Dr Ralph Stanley Music (Tribute to a Great Man)

It’s hard to imagine traditional bluegrass music without the iconic sound of Dr. Ralph Stanley and his band, The Clinch Mountain Boys. For over 60 years, this talented musician has been delighting fans with his timeless tunes that evoke a feeling of nostalgia for simpler times in America’s rural past. From the time he was just a teenager, Stanley has captivated audiences around the world with his unique brand of Americana music — an unmistakable blend of old-time banjo picking and soulful vocal harmonies.

Ralph Stanley is one of country music’s most influential figures, often credited with helping to keep the genre alive during its darkest days in the 1960s and ’70s when rock and pop dominated popular culture. His style influenced countless other musicians in both bluegrass and country scenes, such as Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs and Dolly Parton. Despite some health issues throughout his life, Stanley continued to play until shortly before he passed away at age 89 in 2016.

As we look back on the incredible career of Dr. Ralph Stanley and celebrate his legacy through his timeless recordings, it’s clear why so many consider him to be an important figure in American music history who will never be forgotten.

Biography

Dr. Ralph Stanley is best known for his incomparable bluegrass music and was one of the most influential figures in American roots music during the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Born into a family with deep musical roots on February 25th, 1927 in Stratton, Virginia, he began playing the banjo at age seven and quickly grew to become an amazing musician. In 1946 Dr. Stanley formed a band with his brother Carter called The Stanley Brothers, which would end up becoming incredibly popular throughout Appalachia due to their unique sound.

The brothers released several albums between 1947-1966 that fused elements of gospel, blues, country and folk together creating what we now know as classic bluegrass music. Throughout this time they performed regularly on radio shows such as WWVA’s Wheeling Jamboree and WCYB Bristol’s Farm & Fun Time where they were able to reach large audiences all over the United States.

In addition to performing live shows alongside other great musicians like Bill Monroe or Flatt & Scruggs, The Stanleys also wrote some of the most well-known songs in traditional Bluegrass history including “Man Of Constant Sorrow” and “Little Maggie” . With more than 60 years of recording under his belt (including solo work), Dr. Stanley has made an incredible impact on modern American music by helping shape it into what it is today.

Tragically, Carter passed away in 1966 due to health issues but Dr. Stanley continued making music until recently when he retired from touring after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year; however his legacy will continue forever through his timeless recordings and influence on countless artists that followed him throughout his career.

Early Life

Growing up, Dr. Ralph Stanley was surrounded by music and musicians. His family had deep musical roots in Appalachia with several of his relatives playing instruments such as the banjo and guitar at an early age. As a young boy he would listen to local musicians play on fiddle or dulcimer, which sparked his interest in learning how to play the banjo himself.

At 7 years old, Dr. Stanley began teaching himself how to pick out tunes on the instrument and soon after joined forces with his brother Carter who played guitar for them both to become The Stanley Brothers Band; this combination created a unique sound that blended together elements from gospel, blues, country and folk music.

The pair quickly gained popularity throughout the region and beyond due to their incredible talent and songwriting abilities; they released numerous albums between 1947-1966 including some of bluegrass’ most beloved classics like “Man Of Constant Sorrow” and “Little Maggie” . Throughout this time they performed regularly on radio shows such as WWVA’s Wheeling Jamboree and WCYB Bristol’s Farm & Fun Time where they were able to reach large audiences all over the United States.

Dr. Stanley continued making music until recently when he retired from touring after being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year; however his legacy will continue forever through his timeless recordings and influence on countless artists that followed him throughout his career.

Music Career

Dr. Stanley’s music career spanned over five decades and he was credited with helping to shape bluegrass as a genre. His distinct style of playing the banjo, combined with his brother Carter’s guitar work together created a unique sound that was both traditional yet modern at the same time. This combination helped propel The Stanley Brothers Band into becoming one of the most influential acts in bluegrass and country music history.

The duo released more than 200 recordings throughout their career, including some of the most beloved classics like “Man Of Constant Sorrow” and “Little Maggie” which have been covered by artists such as Bob Dylan and Emmylou Harris. They also earned accolades from the Country Music Association who inducted them into its Hall of Fame in 1992 for their contributions to American music.

