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Hot Rize

Hot Rize is an progressive bluegrass band formed in 1978 in , by banjoist , mandolinist and fiddler Tim O’Brien, guitarist Charles Sawtelle, and bassist Nick Forster, known for blending traditional with innovative elements like swing, old-time Appalachia, and electric influences while achieving pioneering status in the genre. The band's early years were marked by relentless touring across 47 U.S. states and four continents, appearances on prestigious platforms such as the Grand Ole Opry, , and , and the release of their debut albums on Flying Fish Records in 1982, establishing them as a fresh voice in during the . Their move to Sugar Hill Records in 1985 led to acclaimed works including Traditional Ties (1985), Untold Stories (1987), and the Grammy-nominated Take It Home (1990), the latter capping their initial run as they retired as a full-time act after winning the International Association (IBMA) Entertainer of the Year award—the first recipients of that honor. Following a hiatus, Hot Rize reunited sporadically in the , releasing the live album So Long of a in 2002 shortly after Sawtelle's in from a heart attack, with guitarist joining as his replacement to reform the group that year. The "21st-century Hot Rize" lineup—O’Brien, Wernick, Forster, and —debuted new studio material with When I’m Free in 2014, praised by for its four-star review and highlighting the band's enduring vitality, followed by the live 40th Anniversary Bash in 2018, nominated for IBMA . Hot Rize's influence extends through their role in reshaping , incorporating unique innovations like Wernick's effects pedal and drawing from diverse sources such as and , while maintaining acoustic purity in core performances. They were inducted into the Music Hall of Fame in 2022, headlined the 50th RockyGrass Festival that year, and in 2025, became the first -based band enshrined in the IBMA Hall of Fame on September 18 in , where they performed a reunion set. More recently, in June and September 2025, the band released two previously unreleased tracks from their 2014 sessions, titled "From the Vault," underscoring their ongoing archival contributions to heritage.

Background

Formation

Hot Rize was formed on January 18, 1978, in , by multi-instrumentalist Tim O'Brien on and , player , bassist Charles Sawtelle, and guitarist Mike Scap. The quartet came together through the local scene, with the members having previously connected at the Denver Folklore Center and shared jam sessions that laid the groundwork for their collaboration. Shortly after the band's , Scap departed, prompting Sawtelle to transition from bass to guitar to emphasize duties. Nick Forster then joined on electric bass on May 1, 1978, solidifying the lineup and allowing the group to refine its sound for performances. This adjustment marked an early organizational step, enabling the band to establish a stable quartet configuration focused on tight instrumentation and vocal harmonies. The newly formed ensemble concentrated on traditional material, drawing from standards and originals suited to the genre's acoustic drive. Early rehearsals honed their interplay, leading to the first gigs in venues that January, where they tested their repertoire before local audiences. These initial performances helped cement their quartet format and built momentum within Colorado's vibrant community.

Name Origin

The name "Hot Rize" for the band was derived from "Hot Rize," a proprietary featured in flour products, designed to enable quick-rising biscuits and other baked goods. This ingredient was prominently advertised by bluegrass pioneers and during their sponsorship of the brand on the Grand Ole Opry and radio broadcasts, embedding it in the genre's cultural fabric. Banjoist , a founding member, drew inspiration from the slogan while compiling potential band names and proposed "Hot Rize" to the group shortly after its formation in 1978; the members adopted it immediately without considering alternatives, viewing it as a fitting emblem of innovation within traditional . As part of their branding, Hot Rize performs the "Martha White Theme" song, originally popularized by as the jingle for the "Martha White Biscuit and Cornbread Time" radio show, often incorporating it into live sets to honor the connection. The choice of name intentionally evoked Southern traditions central to and heritage, symbolizing a "rising" new energy in the music despite the band's formation in . granted permission for the use of the name, further solidifying its ties to .

