Hello Again,

This is somewhat of a follow up to the Sam Bush podcast. Sam wasn't sure who it was that led the New Christie Minstrels, and I had absolutely no clue. The Answer: Randy Sparks. Randy began the group in 1961 and has had a hand in it ever since.

The New Christie Minstrels, as you heard Sam say, were the inspiration for he and his sisters to start a folk group of their own.

Sam Bush, though only partially influenced by this group (a real long time ago), leads a list of many other musicians that may sound familiar to you. Past members of the Minstrels include Barry McGuire, Kim Carnes,
Kenny Rogers and the First Edition, as well as members of the Byrds, The Association, and The Modern Folk Quartet.

Others of note that are former New Christie Minstrels include actress Karen Black, and Cleveland's own
Scott Newell.

This group has a facinating history and is actually still together today with Randy Sparks leading them. You can check out The New Christie Minstrels at www.thenewchristieminstrels.com

The only question left unanswered for me is: When, after 47 years of existence, will they become the Old Christie Minstrels?

God Bless,
Bluegrassrom