Earl Scruggs And Friends - Foggy Mountain Breakdown (2001)

Written by Earl Scruggs
Banjo: Earl Scruggs
2nd banjo solo: Steve Martin
1st electric guitar solo: Vince Gill
2nd electric guitar solo: Albert Lee
Acoustic guitar: Randy Scruggs
Dobro: Jerry Douglas
Fiddle: Glen Duncan
Mandolin: Marty Stuart
Bass: Glenn Worf
Drums: Harry Stinson
Harmonica: Gary Scruggs
Piano: Paul Shaffer
Organ: Leon Russell
Recorder: Ron Reynolds
Mixer: Ron Reynolds
Additional Engineer: Todd Parker
© MCA Nashville
Earl Scruggs received a second Grammy for his composition of Foggy Mountain Breakdown, at the 44th annual ceremony on February 27, 2002, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. First recorded on December 11, 1949, by the bluegrass artists Flatt & Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys, he first released his instrumental March 15, 1950. It reached No. 55, and was featured as background music in the 1967 movie Bonnie and Clyde, especially in the car chase scenes, and has been used in a similar manner in many other films and television programs, particularly when depicting a pursuit scene in a rural setting. He recorded it with Lester Flatt and their performance was awarded a Grammy for Best Country Performance, Duo or Group - Vocal Or Instrumental at the 11th ceremony in 1969.
He recorded another performance in 2001 with Steve Martin on second banjo, Vince Gill on guitar, Marty Stuart on mandolin, Paul Shaffer on piano among many others. This work won the Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance in 2002.
In 2004, it was one of 50 recordings chosen that year by the Library of Congress to be added to the National Recording Registry.

[@garrettrussell8346]

Little known fact: They had to stop the recording numerous times when Earl's banjo burst into flames during his solo.

[@madams6198]

He claimed that was only a rumor... A rumor that happened over and again!

[@normankendall8480]

Hahaha right on

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's too bad😂😂😂

[@comfortablynumb7265]

😛👍 *In the voice of Jim Carrey from "The Mask" ..... " SsMOkin'!!!!!💨 🚬🔥🧯😁😉😝

[@fifty5074]

Whas he picking that fast?

[@bloodeagle6458]

"They didn't start chasing us until you turned on that getaway music" - a legend

[@Zak-tz4gy]

exactly

[@caroleastin9479]

​@@Zak-tz4gy .

[@caroleastin9479]

🎉😅😢❤

[@k.a.2442]

😂😂😂😂😂😂 H.Simpson

[@Tessie46255]

Perfect

[@harrywinslow3946]

Argue if you want, but this is the greatest bluegrass video ever made.

[@blessedtrinity9664]

No can do

[@kennethmalone2856]

I don't think I wouldn't necessarily consider this Bluegrass. I consider it a hybrid form of Bluegrass. I don't think they have organs or pianos in Blue Grass. LOL. I would just consider this one one hell of a jam session. Maybe the best jam session ever.

[@Space_Drifter0621]

Every time I hear this song I imagine someone escaping from an avalanche while riding a mine cart

[@jdinhuntsvilleal4514]

Well, I'll argue FOR you. For another post I looked up "best bluegrass songs" and according to ranker.com Foggy Mountain Breakdown is the NUMBER ONE all time favorite, and since this has GOT to be the best version of that tune you're right, this HAS to be the "greatest bluegrass video ever made."

[@rodjohnon4950]

Have you heard rawhide from Ricky Skaggs yet?

[@carltonmorrison2148]

What a bunch of talented musicians and who's still listening to this in 2021

[@gduanerollinsjr3693]

TRUE Talent

[@oreobenavidez953]

Me cause country music is not what it used to be

[@Herr_Keystyne]

@@oreobenavidez953 yeah its all about drugs and beating wife

[@oreobenavidez953]

@@Herr_Keystyne to totally honest I have no idea what the lyrics are about cause if the music sounds horrible I ain't listening

[@mattf8479]

Anyone who sees this comment is listening in 2021.

[@justfriendsgaming6151]

Can we talk about how Steve Martin is killing on that banjo. What a G!

[@johnbevan4879]

I thought this video was some elaborate comedy sketch when I first saw it - had no idea he was an expert banjo picker! BUT - is he in the room with these guys? The shots of him don't have anyone else in them, and he's not in the group shots. Odd.

[@loosensloppy8380]

Steve Martin can pick a mean banjer. Look up some of his music if you're into some good bluegrass.

[@txgmae1412]

Hell yeah! If you don't like this, we can't be friends. 😂

[@ZombifiedGuitarist]

Steve's cool, but Jerry Douglass on dobro is sick too.

[@burningisis]

@@johnbevan4879 Steve Martin is a very accomplished banjo player. He even has an amazing band!

[@josephkearns3999]

What still impresses me with this video is that Harry Stinson could continuously play a train rhythm on the drums for almost 5 minutes. That's challenging.

[@fredholstein7005]

Always enjoy listening, good for the bones

[@fha1758]

Yeah no kidding

[@artpetty1591]

Handsome Harry is the man. Top shelf talent.

