Danny Roberts’ “Lawson Sizemore”: A Masterful Mandolin Tribute to Bluegrass Legends
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
After the candid reflections on a musician’s life in “Life on the Road,” mandolin virtuoso Danny Roberts returns with a poignant instrumental, “Lawson Sizemore,” a heartfelt homage to two of his most significant mandolin influences, Doyle Lawson and Herschel Sizemore. Released through Mountain Home Music Company, this track is a testament to Roberts’ deep understanding and appreciation of bluegrass tradition, showcasing his own mastery while honoring the legacies of these iconic figures.
A Musical Tribute Rooted in Personal Connection
“While I was putting together songs for this session,” Roberts recalls, “I knew that I wanted to salute two of my favorite mandolin players – Doyle Lawson and Herschel Sizemore. Both of these men not only had an impact on me musically, but personally as well, and I wanted to pay tribute to them by writing a song that would show their influence on my playing — and ‘Lawson Sizemore’ is it.” This personal connection resonates throughout the track, transforming it from a mere instrumental into a deeply felt tribute.
“Lawson Sizemore”: A Study in Bluegrass Ingenuity
The composition of “Lawson Sizemore” is a masterclass in bluegrass instrumental form. The tune elegantly captures the essence of Lawson’s and Sizemore’s styles, contrasting a deceptively simple chord progression in its first part with a surprising and delightful twist in the second. This interplay reveals Roberts’ profound understanding of each master’s approach, not only to mandolin playing but also to the art of tune writing.
The track unfolds with Roberts’ initial statement, followed by the seasoned Tony Wray, who delivers both banjo and guitar renditions of the tune’s arpeggiated melodies. Wray’s contributions add depth and texture to the piece, highlighting the versatility of the tune’s structure. Roberts’ long-time friend and Grascals co-founder, Jimmy Mattingly, then steps in with his signature sweet and incisive fiddle playing, adding a layer of soulful expression. Roberts concludes the track with a final pass, bringing the tribute full circle.
“I really enjoyed writing this tune,” says Roberts, “and I hope I did two of my mandolin heroes justice with ‘Lawson Sizemore’!” The sincerity in his words is palpable, and the track stands as a testament to his success in honoring these bluegrass giants.
Danny Roberts: A Legacy of Bluegrass Excellence
Danny Roberts’ career is a testament to his dedication to bluegrass music. Born and raised in Leitchfield, Kentucky, he was a founding member of New Tradition, a prominent bluegrass gospel group that significantly impacted the genre in the 1990s. This group served as a “school of bluegrass” for many musicians who went on to work with leading artists in the field.
His contributions extend beyond performance. Roberts spent time at Gibson Musical Instruments, eventually leading its Mandolin Division and Nashville Plant and Repair, and later establishing his own repair service, Just Off The Bench. While at Gibson, he co-founded The Grascals, a multi-award-winning bluegrass sextet that has achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Roberts continues to serve as the group’s mandolin player and senior member.
His solo work, including his Mountain Home Music Company debut, “Nighthawk,” further demonstrates his versatility and artistry. “Lawson Sizemore” adds another significant chapter to his impressive career, showcasing his ability to blend tradition with innovation.
Mountain Home Music Company: A Pillar of Bluegrass
Mountain Home Music Company, a division of Crossroads Label Group, plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting bluegrass music. Representing elite artists such as Sister Sadie, Lonesome River Band, and The Grascals, the label is a cornerstone of the genre. Established in 1993, Crossroads has become a market leader in bluegrass, Americana, and Christian music, providing a platform for artists to share their music with a global audience.
“Lawson Sizemore”: A Timeless Tribute
Danny Roberts’ “Lawson Sizemore” is more than just a new instrumental; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring influence of Doyle Lawson and Herschel Sizemore. Through his masterful mandolin playing and thoughtful composition, Roberts honors their legacies while adding his own unique voice to the rich tapestry of bluegrass music. This track is a must-listen for any fan of the genre, a testament to the power of tradition and the enduring impact of musical mentorship.