The KEvin Prater Band

The Kevin Prater Band is a powerhouse bluegrass band originating from Belcher, Kentucky, celebrated for their authentic, hard-driving Coal-Fired, Pure Kentucky Bluegrass. Formed around 2007, the band has a fierce reputation for high-energy performances, masterful picking, and authentic Appalachian storytelling. They seamlessly blend traditional bluegrass with vintage country, powerful four-part acappella gospel, and grassed-up classic rock.

Bandleader: Kevin “waldo” Prater

At the heart of the group is multi-instrumentalist and powerhouse vocalist Kevin Prater, who boasts over 45 years in the music industry. Prater spent twelve of those years touring the world and recording with the Grammy-nominated James King Band. He also shared stages with bluegrass legends the likes of Melvin Goins. Known for his piercing, "high lonesome" tenor singing, Prater has grown proficient on the mandolin, banjo, guitar, and bass, anchoring the band's authentic traditionalist approach.

Musical Style and Live Performance

What sets the KPB apart is their raw, improvisational, heartful performances. Possessing a massive catalog of songs, the band never uses a set list during live shows, keeping the energy fresh and captivating. Their sound honors first-generation bluegrass legends like the Stanley Brothers and Bill Monroe while injecting a youthful, driving momentum.

Discography and Acclaim

The band tours relentlessly, averaging over 100 shows a year across the United States and Canada. They have released several critically acclaimed projects, including:
  • All I Ever Wanted (2017): A  showcase of their vocal versatility featuring standout tracks like "House of the Rising Sun" and their original tune "Moonshine Bill".
  • Kentucky Mountain Memories (2024): Written by son of Legendary fiddler Curly Ray Cline, Timmy Cline, and Released under Turnberry Records, this single reached #6 on the Americana music charts, and demonstrated the Kevin Prater Band's Appalachian sonic heritage.