In Memoriam
F. Warren Hellman
Jul 25, 1934 - Dec 18, 2011
Chris Hellman
Apr 18, 1933 - Feb 4, 2017
In Memoriam
F. Warren Hellman
Jul 25, 1934 - Dec 18, 2011
Chris Hellman
Apr 18, 1933 - Feb 4, 2017
Greg Wynn
Oct 1, 1969 - Mar 14, 2024
Nancy Hellman Bechtle
Dec 14, 1937 - Nov 3, 2021
We are devastated by the passing of our beloved Greg Wynn. Gregory “Greg” Wynn, age 54, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 14 , 2024 with his family and close friends by his side. For the past two years Greg fought cancer with determination, grace, and bravery. Greg was born in Sunnyvale and earned his bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University. Greg had a love of music since childhood, and after graduation, pursued a career in the music/entertainment industry. Greg began his career working in Artist Hospitality at Shoreline Amphitheater, where he thrived in the hectic backstage performance environment. From there, he proceeded to work for Bill Graham Presents, and the Great American Music Hall. Using his talents, he worked in the promotion department at KFOG radio station and was the Director of Business Development at SLO. Greg’s lifelong experience prepared him to become the Executive Producer for Genentech employee celebrations, and for the last 19+ years, he found his true home, working for Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, (HSB). Greg proudly assumed the role of Operations Producer of HSB, where he found a team of people, who became his chosen family. Greg was predeceased by his father, Tom Wynn and is survived by his loving mother, Nika Wynn, sister, Veronica Wynn (Marcel Duvekot), niece, Nina, and nephew, Matthew. Greg also leaves behind many close friends, all of whom have been instrumental in his life; he left an indelible mark on everyone and will forever be missed. The family would like to thank his friend and caregiver, Phillip Grogg, as well as the Hellman family, and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass staff, who were extremely supportive and generous in Greg’s battle with cancer.
It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of one of our own, Nancy Bechtle. Nancy was the younger sister of our founder, Warren Hellman, and a noted force for good in San Francisco for many years. Renowned for her work with the San Francisco Symphony, the Presidio Trust (and many other causes) and beloved by all of us, Nancy was a vital part of HSB, performing with the Go To Hell Man Band and also fronting her own band, Nancy and the Lambchops. Her passing will leave a hole in our lineup for all time. As we feel the sadness of her loss, we also feel deep gratitude and appreciation for Nancy and honor her memory.
Tony Rice
Jun 8, 1951 – Dec 25, 2020
Billy Joe Shaver
Aug 16, 1939 - Oct 28, 2020
Jerry Jeff Walker
Mar 16, 1942 - Oct 23, 2020
Justin Townes Earle
Jan 4, 1982 - Aug 23, 2020
So sorry to learn that bluegrass master Tony Rice has passed away. How well we recall 2004 and 2005, when the Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Quartet were with us at HSB and blew us all away with their great music. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
A sad farewell and much appreciation to Billy Joe Shaver, seen here on the Arrow Stage in 2009.
So sorry to learn that Jerry Jeff Walker (HSB 2008, 2010, 2012) has passed away. Thank you for all the songs and good times.
A beautiful soul, and a singular talent. We are devastated at the loss of our friend Justin Townes Earle. Deepest condolences to the entire Earle family. Rest easy Justin.
John Prine
Oct 10, 1946 - Apr 7, 2020
Adam Schlesinger
Oct 31, 1967 - Apr 1, 2020
John has been one of the perennial favorites at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. He was an amazing character and every staff member has a different story to share. As we compared notes today, we found ourselves laughing while holding back tears. This is a huge loss that we will be reeling from for a long time to come. It was difficult to pick just one song for our video tribute so we have several. We also recommend you view his full sets from 2014 and 2017 and share your memories.
A master pop-rock songwriter/performer, Adam performed with his band Fountains of Wayne at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2010. We share 2 songs from 2010 as we mourn his passing (Apr 1, 2020) to coronavirus.