Throughout his career, Dr. Stanley continued to push boundaries while staying true to his Appalachian roots and preserving traditional mountain sounds within his songs; this allowed him to remain relevant even as times changed around him and win generations of new fans along the way.

In later years, he collaborated with younger musicians such as Jack White on projects like A Man Of Constant Sorrow, which showcased how timeless his influence remained despite many years spent in performing music professionally. He will be remembered fondly not only for all these accomplishments but also how much joy he brought through his artistry over so many years.

Recording History

Dr. Stanley’s recording history is one of the most celebrated in bluegrass and country music. He began his career by releasing seven albums with his brother Carter, The Stanley Brothers Band, which helped to shape the sound of modern bluegrass as well as bring traditional mountain sounds into the mainstream. Many of their biggest hits such as “Man Of Constant Sorrow” have been covered multiple times by different artists over time.

In addition to these releases, Dr. Ralph also released several solo albums throughout his career including A Man Of Constant Sorrow, I Sang The Song (Life Of The Voice With A Heart), and Clinch Mountain Country. These recordings showcased how he was able to stay true to his Appalachian roots while expanding on them at the same time; this combination enabled him to remain relevant even when tastes were changing around him and continue to win generations of new fans along the way.

Dr. Stanley continued pushing boundaries within his genre until late in life when he collaborated with younger musicians like Jack White whose modern production style allowed for a fresh interpretation of classic songs while still honoring their original intent and keeping that timeless feeling alive.

His influence will be remembered fondly not only through all of these accomplishments but also through how much joy he brought audiences through his artistry over so many years. His legacy lives on today, inspiring countless more performers who strive to keep traditional styles alive in an ever-changing musical landscape.

Influences And Inspiration

Dr. Ralph Stanley’s influence and inspiration on the bluegrass and country music genres is undeniable. His pioneering spirit, combined with his Appalachian roots, helped to shape the sound of modern bluegrass as we know it today. From traditional mountain sounds to more progressive interpretations, Dr. Stanley always kept true to his core values while pushing boundaries within the genre he loved so much.

His recorded works have been appreciated for generations by both old-time fans and new listeners alike, thanks in part to collaborations with artists such as Jack White who blended classic elements with a contemporary production style that allowed for a fresh interpretation of timeless classics.

Through these recordings, Dr. Stanley was able to reach a wide audience and bring joy to people from all walks of life – something which will be remembered fondly not only through his musical accomplishments but also through how much happiness he spread over the years through his artistry alone.

The legacy left behind by Dr. Ralph Stanley continues to inspire countless performers who strive to keep traditional styles alive in an ever-changing musical landscape and carry on the legacy of one of America’s greatest cultural treasures.

Awards And Recognition

Dr. Ralph Stanley’s talent and impact on the bluegrass and country music genres have been widely recognized over the years. He was inducted into both the Grand Ole Opry and The International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, as well as received a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for Arts in 2006.

In addition to his awards, Dr. Stanley’s influence can be seen in many other ways throughout modern music today. His songs are still covered by artists such as Gillian Welch and Alison Krauss who cite him as an inspiration behind their own work. He was also featured prominently in the soundtrack of the movie O Brother Where Art Thou? which reignited interest in traditional American folk music styles among younger generations.

Beyond that, Dr. Stanley left behind a rich body of recorded material that serves not only as a testament to his immense talent but also provides insight into Appalachian culture for anyone interested in learning more about it. It is through this legacy that he continues to serve as an inspiration to countless musicians around the world looking to keep traditional roots alive while pushing boundaries within their respective genres.

It is clear that Dr. Ralph Stanley has made an indelible mark on American musical culture with his unique style and will continue to do so long after he is gone – making him one of our most important figures when it comes to preserving and celebrating our nation’s musical heritage for future generations.

Collaborations

Dr. Ralph Stanley’s career was marked by numerous collaborations with some of the biggest names in bluegrass and country music, including his own brother Carter. Throughout their musical partnership, they released more than a dozen albums together which built on each other’s strengths while still maintaining the traditional sound they had grown up with. He also worked closely with legendary songwriter Keith Whitley who wrote many of their most popular songs such as “Wait A Minute” and “Man Of Constant Sorrow.”

