Articles

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…

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…

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…

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…

Reprinted from Bluegrass Unlimited MagazineVolume 16, Number 6, December 1981 “Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike,that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans…proud of our ancient heritage… ”—President John F. Kennedy January 20,1961 On a crisp winter day when the fall leaves…

Charlie Stevens Charlie Stevens (guitar, vocals) is an artist based in the Fort Collins, Colorado area where he regularly performs and teaches guitar. On this debut release Stevens is joined by a host of supporting musicians including Jan Peterson (bass), Ron Lynman (banjo), Scott Catalano (mandolin), Tad Smith (resonator guitar), Bridger Dunnagan (fiddle), Taylor Shuck…