Bluegrass Musician. Best known for being the lead guitar and founder of the "Hot Ritz" bluegrass band from 1975 until their break up in 1990, he was one of contemporary bluegrass music most innovative guitarist of all times. Admired for his aggressive attack style of guitar, he defined bluegrass guitar for over 25 years. "Hot Ritz" and their alter-egos, "Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers", found fans on their tours world wide and appeared on the Grand Old Opry, Austin City Limits, The Prairie Home Companion and several Nashville Network productions. After Hot Rize, Charles Sawtelle played on projects with Peter Rowan, David Grishman, Laurie Lewis and other various artists. He formed his own band in his home state Colorado called "The Whippets". Charles died as a result of a long battle with Leukemia at the age of 52. His ashes were spread in a remote place, known only to family and close friends in Hawaii.
Bluegrass Musician. Best known for being the lead guitar and founder of the "Hot Ritz" bluegrass band from 1975 until their break up in 1990, he was one of contemporary bluegrass music most innovative guitarist of all times. Admired for his aggressive attack style of guitar, he defined bluegrass guitar for over 25 years. "Hot Ritz" and their alter-egos, "Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers", found fans on their tours world wide and appeared on the Grand Old Opry, Austin City Limits, The Prairie Home Companion and several Nashville Network productions. After Hot Rize, Charles Sawtelle played on projects with Peter Rowan, David Grishman, Laurie Lewis and other various artists. He formed his own band in his home state Colorado called "The Whippets". Charles died as a result of a long battle with Leukemia at the age of 52. His ashes were spread in a remote place, known only to family and close friends in Hawaii.
Bio by: Debi Ann
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