Ken Chapple
Guitarist, singer & songwriter in Asheville, NC
Pictured: Wrealist
Hi, I’m Ken.
I’m a flatpicking guitarist and singer-songwriter living in Asheville, NC. I play bluegrass, jazz, classical and rock guitar, and I love writing songs that sit somewhere between them.
I’ve played festivals like Wintergrass and the Northwest String Summit, and my old band Wayward Vessel took 2nd place in the Telluride Bluegrass band contest. My records include Crossing the Black (2015), Shades of Life (2020) and Wrealist (2025).
Bands
Funk · Rock · Roots
Wrealist
My newest band, playing my original songs. American roots music meets funk, jazz and rock grooves. Think Medeski Scofield Martin & Wood, with lyrics.
Traditional bluegrass
Blue Ridge Tradition
Classic bluegrass from the mountains around Asheville, often followed by an open jam.
Newgrass
Another Country
Newgrass and traditional bluegrass, playing the songs from Crossing the Black and Shades of Life.
Earlier: Wayward Vessel, the Portland, OR progressive bluegrass band (2010–2014).
Listen
Stream or buy my music, including Shades of Life and Crossing the Black.
Free for guitar players
Get Flatpick Guitar Classics free
Join my email list and I’ll send you my 5-track flatpicking EP, plus a full 6-page transcription of Big Sciota.
Come to a show
Wrealist and Blue Ridge Tradition play around Asheville and Western North Carolina.