KGNU & Marqee Magazine present
HOT RIZE
w/ special guests Red Knuckles & the Trailblazers Hot Rize has marked 32 years in bluegrass, keeping its legend growing by delivering first-class music and entertainment as only it can. The band rose to prominence in the early 80's, appearing frequently on such national broadcasts as "A Prairie Home Companion", “Austin City Limits”, and on The Nashville Network. Their stage show gained renown, featuring their soulful and distinctive bluegrass combined with their wacky but musically deft "alter-ego" country swing band, Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers. The group performed in almost every state, as well as Europe, Japan, and Australia.
The traditional-yet-progressive foursome started in January, 1978, based in Colorado and naming itself after the secret ingredient of Martha White “self-rising” flour, the product Flatt & Scruggs promoted in the 50s and 60s. With national touring and multiple #1 bluegrass radio hits Hot Rize became a premier attraction and stylistic trend-setter. In 1990, the band was feted as Entertainer of the Year by IBMA at its first annual Awards Show. Throughout the 1990s, the group continued to perform occasionally for a loyal and growing fan base.
Following the untimely passing of original member Charles Sawtelle in 1999, the group reorganized in 2002 with Nashville studio ace/multiple Grammy-winner Bryan Sutton on guitar, and has continued to play selected shows each year, delivering its signature sound to a new generation of followers. Hot Rize has remained a top attraction in bluegrass, well into its fourth decade. In 2009, the band was selected to co-host the 20th annual IBMA Awards Show. The year 2010 will see increased activity, including major festivals and new studio recordings.
