Roadlore

Welcome to the home of the RoadLore blog, the living journal of Wayfarer Appalachia. Here on Main Street in Tazewell, the mountains lean close and the air carries both music and memory. Within our walls, two spirits guide the journey — the Velvet Room, soft and hushed, where storytellers and songwriters bare their truths, and the Crossroads Stage, bold and untamed, where bands and wanderers thunder through.

Each plate from our kitchen is steeped in local flavor, each cocktail stirred with a touch of kinship, and every note of music a reminder that the road is alive with story. This space is where we share those tales — the triumphs, the stumbles, the gatherings by firelight — all the wayfarings and whispers that make us who we are. Walk with us, and together we’ll keep the flame burning bright in the heart of Appalachia.

Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Southern Legacy, with Don Rigsby Experience Authentic Bluegrass at Wayfarer Appalachia.

Are you ready for an unforgettable night of authentic Appalachian music? On Friday, February 6, 2026, Wayfarer Appalachia is proud to host Southern Legacy featuring the legendary Don Rigsby. This exceptional live performance will take place in the intimate and rustic setting of our own Crossroads Saloon, offering a genuine taste of mountain culture and masterful bluegrass musicianship.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Fly Me to the Moon: A Sinatra Valentine in Appalachia

Valentine's Day calls for grand gestures, but it's often the unique celebrations that linger in our memories for years to come. This year, step away from the ordinary and join us for a night where romance feels truly alive—where the spark of old Hollywood meets Appalachian warmth. Far from your "typical" dinner date, we're inviting you into an evening of timeless sophistication, mountain magic, and musical nostalgia.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Thomas Taylor Brings Conway Twitty to Life at Wayfarer Appalachia

Are you ready for an evening of pure country nostalgia? Wayfarer Appalachia is thrilled to announce an exceptional live performance that will time travel you back to the golden age of country music.

On Saturday, February 21, 2026, join us for "Red Necking Love Making Night," an unforgettable event featuring the incredible Thomas Taylor and his tribute to the legendary Conway Twitty.

A heartfelt journey through the music that defined a generation.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

EmiSunshine Live at Wayfarer Appalachia!

EmiSunshine is not your average performer. She is a powerhouse of talent, a seasoned vocalist, and a gifted songwriter who has been commanding stages for years. Her journey is nothing short of remarkable. By the age of 20, she had already released 10 albums, each showcasing her evolving artistry and deep connection to her musical roots.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

House Sessions: An Evening with Sean Blackwell

Tommy Cox, a proud Tazewell County native, has been a staple in the blues music scene since the early 1990s. Starting his career with the blues trio Tommy C and The Blue Hounds, Cox quickly made a name for himself with his authentic sound and masterful guitar skills. Over the years, he has toured across the Southeastern U.S., captivating audiences with his electric and acoustic blues performances.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

More Than Music

The name says it all. "On The House Sessions" are free live music events. There's no cover charge, no ticket price—just an open invitation to experience the incredible artistry our region has to offer. But why do we do it? The answer is simple: we believe in the power of music to connect people and the importance of providing a stage for our local storytellers.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

The Moran Tripp Band: Southern Rock on Fire

Get ready for an electrifying night of music. The Moran Tripp Band, one of Maryland's most exciting up-and-coming rock acts, is bringing its signature sound to the stage for a performance you won't want to miss. This is your chance to see a band on the rise, fresh off a series of significant successes that have set the music scene buzzing.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Blues, Burgers & Booze: A Night to Remember at Wayfarer Appalachia

Tommy Cox, a proud Tazewell County native, has been a staple in the blues music scene since the early 1990s. Starting his career with the blues trio Tommy C and The Blue Hounds, Cox quickly made a name for himself with his authentic sound and masterful guitar skills. Over the years, he has toured across the Southeastern U.S., captivating audiences with his electric and acoustic blues performances.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

An Unforgettable Night of Jazz in the Velvet Room

Get ready for a truly special evening at Wayfarer Appalachia. We are thrilled to host an incredible night of live jazz, bringing together two of Virginia's most celebrated musicians for a performance you won't want to miss. Prepare yourselves to be captivated by the exceptional talents of guitarist Vince Lewis and harmonica player Bob McGraw, all within the intimate and stylish setting of our Velvet Room.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Live Music on Main

Back by popular demand, the wonderfully talented Brooke Foster returns to our stage. Her previous performances left audiences wanting more, and we are excited to welcome her back. Brooke's powerful vocals and engaging stage presence make every show a special occasion. She has a unique ability to connect with listeners, sharing stories and emotions through her music.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

An Evening with Parker Diffie at the Velvet Room

When your father is a country music legend, the path you walk is a unique one. Parker Diffie, the eldest son of the iconic Joe Diffie, knows this well. Growing up surrounded by the sounds that defined '90s country, Parker felt the immense weight and privilege of his father's legacy. Following Joe Diffie's passing in 2020, Parker took on the responsibility of honoring his father's memory while also forging his own artistic identity.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Chris Turner Live at Wayfarer Appalachia

Wayfarer Appalachia is proud to present a free live music event, the incredible Chris Turner for a live performance in the intimate setting of our Velvet Room. Get ready for an evening where soulful melodies and Appalachian charm combine to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Meet Billy Droze: Bluegrass's Next Big Thing with a Nashville Twist 

Billy Droze was born in 1986 in Lafayette, Louisiana, the 10th of 12 kids in a musical family. While some kids daydream about becoming astronauts, Billy knew early on he was destined for a life in music. His father, Bob Droze—a seasoned country, gospel, and bluegrass musician—was his first influence, and by the ripe old age of four, Billy was already sharing the stage with his dad. Whether it was church events, honky-tonks, or bluegrass festivals, young Billy soaked in every note, every lyric, every cheer from the crowd. 

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Haints, Hollers, and the Blue Above the Porch

Now, I ain’t sayin’ my recent injury had anything to do with ghosts — though if it did, I figure they were just tryin’ to get my attention. (That’s a tale for another time.) But as I sat there with my coffee cooling and my knee aching, my eyes wandered up to that ceiling above me a soft, weathered shade of blue. It wasn’t just pretty. It was intentional. And right then, that color whispered its story to me.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Echoes in the Mountains: The Soul of Appalachian Music Heritage

The story of American music is incomplete without the haunting melodies and heartfelt stories born in the Appalachian Mountains. Long before Nashville became Music City, the hollers and hills of Southwest Virginia and its neighboring regions were alive with a sound all their own. This music, a rich tapestry woven from the threads of Scottish ballads, Irish fiddles, and African rhythms, tells the story of a people—their struggles, their faith, and their enduring spirit. It’s a heritage we celebrate every time an artist steps onto the stage at Wayfarer Appalachia.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Live Music in Tazewell: Alabaster Boxer at Wayfarer Appalachia

A fantastic evening of live music, food, and community is coming to Historic Main Street, Tazewell. Wayfarer Appalachia is thrilled to host Alabaster Boxer live on the Crossroads Stage. On Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM, for an experience that blends soulful sounds with southern hospitality. Get ready for a night that captures the true spirit of Appalachia.

Read More
Donna Sue Roberts Donna Sue Roberts

Whiskey Blind Live at Wayfarer Appalachia  Free Show

Led by the talented David Hurley on lead vocals and guitar, Whiskey Blind has spent over two decades perfecting their craft and captivating audiences. Their music is a masterful blend of southern rock grit, soulful melodies, and authentic songwriting, drawing inspiration from icons like Chris Stapleton and Blackfoot. These amazing artist are known for their high-energy performances and deep connection with their fans, Whiskey Blind doesn't just play music—they create an experience.

Read More