Jim Bickerstaff
Pioneering alternative folk music in the South.
Jim Bickerstaff is a multifaceted artist whose career spans over decades of innovation, collaboration, and heartfelt expression. Having spent a lifetime of sound, soul, and storytelling, he continues to receive acclaim in all fields. With roots as a house engineer for the legendary producer Johnny Sandlin, Bickerstaff spent four years shaping sound for iconic bands such as Widespread Panic, Colonel Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit, and The Dixie Dregs. His engineering talent has contributed to numerous releases, working alongside legendary musicians such as Chuck Leavell, Butch Trucks, Loretta Lynn, and Ry Cooder, among others.
Bickerstaff has flourished as an independent producer and engineer, collaborating with artists from the indie scene to established legends. His production credits include Jupiter Coyote, Chief Jim Billie, Sarah McCulloch, John McEuen, Bela Fleck, and many others, showcasing his versatility and dedication to nurturing authentic sound.
As a singer-songwriter and performer, Bickerstaff has released four albums of original music, collaborating with some of the finest musicians in the business. His songwriting, deeply rooted in community and personal history, garnered him the prestigious Will McLean Song Contest award, with his heartfelt piece “Sister Mary” celebrating the spirit of Florida’s preservation and the enduring influence of those who fought for it. His fourth album, Old Trees, was released in April of 2025, presenting more soulful storytelling. Bickerstaff’s talents also extend beyond music into craftsmanship as a luthier and proprietor of Strings 'n Brass in Huntsville, Alabama. His passion for sound and craftsmanship reflects his lifelong commitment to artistry and innovation.
A dedicated community member, Bickerstaff credits Margaret Longhill, a pioneering force behind the Florida folk community, for inspiring his songwriting about Florida’s landscapes and legacy. His work often explores themes of conservation, the passage of time, and our collective responsibility to preserve the planet. Bickerstaff’s journey is one of continuous exploration—merging sound, story, and soul—driven by a heartfelt desire to make meaningful music and meaningful change. Whether behind the mixing console, on stage, or crafting instruments, his legacy is one of authenticity and enduring artistry.