Stanley wasn’t just limited to working with established musicians though; he also regularly collaborated with younger artists looking to learn from him or help keep the tradition alive. These included acts like Old Crow Medicine Show, The Avett Brothers, and Nickel Creek – all of whom had been influenced by his work over the years. This kind of mentorship is what allowed Dr. Stanley to pass down his knowledge and style for future generations to enjoy long after he was gone.

Throughout his career, Stanley never seemed content relying solely on one type of collaboration or another – instead, he kept an open mind when it came to making new music no matter who was involved in creating it. Whether it be a duet between himself and another artist or even singing alongside a gospel choir, he always looked for different ways to bring out the best in any project he took part in whether it be old-timey tunes or modern interpretations of them.

This willingness to experiment without losing sight of what made him unique helped make Dr. Stanley’s body of work so timeless that people are still discovering its beauty today despite being decades since these recordings were first created.

Signature Style

Throughout his career, Dr. Ralph Stanley was known for having a signature style that kept listeners coming back for more. His singing voice had an unmistakable twang and he never shied away from using it to convey the emotion of each song in its own unique way. He also used banjo-picking techniques like clawhammering and three-finger picking which set him apart from other bluegrass players of the time.

In addition to this traditional approach to playing, Stanley was unafraid to experiment with new musical ideas when recording or performing live – something which allowed him to constantly keep things fresh while still staying true to himself as an artist. This willingness to take risks is what helped him stay relevant throughout his long career and why people are still rediscovering his music today.

Dr. Stanley’s influence on modern music can be found all over the place, from Mumford & Sons’ cover of “Man Of Constant Sorrow” to Eric Church’s use of clawhammer banjo licks on several songs off their album Desperate Man. No matter where you look, there will always be someone out there who has been affected by his work and is looking for ways to pay tribute in one form or another.

It’s clear that even after so many years since he first started making music, Dr. Ralph Stanley continues to have a profound impact on those around him through both his recordings and collaborations alike – further showcasing just how important traditional mountain music truly is today.

Notable Performances

Throughout his career, Dr. Ralph Stanley was known to be an incredibly versatile performer and would often take part in a variety of different shows that showcased his talents. From live performances at the Grand Ole Opry to festivals like MerleFest, he always managed to captivate audiences with his unique style and energy – no matter where he went.

One of Stanley’s most memorable performances came in 2000 when he performed “O Death” as part of the soundtrack for the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? The song quickly gained traction and earned him two Grammy awards for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Traditional Folk Album.

Another notable performance was during the 2003 CMA Awards ceremony, which saw Stanley perform alongside artists such as Dolly Parton and Vince Gill in honor of legendary country singer Johnny Cash. This powerful tribute featured some of Cash’s best-known songs and proved to be one of the highlights of the night – further showcasing just how influential Dr. Ralph Stanley had become over time.

Stanley also found success on television when he appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien in 2004 and again in 2012 for PBS’s American Masters series – giving viewers around the world a glimpse into what made him so special as an artist. These appearances showed off not only his incredible talent but also revealed why it is still worth taking the time out to listen to traditional mountain music today.

Instrumental Techniques

Dr. Ralph Stanley was an incredibly talented musician, and his instrumental techniques were part of what made him stand out in the traditional mountain music genre. He had a unique approach to playing both guitar and banjo that combined speed and precision with subtle nuances and powerful lyrics – something he developed over time as he perfected his craft.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Stanley’s style was his use of modal tunings on the five-string banjo. In this tuning, each string is tuned differently from one another, requiring a different set of finger placements for chords – creating an entirely new soundscape for listeners. By using these modal tunings, Stanley was able to add more emotion into every song without sacrificing any technical accuracy or precision.

Another technique that helped define Dr. Ralph Stanley’s musicality was his use of double stops – where two strings are played simultaneously instead of just one at a time like usual. Thanks to this technique, it became possible to fill out sections with much richer tones than before while still keeping the overall texture light enough to carry the vocal melody throughout each track.

Stanley also employed some interesting percussive elements with his right hand as well by hitting and tapping various parts of the fretboard during solos or transitions between songs – adding yet another layer to his already impressive repertoire. All in all, these little details helped create a truly unique sound that can only be attributed to Dr. Ralph Stanley himself – showing why he remains such an important figure in bluegrass history today.

