You probably wont ever see this but my 2yr old daughter is obsessed with this video. She literally asks for Billy Strings with the "bodytaur" (guitar) to sit and watch you sing. And a 2yr old to sit still for a while is a miracle 😂 i think she may br your biggest fan! Keep it up, you are doing amazing!

This young man ought to be on the radio 24 hours a day

I sang “Down in the Valley” at the beginning of my wedding ceremony after hearing this, such a perfect song that was able to relate to everyone in the audience and get everyone on the same page and establish the reverence for the ceremony. Thank you Billy for keeping it alive.

Doc Watson has been my favorite guitarist since I first heard of him. Glad to see Billy doing this. Pay close attention to Docs blues playing with his son and then his grandson, that's the best of Doc. I got to hand it to Billy Strings for telling us these stories and the history of Ole Doc and especially for playing his music, may Doc rest in peace. I don't know if these two ever got together, ever met, I'm sure Doc would've wanted to and would've toured with Billy. Imagine that?

In india we have no clue about Blue grass - Man this is real music - Very humble musicians - no hype - no special sets or costumes

What a group /band of country/bluegrass musicians. WOW, could listen to them repeatedly.

Billy Strings is the only Blue grass singer who fills the stadiums

Billy and the band are something else . His understanding of the history of flat pickin guitar is impressive.Billys dad taught him well . Run with it son .

Who else watches this all the time?

I saw Doc in Canada years ago. You could just feel the love he put into his music. He did Shady Grove by himself. I thought it was because it was too personal. As they were walking off stage, someone near me shoulted, "We Love you, Doc!" and he stopped for a second and seem to look right at the guy and smiled.

Billy makes Doc's songs sound even better. Billy is my favorite musician by a landslide. Real freakin music!!!! unbelievable talent. I have been trying to learn and i cant imagine getting to his level.

The dear lord in heaven blessed us when this was all born by Billy and his associates. Ever entertaining ❤ !

Walk on boy. This take should be preserved for historical record. Tip of hat to that mando player too.

Young Billy is a walking encyclopedia of priceless Bluegrass songs. I'm beyond impressed. The young man is not only a seasoned musician but an excellent vocalist. He's a national treasure for sure. Great band all around.

Our newest iconic true All-American musician. A beam of light in darkness. Thank- you for continuing where Doc Watson left off. He's looking down with a big proud smile. Thank you for sharing your gift and making the world a better place!

Shout out to the bass player learning songs on the fly❤

I was born in Asheville North Carolina. Dad got us out of there , for a better life in the triangle.I have always loved bluegrass and Doc is a home boy who was humble and loving man . Im so proud of Billy for keeping his music 🎶 Alive for a whole new generation to appreciate and enjoy.Yes Billy is an old soul, me too. So much talent in one body. Keep educating the people what great music 🎵 is .

I have been listening to Billy and the boys since the middle of the pandemic when I tripped over billy, dust in a baggie, on KZfaq. Hook on him worse than I ever was on meth. I would play these longer concerts and be there stuck to the TV. Watching the videos. Couldn't just listen. Had to watch. I went on the Billy quest.. I think the first one I heard was in the tacky house with the gut in the t-shirt and flip flops.. wow what a baby he was. I proceeded to listen to all of it. Lost a man that didn't get it. Course he didn't get much. Good riddance. Thanks Billy. I had a daughter that would be your age, y'all were two weeks and a million years apart. She passed away at the very beginning of the pandemic... Dec.8th 2019. At twenty seven, I was devastated to say the least. I am still. Will always be pissed that my kid had the ADUCITY TO BEAT me the heaven. I always will be.

I sat 10 feet from Doc Watson as he played at the Suwanee River Folk Festival in 1970. He was my hero. Tony Rice and Norman Blake kept the torch alive. But now we got Molly Tuttle and Billy Strings. We are so lucky. It's so wonderful to hear Billy pay tribute to Doc.

I love how educational he makes this whole experience. Billy’s got an old soul.

I’m amazed that there are steadfast bluegrass fans that don’t actually like Billy Strings.

Doc was my # 1 when I first learned acoustic. Loved him. Saw him live twice. Second time he took a flat picking break and was so enthusiastic he fell over backwards in his chair. Never missed a beat. Finished the song laying back with his legs in the air . Stunning.

People mostly talk about Billy's guitar playing genius, but damn...he is a hell of a good singer too.

I’m so glad that I found this young man and his band, absolutely the most talented group. Beautiful music!

I'm 75 years old, and when I was 16, my grandparents took me downtown Mpls. (on a bus no less) to the Guthrie Theater to see Doc Watson! He was so awesome, and I still have the program from that time. It is a precious memory. He'd be so proud of you Billy!! You're amazing!

0:59 "Train that carried my girl from town" 3:57 into "Black Mountain Rag" 7:48 "Southbound" 12:12 "Walk on boy" 16:40 "John Henry" 20:12 "Little Saddie" 24:40 "Tom Dooley" 31:00 "The Coocoo" 35:20 "The Wagoner's Lad" 41:20 "Beaumont rag" 45:11 "Down In The Valley To Pray" 48:15 "Cocaine blues" 52:25 "Way Downtown" 56:50 "Gonna lay down my old guitar" Got tired of scrolling through the comments to find this.

