The roots of this concert started back in 1972 when the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band released an album that reconnected divided US generations at odds due to the perpetuating Vietnam War, hippie counter-culture and a troubling Richard Nixon presidential term. Recorded with country sensibilities, Will the Circle be Unbroken was created to bring together two generations of musicians and a divided nation and to plant the seeds of hope for a better future. It became one of the most influential albums in the history of music. Featuring collaborations with country legends such as Roy Acuff, Doc Watson and Mother Maybelle Carter, the album was pioneered by celebrated banjoist Earl Scruggs. Across 38 songs, the release captured the imagination of rock music lovers, penetrating the mainstream whilst staying true to its raw, unadulterated aesthetic.

50 years later and the album is more pertinent than ever, it’s message of unity holding strong in a world that remains largely divided. Now, some of Australia’s most prominent musicians unite in a concert performance which channels Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s recording approach on Will the Circle be Unbroken. This live show is an audible bridge stretching across generations, cultures, sexes, politics, race, and musical genre. The circle of artists represents sitting around a campfire, being at the family dinner table, or at a traditional music session. Sharing stories, thoughts and memories handed down from generation to generation.

Following the success of the original concert performed during lockdown in 2020 to a large and enthusiastic online audience and streamed live from St Kilda’s beloved Memo Music Hall the show toured and saw a swag of Victoria’s regional towns across March.nPerformed live and in the round each show features special guest musicians and singers in never-before heard trios and duets. Wellknown artists will be partnered with lesser known yet exceptionally talented younger artists and backed by the Row Jerry Crow band which is made up from some of this state’s most iconic musicians.