Hook and Line, Mebane, NC 10/11/25

The Hook and Line: Thompson Music & Arts Heritage Festival was held this past weekend in Mebane to celebrate the musical legacy of Joe and Odell Thompson. While the photo above was taken at Mebane Community Park, the two musicians seen in this photo are visiting from Greensboro.

On the right is Grammy Award-winning musician Rhiannon Giddens, a Greensboro native. Performing beside her is her musically talented nephew, Justin Harrington. Rhiannon, classically trained in opera at Oberlin College and Conservatory, honed her skills in string band music during informal sessions with Joe Thompson. Joe, who played with his older cousin Odell, was one of the last musicians to preserve the tradition of Black string band music. It was in these sessions that Rhiannon and the other members of what would become the Carolina Chocolate Drops learned the musical style of Joe and Odell Thompson.

Justin Harrington, a Weaver Academy graduate and alumnus of the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, Ohio, is also a multi-talented musician. On Saturday night, he showcased his skills on the banjo and rhythm bones.

Also performing during that set (though not visible in this photo) was Justin Robinson, another founding member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops. It was a fabulous event with musicians who continue to make Greensboro proud.

Happy Monday!