2024 International Blues Challenge Band Winner, 2025 Best emerging artist album blues music award for revelation
“Piper & the Hard Times combine the sensibility and flair of vintage blues bands with the entertainment savvy and edge of modern rockers … one of America’s premier new blues groups.” (Ron Wynn/Nashville Scene)
Piper & the Hard Times delivers intense, eclectic and rhythmically dynamic blues-based music flavored with R&B, soul and rock. The band has an instrumental prowess that enables them to improvise with flair, while still creating music that has a melodic appeal that can immediately connect with audiences who want both a high degree of musical competence and songs with strong grooves and catchy hooks. In January 2024 they took top honors in the band division at the prestigious

White Horse Black Mountain is a beloved intimate music hall located in downtown Black Mountain, NC. With a cozy capacity of approximately 150-180 seats, this venue is celebrated as a true “listening room” where the focus is squarely on the music and the artist-audience connection. In addition to live concerts featuring genres from jazz and bluegrass to rock and Americana, 

White Horse also hosts storytelling nights, theater, poetry readings, puppetry, and community fundraisers. The venue prides itself on outstanding acoustics, comfortable seating with sofas and tables, and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Owned and curated by music industry veteran Bob Hinkle, White Horse Black Mountain fosters a vibrant cultural hub for Western North Carolina.

Locals regard White Horse as a unique jewel in the Black Mountain community, known for its attentive sound quality and warm, relaxed vibe. Visitors praise the venue for its diverse programming, from chamber music and bluegrass to jazz ensembles and tribute bands, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover. The intimate setting encourages connection between performers and audiences, often leading to sold-out shows and enthusiastic repeat guests. 

The venue’s bar offers a curated selection of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks, complementing the sophisticated yet unpretentious ambiance. Attendees highlight the venue’s commitment to supporting local art and culture as a key part of its enduring appeal.

White Horse Black Mountain

Discover Asheville, NC’s thriving live music and events scene with our expertly curated guide featuring concerts, festivals, community happenings, and more. Whether you’re searching for live shows from local bands, major concert venues, seasonal music festivals, or family-friendly events, Asheville delivers a wide array of entertainment options to suit all tastes and ages. Stay ahead with up-to-date listings on upcoming music events, cultural festivals, arts showcases, and exciting adventures in Asheville’s vibrant neighborhoods and downtown. Find the best things to do tonight and every day, making your visit or stay in Asheville unforgettable with rich experiences in music, culture, and entertainment.

Piper & The Hard Times

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