Musical Style

Hot Rize's musical style is rooted in traditional , drawing from the foundational influences of artists like and , while incorporating progressive elements that blend American roots music with folk infusions. The band's sound emphasizes tight vocal harmonies and exceptional instrumental prowess, creating a polished yet energetic presentation that distinguishes their performances. This approach has positioned Hot Rize as innovators within the genre, inspiring progressive movements and even influencing band scene. A key innovation in their style is the incorporation of electric by Nick Forster, which provides a fuller, more modern sonic foundation compared to the standard acoustic upright in traditional ensembles. Complementing this, Tim O'Brien's and leads introduce influences, infusing the music with melodic nuances that evoke heritage and add layers of emotional depth to the arrangements. These elements allow Hot Rize to expand beyond conventional structures, maintaining reverence for tradition while pushing boundaries through inventive instrumentation. The band's original songwriting often explores themes of love, travel, and rural life, capturing poignant stories that resonate with bluegrass audiences. For instance, "Colleen Malone," co-written by O'Brien, tells the tale of a sailor's longing for his homeland and lost love across the sea. This focus on narrative-driven compositions sets Hot Rize apart from purer traditional , as their live sets occasionally incorporate rock and swing elements for added dynamism. Their alter ego performances further highlight influences, providing a contrasting outlet that underscores the band's versatility.

Personnel

Current Members

The current lineup of Hot Rize has remained stable since the band's reformation in 2002, consisting of founding members Tim O'Brien, , and Nick Forster, alongside guitarist . Tim O'Brien serves as the band's primary songwriter, founder, and multi-instrumentalist, playing and while providing lead and harmony vocals. Born in 1954 in , O'Brien has been a driving creative force in Hot Rize since its inception in 1978, contributing to its songwriting and vocal arrangements throughout the band's career. Pete Wernick, known professionally as "Dr. Banjo," plays and contributes vocals, bringing his expertise as a renowned educator and performer to the group. A co-founder since 1978, Wernick's innovative style and instructional work, including bestselling books and videos, have influenced generations of musicians. Nick Forster handles electric bass, harmony vocals, and serves as the band's emcee, managing introductions and stage banter to enhance live performances. Joining as a founder in 1978, Forster's role as the affable host has been integral to Hot Rize's engaging stage presence, complemented by his songwriting abilities. Bryan Sutton joined Hot Rize in 2002 as the guitarist and vocalist, infusing the band with his acclaimed expertise honed through extensive session work in Nashville. Prior to joining, Sutton had built a reputation as a top-tier guitarist, collaborating with artists like and contributing to numerous recordings. This lineup's continuity has supported Hot Rize's ongoing tours and activities into 2025.

Former Members

Hot Rize's former members consist primarily of two individuals who were part of the band's formative lineup in 1978. Mike Scap served as the original guitarist for Hot Rize during its earliest performances in , starting in January 1978. His tenure was brief, lasting only a few months before he departed the group in April 1978, with no specific reason publicly detailed beyond the band's evolving needs. Scap's exit prompted Nick Forster to join on electric bass, allowing original bassist Charles Sawtelle to switch to guitar and enabling the classic configuration to solidify. Charles Sawtelle was a founding member of Hot Rize, initially playing from the band's inception in 1978 before transitioning to and providing occasional vocals following Scap's departure. He remained with the group through its active years and partial reunions, contributing to recordings and live performances until the band's semi-retirement in 1990, with further reunion activity extending to 1998. Sawtelle also handled behind-the-scenes responsibilities, including sound engineering, which earned him a reputation as the band's "Bluegrass Mystery" for his multifaceted support. His tenure ended tragically with his death on March 20, 1999, at age 52, from complications of following a transplant in 1997. Sawtelle's passing marked a pivotal moment, leading to a three-year period of inactivity for the band and influencing its full reformation in 2002 with a new . Beyond Scap and Sawtelle, Hot Rize experienced no other permanent lineup changes among core members during its , though occasional guest musicians appeared on recordings and tours without achieving .

Career

Early Years (1978–1990)

Hot Rize released their self-titled debut album in 1979 on Records, featuring a mix of traditional covers and original songs that showcased the band's tight instrumentation and harmonies. This was followed by their second album, Radio Boogie, in 1981, also issued by , which further highlighted their progressive approach with tracks blending energy and radio-friendly appeal. Throughout the 1980s, the band conducted extensive national tours across 47 U.S. states and into , gradually expanding to international venues in , , and , while upgrading their travel from a 1969 to a 1957 bus in 1980 to accommodate growing demand. They built a strong fanbase through high-profile festival appearances, including multiple performances at the starting in 1983, as well as slots on A Prairie Home Companion and Austin City Limits in 1987. These tours and shows emphasized Hot Rize's reputation for energetic, engaging live performances that incorporated original material alongside bluegrass standards. By the late 1980s, Hot Rize had achieved significant recognition in the bluegrass community for their innovative sound and stage presence. Their 1990 album Take It Home, released on Sugar Hill Records, earned a Grammy nomination for Best Bluegrass Album, with the single "Colleen Malone" becoming a standout hit. That same year, the band received the International Bluegrass Music Association's inaugural Entertainer of the Year award, capping a decade of rising prominence. Despite their success, Hot Rize announced their disbandment in 1990 after a farewell tour, an amicable decision driven primarily by lead singer and mandolinist Tim O'Brien's choice to pursue a solo career in country music with .

