Eastbayri.com

WESTPORT/LITTLE COMPTON — Adam Machado’s love for American roots music began when he was a child, splitting his time between his father’s home in Westport and his mother’s in Little Compton.

His stepfather, Bob Sayre, introduced him to the genre, which encompasses artists like Mance Lipscomb, Country Joe and the Fish, and Fred McDowell.

“I had a lot of records and I guess he liked it,” said Mr. Sayre. “He told me over Christmas, he said ‘thank God you played Mississippi John Hurt for me.’”

Thirty years later, Mr. Machado’s love for the music and the path he took to work in the industry has gained him a Grammy nomination.

He is nominated for Best Album Notes for the 136-page book he wrote to accompany “Hear Me Howling! Blues, Ballads & Beyond: The Arhoolie 50th Anniversary Box Set.”

Up against big industry names like Neil Diamond, Mr. Machado has suddenly found notoriety from his position as the right hand man of Arhoolie Records president Chris Strachwitz.

Mr. Machado, who now lives in San Francisco, visited Mr. Sayre and his mother, Susan Sayre, for the holidays. (His father, Ronald Machado, now lives in Florida.)

“As often as he can, he comes East,” said his mom.

Growing up, Mr. Machado attended Westport schools and Moses Brown in Providence.

His music tastes evolved, said Ms. Sayer, and before he left for the University of Pennsylvania, he was also listening to jazz and blues.

At Penn, he majored in English and music, combining his interests in classes like Jazz Line Notes, said Ms. Sayre.

There he was encouraged to contact Archie Green, a nationally known folklorist.

After graduation, Mr. Machado and a friend hopped into a Volvo and drove to San Francisco, where he’s been ever since, said Ms. Sayre.

Mr. Green (who passed away in 2009) introduced him to Arhoolie Records’ Chris Strachwitz, who spent a great portion of his life since leaving Germany recording everything from polka to Cajun to jazz.

Mr. Machado does a little of everything for Arhoolie, including grant writing, fund raising, and being a general assistant to Mr. Strachwitz.

“He understands first that you need to row the boat a little,” Ms. Sayre said.

Then three years ago the idea for a 50th anniversary compilation box set came forth.

Mr. Machado was chosen to write the accompanying book, which compiles photos, history, and biographical information on Mr. Strachwitz and the dozens of artists featured on the CDs.

“It’s a kind of book that would appeal to a small but loyal following,” Ms. Sayre said.

For three years he researched and interviewed, even flying down to a Louisiana prison to interview one subject, said Mr. Sayre.

“He has a natural affinity for what is old and therefore has value,” Ms. Sayre said. “He respects the stories these people tell.”

In the end, the box set and its book opened to more than positive reviews.

Mr. and Ms. Sayre both said they are proud of Mr. Machado and whether he wins or loses at the Grammys being nominated is a great honor.

The box set is also up against Elvis and Paul McCartney compilations for Best Historical Album.

The 54th Annual Grammy Awards air on Sunday, Feb. 12 on CBS.