These days it’s really hard to find a place where you can go and always expect to see quality, traditional bluegrass music. In Suwanee, Georgia the Everett’s Picking Barn has been doing a consistently great job since March of 1970. At that time, Roger, Randall and Leroy Everett along with Jimmy Ross and Dallas Burrel set out to open a family style traditional bluegrass show. In the words of Randall Everett: "If you like traditional bluegrass, this is the place." Charging no admission, the Everett’s have managed to survive on their consistent family environment and the quality of the music heard. Shows take place every Saturday night rain or shine year round.

One of the most unique features of the Everett’s Picking Barn is the caliber of music they have to offer. Not only do they present the finest in local talent, but some of the biggest names in the business have played there (IIIrd Tyme Out, Jim & Jessie, The Country Gentlemen, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Randall Hylton, Lost and Found, JD Crowe and The New South, Larry Stevenson, The Stevens Sister)

The music takes place inside a barn-style building filled with church pews. These pews are filled with excited bluegrass fans who come expecting quality entertainment every Saturday night. Randall and Roger Everett have a house band that can easily keep up with the finest in the business. The personnel includes Randall Everett – guitar, Roger Everett – fiddle, Don Norman – banjo, Jeff Deaton – Mandolin, and Bobby Autry – acoustic bass. This band plays good straight traditional bluegrass featuring the great lead voice of Randall Everett. His favorite band was Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs and their influence is apparent.

The "Barn" has a very unique feature. Not only can you enjoy a great stage show but you can also go inside the Everett’s house and participate in some of the best festival-style jamming in the Atlanta area. During these sessions, new bands are sometimes formed and good musical friendships are plentiful.

Bluegrass music can thank Everett’s Picking Barn and other such establishments for keeping the music alive and well for the past 30 years. The Everetts have consistently presented Bluegrass music in the same way all year round. Some things never change and for that we are truly grateful!

Reprinted from "The SEBA Breakdown" July 1989