Hiatus and Partial Reunions (1990–2002)

Following the release of their critically acclaimed album Take It Home in 1990, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Album, Hot Rize officially disbanded after a 12-year run as a full-time band. The decision was influenced by shifting personal and professional priorities, particularly mandolinist and vocalist Tim O'Brien's signing of a solo contract with to pursue a broader career. The group concluded with an extensive farewell tour, performing over 35 shows that spring, allowing fans a final opportunity to experience their progressive sound. During the hiatus, the members focused on individual endeavors that built on their bluegrass foundations while exploring new directions. O'Brien released his debut RCA solo album Odd Man In in 1991 and continued prolific recording and touring, forming the band the O'Boys and writing hits like Kathy Mattea's "Walk the Way the Wind Blows." Banjoist established instructional bluegrass and jam camps, developing the widely adopted Wernick Method for teaching, and served as IBMA president from 1986 to 2001. Bassist Nick Forster joined O'Brien's early solo projects before launching the nationally syndicated public eTown in 1991, which featured live performances and interviews with musicians across genres. Guitarist Charles Sawtelle toured with , fronted his own group the Whippets, and operated the Rancho de Ville recording studio in , producing albums for various artists. Despite the breakup, Hot Rize maintained a presence through sporadic reunions, performing several dates annually at bluegrass festivals and special events from 1991 to 1998. These appearances included tributes and celebrations that highlighted their enduring influence, such as a 1996 live recording session that captured their chemistry. In 1991, their song "Colleen Malone" from Take It Home received the International Bluegrass Music Association's Song of the Year award, written by Pete Goble and Leroy Drumm, underscoring the band's lasting impact even in absence. The original lineup's final performance occurred in August 1998 at the Targhee Bluegrass Festival. The period took a somber turn with Sawtelle's of in the mid-1990s, culminating in his death on March 20, 1999, at age 52. His passing marked a profound loss for the community and prompted a three-year hiatus in group activities as the remaining members grieved. Memorial efforts, including dedications at festivals and the eventual release of archival live recordings like So Long of a Journey in 2002—drawn from 1996 sessions—helped preserve Hot Rize's name and legacy during this transitional time.

Reformation and Recent Activities (2002–present)

Hot Rize regrouped in 2002 following the death of founding guitarist Charles Sawtelle in 1999, welcoming acclaimed guitarist as his replacement to restore the quartet configuration with Nick Forster on bass and vocals, Tim O'Brien on , , and vocals, and on and vocals. This reformation was marked by the release of the live album So Long of a , recorded during the band's 1996 reunion shows at the Theater and featuring 21 tracks of classic material performed with Sawtelle. The album served as a poignant tribute and catalyst for renewed touring, solidifying the band's commitment to blending progressive with traditional roots. In the years following, Hot Rize embarked on extensive international tours, performing at festivals across Europe, such as Denmark's Festival in 2011, as well as in and , while maintaining a robust schedule of U.S. appearances that included headlining slots at events like and . Their first studio in over two decades, When I'm Free, arrived in 2014, showcasing original compositions from all four members and recorded live at eTown Hall in , in 2013; tracks like "Western Skies" and "Blue Is Fallin'" highlighted their evolved sound with Sutton's precise guitar work. The band continued to headline major bluegrass festivals and made notable media appearances, including a 2010 performance on NPR's Mountain Stage. Celebrating four decades since their formation, Hot Rize released the live album 40th Anniversary Bash in 2018, capturing performances from January shows at the Theater with guest artists , , and Stuart Duncan, encompassing 26 songs drawn from their extensive catalog. The ensemble has sustained its current lineup stability while engaging in ongoing activities, including festival headlining and contributions to preservation efforts. Through 2025, they performed at events like the IBMA World of and were inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, recognizing their enduring influence. In June and September 2025, the band released two previously unreleased tracks from their 2014 sessions, titled "From the Vault."