[@charlesdavis391]

IF this doesn't get you revved up, you had better check for a pulse!

[@marioortiz4529]

It’s scientifically proven this song is able to cure depression.

[@brendabernstein286]

Abso-freaking-lutely

[@coleenneilson2209]

It cured mine🤗just saying

[@BlyGuy]

I'm not depressed, but this song makes me happy and I've now listened to it probably 30 times since discovering it yesterday.

[@dmullinax1000]

I played this song, over a dozen times yesterday on a continuous loop on my way to my property.

[@ArmyJames]

Do you have any peer-reviewed research to back up that claim?

[@hungadunga523]

This is a the ultimate bluegrass supergroup! Even if it's just for one song, it was a blessing to us all.

[@dennistate5953]

Amen and hear here!

[@yvonnemendez3075]

Yes luv those banjos❤

[@carolgaines4946]

Who all were playing?

[@cameronriviere]

Albert Lee on the red electric guitar. The other electric, Vince Gill. Other banjo, on the far left, Steve Martin. Piano: Paul Shaffer. Keyboard: Leon Russell. Dobro: Jerry Douglas. Mandolin: I forget his name; a popular country musician. I don’t know who the bassist and drummer are. I think the violin, harmonica, and acoustic guitar might be sons of Earl Scruggs.

[@MisterWensleydale]

@@cameronriviere To finish out the lineup: Mandolin: Marty Stuart, Bass: Glenn Worf, Drums: Harry Stinson, Fiddle: Glen Duncan, Harmonica: Gary Scruggs, Acoustic Guitar: Randy Scruggs.

[@xPaulxPhoenixx]

To be playing banjo as “friend” to earl Scruggs is such a daunting task, you can even see the relief on Steve Martins face after his solo wraps

[@stevepalpatine2828]

Steve Martin ain't no slouch on the banjo himself.

[@michaelclark9762]

​@@stevepalpatine2828No, he isn't. But he ain't no Earl, either. No one else is. (All apologies to Tony & Bela, but y'all ain't Earl.)

[@stevepalpatine2828]

@@michaelclark9762 Naw Earl is a legend. Guy pick a Banjo like he borrowed Gods fingers.

[@michaelclark9762]

@@stevepalpatine2828 Please carefully read the preceding conversation again. "He" is referring to Steve Martin. As I said, Ain't no one that can play like Earl.

[@javichuelas]

"They didn't start chasing us until you turned on that getaway music!"

[@krazykkarl]

"Think about me when you're having the best sex of your life"

[@albertovasile3966]

I think the reason why half of us came here is that Homer's quote 😂

[@pointman6778]

wait what are y'all talking about ahahhahahaha. I need to see this

[@yvonnemendez3075]

Wow look out here comes Bonnie and Clyde lol

[@javigurrol4451]

This KZbin comments is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. Kudos!

[@zuzannawisniewska4464]

If you're still listening to this, you're not alone and I love you! I love bluegrass music. What a talented group of musicians. Legends. .... from Fort Worth, Texas

[@cindy844]

Sending love back from North Carolina ❤️

[@kevinlehde2650]

Albert Lee is at once the most anonymous musician in the world, while being the greatest guitarist in the world. Always a session player, never a leader. And he absolutely shreds everything he touches.

[@tomaco7310]

i'm a guitarist, but not a country guy. I wouldn't recognize him on the street, but the second he started playing I thought "is that him?". My dad would say that's the best of both worlds. Playing, creating, and get to go to the grocery store without being bothered.

[@SMPMS8389]

He's phenomenal

[@stinkymonkey4491]

I’m pretty sure I bought a chest freezer from him once

[@jefftappan3091]

He's in a Carlene Carter video " I fell in love " .

[@anthonybalistreri5226]

And was a member of Emmylou's Hot Band

[@Firehydrant1051]

It is so heartwarming to see men, who are legends in their own right, paying homage to the man who paved the way.

[@polyscroll]

Love your comment1

[@juliearmenta4841]

Grew up listening to Blue Grass, my father and mother played. Lester and Earl were great. Bill Monroe was one of my all time favorites.

[@Baddawg_313]

Who is that?

[@philtll]

​@@Baddawg_313who is who, the man who paved the way? Earl Scruggs. The guy sitting down in the middle that they are all looking at with like worshipful eyes.

[@Baddawg_313]

@@philtll mmmmkay

[@Rio-k6f]

I wish I could be as happy about anything as Paul Schaefer is when he's playing the piano.

[@nestorvelasquez9633]

It's funny seeing Paul Schaefer so energetic while Leon Russell is just playing there, so calm

[@brendabernstein286]

Truth

[@chazmann108]

paul is looking like nirvana is upon him

[@goatboy150]

He nailed his part, too.

[@SpaceSkeletonDragon]

@@nestorvelasquez9633 You both mean Paul Shaffer. Googling Paul Schaefer brings up Nazi war criminal and child rapist Paul Shäfer as the first result. I wish I was joking.

[@LunaTheWitch22]

Everytime i see this i always smile, just a bunch of dudes absolutely vibing together

[@gailwebb9619]

I sometimes forget what a talented musician Steve Martin is until I see him here, playing that banjo! This is a great rendition of this classic bluegrass song!

