About Abe

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Abe Reid is a North Carolina musician and one of the modern keepers of the Piedmont roots music tradition. Born in Forsyth County and raised in Statesville, Reid began playing guitar at a young age, developing a deep connection to the region's historic finger-style traditions.

Reid's musical education came directly from the source. As a young player he spent time with legendary Carolina musicians Guitar Gabriel and Cootie Stark, learning not only guitar technique but also the storytelling and spirit behind traditional American roots music. He’s spent decades on stage across America and learning the old blues from the people who carried it.

In the 1990’s Reid immersed himself in the life of a working musician, busking on the streets of New Orleans before returning to North Carolina's music scene. He later helped form the roots band The Blue Rags, known for energetic performances and traditional sounds.

Reid gained international recognition when he won the International Blues Challenge in Memphis — becoming the first solo performer to win the competition.

He then gained success forming Abe Reid & the SpikeDrivers, well known as unofficial guardians of the traditional art of "blood and guts" musical performance, with a blend of Piedmont blues and raw rock 'n roll. Abe’s authentic finger picking and soloing technique has impressed countless guitar enthusiasts and watching him always makes getting the blues enjoyable.

Today Abe Reid continues to perform, teach, and share the music of the American South, passing on the knowledge he learned from older musicians and over years on the road.