The Kevin Prater Band

Mandolin, Guitar, Banjo, Bass, Lead and Harmony Vocals

Born in Grundy, VA., currently resides in Belcher, KY.  Kevin Prater's love of music began at age four, with the encouragement of his Uncle, Boone Estep.  He quickly mastered the Guitar, Mandolin, Bass and Banjo.  By age seven, Kevin was playing in a touring southern gospel Unit. Later, Kevin along with life long friend Dave Adkins of Dave Adkins and Mountain Soul formed "Elkhorn Grass", touring for eleven years.  Upon Graduating High School Kevin had secured a regular gig at Dollywood, where he remained for three years.  

In 1998, Kevin was asked to audition as mandolin player and vocalist for The James King Band.  That audition led to a 12 stint that would take him around the world, entertaining in 24 Countries and 49 States.  They recorded two, "Album of the Year" a "Song of the Year" and a "Recorded Event Of The Year" award winning projects.   Kevin has played the Grand Ole Opry a number of times with James King Band and Melvin Goins and Windy Mountain. Upon leaving The James King Band he toured with Mark Phillips and Third Generation, and spent three years with The Bluegrass Brothers, during which he earned a SPBGMA nomination for "Banjo Player of the Year".   

After much encouragement from friends and peers, Kevin stepped out of the Sideman position to begin Leading his own band.  Fast forward 17 years, Kevin has created one of the most respected traditional bluegrass bands in the nation.  Known for their "Coal Fired, Pure Kentucky Bluegrass' and Acapella Gospel music.

Kevin has won awards and recognition throughout his career, including twice being named a Kentucky Colonel and twice recognized by the House of Representatives of the great State of Kentucky, for Preserving and Promoting Kentucky's treasured Bluegrass Music.