Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park /Friends

Big Stone Gap, VA 

Big Stone Gap, Virginia

Dale Jett & Hello Stranger

www.dalejett.com

Singer and musician Dale Jett is a native of Southwest Virginia.  He is a third generation member of the legendary Carter Family.  The son of Janette Carter, the grandson of A. P. and Sara Carter, his roots have been heavily steeped within the heart of his family's musical heritage.  Growing up within the Carter Family, Dale has been influenced by many musicians and styles of music.  He began playing guitar in his late teens when Elizabeth Cotten taught him his first chords -- left handed, upside down.  Later, he added his own style of Autoharp playing to his repertoire.  But, it is ultimately his voice that arrests you.  It is powerful and compelling, yet at the same time, delicate and haunting.

Like his grandfather, Dale is a "collector" of songs.  His dedication to the preservation of traditional music, the love of Carter Family songs, and his admiration of other songwriters are evident in his performances.  His performances and recordings encompass a unique combination of traditional songs blended with a mix of others that extend the boundaries of conventional country.  Whether playing an original tune, or that of others, Hello Stranger's music will ring true to the soul.

Dale helped emcee and the trio performed at the Carter Family fold for many years.  Their group, "Hello Stranger," features Dale as he carries on the Carter Family tradition.  Teresa Jett plays bass, and Oscar Harris plays guitar, mandolin and autoharp.  They have appeared on Mountain Stage, the Marty Stuart Show, the Grand Ol' Opry, and other radio shows.  They have also performed at festivals, concerts, colleges, workshops, private gatherings, etc. around the country and in Canada.