Bela Fleck And Abigail Washburn: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

May 11, 2018 | Bob Boilen -- A very pregnant Abigail Washburn points to Bela Fleck at the Tiny Desk and says "and just so you know, this is his fault." I won't spoil the video by telling you his response.
Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn are two American musical treasures. This husband-and-wife banjo duo write original tunes steeped in the roots of folk music. Their playing is sweetly paced with melodies interweaving through their intricate, percussive picking all while Abigail soars above it all with her discerning, yearning voice.
Their first tune, "Over the Divide," was written at the height of the Syrian Refugee Crisis. They'd read a story about a Jewish, yodeling, Austrian sheep herder who helped Syrians out of Hungary, through the backroads that likely only sheep herders know.
The second tune, "Bloomin' Rose," is a response to Standing Rock and the Dakota pipeline that is seen as a threat to water and ancient burial grounds. The intensity and thoughtfulness in Bela Fleck's and Abigail Washburn's music is why it will shine for a good long while, the way great folk tunes stay relevant over the ages.
For the third tune, Abigail waddled over to a clogging board. And before she began her rhythmic patter, told us all that "my doctor said that what I'm about to do is ok! I have compression belts and tights on that you can't see." They then launched into "Take Me To Harlan," another one of their songs from their 2017 album Echo In The Valley.
Both Bela and Abigail have come to the Tiny Desk separately in different musical configurations: Bela with Edgar Meyer on bass fiddle and Zakir Hussain on tabla, and Abigail with her band celebrating both American and Chinese traditions. But together they are a timeless power that must be witnessed.
SET LIST
"Over the Divide"
"Bloomin' Rose"
"Take Me To Harlan"
"My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains"
MUSICIANS
Bela Fleck (banjo), Abigail Washburn (vocals, banjo)
CREDITS
Producers: Bob Boilen, Morgan Noelle Smith; Creative Director: Bob Boilen; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Dani Lyman; Production Assistant: Joshua Bote; Photo: Eslah Attar/NPR.

[@Aberjan]

I can't help but be jealous of their child: they will grow up with some of the most musically talented people on the planet. As for me, I wouldn't mind being reborn as their dog so I could listen to them playing music at home.

[@rutvikrs]

He's called the "Holy Banjo Emperor"

[@JevaisaNY]

Me too!

[@kaT-ori]

Wuff!!!

[@bonniesom9979]

Can we just appreciate the talent here? I mean Béla is always great, but Abigail is singing WHILE clogging WHILE being quite pregnant. Amazing.

[@ramirolopez1995]

That baby must be flipping

[@lawbail5956]

hahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@RicardoZein]

Truly amazing indeed.

[@ligialewis2182]

Bela, as always , is simply amazing . Together with Abigail here, they sound like a banjo symphony . Wonderful sound and synchronicity , totally artistic . These are lovely human beings who just happen to be genius musicians . I want to take this opportunity to thank NPR for their simply amazing work in many areas . But the Tiny Desk Concerts are a real blessing for me , particularly since I'm retired and lots of time on my hands . With my trusty little IPad in my hands I can listen for hours to amazing , tasteful , creative , soothing , arousing and satisfying music . It's making cultured , after so many , many years ( 79 ). Thanks . George Lewis, Sr

[@marcscordato4385]

Bela is likely the greatest banjo player on earth but I’m blown away by Abigail, she plays and sings so beautifully. It was a joy to see them live. Bela is the David Bowie of Banjo he is forever reinventing him self. I’ve seen him with the flectones, Chick Corea and Abigail not to mention his classical recordings , one of the greatest musicians of our time. I put him on par with Pat Metheny, Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock.

[@defenestrator214]

I hope I'm not the only one who can be totally in love with this and Anderson .Paak. I will forever love my father for passing his diverse taste in to me, and Tiny Desk for celebrating so many types of music.

Ditto. But honestly most things here is amazing. Not just Anderson .Paak and this, SOOOOO many gems

for me at least

[@Michael_______]

That's a lovely thing thing to say about your dad

[@mandiekins316]

I LOVE THEM! I first saw them in Nashville at the Opry, and they have had me since. I have a long history of mountain music in my family and they just speak to me. Love it. And I love her bump! That child is blessed!

[@josephmaggard752]

I saw them live Last night and got to meet them after the show, they took the time to talk to my mom and I, it meant the absolute world to us. Banjo heroes unite!

[@kevinmichaelcallihansr5053]

two pleasant personalities who share their love of music and for love of one another, the result being a happy audience. Thanking you kindly.

[@drpepperr]

Bob Boilen:. With the Tiny Desk series, tou have enriched my life more than I could explain. Thank you.

[@atabutter440]

So true Scott without NPR I would never have heard of so many of the amazingly talented musical people they have performing. FindIng NPR and Tiny Desk has been a blessing and yes - enriching!

[@ElGuitaristo79]

Wonderful musicians, wonderful people!

