Carolina Chocolate Drops

About

Carolina Chocolate Drops brought old time string band music back into the conversation in a way few acts managed, rooting their sound in the Piedmont tradition of North and South Carolina and learning much of their repertoire directly from legendary African American fiddler Joe Thompson. The Durham trio of Rhiannon Giddens, Dom Flemons, and Justin Robinson didn't just revive the past though: they also tackled modern material, turning Blu Cantrell's R&B hit into an old time number without missing a beat. Their 2010 album Genuine Negro Jig won the Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album, and they went on to open for Bob Dylan, perform at Bonnaroo, and appear on Later with Jools Holland and the Grand Ole Opry. The lineup shifted considerably over the years, with players like Leyla McCalla, Hubby Jenkins, and beatboxer Adam Matta all coming through the ranks. They contributed to The Hunger Games soundtrack and a Bob Dylan tribute, and in 2014 worked with choreographer Twyla Tharp before gradually winding down as members pursued solo paths. Rhiannon Giddens in particular went on to a significant solo career.