Nick and Glenda Pender: Long Time Coming

Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains, historic Dahlonega, Georgia is known as the site of the first Gold Rush in the United States. Dahlonega locals and tourists will vouch also that Dahlonega is a “gold mine” of old time and bluegrass music as well. For more than two decades, Dahlonega residents Nick and Glenda Pender have been at the heart of the North Georgia bluegrass scene as crowd pleasing performers and as festival organizers. During that time they became recognized as fixtures in Dahlonega that are as significant and familiar to the community as the gold it is famous for. So in 2003 when they released their debut CD entitled “Long Time Coming”, there was reason to celebrate in the old mining town. Several marvelously arranged traditional tunes make up the foundation of the track selection. It is highlighted as well by some Pender originals including "The Road" which tells of the plight of the Georgia Mountains as they are encroached upon by urban expansion. All of the performances remain true to the time honored tradition of bluegrass and old time mountain music. With Nick on stand-up bass and Glenda playing guitar, the two alternate and share lead vocals. Guitar player and vocalist Neel Pender, Nick and Glenda's son, joins in on two of the tracks including "Hidin' In the Corn". That track was the written product of Neel, his brother Scott and sister Marla making this project a true family affair. Other contributing guest artists include the 2001 and 2002 IBMA guitar player of the year Jim Hurst (who also receives production credit), popular Rounder Records recording artist Rob Ickes on dobro plus Pinecastle Records veteran recording artists Wayne and Kristin Scott Benson on mandolin and banjo respectively. Renowned fiddle player Mark Squires and talented vocalist Becky Mojica round out the all-star cast of performers. Sadly, Nick passed a way in the summer of 2004 after a courageous battle with illness. But a review in "Bluegrass Now" magazine put it best saying Nick and Glenda's Pender's CD was a "Long Time Coming", but it's here to stay! Indeed as Glenda carries on the tradition of great music in Dahlonega, she brings with her Nick’s wonderful spirit! Listen here at Southern Music Digital and you'll find out why Nick and Glenda have endeared themselves to bluegrass fans across North Georgia.