David Olney
Mar 23, 1948 – Jan 18, 2020
Donnie Fritts
Nov 8, 1942 – Aug 27, 2019
David Olney was a strong presence at HSB, in 2004, 2007, and 2010, appearing as part of the “Songwriters Circle” all three years, and also with Sergio Webb in 2010. In the video below, we share 2 songs from 2010 as we mourn his passing.
We were sorry to hear of Donnie’s passing – he was a one-of-a-kind songwriter also known widely for his work with Kris Kristofferson. When he appeared at HSB in 2015, he came as part of Buddy Miller’s Cavalcade of Stars with John Paul White, who had just helped Donnie’s 2015 album.
Dr. John
Nov 20, 1941 - Jun 6, 2019
Roky Erickson
Jul 15, 1947 - May 31, 2019
We are truly saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. John. He was a singular talent, whose contributions will be felt through the ages. Rest well Night Tripper!
We are saddened to hear of the passing of psychedelic rock pioneer, Roky Erickson. We are honored that he was able to grace the Rooster Stage with his presence in 2018. Check out the link below to see his masterful set in it’s entirety. Thank you Roky. ❤️
Tony Joe White
Jul 23, 1943 - Oct 24, 2018
Charles Bradley
Nov 5, 1948 – Sep 23, 2017
Those who joined us at HSB15 were treated to a wonderful set by Tony Joe White, including this performance of “Rainy Night In Georgia.” We’re sorry to hear of his passing earlier this week.
Those who joined us at HSB15 were treated to a wonderful set by Tony Joe White, including this performance of “Rainy Night In Georgia.” We’re sorry to hear of his passing earlier this week.
Jimmy Lafave
Jul 12, 1955 – May 21, 2017
Sharon Jones
May 4, 1956 - Nov 18, 2016
Beloved Father, Husband, Brother; Private Equity Pioneer; Founder of San Francisco’s Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. “What does move me is the philanthropic stuff,” he told Forbes magazine in 2006. “Giving really does move me. Part of it is selfish. It’s fun to be appreciated. But the other part is that good things really are growing.” He called the bluegrass gathering a “selfish gift,” one that he, the musicians and the community could all enjoy. “How could you have more fun than that? What the hell is money for if it isn’t for something like that?” F. Warren Hellman Forbes, 2006
We are saddened to announce that Patricia Christina “Chris” Hellman – artist, ballerina, philanthropist and wife of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass founder Warren Hellman – passed away on Saturday, February 4th. Chris was a passionate supporter of the arts and that love came through in all aspects of her life. She was an avid painter and a tireless supporter of the San Francisco Ballet.
Ralph Stanley
Feb 25, 1927 – Jun 23, 2016
Guy Clark
Nov 6, 1941 - May 17, 2016
We’re so very sad to hear the news about Dr. Ralph Stanley. Such an incredible life. May he rest in peace.
We’re so very sad to hear the news about Dr. Ralph Stanley. Such an incredible life. May he rest in peace.
Merle Haggard
Apr 6, 1937 – Apr 6, 2016
Otis Clay
Feb 11, 1942 - Jan 8, 2016
On April 6, 2016 we lost another musical icon and member of the HSB family, Merle Haggard. This excerpt from the SF Weekly article after his appearance at HSB11 puts it well: “The Merle/Kris performance appeared to be the great unifier of all HSB attendees. The silver haired, elder cowboy-hat demographic, identified at performances by Robyn Hitchcock or Gillian Welch, danced like no one was watching. Aside them, younger fans in tight black jeans and denim jackets shared their flasks before eventually congregating in front of A.A. Bondy. Legends achieve this status because their music spans decades, defies genres and speaks to people across experiences or musical preferences.” Rest in peace, Merle.
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Otis Clay. His performance at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 11 was incredible, and we hope you’ll take a moment to watch him in action.
