In the summer of 1966, JOHN McEUEN became a founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Multi-instrumentalist McEuen has since ventured into varied musical genres, taking his music and other talents to different formats including television specials, film scoring, unusual award winning CDs and concert production, while keeping up an active road schedule.

With the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band he made over 24 albums, including the platinum-selling Will The Circle Be Unbroken, instigated by John and conceived by the band's manager/producer (his brother) Bill McEuen in 1971. Indisputably "one of the most important recordings ever come out of Nashville" (Rolling Stone) "...Circle..." is recognized as a country music milestone and an integral part of American music history.

John is known to a wide spectrum of music fans from working with a diverse group of people throughout his career. Name somebody in show business and he's probably got a story to tell about them! He has performed or recorded with Dolly Parton, Andy Williams, The Doors, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, Bill Wyman, Johnny Cash, Little River Band, Marshall Tucker Band, Air Supply, Doobie Brothers, Bill Cosby, Steve Martin, Robert Schimmel, Stephen Wright, The Smothers Brothers, Rowan & Martin, Little Richard, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Steve Martin, Robin Williams, Clint Eastwood, Robert Schimmel, Dizzy Gillespie, The Band, Crystal Gayle, Tammy Wynette, Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, Lester Flatt, Leon Russell, Vassar Clements, Sissy Spacek, Tommy Lee Jones, Albert Gore, Hootie and the Blowfish, Phish... the list goes on.

A broad spectrum of music Americana -- with a bit of "the old country" music thrown in for good measure -- has made John McEuen known as America's instrumental poet. His musical impressions from over 30 years of worldwide travels are brought to the stage with performing expertise that sets him apart from others, and focuses on his acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, and fiddle.

We were also fortunate to have Matt Cartonis accompany John McEuen for the house concert here. Matt is an extremely talented musician and sometime member of Bryndle, whose brand new album is simply beautiful.

Our January 19, 2002 house concert with John McEuen was another sold out performance... and very crowded, too. John was as entertaining as ever. Lots of Dirt Band memories and wonderful stories to share. A good time was had by all! John McEuen and Matt Cartsonis performed a variety of songs from sources, including old Nitty Gritty Dirt Band classics as well as material from John's solo career and from a wide spectrum of Americana music. Whether it was banjo, guitar, mandolin or violin, John McEuen's virtuosity was simply amazing to behold. The added charm and talent of the amazing Matt Cartsonis only added to the evening's delight.

This concert was generously sponsored by: The Conejo Valley Chapter of Leads Club. Leads Club is a 25 year old international networking organization for business owners. For information, Conejo Valley Leads Club. Thanks to everyone in the chapter for your support of our house concert series!