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.
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.
Brooke Foster: The Moontouched Outlaw Reviving Appalachia
Discover how artist Brooke Foster and Wayfarer Appalachia are spearheading a cultural revival on Tazewell Main Street with her unique dark Americana sound.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Food Network Icons Take Over Appalachia: Mountain Flavors Music & Food Fest Lights Up Rural Virginia
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey, right in the heart of the mountains. On November 21, 2025, Wayfarer Appalachia is proud to present The Celebrity Chef Table, a premier dining experience in Tazewell, Virginia. This exclusive event brings together some of the most renowned names from Food Network and Bar Rescue for an evening of exceptional cuisine, fine wine, and captivating music. It's more than a meal; it's a celebration of Appalachian soul and elevated cuisine.
Vendor Table Sign-up for the Mountain Flavors Music & Food Fest Nov. 22, 2025
Calling All Appalachian Food Artisans & Craft Vendors! Are you ready to showcase your extraordinary talents at a one-of-a-kind event? Wayfarer Appalachia invites YOU to be part of the Mountain Flavors Festival & Music on Saturday, November 22, 2025, right on historic Main Street in Tazewell, Virginia! This isn't just any festival—it's a celebration of Appalachian culture, featuring Food Network Celebrity Chefs, live music, and the best of our region's artisans.
The Prince of Darkness Descends on Tazewell, Virginia
Something wicked this way comes to historic Main Street in Tazewell, Virginia! This isn't your average Halloween party. On October 30th, Wayfarer Appalachia is transforming into the ultimate haunted headquarters for a Halloween Bash of epic proportions.
A Historic Night with Charlie McCoy: October 17, 2025, at Wayfarer Appalachia
Don’t miss it! This October, history and music collide on Historic Main Street in Tazewell, Virginia, as Wayfarer Appalachia proudly welcomes the legendary Charlie McCoy to its stage. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, chef-crafted meals, and a deep connection to Appalachian culture, Wayfarer Appalachia the perfect restaurant venue to host this iconic event.
Get Ready for an Unforgettable October Live Music Event at Wayfarer Appalachia!
This October, we're turning up the volume with an unforgettable event. On Saturday, October 11th, 2025, we're thrilled to welcome The Woods, a Nashville-based band that's redefining folk-rock with their harmonious blend of 1970s influences and modern country hooks. Known for their soulful melodies, intricate harmonies, and electrifying performances, The Woods are sure to light up the night and leave you wanting more.
Experience the Magic of Live Music, Food, & Community at The Wayfarer
This October, we're turning up the volume with an unforgettable event. On Saturday, October 11th, 2025, we're thrilled to welcome The Woods, a Nashville-based band that's redefining folk-rock with their harmonious blend of 1970s influences and modern country hooks. Known for their soulful melodies, intricate harmonies, and electrifying performances, The Woods are sure to light up the night and leave you wanting more.
October Nights, Appalachian Lights: Live Music at The Wayfarer
Get ready, Tazewell! This October, we're bringing the heart of Nashville's music scene right to Historic Main Street. The Wayfarer Appalachia is cranking up the volume and setting the stage for an unforgettable month of live music, dancing, and good times. We've curated a lineup that blends legendary talent with rising stars, all to give you a taste of Nashville in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Mark your calendars, because you won't want to miss a single beat!
A Tiny Reminder of Trust
Some mornings, the world hands you a lesson before the day even begins. Today, mine came wrapped in fur no bigger than my palm.
Down the road, where the blacktop bends and the guardrail hums with the memory of passing cars, we found kittens. Their mama never came back—likely caught by the cruel swiftness of a road that doesn’t wait for anyone. We gathered them up, small voices crying out, and carried them to safety. One by one, little homes opened their doors, even one waiting quietly for my granddaughter, though she hasn’t heard the surprise yet.
Velvet Leaves & New Beginnings at Wayfarer
Buttercups and baby calves have aged into golden ember leaves. The brisk evening air drifts in, and the grass begins to lose its brilliance — and that’s alright. Appalachia knows that shedding is part of becoming, that endings are nothing more than new beginnings whispered in the wind.
Last weekend, we swung open our doors for the Grand Opening. Flowers rested on the tables, a humble nod to beauty, even though — in true Murphy’s Law fashion — our Nashville artist’s vehicle broke down, and the show had to be canceled. Still, the room filled with warmth, laughter, and good company. It was less about the stage and more about the spirit, and that’s worth remebering.