Johnny Staats & Robert Shafer

Years at Winfield: 

Johnny Staats first burst on the national scene in 2000 with his critically acclaimed release, "Wires & Wood". Johnny was profiled by sources ranging from People Magazine, The New York Times, CBS Evening News w/ Dan Rather, Paul Harvey, CNN and The Today Show, just to name a few. He and the Delivery Boys have appeared several times on WSM's Grand Ole Opry and continue to tour when Johnny is not driving the big brown truck for UPS. Johnny's command of the mandolin is astounding. His influences range from the traditional bluegrass sound of Bill Monroe to the sophisticated classics of Mozart, with jazz, swing and newgrass all mixed in with ultimate taste. Johnny resides in his native Jackson County, WV with his wife Lori and their two daughters, Jessica and Hannah.

Robert Shafer has played guitar professionally since graduating high school in 1981. He is a 2 time winner of the National Flatpicking Championship, held annually at the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, Kansas. Robert has also held state guitar championships in Kentucky (3 times), Tennessee (twice), Ohio (twice) and Alabama. Robert has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, Mountain Stage, BBC and has worked with many well known artists including Mark O'Connor, Mike Snider, Kenny Baker, Josh Graves and many others. In addition to being a first rate flatpicker, Robert is also an amazing electric guitarist. His 1997 release, "Hillbilly Fever" on the Upstart/Rounder label received rave reviews from Guitar Player magazine, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Vintage Guitar magazine and many other prominent publications. Robert's influences range from flatpicking pioneer Doc Watson to the legendary rockabilly guitarist, Danny Gatton. Robert currently resides near Charleston, WV.