Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Quotes, formed in Long Beach, California, in 1966, is an American country-folk-rock institution that blends bluegrass, country, and roots music with a timeless spirit. Known for their landmark album Will the Circle Be Unbroken and hits like “Mr. Bojangles” and “Fishin’ in the Dark,” the band—led by stalwarts Jeff Hanna and Jimmie Fadden—has bridged generations with their authentic sound. These quotes, sourced from interviews, songs, and public appearances, capture their love for music, community, and staying true to their roots.
15 Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Quotes
- “You and me go fishin’ in the dark, lyin’ on our backs and countin’ the stars, where the cool grass grows.” (Song, “Fishin’ in the Dark,” 1987)
- “We’ll be fallin’ in love in the middle of the night, just movin’ slow, stayin’ the whole night through, feels so good to be with you.” (Song, “Fishin’ in the Dark,” 1987)
- “I was singin’ to myself, a song I can’t recall, when I saw that pretty girl a-walkin’ down the hall.” (Song, “Mr. Bojangles,” 1970)
- “We were just a bunch of kids trying to play music that felt real to us.” (Interview, Jeff Hanna, The Tennessean, 2016)
- “Will the Circle Be Unbroken was about bringing people together—old and young, country and city—to share the music we love.” (Interview, John McEuen, Bluegrass Today, 2002)
- “I’ve been lookin’ for a love that’s true, someone to love me like I love you.” (Song, “I’ve Been Lookin’,” 1988)
- “Music is the one thing that can heal a lot of wounds and bring folks closer.” (Interview, Jimmie Fadden, Country Music News Blog, 2018)
- “We never set out to be famous; we just wanted to play the songs that moved us.” (Interview, Jeff Hanna, American Songwriter, 2020)
- “Some of Shelly’s blues, tell me, who do they belong to?” (Song, “Some of Shelly’s Blues,” 1970)
- “The Opry stage feels like home every time we step on it.” (Interview, Bob Carpenter, Grand Ole Opry Archives, 2019)
- “We’re a band that’s always been about the long haul, not the quick hit.” (Interview, Jeff Hanna, Billboard, 2016)
- “Keep on the sunny side, always on the sunny side, keep on the sunny side of life.” (Song, “Keep on the Sunny Side,” 1972)
- “Playing with Roy Acuff and Maybelle Carter taught us that music is bigger than any one person—it’s a tradition.” (Interview, John McEuen, NPR, 2012)
- “House at Pooh Corner, you’d be surprised, there’s so much to be done.” (Song, “House at Pooh Corner,” 1970)
- “After 50 years, we’re still here because we love what we do and the folks who listen keep showing up.” (Interview, Jeff Hanna, VisitMusicCity.com, 2020)
The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s words weave a legacy of heart, harmony, and timeless connection. Which quote hit home for you? Drop it in the comments and let the circle stay unbroken.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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