Rodney Dillard of The Dillards (AKA “The Darlings” from The Andy Griffith Show) – A Living Legend at the Spring Planting Festival!

The Baker Creek Spring Planting Festival is honored to welcome a true American music icon: Rodney Dillard, founding member of The Dillards — one of the most influential bluegrass and Americana bands in history. Best known to many as one of “The Darlings” on the beloved Andy Griffith Show, Rodney helped bring mountain music into living rooms across the nation and around the world.

Hailing from Salem, Missouri, The Dillards revolutionized American music in the 1960s and beyond — not only preserving bluegrass traditions but pushing the genre into new territory by blending folk, country, rock, and even orchestral elements. As one of the first groups to electrify bluegrass instruments, experiment with vocal layering, and cover pop songs through a bluegrass lens, The Dillards inspired a generation of artists including Don Henley, Elton John, John Paul Jones, and The Byrds.

Rodney Dillard, now the last surviving original member of the group, continues to carry that musical torch, performing, recording, and preserving the spirit of a simpler time rooted in values of family, community, and tradition — all themes shared with our festival.

With a legacy that includes over 60 years of recordings, TV and film appearances, and induction into multiple Halls of Fame, Rodney’s performance is more than just a concert — it’s a celebration of American heritage and storytelling through song.

Whether you’re a fan of bluegrass, a Mayberry enthusiast, or just love hearing from a true musical pioneer, this is a rare opportunity to see one of the greats up close.

Come experience the charm, humor, and heart of Rodney Dillard — right here at Baker Creek!