If Rock n Roll has a backwoods cousin, it is Lester Ray Sears. A multi-talented singer/songwriter and musician, Sears is devoted to traditional and progressive bluegrass music, and brings to the stage a level of energy that drives an audience to its feet.
Born in Warren, Ohio, Sears lived in Giles County, VA, until 2006. A chance meeting at an impromptu jam session led to a recording deal with an independent label, and Sears found himself packing up and moving to Nashville.
Adept at playing several instruments, Sears is most astounding at guitar, having won several competitions in recent years. He is happiest with his favorite guitar Lucy in his hands.
Descended from a long musical heritage, his father Lester D. Sears, a talented musician in his own right, is a founding member of the Keepin' Time band, which enjoys regional success and radio airplay throughout the Virginia's. Lester Ray played lead guitar and provided lead and tenor vocals for the group before moving to Nashville. His sons, Zachary and Joshua, also play guitar and are continuing the family tradition.
His lively and interactive shows are marked by high energy, humor, intricate harmonies, and just plain good bluegrass music. Combining a rich musical heritage with dynamic style make for a fun and entertaining show that can only be described as explosive.
Every crowd will enjoy the lively performances from this "Appalachian American" who toured with the Michelle Cupit Bluegrass band before forming his Tennessee Border Band.
Lester Ray's original tune, "Virginia" may be heard on Worldwide Bluegrass Radio and is currently under consideration for the new, official state song of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Credits:
- Grand Ole Opry warmup show
- Bluegrass Series at the world famous Ryman Auditorium
- Mountain Stages TV Show appearance
- Bean Blossom Festival 2009
- Wildhorse Saloon
- WSM Radio