Great tribute to Doc and Merle. My grandfather and Doc was first cousins! I remember hearing Doc play all these songs!

The guitar picking and the singing is intense. Clean, precise and energetic. This is the most exciting combo I have heard in a long time. Then the banjo player just kills! WOW. When the mandolin player started in, my brain about exploded. The future of bluegrass is bright.

I grew up in North Carolina and Doc and later, Merle's music was almost always a part of the music playing in our house. Billy...Thank you for honoring his legacy. AMEN.

Got to give the bass man props. It looks like he’s learning some of these songs on the fly and doing a hell of a job.

He's like Doc but with a wider repertoire of styles. His old- time stuff with his dad is actually my favorite, but this young man is a fucking genius regardless. Thank you, Billy, you're the most inspiring young musician I've found in a decade ❤

How can you not fall in Love with this wonderful Music?

66 year old retired rocker here... would occasionally listen and marvel at bluegrass... but THIS my friend commands respect for well rounded talent! WOW... I can listen to this for HOURS ON END!

If! If I could, I would keep pushing the thumbs up button for this whole performance.

Something tells me I saw Doc Watson .. in Portland it would could might'a been .. it's good stuff, a musical hearty meal .. hey Billy .. you there carryin' it forward ..

Doc would be proud !

America.....you have something very special in this young man, who pays homage to a bluegrass legend in his heart, fingers, and words. Good to see some of the younger generation keeps the older generation living, along with a vital part of Americas history. God bless you all the way from Australia.

I love watching how he just falls into the role, and he does it so flawless.. He was clearly born to lead this kind of amazing sound into the future. Classic, and ever evolving to a more beautiful and modern form. I simply love listening to people with true passion, playing and singing what they love, as much as I love enjoying listening to it. This is the definition of passion, and commitment

That transition into black mountain rag!! 🔥 🔥

Half of my family is from the Appalachian Mountain of Mitchell County, NC. This music just fills my soul, plum full! You fellas are so talented and I Love Every Note! Stunning, Amazing flat picking! Thank You, Billy, Billy, Drew and Royal! You're all, Masters of your instruments! This is the best Bluegrass, since Doc, Lester and Earl. Let us not forget Dear Ole, Wayne Henderson too. ))) THANK YOU ALL,, for this Precious TREASURE and for keeping it Alive ! This brings big tears to my eyes, when I think of our Beloved Doc and Merle.

Not sure what is more impressive, Billy knowing these songs or the bassist learning them in 10 seconds.

He's also just a great story teller. He honors the past and puts his modern spin in. Amazing performer!

This version of “Southbound” is incredible!

I don't think I have ever smiled for an hour and 5 minutes straight before I clicked on this video.

0:59 "Train that carried my girl from town" 3:57 into "Black Mountain Rag" 7:48 "Southbound" 12:12 "Walk on boy" 16:40 "John Henry" 20:12 "Little Saddie" 24:40 "Tom Dooley" 31:00 "The Coocoo" 35:20 "The Wagoner's Lad" 41:20 "Beaumont rag" 48:15 "Cocaine blues" 52:25 "Way Downtown" 56:50 "Gonna lay down my old guitar"

Its good to see youth in Blue Grass.

Goddamn.. Billy is awesome, but his boy playing banjo is amazing. And the dude playing the mandolin is equally amazing. This is a pleasure to listen to. The talent here is beyond belief.

This is the first time I heard Billy Strings, what an accomplished musician this guy is. I could listen to this band all night long and not get bored. You sure are blessed Billy Strings.

The future of bluegrass is in good hands with players like this young man!

Thanks Billy my family roots ran around Applalachia .

This is like gold flowing through my ears unto my soul! My cup filleth up 👊🫀🍻

If Doc Watson heard this... his chest would swell with pride and he would have that great smile that went from ear to ear.....

Billy is such a "Doc head" lol. He is so wholesome and really just so glad he has introduced me to his legendary inspirations!

Crazy where he's been in 5 years!❤

So young ans so ... amazing ...

I got my first guitar at 15, and I taught myself how to play. I thought I was good, sometimes real good. I hear Billy play 1 song and I'm like---50 years and I'm ready to put down this guitar and just go back to pickin' my nose. Go get 'em Billy!

GOOD GOD ALMIGHTY THIS BOY CAN PICK!!!!! DOC WOULD BE PROUD!!

Listened as a kid, loved the blues & country then. 50+ years later love it still esp. with a "kid" (to me) playing & singing the way he does. No walking around like a chicken...picken, grinnin & great renditions. Great band members too...finest caliber! Hopefully he'll be doing it 50 years from now.

This will be a treasure in time, a jewel for the ages! RESECT Billy for actually caring to learn what mountain music is about. Most people don't understand us folks of East Tennessee. Mountain music is real life about real people.

Anybody that clicked this and couldn't stop listening is not alone!