Alter Ego

Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers

Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers was created in 1980 by the members of Hot Rize as a comedic stage persona parodying the bands of the 1930s and 1940s, particularly drawing inspiration from pioneers like and his Texas Playboys. The alter ego emerged from Hot Rize's occasional performances of early country material by artists such as and , evolving into a fully realized act to add humor and variety to their live shows. The core members adopted exaggerated cowboy attire and fictional personas, transforming their instruments to fit the style: Tim O'Brien as Red Knuckles on guitar and lead vocals, Nick Forster as Wendell Mercantile on "take-off" fringe guitar, as Waldo Otto on , and Charles Sawtelle as on . O'Brien's character, in particular, channeled a smooth baritone for and , while the group incorporated pedal steel and electric elements to evoke the era's sound. Performances featured humorous skits with fictional backstories—such as hailing from the fictional town of in —alongside swing arrangements of and country tunes, band choreography, and self-deprecating comedy that poked fun at the genre's conventions. The emphasized not taking too seriously, with O'Brien noting, "I had always wanted to play that music so I wanted to do the music , but the was about not taking yourself seriously." The persona debuted during Hot Rize concerts, often as a "rival" emerging from the back of their tour bus, providing a midway break that quickly became a fan-favorite segment for its lighthearted contrast to the main set. This integration into Hot Rize's live performances helped solidify the alter ego's role as an entertaining staple, enhancing the band's reputation for innovative stagecraft.

Performances and Legacy

Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers were integrated into Hot Rize's live performances as humorous intermissions during concerts, providing through their routines, while occasionally delivering full sets at major festivals such as the annual RockyGrass Festival in Lyons, Colorado. The alter ego's stage antics were first captured on the 1982 live album Hot Rize Presents Red Knuckles & the Trailblazers / Hot Rize In Concert, recorded at the Left Hand Grange Hall in , on April 9 and 16, which featured both the band's material and the comedic Trailblazers segments, including tracks like " Hambone " and "Wendell's Fly Swatters." These routines persisted through the band's partial reunions after 2002, with Red Knuckles appearing alongside Hot Rize at events like the 2014 RockyGrass Festival. Following Sawtelle's death, guitarist joined Hot Rize and adopted the Red Knuckles persona of Suede, allowing the act to continue in subsequent performances. The inclusion of Red Knuckles significantly enhanced Hot Rize's reputation for blending high-energy with entertainment value, as banjoist noted that the alter ego "helped Hot Rize fly," often drawing audiences who preferred the comedic elements. This approach inspired subsequent acts in bluegrass comedy, such as , whose satirical performances echoed the Trailblazers' style of parodying tropes from the . In the broader legacy of the genre, Red Knuckles added levity to by contrasting its traditional seriousness with playful and vaudeville-inspired humor, a contribution preserved through archival videos, DVDs like Classic Hot Rize with Red Knuckles & the Trailblazers, and ongoing fan discussions in communities as of 2025.

Discography

Studio Albums

Hot Rize's studio discography consists of six albums, reflecting their evolution from progressive pioneers to mature songwriters across decades of activity. Their releases emphasize original material alongside bluegrass traditions, produced primarily on labels specializing in the . The band's self-titled debut album, Hot Rize, was released in 1979 by Flying Fish Records. It introduced their blend of updated bluegrass with a modern sensibility, featuring traditional covers such as "Nellie Kane" and "High on a Mountain" alongside original tracks like "Empty Pocket Blues." In 1981, Hot Rize followed with Radio Boogie, also on Flying Fish Records, which expanded their sound through sleek, stylish arrangements and radio-themed tracks including the title song and "Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow." Hot Rize's 1985 album Traditional Ties, released by Sugar Hill Records, showcased their roots in traditional bluegrass with instrumental tracks and covers like "Blue Ridge Cabin Home," highlighting their instrumental prowess and harmony vocals. The 1987 follow-up Untold Stories, also on Sugar Hill Records, delved deeper into original songwriting with tracks such as "My Life's Partner" and "Lost River," blending heartfelt narratives with progressive elements. The 1990 album Take It Home, issued by Sugar Hill Records, marked a commercial peak and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Bluegrass Album. It included the hit "Colleen Malone," which won the International Bluegrass Music Association's Song of the Year award in 1991. After a long hiatus, Hot Rize reformed and released When I'm Free in 2014 on Ten In Hand Records, their first studio album in 24 years. This post-reunion effort showcased mature songwriting with new original songs by all four members, incorporating guest guitarist and themes of reflection in tracks like "Western Skies" and "You Were on My Mind This Morning." The band's production shifted from smaller independent labels like to more established imprints such as Sugar Hill, with additional archival studio material released in 2025.

