Guide Note

Rusted Root is an American multi-instrumentalist jam band from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, often recognized for their strong percussion section and tribal sound. Each band member plays an assortment of instruments, which they often incorporate into their live shows, including flutes, banjos, mandolins, washboards, and bongos. Fusing many musical genres, including Rock, Bluegrass, World Music, and drum and bass, Rusted Root's sound is a unique blend that draws inspiration from the music of Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Fast Facts

1. Origin: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2. Years active: 1990-present
3. Played at Jerry Garcia's final show
4. Recorded Remember at Skywalker Ranch
5. Original Band Line-up: Michael Glabicki, Jenn Wertz, Liz Berlin, Jim Donovan, Patrick Norman, and John Buynak
6. Discography

Formed in 1990 by lead singer Michael Glabicki and his high school friend Liz Berlin, Rusted Root started out playing the local Pittsburgh scene, renting out warehouses and inviting friends out for a night of food and music. They released their first album, Cruel Sun, on an independent label in 1992 and engaged in extensive touring. After catching the eye of PolyGram Records, the band released their major label debut and second full length When I Woke in 1994. It went platinum and was an instant hit on college radio stations, with the single "Send Me On My Way" getting major play time on MTV. Several albums followed When I Woke, including Remember in 1996, Rusted Root in 1998, Welcome to My Party in 2002, Rusted Root Live in 2004, and their Greatest Hits in 2005, but none have been as successful.

Rusted Root continues to thrive, having shared the stage with such notable bands as The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band, Dave Matthews Band, Santana, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant. They have also played a variety of popular music festivals over the years, including Bonnaroo, H.O.R.D.E. Fest, and Woodstock 1999, and their music has appeared in such television shows and movies as Ally McBeal, Party of Five, Twister, Home for the Holidays, and Ice Age. The band continues to make music and tour as a group, as well as take time to work on their solo careers.