Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer

Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer were a folk duo whose intellectual songwriting and poignant performances made them darlings of the American folk music scene in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Dave Carter, born in 1952 in Oklahoma, was the principal songwriter, drawing on a rich tapestry of Americana, country, folk, and blues, infused with a spiritual and philosophical depth. Tracy Grammer, from California and born in 1968, partnered with Dave in 1998, entwining her skilled violin, guitar, and vocals with Dave's storytelling. Together, their chemistry created a sound that was captivating, soulful, and resonant with the traditions and landscapes of the American heartland.

Tragically, Carter's life was cut short at the age of 49 when he suffered a heart attack in 2002, but their music continued to find new audiences. After Carter's death, Grammer emerged as a guardian of their shared musical legacy, releasing posthumous albums that featured previously recorded material. "Little Blue Egg" (2012) and "Joy My Love" (2012) showcased the enduring depth of Carter’s songwriting and the harmony the pair created, while "Seven Is The Number" (2006), Carter's mystically-titled last studio album, received critical acclaim and revealed the ongoing influence their music has had on the folk genre. Despite being active as a duo for a relatively short time, Dave Carter & Tracy Grammer's musical partnership left an indelible mark that continues to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike.