Bluegrass with a Twist

Some performers are so talented, audiences clamor to see them again. That’s the case with Nathan McEuen and Scott Gates, two musicians who will return to Carlsbad City Library on Oct. 23 at 2 p.m. 

“I'm looking forward to performing at the library again,” said McEuen. “I've been on the road for the past 14 months, played more than 200 shows, visited over 35 different states and have recorded a new album since I last played at the Carlsbad Library in July 2010.”

McEuen was raised in the bluegrass and folk scene by his Grammy-winning father, John McEuen of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. A guitar-playing singer-songwriter, some of Nathan’s performance highlights include American Idol Season 8 Finale (with The Steve Martin Band), The Tonight Show with Jay Leno (w/ Hanna-McEuen) and The Grand Ole Opry.

“For this show I will be joined by Scott Gates on mandolin and vocals,” continues McEuen. “We haven't played a show together for more than nine months, so I imagine the performance will have an explosive new energy to it.”

Gates began learning piano at the age of three and mandolin at the age of seven. By 13, Gates had established his own bluegrass bands, winning several mandolin and band competitions. At age 16 and 17, Gates played with Steve Martin on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, performed with The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and recorded with musical legend Kenny Loggins.

“This time we'll play some of the classics with new stories and songs,” McEuen said. “And hopefully we'll have a 'sold out' show again! I think the price is just right: Free! Hope to see you there.”

The concert will be held at the Carlsbad City Library’s , 1775 Dove Lane. Free tickets will be issued beginning at 1 p.m. at the auditorium the day of the concert. For more information, visit carlsbadlibrary.org.