Live Albums and Compilations

Hot Rize's live recordings capture the band's dynamic stage presence, showcasing the improvisational flair and audience interaction that defined their performances, often blending traditional with humorous skits from their persona. These releases highlight the energy of live crowds, where the group's tight instrumentation and witty banter created an infectious atmosphere unique to their concerts. The band's first live album, Hot Rize Presents Red Knuckles & The Trailblazers (Flying Fish, 1982), was recorded at the Left Hand Grange Hall in , on April 9 and 16, 1982, featuring a mix of standards and comedic segments from their Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers , emphasizing the playful that energized early audiences. In 1984, Hot Rize released In Concert (Flying Fish Records), a live recording that captured their energetic performances of favorites and originals, including segments with their Red Knuckles & The Trailblazers, demonstrating their versatility on stage. Following a decade-long hiatus, So Long of a Journey: Live at the Boulder Theater (Sugar Hill, 2002) documented a reunion performance at the Boulder Theater in , serving as a poignant after the passing of Charles Sawtelle, with the live setting amplifying the emotional depth and crowd enthusiasm through extended jams and heartfelt renditions. In celebration of their milestone, Hot Rize's 40th Anniversary Bash (Ten in Hand Records, 2018), self-released after a 2018 concert at the Boulder Theater, featured guest appearances by bluegrass luminaries , , and Stuart Duncan, capturing collaborative improvisations and the jubilant crowd response that underscored the band's enduring live appeal. In 2025, Hot Rize released two previously unreleased tracks from their 2014 When I'm Free sessions as "From the Vault": "Mighty Mississippi" (written by Kelly Harrell) and "Brown Eyed Rabbit" (an old-time tune), available digitally and underscoring their ongoing contributions to heritage. While Hot Rize has not issued major retrospective compilations, their tracks appear on various anthologies, contributing to broader collections that highlight the genre's progressive voices without dedicated retrospectives focused solely on the band.

Awards and Recognition

Major Awards

Hot Rize received the International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) first-ever Entertainer of the Year award in 1990, recognizing the band's significant impact on the genre through innovative performances and original songwriting. In 1991, the band's recording of "Colleen Malone," written by Pete Goble and Leroy Drumm from their album Take It Home, earned the IBMA Song of the Year award, highlighting its enduring popularity and craftsmanship within circles. The album Take It Home (1990) also garnered a Grammy Award nomination for Best Bluegrass Album at the in 1991, underscoring the band's commercial and artistic peak during their initial active period. In 2022, Hot Rize was inducted into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. Prior to their 1990 disbandment, Hot Rize accumulated several IBMA nominations in categories such as and Instrumental Performance, reflecting consistent industry acclaim. Following their 2002 reformation, the band received additional nominations, though they secured no further major wins during this era.

Hall of Fame Induction

In September 2025, Hot Rize was inducted into the International Hall of Fame during the 36th Annual IBMA Awards, held on September 18 at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium in . The induction recognized the band's pioneering role in progressive bluegrass, characterized by their innovative blending of traditional elements with original songwriting, diverse influences, and a dynamic stage presence that included vintage attire and alter-ego performances. Their longevity—spanning over four decades since forming in 1978—and profound influence on the genre, inspiring subsequent generations of musicians, were central to the selection criteria established by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA). The ceremony featured a live performance by the current lineup of Hot Rize, including Tim O'Brien, Nick Forster, , and , marking a reunion for the occasion and highlighting their enduring musical chemistry. Tributes during the event honored founding member Charles Sawtelle, who passed away in 1999, acknowledging his distinctive guitar work and contributions to the band's foundational sound. This moment underscored the band's complete history, from their original to their . The induction stands as the culmination of Hot Rize's 47-year career and marks the first time the full has received this honor from the IBMA, affirming their status as trailblazers in American roots music. It also represents the first enshrinement of a Colorado-based in the IBMA Hall of Fame.

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