Valerie Smith

Recording Vocal Artist, Songwriter, Producer, Videographer, Educator and owner of Bell Buckle Records

Happy Halloween! Here is a spooky song!

WELCOME TO VALERIE SMITH'S OFFICIAL PAGE

"Non-stop energy, passion included with a tremendous love for her audience."  

"Valerie has soul"

"Valerie Smith has developed her own sound, "ValGrass"...a fusion of bluegrass, roots, Americana, folk and country music." 

Valerie Smith is an award-winning Grassicana artist whose style is a mixture of bluegrass, country, and Americana music. NPR radio host Dave Higgs has noted, "She can be sassy, sultry, siren-like, sweet, smooth, soothing and smoldering---sometimes during the span of just one song!"

"From a Distance" has remained on the Bluegrass Today Grassicana, Folk and Bluegrass Today Charts for over 1 year!

Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike have been at the forefront of the bluegrass music scene for over two decades, captivating audiences worldwide with their electrifying performances and critically acclaimed recordings. With a lineup that includes Wally Hughes on dobro and fiddle, Lisa Kay Howard Hughes on mandolin, Joe Zauner on banjo and guitar, and Valerie Smith on guitar and lead vocals, the band is a powerhouse of talent and passion.

Valerie Smith, an award-winning and Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter, has appeared on various television shows, including Ronnie Reno's The Bluegrass Underground, Song of the Mountains, and PBS. Her single "From a Distance" featuring Claire Lynch and Irene Kelley, has remained on the Grassicana charts for over a year. Valerie co-produced her upcoming album "Renaissance" with Tim Carter, which is set to release on September 3, 2021. The advanced single "I Found" debuted at #5 on the Roots Music Report chart, #7 on the Bluegrass Today Grassicana chart, and #8 on the FAI Folk DJ Chart for June 2021.

Their music is a true embodiment of bluegrass, combining elements of traditional and contemporary styles, and creating a sound that is uniquely their own. The band continues to push the boundaries of bluegrass music, while staying true to its roots. Their upcoming album "Renaissance" is a testament to their musical prowess, with songs that touch on themes of hope, sorrow, love, and renewal.

Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike's music is an experience that transcends boundaries and brings people together. With numerous tour dates on the horizon, they continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of bluegrass music. Make sure to catch them live and be part of the magic!

Quotes

"Renaissance crosses through multiple musical genres while still staying true to the Valerie Smith sound that encompasses an acoustic flair with a touch of bluegrass and all with exceptional musicianship." - Keith Barnecastle, Bluegrass Standard

 "Valerie Smith’s music doesn't preen or shout; instead, it beckons listeners to come closer and simply enjoy the listening experience. A singer of nuance and an exceptional instrumentalist, she has demonstrated many times over that she can create distinctive bluegrass music with her Liberty Pike band, but with RENAISSANCE she offers us a solo album that explores her diverse musical roots. It’s music to get lost in—the soundtrack to embracing a daydream that you don’t want to snap out of providing a truly wistful respite."- Alan Cackett, Americana, Bluegrass, and Country Music Reviews

 "The album not only resonated with fans but with the media as well with rave reviews coming in from such esteemed outlets as Bluegrass Today (Bluegrass Today Renaissance Review) who wrote “Emotionally speaking, you won’t be able to stay in one place too long as you’re listening” and rambles.net, whose writer Jerome Clark named it “One Of The Best Albums Of 2021” and wrote, “Smith, it appears, is fashioning a mature style of what might be called post-bluegrass” (Renaissance rambles.net review).  

Meet the band "Liberty Pike"

Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike

Joe Zauner (Banjo, Guitar), Wally Hughes (Dobro, Fiddle, Vocals), Tom Gray (Bass, Vocals)  Valerie Smith (Vocals, Guitar), Lisa Kay Howard Hughes (Vocals, Mandolin)

Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike Bluegrass Energy! 

Valerie Smith is an award-winning Grassicana artist whose style combines blAre you a fan of bluegrass music? Then you must check out Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike Bluegrass Energy! Valerie is a renowned Grassicana artist who blends bluegrass, country, and Americana music effortlessly. She has been recognized with numerous awards for her soulful and passionate performances. 
NPR radio host Dave Higgs has aptly described her as "sassy, sultry, siren-like, sweet, smooth, soothing, and smoldering - sometimes just in one song!" With non-stop energy and love for her audience, Valerie's music is an incredible experience that amazes you. Valerie has recorded several projects, performed globally, and featured on various radio and television shows. She is a music instructor who offers educational programs on songwriting, voice, bluegrass history, and performance techniques. Don't wait any longer; head to her website and discover the magic of Valerie Smith's music! You won't regret it.
Liberty Pike is Valerie's touring band. They are seasoned, talented musicians and have recorded several music projects. The band offers an educational program and enjoys reaching out to the fans. Members of Liberty Pike include Wally Hughes, Lisa Kay Howard Hughes, Joe Zauner, and Tom Gray. This line-up of "Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike" has been going strong for 7 years. They have also developed a fan base and following within the bluegrass and Americana community. Each member is an active part of organizations, jamming and playing music professionally regularly.

Charting

Latest Release

Featured Singles

Where does the band name come from?

Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike Sampler