Steep Canyon Rangers, hailing from North Carolina, gained recognition for their progressive bluegrass sound well before collaborating with Steve Martin in 2009. Starting with their 2001 debut Old Dreams and New Dreams, the band established themselves as innovative old-timey bluegrass musicians. They garnered critical acclaim, winning International Bluegrass Music Association awards and a Grammy in 2012 for their album Nobody Knows You. Over the years, they continued to explore new musical territories, teaming up with Boyz II Men for the bluegrass, soul, and R&B fusion album Be Still Moses in 2020, and delving deeper into their Appalachian folk influences with 2023's vibrant Morning Shift.

Formed in 1999 at the University of North Carolina, Steep Canyon Rangers evolved from impromptu jam sessions to a renowned bluegrass outfit with a unique blend of traditional and progressive elements. The band's songwriting prowess, showcased in their original compositions, appealed to a diverse range of music fans. As their popularity grew, they toured extensively, both on their own and alongside Steve Martin. Collaborations with various artists like Edie Brickell and Joe Henry further solidified their place in the music scene. With a string of successful albums and a reputation for boundary-pushing creativity, Steep Canyon Rangers remain a prominent force in the bluegrass world.