[@peterfangiullo2064]

I love the relieved look he has after his solo

[@samsignorelli]

Foggy Mountain was part of his routine back in his standup heyday,

[@fenrislegacy]

Talented is an understatement, Steve is one of the top banjo players.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKqrmqOCaZqjra8

[@susiewatkins1775]

He certainly has put his many great talents to use throughout his career. @@fenrislegacy

[@andrewfromtno]

Foggy Mountain Breakdown," with Scruggs's sons Randy on acoustic guitar and Gary on Harmonica, and a stellar group that included Vince Gill and Albert lee on electric guitar, Marty Stewart on mandolin, Glen Duncan on fiddle, Jerry Douglas on Dobro, Glenn Wolf on bass, Harry Stinson on drums, Leon Russell on organ and Paul Shaffer on piano. For those debating Martin's inclusion, want to rethink. He is a better banjo player than 95% of all banjo pickers. He even personally fund an award in the field of banjo and/or bluegrass music. He is straight up legitimate.

[@MarylandBear1]

I've heard it said that, if Martin had his druthers, he'd be known as "that great banjo player, and hey, did you know he's funny, too?"

[@kevincleary7808]

Andrew Rodgers , you left off Steve Martin

[@dday7777]

When he first performed stand up comedy he most always had his Banjo on stage with him If not carrying and playing it in his act. He is a top most Banjoist.

[@johnwaddell1411]

He's been doing it for a long time..

[@geoffchappell2184]

@@kevincleary7808 No he didn't. Click on the show more link. Martin has his own paragraph. Paul Shaffer doesn't belong in the group.

[@djcfrompt]

This here's Earl, Gene, Randy, and over on the keys we have Gandalf

[@pattybarnes6988]

Is that Leon Redbone?

[@sardonicus76]

Patty Barnes You’re halfway there. That’s the late, great Leon Russell.

[@deusexaethera]

No, silly, that's Disney's Merlin from the end of the movie when he was vacationing in Bermuda.

[@duaneberry3298]

Stranger in a Strange Land

[@joseperaza3012]

Jajajaja que risa no entiendo mucho el inglés pero como me rei jajajjajajaj

[@charsbob]

I have never heard a better version of Foggy Mountain Breakdown, and the people doing it look like they knew this was the best one that ever was.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I'd say so!

[@Steve-cs8nd]

The original 49 version is still pretty hard to beat too. Earl had to dry his head with a light globe heater he made as they were all using calf skin heads still then, and he also always destined his banjo and removed the bridge before casing his axe and in those days before Gotoh planetary machines that stay in tune and are 14 to 1 on the 5th, it took him 40 minutes to get the banjo all soughted and intoned again. Old Earl never did anything by half measures. Even his banjo tutor was also a Luthier's manual Banjo History book and Flint hill of the 30s and tour Biography lol he even had a section on how to make his D tuners God luv him. I think I’ll end up buying Keith’s or one of those new no hole drilling clip on pairs for 3 bennies but you never know. It’s handy knowing how to knock out a pair of home made D tuning cams! The point being though, that’s some “ Tune a day for Banjo” book there Earl bless your soul. Has any one else seen the Martha White show version of Groundspeed ( I think the second time they had used it) and Earl starts waving his left hand around in the air when he’s on the G chord and sets of the whole band and announcers laughing. Extra funny as he was usually so laid back and quietly tongue in cheek you'd never expect it. They are GEMs those Old Opry shows.

[@JamesWilson-vr3ql]

I just love Steve Martin's sigh of relief when he finished his solo. He's playing with the gods and damn well knows it!

[@skipdow3]

Watch him play the same with the same, on Letterman. To be asked to do that shows they don't want any of martins' comedy , just the man showing what a professional playing of the banjo looks like.

[@markmcguire9770]

steve martin has been playing banjo since 1978, so he can hold his own with the best

[@curbmassa]

@@markmcguire9770 First time I saw him on TV back around then he was playing banjo with a fake arrow through his head. Shoulda done it here. No, not really.

[@chasein7019]

He wasn't even in the room in this video

[@JamesWilson-vr3ql]

@@chasein7019 Still. He knows.

[@kingfish4242]

pure f'ing genius. I don't care if you are a metalhead like me. If you can't respect this, you are hopeless

[@mikefox2379]

Exactly my friend!

[@commodoresixfour7478]

HA, I purchased my first banjo from a metal head. And that was because he had a better one!

[@RebelionDNA]

They all have my respect!

[@danieldekok6949]

And they respect EACH OTHER'S work--otherwise this becomes just another "I can play this faster than you" moment

[@ExSkyCyclePilot]

I'm a classical nut and I love this. This guys are damned good. Makes me never want to play another instrument as long as I live.

[@texasamericanpatriot8535]

This should be in a national archive! Amazing!

[@shinyshinyyshinyyy2197]

I’ve never seen a group have so much fun before. They’re all VIBING, especially the pianist he’s having a blast. They love the music and creating it with each other, it’s definitely no wonder that it’s “& Friends”

[@VioletJoy]

He is INTO it. 😂 That's Paul Shaffer. He was the band leader on The Letterman Show for many years and was always this enthusiastic.

