Tim O’Brien

Born 1954, Wheeling, Ohio County

Grammy-winning bluegrass/country/folk artist Tim O’Brien is an incredibly talented multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter. Tim is also a sought-after producer who co-founded the popular group Hot Rize. He has also played with Mark Knopfler and comedian Steve Martin.

Wheeling native Tim O’Brien came to prominence with the Colorado-based bluegrass band Hot Rize, and its tongue-in-cheek country-Western alter ego, Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers. Since Hot Rize disbanded in 1992, O’Brien has recorded solo, with his group the O’Boys, with his sister Mollie, and Darrel Scott. His songs have been recorded by longtime friend Kathy Mattea. When his 2005 release, Fiddler’s Green, earned him a Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Recording, he became one of the most sought-after session players on the folk-country-progressive-bluegrass circuit and has appeared on dozens of releases.

In addition to production and session work, O’Brien maintains a rigorous touring and recording schedule. In 2010, he toured with Mark Knopfler and has recorded with Steve Martin.

A board member of the WV Music Hall of Fame, he has played a key role in a number of projects and the HoF’s induction ceremonies.