These are excerpts from the article. For the full article, please pick up a copy of the print edition.

The second thing you are likely to notice about Richard Bailey when he goes onstage is the smile. Every few minutes his face lights up with a broad grin, punctuating his stage presence with infectious joy. Sometimes, turning to a band member finishing a challenging break, he breaks out in sheer, unrestrained laughter. He acts like someone who can’t contain his delight. Not that he tries.

While his enjoyment is obvious, even more evident—the first thing you notice—is his artful, subtle mastery of his music. After all, he’s played banjo professionally for more than 25 years, mostly in Nashville, which has honed his proficiency and given him an easy assurance.

Read more by Subscribing!