It's hard to deny your roots. David Culler's philosophy of music is similar to his philosophy of life. Culler formed the band BackPorch Bluegrass in 2003, and since then, the group has remained loyal to the tradition of bluegrass and gospel music that they grew up listening to in the Yadkin Valley.

Culler, much like his musical stylings, has also remained close to home. Now a resident of Wilkes County, where his fellow members of BackPorch Bluegrass are headquartered, Culler spent his childhood in Elkin and graduated from Elkin High School before leaving to join the military.

This Saturday, Aug. 21, Culler will make the short trip for a homecoming when he and BackPorch Bluegrass play at “Celebrate: Our Food and Wine” in downtown Elkin.

“It's a wonderful thing to revitalize the downtown area for those of us who grew up as kids in Elkin,” said Culler. “A lot of my friends are now organizing the event, and I'm glad we can help out in some small way.”

Just the idea of returning with his band to perform in front of a hometown crowd thrills the seasoned regionally-known musician.

“I'm actually nervous about this event, and usually I'm not,” Culler said laughing.

For Culler and the other members of BackPorch Bluegrass – Billy Ray Summerlin, Tony Joines, Jerry Bobbitt and Linda Bobbitt – playing songs within the local tradition defines themselves as much as it does their music.

“We're predominately a bluegrass band and mix in gospel because it's in our roots,” said Culler. “We all have other jobs, but we love our music.”

While doing his share to maintain the roots of the area's music, Culler is happy to see that the Reeves Theater Restoration Project, sponsor of the Celebrate Elkin series, is working to maintain the roots of his hometown. As some might describe BackPorch Bluegrass's revival of bluegrass and gospel music in the 21st century, Culler also feels slightly “romantic” about the effort to restore the Reeves Theater at the heart of Main Street, Elkin.

Said Culler, “The whole purpose of helping revitalize Reeves Theater is exciting... It's probably where I got my first kiss – you never know...”

For more information about this Saturday's “Celebrate Life in the Yadkin Valley” series event, contact Dan Whelan at 835-2094. For more information on BackPorch Bluegrass, visit the band's website at www.backporchbluegrass.com.