Wayne “Ironman” Christy

If you’ve ever been to Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor, chances are you’ve had a good chat with the establishment’s wildest and most charismatic regulars: Wayne “Ironman” Christy. He’s no stranger to anyone he meets, cracking jokes and making friends with the patrons of Kimbros of all walks of life. He’s made witty conversation with superstars like Josh Kiszka of Greta Van Fleet, and even bought me a Michelob Ultra last year upon first meeting after chatting forever about West Virginia and his past as a motorcycle stuntman. He’s lived many lives, but now, the Kimbro’s legend, in his 70s, pulls up in his white van to immerse himself in front-porch picking, oftentimes with a tambourine in hand and an eagerness to converse in a way that almost feels like a lost art. One Saturday every month, he even plays mainstage inside with his rowdy, good time-having band Uncivil.