Mark Bumgarner‘s musical style has been described as true Southern Americana, and yet it is so much more. His influences span the American landscape and beyond. From the traditional sounds of the Appalachian mountains to the west coast country and folk rock sounds of the 60’s & 70’s, from Tin Pan Alley, to the rockin’ blues of the deep south, all have left their lasting impressions and are ever present in his work both as a performer and a songwriter. His songs shows a sensibility in touch with both the past and present. Lyrically and musically he draws from classic themes and tones that resonate as much today as ever before.

In addition to his performing and songwriting, he is also the annual host of the MerleFest Band Competition and co-host of MerleFest’s Chris Austin Songwriting Contest.