James McDowell (3)

American Bluegrass Artist. ​Born in Henderson County, North Carolina, . His grandfather James 'Coot' McDowell, played for the "Southern Mountaineers" and the "Green River Boys" and has been a large influence on his music. Homeschooled and began guitar lessons at age 13 and banjo lessons at age 14, from Ken Schoewe. At age 15, James was invited to play with the "Old Time Pickers" by Sam Cox. Also played banjo for the "Mully Holler Gang". Placed 2nd in the RenoFest banjo competition and 6th in the guitar competition.