[@GG4L773]

Born and raised in Chicago it was around ‘97 I was introduced to Bela Fleck and Victor Wooten it was at this time I realized the true essence of music. Being from the south side came with certain limitations Bela and Company helped me exceed them tho. Thank you NPR and thank you Bela Fleck today at 30 years old I truly have been given a gift. The gift of MUSIC

[@kyledetring1175]

victor is one of those cats that make all music better, after seeing someone so immersed and capable of reaching audio nirvana. that man shreds. those years were so amazing, i grew up on em too

[@TobiasRobertson]

Her vocal timings are so beautiful, similar energy to Joanna Newsom. Both their playing is so technical and wonderful too. Can always count on NPR.

[@Aberjan]

The second song immediately reminded me of Joanna Newsom. I love them both, so this is a real treat.

[@JuliaLunatica]

yeah! i just think to myself, this have to be a Joanna vocals influence :O both have a unique and beautiful range

[@adamtorres109]

Technical but souless.

[@jimmymack4079]

This is the greatest Tiny Desk. I love this duo’s sound, Bela is my favourite virtuoso string player, and the uncompromising mixing of the two divergent banjo styles wherein Abigail plays the “other ‘ so well, is always thrilling. But Bela’s tears while Abigail clogs adds a whole new dimension. Thank you for not being afraid to show your love in the fist bump …

[@mattmccarthymusic]

"I did the hard part" cracked me up!! A great musician and an expert at dad jokes. He's the full package......

[@hellopinkham]

long time fan. so glad tiny desk featured them

[@CapoeiraPiper]

Been waiting a long time for this! They're just gorgeous!

[@GPaRichie]

I've always loved their music, individually and together, but this video made me realize how much I truly enjoy spending time with these kind people. Thanks so much for sharing this with us, Bob.

[@RikardPeterson]

Great! (But I don't expect less from Béla/Abigail or Tiny Desk. Thanks for being awesome!)

[@janskovajsa]

Beautiful music for two banjos, voice and pair of shoes. Thank you Bela and Abigail for inspiration!

[@shannondudley3757]

These two plus Chris Thile would be a SuperGroup for the ages. X

[@tomrichardson5433]

shannon dudley see goat rodeo sessions.

[@popgrubbs]

I'd take Sara Watkins more than CT, but I do see exactly what you mean. Throw in Anders Beck on Dobro and it would be an absolute blast!

[@_trbr]

This comment is very old, but I want to let you know that in 2021 Bela Fleck and Chris Thile did get together, but unfortunately not with Abigail; however, they were with another super star, Billy Strings. On the album My Bluegrass Heart. The three play on Slippery Eel and Charm School, Chris and Bela play Psalm 136

[@1yamawai1]

what a trip for the kid in there!!

[@jamesconnor4210]

These very polished musicians. A real privilege to listen to their music. Wonderful voice!

[@bornodnoc1034]

That will be a cute video for the kids to look at when they're older.

[@carpentrydesigndovetail4219]

incredible... thank you

[@senseidrink7287]

This gives me nostalgia from times I've never known.

[@brewstergisbourne3733]

This is simply too much fun. Love it.

[@lawbail5956]

This first tune OVER THE DIVIDE will follow you around all day........thank goodness!!!

[@marim0y]

Gives me chills. So beautiful. Can wait to download the podcast so I can listen to this whenever.

[@trash.picker]

marim0y where can you tune in to the podcast?

[@marim0y]

Ethan Oswald npr.org search for tiny desk concerts. I have that, 1A, Wait wait Don't tell me, and Fresh Air all on my phone. I love their podcasts.

[@Delta19G]

Wickedly deep lyrics. Truth is such a powerful tool when put together correctly can make any man stand up against the unjust

[@biggdogg1975]

That’s some mighty fine picking and singing

[@huskvarsm]

Absolutely astounding made me wanna cry laugh sing dance and scream really very very moving.

[@thesmellycatjazz]

Hell yea! Bela is a beast. Glad to see him on here. They surprised the hell outta me when they went on Adult Swim's Fishcenter, but the more I see of them the better

[@jayharnish6231]

What magical, mystical world did I land in? Beautiful!!

[@eventtrading]

Four Years later and it rocks

[@quentinWqy]

Awesome music! Talent musicians!

[@lotrelotre4689]

Merveilleux . Merveilleuse musique . Merveilleuses personnes .

[@raybrodie3122]

Perfection!

[@dpav8r]

Love her music.

[@adamblumenthal99]

My head just exploded in the most beautiful way possible...

[@goodbyegye8047]

Killer combination of talent, enthusiasm, and good looks

[@AlamoCityCello]

Bravo! Sounds great guys

[@rosalienmander9357]

Sooo good

[@afterpeluche8200]

Qué encantadora es Abigail! Conocía a Bela, pero qué equipo logran, en tantos sentidos!

[@donghwn1]

sounds good!

[@flyingcheff]

He better be madly in love with her, I sure am!! How beautiful a pregnant and happy loved woman is!

[@harmvonlintig7146]

crazy bunch. love it.

[@davidcarlson1208]

Very nice!

[@davidcarlson1208]

awesome!