Legacy

The legacy of Dr. Ralph Stanley’s music lives on in the hearts and minds of many fans, musicians, and folklorists alike. For over 50 years, he has been an inspiration to generations of pickers who have followed his lead and taken up traditional mountain music as their own style. His influence can still be heard all across Appalachia today – from old-time jam sessions to modern bluegrass festivals.

Dr. Stanley was also a major proponent of preserving the culture and heritage of Appalachian life through songwriting and storytelling – something that has become increasingly important in recent decades with the rise of globalization. He strived to create a unique musical blend that told stories about real people and their experiences while staying true to its roots at the same time – something which is evident in every single one of his recordings.

Ultimately, it wasn’t just about creating great music for Dr. Ralph Stanley; it was about connecting with people through his artistry and giving them an opportunity to experience what he had known growing up in rural Virginia – a culture where family values, community spirit, and hard work were key elements in everyday life. In this way, he helped bring together seemingly disparate parts of American society into a cohesive whole through shared traditions and commonalities that could never be replaced or duplicated by any other artist or genre.

It’s clear that Dr. Ralph Stanley left behind an impressive body of work that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come. His dedication to tradition combined with a knack for innovation ensured that when it comes to bluegrass music, no one will ever quite measure up to him again.

Discography

Dr. Ralph Stanley’s discography is a testament to his incredible talent and lasting influence on the world of music. Throughout his career, he released over 65 albums, most of which featured traditional mountain songs as well as his own original compositions. His work showcased an eclectic mix of styles – from bluesy bluegrass to heartfelt ballads that spoke directly to the human experience. He was also known for collaborating with other top-tier musicians such as Ricky Skaggs, Vince Gill, and Patty Loveless, creating unique recordings that blended different musical genres together in surprising ways.

The Grammy Award winning album I Am A Man Of Constant Sorrow (2001) stands out among Dr. Stanley’s repertoire due to its overwhelming popularity and critical acclaim. Featuring classic Americana songs like “Pretty Polly” and “Oh Death,” this landmark recording truly captures the essence of what makes Dr. Ralph Stanley so special – his ability to take old tunes and breathe new life into them through inventive arrangements and stellar instrumentation. This record has come to be seen by many as one of the greatest bluegrass albums ever made.

Not surprisingly given his prolific output throughout the decades, some of Dr. Stanley’s best work came during later years when he was already in his 70s or 80s! The powerful performance of “Man Of Constant Sorrow” on O Brother Where Art Thou cemented him as a legend not just in bluegrass circles but across all genres; while 2009’s A Distant Land To Roam saw him exploring more spiritual themes than ever before with material ranging from hymns like “What Would You Give In Exchange For Your Soul?” to darker cuts like “Hills Of Home.”

No matter how you look at it, there is no denying that Dr. Ralph Stanley left behind an impressive body of work that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come – solidifying himself as one of America’s greatest living musicians even after all these years.

List Of Songs

It’s no surprise that Dr. Ralph Stanley has left behind an impressive catalogue of songs, with each one showcasing his talent and creativity as a masterful musician. From traditional Americana tunes to more contemporary compositions, here is a list of some of the most memorable tracks from this incredible artist:

• “Man Of Constant Sorrow” (from O Brother Where Art Thou?) – One of his best-known recordings, which showcases the power of his voice alongside classic bluegrass instrumentation.

• “Pretty Polly” (from I Am A Man Of Constant Sorrow) – This hauntingly beautiful ballad features heartfelt lyrics delivered in Dr. Stanley’s unmistakable voice.

• “Oh Death” (from I Am A Man Of Constant Sorrow) – Another powerful song featuring Appalachian style singing and banjo playing at its finest.

• “Hills Of Home” (from A Distant Land To Roam) – An uplifting spiritual tune full of emotion and depth.

Dr. Ralph Stanley was truly an exceptional singer-songwriter and performer who will continue to be remembered for generations to come through his timeless music.

Songs Covered By Others

Dr. Ralph Stanley’s music has lived on through cover versions of some of his most famous songs, as well as lesser-known gems he wrote and performed himself. From traditional country to modern rock, the influence Dr. Stanley had on popular music can’t be overstated.

