“I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart,” goes the Sunday School song. After reading this month’s features and cover story, I cannot help but be reminded of that song in regard to the joy that accompanies the passion and commitment that our featured artists radiate in their lives—onstage and offstage.

Vassar Clements—if you’ve never met him, you’ll feel like you know him (and instantly like him) after reading Caroline Wright’s in-depth interview. A new writer in our stable, Timothy Jones, captures Richard Bailey’s infectious optimism perfectly, and Chris Stuart presents to us singer/songwriter, fiddler Mark Simos—a songwriter whose persistence paid off.

As we’ve heard, life isn’t always easy for artists in the bluegrass industry. Many have never collected a regular paycheck, and as you can imagine, medical benefits and pension plans don’t come with the job of delighting bluegrassers worldwide.

If you like what you read, let us know, but especially, let the artists know. Our articles come tagged with information on how to find the artist and/or his projects. Get involved with an artist’s fan club. It’s much like sending $25 to a politician or political party; all of a sudden you’ll get all the news and you’ll feel like you’re a part of the cycle.

And believe me, after watching the Grammy awards in February—with the occasional lapses into depravity—am I ever glad to be part of the bluegrass cycle … way to go Ricky, Alison and company. Thanks for the passion, commitment, and common sense.

Barbara Baird