I recently was sent a clipping from the Charlottesville, VA newspaper with the story of Dr. Stanley being named as a recipient of the Virginia Press Association's Virginian of the Year Award. Just another deserving honor bestowed on this great man. Way to go, Dr. Stanley!
By the Associated Press Published March 19, 2004 ROANOKE, Va. -- Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley was named Virginian of the Year Friday by the Virginia Press Association. Stanley, 77, who lives in Dickenson County, has entertained generations of fans with his sorrowful, unadorned tenor and what he calls "old time mountain music." "I am very proud of being a Virginian and representing my home state around the world," Stanley said. "I reckon I'll just keep on making music, singing and playing until the good Lord tells me to stop." The award was presented at the annual Associated Press Dinner/Virginian of the Year Banquet at the Hotel Roanoke. During his 58-year career, Stanley recorded more than 100 albums and traveled to both Japan and Europe. He still tours with the Clinch Mountain Boys, a band that once featured his brother, Carter, and now includes his son, Ralph Stanley II. Stanley's popularity reached its peak in the twilight of his life. He won three Grammy Awards in 2001 and 2002 as mainstream audiences started taking interest in his music--an unexpected perk, Stanley has said, from the 2001 Coen brothers' movie "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" He is currently helping officials in his hometown of Clintwood design a museum to traditional mountain music that will be named after him. The museum, which is expected to open in late summer or fall, will include old banjos and suits donated by Stanley and members of his band. There also will be a special room dedicated to Carter Stanley, who died in 1966. Bluegrass Bulletin Board brought to you by the fan club of Dr Ralph Stanley & His Clinch Mountain Boys subscribe or unsubscribe at http://drralphstanley.com/
