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Chesam Creek Band
Donny
Lee Nuckles, Jr. Song
writing and music have always been a big part of my life. Stories that
have been handed down from the mountains of Southwestern Virginia, to
the rolling fields of Culpeper, my songs are of the past and the
present. I’ve been known to be very proud of my Southern past and its
future. When I was a child I would sit upon my Grandmother Hess’ front
porch as she would play her banjo (Little Birdie, Cluck Old Hen etc…).
The mountains of Garden Creek, Virginia were so blessed with the sounds
of all the music played from the hearts of the people. These folks and
their music are the inspiration behind my songwriting. I have met so
many good people while on this musical journey. I appreciate the support
they have given my songs and this band, Chesham Creek. God bless you,
and God bless Virginia and its sweet Southern people.
 Liz
Monseur
I am thrilled to be part of Chesham Creek, after hearing the stories of
the people in Donny’s songs and knowing well his passion for southern
history and heritage. For years, I have enjoyed playing and singing
folk, traditional and bluegrass tunes with friends. Music was just
something I did as a pastime and performances were infrequent. I
consider it an honor to share the stage with such great performers in
the band as
well as to be part of a group that opens for talent like
Larry Keel and Natural Bridge. Echoing Donny’s sentiments, I too,
appreciate the enthusiasm listeners have shown Chesham Creek.
Gary
Keel
I have known Donnie for many years as a
good friend, talented musician and songwriter. Donnie has captured the
respect, love of family and preservation of the southern heritage in the
songs that he has written and now performing.
Being born in Southwest Virginia, I grew up knowing about the greats of
the area i.e. The Stanleys, Jim and Jesse, etc. My dad played guitar and
banjo for many years for almost any occasion. My brother Larry, a
professional performer and songwriter, travels the United States
performing with his band.
Raised in the Warrenton, Virginia area, I was hypnotized with all the
great sounds out of WKCW Radio Station along with the legendary National
Country Music contest at Lake Whippoorwill in August of every year. Also
Galax to Watermelon Park, I was always music bound in someway.
I would like to thank Donnie for asking me to be a part of his great
work and hope that you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed being part it.
 Patty Embrey
I have known Donny for
many years as a co-worker, talented musician, songwriter and most of all
a friend.
When I heard the material that he had written I was honored to be asked
to be part of this project.
I come from a family of musicians; enjoying many different music and
festival venues. My dad and brothers played in a band together for many
years with many accomplished musicians. It was always so much fun; times
that I will cherish forever.
Many sincere thanks to Donny for asking me to be a part of his great
work and for the awesome experience.
Becca
Isaac My
first ensemble singing experience was at age 5, as a member of the
Cherub Choir of my family’s Methodist Church in
Charleston
,
West Virginia
. We wore white angel robes
with giant red ribbons at the neck.
Throughout junior high and high school I sang in the school
chorus and church choir, learning how to harmonize and sight sing.
At home, “Stained Glass Bluegrass” was heard on the radio
every Sunday morning, and record albums of folk music, gospel, rock and
roll, disco, and soul were often played.
From these very humble musical stirrings (including 7 years of
piano lessons), I have developed a deep love and appreciation of music
and musicianship. Lewis
Family songs from Hallelujah
Turnpike are still a favorite of my sister and mine to sing a
cappella around campfires and at family gatherings.
We will sing with all seriousness, and then crumple up with
laughter at how much fun it is.
Josh Butler
I grew up trying to play rock n roll like
most of my friends in high school. That changed when I met Larry Keel.
He introduced me to the bluegrass pickin circles that we all love. From
my first jam, I was in awe of the skill these guys had. I began playing
banjo inspired by players such as Ben Eldridge from the Seldom Scene and
Will Lee from Magraw Gap.
Currently, I've been playing the mandolin and I'm having a blast with
it. I feel really lucky to be able to learn from some of the great
musicians in Virginia.
 Lauren
Smith
I am so
excited to be a part of “Chesham Creek’ and their wonderful music and I
would like to thank Donnie for this opportunity. I have been playing the
fiddle since the age of seven (I begged my parents for lessons) and the
first tune I learned was “Flop eared mule.” Over the years I have had
the privilege to study and play with such talented musicians as Laura
Lengnick, Scottish Fiddle Champion Steve Hickman, Chris Sexton of
“Nothin’ Fancy”, and Doug Marshall. Being a southern girl myself, (My
family hails from Virginia, Georgia and North Carolina) the songs and
stories of “Chesham Creek” are close to my heart. I dedicate my music to
my family and my Granddaddy who was my biggest fan.
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