Claude Shade
1953 - 2015
Doc Watson
Mar 3, 1923 - May 29, 2012
When Warren first mentioned that someone from Goodby Silverstein was designing our inaugural Strictly Bluegrass poster we were surprised. We expected something more organic. Then we saw some of Claude’s work and understood. It was original, he embodied something very unique and it could only be expressed through his eyes. Claude designed every poster for the festival from 2001-2015. It was a process. Deadlines were not something he particularly addressed. We could stress all we wanted but in the end we were always blown away with his finished product. To say that he was a photographer does not do justice to his talent. He was a character; an artist without pretense. He was genuinely fun to be around, usually smiling at you while his eyes were illuminating elsewhere. It was how he viewed the world and how he shared his mindset with the rest of us. The void Claude left when he passed away last week won’t ever be filled. We are devastated to lose a friend and visionary who shared his passion with us. Claude was warm, funny, clever and irreverent. When I read Jeff Goodby describe him as “All Rick Moranis on the outside & Tom Waits on the inside” I smiled, he captured Claude’s spirit precisely. We were extremely fortunate to have Claude as a colleague and friend. His contributions to the festival will be with us always. – Sheri Sternberg & Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
We were extremely heartbroken to learn that one of the founding fathers of bluegrass, Doc Watson, has passed away. He was 89 years old. We have had the great honor of Doc gracing our stages in 2005, 2007, 2009 & 2010. Doc once said of his own father – “One day he brought a banjo to me and put it in my hand and said, ‘Son, I want you to learn how to play this thing real well…It might help you get through the world.'” Indeed. Rest in Peace Doc, and thank you for all you’ve done.
Website
Hazel Dickens
1935 - 2011
Odetta
Dec 31, 1930 - Dec 2, 2008
Days after a grand, emotional goodbye with his sold-out Songwriter Rendezvous at the Paramount Theatre last Thursday, Austin songwriter Jimmy LaFave died Sunday, confirmed his label Music Road Records. He was 61. – Austin Chronicle Our thoughts are with Jimmy LaFave’s family, friends & fans. Thank you for so many years of beautiful music. We will miss you.
Here’s a glimpse at just one song from an amazing set of music in the park that Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings gifted us with back in 2010. We shall miss Sharon and her energy, dedication and spirit.
From the first HSB (when it was still called Strictly Bluegrass) in 2001 all the way through 2010, it was an honor and a pleasure to have Hazel grace our stages. An incredible woman and an amazing voice. She will be sadly missed.
Those who joined us at HSB8 were treated to an incredible set by American singer, actress, guitarist, lyricist, and a civil and human rights activist Odetta. The highlight of her set included a heartstopping rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” that was the emotional center of that year’s performances.
Beloved Father, Husband, Brother; Private Equity Pioneer; Founder of San Francisco’s Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. “What does move me is the philanthropic stuff,” he told Forbes magazine in 2006. “Giving really does move me. Part of it is selfish. It’s fun to be appreciated. But the other part is that good things really are growing.” He called the bluegrass gathering a “selfish gift,” one that he, the musicians and the community could all enjoy. “How could you have more fun than that? What the hell is money for if it isn’t for something like that?” F. Warren Hellman Forbes, 2006
We are saddened to announce that Patricia Christina “Chris” Hellman – artist, ballerina, philanthropist and wife of Hardly Strictly Bluegrass founder Warren Hellman – passed away on Saturday, February 4th. Chris was a passionate supporter of the arts and that love came through in all aspects of her life. She was an avid painter and a tireless supporter of the San Francisco Ballet.
Greg Wynn
Oct 1, 1969 - Mar 14, 2024
Nancy Hellman Bechtle
Dec 14, 1937 - Nov 3, 2021
Tony Rice
Jun 8, 1951 – Dec 25, 2020
We are devastated by the passing of our beloved Greg Wynn. Gregory “Greg” Wynn, age 54, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 14 , 2024 with his family and close friends by his side. For the past two years Greg fought cancer with determination, grace, and bravery. Greg was born in Sunnyvale and earned his bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University. Greg had a love of music since childhood, and after graduation, pursued a career in the music/entertainment industry. Greg began his career working in Artist Hospitality at Shoreline Amphitheater, where he thrived in the hectic backstage performance environment. From there, he proceeded to work for Bill Graham Presents, and the Great American Music Hall. Using his talents, he worked in the promotion department at KFOG radio station and was the Director of Business Development at SLO. Greg’s lifelong experience prepared him to become the Executive Producer for Genentech employee celebrations, and for the last 19+ years, he found his true home, working for Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, (HSB). Greg proudly assumed the role of Operations Producer of HSB, where he found a team of people, who became his chosen family. Greg was predeceased by his father, Tom Wynn and is survived by his loving mother, Nika Wynn, sister, Veronica Wynn (Marcel Duvekot), niece, Nina, and nephew, Matthew. Greg also leaves behind many close friends, all of whom have been instrumental in his life; he left an indelible mark on everyone and will forever be missed. The family would like to thank his friend and caregiver, Phillip Grogg, as well as the Hellman family, and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass staff, who were extremely supportive and generous in Greg’s battle with cancer.
