The All American Bluegrass Band was formed and performed for the first time on Sept. 7, 2001. We originally formed to host an all bluegrass show at a theater in New Paris, OH. After a short while, we were in such big demand we stopped hosting the Bluegrass Jamboree USA and began with a busy tour schedule of our own. The All American Bluegrass Band currently tours and performs at festivals, fairs, and theaters in several states in the midwest. Due to the large fan base, talent, and popularity of The All American Bluegrass Band we were invited to become a regular part of the world famous Renfro Valley Barn Dance, Renfro Valley Kentucky.

The current lineup includes founding members: Mark Poe on banjo, Harold Russell on mandolin, and Duane Sparks on guitar joined by Wes Miller on bass and Jeff Hardin on fiddle.

The recent release of the band's first self-titled CD project has had much success by receiving alot of radio airplay with the songs: Always Marry An Ugly Girl, Mandolin Man, Let's Be Sweethearts Again, and Takin' Out The Trash. In our live performances, we like to play a wide variety of material including gospel, classic country, and some classic rock, all done bluegrass style. Mixed with a little comedy, this makes for a fun-filled show the whole family will enjoy.

Harold Russell started his illustrious career in the 1960's with the Russell Brothers band. After performing on the local and regional circuit, The Russell Brothers were put in the spot light when asked to play the world famous Renfro Valley Barn Dance in 1970. Harold and the band performed regularly until 1978 and then signed with the Atlas Artists Talent Agency after appearing at the Grand Olde Opry in 1979. This decision enabled the Russell Brothers to tour extensively and work with the likes of Ernest Tubb, George Jones, and many more sold out venues all across the country. After the disbanding of the Russell Brothers band, Harold then joined forces with the Kentucky Gentlemen Band in the mid 1980's and stayed until deciding to take a short break from the performing business that lasted seven years. In 1994, Harold was asked to fill-in a couple dates with Blue Night and ended up working with them until 2002. Now Harold plays with The All American BLuegrass Band, but most of his time is spent collecting antiques, and old coins to add to his vast collection, and enjoying time with the family.

Mark Poe has been very active in the music industry since his early teens, At age 5 he asked his dad to teach him guitar so he could join the family in playing on the Saturday night gatherings at someone's house. At age 12 Mark was asked to become a member of The Gospel Travelers as mandolin player and through the years has worked with many name artists in the business. Performing as a regular member of Dave Evans and Riverbend, Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers, founding member of Drive Tyme which was voted the 1993 FANS CHOICE at the SPBGMA Bluegrass Music Awards in Nashville, TN. Mark has also had the opportunity to fill-in with many bands such as Dr. Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mt. Boys and Mac Wiseman's Country Boys for the High Lonesome Bluegrass documentary video taping at Bean Blossom, IN in 1989. Mark's interest in the music business has resulted in becoming a disc jockey and concert promoter. He has wanted to have a live performance radio show since becoming a disc jockey at WECI 91.5 fm Richmond. After performing in 42 states and touring Japan, Mark feels right at home with The All American Bluegrass Band. In his off time, he likes to keep up on college basketball and is a huge fan of the Kentucky Wildcats. Mark also teaches music at Templeton's Music Center & Recording Studio in Richmond and does session work for various genres of music.