The Tradition
The Birth of Bluegrass Music
Peter Rowan has said, “When you are standing next to the fire that is Bill Monroe, you will ignite.”1 From the first time Bill Monroe and his Blue Grass Boys stepped on the Grand Ole Opry stage on October 28th, 1939, and played Jimmie Rodgers’ “Muleskinner Blues” so fast that it astounded the Opry regulars…
Bluegrass Funnyman
In the formative days of bluegrass, bands sought to offer a well-rounded entertainment package. Music, naturally, was the core of the programs but comedy was always an important component. Ralph Stanley, in speaking of the early days of the Stanley Brothers, recalled that “we used a comedian all the time; somebody would dress up and…
A “Hidden Legend” Steps into the Spotlight
The Arnold Shultz Fund is launched in honor of influential western Kentucky musician In July 2020, the IBMA Foundation established the Arnold Shultz Fund to support activities increasing participation of people of color in bluegrass music. Arnold Shultz (1886–1931) was an African American musician from western Kentucky who had a profound influence on Bill Monroe’s…
Hall of Famers Unveiled
Jimmy Martin As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the beginning of the bluegrass genre, Bluegrass Unlimited magazine will look deep into what made those first-generation bluegrass artists tick. At the magnificent and sprawling Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro, KY, the venue seeks to tell the story of bluegrass music by going…
Old-Time Music and Bluegrass: Separate But Intertwining Branches
There are certain questions that anyone who plays bluegrass has encountered more than once from well-intentioned (mostly) listeners. “Is that a ukulele?” to the mandolinist. “What’s the difference between a fiddle and a violin?” (Generally, about $50,000 a year). “Do you know ‘Wagon Wheel?’” (No!!!) Right up there amongst them is, “What’s the difference between…
Notes & Queries – November
NOTES In the August 2020 “Notes & Queries,” we fielded a query about the jam-session favorite and popular bluegrass number, “Love Please Come Home,” and its writer Leon Jackson. Leon, with his partner Johnny Bryant, fronted a band called the White Oak Mountain Boys. The group made at least eight recordings for the King label…