Bluegrass on 3rd Presents Shelby Means

Born in the bluegrass of Kentucky and raised on Wyomings high plains, Shelby Means is one of the foremost bassists in bluegrass, with nearly two decades of experience in bluegrass, folk, rock, Americana, and country outfits. Now based in Charleston, SC, during her tenure in Nashville she was a member of the incredibly impactful GRAMMY-nominated bluegrass band of all women, Della Mae. With Della Mae and others she has traveled to more than 20 countries around the world spreading musical diplomacy. Means is also one half of roots duo Sally s Joel Timmons. With Timmons, Mary Lucey, and Billy Cardine, she co-founded another group, Lovers Leap, a genre blurring, heart-led Americana band. Means is a member of Molly Tuttle s also received more than a handful of awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association for her work with Della Mae and Golden Highway.Means is a driving player with a deep pocket, a singular stage presence, and a magnetic, centered approach to the upright bass. Beyond her work on the instrument, shes also an accomplished songwriter and a heartfelt vocalist whose voice is rooted in tradition while authentically her own. With her debut solo music, slated for release in 2025, Means invites listeners to experience the same soulful presence and adventurous spirit she has built her career on. Her singing and playing has been heard across the country and around the world, from NPRs airwaves, the Grand Ole Opry, Bonnaroo, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and Newport Folk to the U.S. Virgin Islands, Kazakhstan, Australia, and beyond.