I'm a local to the blue ridge mountains. Grew up beside deep gap in West Jefferson NC and the man is more to us than the rest of the world he's as real as your granny's apple pie or corn fritters frying up in that 88yr old cast iron skillet son! My grandfather was in two different outfits with the man before NYC got ahold of his sweet picking. He was and is a true legend. There's still talent around to this day.We still push it out! Come get ya some. We charge for the pie and fritters though! 😏

I was raised on blue grass music. I feel like I'm back home county is great but blue grass Rock's!

I am not usually the fangirl type but Billy has changed that, I am so in love with his talent,his voice, his passion! I don't care what anyone says 🤷 he is truly the greatest guitarist of all time! 🐐 bmfs 💘 baby! 💘

He is seriously one of my favorite musicans of all time, I always wonder is he as awesome in person as his presence on stage. He seems so genuine!

Ugh- love that young Royal. Such an amazing bassist. “It’s all jazz.” Such a badass. ❤

Billy Strings is sooooooo adorable!!! I love his uniqueness and I enjoy his collaborations with different artists. I think it’d be cool to see Billy Strings and Jack White do some stuff together!

00:00 Billy Strings starts off with a Doc Watson medley 07:46 Southbound (written by Merle Watson) 12:05 Walk On Boy 16:38 John Henry 20:11 Little Sadie 24:20 Tom Dooley 28:35 (Story about Ralph Rinzler, mandolin player with the Greenbriar Boys & music historian) 31:00 The Cuckoo Bird (Billy on clawhammer banjo) 35:20 The Wagoner's Lad (Billy on clawhammer banjo) 41:22 Beaumont Rag 45:12 Down in the Valley to Pray (Billy sings a cappella) 48:21 Let the Cocaine Be 52:26 Way Downtown 56:51 Gonna Lay Down My Old Guitar

Kudos to the bass player getting up on stage without knowing these tunes.

Wow I grew up off bluegrass outlaw country just finding him I been living under rock or something.

Just now discovered Billy. Such talent I cannot believe. Keep it up guys!

It's great to hear youngsters like Billy Strings carry the torch of this priceless AMERICAN music that should never be forgotten!

I hadn't realized before what a historian Billy is, and what a natural story teller.

A whole set of Doc songs? Goodness, gracious!

Billy is it. Whatever it is. So gladmy culture is alive and grassin

Best music siens i left alabama.god bless.

These guys amaze me . True musicians. Thank you lord

Billy’s father raised him with a guitar since a toddler. Other videos are great. A show with him and his dad playing is so good. His father is so proud. He’s wearing a Billy Strings hat. Also played with Tommy Emanuel. Tommy wouldn’t play with just anyone. He’s a living legend!

The cords will touch millions of hearts

That bass player knows what's up

Finding shows like this makes not being be to sleep no so bad

God has got a history of taking the great ones early please god let us keep billy as long as we can

2023 U guys R the Best ❤

Doc’s smiling! I know I am; Billy covers Doc’s songs with heart and soul.

God has truly blessed this young man. I can see Doc smiling down upon him from his heavenly porch.

Always love this, everytime I watch it.

38 yrs of marrage and 3 good souls raised gave me 4 healthy grandchildren amen

I've listened to this 6 times, and just realized that Bill Failings' facial expressions are funny as hell...which says nothing whatsoever about his Gorgeous Banjo Playing. I💙 U Guys. Pick it up Billy, that bow be calling your name. Royal stuck it out to this day thank heaven.Drew doin his thing like it's nothing. Don't quit you guys. You're dearly loved and respected. 💚💚🐢🐢🐘🦩⛈️🌌🌈

Had the pleasure of doing sound for Doc and Merle at local college gigs around his home in NC. He was a true gentleman full of surprises. I once flew to a last minute gig with him in his 4 seat plane. Once airborne he took the controls. He was also known to play Frisbee from time to time; that's how tuned to the elements he was. A true gentleman who never cared for the spotlight just the music and support for anyone who wanted to join in. Billy does him proud he would say.

your good. dont let the fame take you down like so many others. want to hear you play for years.

Damn, I’ll be 67 tomorrow and where have I been. I love this.

Doc Was the first person I heard play guitar in person when I was 7 years old ,sitting in his living room. He played "If the ocean was whiskey " form me and "Wildwood flower " for my mom and I'm loving Billy!!!

I LOVE this music. was raised in Michigan too . Listened and danced to this kind of music a lot. Billy you are so talented and even better with your fantastic band.

This music will wake them fingers right on up.

Drew is such an astonishing player too on the mandolin I love the stunt he pulled on his ride on the Beaumont rag

Not only great raw music, but a history lesson as well.

I'm Addicted to this Video....... I can't STOP watching it.

Amazing how much he sounds like Doc

Your always welcome here in southern Illinois and gary Indiana Timothy Martin and Mr Harold headly I'm 60 Harold is 85 we believe in you god bless you forever

There's something about those hills. Thanks, Billy Strings.

We've lost Doc, but gained Billy. Amazing musicians.