Charlie Starr is the vocalist and lead guitarist of Blackberry Smoke, an American rock and roll band well known for their blend of country, blues, and rock. Born in Lanett, AL, Starr’s passion for music was ignited from an early age, influenced by the rich musical heritage of his family and his curiosity to dig deeper into the rock and roll he heard being played by his mother and sister. His distinctive voice, gritty yet soulful, became a defining element of Blackberry Smoke's sound, captivating audiences worldwide.

Charlie Starr grew up immersed in bluegrass, traditional country, gospel, and "hillbilly" music, thanks to his father—a bluegrass guitarist, singer, and avid fan of those genres—who also taught him to play guitar at a young age. That early exposure shaped his understanding of storytelling through song, acoustic instrumentation, and the foundational structures of American roots music. Even as Starr ventured into heavier rock and Southern rock with Blackberry Smoke, he has said that bluegrass remains a core influence in both his playing and songwriting.

The 4th Annual Mike Steed Roots Music Celebration Concert is sponsored by the Michael P. Steed Endowment for the Performing Arts, a designated fund specifically crafted to present shows that meet the artistic and authenticity vision of the late Mike Steed, a dear friend to the entire staff at the Townsend Center for the Performing Arts and a wise counselor for us all.