[@TerpsichoreanSelenophile]

​@@VioletJoyPaul Shaffer was always such a goober! An incredible musician, though. Watching this on Fathers Day in memory of my dad, a big Grand Old Opry and Earl Scruggs fan.

[@doveman56]

Good, ain't it?

[@VioletJoy]

@@TerpsichoreanSelenophile LOL. But he was sure enjoying himself.

[@rkoonce53]

Leon is minding his own business back there😊

[@DWNHLLR13]

I dare say we may never see a gathering of such legendary musical talent on one stage again.

[@philsmith2444]

Yep, this is like The Traveling Wilburys on steroids.

[@legendary6790]

Paul Shaffer is straight vibing here

[@krevo81]

lmao always is

[@lauranyman207]

I know 😆 I verbalized "he is ALL the way in"

[@wjrasmussen666]

Wow, that keyboard is on fire.

[@b3j8]

I like how Leon Russell is just playin and chillin back there while Paul Schaefer is jumpin all over the place!

[@Pashasmom1]

@@b3j8 Everyone interprets and plays music in their own special and wonderful way.

[@Y2KMosh]

I drive a 68’ Shelby Mustang and this is what I put on the radio every time I go somewhere.

[@aleciapacheco5338]

You must have been doing 120mph every where you went! 🤠

[@NottheWebb]

Fantastic car (my brother owned a '67 fastback), but with this song you really need a Ford De luxe Coup, 1932-34 vintage to really do it justice.

[@rayseva1278]

I'm not really into country music. But I really like bluegrass...and am a HUGE Vince Gill fan. The man is criminally underrated: A killer guitarist...AND possessor of an equally-killer voice.

[@alessandromirandola2412]

Doctor: "You have just five minutes to live" *Me putting on this video"

[@woodiethompson526]

Probably some of the best stringed instrument players in the world at the time in that room !

[@donreed]

No matter where you go, there he is, that ass-kissing, obnoxious Paul Schaeffer. Oh Lord the man is an ass.

[@ferahcankaya]

Woodie thompspn totally agree with you and yet there are some idiots who disliked this video.. shame!

[@woodiethompson526]

@@ferahcankaya yeah I know Therese, there is no accounting for taste !

[@glorygloryholeallelujah]

Therese C - the people that hit the dislike button are clearly dead inside. Its either that, or a slutty home wrecking banjo seduced their mothers and destroyed their family when they were young...

[@jubalcalif9100]

You speak the truth, Kemo Sabe !!

[@stevekunde1117]

Very few, if any, of what passes as “country” artists now days could even keep up.

[@Chads6Strings]

Nashville doesn't need anyone with real talent, and it shows.

[@Walkeranz]

@@Chads6Strings I grew up around the music business in Nashville and your statement brought tears to my eyes. Cuz it's true, and sad as hell

[@davids7692]

There are different types of country just like any type of music. Relax and go listen to the one that brings YOU joy. Who cares what others listen to for THEIR joy?

[@philgray1023]

@@Chads6Strings I wish what you said was crap, but unfortunately you're probably not wrong.

[@hipfilms]

You got that right......

[@johnreynoldsjr4157]

SIMPLY THE ABSOLUTE GREATEST ensemble of top notch musicians playing a most enjoyable bluegrass standard! I actually got a tad emotional watching it.

[@3Doorsdownfan]

You are NOT alone there buddy!!! TRUST ME! 😁😉

[@tylerbrandon460]

And on the 7th day God said "Let there be bluegrass." And it was good.

[@lyncaho4507]

Amen 👵💖🙏👍

[@tylerbrandon7610]

And Amen

[@rhondaboncutter5812]

@@tylerbrandon7610 Amen!

[@dukeofearlbanjo]

It was finished. Amen!

[@georgiannaw5891]

And it was good my child.

[@peterbaskind9872]

I suppose I could gush about how amazing this is... But when you get the best players IN THE WORLD playing for the fun of it, this is what happens.

[@carolbaker2193]

...got my clogging shoes on...let's dance!

[@Tobb3]

3:57 When you get water in your ear after swimming.

[@hashslingingslasher4215]

😂😂😂

[@caderamsey8878]

Relatable

[@natalianarriaza]

LMAOOOO

[@kurtdewittphoto]

lol I just made the same comment for 0:34. Yours is a better shot lol

[@michaelwilliams4702]

Love you Earl Scruggs.

[@kristoffscuba5466]

Albert lees solo is like something from another planet. Absolutely shreds. If I hear it a million times I still won’t be tired of it.

[@jefftheschauer1]

I can never get tired of Albert Lee

[@telecatsermaster]

Amen

[@wheatonna]

When I heard Vince Gill's solo, I thought "Uh oh, poor Albert." So wrong.

[@bravevoice2771]

Talk about "a gathering of eagles". You can tell they are honored to be in each other's presence, each artist smiling from ear to ear in shear bliss.

[@bernisweltredsun1245]

I love the United States! Long live the US! Greetings and much respect from Germany! Btw Steve Martin is beyond coolness!

