WestWend is an Americana/bluegrass/country duo comprised of Jonathan Maness (guitar, vocals) and Wendy Crowe (vocals). Established in 2011 in Knoxville, Tennessee, they perform and record new traditional country/bluegrass music. With Jonathan’s roots in bluegrass and Wendy’s roots stemming from the Delta blues, classic country, and Motown, they have come together to create a sound all their own.

The “tone center” combination of Wendy’s sweet alto and Jonathan’s rich baritone leaves a stunning platform for intricate vocal interplay. Their live set as a duo showcases each of their vocals in turn, while leaving their vocal harmony on full display throughout. Jonathan’s diverse guitar playing is the glue holding their arrangements together. One can often find WestWend backed by the powerful fiddle playing of East TN fixture Cody Bauer, and supported by the bass playing of Pinecastle Recording artist, Matt Wallace.

WestWend’s first full-length release, “Linger For A While”, features a combination of handcrafted, heartfelt originals and fresh interpretations of acoustic/bluegrass classics. It features virtuosic performances from Rob Ickes, Jaret Carter, Matt Leadbetter, and Andy Hall (resophonic guitar), Andy Leftwich and Sam Bush (mandolin), Cody Bauer (fiddle), Mark Fain, Bryn Davies (Bass), and Bryon Larrance (Drums). Reminiscent of such artists as Alison Krauss, Doc Watson, and Maura O’Connell, it’s a loving tribute to some of WestWend’s favorite singers, songs, and sounds.

WestWend has performed at some of the biggest festivals in the United States and Europe including: the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion, the National Cornbread Festival, the St. Augustine Seafood festival, the Pensacola Great Gulf Festival and more. In 2016, they also performed a 14 day European festival tour, including Stary Dobry (CZ), La Roche (FR), and the Spring Bluegrass Festival (CH). They have shared the stage with for Rhonda Vincent, Guy Clark, and Tyler Hilton, and many more.

WestWend is well on their way to finishing a sophomore release. It is a country project that will feature their songwriting, impeccable vocals, and Jonathan’s instrumental prowess. You can look for it everywhere music is delivered in the fall of 2021!