The 2026 Tony Rice Memorial Day MusicFest is in full swing. Held at the historic Blue Grass Park at Camp Springs near Reidsville, NC, the first day saw a light drizzle, but the show went on.
The festival opened with prayer by the Rev. Jason Simmons, and the singing of the national anthem by MC, Cindy Baucom. Three bands performed: Hot Wax & the Splinters, The Burnett Sisters, and the Darren Nicholson Band. Each group paid homage to the late Tony Rice in some fashion.
Hot Wax & the Splinters featured RIce-style breaks from their guitarists Tommy Chandler and Truett Wagner. 14-year-old Wagner also sported a cap with “58957,” the serial number of Rice’s legendary 1935 D-28 Martin guitar. They also had a special guest, IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year, Greg Blake, join them for a Rice-infused number…