[@gregoryfrie8024]

Dunka

[@thomasmartinscott]

Hello to you, too! I was stationed in Bitburg, Germany from '78 to '81. I LOVED IT!!! Some of my Absolute FAVORITE memories are during that time. 5 other guys and I put together The Bitburg Bluegrass Band, and won the USAF Worldwide Talent Contest in 1980.

[@smokeypotter5876]

Come visit brother 😀

[@rhondaboncutter5812]

Come visit, country music is everywhere! Love it! How I grew up, 65 now and would not change a thing!

[@billylatham9878]

From Texas to you. Howdy

[@Idontknowmaybejohnsmith]

These guys all nailed it on their solos. Each one is spot on.

[@drakehonest2]

Hello how are you doing today…?

[@Campingcam]

Little known piece of trivia: There were numerous fire extinguishers placed just out of shot in case any of their instruments burst into flames

[@commodoresixfour7478]

I'm surprised the amplifiers could handle it. Must be tube amps.

[@rhondaboncutter5812]

LOL I reckon would need to be! Oh how I love this!

[@janicefox2577]

Rhonda Boncutter They are already on fire! Love it!

[@larrygreen8912]

Campingcam and not a single one of them was holding their crotch .

[@markrogers6833]

Ha ha right on my my my and Earl Scruggs the master shows them hr is still the man WOW

[@conrox400]

“Looks like those Duke boys are in a peck of trouble”

[@yvonnemendez3075]

Hee haw

[@bustyrandit]

HOT PURSUIT !!! I LOVE IT !! I LOVE IT !! Kee kee !!😁

[@mattrichey9501]

Geu g g g them Duke boy's!! Roscoe p. Coletrain

[@p.a.d.trueamericanpatriot2792]

@@mattrichey9501 😅

[@squigmo1]

If you can watch this and not smile, you’re dead inside 😀

[@endthefed5304]

why do i tear up when i watch this!?

[@pineapplepenguin9901]

Love this video. Just a bunch of pals making some sick music. It's very awesome.

[@nancyabsalon9436]

I mean, it's true but Hey!

[@jodywatkins9467]

Is this guy dead? 3:49

[@GTmino]

@@jodywatkins9467 his name is Leon Russell, he die in 2016

[@user-jd9ve4ky8g]

Steve Martin, your talent keeps up with legends. I never knew 😢

[@Anna-sx7if]

earl Scruggs is my great grandpa and I play banjo!

[@PiDev]

+Anna Ashley That's awesome. Keep on picking!

[@ThatBaseballGuy13]

And Obama is my mother in law

[@trumppetition9384]

+Anna Ashley earl scruggs is your great grandpa?? If that's true, then that's awesome!!!! He's the father of all 3 finger picking

[@Belchmaster41]

+Gaydolf Shitler I bet this piece stays in the G key (open)

[@missymiller6454]

😍

[@debrakish9659]

I never tire of watching this.

[@ryanquick94]

same here

[@jvillalobos9795]

Makes glad to be alive chum

[@someguy5035]

I come by once or twice a week.

[@jettcarlburg356]

This is probably my favorite performance of "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" ever!!!!! Earl Scruggs. Leon Russell. Vince Gill. Marty Stuart. Paul Schaffer. Steve Martin.

[@Teamhlm52]

Jett Carlburg a

[@davidwoods8982]

There will never be another recording like this one…. Ever! Every player was a master in his craft! Magnificent!

[@charlesruffing5606]

Having Leon Russell on Keyboard was great! So lucky to have in on this not long before he passed away. What a great video!

[@willisallen205]

This was done in 2001. Leon did not pass away until 2014.

[@gaoutlaw]

I hope Randy, Earl and Leon are having a big ol jam session in heaven.

[@atomicbuttocks]

*sadly yehaws*

[@bobbeck2743]

Earl Scruggs? Never will his talent be equaled, never mind beaten.

[@klcwarchitect]

Bob Beck Bela Fleck is right up there but Earl Scruggs will always be my hero.

[@lesheathjr4494]

Never in the bluegrass world anyway

[@danarockman2668]

I agree l grew up listening to him , 💪....

[@michellewilcox5882]

This right here is truly FEEL GOOD music!!! Earl Scruggs is the absolute KING of the banjo!! There's an ENOURMOUS amount of talent in this video!! I'm so glad this was caught on film!! This should be in the national archives!!! This is an American treasure without a DOUBT!!!

[@stevenscalici3470]

How magnanimous was Scruggs to allocate ample time to each and every musician to showcase each one’s unique instrumental talents. My fav was the harmonica at 2:12. Hell every time I watch this, I have to watch it many times just to watch the nimble fingers move like they all have little brains in them!

[@teastrainer3604]

That's Earl's son Gary. His son Randy, who passed away recently, played acoustic guitar.

[@JFairweather]

Well, he had been playing that tune since 1947. He was plenty used to everyone else having a shot at it.

[@lukepotosky7710]

My favourite part is the mandolin solo, which starts at 2:00.

