West End String Band

Bluegrass and Americana with a modern twist.

Bio

Charlie McDaniel, guitar and vocals, moved to the upstate area about 20 years ago from Rutherford County, N.C. He was a member of the popular regional band, Hickory Flat, for over 20 years. Hickory Flat brought home a top 10 finish in the SPGMA bluegrass band world championship, followed by several busy years on the festival circuit. Charlie‘s soulful singing puts the blues in bluegrass.

After moving to Greenville, Charlie met his wife-to-be Kathy. She grew up singing American traditional songs with her father in Northwestern Ohio. As a percussionist in high school, she won the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award for piano. Kathy became a die-hard bluegrass fan the first time she attended the popular Pickin’ at Pickens Bluegrass Festival. After going to bluegrass jams and shows with Charlie, she decided to take up a new instrument. Her great timing and true love for the music made the bass a great choice for her. She anchors the group now with her rock solid timing and harmony vocals.

We met Brian VanAntwerp at Albino Skunk Fest. He soon became a vital band member providing sizzling fiddle playing, harmonies, and memorable lead vocals. Brian is a transplant to the Upstate from Michigan. He majored in music at Michigan State. He is a music teacher and gives fiddle lessons to students of all ages.

Charlie McDaniel

MEET CHARLIE

Kathy McDaniel

MEET KATHY

Brian VanAntwerp

MEET BRIAN

The Word on the Street

Best of 2015

We are proud to have been recognized as a GigMasters best of 2015 band for our consistently high reviews throughout the year. Take a look at what a few people had to say and let us know if you think we’d be right for your event by sending us a message below.

“When my daughter, the bride, and I arrived at Cade’s Cove Methodist Church for her historically-themed Appalachian wedding, we could hear this band playing the most beautiful soft bluegrass I have ever heard. They played a huge role in making this a magical day for us. Thank you West End String Band.”
“We hired WESB to play the “tailgate” for our Super Bowl party, and we could not be happier with how things turned out. From the first quote they sent, they were always prompt and thorough with their communications, and willing to do whatever they could to accommodate our requests. We had people of all ages, some bluegrass lovers, others that would likely tell you they either didn’t like bluegrass, or they had never listened to it, and yet all were in agreement that the band was a hit! I would definitely hire these guys again, and we’ve already discussed the possibility of them playing next year’s party.”
“We loved this group! We hosted a community event and they fit right in. They were very flexible in doing what we needed. We were so busy setting up and getting things ready ourselves that it was nice that they just did what they needed to do. They seemed to take care of themselves. We were in an open field and their sound carried great. We loved their style and people seemed to really enjoy the music!”

Booking

Interested in booking the band? 

Please complete the form or call.

864.270.5427

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