One example is “Man Of Constant Sorrow” by Bob Dylan in his 1962 album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan – a song that gave new life to an age-old American folk standard written by Dr. Stanley. This version was later covered by other artists such as John Doe from X, Jeff Tweedy from Wilco, and Steven Spielberg for the soundtrack of O Brother Where Art Thou?

Another great example is “Oh Death” which has been covered several times since its original release in 1953. It has seen renditions from Johnny Cash, Doc Watson and even metal bands like Metallica and Lamb Of God who both put their own heavy spin on this touching song about mortality.

The long lasting impact of Dr. Ralph Stanley’s work speaks for itself – it continues to inspire generations of musicians with its timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics delivered in a unique style all his own.

Impact On The Genre

Dr. Ralph Stanley is widely recognized as one of the most influential artists within traditional bluegrass and country music. His unique style, blending old-time mountain songs with new melodies and lyrics, has had a profound impact on generations of musicians who continue to be inspired by his legacy today.

In addition to influencing countless individual performers, Dr. Stanley’s groundbreaking work also helped shape the entire genre itself. He was among the first to explore three-part harmonies and intricate picking styles that have become staples in modern bluegrass music.

His influence can still be felt in modern day bands such as The Punch Brothers and Old Crow Medicine Show – groups which are unashamedly rooted in tradition but also bring their own fresh energy to the classic sounds of Americana music.

The lasting impact Dr. Ralph Stanley had on many genres of popular music is undeniable – he made timeless classics out of some of our oldest folk tunes while leaving a strong impression on those around him with his heartfelt performances and creative spirit that will never be forgotten.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Dr Ralph Stanley’s Favorite Song To Perform?

What is Dr Ralph Stanley’s favorite song to perform? This question has been asked by many who are familiar with the iconic singer and bluegrass musician. His career spans over six decades, during which he has performed countless songs that have become classics in their own right.

Dr Ralph Stanley’s music has a unique sound that blends traditional Appalachian folk music with modern elements of country and blues. He often performs his signature tune called “Man of Constant Sorrow”—a hauntingly beautiful rendition of an old mountain ballad. The song showcases his vocal range and skill as a multi-instrumentalist, playing both guitar and banjo simultaneously.

Themes of love, loss, and struggle are prominent throughout much of Dr Ralph Stanley’s work, making it easy for fans to connect emotionally with each performance. As such, this particular song resonates deeply with audiences across all age groups, genders, and backgrounds. It serves as a reminder that human experiences such as joy, sorrow, heartache, and hope can be shared without words or language barriers; only through music can we truly understand one another on a deeper level.

This timeless classic remains one of Dr Ralph Stanley’s most beloved performances today—one that speaks directly to our souls about life’s greatest gifts: love and resilience in times of hardship. It is no wonder why so many people find themselves returning again and again to the soothing melodies of this beloved artist from Appalachia.

What Inspired Dr Ralph Stanley To Write Music?

What inspired Dr Ralph Stanley to write music? This has been a question many have asked for years, and the answer may be more complex than one might think.

Dr Ralph Stanley’s musical influences are varied; traditional country-folk melodies, gospel tunes from his upbringing in rural Virginia, as well as stories of love and loss he heard sung around campfires all contributed to his unique sound. He was renowned for incorporating Appalachian sounds with elements of blues, bluegrass, old-time string bands, and even rock ‘n’ roll into his songs. His drive to create something new out of these diverse influences is what pushed him to become an artist in the first place.

Stanley was also deeply influenced by life experiences. Throughout his long career in music, he faced challenges such as poverty, illness and death that shaped his outlook on life and ultimately found expression in his songs. In addition, the people he encountered through touring – like local musicians who shared their original compositions or fans who requested a certain song – were instrumental in inspiring him to write new material.

Ultimately, it is clear that Dr Ralph Stanley drew upon both external sources and personal experience to craft countless timeless songs throughout his life. These creative forces combined together created a distinct style which earned him recognition as a leading figure in Americana music over the course of several decades.

How Did Dr Ralph Stanley’s Music Influence Other Genres?

Music is a powerful medium that has the ability to influence other genres and spark new ideas. This was certainly true for Dr Ralph Stanley, an influential American singer-songwriter who wrote music in many traditional Appalachian styles such as bluegrass and old-time country. His work has inspired countless musicians from different musical backgrounds, leading to its incorporation into various popular genres.