[@jimwilson7364]

Thst is bluegrass music. On instrumentals or with vocals each instrument gets a solo. Always been that way

[@ClassicTVMan1981X]

@@teastrainer3604 Randy was the one who did the acoustic solo on Rosanne Cash's version of "Tennessee Flat Top Box."

[@konwin97]

I’m a hard rock and heavy metal guy, but there is so much totally incredible talent here!! I love this so much!!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Bluegrass is awesome! I used to mostly be a rock musician but I've switched to bluegrass!

[@ArtysMorgan]

Bluegrass is the heavy metal of country!

[@donaldschmidt2990]

WHAT A JAM SESSION!! Has there ever been a better instrumental than Foggy Mountain Breakdown? Just a group of guys having a blast and collaborating beautifully.

[@richardstill8689]

what I love is Steve Martin in the background, he not the main, he just there chillin that what makes a star

[@michaelclark9762]

And yet Steve plays a near perfect rendition of the original banjo solo from Flatt & Scruggs 1959 original version, which someone had to quote, freeing up everyone else to embellish in different directions.

[@atlassolid5946]

I love how everybody (even Harry Stinson) has gotten love from the comment section but nobody yet has mentioned that awesome bass player, Glenn Worf. He killed it in this song, props to him.

[@hungadunga523]

Stinson and Worf were working just as hard as the soloists. To maintain the beat that steady, that fast, and that long - well, all I can say is Saaa-LUTE!

[@Nantosuelta]

Earl, you're legacy will live on forever. The granddaddy of bluegrass banjo. All us banjo players owe you a tremendous debt.

[@commodoresixfour7478]

I've seen this video thousands of times and I will watch it a thousand more!

[@commodoresixfour7478]

How many times did Earl play this song? I bet he never got tired or board from this bread and butter song. "Come on Earl, take my money and play it again and when you're done please teach me!!!".

[@skipdow3]

I guess I'll get into trouble, but there is essentially the same thing on a You Tube Letterman show.

[@commodoresixfour7478]

I'm still here Earl, still listening to it, still wishing you were still here.

[@nfindc]

I grew up on bluegrass, and everytime I heard Foggy Mountain Breakdown I would stop what I was doing and just listen to the excellent musicianship. This, of course, is no different. But, my God, just look at the musical juggernauts that slay on this track!!

[@VinnyMartello]

Know something? I think the reason people are so passionate about music like this because of what it doesn’t do. It doesn’t tell some edgy story or deep philosophical parable. It doesn’t try to be cool or hip. It does show pretense. It just is. And ALL it is is pure joy. Pure, unfiltered, natural, joy.

[@blackknightsgaming8727]

Cheers I drink to that

[@comfortablynumb7265]

@@blackknightsgaming8727 me Too!! 😊

[@Nighthawkinlight]

If only they could have made the camera work more distracting. I guess the laws of the universe only allow so much.

[@Krivulda]

NightHawkInLight Look up Banjo z mlžných hor. It's made by czech most famous band, and it is awesome too.

[@LGbaSS-bi2ml]

wow, big fan of you. what are you doing here!?

[@acrabb]

+NightHawkInLight It's like that person who just discovered PowerPoint and is determined to use every single transition.

[@Leofred2000]

+NightHawkInLight Who cares about the camera when music is this good?

[@trumppetition9384]

+NightHawkInLight What really distracts me is people playing bluegrass and smiling and pulling off the stage presence of a cheesy rock concert. That's one of the many things that don't mix with bluegrass. Other things include piano and electric guitar. But the cheesy smiles… straight faced musicians without all the bullshit is one of the reasons I like bluegrass!

[@johnreynolds8293]

Now there is a boat load of talent in that room!!

[@tunasand31ch]

この上なく素晴らしい演奏です！！演奏している皆さんが心から楽しそうに演奏されている事が何よりも素敵です。

[@flashwashington2735]

幸せな子供たちが遊ぶように、彼らは遊んで微笑みます。耳よりも目で音楽を楽しんで、聴いてニヤニヤしてみましょう。神のお恵みがありますように。 They play and smile like happy children play. Enjoy music with your eyes rather than your ears, and smile while listening. god bless you.

[@marthabixler1606]

Earl Scruggs is probably the coolest person that ever lived

[@identitydixie1061]

always will be

[@luvb4ugo]

Martha Bixler I had the pleasure of seeing him in Austin tex, in About 71 with his buddy, but unfortunately I did not know who he was, o well , great music, can't stop watching it. And it was good. Well said.

[@campbellfiles9019]

I got his autograph he said " I can't shake hands it would damage my playing "

[@thomasfarmer1730]

Way cooler (and intelligent) than any crap rap artist.

[@kookokoe]

that’s a very high compliment

[@greatestever184]

My grandpa used to be able to do this on banjo before arthritis took hold. He's 83--man is a beast.

[@burningisis]

So did my grandpa. At 90 was still able to pick that banjo. At 40 years old, its my turn to pick up his old banjo and learn to play myself.

[@V8freaks]

@@burningisis How is it going?

[@donrutter6765]

History was made on this one. An all star cast played that day.

[@JohnUSA7]

Magic like this song happens when a bunch of super talented musicians get together and start jamming. Just amazingly enjoyable music.

