Biography
Magnolia Drive is a bluegrass band originating from Mississippi, formed in 2010 by Don Robinson (banjo/guitar), Steve Nowell (bass), Mike Nowell (guitar), and Cory Burton (mandolin). The group’s name pays homage to their Mississippi roots, and they have become known for their blend of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, characterized by smooth vocal harmonies and a hard-driving instrumental style. Each member brings decades of musical experience, and together they have over a century of combined expertise in bluegrass performance.
Since their inception, Magnolia Drive has built a reputation for energetic live shows and a repertoire that mixes original compositions with fresh interpretations of bluegrass standards. Their sophomore album, 'Timeless,' released on Mountain Fever Records, showcases both their songwriting abilities and their knack for breathing new life into classics by artists like Buck Owens and Dottie Rambo. The band has remained consistent in its lineup since its formation, contributing to their strong musical chemistry and enduring appeal within the Southeast and Midwest bluegrass scenes.
Magnolia Drive’s legacy is rooted in their ability to straddle the line between honoring bluegrass traditions and embracing contemporary influences. Their music resonates with both long-time bluegrass enthusiasts and newer audiences, and their dedication to their craft has made them a respected fixture in the regional bluegrass community.
Fun Facts
- The band’s name, Magnolia Drive, is a tribute to their home state of Mississippi, known as the Magnolia State.
- Magnolia Drive’s lineup has remained unchanged since their formation in 2010, a rarity in the bluegrass genre.
- Their album 'Timeless' features both original songs and creative covers of bluegrass and country classics.
- Members have over 100 years of combined bluegrass experience, contributing to their polished sound.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Gulf Coast bluegrass community - Members, especially Don Robinson, have long-standing ties and have drawn inspiration from the Gulf Coast’s bluegrass scene. (Local performances, early band projects) [Pre-2010 and ongoing]
Key Collaborators
- Glen Harrell (Volume Five) - Guest fiddle player on select tracks (Timeless (album)) [2020s]
- Tim Hathorn - Guest dobro player on select tracks (Timeless (album)) [2020s]
Artists Influenced
- Regional bluegrass musicians in Mississippi and the Southeast - Magnolia Drive’s blend of traditional and contemporary bluegrass has inspired emerging local acts. (Live performances, festival appearances) [2010s–present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Timeless | 2022-01-28 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Lonely Side of Goodbye (Timeless)
- I Won't Call You (I Won't Call You)
- The Girl on Sugar Pie Lane (Timeless)
- Going Back in Time (Timeless)
- Your Tender Love and Care (Timeless)
- I Will Always Be with You (Timeless)
- I Won't Call You (Timeless)
- It's Me Again Lord (Timeless)
- Mountain Rose (Timeless)
- Sweet Country Girl (Timeless)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
MAGNOLIA DRIVE has been played 2 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 2, 2025 | 11:34 | GOING BACK IN TIMEfrom TIMELESS | Old Time Country and Bluegrassw/ Hazel The Delta Rambler | |
| Sep 28, 2025 | 10:10 | ITS ME AGAIN LORDfrom TIMELESS | Old Time Country and Bluegrassw/ Hazel The Delta Rambler |