Moundsville, WV (July 27, 2026) -- As Crandall Creek celebrates its 10th anniversary, the West Virginia-based bluegrass band is honoring the legacy of its beloved founder, Jerry Andrews, while beginning a new chapter. The band has released the deeply personal new single, "Bluegrass in Heaven," written in Jerry's memory by lead vocalist Megan Paullet, and is welcoming West Virginia musician Robert Russell to the Crandall Creek family.
"Bluegrass in Heaven" serves as both a farewell and a celebration of the man whose vision and passion for bluegrass music helped bring Crandall Creek together a decade ago. The single is available now on all major digital and streaming platforms and will also appear on the band's upcoming album, Higher Ground, releasing August 7, 2026.
Inspired by the grief of losing her friend and bandleader, Megan wrote "Bluegrass in Heaven" as a heartfelt tribute to Jerry and the musical family he created. The song offers a moving reflection on faith, friendship, loss, and the hope of hearing bluegrass music once again beyond this life.
Joining Megan Paullet on "Bluegrass in Heaven" are Dustin Terpenning on banjo, Sav Nelson on bass, Edwin McCoy on fiddle, and Roger Hoard on guitar. The song was produced by Jamie Peck.
As Crandall Creek carries Jerry's legacy forward, the band is pleased to welcome Robert Russell on guitar, fiddle, mandolin, and vocals. A native of Buckhannon, West Virginia, Robert brings high-energy musicianship, high-lonesome vocals, and a deep respect for traditional bluegrass to the group. His extensive experience includes performing with Ralph Stanley II & The Clinch Mountain Boys, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run, Larry Efaw and The Bluegrass Mountaineers, Jeff Parker & Company, and Ole Smokey Bluegrass Band in Pigeon Forge.
The band's 10th anniversary year also brings continued recognition for its music. Crandall Creek has received three 2026 Josie Music Award nominations: Group of the Year – Bluegrass, Song of the Year – Bluegrass for "Cold Morning Rain," and Album of the Year – Bluegrass for Color Me Blue.
"Bluegrass in Heaven" is available now on all major digital and streaming platforms. Radio programmers can access the single through AirPlay Direct and Hope River Entertainment.
With its 10th anniversary, the upcoming release of Higher Ground, and Robert Russell joining the lineup, Crandall Creek moves forward with a renewed commitment to the music and friendships that have defined the band for the past decade. Jerry Andrews' influence remains at the heart of that journey, through the music he helped create the band he founded, and the opportunities he helped provide for the next generation of bluegrass musicians.
For more information on Crandall Creek, please visit their website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.