"There is a unique joy in watching a musical journey come full circle."
At The Acoustic Shoppe, we’ve had a front-row seat to the incredible rise of The Petersens, and our latest collaboration in the studio is one for the books.
Recently, the band stopped by The Acoustic Shoppe studio to record a hauntingly beautiful cover of the Don Williams classic, "Lay Down Beside Me." While the music speaks for itself, the history behind this session spans decades of friendship, mentorship, and Ozark tradition.
A Legacy Built at The Acoustic Shoppe
Long before they were international bluegrass sensations, The Petersens were students right here at our store. In the very beginning of their musical journey, every member of the band took private lessons from The Chapmans.
Our history with the band goes far beyond the classroom:
The First Records: The Petersens recorded their first two studio albums right here in our studio.
The Production Team: Bill Chapman served as the engineer, while John Chapman produced those first two records (and many singles since!).
Musical Collaboration: John, Jeremy, and Jason Chapman performed the majority of the instrumental tracks on those early recordings, helping lay the foundation for the band's signature sound.
The Little Opry & Beyond: Over the years, we’ve shared the stage many times, even filling in with the band during their residency at their home theater in Branson, The Little Opry.
Bringing it Home: "Lay Down Beside Me"
Having them back in the studio felt like a family reunion. Because we’ve worked together since they first picked up their instruments, there is a musical "shorthand" between us that you just can't manufacture.
On this track, we wanted to honor the "Gentle Giant" of country music, Don Williams. The arrangement highlights the tight, familial harmonies The Petersens are known for, backed by the high-end acoustic production we pride ourselves on at The Acoustic Shoppe.
"Watching them grow from students to world-class performers has been one of the highlights of our careers. Recording 'Lay Down Beside Me' wasn't just about making a video; it was about celebrating a twenty-year musical friendship." — The Chapman Family
Watch the New Video
You can see the full performance of "Lay Down Beside Me," filmed and recorded at The Acoustic Shoppe, right here:
