Songs of Appalachia: Watch Wade Darnell play his banjo

'Traditional bluegrass is the root of everything else' for 16-year-old Wade Darnell, a banjo player from Oak Ridge, Tenn.
Video by Lauren Spuhler/knoxnews.com
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[@VonGoethe]

I just want to let you guys know that this guy has had a great career so far. He is the Chancellor of Austria right now! Chapeau! Chase your dreams!

[@2fliege]

arnautovic would say shampoo

[@Killerkarotte1]

More like Wannabe-Dictator auf Austria. :-D

[@shawnstaton941]

Banjo music is the best. I only listen to bluegrass. My Mother grew up in the Hills of SouthEastern Kentucky and i love hearing a good banjo picker

[@cuchulainn1659]

I wish I had of been that level headed when I was 16.

[@zodglubby]

Me too

[@lonnieabrams2040]

Elvis said ambition is a dream with a v8 engine. I was a good friend to one of elvis backup singer JD Sumner. He told me to make a living at what you love doing and you'll never have to work for a living. One of J D's prayer was he wanted to sing bass till his last breath. GOD answered JD's prayer. I'm sure he will answer yours thanks your a blessing.

[@hombre1049]

" If it wasn't for God workin' in my life." Thank you Brother for the truth.

[@oksills]

Young man, you summed it ALL up when you said, “ It’s all because of God working in my life. I wouldn’t be holding it right now if it weren’t for God!”. Amen, Amen, and Amen! What a joy and blessing you must be to your dear parents! Well done family; all around! Maranatha!

[@ShniitSchneyder]

All the people confused with all the Austrians in the comments =DD Griassi an alle Landsleute!

[@briarjames4038]

You probably dont give a shit but if you're bored like me atm then you can stream pretty much all the new movies on InstaFlixxer. Been binge watching with my girlfriend recently :)

[@gordonlachlan4144]

@Briar James Yea, I've been watching on Instaflixxer for since november myself :)

[@christian9125abd]

@ look at our fucking cancellor

[@tzm2019]

@ I am pretty late here, but the reason is the fact, that he looks like the Austrian prime-minister

[@xumpagogo]

Wade you're on the right track brother. Also thx for keeping mountain music alive.

[@Leo-uu8du]

Yes, the Austrian chancellor with his alpine mountain music saves the world from the corona virus.

[@456swagger]

Man this kid can play the minute waltz in 50 seconds.

[@jeffreycollins7297]

more like 15 seconds. this guy is most likely about 2X as good as he was then.

[@cdrlofibeats]

@@jeffreycollins7297 more like a minute

[@Leo-uu8du]

And now he reigns over Austria

[@pickleddolphinmeatwithhors677]

That would make it the 50 second waltz

[@zuzannawisniewska4464]

This kid is awesome. I hope someone discovers him!...from Chicago, Illinois.

[@TheMidnightModder]

And people say Appalachian people are dumb. This guy is clearly smarter than the average person. People like this make me proud to be Appalachian born and raised.

[@donrutter6765]

The dude has more talent in one finger than the young pop and rap "stars" on the radio right now.

[@jasonmiller9495]

Yeah but he's a white male who probably likes ladies

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Don Rutter Banjo music sucks, but I'm forced to admit it's better than rap or modern pop.

[@redharlow3926]

You hicks should totally belittle his gnarly talent with your bigotry.

[@williamwiggs6328]

@@redharlow3926 you do realize that calling people hicks is bigotry as well, right? It's even worse when it's coming from another white man. Self-haters should be the first to hang.

[@Popcorn_Kernel]

@@jasonmiller9495 that makes no difference

[@robbiefrantz8170]

Wade, I definitely think you can go SOMEWHERE with your banjo. Sky's the Limit. Keep on doing what you are doing. God has a plan for your life.

[@29687ray]

America is still out there you just have to go find it.

[@mikemower1939]

Thats a song, by Simon and Garfunkel.

[@THENUTSBIGDIRTYBASEMENT]

Your bike looks sick!

[@smathew257]

America can still take down the NWO

[@thatguytv2130]

america is slowly dying.

[@sarahaugustine4185]

Time to step up then ThatGuyTV. Nice job Mr. Darnell, you are one heck of a banjo player.

[@dkeith15]

Wow, this kid's good. You can tell he's just a good 'ol country boy. Keep up the pickin' and grinnin' young man!

[@peterpulpitpounder]

Your mention of God, and the fact that you play for His glory, is very refreshing to hear. :)

[@delsaabbott6766]

So glad to hear you give God the glory for your gift, I pray you are able to have playing the Bango as your career.

[@streetcat957]

He definitely fell from the sky with a banjo in his hands

[@Darin-USMCB--]

To say this kid is good is major understatement!

[@pauldean8638]

See that smirk at the end , that's the smirk of" I picked that tune fast, clear and crispy , lets see if you can do better " rest of us just stand there with jaws dropped in amazement ,the kids so cool his slippers are ice blocks,he just glides through life

[@domingue4god]

Thanks for giving the glory to God. He will continue to bless you for it!

[@cyndifoore7743]

I’m so glad to hear him acknowledge God for his interest in playing the banjo. He’s a fantastic musician!

[@panhead1348]

DAYUM!!! This guy kicks ass!!! I swear he had that banjo smoking and Spitting Fire!!

[@sgtbma1]

What a talented, humble young man ! This kid would most likely help any of you haters if he found you in need . He is no threat of ever killing, or hurting your teenagers in a drive by or drug deal ! But you go ahead and deem him the scourge of society! Since you no longer know right from wrong ! ❤✝️❤

[@jameswells-uk6qu]

You certainty were. A natural talent. Man..can you play..awesome! Love that you're carring on the tradition! Man, you're fast! Live it!!!! I hope you can make it your career. Let's bring real music back..yes you have a GOD GIVEN TALENT!!!

[@fasustinasmith5414]

What a remarkable talent. ..gifted by God is right. What and articulate talented young man. Awesome music..

[@bobb.9152]

Do it young man. You are a genius. I am going to make sure we follow your career. God bless you.

[@jeremyblack3394]

5-String is the prettiest instrument ever made & played. That son of a gun can flat out pick.

[@jeremyblack3394]

***** you pick the 5-string?

[@SusanKarenBauer]

+Jungle Skunk Gaming I've got a pretty good ear, and I didn't hear one "off" note. In fact, even his flats are perfectly placed. Sounds like a bit of jealousy there, maybe? Gotta say I love the fact that he gave credit where credit's due, too (to God giving him the ability to play). "The kid" (as you put it - I believe his name is Wade) is amazing.

[@SusanKarenBauer]

+Jungle Skunk Gaming But why even...? Never mind.

[@jeremyblack3394]

Susan Bauer isn't tone deaf... she's right as rain about this young man. ***** I'd love to listen to you pick. Do they call a 4-string banjo a Tenor Banjo?

[@jeremyblack3394]

As do I. How long have you played your banjo & what finger picking style do you use?

[@robertanderson8136]

This guy was born to play the banjo, for the people who gave a thumbs down, why did you evrn watch this ?????? The guy is amazing !!!!!!

[@Photoeye65]

Mr. Darnell, you are a amazing and talented young man!

[@Leo-uu8du]

He is very talented, but he probably shouldn't do austrian politics lol

[@redhottadame]

I'm here because I love the banjo, and this kid can play!

[@shantyirish7564]

Thank you for keeping our American heritage alive. God bless you, young man.

[@melaniemarshall6942]

Beautiful you are sweet heart! You play with style and flare indeed.. A pleasure to hear you.. and my Heart is happy for you to be doin' what you love in life.. Playin' Banjo.. and I am fortunate for hearing you play.. Thank you Darnell.. thank you Knoxville News for sharing! Xo

[@danahughes6606]

This boy has a gift from God! Thanks for sharing! God bless!

[@whoknowsidont.5147]

Seems sheltered from the worlds ignorance. Thank you kindly young inspiration (man).

[@Ronin4614]

I've been playing and teaching acoustic instruments since '65. This lad has the perfect fingers to be able to reach just about anything with fingertips dancing on the fretboard. I love seeing and hearing young folks with a passion for playing. Well done, lad!!

[@fvids1603]

For those 97 who thumbs down.... let’s see what you can do. This kid rocks what a God given talent... and he uses it. Well done keep on

[@millieatr]

Anyone that would watch this video and disrespect this kid, I would have to wonder about your upbringing, look at yourself in the mirror before you judge someone else

[@diosantana2659]

Preach on brother brad

[@zombieslayer2.0xx3]

But what if we can play as well?

[@HillbillyTemplar]

Post it

[@Mezzy113]

ZombieSlayer2.0xx oh then by all means, hate on a 16 year old shredder. post it.

[@jweaver9242]

brad fiser Jeff and sherry easter

[@budm.1450]

Giving the Glory to God. Good for you son, and from one Banjo picker to another, I wish you the very best of what this world has to offer you. Oh, and bye the way, you learned real well.

[@lonnieclemens8028]

This young man gives credit to God for his ability. I have thoroughly enjoyed this video.

[@dukadarodear2176]

Lonnie Clemens Brilliant playing Polite, smart player. But in his own house God prefers the Organ, it seems. I hope he hears this.

[@utah133]

Keep it up. The banjo is our American instrument. I can't believe the speed you've developed.

[@jeffebdy]

Who could have given this amazing musician a thumbs down? Big respect from England (tho former resident of the NC High Country)

[@keithgood3419]

Smart kid!!! Ask the glory goes to God!! If he keeps thinking like that he has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to worry about!!! DEFINITELY PLAYS EXTREMELY WELL!!!

[@f1chtl]

Sebastian Kurz zuhause im Waldviertel, 1998 colorized.

[@janicebartmess9950]

Thank you, sir, for continuing the traditional music of our grandfatehrs and great grandfathers!

[@Brace67]

Now that boy can pick! Lots of talent there.

[@arlo247]

Your hands are like a metronome!!! Better than!!! How is that possible??? Amazing 💗💗💗

[@huskvarsm]

that boy can sure play man the speed of that finger roll man he's fast god bless son you have been given a gift by god.

[@Kalvin5]

So great to see a young person passionate abut playing REAL MUSIC. Thank God he found music to be his calling because he is a HELLA good picker and hopefully Wade continues to progress and inspire other young people to pick up and play real music on real instruments.

[@dexterdave54]

✝️ That's some good banjo playing, Mr Darnell. Bless you

[@cavanpaulmulvihill9940]

May God bless America and keep her safe in His arms.

[@SuperFreeamerican]

We need more people like him in this world.

[@666madmonk]

this gives me hope for the future. young folks keeping it alive

[@5winder]

When you realize you have a gift --- praise the giver.

[@ladyladychickchick9133]

Talented, handsome and knowledgeable- bet his Mama is proud!

[@MindSweep43]

You are great Buddy! There is a real excitement about the banjo when you play it.

[@jerrymatthews8968]

Very good pickin , I enjoyed very much.!!

[@josephconsoli4128]

You're amazing. When you find love, in any form, it's a beautiful thing!

[@MaghoxFr]

Awesome accent. Real authentic culture. Virtuoso skills. Epic.

[@stephenschultz9901]

"If I could go somewhere with this, I'd be very happy..." GO WITH IT, BROTHER!! You have a gift that needs to be shared far and wide 🤘

[@johnathanlanders1200]

Now that is music young man keep it comin!

[@rudypeterson4514]

Top notch playing buddy!

[@merlynschutterle7242]

I hope after all these years you have realized that feeling is more important than speed. I can appreciate your skill level.

[@thewinchester1775]

THE FACT THAT HE LOOKS EXACTLY LIKE THE AUSTRIAN CHANCELLOR??? i didn’t read the title and thought it was actually him💀💀

[@Pedroleum100]

You mean the Austrian chancellor. I think the Counselors are the magnificent seven who are heading the government of Switzerland.

[@ambergibson4494]

What a joy to hear a young person give God the glory! :) God certainly has given this fellow talent. I pray God continues to bless you Mr.Wade and you just keep holding on to Him.

[@jannellemorgan1299]

I cannot play the banjo, but, love listening to it. Thanks for sharing your talents.

[@jerzygawor958]

Awesome! Long live Bluegrass! With this banjo player ripping the strings this beautiful genre of music will never die. God Bless.

[@daysgobye]

This kid is awesome. He got a good attitude about him and he genuinely loves playing banjo.

[@zenmeister451]

+Movingontobetterthin Yes he is! And that's what it's all about. Who gives a hoot whether he is as proficient as 'someone' else might think. He plays because he loves to play. Enough said!

[@shadcoe5326]

I am a man of constant sorrow all through his days!

[@JacobsOompa]

WOW.....what a Banjo Life you are gonna have.....you are extremely "seasoned'' already...and at such a young age....you can call yourself a "banjo player" when you can't think of hardly anything else to do, and when you get up in the morning and think "banjo"...you are suppose to be a banjo player....your future is ahead of you and it's BRIGHT and CLEAR....what a great BANJO LIFE you will have.....Great job young man...WOW...Loved this...and REALLY enjoyed your story during this video presentation....VERY WELL done....Good Luck!! GOD BLESS YOU!! Ken from Orlando, FL

[@muellerd123]

is this sarcastic? or do you just love jesus a whole lot?

[@daphneszeles28]

+muellerd123 some people use dot dot dot. ive seen it used

[@b67833]

WOW NICE! The chancellor from Austria is a great banja player

[@MrDanoconnor]

You are Truely a Inspiration to me and all "would be" Banjo Players. Godspeed

[@gigi7556]

Keep giving God the glory first and He will blow your mind as He has used your skills to blow ours!!

[@sweetleaf9668]

Happy and proud to be from the Clinch Mountain area!

[@forestfreeman7079]

This kids tearing it up and then he did the harmonics as well!!! SIC 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@brittanylamonte]

Wade, I hope you're able to see all these positive comments and use them as fuel for your passion. You are truly talented and I believe you will be able to live out your pickin dreams. !

[@shallNOTbeinfringed-vp9wo]

The good lord gave you a amazing gift there. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[@classic287]

Very nice. The banjo playing and the enthusiasm.......

[@coopart1]

Wonderful to see an artist so in love with his medium .

[@un-filteredpatriot1189]

You deserve to make it your career. Talented.

[@jasoncarlson7106]

Amazing talent !!! Keep it up !!! Lol, look at how fast his fingers are movin !!!

[@RailScaleX]

LONG live our praised austrian chancellor!

[@steffenritter7497]

Young man, I started singing tenor in the chorus of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, at the age of 15, back in the 1960's. I had a good career as a chorister, and later, as a solo artist. I would trade that voice for your ability on the banjo, and that's a fact. I love country ...

[@stuartdkent2520]

God be PRAISED after hearing you play, Brother! You light that thang up, so keep on lightin' and giving God the glory. Fantastic smokin' banjo!

[@kristinahuffman6176]

I could listen to you all day

[@destro420kush]

Banjo is my favorite instrument 👍 you are more than alright brother.

[@the_original_Bilb_Ono]

I play guitar but I want to learn banjo and dobro but I'm horrible at finger picking styles. I learned with a pick and I've gotten pretty decent at doing bluesy sounds and metal riffs. But I can't get my right hand to finger pick. I'm sure if I'd practice more i could, but after 5 minutes I say screw it and grab my favorite pick.

[@virgilvirden1403]

Since God says he is responsible for all things,you nailed brother.

[@jeandumler2129]

Ein gutes Beispiel wie wichtig Förderung von jungen Künstlern ist: hätte jemand Sebastian Kurz Banjokarriere gefördert wäre er nie in die Politik gegangen

[@joergjamnig53]

Würde euch Sozis passen 😜

[@BLCKCSTLS]

Fucking rekt

[@soul_in_balance6923]

+Jean Du Und hätte Gott Ihnen mehr Hirn geschenkt, würden Sie nicht solche unqualifizierten Kommentare eines Gutmenschen auf KZbin abgeben.

[@libertytree732]

BLCKCSTLS and the only English speaking guy in this small comment section.

[@faregare9130]

@HansI Gurtner jetzt kann er mit seinen ohren einen segelschein machen und auf dennen davon segeln

[@2002MX5]

What a gift. And, hard work.

[@TheCincykid420]

Most people under 30 these days probably wouldn't go and listen to a guy like this, but I've played guitar for 15+ years. Bluegrass is one of the most involved types of music. This guy has a unique style and he's young. Ckeck out the sleepy man banjo boys also!

[@keithgood3419]

TheCincykid420 YEAH, I've heard them play, they are VERY VERY good especially for their age!!!

[@Bryan-wq9vq]

Good playing bless you for giving God the honor

[@martinlavoie4002]

That boy can certainly play the Banjo good licks and sweet rithim

[@als1023]

The world is in another good pair of hands, gives a wonderful feeling knowing these young people are around, you go man, keep on pickin' !

[@stephen0793]

Keeping up with Appalachian heritage! Hell yeah. Just picked up a Mandolin myself. Keep on keeping on man!

[@stephaniedobbs683]

I'm always glad to hear people thank the Lord for their talent. It is God Given and you do it well.

[@dandelion121276]

Ur a gem wish there were more ppl like u thank u for sharing ur talent God bless you I'm a subscriber now

[@charliebubbles9501]

That’s some skill you got there son.....👍🏻👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@edwardc7462]

Fantastic player and very nice banjo

[@billmacelroy7577]

Kind of amazing a young fellow like that has such a level headed and mature awareness and motivation let alone the skill development he has achieved at his age. Impressive all around!

[@grumblekin]

The banjo is the finest instrument ever made and the King of All Instruments. This kid can pick like falling off Rocky Top. I bet by now he's a major star!

[@Odin029]

The banjo is a great example of the cultural melding and sharing that helped make American culture so rich and varied

[@thoigau]

Yes, actually he is the chancellor of Austria now

[@user-uv4xe3cq2y]

Great presentation. Thanks for sharing, Wade. Follow your dream!