Jerry Butler and John Wade have both played bluegrass and country music since an early age. Coming from different bands to join together as members of Lorraine Jordan and Carolina Road, they have traveled over a year playing together. Their musical ideas are automatic between them which is evident in their music and the new band The Blu-J's. Fans will enjoy a fresh sound and entertaining show this band brings to the stage.

The Blu-J’s are based in Knoxville, TN with members from North Carolina and Virginia. They have been entertaining audiences since their first appearance in March of 2009. Jerry Butler, John Wade, Jason Fraley, Jim Fraley and Tim Goins bring both traditional bluegrass songs and some familiar classic country songs done in their own style.

Band leader Jerry Butler hails from Knoxville, TN and has played music since the age of 12. Miss Dixie Hall says “Without a doubt, Jerry is among the most unacknowledged singers in the business. He has lent his flawless and peerless vocals to Pine Mountain Railroad and held the featured lead singer position in Carolina Road.” 

John Wade began his career on the country circuit with Billy”Crash”Craddock as band leader and Bassist. He is a solid bass player and plays with feeling, adding subtle touches to the arrangements that compliment the songs and singers. John’s resume includes Summer Wages, The Grass Cats,The Lonesome River Band, James King, and Carolina Road.

Father and son Jim and Jason Fraley bring dynamic picking and singing to the stage. Hailing from North Carolina, Jim is perhaps one of the best banjo players out there; his playing style can be straight forward or very creative depending on the song. Jason is energetic and sings high lead or tenor. His mandolin style fits the Blu-J’s like a glove. Jim and Jason have been longtime members of Deeper Shade of Blue and are excited to continue playing together with the Blu-J’s. Fans will find out that even off stage they are very personable and interesting to talk to.

Rounding out the group is Tim Goins from Floyd, VA.. Tim plays dobro and banjo and brings vocal talents as well as some songs from his personal repertoire. His sense of humor and always unexpected funny business adds an element of entertainment that very few can match. Tim has appeared with the Easter Brothers, The Misty Valley Boys and Mark Templeton and Pocket Change.

The Blu-J’s stage show will be fun and entertaining for the fans. “We just want the folks in attendance to have a good time with us, laugh, cry, sing along, whatever they’re feeling at the time. When we’re done we want them to be able to say ‘now that was fun’.”

"Haulin' Grass" By Jerry Butler and John Wade is the Best Truckers Album since the King Of Bluegrass recorded "Widow Maker" back in 1963.
Charlie Hall
WCYO 100.7fm

Listening to Jerry Butler and John Wades tunes on Reverbnation from up comin' "Haulin Grass" what a hoot, these tunes take me back to my days when I was workin' over night Country Radio on 50 thousand watts WOW am at the crossroads of America in the 80's and had truckers calling me and request for some of the tunes they are doing on this album. what memories and what a great Album this is for sure. Great job guys!

Billy Dunbar

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