[@shanermann2252]

one day i hope to be as happy as paul is when he is playing the piano

[@johnjacobs5683]

An amazing collection of instruments that modern country has abandoned

[@marshmallowbudgie]

John Jacobs it's not Country, it's Opry Pop!

[@scottgoodson5132]

Wrong! It’s Bluegrass dude!

[@0123-q2p]

scott goodson THANK YOU

[@doittoit4116]

John Jacobs there's no such thing as modern country, I believe what your referring to is called "New Nshville noise" also known as "cookie cutter country" or just by it's more common name, dog shit!

[@dougdavis8986]

John Jacobs : modern country isn't country. It's pop rock with lame lyrics about your gf leaving, the truck breaking down etc. It sucks

[@garrick7076]

That is so cool to see Steve Martin jammin up there..

[@RobFraxedas]

I’d just like to say that I’ve been a drummer for 35 years, and I was amazed to hear Earl’s flawlessly metronomic playing. A computer couldn’t be more precise.

[@JCWTFYT]

An amazing and timeless performance made two years before Earl's passing (2012). A true pioneer in a lot of ways, hats off to ya, Earl, we miss you to this day. Thanks

[@kit1951]

one of the BEST all time hits, never get tired of it!

[@ronmcvey5361]

Wow! Just wow! I loved how Paul Shafer looked like he was having the time of his life playing outside of his genre! All these guys were great This is coming from a hard rock fan!

[@farmerbill6855]

Outside of his genre? What are you talking about? Primarily a session musician, as the musical director for Letterman's Late Show, he played with nearly every musical guest to come on the show. The man is a musical genius.

[@scottrackley4457]

Look up when he was playing with Chuck Berry, he was living it up there too

[@EricBBarker]

Shaffer doesn't really have a genre. If anything its Blues, RnB and Boogie, but not that far from bluegrass when it comes to piano. He started as a top-40 session player and played everything. SNL, Letterman, he played with everyone... not just because he could, but he knew EVERYONE. He was the one who put the Blues Brothers together with all those greats, after all. I bet he could hook up a Norwegian Black Metal band to a String Band if he was so inclined!

[@lauramalek3128]

OMG. Sitting here, fall afternoon 2021 watching Bonnie and Clyde on TV, I hear that tune as a backdrop to a chase scene and IMMEDIATELY think "FOGGY MOUNTAIN BREAKDOWN"???! So I come to KZbin to see if that might be right, and see of course that's the tune! CUH-LAS-SIC!!!

[@doyleperkins4916]

When I was a little boy growing up in West Texas, this Kentucky Blue Grass classic, a favorite of mine, literally brought tears to my eyes...And it still does. How I love FOGGY MOUNTAIN BREAKDOWN!

[@Erling01]

I want this song to be played at my funeral.

[@319shiggins]

terry fader

[@brandonwalker9245]

same

[@brandonwalker9245]

same

[@Mikevdog]

+Erling Kristiansen yes

[@tomn7287]

+Erling Kristiansen For me: Charlie Daniels Band Orange Blossom Special

[@rhondaboncutter5812]

I grew up where everyone carried their instruments in their car! We lived in Ky. we had so much fun dancing and singing! Music always in my soul!

[@rhondaboncutter5812]

This music was so much fun! I never even knew I was so poor! Music was my life!

[@randybaykey913]

One of those timeless songs that stays cool from one generation to the next

[@michaelscalise7195]

I LOVE THIS! In 2010 some guy said, "Hey, let's get all these awesome musicians together to pick with Earl Scruggs". The man was a genius.

[@onlyme114]

Dang what a room full of talent ! Steve Martin doesn't get the credit he deserves as a musician and the guy playing that dobro nailed it !

[@moonpiespotlight4759]

Shirley D That virtuoso playing the dobro is Jerry Douglas from Union Station. He always nails it.

[@kenthanos]

Yeah I've seen him play on the travis smiley show back years ago.WOW!

[@dougrogillio2223]

Playing Banjo is all the credit he needs. At least his mouth is shut.

[@annacronism]

Shirley D, the Dobro guy is Jerry Douglas. ☺️

[@jacquesblaque7728]

Jerry Douglas happens to be an all-around musical genius, and one helluva nice guy. "The guy playing that dobro" indeed!

[@BigSmOkE.in.321]

This brought tears to my eyes🥺i used to listen to my grandaddy play this on the Banjo and fiddle and im talking lick for lick, he nailed it...i Miss him so much😭

[@rlivo055]

Beats any 2021 modern pop song. This piece straight up amazes me! The fact the tempo is that fast and the song flows this smoothly baffles me. This song will go down in history…

[@agramsci]

This is the coolest thing I have ever seen.

[@leonmaliniak]

Wow Steve Martin really held up his end with great virtuosity

[@skipdow3]

I was amazed when he began performing with the banjo. I kept waiting for that arrow through the head deal, and it never came. For what it's worth, that instrument he's playing, is not an easy instrument to play.

[@howardsmith9342]

Steve Martin has been a world class banjo player for years. On the old Glen Campbell TV show, Steve was the banjo player in the band.

