Wyatt's intricate mandolin melodies with Peter's lyrical storytelling. Inspired by their unforgettable performance together at Rowan's Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame induction, the song pays homage to Bill Monroe while charting a vibrant path for the genre’s future.
On the B-side, the duo breathes new life into Bill Monroe's timeless classic, "Memories of You." With reverence and skill, Ellis and Rowan’s rendition showcases Wyatt’s mastery of Monroe-style mandolin playing and Peter’s heartfelt vocals, supported by an all-star lineup of bluegrass musicians.
This limited first pressing celebrates the intergenerational spirit that defines bluegrass and is a nod to the early recordings of the genre. Available now for pre-order, this collectible release is destined to become a cherished artifact for bluegrass fans worldwide.
Preorder your copy today: https://orcd.co/windsofrowancounty
The winds of bluegrass have carried the music of Bill Monroe across generations, and now they blow through a historic collaboration between bluegrass wunderkind Wyatt Ellis and living legend Peter Rowan. Together, they’ve created a release that’s not just music—it’s a story.
It all began with a 13-year-old Wyatt Ellis performing alongside Peter Rowan at Rowan’s induction into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. On that fateful night, as tales of Monroe’s legacy swirled through their conversations, an unexpected gust of wind lifted Rowan’s hat and guitar case, as if the Father of Bluegrass himself was blessing the moment. That magical connection inspired "Winds of Rowan County," an original composition that evolved over years and continents. Peter, while traveling in Ireland, added lyrics to Wyatt’s melody, transforming it into a transcendent piece that bridges the old and the new.
Paired with their rendition of Monroe’s "Memories of You," this release is more than just two songs on vinyl—it’s a dialogue between tradition and innovation. Wyatt’s mandolin virtuosity channels the soul of Monroe’s style, while Peter’s timeless voice anchors the music in bluegrass history. Backed by an exceptional lineup, including twin fiddles, harmony mandolin, and a powerhouse rhythm section, these tracks pulse with the raw energy and emotional depth that define bluegrass.
This release stands as a testament to bluegrass's enduring power, connecting generations and keeping the music alive through the hands and hearts of musicians like Wyatt Ellis and Peter Rowan. Whether you're a lifelong fan of bluegrass or new to its charms, this limited-edition 7” vinyl is a celebration of everything that makes the genre great—a past steeped in tradition and a future that’s brighter than ever.
Don’t miss this historic release. Preorder now: https://orcd.co/windsofrowancounty
