Wyatt Ellis, born in East Tennessee near the Great Smoky Mountains, first discovered his passion for the mandolin after hearing Bobby Osborne’s iconic solo in the bluegrass anthem “Rocky Top.” Despite a busy schedule filled with school classes and homework, Boy Scouts, and sports, Ellis developed a deep interest in the instrument. At just 10 years old, he persuaded his father to buy him a used mandolin, marking the beginning of his musical career.
He quickly started taking weekly lessons in his hometown, immersing himself in bluegrass jams. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person activities, including lessons and jam sessions. Despite these challenges, Ellis found new opportunities to connect with prominent bluegrass musicians online. This period of isolation became a time of accelerated learning, fueled by virtual lessons from his musical heroes.
In the fall of 2020, Ellis was selected for a Tennessee Folklife apprenticeship with Sierra Hull, a renowned mandolin player and former prodigy. Their lessons focused on refining essential techniques, from timing to tone. Ellis describes the experience as transformative, helping him grasp the finer details of mandolin playing. Since then, he has practiced daily, developing his skill.
Ellis’ dedication to the mandolin became his primary pastime. His rapid improvement caught the attention of top bluegrass musicians, who became mentors and collaborators. By 2022, Ellis was performing alongside bluegrass legends like Peter Rowan, Molly Tuttle, and Marty Stuart. In February 2023, at just 13 years old, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut with Dailey & Vincent and soon found himself jamming backstage with icons like Vince Gill and Mark O’Connor. His growing recognition culminated in performances with Billy Strings at Doc Watson’s 100th birthday celebration and an invitation to play at Merlefest’s Mandolin Mania.
Ellis’ 2024 debut album, Happy Valley, presents twelve original instrumental tunes he composed at the age of twelve. Named after a local holler in East Tennessee, the album features Ellis playing alongside twelve of his mandolin heroes, backed by an all-star bluegrass band. Produced by Justin Moses, the album was recorded at a homestead once owned by Grand Ole Opry legend Grandpa Jones, adding an extra layer of historical significance. The collection elegantly combines traditional bluegrass with Ellis’ innovative touch.
Tracks like “Grassy Cove” and “Two Rivers Waltz” highlight Ellis’ versatility, while tunes such as “Maryville” and “Little Pigeon” draw inspiration from his East Tennessee upbringing. McLaughlin.
Ellis won the 2024 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Instrumentalist of the Year Momentum Award.
Discography:
Happy Valley (2024)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.