[@davenelson-xk6oc]

cant wait to see Bela here in Louisville KY this weekend didn't know they were married two of my fave

[@ph00z00]

very beautiful music and people. p.s. thanks so much for the covid lockdown streams

[@murderhill1947]

Very nice.

[@SPEEDBOATMANIAC410]

** Sounds Good .. Talented

[@teriscallon]

crazy talent here

[@al6939]

Reflecting the sound on trees

[@Dendrophile3]

Exquisite.

[@Stallagmite]

magical

[@camtron]

Blooming Rose is a wonderful song.

[@MedSou]

Banjo sound ❤❤❤

[@tadrimmey8746]

Bela is always amazing, but Abigail is extra-super Amazing! Playing, singing and even dancing while VERY pregnant and maintaining a great sense of humor!! She is fantastic.

[@Havron12345]

Amazing performance by both -- Abagail can sing -- wow!

[@shawnsimmons1308]

Excellent performance!! (I'm saddened to admit this, but, with this constant barrage of bad news we've had over the past couple of years, I had almost forgotten about Standing Rock. I suck!!)

[@fireyflower6643]

Beautiful almost haunting voice

[@wesleypeck8265]

Oh hell to the goddamn yes.

[@michaelbruchas6663]

He never seems to age - just change wardrobe or shave/not shave. ALWAYS with great musical partners, too!

[@biolumin5406]

If you want to hear more from Bela Fleck, listen to some tracks from his band 'Bela Fleck and the Flecktones'; Victor Wooten is also part of it.

[@lucaspanizza]

Maravilhoso

[@adrianbirkett594]

Amazing!, say you playing with Rory gallagher r. i. p.a few years ago!!! You two were amazing together. A 🍀🍀

[@michaelcontreras148]

Now that’s talent

[@danielibarra0796]

¡Charming!

[@BenjaminTrillado]

Wow.

[@phillius356]

love these guys.. especially the foot stomping! anyone know what type of banjo Abigail Washburn is playing in the second track?

[@jhostmusic]

It's a Baritone Banjo. Gold Tone ML-1 "Missing Link"

[@Alex-nj7eo]

It's a cello banjo from Goldtone, the CEB-5, I think.

[@riverthecat]

Natural flawless music...no moog synthesizer here...really love this sound from the gut..

[@Chropoles]

so this is what Love is ... Beautiful XD

[@chechar3dg]

i was searching for epic banjo, i was not dissapointed

[@TsunamiDreamJesusIsLord]

awesome! Jesus bless you!

[@kennynowell9679]

Huh. Just realized that a low-tuned banjo. Cool.

[@ERRORFACE1]

gosh a pregnant woman mushing around like that hats off lady

[@mones6]

👏👏👏

[@sametzweiler2630]

Does anyone else have a dad that got them into Bela?

[@Jaycalsun]

Sam Etzweiler McCloud my goal is to be that dad

[@chipsmith5499]

Saw Bela one of his first shows in Nashville back in the mid 80's with Newgrass Revival. I told him after the set that i'd never heard a banjo so "dark" . He smiled and shook my hand and said "Yea ! That's what i'm going for !"

[@lawbail5956]

my son!!!!!

[@mrdjr6544]

I don't have a dad Sam.

[@alekjohnson321]

Our annual trip across I-84 through the gorge to Portland, OR was always filled with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones. It's served to introduce me to so much incredible music, whether by genre, or musicianship. Jazz Fusion is now my all-time favorite genre. So, Thank you, Dad.

[@mckayman24]

Everyone please check out Béla Fleck and the Flecktones

[@maldwyn1]

that voice though

[@user-dz5gj1nz5v]

不错👍

[@AMBear-fy3bf]

Bela flecks pretty cool... but he’ll never be cooler than when he fist bumped his heavily pregnant dancing wife #respect

[@51tomtomtom]

saw Bela w th Flecktones many many years ago , but w Abigail he becomes round like her pregnant belly !

[@MarvillousBeats]

This was nice lol

[@user-bj4nu4yw5i]

Java programming book brought me here.

[@eventtrading]

Amazing Take Me to Harlem

[@PollaDuraRockera]

Lucky baby

[@reneepuvvada]

Love her voice!

[@tonywords6713]

👌

[@paulbyrnesrmt2929]

Yessss Bela!!! Throw down your NRP

[@jeremywilliams5514]

Does anyone know the second kind of banjo Abigail is using? Looks like it has a bigger body and thicker strings, but I don't know much about banjos.

[@al6939]

Can’t Imagine what you’d sound like in open nature

[@jc6594]

Happy 60th Birthday Bela Fleck

[@manuelugartearce8241]

Lovely plucked strings filigrane!

[@kobayashimr1404]

Black Milk next! :)

[@marshpw]

Got another musical genuis baking in the oven!!!

[@mr.pleaseparty7780]

Please get coheed and cambria

[@Calers-gu1ib]

Why does it take so long to put out the Grace Vanderwaal video?

[@ryleecannon6001]

y'all gotta get my people Men I Trust on here