Bill Keith

Bill Keith, born William Bradford Keith on December 20, 1939, in Boston, Massachusetts, was a pioneering five-string banjoist whose innovative playing style left an indelible mark on bluegrass and newgrass music. With a career spanning over four decades, Keith's influence on the banjo is often compared to that of the genre's founder, Bill Monroe. His unique picking style, informally named after him, pushed the boundaries of the instrument and inspired countless musicians. Keith's collaborations with notable artists like Bill Monroe, the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, Ian and Sylvia, and Judy Collins further cemented his legacy. Until his passing on October 23, 2015, Keith remained a beloved figure in the music world, continually evolving and inspiring generations of banjo players.