It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of one of our own, Nancy Bechtle. Nancy was the younger sister of our founder, Warren Hellman, and a noted force for good in San Francisco for many years. Renowned for her work with the San Francisco Symphony, the Presidio Trust (and many other causes) and beloved by all of us, Nancy was a vital part of HSB, performing with the Go To Hell Man Band and also fronting her own band, Nancy and the Lambchops. Her passing will leave a hole in our lineup for all time. As we feel the sadness of her loss, we also feel deep gratitude and appreciation for Nancy and honor her memory.
So sorry to learn that bluegrass master Tony Rice has passed away. How well we recall 2004 and 2005, when the Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Quartet were with us at HSB and blew us all away with their great music. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Billy Joe Shaver
Aug 16, 1939 - Oct 28, 2020
Jerry Jeff Walker
Mar 16, 1942 - Oct 23, 2020
Justin Townes Earle
Jan 4, 1982 - Aug 23, 2020
A sad farewell and much appreciation to Billy Joe Shaver, seen here on the Arrow Stage in 2009.
So sorry to learn that Jerry Jeff Walker (HSB 2008, 2010, 2012) has passed away. Thank you for all the songs and good times.
A beautiful soul, and a singular talent. We are devastated at the loss of our friend Justin Townes Earle. Deepest condolences to the entire Earle family. Rest easy Justin.
John Prine
Oct 10, 1946 - Apr 7, 2020
Adam Schlesinger
Oct 31, 1967 - Apr 1, 2020
David Olney
Mar 23, 1948 - Jan 18, 2020
So sorry to learn that Jerry Jeff Walker (HSB 2008, 2010, 2012) has passed away. Thank you for all the songs and good times.
A master pop-rock songwriter/performer, Adam performed with his band Fountains of Wayne at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2010. We share 2 songs from 2010 as we mourn his passing (Apr 1, 2020) to coronavirus.
David Olney was a strong presence at HSB, in 2004, 2007, and 2010, appearing as part of the “Songwriters Circle” all three years, and also with Sergio Webb in 2010. In the video below, we share 2 songs from 2010 as we mourn his passing.
Donnie Fritts
Nov 8, 1942 – Aug 27, 2019
Dr. John
Nov 20, 1941 - Jun 6, 2019
Roky Erickson
Jul 15, 1947 - May 31, 2019
We were sorry to hear of Donnie’s passing – he was a one-of-a-kind songwriter also known widely for his work with Kris Kristofferson. When he appeared at HSB in 2015, he came as part of Buddy Miller’s Cavalcade of Stars with John Paul White, who had just helped Donnie’s 2015 album.
We are truly saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. John. He was a singular talent, whose contributions will be felt through the ages. Rest well Night Tripper!
We are saddened to hear of the passing of psychedelic rock pioneer, Roky Erickson. We are honored that he was able to grace the Rooster Stage with his presence in 2018. Thank you Roky. ❤️
Tony Joe White
Jul 23, 1943 - Oct 24, 2018
Charles Bradley
Nov 5, 1948 – Sep 23, 2017
Jimmy Lafave
Jul 12, 1955 – May 21, 2017
Those who joined us at HSB15 were treated to a wonderful set by Tony Joe White, including this performance of “Rainy Night In Georgia.”
We here at HSB were very sad to hear of Charles Bradley’s passing. We will always remember his spectacular performance at HSB in 2015. Rest in peace.
