Travis Watts & Mountain Blessings is a high-energy, hard-driving bluegrass band that captivates with its dynamic harmonies and lightning-fast picking. This group originates from the historic town of Mount Airy, and they are deeply rooted in the Appalachian tradition but add their own unique flavor to the music. With a deep love for the genre, they breathe new life into classic songs from the past, while seamlessly incorporating fresh bluegrass sounds and original compositions.
The band and its members have earned multiple first-place awards in both individual and band competitions, a testament to their talent, dedication, and musicianship. Their performances are not only a celebration of timeless Appalachian roots but also of their award-winning, innovative approach—ensuring an unforgettable experience for audiences everywhere.
Bios
Travis Watts
Banjo, Guitar, Vocals
Travis Watts is the leader of Mountain Blessings. He first fell in love with bluegrass music when he was 3 years old at a Lewis Family concert. He fell in love with the banjo by watching the world renowned banjoist Little Roy Lewis picking the five string and dancing around on stage and putting on a show. His mother bought him his first banjo at the age of 8 for Christmas and he started taking lessons shortly after that. Since then he has picked up various other instruments such as the Fiddle, Guitar, Mandolin and Bass. He has had amazing opportunities to share the stage for a couple tunes with artist such as Bryan Sutton, Doug Dillard, Carson Peters, Hunter Berry and many more. Since he has begun playing banjo he has taken home various awards in many big competitions such as taking home 1st place at the 2024 Galax Fiddlers Convention, and first place at the Allegheny Fiddlers Convention! Travis’ biggest inspirations would be J.D. Crowe, Craig Smith, Earle Scruggs, Doug Dillard, Sammy Shelor and Little Roy Lewis. Travis has been blessed to play many different venues such as the Earle Theater in Mount Airy, Sunset Theater in Asheboro, Meadowgreen Appalacian Park in Kentucky and Bills Pickin Parlor in South Carolina!
Justin Jones
Guitar, Lead Vocals, Tenor Vocals
Justin has been the lead vocalist and guitarist for Mountain Blessings since 2023, bringing his passion for bluegrass, country, and gospel music to audiences far and wide. A native of Austinville, VA, he has spent over 15 years honing his craft, deeply rooted in the rich musical traditions of his family, where playing guitar and singing were a way of life.
Over the years, Justin has studied under some of the finest guitarists in the genre, including Bryan Sutton, Chris Eldridge, Jake Workman, and Josh Pickett. His dedication to the instrument has earned him top placements in multiple guitar competitions across the Eastern United States. In 2024 & 2025, he attended Bryan Sutton’s prestigious Guitar Camp, where he had the honor of sharing the stage with legendary musicians Bryan Sutton, Jake Workman, Chris Eldridge, and Billy Strings.
Known for his soulful, blues-infused guitar solos and soaring high-tenor vocals, Justin captivates audiences with his dynamic stage presence and heartfelt performances. Whether delivering a driving bluegrass tune or a smooth, emotive ballad, he consistently leaves a lasting impression on listeners wherever he performs.
Johnathan McHone
Dobro, Tenor Vocals
Johnathan McHone started his musical path by playing in church. He first took up the bass, laying a solid foundation for his understanding of rhythm and harmony. Every week was spent singing and playing the piano with his family.
The allure of the bluegrass sound soon beckoned, leading him to the banjo for many years before eventually picking up the dobro. Now, with a slide in hand, Johnathan weaves intricate melodies and soulful tones that captivate audiences. He draws inspiration from the legendary dobro masters, Jerry Douglas, Mike Auldridge, and Rob Ickes, meticulously studying their techniques and artistry. However, Johnathan isn’t content with mere imitation. He always strives to inject his own distinct style into every performance.
His talent has not gone unnoticed. Jonathan has proven his prowess in numerous competitions, consistently winning and placing in prestigious fiddler’s conventions throughout North Carolina and Virginia. Whether he’s delivering a blistering solo or providing the harmonic backdrop, Johnathan’s dobro playing adds a depth and richness to the band’s truly unforgettable sound.
Duane Hicks
Bass, Baritone Vocals
Duane comes from a rich musical heritage that spans three generations. He began playing bass at 12 and gradually expanded his talents to include guitar and piano. His musical journey began in a family bluegrass group with his parents, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion. At 18, Duane joined a church band and played southern gospel for more than two decades. Over the years, he explored a variety of genres, including country, blues, and contemporary Christian, but his heart has always returned to bluegrass.
With a musical career stretching over 45 years, Duane has built an impressive collection of basses, currently owning 10, including two rare 1941 Kay S-51 five-string models with serial numbers just 26 apart.
Duane is thrilled to bring his experience and deep love for bluegrass to Travis Watts & Mountain Blessings.