One of the most notable examples of this is how his songs were adapted by rock bands in the 1960s and 1970s. These artists drew on elements of his style while creating their own unique sound, often using instruments like electric guitars and drums that had never been heard before in folk or country music. As a result, these bands helped create a whole new type of music known as “country-rock” which blended together both genres. It eventually went on to become one of the most successful musical subgenres ever created.

In addition to influencing rock groups, Dr Stanley’s music also impacted generations of gospel singers who took inspiration from his spiritual lyrics and melodic compositions. For example, some churches started incorporating more upbeat tempos into their services with help from Dr Stanley’s catchy tunes. He even joined forces with contemporary Christian artist Marty Stuart to record several gospel albums together which further expanded the reach of his influence throughout religious circles.

Dr Ralph Stanley’s impact on modern music can be seen everywhere today; from pop stars covering his songs to indie rockers citing him as an influence – it’s clear that he left behind a lasting legacy through his timeless works. Whether you’re listening to classic roots records or experiencing something brand new at your local venue, there’s no doubt you’re hearing echoes of Dr Stanley’s creative genius alive in each note played!

What Is Dr Ralph Stanley’s Most Notable Performance?

Dr Ralph Stanley was a legendary bluegrass singer and musician who had an immense influence on the genre. His most notable performance is one that has stood out among fans of his work for years, becoming an iconic moment in musical history.

The performance took place at the 2001 Grammy Awards ceremony, where Dr Ralph Stanley won his first ever Grammy award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for his song “O Death”. This performance marked the start of a new era for country music, as it introduced traditional bluegrass to a larger audience than ever before. During this emotionally charged performance, Dr Stanley sang with passion and conviction and delivered a captivating rendition of the classic folk song that moved many people to tears.

This powerful performance also served to introduce some of Dr Stanley’s lesser-known songs to wider audiences, thus allowing them to be appreciated by more listeners worldwide. The impact of this memorable event can still be felt today, with several cover versions being made since then and inspiring countless artists throughout various genres.

Through this historic moment at the Grammys, Dr Ralph Stanley solidified himself as one of the greats of bluegrass music and proved why he deserved his award – a fitting tribute to someone whose career spanned decades. He remains an inspiration to musicians all over the world who are looking to create something unique and beautiful within their own style of music.

How Has Dr Ralph Stanley’s Music Impacted The World?

Dr Ralph Stanley’s music has had a profound impact on the world. His unique style of traditional mountain music and bluegrass infused with his distinct vocal styling has captured listeners for generations, transcending age, race and culture.

Stanley’s influence can be heard in modern-day folk and country artists as well as other genres outside of Americana. He was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2000, demonstrating just how far his talent has traveled over the years. His most notable performance was at The Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia where he showcased many classic songs from his career such as “Man Of Constant Sorrow”.

Aside from impacting popular music styles around the world, Dr Ralph Stanley is also celebrated for preserving traditional Appalachian musical traditions that were previously overlooked by mainstream audiences. By sharing stories about life in rural areas through song, he helped to bring attention to this often neglected part of America’s cultural landscape.

Throughout his long career, Dr Ralph Stanley remained true to himself and his roots while continuously pushing boundaries within the genre of mountain music. His unwavering commitment to authenticity earned him respect from both veteran musicians and newcomers alike who all admired him for staying true to his craft despite changing tastes in music across time.

Conclusion

I have learned a lot about Dr Ralph Stanley’s music. His favorite song to perform is “Oh Death,” which was inspired by his own experience with death and mortality. He has influenced many genres of music, including bluegrass, folk, country, and gospel. One of his most notable performances was at the Grand Ole Opry in 1968 where he performed “Man of Constant Sorrow” for a standing ovation crowd.

His impact on the world has been profound. Not only has he left behind an incredible body of work that will last generations, but he also created opportunities for others who shared similar stories or experiences through his music. It showed how powerful storytelling can be when put into musical form and how it can bring people together from all walks of life.

Dr Ralph Stanley truly changed the landscape of American roots music forever and I’m so grateful to have heard his story and his legacy. His influence will live on for years to come and I hope that more people find out about him because there are still so many wonderful things we can learn from him!