Days after a grand, emotional goodbye with his sold-out Songwriter Rendezvous at the Paramount Theatre last Thursday, Austin songwriter Jimmy LaFave died Sunday, confirmed his label Music Road Records. He was 61. – Austin Chronicle Our thoughts are with Jimmy LaFave’s family, friends & fans. Thank you for so many years of beautiful music. We will miss you.
Sharon Jones
May 4, 1956 - Nov 18, 2016
Ralph Stanley
Feb 25, 1927 – Jun 23, 2016
Guy Clark
Nov 6, 1941 - May 17, 2016
Here’s a glimpse at just one song from an amazing set of music in the park that Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings gifted us with back in 2010. We shall miss Sharon and her energy, dedication and spirit.
We’re so very sad to hear the news about Dr. Ralph Stanley. Such an incredible life. May he rest in peace.
Guy Clark was a fixture at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass for 10 years and we will miss him dearly. We have shared his performance of “Stuff That Works” at HSB4 (with Verlon Thompson) – just one of the many special moments he shared with us over the years.
Merle Haggard
Apr 6, 1937 – Apr 6, 2016
Otis Clay
Feb 11, 1942 - Jan 8, 2016
Claude Shade
1953 - 2015
On April 6, 2016 we lost another musical icon and member of the HSB family, Merle Haggard. This excerpt from the SF Weekly article after his appearance at HSB11 puts it well: “The Merle/Kris performance appeared to be the great unifier of all HSB attendees. The silver haired, elder cowboy-hat demographic, identified at performances by Robyn Hitchcock or Gillian Welch, danced like no one was watching. Aside them, younger fans in tight black jeans and denim jackets shared their flasks before eventually congregating in front of A.A. Bondy. Legends achieve this status because their music spans decades, defies genres and speaks to people across experiences or musical preferences.” Rest in peace, Merle.
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Otis Clay. His performance at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 11 was incredible, and we hope you’ll take a moment to watch him in action.
When Warren first mentioned that someone from Goodby Silverstein was designing our inaugural Strictly Bluegrass poster we were surprised. We expected something more organic. Then we saw some of Claude’s work and understood. It was original, he embodied something very unique and it could only be expressed through his eyes. Claude designed every poster for the festival from 2001-2015. It was a process. Deadlines were not something he particularly addressed. We could stress all we wanted but in the end we were always blown away with his finished product. To say that he was a photographer does not do justice to his talent. He was a character; an artist without pretense. He was genuinely fun to be around, usually smiling at you while his eyes were illuminating elsewhere. It was how he viewed the world and how he shared his mindset with the rest of us. The void Claude left when he passed away last week won’t ever be filled. We are devastated to lose a friend and visionary who shared his passion with us. Claude was warm, funny, clever and irreverent. When I read Jeff Goodby describe him as “All Rick Moranis on the outside & Tom Waits on the inside” I smiled, he captured Claude’s spirit precisely. We were extremely fortunate to have Claude as a colleague and friend. His contributions to the festival will be with us always. – Sheri Sternberg & Hardly Strictly Bluegrass
Doc Watson
Mar 3, 1923 - May 29, 2012
Hazel Dickens
1935 - 2011
Odetta
Dec 31, 1930 - Dec 2, 2008
We were extremely heartbroken to learn that one of the founding fathers of bluegrass, Doc Watson, has passed away. He was 89 years old. We have had the great honor of Doc gracing our stages in 2005, 2007, 2009 & 2010. Doc once said of his own father – “One day he brought a banjo to me and put it in my hand and said, ‘Son, I want you to learn how to play this thing real well…It might help you get through the world.'” Indeed. Rest in Peace Doc, and thank you for all you’ve done.
Website
From the first HSB (when it was still called Strictly Bluegrass) in 2001 all the way through 2010, it was an honor and a pleasure to have Hazel grace our stages. An incredible woman and an amazing voice. She will be sadly missed.
Those who joined us at HSB8 were treated to an incredible set by American singer, actress, guitarist, lyricist, and a civil and human rights activist Odetta. The highlight of her set included a heartstopping rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” that was the emotional center of that year’s performances.