[@marycage5214]

Martin used the banjo as a prop in his early comedy days. He credits Earl Scruggs with inspiring him to learn the instrument.

[@richiej7209]

Steve's a class act. Great guy & great player. Would think he told them I'll hang back and play. Leave it to the pros to b front and center as deserved.

[@PHJimY]

Howard Smith, While Steve may have played the banjo on Glen's show, but John Hartford and Larry McNeely were the two best known Glen Campbell Show banjo players.

[@jonathanfreedom1st]

A fitting super pack of musical brilliance near the end of a musical geniuses Life. Earl will never be far away with this superb Bluegrass hit of the ages. Long live all the excellent musical talent that joined him in this rendition. ❤

[@James-pq3qq]

My favorite musical composition as a little boy growing up in West Texas near Amarillo. After 11, we moved to California...STILL ONE OF MY ALL TIME FAVORITES

[@joepilot-jones9634]

Never seen a group of world class musicians having so much fun together!

[@doveman56]

Ain't it the truth

[@3acharyy87]

Albert Lee gets me everytime..the man is a beast of a guitar player

[@bugspit.2977]

Zachary Kelley Yeah he's a rock star.....kinda. ..

[@fukhue8226]

He is the Double Stop king and between him and Ray Flake they molded the modern Nashville Rockabilly Guitar style. I'm sure Brent Mason would give these guys lot's of credit for opening up the door for Hick Rock on Country Radio and starting a whole new style of Hot Country Pickin.

[@TedSeay]

Saw Albert and Vince Gill in Melbourne, Australia at a little comedy venue. A-may-zing.

[@TheWaxxman99]

I've been part of a lot of jam sessions like this one....obviously not with this kind of talent or caliber of musicianship....but nonetheless they were lots of fun. One of the things I came to learn over the years is the respect that seasoned musicians show to each other and to the less experienced guys. We all started somewhere. The less experienced guys try to steal the show a lot of the time....but they learn eventually. One of the things I noticed in this video is that everybody got a turn and the other guys bowed out to let them have the spotlight for their ride. I understand that this video is staged but it really reminded me of the jam sessions I went to when I was a kid and the things I noticed the old timers would do. Lots of fun!!!

[@ezandman6804]

Dude this shit is staged as you already stated. A good editor is able to put you in as well. These seasoned musicians you speak of apparantly went a long with that. And that is crappy, and you know it. At least your jams were real.

[@hrbricker]

I was pleased to know a small group in High School. Ronnie Unger Trumpet, Ronnie Hamilton Piano and Billy Nkcks Drums. They played my Junior Prom. Nobody danced until they took a break and put records on, They each did runs of their own backed up by the others . They were concert quality, but could jam with the best. South Bend, In, 1953.

[@gtnsteve1]

When you watch good professional bands, they all (seem to) respect each other and give each other the floor. Everybody gets a chance to be in the limelight. I missed the bass player's turn in this tune - probably just blinked once too often.

[@dannycurtis2591]

Chris Raymer. I've noticed Bluegrass seems especially like. Great music, lotta respect.

[@rhondazuckerman4539]

@Chris Raymer: "everybody got a turn and the other guys bowed out to let them have the spotlight for their ride" is known as taking a 'break'. It is standard in bluegrass music. Nothing special about it here with these stellar performers. Each (or most, depending on the song and band) player gets a chance to have a mini-solo within the song. A bluegrass 'jam band' might have each player take several breaks within a song, especially if there are guest players joining in. A typical song might have each player just do the melody on his/her break, while a band with guest players and multiple breaks for each will have the players do a lot of improvisation during their breaks--similar to a jazz band's improv during a tune. See for example kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWPMkGRmfaZgpZI .

[@BK-jy3yt]

They were just missing Roy Clark.

[@joedanger9439]

And Ricky Skaggs

[@nomandad2000]

I keep forgetting Roy Clark is no longer with us....damn that sucks

[@adonian]

And jerry reed

[@GuitarSlinger2112]

And now I'm sad...

[@SueProv]

@@GuitarSlinger2112 It is sad but also so joyful . We have this to enjoy.

[@shantyirish7564]

Sometime in life your get to stumble upon a beauty like this. I feel so blessed. Wow.

[@williegibney]

Brilliant playing

[@toddbryant2714]

I just finished watching this video, and I am overwhelmed with joy

[@Mbartel500]

The amount of talent in that jam session is incredible…what an amazing performance😱😱😱

[@stephaniel3139]

I love how they are all having such an awesome time - and how they are obviously honored to play with him!

[@drakehonest2]

Hey 👋

[@rebekahbrown4052]

This song always makes me feel like it’s flying so fast it’s going to break apart and then there’s earl.....steady on

[@davescott780]

One of the best versions I have ever heard of this song. Damn these guys kick ass together. All that's needed now is a cold beer.

[@wrenchingearhead85]

Woke up this morning in a Bluegrass mood. No better way to start the day than with some Scruggs! 🥰🥰🥰

[@Al-jb5dw]

Just incredible!

[@tedhunter6983]

What do legends talk about when they get together??? YOU JUST HEARD IT!!!!!!