DWIGHT MCCALL

Biography

Dwight McCall is a bluegrass mandolin player and vocalist from Cincinnati, Ohio, though he was born in Maryland. He began his musical journey as a teenager, learning to play mandolin and developing a passion for traditional bluegrass music. His professional career commenced with Vernon McIntyre's Appalachian Grass, marking the beginning of his journey through the bluegrass circuit. Between 1992 and 1995, McCall led his own band, establishing himself as a bandleader and musician in the bluegrass community.

McCall is perhaps best known for his decade-long tenure as a member of J.D. Crowe & The New South, where he played mandolin and sang tenor vocals. During this period, he appeared on multiple recordings with the band, contributing to their sound and helping to maintain the group's reputation as one of bluegrass music's most respected ensembles. His work with J.D. Crowe & The New South solidified his standing within the bluegrass community and showcased his versatility as both an instrumentalist and vocalist.

Beyond his work with established bands, McCall has pursued a solo career, recording material that reflects his deep roots in traditional bluegrass music. His solo efforts have garnered attention from bluegrass enthusiasts, and he has signed with Rural Rhythm Records, a label known for supporting quality bluegrass artists. McCall's career demonstrates a commitment to preserving and advancing the bluegrass tradition through both collaborative and independent musical endeavors.

Fun Facts

  • McCall was born in Maryland but established his primary residence and career base in Cincinnati, Ohio
  • He began his musical career as a teenager, demonstrating early dedication to the mandolin
  • McCall led his own band during the early 1990s (1992-1995) before joining J.D. Crowe & The New South
  • His collaboration with J.D. Crowe & The New South lasted approximately a decade, making him a significant contributor to one of bluegrass music's most respected ensembles

Associated Acts

  • J.D. Crowe and the New South
  • American Drive - mandolin

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

  • Vernon McIntyre - Early career bandleader who gave McCall his first professional opportunity (Appalachian Grass) [Early career]

Key Collaborators

  • J.D. Crowe - Bandleader of The New South; McCall served as mandolin player and tenor vocalist (J.D. Crowe & The New South recordings) [Approximately 10 years]

Discography

Albums

Title Release Date Type
Never Say Never Again 2007-04-24 Album
Never Say Never Again 2007-05-22 Album
Never Say Never Again 2007-04-24 Album
Never Say Never Again 2007-04-24 Album
Never Say Never Again 2007-04-24 Album
Lonesome Highway 2004-06-11 Album

Top Tracks

  1. West Virginia Ground (Never Say Never Again)
  2. You Love Me Today (Lonesome Highway)
  3. Will You Meet Me Over There (Lonesome Highway)
  4. Down Another Lonesome Highway (Lonesome Highway)
  5. Poor Old Man (Never Say Never Again)
  6. Blue Eyed Boston Boy (Bluegrass Father & Son)
  7. Lost River (Never Say Never Again)
  8. Little Bessie (Never Say Never Again)
  9. The Legend of the Johnson Boys (Lonesome Highway)
  10. Never Say Never Again (Never Say Never Again)

Heard on WWOZ

DWIGHT MCCALL has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.

DateTimeTitleShowSpotify
Nov 23, 202511:45GOODBY MY FRIENDfrom NEVER SAY NEVER AGAINOld Time Country and Bluegrassw/ Hazel The Delta Rambler